Howdy!  This is Marlayne.  Marlayne Goodwrench.  I'm the one who used to weigh over 550 pounds but have since lost all that excess weight (thanks to gastric bypass surgery).  I've also had excess skin removed, so I am looking pretty good, if I must say so myself.

I also feel better.  I can now get around without stopping every few feet so I can get my breath, and it feels so good to be able to sit anywhere without worrying if the seat, chair, or bench will be strong enough to hold me.  It's also satisfying to see people looking at me without revulsion or disgust on their faces.

I can now wear clothes that no longer emphasize my (former) largeness.  I can look decent and wear anything (as long as it's not falling off of me or not too tight!).  I was wearing a 4X; I now wear a size 16 in tops and a size eighteen in pants.  I also have gone down several shoe sizes.  Who ever thought that wearing clothes would feel so good??

I have since recovered from my broken foot of last summer.  I am sooo glad of it!  I have been exercising or jogging every day, eating the right things (smaller portions, but the correct food items, nevertheless); it's been wonderful to not only my physical health, but my mind, emotions, and spirit.  It's like the person residing inside my fat self has finally emerged, and for the first time in years I actually feel like smiling!

I love it when people don't recognize me upon seeing me.  When I tell them who I am, they're like, "No!  You can't be Marlayne Goodwrench; she was fat!  You have got to be somebody else!", and I can't help but laugh!

I've been given a miracle in renewed health, and I'm living proof that with the right help, people can lose weight, especially if they have the Lord to guide them!  If it wasn't for my faith in God, I would have not attained the goals I have today!

Working with the children at Rising Horizons has been one of the greatest joys in my life.  I work with children who are handicapped; they are my angels, and I love them as if they were my very own.  They call me "Mama Marlayne", and they look forward to seeing me every day.  I wish I could take them in as my own, but I know they have their own families.

I am very active with church.  I go to New Hope Nondenominational Church (all faiths are welcomed).  I go just about every Sunday, as does my mom, who lives with me.  I take care of her when I'm not busy with my own affairs.

Mom is in her seventies and has some health issues, but at least I can now be able to take care of her instead of the other way around.  She used to take care of me; now it's my turn to take care of her, and I love it!

Mom has diabetes, high blood pressure, and concerns with high cholesterol; she's also had one mild heart attack; I'm always on her to eat the right things and get the exercise.  We often exercise together.

Chances are, if you see me, you'll see my mommy.  :)  We're one of a kind; we're so close we're practically inseparable.

Well, I thought I'd write in here to let you know what's been up with me.  I know it's been a while; I hope you'll forgive me for not writing.  It's just that I've been very busy, as you can see.  Life for me is good; I pray and hope it continues!  God has been so good to me!

May God bless you as much as He's been blessing me!  Talk to you again soon!

(((HUGS))) and much love,

Your friend, Marlayne Goodwrench.  :D