Annie E.
I haven't always been obese. For about the first 2/3 of my life I was within 10 pounds of normal. Eventually I was hired at a job that created terrible stress for me that I couldn't cope with. I found myself gaining 20, 30, 40, then 100 pounds in a little over a year. I was eating more, especially carbs and sweets. But part of the weight gain, I have since learned, came from stress putting my body into "starvation mode," which meant everything I ate was stored in my abdomen. That's not to blame anyone or anything for my weight gain, but it does put it in perspective.
After all that, I entered what became an abusive marriage. Again, I gained another 20 pounds. I ate to hide the emotional pain. I remember literally stuffing large forkfuls of food into my mouth without chewing just so I wouldn't start crying, which would prompt comments of "Crybaby" and the like from the husband. After 10 years I left that relationship and began a new life.
Life is far better for me today than it was nearly 20 years ago when the weight gain began. I am in a wonderful relationship with someone who had gastric bypass 5 years ago. He is supportive of my goals, not only in weight loss, but in finishing school, and improving myself in other areas of my life. I am grateful to have him in my life.
After losing and regaining the same 20-30 pounds for a couple years, I have decided to dip my toe in the water to investigate weight loss surgery for myself. One thing I appreciate about my significant other is that he never tried to push me into WLS over other methods. After attending a seminar at Cleveland Clinic, I am taking the dive and hope to have my surgery in the next few months.
In addition to my weight loss aspirations, some of my interests in the world include massage (for which I'm attending school) for both humans and animals. I love animals and have met very few who didn't like me. I am the proud pet parent of Ishca and Tala, two senior dogs who adopted me from Berea Rescue. I am an amateur history buff. I enjoy reading, hiking, camping, fishing. When I lose weight, I hope to participate in marathons and biathlons. I want to learn to ski. I want to do all those physical activities I cannot do now. Thanks to a friend I met at work, I am slowly becoming more involved in SCA and hope after graduating from school to learn to make my own garb and medieval cooking.
Thank you for reading and blessings upon you and yours.