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This day 42 years ago was my first OA Meeting.

Top weight over 400 lbs. Came into OA at 380.

I was an Atheist and completely unwilling to be converted.

By 16 years I was deep into relapse and terrified of being seen but went to a convention.

For the last 15 years I continue to work the steps and improve my spiritual life.

Growing up in an abusive home, in college and grad school  my best friend was sugar/candy.

My life was one crisis after another. One is not enough including suicide attempts.

I went from 88 lbs to 223 and everything in between for 40 years.

I was having physical problems, labelled as obese and that got my attention, getting me into OA.

Started out only willing to call my sponsor daily. Eventually I was gifted with abstinence.

I have had the same body for 10 years and today I love it.

I get something new every time I go the the AA Big Book. How could Bill Wilson know how I felt about my hopelessness?

I did food plans like I did diets.

Today I do the program - the steps, writing, meetings, exercise, service, higher power.

Seeing others who have lost 100, 200 300 pounds and more inspired me and helped me believe it was possible for me.

I could still eat compulsively while on my food plan.