Hi, my name is Chris and I recently decided to retire at the age of 62 after working 38 years in I/T and 10 other years at technology companies. I came from a family with 2 brothers and 1 sister. We've all struggled with weight problems. We seem to be able to take the pounds off, but soon gain them back and then some. I was able to stay at my ideal weight whenever I worked on a job that was physical, but working in a sit down I/T job definitely provided challenges.
On top of all of that there's the challenges that life poses. I mentioned that I had two brothers (one 10 years younger than me and the other 13 years younger). I was close to both of them (more than my sister). Well, both of my brothers decided to commit suicide within 4 years of each other. They both were facing some challenges, and I wish they would have talked to me about them before making that decision, but they didn't. The loss of my brothers hit me hard (especially, the way they went). The loss of the second one is the primary reason I decided on early retirement. I just didn't feel I had it in me any more to keep on working this hard given my losses. Our mother also committed suicide and so I guess that's one of the things that contributed to their decision.
I've never been all that close with my sister, but we're trying to stay in touch since we're all we have now in the way of siblings. I am married, have a beautiful daughter, and a wonderful 2 year old grand-daughter. My daughter and wife have also struggled with weight issues (as well as my son-in-law). I'm hoping I'll be successful this time and keep the weight off and be a role model to show them this "can" be done.
Sorry this wasn't the best blog to read, but I think it's important to realize we all have challenges, but that we can kick this weight loss challenge in the butt once and for all.