WELCOME!!!

We are a group of individuals who weigh or have weighed 300+, or near there. This group was formed to provide a place for others like us to find support, inspiration, and hope. We are aware of the distinct problems that come with weighing over 300 lbs.

We want to invite everyone (roosters as well as chicks!) to join us in our journey. We share laughter and tears, heartaches and fears ... joys and celebrations. We also share what works for us and what doesn't.

We know the thread can move very quickly, and that people often make "personal" remarks and keep a number of conversations going. Please feel free to contribute even if you can't make personal comments all the time.

Finally, we also have several extra threads going on simutaneously such as Monthly Challenges, Weekly Weigh-ins, Recipes, Bios, Photos, Exercise, Info for Getting Started and more. Many of these threads are stickied at the top of the page. Please feel free to check them all out.

We have found this thread to be more than just a support group... we have found it to become a home. We invite you to join us.

Good Morning all, Happy Monday.

Thanks for asking about my friend.She is doing well. She stayed at my house Thursday through Saturday. She says it helped her a lot. I pray that it did.

Sharon: Thank you so much for your kind words. You are such a sweetheart. Hugs.

Rat: She didn't sip very slowly at all and her tummy hurt her. I tried to warn her but I guess some things you have to learn the hard way. I waited on her hand and foot and made a chart for her to use for her meds, protein, water and walking. I wanted to make sure that she doesn't fail and that she does everything right. I have to tell you that I am super surprised at how much protein she is able to get in each day. Close to 100 G's! I am lucky now if I get that much in a day. She is really making her shakes count. lol.

Dinkachu: Welcome. I wanted to answer your questions and hopefully give you hope. I was 510 pounds as you can tell my my tracker. I worked so hard at WW for 6 months without cheating to try to lose weight and get healthy. I only lost 16 pounds in that time and it was so upsetting. I didn't give up though. I went to my DR. and she told me it was time to look into weight loss surgery. Long story short, I went to the seminar and decided it was for me. I then found out that I was too overweight for weight loss surgery to be safe. I had to go on a liquid diet (my choice due to heart issues and my brother passing away, I can tell you more later if you want) I stayed on the liquid diet until my BMI was 60 which is a safe number for weight loss surgery.I had the RNY Gastric Bypass Surgery and worked out every single day for 1 - 2 hours a day. It was hard work but.... it can be done. I know it can be done without surgery too. I was on the liquid diet for almost 5 months and started out where I couldn't move my body much at all. Little by little I started to move and soon enough I was doing more and more.

You can do it! Hang in there and any support and encouragement we can give you here, well, we are here for you!

I will catch up with everyone else later on.

Hugs and blessings,
Annie

Lindy, In the beginning, I was on 3 different heart and high blood pressure medicines. The Cardiologist had basically sent me home to die. I was too big to even do an angio on. He actually told me that my character was too flawed for him to bother with me. The only exercise I could do was in bed. I did scissors and rolled over to do flutter kicks. Sometimes all I could do was 5 seconds at a time.

Eventually I began to do sit ups in bed and later was able to start walking a fourth of a block at a time and back. I worked up to being able to walk a couple of miles and two hours of water aerobics 3 times a week. My new cardiologist here in Canada was able to take me off all the heart medicine 3 years ago. I only take a water pill and one high blood pressure tablet a day now. Two years ago I had an angio gram when I ended up in the hospital with food poisoning. The cardiologist said that he had never seen anyone on his table with such a strong ejection rate. That's the force your heart generates to pump blood. Normal is 55-70% and mine was 77%. He wanted to know what kind of exercise I was doing, and I said water aerobics, and he just shook his head.

We can get healthy. We can survive this. We just have to get over the idea of success and failure. You only fail if you quit. As long as you get back up, dust yourself off, and keep trying, you haven't failed. Wallowing in self recrimination about letting ourselves get like this in the first place is a recipe for disaster. Just take baby steps. It takes 6 weeks to 6 months to replace a bad habit, or add a new good habit. One thing at a time will get you there much faster in the long run.

You guys are seriously amazing. Every time I hear someone's story about the steps they took to get where they are I am just amazed and inspired, and you two have just increased that feeling of pride and motivation I'm filled with. This is why I love this board SO much.

In my news, stuff is progressing quickly on the teacher's college front... I submitted my placement requests today, and confirmed my place to live for the fall... now all that has to happen is to send the deposit to the landlady, which I can't do until she's back from holidays. Gave my boss the official news that I'll be leaving at the end of July I will miss Starbucks terribly. I had an amazing workout today - buying a skipping rope was the best decision I've made since buying my stationary bike! It gets me up to my target heart rate way faster, it's FUN, and I know I'm getting more from my workouts as a result. And it was only $3 at Wal-Mart! Oh, and did I mention it's purple? Love it. Life is good today, ladies (and gents, if they're reading).

Catherine and Annie... you two are amazing! I almost feel as though I have had it easy when I read some of your stories. I have never had a problem with exercising (which is why I have always said I didn't need surgery even at 325 lbs) I have always felt that if I can exercise and move around, then I have no excuse. So at the beginning of the year I quit giving myself excuses for being as fat as I was (still am but getting smaller everyday). Cut the crap out of my diet, started watching my calorie intake, and used the nice elliptical I had bought 2 years ago. I was able to do 30 minutes on the elliptical from day one (slower then I do now, but I could do it). And the food change never killed me... I cheeted more at first, I rarely have the desire to now. and 46 lbs have fallen off in 4 months. I tried WW several years ago and similar results to Annie's... I quickly figured out that it wasn't right for me. I don't really even count calories that much anymore. I just eat like I know I should. I measure out a serving size of something and eat as many veggies as I can stomach. I only buy lean meats for around the house and keep a supply of smart ones lunches so that I don't have to try and be creative during the day or guess what is in something from the cafeteria at work. Seems like a lot of changes, but really it has been easy. There are days I still get frustrated that it isn't coming off faster, but the fact is I am losing more then 10 lbs a month better then 2 a week average. I can't complain.

I am so inspired by those of you who have had a much harder road then I do. I have 180 to lose and that seem daunting, but looking and realizing you have 300+ to lose... I can't imagine. You all have my respect for committing yourself to this change. You give me even more reason so stay committed myself.

Hello Ladies, Annie as always you Inspire me. I keep chugging a long as well . I wish I could get up to ten lbs a month, but I am happy with my one lb a week. I refuse to give up and I refuse to get frustrated. It is a wonderful day and I am still on track with my eating. I still have to work on the wii but I may skip today as my hip is bothering me I think I pulled a muscle.

Greetings Mah Peeps!

Looks like everything in the world is blooming or giving off pollen. I had full body itchies yesterday after my bike ride (and shower.. yes, used soap lol). I took my anti-hive meds which wipe me out, so no work today. I bought some zyrtec to help with the allergies.

Wow Annie, I should have come to your house after my surgery! hehe. Naw, I didn't need to be waited on hand and foot, at the time, I needed to NOT to be snowbound with my parents for 2 weeks LOL! Your friend is getting in 100g of protein already?!?! w00t for her! I've been pushing my intake up to 120-140g of protein this week and feel much better. Protein shakes are pushing it up over the edge as well as the KFC double down (53g of protein, 11 g carb!). It's actually 2 meals for me.

It's miserable hot here today (and was yesterday). Between the heat and reading about swimsuits on the other thread, I wanna go swimming!

Hugs to all!
Ratkity

Lindy, I've been thinking of your list. I don't know what a good name would be. You could keep it simple and just call it "The List".

Here are some ideas:

Do some of Catherine's scissor and flutter kicks when no one is looking (and don't tell anyone you are doing them).

Open the window and get some fresh air and watch the birdies.

Drink 64oz of fluid a day (aim for 100oz)

Having dinner with family 1x per week in first week, 2x a week 2nd week, etc. In 2 months, you will be eating supper with them all week long.

Work up to going outside and sitting in the sun - since I don't know where you live or if you have a backyard patio (you could live in an apt for all I know). If you don't have an easy access to outside, put that in long term goals.

Make one good food choice a day and write it down, no matter how little. Right beside that, write a positive thought about you next to it.

Hugs!
Ratkity

Hey ladies, quick post. I'm sick as a dog with a cold, but I don't think it will last too long. Been sick for two days and today was the worst so far, but I am thinking I'll recover pretty quickly. LOL So I'm hormonal, have a cold, and starting a new pack of BC pills. LOL...goodness. Hey, but you gotta keep a sense of humor right?!

So, I'm in VERY good spirits and as soon as I'm able to, I'm going to get to the store and get some juice in me. *HUGS* Thank you so much for the support. I am always thinking of all of you and sending you all hugs and good vibes. You all are right, I can do this and I can survive these tough times. I guess I should think about how there are other people who are going through things that are far worse than me. Perhaps that can put some things in perspective for me. I mean I can change anything, I can continue to change my life, myself, and even though yeah it sucks right now and it can be hard it isn't as hard as it used to be when I was a kid.

*HUGS* Going to go to bed...sleeping in my cool living room tonight. Hehe...the cat and me are gonna have a blast...well by blast I mean her snuggling up next to my inflatable bed and me snoring like crazy haha.

Catherine: I just love you. When I first came to 3fc back in 2005 and weighed 510 pounds I remember seeing your weight loss tracker and hoping that some day I could do what you did. You inspire me always.

Neon: Sounds like plans are coming together! Yeah you. Hugs and hang in there.

Amy: That is wonderful that you are able to eat what your body needs. I can do that much more often now than before. I am so blessed that God opened the door for me to be able to change my body. All of the things falling into place. I am proud of you for changing your thinking about health and food.

Tracy: Hugs doll. So sorry that you pulled a muscle. I woke up with an owie in my neck. I think I slept wrong. lol.

Rat: Any time you need me, I'm here. Come on over and I will wait on you hand and foot too. And your cutie pie doggies! Sounds like you are doing great on your protein too. Keep on going strong girl.

Jacquie: I'm right there with you on that cold thing. I am refusing to let it slow me down though. I have been getting them so much since I started all this blood thinner crap. My immunity is wayyyyy down now. I hope you feel better very soon.

Sharon: Hugs and a big ole hello!

I went out and walked 2 miles today. I was going to up it to 3 but.... I have never in my life walked in such a windy situation. It started to rain like crazy so I called it quits at 2 miles. I came home and was the happy homemaker for Joel and baked over 200 cookies. I was able to put quite a few of them into the freezer for later.

Did 1 mile on the elliptical which was 30 minutes for me. Did 100 crunches and I think I am about spent on the exercise for the day. I am super proud of my exercises today but kind of bummed about my eating. I didn't eat anything I shouldn't, problem is I only ate 1 cup of lite Italian wedding soup for 110 Cal and 9 G of protein and 1/2 a bag of protein snacks for 65 calories and 7 g's of protein. I didn't eat/drink anything else that provides calories and protein. I did manage to drink 80 oz. of water. It is 7:15 p.m. and I need to try to make myself eat a protein shake or something or my body won't release any weight. Bad Annie, Bad.

Okay, tomorrow is a brand new day.

Hugs and Blessings to you all,
Annie

THANKS SO MUCH for the ideas and inspiration and for sharing your journeys.

Annie - I am praying for your friends quick recovery - she is blessed to have a friend to take care of her. Also, knowing someone else was deemed 'too fat' for weight loss surgery and then had it later was interesting;I thought that door was closed.

Catherine - your willingness to share your story sent hope to me with every word. One doctor said there was no reason to treat my lupus as the weight was going to kill me anyway. But we're not going to take that - the Great Physician has the final word. I tried the kicks in bed, but am having to work on rolling over as I can't do that yet.

Ratkitty - I didn't name my 'Not a bucket list cause I've decided not to die list" but I do like your ideas. I have drawn a line down the center of each page and I've put achievable goals on one side and future goals on the other. Sitting up, getting out of bed and walking behind my walker involves lots of pain and huffing and puffing, but I feel so empowered to walk anywhere. The walker has a seat so I can stop. I was shocked to find my family uncomfortable with my moving about. They are worried I will fall or hurt myself. They think I am safer in the bed. But I feel like I NEED to do this. It is scary for me too. But I got a 50' oxygen hose from my pulmonologist and permission to turn my O2 up to 4 when I walk around. I promised not to get out of bed when I am home alone, but it felt so good to be up even if it was only for a few steps. We live in Florida and there is a pool in my backyard but it has been 7 years since I've been in it. Right now it feels like it is 1,000 miles away. That would be a BIG goal. Getting to the bathroom when someone is home instead of the bed side potty chair - that's on my achieveable list.

I didn't mean to babble on so about myself - I do read each of your post and pray for each of the needs you share - jobs, courage, continued success, health.

Blessings,
Lindy

Lindy I'm SO PROUD OF YOU!!!! You keep posting on here & doing what you can.xxxxxxx
Annie I hope your friend bought you some flowers or at least gave you a big hug for caring for her.xxxxxx
Ratkitty my Dad seems to be ok, I ring my Mum most days to check on him, he was struggling coz of a cough but it seems to be getting better. His Warfarin dosage is sorted out now & we are hoping to visit at the end of this month (another 'bank holiday' everywhere closes, except big stores) for a couple of days. You put me to shame keeping so busy!!! BTW how do you 'can' stuff, do you buy a special 'thingy' to press a lid on or what? & do you buy new cans or re-use those you've already used? Give eveilkitty a kiss from me! lol!! xxxxxx
Neon good luck with the teaching, what age are you loking at? Please put ages as I don't understand the Canadian & US grades.xxxxxx
Jacquie HUGS you hang in there.xxxxxxx
Welcome back Jen! I'm in the same boat, lose some, gain some back....The weather is getting warmer here's to the rising temps = dropping pounds!! xxxxx
Well I've been struggling coz og hormones & youngest son is being a monster (ADHD) but I'm recommitting YET AGAIN....The sun is shining & I feel hopeful.
Catherine how are you, is hubby ok( I think he had a fall/injury??)xxxxxx
xxxxxxxsharon

Morning my Peeps!

Oh noes Jacquie! I hate colds. This is a good time to do some self-caring and get in all the fluids your body needs. I haven't mentioned your relationship cuz well, I'm a dork when it comes to them. I refuse to give advice on a topic that I have no experience in! LOL. I do know about self-caring though. Keep up those spirits!

Welcome back Jenn!

Annie, your exercise is phenomenal!!!! I can't even do 5 min on the elliptical, and those crunches? wow. I'm sorry you have a cold too. Make sure you are getting in that protein! It'll make your workouts easier and you won't be so tired. I made 92g yesterday.. a little low for what I'm aiming for, but I'm feeling so much better (except for the itchies.. stupid pollen). Again, the exercise, amazing!!!! I still have to monitor my fluid intake or it will drop significantly from 64 oz.

Hrm Lindy, How about "My Life List"? or "The Life List"? Your goals are very attainable and it sounds like you know your limits. Your family is going to push back for every step (literally and metaphorically) that you take. You weren't alone in getting to where you are now, but you are the one that has realized that in order to change, you have to do it without their help. Families are very intertwined in our psychie and how we perceive food. My family shows support, but then does things that are counter-intuitive to healthy eating for me. w00t you have a pool!!?? I would love one right now.. it has to be self-cleaning, free of pollen and sticks and leaves and never evaporate hehe. I don't ask for much, do I?

Sharon, good deal that your dad has the major med stabilized. I rem Annie getting hers all set up. Very stressful. Take time for you, get a cup of tea and relax a little.

Catherine, is Himself still out of town? How have you been coping?

Neon, you are prolly one of the great bartistas at The Bucks that I lub. New doors are opening for you!!!

Hugs to Tracey on your pulled muscle.. ouchie!

Amy, you go girl! You are doing fabbo!

Hugs to all, gotta get to work.
Ratkity

Lindy, I really hope you can make it out to the pool this summer. The water would take so much pressure off of your joints and let you move a bit without so much pain. Keep your spirits up... I think you are doing great in getting started and not giving up!!!!!!

For those who struggle with the elliptical... that is actually my exercise of choice because there is no impact on my joints. For me there is about a 5 minute threshold where I go from I can't do this, to ok... I'm good now. I started out only doing 10 -15 minutes (by sheer willpower) and now (4 months later) I can go 60 minutes and nearly 7 miles on it (with adding in some backwards motion every 5 minutes). It is something I am truely proud of because if I can do that, there is no reason I can't get to my goal.

You ladies are incredeble!

ON a good thing for me, my husband and I are going to see Nora Jones tonight and I get to dress up and all that jazz.... have a night out without the baby (one of my wonderful friends offered to come over and watch him for the night). I might be draggin' at work tomorrow but I will enjoy tonight!