To say the least, 2020 has been challenging and full of obstacles for many of us. I was so excited when I was notified in March that I was a winner. Then the world shut down. I admit that my first reaction was to throw myself the only kind of party that was still legal­— a giant pity party. When I stopped feeling sorry for myself, I realized how blessed I am in so many ways. Things happen for reasons we don't always understand, and maybe this is the best year to tell my story.

I was sitting with some people I just met, and the discussion came around to weight. One woman said, "Obviously, that's something you don't have to worry about." My first thought was, "Are you kidding me? If you only knew..." I've struggled with weight my entire life. My moment of truth came when I reached over 540 pounds. I was barely mobile and knew I was on the verge of major health issues. The cornerstones of my success have been a strong support system, turning negative into positive, practicing forgiveness, and discovering my triggers and developing strategies to deal with them

The person I'm most grateful for is my husband, Al. He saw what was beautiful in me when I didn't. He loved me when I couldn't love myself. My chapter was there for me anytime I needed them. They're my friends, touchstones and accountability.

This journey has been one wild rollercoaster ride—emotionally and physically. It's involved decades of trial and error, but I know I've made lasting changes. I finally feel at peace and comfortable with who I am. It's never too late. At 66 years old, I'm the healthiest and happiest I've been in my entire life.

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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.