Despite having lost 118(.2!!!) pounds over the last couple of years, I still have too much butt.

Not a big surprise, right? (See what I did there?)

At least there’s a lot less of it, but I’ve still got too much personal padding, which is why I’ve done several things over recent weeks to refocus my efforts. I’ve added more movement to my routine. I’m better about recording my foods and watching the things I should be watching.

Truth.

This week, I went to the doctor. After having been at the same relative weight for three months, I felt it best to rule out any changes in my body. I’m relieved to know that everything looks good, and talking to my doctor also gave me some resources and focus that I need in order to keep pushing onward.

I admit I was scared when I went into his office. My blood pressure and pulse always skyrocket when I walk into a doctor’s office. I have had some bad experiences over the years, but just about every doctor, dentist, optometrist, and other medical professionals I’ve dealt with over the years have been terrific people.

Except — well, except. I’ve brought up my weight issues with a number of them, and it’s only been over the last ten years or so that I feel like I’ve been taken seriously. I’m not hunting a magic bullet or pill to make me miraculously lose weight; hell, every pound I’ve ever lost has been hard work. I have been dismissed, though. I’ve been given the whole eat less, move more speech. I’ve been treated as if I’m being dishonest about my food and lifestyle choices.

Unfortunately, it took developing a number of medical issues to get the medical profession to pay attention. Anytime I want to discuss a concern regarding weight loss, I gird myself for a battle. I expect to be told to try harder, buy a weight loss program, or learn to live with how things are.

So imagine my surprise when my doctor was more than willing to listen, to counsel and suggest, and not just disregard me — I was stunned. And thrilled! I can count on my doctor to be on my side, my support team, hoping for my success as much as I do, and I’m relieved. I need every resource I can to succeed, and I’m glad to have yet another.

Because I still have too much butt, but not for long. Things are changing.