Groovymommy

I've always been a "big girl," but I was very healthy and pretty comfortable in my own skin until I hit perimenopause. At that time, I had to start taking Effexor for anxiety as well as hot flashes etc. Effexor sorted out my mental issues but, unfortunately, caused me to gain weight - a LOT. Now that I'm older (and officially menopausal), my metabolism is slower, and I need to stay on Effexor for my mental health, making weight loss nearly impossible. I've tried all the diets, WW, Noom, etc. I'm ready to get off the rollercoaster and lose weight and keep it off. 

Unfortunately, my health insurance doesn't cover any kind of weight loss programs, surgery, etc. So I decided to invest in myself. I took out a personal medical loan to pay for my surgery, which I figure should help to motivate me as well. 

My goals are less about weight, though I certainly have a number in mind. I'm more focused on feeling healthier, sleeping better, doing household chores without pain, being able to participate in activities without getting tired, being able to fly without feeling totally squashed and having to ask for a seatbelt extender, and being able to fit into non-plus-size clothes.