I'm joining the fray. I've been overweight for at least 35 years (since before high school) , had a mild stroke a few years ago, learned to walk again, and now I'm finally making the lifestyle changes I need.

I decided not to "diet" but change the way I eat - permanently. I decided to follow a strict Keto program (with one cheat meal per week) until I'm at my goal weight and the follow a loose one from that point to maintain it.

In the first week and a half, I've lost 12.3 pounds. That's like throwing a suitcase off the deck of the Titanic, but we all have to start somewhere. I would have to lose another 117 pounds to hit my "ideal" weight. I'll hit my personal goal if I lose another 97.

The good news for the rest of the world is there might finally be enough pasta for everybody to enjoy.

Right now I'm doing 30 minutes of cardio 3 times a week, but I am slowly going to increase that to more cardio, and then eventually a full program to include weight training and full-body exercise. One hurdle at a time.