Loose Change: My 150lb Curse

Hello,
 I'm sharing this anonymously because it’s incredibly difficult to talk about. I apologize in advance if this feels heavy.

At my highest, I weighed 347 pounds. Today, I weigh 180.6 pounds! I’ve lost over 150 pounds through hard work, discipline and a lot of dedication and change. Despite such a huge accomplishment, I am now trapped in a body that doesn’t reflect what I’ve overcome. Food was my escape, it was how I coped. After years of healing my relationship with food, I am now left with something that can’t be healed, at least not on my own: loose skin. I am made of more skin than bone. I’m always itchy, uncomfortable and irritated. I scratch myself raw when trying to go to sleep and deal with painful rashes. I can’t wear normal clothes without the skin seeping over. In short terms, everyday is a physical and emotional battle.

That being said, I take 100% full accountability for how I got here. I acknowledge and accept that this is entirely my fault. But I’ve worked hard—really hard—to turn my life around. And now, the only thing standing between me and feeling *free* is skin removal surgery. The surgery is expensive, and without insurance or financial support, it’s out of reach. I work, but most of my income goes directly into school. I grew up in a big family in a small home, and money has always been tight. I know I’m asking for a lot. But this is my last resort. I want to feel comfortable in my body for the first time in my life. Please help in any way you can, whether that be making a donation or sharing my story.

They say you can’t help someone who doesn’t want it—and I didn’t used to want help. I fell into a dark place, and I stayed there too long. But now, I’m trying. I’m standing up. I just need a lift. If you can donate, I’m beyond grateful. If you can share this, thank you. Any support helps. Thank you for reading this. Truly. May God bless you.