Success Story: Rosie

Rosie, Age 26, Height 5ft 2in

Start Weight	11st 1lb
Current Weight	9st 7½lbs
Goal Weight	9st 7½lbs
Weight Lost	1st 7½lbs
Working to Rate of Loss	1lbs per week

Weight Loss History

I have tried Weight Watchers in the past but only managed to shift on average ½lb a week.

I found the weekly class a little bit too general with no specific advice or support for me as an individual.

Once the class was finished I was ‘on my own’ again. I struggled with the calorie counting and without advice of ‘experienced dieters’ found myself snacking at all hours.

Have you lost weight before and regained the weight?

I managed to lose just under a stone with WW but soon gained it back without realising. I managed to undo a lot of hard work just by going on a 2-week holiday. This is what caused me to quit.

How being overweight has affected you…

As soon as I joined WLR, I felt I was part of something.

In the past I always felt like the short, fat friend. I envied people around me who could eat and eat and not gain a pound.

I was a very shy character. I lacked self-esteem and took everything personally even if it wasn’t meant in a bad way.

"I would wear clothes that were too big in an attempt to hide the extra weight. I wanted to fade into the background so no one would poke fun or make hurtful comments."

Once I started to lose the weight, my confidence grew. I began to dress better for my shape.

I was proud to be me again and even more proud of the way I looked. People began to notice almost straight away.

Some were surprised just how much my dress sense had improved my look. The baggy jumpers had been replaced with smaller, more flattering styles. I felt great!

"I held my head high at work instead of fading into the background. I loved voicing my views whereas before I wouldn’t have dreamed of doing so."

Since losing the extra weight, I have noticed that people’s perceptions have changed. People who would normally just say ‘Hi’ have made comments about how well I have done and how I have inspired them to make some changes too.

I get noticed more when I am out with my friends and Dan (my boyfriend) is very happy with the newer, more confident, sometimes younger looking Rosie!!

Motivation to Lose Weight

My main reason for joining WLR was to shift some pounds for my best friend’s wedding.

"I had four months to lose as much as possible and I was very determined to look my best for my part of Matron of Honour."

Sandra and I have been friends for 5 years and through the whole period I was overweight and self-conscious and she was tall, slim and absolutely stunning.

I didn’t want to ruin her wedding photographs or be referred to as the fat friend again!

"Within my first week of WLR I managed to shift 4lbs. I was absolutely over the moon."

This along with the support of the ‘regulars’ on the forums and my food and exercise diaries! I was well on the way to achieving my first target. I wanted to wear a size 12 dress.

Discovering Weight Loss Resources

I discovered WLR by complete accident. I had already made the decision to shift some weight when Sandra mentioned her engagement so I decided to start out by planning my first week’s food diary (with pen and paper).

I logged onto Google in search of an online calorie counter. WLR came up in the results and from that moment I was hooked.

How Weight Loss Resources Helps

WLR was the answer to all my prayers, with its comprehensive food and exercise databases, informative articles and its easy to understand charts.

"But, it was the 24 hour support from people in the same boat as me that I found invaluable."

There were times when I couldn’t sleep and I was tempted to snack but instead I would log on and read other people’s messages; some were very inspiring and others were just funny. It took my mind off the bacon butty I had woke up to prepare.

Reading other success stories kept me going on so many occasions. I didn’t feel alone – even at 2:30am in the morning.

"With the experience and knowledge gained from this site, I can now plan balanced meals and allow the odd moment of madness. I can still have KFC occasionally!"

I understand and have experienced the benefits of a balanced diet. I eat as much fruit and veg as possible and keep topping up on water.

I know that if I am planning a night out I will be more sensible for the few days surrounding the event.

There is no need to change your life, just amend your lifestyle.

The Best of Weight Loss Resources

I couldn’t be without the forum. I have had some really tough times over the past 6 months but there has always been a shoulder to cry on.

"My friends from this site have offered advice in so many areas of my life, some of which I will always be grateful for."

The advice offered is not always to do with food or ‘dieting.’ It can be about anything. It’s great, it’s like having 100 brains to pick at any one time!

Rosie's Tips for Losing Weight

• Always aim for realistic targets. I wanted to be a size 12 (previously I was a size 14/16). Once I achieved that goal, size 10 became my next mission.
• Be patient. Anything can happen if you put your mind to it.
• Do not cheat! If you fancy a little treat, then why not go for a short walk first. You can earn calories and you rid the feeling of guilt when you are tucking into that chocolate biscuit.
• I found that telling Dan about my goals was a positive step. I had the motivation to keep going plus a fantastic walking buddy. Everyone needs that someone to provide support when you are starting to wilt.
• Finally, don’t give up! Without Dan and WLR I would still be the short fat friend that blended into the background.