I was overweight and miserable ...

When I joined Weight Watchers in October of 2002 I was just beginning to get healthy after a long (6+ year) chronic illness.  During the course of my illness I gained 95 pounds and once I found a doctor who could finally help, I couldn't WAIT to take off the weight!  At the suggestion of a councilor/friend, I joined Weight Watchers and never looked back.

My stats:  I am 5'9", born October 1967.  Start weight = 239.  Current Weight (July 2005) = 145 (gained a few since my "after" pics due to doctor recommendation).  Reached WW Goal (169 pounds) in August 2003, Lifetime in November 2003.  Starting size = 24.  Current size = 6.

My lovely "Before" pic - 239 pounds in Feb. 2002.  (You can tell how much I like it, kinda beat up!)

By March 30, 2003 I had lost 48.8 pounds ... literally a huge weight off! 

Me drawing in the park (I'm an artist) March 2003.  Down 48.8 pounds, weight 190.2.

In August of 2003 I hit my goal ... down 70 pounds (169 pounds).

Once I reached goal, I decided to keep on losing weight s-l-o-w-l-y ... I was in no hurry.  I figured it would be nice to lose 5 more pounds.  Then, well, why not 5 more?  And ... who says I can't lose 5 more?  I just kept following program, not stressing about it.  And, I continued to lose weight.

Me with hubby Chris after our neighborhood Christmas party - Mid December 2003.  84.4 pounds lost, weight 154.6.  

April 30 2004 - down a total of 89 pounds!  Weight 150 pounds.

As I continued to strive toward my new personal goal of 100 pounds lost, I realized exactly how important all aspects of the Weight Watchers program were for successful weight loss and health.  I not only counted my points but ate all of my veggies diligently, made sure to get in my calcium (through food) and multivitamin, and drank plenty of water (average around 125 oz. water per day).  I still do this and it, along with counting points and healthy activity/exercise, are an integral part of my lifestyle now.

So here are my after pics ... 100.8 pounds lost!  I look good, feel terrific and am so pleased with how strong and healthy I am now.  I wouldn't go back to that person in my "before" picture ... no way!

Note:  I did gain back a few pounds since due to doctor recommendation.  He just wanted to see me a bit "meatier" ;o).

August 2, 2004 - officially at my personal goal weight!  100.8 pounds lost.  And STILL sucking it in ... even though I clearly don't need to ... old habits die hard!  ;o)

August 2, 2004 ... at 138.2, feeling fit and strong!

If I can do this ... so can you!!!  Just remember to take it slow and easy.  Don't let yourself get caught up in the "numbers game" at the scale ... if it isn't moving in the downward direction ask for help from your leader or on the WW message boards ... if you don't give up on yourself these are people who won't give up on you.  With perserverence you will eventually find the way to a sleeker, healthier new you.  Have a great journey!

For information on my exercise routine, click on "exercise routine" next to "home" near the top of the screen.  Feel free to check out the various "Q and A" sections next to this link.