Dwaynesimmons
I am a 39 year old male with obesity issues stimming from as far back as I can remember.Throughout childhood I was overweight and at ages as early as 10 years old my Parents shopped for me in the mens clothing departments as I had out grown the sizes labled as "Husky". I can remember always being active as a child: skating, bikeriding, running, playing softball, kickball, basketball, swimming, the whole nine but I was always still overweight. I was so active to the point that my weight never effected my self esteem as a child (Thank God) because I was pretty good in sports and pretty much anything else I put my mind to. I grew up in the home with an older brother and an older sister and both parents, none of whom had weight issues. My mom was a real nurturing mom and would encourage any and all of my interests. I took a strong liking to music and learned that I had been blessed with a voice for singing and soon after became aware of the fact that I was a whiz with a sketch book, pencil, and a sewing machine. Gifted to the point that I can look at a picture of clothing in a magazine and duplicate it almost exactly. That being said I never had a problem with wanting certain styles of clothing in my size and could not have them. Throughout high school I was always voted best-dressed male, class favorite, and would always win the school talent shows in which I'd sing. That was a real confidence boost for me even though I was overweight. It has just been within the last 4 years of my life where I've had to come to terms with the fact that my weight is a problem for me now due to the fact that I suffer from many illnesses that my weight solely contributes to. I am a type 2 diabetic, I have high blood pressure and cholesterol, I have severe acid reflux, I suffer from gout, and am now showing signs of having sleep apnea. For all of these ailments, I am taking medication and have come to a place in my life where I refuse to let sickness and medication determine my life anymore. I want to turn 40 and be active and as much med-free as I can be.
