I weighed 280 pounds when I came into program at age 22. I have lost 145 pounds and have maintained my weight loss for over six years.

As far back as I can remember, food and weight were problems for me. I was embarrassed about my weight as a child and was teased by other kids because of it. I always felt as though I didn’t fit in. Not only was I chubby, I was very insecure and fearful.

I tried to buy friends and ended up being mean and bossy with them because they never met my expectations. I thought losing the weight and being able to fit into designer jeans would solve these problems. When I finally did lose some weight and bought those jeans, I quickly learned that it wasn’t the answer.

My home life was also very chaotic, and food was my main source of comfort amid the chaos. By age 15, I had begun experimenting with cigarettes and alcohol. I also sought out boyfriends who didn’t really care about me. Through all of this, I continued to gain weight and to draw further into myself, eventually refusing to even try to make new friends.

I began to suffer from insomnia, anxiety attacks, and heart palpitations. I had high blood pressure and a cholesterol problem. My knees and head ached frequently, and I had shooting pains in my legs, arms, and neck. I had skin problems, including acne on my back, and occasional infections. I had stomach problems on a daily basis and had trouble breathing.

All of that is gone now. Obese and angry on the outside, scared and immature on the inside, I was willing to do anything if only I could be thin and happy.

I knew I had found the solution the day I walked into FA. Having tried every conceivable diet by the time I was 12 years old, I was scared and not sure I could do it.

And I was right. I couldn’t do it alone, but with the help of a Higher Power and the FA program, I lost the weight fairly quickly and other things immediately started looking up for me.

I continue to be willing to do anything to keep the recovery I’ve gotten in FA, and I’m very grateful for that. If I can successfully abstain from addictive eating for over seven years, I truly believe anyone can. I was a drunk with food, and it affected my whole outlook on life. Because of this program, I feel better at 29 years old than I ever have in my life.