I come from generations of alcoholics and overeaters.

I am one of eight and we all have 'issues'

I thought we were a close knit family, I was a strong fixer. I later discovered I was a martyr and a victim putting my emotional well being onto my husband.

In adolescence I felt 'large' but looking back l it was not the case.

It was in marriage I progressed from plump to 280 lbs.

I was scared into seeking 'life' one evening in the 90s

It was in open AA meetings where I really learned about the 12 steps and all the human drama that work with the 12 steps.

I keep my eyes on the prize - being joyous, happy and free.