vjbreon35
My story is, I'm sure, typical. Started gaining weight in 3rd grade. I had this overwhelming sense back then that I would never be one of the "skinny ones", the "beautiful ones". To be that young and that sure is an unsettling thing.
It seemed my lot in life, even at an early age, was to have a boy interested in me. Being me, it wasn't easy. I stayed relatively heavy until my sophomore year in high school, then slimmed some and developed well. Still, the pursuit of boyfriends was relentless. I had beautiful friends. The guys went for them.
By college, I looked and felt great. Being active in sports was a great help. By 21, I was most of the way through my teaching degree and was married to a man I had known since the ripe "old" age of 14. It is my belief, at the time, that I "settled". I was floundering in school and in my social/financial life. It seemd a logical option -- get married, THEN "fix" my life.
Fast forward 14 years -- I'm at my heaviest at 242 pounds, but with 2 beautiful, awesome kids to show for the weight gain. Physically I am miserable, with severe diabetes, high cholesterol and heart disease risk. My marriage is convenient at best, but we're sticking it out for the kids. Life is definitely NOT what I thought it would be.
My faith is strong though. I KNOW God has a plan for me and that He wants the best for me. Through this weight loss journey, every door that could be opened to allow safe passage into each phase WAS opened. I had a clear answer -- do it -- live it.
Here I am, still 35, post-op patient of 2 weeks, scared to death about the life-long committment, knowing that I am teetering on the edge of a cavernous change, and very (cautiously) excited. From the time I began this journey over 6 months ago, I have "lost" almost 35 pounds and hope to never find it again. With a long way to go, I must keep my head up, faith strong and thank God daily for the awesome support I have in my family, friends and children.
This story is far from over. It is simply..."to be continued". ;) Val
11/16/07
