It seems like I have had a lifetime struggle with weight. I have lost and found the same 30-50 pounds several times in my life; I even became a lifetime member of Weight Watchers in 1999. I have never really been able to maintain my weight, always losing or gaining, and I have never committed to any regular exercise program that lasted longer than a few weeks.
My real struggle came after the birth of my son in 2002. I was overweight when I got pregnant and then gained over 50 lbs during those bliss filled 40 weeks, after which I suffered severe post partum depression and sometimes crippling anxiety. I have been in treatment for the depression and anxiety demons ever since, while my weight has gone up and down over the years.
On January 12, 2010, we started a 10-week Biggest Loser challenge at work. I contemplated signing up before actually doing it. Joining a challenge like that when you ACTUALLY need to lose weight was very intimidating for me. Was I ready to put my problem out there for everyone? I almost said no, but at the last minute I made the decision to join. It was a $15 entry fee. I didn't win the challenge and ended up coming in 4th place. But it still feels like the best $15 I ever spent!
As of 10/26/2010 I have lost just over 75 lbs. I am following the Weight Watchers plan, using all the online tools available. I completed the awesome Couch to 5K program in April, and I am now running 4 times a week (total about 15 miles). I have so far participated in 4 races including two 5Ks, one 4 mile, and one 8K. I ran a 10K on 10/10/10. I believe that regular exercise is the only thing that will help me maintain my weight and keep the inner demons at bay.
This is my journey to lose
