What a wonderful story and congrats not only on your weight loss but also on finding yourself and learning to like you! I to battle this EVERYDAY! I can sympathize with the depression too becuase I have been battling what no one understands for years due to two very horrible relationships. You are truly an inspiration!! Thanks.

It's amazing how many of us battle some form of depression, isn't it Steph? Realizing that it was part of my problem was the first step but you never stop saying to yourself. Oopse, that wasn't a very nice thing to say about myself but it truly has become a rare occurrence that I have to do that.

i realy enjoyed you story is made me more determined to get this of that i have been carrying around with me, me back kills me and my knees hopefully they will get better when i lose all this, you done well and hope i can do the same dont fall by the wayside after all you hard work

Good for you! You look great!

Wow great story! I am so impressed at the mental work you have done to lose the weight!

Swivlehips LCDancer and muffles thanks so much for reading my rather long story. I really appreciate the comments.

Swivelhips one of the best things about the weight loss is that my back and knees feel just wonderful. The knees got better after I had lost about 30 pounds, the back took much longer, I believe my problems steamed from my breast size unfortunately, those where the last to go. I didn’t see a marked improvement until I was about 20 pounds from goal. I had gone from a triple D to a D I think. My back never gives me problems now and I only feel a slight twinge in my knees when I run or go to heavy on the leg press. Never when I’m just walking.

Gabrielle

Wonderful success story, Gabrielle. Your story made me realize something: very few, if any, of the success stories here are about willpower, dieting, and white-knuckling through Oreo-deprivation. It's really about facing your issues and learning to treat yourself properly. The food, cooking and exercise habits almost take care of themselves.

Much continued health and success!

Thank you for a beautiful, eloquently written account, that not only explains the physical aspect of being over your ideal weight. When you share someone elses personal struggles, well, I’m new to all this but your piece fuels my own fire. Go girl and thank you again

Gabrielle,
What a story. Thank you for being so inspiring. Congratulations!

Dear Gab.. I read this story a couple of times a week because I find it sooo inspirational and helpful to me.. but I can't believe I haven't commented on it!!! Your story is so very touching and brave.. what you've accomplished for yourself is everyone's dream in life.. I am so proud to know you girl!!! Thanks.. for just being you!!!!

Cathy

Great story Gab, that's what dedication is about.

Girl - you are so awesome. I read your story and I felt like someone was stepping on my toes. It really hit home. I am going to give this positive talk thing a try.
Thank you for sharing. I am sure you have touched a lot of readers that have not mentioned it--even so--you can know that your story definitely touched me and made a lasting impact.
Julie

Hey Folks thanks so much for reading my little story

Gabrielle.. I loved reading your story.. Your a talented - beautiful - intelligent woman with a lot to be proud of. Your journey through weightloss was actual a journey through self-appreciation. I commend you for your honesty, determination and hard-work.

Fanstastic work-especially the part where you gained your self esteem back. Thats the most important part. You always were worthy, you just didnt think so.

And I would sell my grandmother for size 8 jeans..... someday soon!