[chazzyb31]

Hi Halelani,

I'm sorry to hear you've had such a tough time of it. It must have been big blow to go from being fit and active to being in a wheelchair. I can't imagine it myself, as I'm a natural couch potato, but it must have been a very frustrating time for you. It's very easy for food to become your friend at times like that. It's also a difficult habit to break once your life changes again for the better.

I'm pleased that you're up and about again. I don't know what your fitness level is like, but if walking is difficult for you, would you be able to swim instead? A lot of leisure centres run aquaerobic classes for over 50s, so you might enjoy something like that. I know that bathing suits are scary when you're overweight, but if you can find the right environment it doesn't have to be an issue. Do you have any friends with weight problems? You could start a little club and all go swimming together and support each other. Then you wouldn't feel like you were standing out in a crowd. I don't know if that's good advice or not. I've been overweight my whole life and used to be self-conscious about it, but I learned to accept myself a long time ago, so now it doesn't bother me. Sorry if you don't find that very helpful.

Alternatively, you might want to try something gentle like yoga? I know a few people who do it and find it very beneficial. There's bound to be a class somewhere near you. Or perhaps cycling is an option? If you don't have a bike perhaps you can borrow one or hire one? Then, if you enjoy it, you can think about buying one for yourself. It doesn't have to be expensive and you could save money and the environment by cycling instead of driving places?

I'm just throwing these ideas out there. Feel free to ignore them completely. Whatever you do, I wish you the best of luck with your weight loss journey. I look forward to hearing more from you.