Hi and welcome!

Sure you'll find some great stories in the area for weight loss stories and before and after shots.. there are a good few I can think of off the top of my head that have 'made it'

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I can't say that.. but I'm sure that if you stick to plan 100% and drink LOTS of water (some go for 4 litres rather than the recommended allowance) you'll see amazing losses! I can see you've lost 23lb so far which lets face it is fantastic!! nearly 8% of your total to lose is a great start!
Setting mini goals and joining a team will all help along the way I'm sure!