Tinkerbelle_325's Weight Loss Goals: Short-Term Aug/Sept 2007

[TinkerBelle_325]

June 19th 2007: A Sigh of Relief

This is my first on many entries in my weight loss journal. I guess the best way to start off is with a bit of background info on me. I'm Tink, I'm 22 years old and recently graduated from University with an Honours Bachelor of Arts Degree. When I entered University 4 years ago I weighed 175lbs. I gained my Freshman 15 in my 2nd year, bringing me to 190lbs. I stayed at that weight for quite some time and while it wasn't ideal for my height (5'7) I was comfortable with the fact that I only wanted to lose about 25lbs. I would fluctuate between 180 and 190, accounting stress as the main factor in my weight loss failures. After a breakup in September 2006 I found myself at 200lbs. In November of 2006 I started gaining weight rapidly, despite the fact that I had made no changes to my fitness patterns or eating habits. I ignored the extra weight and simply brushed it off as a result of the holidays. However, by the end of December I found that I was gaining weight rapidly, that stretch marks were appearing and I was distressed to step on the scale and see 239lbs. I was crushed and worried about my health.

A visit to my doctor revealed the most shocking revelation of all. She knew back in May 2006 that my TSH levels (the measure of hormones produced by the thyroid) were steadily elevating. I had been back to see my doctor in July and no mention was made. I got a call in October telling me to inquire about the levels at my physical....in 6 MONTHS! So, when I made an appointment in Jan to discuss my weight concerns she informs me it is likely a result of the thyroid problem I wasn't even aware that I had! Needless to say I was furious that this issue had not been brought to my attention sooner. I was put on thyroid medication and given the name of a specialist.

I had an appointment with the specialist in March, and he ran another set of tests to check for numerous conditions. He told me to check back with him in june and receive the results as well as re-evaluate my thyroid levels.

Well, yesterday I had my follow up appointment with him. He informed me that my TSH levels are 100% back to normal, I have no blood sugar, blood pressure or cortisol problems. I have a perfect bill of health, except the fact that I still need to lose a good 60lbs. However, this is the first time in 6 months I've been told that I should not have a problem losing the weight as long as I make appropriate lifestyle changes. Needles to say I'm THRILLED!

Currently I weigh 225lbs. My goal is to lose 30lbs by my August/Sept 2 week WDW extravaganza! hehe

Basically I have to lose 3lbs a week. I am following a combination of Weight Watchers and the Abs Diet.

Wish me luck and I'll check in weekly with progress updates.

 

[TinkerBelle_325]

Just bumping as I forgot to mention....Please feel free to post

 

[tbstein]

Hello Tink.

Thought I would stop by since my DH's nick name is also Tink. (It has to do with his initals and all!)

So, are you still currently taking thyroid medication? I have hypothyroidism, and it took my doctor 18 months and 60 pounds to figure it out. I have other health issues, but this was the first one. I never did loose weight as soon as regulating my thyroid. I have only done so by focusing on being more healthy, and to be more active.

Must have been a crazy roller coaster 6 months with doctors. Especially since they really didn't tell you everything right up front. It is good to finally get to the end and find you are in good health!

I want to say welcome and the very best of luck! The support group here is great and really help to keep the sanity at a reasonable level.

Good luck and best wishes! Pixie dust will commence to bring you all you need to meet your goals!

Wendy

 

[kimwim8]

Hi Tink! Welcome to WISH journals.

I'm sorry to hear all you went through. That must've been really scary to not know why you were gaining weight.

Congrats on your clean bill of health and good luck with your weight loss plan! Keep on journaling and we'll be here for ya!

 

[TinkerBelle_325]

July 2nd 2007

Whew! I've been so busy lately that I haven't had any time to update on here. This past week I trained for my summer job: It's my first summer working at a camp. I take teens around to the movies, the mall, bowling, mini putt and to local attractions. It is certainly going to keep me busy as I will be active for 8 hours a day. That should definitely help with my weight loss. Speaking of weight loss, I'm down 9lbs, which puts me at 216lbs! Weight watchers is definitely working for me. Unfortunately I haven't had any time to go to the gym. With working 42 hours a week in a very active job I'll be happy if I get to the gym twice a week. I've also learned that if i don't schedule time for myself to go I won't. This week I intend to go on Wed evening and Sat afternoon. I have 54 days until my WDW vacation and if I keep going at the rate I've been going I should easily be able to reach (and exceed) my 30lb goal!

 

[tbstein]

Congrats on the weight loss. A wonderful start!

Wendy