One year ago today, I wrote five words in my first blog:
I’m Erika and I’m obese.
I’ve never been so scared in my life. I never would have suspected those words would set me free.
Since that first entry, “Erika is Losing It” has received more than 61,000 hits. I have met so many of you and have been moved and humbled by your support. I love Weight Watchers, but I truly believe that this blog has been the key to my success.
I’ve been a writer for most of my life. And I have always written for other people. I was a newspaper reporter for 10 years before coming to Children’s. Now I write to fundraise for our precious patients.
But I had no idea that my writing could change my life. I never would have dreamed about sharing all my secrets with strangers or even people I know. I had spent so long trying to hide my food addiction. To bring it to the light was a ridiculous thought.
I remember seeing my first entry posted on Careforce. I honestly thought I’d pass out. I was genuinely terrified of the reaction I’d get by sharing myself so openly. It was all new to me. Now it's a special part of my life.
I’m so grateful to those of you who read regularly—or sporadically. Thank to those of you who have been with me since last February, and welcome to those who are just joining.
I’ve said it a million times, and I’ll probably say it a million more, but thank you. Thank you for saving my life.
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17 comments:
Congratulations, lady! And thank YOU for being such an inspiration. You rock, and I am so happy for you!!
I've read every one of your posts. I look forward to them. You are so open and sometimes raw in a way that all of us with weight issues can completely relate to. I hope you continue to post even after you have reached your goal.
~Laura S.
Ever since you started this blog I have looked forward to each and every update. As I said before, I have learned much from you and your journey. Thank you for sharing it with us!
Happy Blogiversary!! Thank you for sharing with us and making us your blog family. You are an inspiration...and hilarious to boot! Keep up the good work. We love you!
I look forward to your blog always and honestly cannot believe it's been a year! Wow! You are such an inspiration Erika! Keep up the awesome blogging, the honesty and the great work on a better YOU!!
Love ya girl,
Dawn
We didn't save you, Erika. You did that all on your own. Our support would not have made much of a difference if you hadn't been ready to start this journey; we're just here to help keep you on the path.
Congratulations!
Girl you rock! That says it all!
Caryn
Time sure does fly! Thanks so much for your time, openness and honesty. So many have traveled with you on your journey. Your gift has let others know that change is possible and they are not a lone!
I am so proud of you!!!
Linda B. You4Life Trainer
So proud of you Ericka! Happy Blogiversary, :)
Norma S. (Zumba)
YES!!! I'm soooo happy for you, girl!!! Just goes to prove that going out on a limb and stretching oneself emotionally can reap HUGE benefits! You are awesome! Not only have you helped yourself through your blog, you've helped COUNTLESS others!!
I am so proud of you, thankful to have you as a co-worker, and honored to have become your friend. Thanks for just being awesome Erika :)
emily
Wow! Time sure does fly when you're having fun! Thank you for your honesty, openness and most of all your friendship. Your blog has helped so many people, including me! The impact of your words is...beyond words. I'm so proud of you and what you have accomplished. Can't wait to see you in Zumba soon! Love you girl.
Alyson said exactly what I was going to say. Your journey has inspired me to get back on the wagon myself. I love your posts, positive and negative, and look forward to watching you on your journey.
You are a true inspiration to all people with any addiction; food, drugs, alchohol, shopping, etc. I gave up the food years ago, but never dealt with the issues honestly and openly as you have.
Keep sharing with us, and keep up the good work! Tell me how you keep up the motivation to exercise after so long on the couch.
It has been an honor to watch you evolve. You illuminate hope for all of us! Thanks Ka!!
Jess
Congrats and Happy Anniversary, Erika!! Soon you can start subbing for me since you are dedicated to all your fitness classes and know every single one of my Zumba routines :-) Sooooo proud of you!!
Hey Erica, I know that you are very proud of yourself and you should be. You look so great! Keep up the good work !
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