[Worth the Weight]

Hi all,

I have been in the weight loss game for MANY years!! I am now 44-will be 45 in August.

I have lost over 200 lbs.

I tried all the different ways to lose weight-like most of you. I gained and lost and gained and lost.

For me-it came to the point where I was becoming immobile-my knees and hips could do no more for me.

I finally considered weight loss surgery. I did not take this decision lightly. I studied and researched for a very long time. I refused to even consider the surgery until I worked on the emotional issues which brought me to it in the first place.

Even when I did decide to go for it-it took another two years!

I started out at 383. My lowest was about 150-ish and I am 173 today. Although I know some bounce-back weight is to be expected, I am not comfortable with where the weight is today.

There is no "there" on our weight loss journeys -whether it be surgical or non surgical. I would also add there is no "easy way out". In order to have success it's a total package deal. Mind, body, soul. It's a MUST.

Another thing-this journey should NOT be taken alone. I know many of us are/were isolators of the worst kind. I got to the point where I feared leaving the house-because people were cruel and it hurt.

So-now. Here I am. Just over 4 years out and doing "OK". But-OK is not good enough. I need some support and I would also love to lend some support. All I have is my experience to share.

I know what it is like to stand at the starting point looking into the distance and wondering if you are going to make it. I also know what it is like to have to use assistance to walk. And-I ALSO know what it is like to RUN up the stairs with wild abandon-only to burst into tears of joy at the amazing feat!!

I am grateful. I am also human and am at the mercy of the same things as you. Stress, fear, low self esteem, hope and dreams.

The one thing I have with me today-which is the same thing I had with me on the day of my surgery is my "TRY". That is all that is needed. One try turns into another-one foot and the next.

So-I am now going to assemble my treadmill which arrived this week. C'mon. Who am I fooling? I need to MOVE this behind of mine!!

Thanks for the great site and I am really hopeful and looking forward to meeting some new friends!!

Peace,
T

[patchworkpenguin]

Welcome. Congatulations on your remarkable loss. I suggest you look for a Support Group or Challenge to join; a small group of friends to help keep you motivated, find one that inspires you or fits your needs, and just post to join.

[L R K]

Hi and Welcome

Wow, you have lost a lot of weight already! Well Done

And I know you will find plenty of support, motivation and inspiration here to reach your big and final goal!

Best of Luck!

[Worth the Weight]

Thanks all! I really appreciate the welcomes and input! I totally agree-time to join a group for a bit of a kick in the pants! LOL!

[Jenteal]

Great post! Welcome and congrats on your fantastic accomplishment! You look amazing!!!

[DhaniCauldwell]

Welcome and good luck!

Dhani

[Worth the Weight]

Thanks all very much for the kind welcomes!! I am really looking forward to sticking around!

[Onederchic]

Hi and welcome to 3FC.

Congrats on your success and good luck with your goals.

Hugs
Michelle

[serenityh]

Welcome to the forum! Good luck achieving your goals!

[SarahD140]

Welcome!! I really enjoyed this post!! You write really well and made some fabulous points. I can not wait to read more from you! You've joined at a great time, a new month will be starting soon and there are month long challenges to join. I am on the edge of my seat these days, waiting for the August challenges to show up.

[Losing It 2010]

Welcome to 3FC, you will find a lot of support and information here

[Liliann]

Bravo on your progress! Good luck with your continue efforts!!

[Worth the Weight]

Thanks all! I am loving this place. Everyone has been VERY friendly and it honestly makes me feel much better and hopeful!!