Slade here.  Most call me "The Fat Man" (and with good reason).

I have happily lost 75 pounds.  I now weigh 550, which is still big, but nothing like I was.  I find I can breathe a litle easier (accent on the word "little") and can fit into some of my old clothes again.  Such a feeling of gratitude! 

I still have some health issues, but I am trying like hell to follow doctor's orders and to eat the right things.  Still ain't easy when there's so much temptation around ....

Yet I am determined to lose this bulk.  I hate having to depend on others just because I was stupid enough to eat my way up to 625 pounds.  I was nearly bedridden and developed serious health complications as a result.  I could have very easily had a massive stroke or heart attack, but it's by God's sovereign grace that I didn't.  Each day, I'm doing a little better.  

Baby steps.  One day at a time.

I rely on my scooter to get me around when I'm out; at home, I use a walker.  Don't feel confident yet to go without it.  What if I were to fall accidentally?  Who would get me up, and how?  I'm no featherweight, that's for certain! 

I check my blood pressure and blood sugar every day and eat foods that are good for my choleserol, heart, and lungs; no more of this fatty crap for me!  I've gotten used to eating good-for-me food and have found out that there are plenty of tasty low-carb, low-fat recipes out there for me to enjoy. 

I don't have a personal trainer, which is fine.  Don't need a skinny minnie or skinny mickey telling me what to do and how to do it.  I get my exercise by attending a low-impact water aerobics class twice a week at the hospital; it's done wonders for my morale and self esteem.  Everybody in the class is so encouraging and loving and the instructors are so supportive. 

I need that; I have had more than enough of the negativity, stares, and rude comments to last me for the rest of my life!

At night, I use oxygen, but that's okay.  At least I'm breathing!  I take my trusty tank with me wherever I go, just in case I need a snort.  When asked why I use oxygen, I tell people, "Meet my dog, Charlie.  Yep, taking him out for a walk."  It puts people at ease.

So that's what is new with me.  Still struggling, but doing better.  Getting smaller.  I am well on my way to renewed health.  I can't wait until I am able to do more things for myself; I have had enough of living life as a fat person!  I want to take my life back.  With God's help, I will be able to do it!  I just gotta hope, trust, and believe!

~To be continued.~