Hi Everyone! My name is Lauren, I am 29 years old. I have been overweight for what seems like forever, basically since I was about 10 years old. I had success loosing 50lbs about 4 years ago, but then was in a near fatal horseback riding accident that caused me to be in bed for 3 months. I put about 20 lbs back on after that accident, then another 15 lbs last year after I broke my ankle. (I am an accident waiting to happen ).

I have recently tried to get back on the wagon and get real serious about losing weight, but my father took seriously ill about 3 weeks ago and things dont look good. I now fall into the trap of grabbing whats easy on my way to the hospital, and thats NOT helping.

Right now everything seems to be in such a whirlwind...I havent had much time to focus on myself and I am really struggling.

I am lucky to have 2 horses and am a very active rider, which is good for my mental health and reducing my butt size ...

Its nice to meet you all!

Hi Lauren. Nice to meet you. Sorry to hear about your Father, I have been in a similar situation and it is very hard to stick to a plan when a parent is ill. My biggest advice to you would be to do what you have just told us you have the power to do. Get back in the saddle again. Many people would NEVER look at a horse again if they were nearly killed while riding one, but you chose to get back on. If you can get back on your horse, you can get back on a weight loss plan. Just remember though, in your past you have gained weight when you were unable to exercise, so please make sure that you concentrate a lot on your food intake. There will always be times when you won't be able to exercise daily, and if you are counting on excercise alone to keep the weight off, then the same thing will happen next time you are injured, (Lord forbid)

Best wishes.

Welcome to 3FC and good luck with your goals.

Hugs
Michelle

Hi Lauren!
First of all, my prayers go out for you, your father and family - I know what you're going through.
Sounds like we need to roll you up in bubble wrap to keep you in one piece!!!! I know you'll be successful with your quest for a healthier you - good luck with your goals - we're all here to cheer you on!

Glad to have you join us! There are lots & lots of different groups and forums - I'm sure you'll find some that will keep you motivated, inspired and entertained! You'll also find info and first hand advice on different plans to help choose the right one for you and get through the ups and downs.

There are bunches of people here with more to lose and some with less - the bottom line is that we all have to do it a day at a time. The good thing is that we'll have lots of company along the way.

I've only been here a few months myself, having NEVER been part of an online forum. What has been so eye-opening is how much it has helped me. Whenever I feel overwhelmed or defeated, I just log on and read some of the success stories, complete with their before & after photos - or read about others still dealing day to day with their challenges - and before I know it, the time has flown by and so have all the thoughts of cheating or giving up.

So welcome - you've found the right place - join in by inspiring us and being inspired!

Thank you for the welcomes!

Lori Bell...It took me a long time to get over my fear of getting back on the horse. Afer my accident I was diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and had a fear of "riding" horses...however they are my passion and I needed to get through it. I had to let go of the nasty nag that threw me, and got myself a nice older Sane minded horse. He has brought me back to life!

Leeway...thank you for your thoughts and prayers. and yes, bubble wrap would probably be a good idea :-) Thank you for your kind words, and I am excited about the support I will have here!