Single after raising a niece and nephew for ten years. They're no longer with me, but the weight stayed... and grew over those years of having them. Being older, I couldn't lose the weight, no matter that I exercised and tried to eat right. I'd lose some, gain more. It'd take a lot more work in my mid-forties to lose a little weight, but so much easier to gain it back.

I wasn't making enough headway. Comments from doctors and other people would send any loss I'd accomplish far away and bring on the depression, and I'd gain it all back. Exercise would cause arthritis in my knee to flare, and the Atkins Diet, which worked so well in my thirties, just caused painful constipation and not much loss weight.

I'd had enough. On October 29, 2013, I had the gastric sleeve operation. That was the best decision I'd ever made. It is still hard work, and to lose, I have to eat right and exercise. It's a very big lifestyle change. BUT, the efforts I'm making are paying off, unlike before the surgery.

Now in 2017, about four years after my weight loss surgery, I've started gaining weight again. My doctor says it happens a lot and is something to keep watch on. Complete healing has occurred and eating everyday foods no longer cause as much discomfort as previously so old habits sneak up. For this reason, I have now joined Weight Watchers. It is a totally different mindset, focusing on points in stead of protein intake and minimal carbs. So far, I think it's working.