Payton L.

Three years ago, I was faced with a tough decision at my annual physical when I weighed in at 292 pounds and was labeled morbidly obese: to continue down an unhealthy path or take control of my health and happiness. Between the challenges I was already facing and the long list of implications, I decided to take my life back and prioritize my health.

This meant learning to listen to my body, figuring out how to balance my hormones with PCOS, and finding a lifestyle my body responded to and that made me feel good.

I am proud to be 130 pounds down, but even more grateful to feel healthy and happy. It was hard - and sometimes still is - but I hope women will start sharing their stories more vulnerably so we can all find our very own healthy with support and a community.