"Several years ago, I started attending TOPS meetings again. I was first introduced to TOPS by my dad, and then I decided I really did need the support of TOPS, so I found a chapter and started attending again.

Almost three years ago, I set out on a life-changing journey to a healthier me, not only attending the weekly TOPS chapter meetings, but I started attended an outpatient eating disorder program: Many doctors' appointments, psychiatric appointments and counseling meeting with a nutritionist. I weighed 334 pounds. Now I weigh 165 -- my weight loss goal that I set for myself.

I feel better than ever, and consider this one of the best decisions I have ever made.

'To take my life back' -- what does that mean? For me, that means I can now play on the floor with my kids and grandbabies. I no longer sit and watch. I can now hold them all on my lap. I no longer have to ask for a table at a restaurant for fear of not fitting in a booth. I can chase my kids around and ride bikes with them all day and not drag behind.

I now want to play outside. I no longer want to be on the couch. I now love the sunshine -- no more TV binging for me! I can cross my legs. I can walk five miles without huffing and puffing. I get up early and go hiking with friends, and I'm able to run with no extra weight killing my knees. I am able to participate in 5Ks with my friends and family.

I don’t ache and hurt all over anymore. No more blood sugar issues -- my A1C is 4.8, in the normal range. No more high blood pressure! I can now go to theme parks and fit on ALL of the rides. I no longer look around the room and realize that I’m the biggest person there. I can now shop at a regular store for clothes.

I could go on and on and on, but I just feel good. It’s sad, but I’ve probably done more 'living' in the past two years than I did for my past 20. I decide what I do and don’t put in my mouth. I am the one who chooses to get off the couch and get moving.

It does require a complete lifestyle change, but the trade-off, in my opinion, is so worth it in the end. Don’t get me wrong though, it’s hard, and I still struggle, but I always get back to my goals, and my mind-set is to keep my new lifestyle (in place).

If you are (someone) out there needing an extra nudge, here you go. And -- one more perk! -- I can now tie my own tennis shoes!"

You only get out of TOPS what you put into it. We can't guarantee weight loss just by attending meetings, but we can offer support through each stage of your weight-loss journey. Your results may vary.