Cristina S.
Well it all started when I was beggining to hit puberty. I come from a large (and I mean in girth) Hispanic family where celebration and togetherness centers around food. My parents and grandparents grew up poor so I was constantly told not to waste food, and would eat even if I was full. I was always a thin, tall thing as a little girl and very active. Once I started puberty, I started feeling uncomfortable in my body, moved to a place where I didn't have the chance to play with friends and be active and I started feeling depressed. I ate when I was bored and ate when I was miserable. I gained weight so fast that I didn't realize it until I wouldn't fit in my clothes. I also married young at 20 years old because I settled. I didn't think anyone could love me again or want me. He turned out to be emotionally cold, angry and alcoholic. Eventually the depression was treated but no matter how many attempts I made to diet, I would not lose much or would regain. I eat way less and better than before but perhaps my stomach is stretched out so I am eating too much for my 5'2 frame. When I exercise it just exacerbates my knee pain. I'm only 25 and it's like everything hurts. I've had shoulder and back pain ever since I was in middle school because of my large chest and the weight has only increased it. I'm young and have to be in the background while having to see my slimmer sister gets to wear all the nice clothes and have all this energy. I want to be able to get back to my passion of swimming without worrying about my legs and arms. I want to wear tank tops, skirts, buy bras from any store. No more living vicariously through other people. I am not divorced and that chapter of my life is over (thankfully).I want to experience my 20's the way it is meant to be!
