THANK YOU! This sounds so much like me and is so close to what I did! I "came out" if you will on Facebook the day before my surgery because I wanted people to know that there's nothing to be ashamed of, in fact, I'm quite proud of the commitments I've made. Plus, how do you hide dramatic weight loss? Better to explain once then every time someone new sees you. I've been lucky to have positive reception, but there will always be nay-sayers.
I too am a Grad student and know the pain of both the tiny desks and the tuition bill!
Good luck with your journey!