Finally Stopped Fooling Myself

Growing up, I was always, without fail, the heaviest kid. I told myself that that was just the way of it - I was who I was and there was nothing I could really do to change my weight and my health. Nothing ever made me see the light, not having to shop in the adult section before I even hit puberty, not being diagnosed with Type II diabetes at 12 (TWELVE!), not the fact that I hated every single picture of myself I ever saw. At 18, I was 289 pounds.

Then, in January of 2010, a friend of mine saw an add about Anytime Fitness' 7-Day Trial. We tried it out and, at the end of the week, I was the only one of the four of us who joined. Since then, I've worked hard and been consistent in working out, both at the gym and at home. With the help of the diet tracker here I've gotten control of my formerly horrible eating habits (no breakfast, way too many calories, not enough basic nutrition).

And everything - everything - has changed. I've lost 120 pounds and 7 sizes. I can buy clothing in any regular store. I can run, I can go up a flight of stairs without being ridiculously out of breath, my posture is better, my balance is much better, and, best of all, I'm no longer insulin-resistant. No more pills for me! It took getting to where I am now to realize how far I had to go. When I look at old pictures, I can't believe what I looked like or how big I was; it was like I couldn't accept just how bad off I was. When people from high school see me, they're all blown away, and some don't even recognize me! It took two years, and I'm still going, but I can honestly say, I'm happy with where I am. My doctor's happy with my weight, I'm happy with my weight, and I love how strong I've become. It feels so empowering to know that I can do this, and that I don't ever have to go back to being uncomfortable, unhealthy, and embarrassed ever again.

Wow... amazing job!!! What a journey

I Was always the heaviest kid too. Look at us now! You are an incredible woman! Keep going! You inspire me!

You are inspiring! Thank you for sharing your story!!

Way to go! Such an inspiring story.

awesome story! you have earned a "badge of pride" and should wear it proudly.

Wow, thank you so much, everyone! I'm really humbled that you've found my story inspiring! I truly appreciate all of your kind words.

You don't even look like the same person! You look so happy and healthy!

You really have transformed!! I know what you mean about not be able to accept how big the problem is. When you wear extra weight, it's easy to turn a blind eye.. I think you're amazing!!

Wow! Keep it up! I love the shaved head too!:)