In late 2011, I weighed 227 pounds and was diagnosed with liver function failure. and prediabetes. I changed my lifestyle and steadily lost about 2 pounds a week, with an ultimate goal of losing 100 pounds. I lost 82 pounds, got to 145, and got very comfortable in a size 9. I really think that wearing dresses sized at a single number did miracles for me. I could finally shop at "normal girl's" clothing stores. I was so happy, and I stopped losing weight. This was at the end of 2012.

Since then, I shot back up to 167, applied to graduate school, and finished a dual degree masters-level program. I am finally getting stable, using my 2 masters to start a career in a new sector. School stress levels are finally balancing out, and I am almost back down to my pre-grad school weight of 145. That's actually my first weight loss goal. My second weight loss goal is to have lost 100 pounds and get to 127.

But my true goal is no longer weight-related. In losing the weight the first time, there was a lot of shame involved. I put myself through an emotional and psychological rollercoaster, and I was very militant. It's no way to live long-term. Now, I am dedicated to learning how to achieve health and happiness, with weight loss being a side effect of that. I'm learning it's not just about the scale. There is so much to health and wellness, and I am open to learning as much as I can so that I can truly, holistically care for the body that was given to me by creator.