I am excited and a bit nervous to begin this challenge. I am the mother of 4 children, only one still at home, and have three grand children.
I have struggled with my weight since my 20's but never more than 15 lbs or so until I developed back problems which led to two back surgeries. Prior to the first surgery I was bed ridden for several months and on strong medications including a steroid. Not being able to move much at all and feeding my self pity with chocolate, I ballooned up to 238lbs! Of course, after three months of being in bed I had not stepped on a scale or seen myself in a full length mirror and when I did ...on my!
I lost 40 lbs quickly just by being able to return to my normal family life and eliminating the medications. I was ably to lose another 15lbs slowly, over several months, with diet but still very little physical exercise. This has put me at about 185lbs for the last 5 years.
Until... my hysterectomy last December!
My weight has slowly creeped up and yesterday I stepped on the scales to weigh in for this challenge...202lbs! I have not weighed this much since my second back surgery! I feel that the hysterectomy has made it more difficult for me to maintain my weight and I also moved a few months ago. I have a hard time with changes in my routine and they can be an obstacle to my diet.
I finally feel that I have a better schedule and the ability to begin some simple exercise, like walking. Because of my continuing back problems and chronic pain, I am very limited to what I can do physically but I can walk!!!! Well, most days.
I want to lose at least 10 lbs during this challenge but know that proper food choices, exercise, and a healthier life style will be a blessing to my family and our ministry. My prayer is that I might find this group an encouragement and a way to be accountable for my daily choices.
And now...I'm off to take my measurements... (scary!)
My family, March 2010
4 comments:
Hi Rita! My name is Lynn & I really enjoyed reading your story. I too had a hysterectomy this past January so I share your struggles there. I think it was really a fear of breaking my cut back open since I had no staples or stitches...just some kind of glue (& tape for the first 3 weeks after). Something new I guess...You have a very beautiful family and I am excited to be on this journey with you. Thank you for sharing...In Love with Jesus!
Welcome Rita!
You have a beautiful family!
I am looking forward to being on this journey with you!
~Sarah K
Hi Rita,
I also had a hysterectomy a few years ago, and I understand about the changes my body went through. I do still have my ovaries (Praise the Lord for that), but everything else is gone.
Don't be down about walking being the only form of exercise for you. That happens to be my favorite form of exercise and is very effective. Just make sure to listen to your body.
I'm looking forward to getting to know you better.
It's exciting for me to hear all the places you have been to.
Charlie
Thank you all so much for your encouragement. Today I walked 2 miles using Walk away the Pounds, DVD and I played Cricket with family and friends. Yes, Cricket in Paraguay!
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