I am 55 years old.  I retired from teaching in June 2011 after 34 years teaching first grade and kindergarten.  After the death of my brother John two years ago this September, my weight spiraled out of control. I've gained back 50 of the 100 pounds I lost in the previous 4 years. My life was thrown into chaos, and I reverted to stuffing myself in an attempt to stop the pain of losing my brother.  He was 15 months oolder than me.  It was quite a shock.  John suffered an abdominal aortic anyuerism.  I have been checked and there is no indication that I have the same problem.  I miss him and I miss me.  I was just beginning to enjoy my life as a thin person. I've spent most of my adult life obese.  My goal is to make this a life altering habit. I want to live. I'm looking to this website for support and encouragement.