Dear Sharon....Thank you so much for your well wishes. I read your comments. You talked about edema and then later wondered by you had lost only 8+ pounds. I'll bet the water build up was the problem. My prayer for you is that God will Bless you with a speedy recovery to your goal weight, and a wonderful new life. Maybe some of your illnesses will go away after you reach goal. Don't give up. Even if the journey is slow, the experience is worth it. Keep you chin up and keep trying. Keep in touch. With love and best wishes, Marilyn