Joined: Sep 2012
Posts: 780
Likes: 131
From: Back-of-beyond, Kootenays, BC
Bikes: Specialized Roubaix Expert Road and Specialized Stump Jumper FS Mountain; De Vinci Caribou touring, Intense Tracer T275c, Cramerotti, Specialized Allez, Condor, Marinoni, Kona Rove DL
Welcome aboard. You ask us not to be judgmental. Sounds like you're dealing with your demons and that's what counts. Keep up the good work. I expect biking will help.
I think the 27.5 is your best choice. It is a bit more nimble for the downhills especially if there are tight turns. I'm use to a 26er and feel like I'm sitting on a bulldozer when I've tried out a 29. Buy the one you like and that fits you best.