Looking at photos of my ancestors, I actually thought I was doomed to obesity forever. If there is a "fat" gene, my family has it. In addition, I did eat tons of junk food to narcotize my feelings. I started getting really scared when even eating a cookie made me NEED to go lay down for a nap. When one is eating and sleeping the day away, something is REALLY wrong! I was not tested for diabetes but since my dad suffered from late-onset diabetes, I figured I was experiencing warning signs. So, I chose to start LC (second time, first was in 2003) and will be remaining on LC for the rest of my life. I feel much better. As for other people's criticisms, I do my damnedest to not to listen. I am excruciatingly sensitive (chronic shyness covered by brashness at times). If I wasn't so shy, I would wear "goth"- and/or "hippie"-style clothing because I adore them and not care what people think. Of course, neither style befits a "fat" person.