AS and Obesity

During my childhood up through adolescence, I suffered from obesity. I ate to have something to comfort me. I didn't know at the time I had AS since it was an unknown term 50 years ago. I was constantly bullied, especially in middle school.

Around 17, my Mom made a deal with me that if I just stayed on a diet until my birthday, a few months away, she would get me a stereo. I don't recall how tough it was, but I'm sure it was so in the beginning. I did earn a stereo and by then, new clothes since the clothes I had were getting loose on me. By then, I was in a "routine". I stuck to routines like glue. I was just in the dark as to why that was until only recently when I was diagnosed at 58 that I had AS.

I went from almost 200 lbs. to 115. Once I had no more weight to lose, I got on a routine that maintained my weight. I was told by doctors over the years that I was the "exception" for keeping the weight off.

Now it is no longer a mystery. I discussed this with my doctor when I was diagnosed and told him this story. He didn't think it was far-fetched that I, in an odd sort of way, have AS to thank for losing and maintaining my weight. It wasn't willpower as it was "sticking to a routine" which for me, is as natural for me as a duck is to paddling.

There are challenges to having AS, but I know from personal experience, there are REWARDS!!!