I have been following this forum for several months now. I know many of you by name, though you don't know me. (sounds a little creepy!)

Many of you and your honesty were the reason I decided to join this forum. I am very simple guy. I don't have facebook, twitter, or whatever else is cool these days. But this forum gives me a place to vent and to learn from others.....so thank you.

I was 340 lbs when I started this journey back in June, By day of surgery (9/30/15), I was down to 300lbs. Today I weighed in at 252 LBS. I feel great, I have been working out and lifting, something I haven't done since H.S.

I started this journey for a couple a big reason, 1) for my own health and to be around longer, and 2) the big reason. MY FAMILY.

My wife is my rock, and best friend. She is greatest support I can have. My beautiful daughter, and lastly my "HERO SON". He has hard life since he was born. He was born extremely premature at 1LB-6 oz.. This year he was recently diagnosed with autism. I am doing mostly for him, because I want to be there to protect him and help him with the struggles he has every day. He is only 7 and goes through therapy every day. If he can do it...so can I.

Thank you all for reading and I hope that above doesn't sound too corny, just wanted to give a quick background on myself. This was a big step for me to join....never have belonged to any kind of online "family" before. I hope to get to know some of you more now.

Welcome! Your progress looks phenomenal! Keep it up.

You sound like a great dad and your kids are lucky to have you and even luckier that you have started to care about your own health. This place is a wonderful place for all of us to share our experiences and learn.

Thank you. Sometimes harder for us males to admit we need help or encouragement sometimes. This is special place.

The world needs more people like you. Thanks for your motivation.

Welcome! Thanks for sharing your tale. Keep up the good work

Well done, brother, very well done.

You have your priorities in order and your head screwed on straight.

You'll make some seriously good health changes and already are.

Fight the good fight !!!!!

You're doing amazing! Your family, although I'm sure were proud of you before, must be even prouder of you!

Here's to a long, happy life with your beautiful family!

Thank you for sharing your story, it is very inspiring. Congrats on your weight loss!

You have some great motivation behind you. Wonderful success so far - and wishing you continued success!!