Dear Gee-ma,
Your story has given me such hope. You and I have so much in common, you will not believe it! I am also a "gaga" from NC!
I am wondering how you are doing now, several years after this post. Have you managed to keep up the good fight?...I made multiple attempts with the Atkins WOE in the past 10 yrs, but failed each time. This time, I feel, is different. I am fighting for my life! (See my thread under"introductions" with today's date.)
Would love to hear from you, Gee-ma. You have inspired me greatly!