[CatFeathers]

CatFeathers here: This seems like a great place for both knowledge and support. I started the Ideal Protein diet yesterday.

I have several relatives with type II diabetes. One has lost all toes and is trying to avoid losing a foot. I have had MS (multiple sclerosis) for years and I don't really want to have diabetes on top of it.

I decided I needed help with weight loss because I sure wasn't doing it on my own. My issue is emotional eating (when feeling stressed or lonely) or forgetting to eat - and drink. I am not naturally a thirsty person, so I have to work at it. Upon hearing of a friend's great success with the IP diet, I took the leap. I signed up for the IP program while researching that, found this site.

I'm happy to be here and looking forward to feeling and looking better!

[Rarr777]

Welcome! I am not new to this site, but pretty new to posting. I just introduced myself as well. I also have MS (diagnosed in 2007). ALSO, type II diabetes runs in my family. I do not have it. So you see why I made it a point to post to you. I do Weight Watchers, and have for the first half of my weight loss. I will probably continue with WW. I also jog and such for exercise. Good luck on your weight-loss journey! Feel free to add me as a buddy.

[patchworkpenguin]

CatFeathers, Glad to have you join us. My advice is to look for a Support group, Chat, or Challange to join, such as the IP section or "Dieting with Obstacles" ; small groups make it easier to get connected. Just find one that inspires or motivates you and just post to join.

[CatFeathers]

Rarr777: Thanks for your greeting and I'm glad to make you a buddy! I am learning my way around the site.

45 lbs lost! Good job! I am on just my 2nd day of Ideal Protein plan.

I know I have had MS since I was at least 19, but I wasn't diagnosed until MRI technology was available when I had an attack at age 24 that docs could not blame on stress or something like, "breathing incorrectly." That was a good one, huh?

I have tried Avonex, Betaseron and Copaxone, which I feel has done well for me and doesn't cause me to have the side effects I went through on the first two. My sister has MS too, and has also been living with it for over 20 years. We are certainly not ballerinas, but both of us are still walking, driving, cooking (well, her, not so much because her right hand is numb and she tends to cut herself) -- and avoiding dusting. :-)

I hope MS isn't being too nasty for you. It sure can be a drag... Take care!

[CatFeathers]

Patchworkpenguin: Thanks for the greeting. Great idea to look for a support group. I am working my way through the site to learn how to live here. Thanks!

[Rarr777]

I have been very lucky, as my MS has been kind to me (mostly). I think positive pertaining to the future. You sound like me, you don't let it stop you from living life. Copaxone isn't one you had side effects with? Good deal. I've done Beta-Seron and now Rebif, and have had side effects with both. Good luck losing hon!!

[CatFeathers]

Originally Posted by Rarr777

I have been very lucky, as my MS has been kind to me (mostly). I think positive pertaining to the future. You sound like me, you don't let it stop you from living life. Copaxone isn't one you had side effects with? Good deal. I've done Beta-Seron and now Rebif, and have had side effects with both. Good luck losing hon!!

Yep - For almost every patient MS is not a death sentence. It is mostly a pain in the butt - more at some times than others.

My skin needed a few months to adapt to Copaxone, but the needle is tiny and I experience ZERO side effects. What I like best about Copaxone is that when I wake up in the morning, I don't wake up thinking about MS. That is huge for me and a big difference from what I experienced on Avonex and then Betaseron. Everyone has to find what works for them. For me, I feel fortunate to be able to take Copaxone.

So far so good on IP. Need to get to the store for more veggies! I go in for my 2nd appointment on the 8th. I'm excited and determined!