Hello everyone,

I've been reading this forum obsessively for the last day and decided to introduce myself. I am so inspired by everyone here. You guys are amazing.

I'm 27 and a graduate student. I have candidiasis, which means that weight loss can't be as simple as counting calories for me. I have to stick to a strict diet that includes no sugar and no processed foods- thank goodness I enjoy cooking. Really, sticking to the diet is for my health more than my weight. But weight loss is a big benefit as I realize my self-esteem is completely shot these days and my every waking minute is consumed with thoughts of how fat I am. I'm beginning my professional job search soon and all I think is "they won't want to hire someone so fat".

My goal is ultimately to lose 107lbs. But I realize that is a long way off and I have a tough road ahead.

Soooo, hello everyone. Thanks for being such an inspiration!

~Onyx