Hi everyone! I’m new here and looking for some extra support in my weight loss journey. Here’s my story.

I was born in raised in NH (USA). I just turned 33 years old last week. My weight has always been an issue. At my peak weight, back in 2010, I weighed in at a whopping 250lb which is clearly a lot for anyone let alone a girl of only 5’ tall!


Last year I started to make changes to lose weight. The biggest change was dumping soda, my major issue. I also began exercising by walking the neighborhood daily. I got down to 235lb and then summer hit and I stopped walking. I also started drinking soda again so my weight came back, although I didn’t reach 250lb.

Fast forward to early this year, my body began aching. Everywhere! I was having a really hard time functioning because I was in so much pain. My life at that point consisted of going to work, coming home, and going to bed. Repeat the next day. I finally got into see my Dr and was diagnosed as having a vitamin D deficiency, was given supplements, and sent on my way. When then didn’t work I had further testing done and was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis.

Since getting on proper medication I essentially got my life back and was able to function like a normal person. I was able to start exercising once again. As a result I currently weigh 198.8lb (as of this morning – I weigh in daily). In the grand scheme of things that may not sound like a lot of weight lost, BUT I have lost a lot of inches which to me says more about my progress than the number on the scale. I was in a size 26 pair of jeans and am currently fitting comfortable into a size 16. I still have a long way to go, but I’m making progress!

My main source of exercise comes from good old fashioned Taebo. I picked up a DVD at WalMart a while back and haven’t looked back. Since then I’ve found multiple workouts either on Youtube or DVD to mix things up. It’s really an amazing thing to see such your body transforming. I’m proud of how far I’ve come, but I still have a lot of work ahead of me.

So, with all that babbling done. I’m looking forward to being here and to getting to know all of you.

Hey MandyMH,

I'm new too and around your same height. I'm sorry about your RA, but I'm glad you've got the medication to work it out.

I love Tae Bo. My mother-in-law for some DVDs for $1 each and they are SO great(The Bootcamp ones). I got my butt kicked but even after first workout I could feel the difference.

Welcome and I hope you keep seeing that transformation in yourself.

Welcome Mandy,

I am new here too. Joined this community for healh and fitness related issues. Actually after pregnancy I got extra skin on different parts of my body. Trying hard to make myself fit and in shape.

Hi Mandy, like waterfiend I'm close to your height, and I know how weight loss can seem more daunting at a short height. Congratulations on your weight loss so far, though. It's really inspiring.

Welcome to the forums. I'm sure you'll find lots of support and motivation here

Hi Mandy! Congrats on losing so much weight, getting your life back on track, and exercising for your health! Fantastic! I too have rheumatoid arthritis and a vitamin D deficiency, so I know exactly what you are describing. I'm glad you have it under control now. Glad to have you here! Good luck on the rest of your journey!