I turned 50 last May and I decided it’s time to get serious about my weight loss. I was in great shape and ate whatever I wanted until I had a thyroidectomy and my magic powers disappeared. Suddenly, everything I ate had a consequence. That was 20 years ago. Since then I have been diagnosed with PCOS and have entered into a stage of life where losing weight becomes more difficult. My love of pasta and all things carb has not helped.

I got to a point where I did not like to see myself. I didn’t want to be in picture or any video. I panicked when I got a message saying someone tagged me in a Facebook photo. The way I felt about my weight started to have a huge effect on my happiness.

I began my journey on Jan 11th at 216 pounds. I am now 199 as of my last weigh in. I feel like I’m really ready to get back to a place where I am comfortable in my body.

I am a special education teacher, wife, mom and step mom. I am used to doing a lot for others and putting my wants and needs on the back burner but this something I am doing for me. My husband and daughter (20 year old twins) are very supportive and encouraging which is a huge motivator for me.