Minneapolis

Member Since October 2001

My Story
I came into this world screaming and hungry at a whopping 11 pounds 4 ounces. I was eating baby food before I left the hospital.

Fast forward to gaining a lot of weight and attending college. During that time I became anorexic and bulimic. I worked out 4 hours a day. I lost 100 pounds in 6 months. I finally felt pretty (even though my bones were sticking out and my arms and legs looked like sticks).

On an episode of 60 Minutes I learned about the damage I was doing to my body and that I could possibly die -- that's when I sought help. I was in therapy for 2 years. I began smoking so I wouldn't gain weight. I smoked for 10 years 2 packs a day. I got tired of smoking and decided to quit. I took up crocheting to keep my hands busy. I made 6 afghans in a month! But I haven't smoked since.

Not only did use making afghans as a crutch, I also ate as a crutch. The pounds came back on slowly but steadily and suddenly found myself wearing a tight size 22W and 260 pounds! Oh how I hated shopping and trying on clothes. I felt humiliated. On the outside I acted as if everything was rosy, but inside I was miserable and hated myself.

Eight years ago, my brother died of a sudden massive heart attack at the age of 47. At my annual physical I was told that I needed to lose weight and exercise. I joined Curves. I hated to exercise (and still do!). But I faithfully worked out 3-4 days a week. I wasn't losing any weight but I felt better and stronger.

Four and years ago I decided time to find an eating program that I could and would follow for the rest of my life. I researched many and decided on a low glycemic index eating program. The program is based on whole grain products, natural foods, no white sugar or flour. I also stepped up my workouts to 6 times a week to help to get the weight moving off me.

It is now June 2009. I have lost 100 pounds through my eating program and working out at Curves (I have 1,800 workouts!). I am very proud of myself! I am now wearing a size 12 and feel great! I haven't had white sugar or white flour for over 4 years. I still hate to exercise! But it has become a habit or another crutch! But at it a healthy habit or crutch and I have made it a part of daily routine.

I love Curves! Curves is a second home to me--the friendships, love and support I get there is outstanding. The other members have been very supportive of me and kept me motivated to continue to work out and keep losing weight; without them, I know I wouldn't be where I am today! I also owe a lot of thanks to the Owner of the Curves I attend, Jodi Hastings. Her cheerleading and support gave me what I needed to keep coming back!

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