WOW Moments to Remember!

I am coming up on my two year surgiversary. I have lost 190 pounds. My best WOW moment was when my son told me to jump on and he would give me a piggy back ride. At first, I thought he was nuts, but then I thought why not. I think it was the best moment I have had since surgery.- Cheryl B.

Last evening, out of nowhere, I had the most amazing WOW moment as I did not recognize myself when I looked in the mirror. I could not pull myself away for at least five minutes as I suddenly realized I no longer had my triple chin and chubby cheeks. I always used to joke about my little eyes that would disappear the minute I smiled, but not anymore. I can smile now and my eyes stay open! Woohoo! And who knew I had a neck? I sure as heck didn’t, but I have one now... go figure!

To top it off, my youngest son put the cherry on top of the cake. When he hugged me, he was so proud to say he could hug me tightly and both of his hands touched each other. He was happy to tell me he could hug me tighter and that one day he will be able to lift me.- LovableLynn

I went on a date a couple of weekends ago and he started tickling me, and I actually was ticklish. Almost painfully ticklish. He could tickle my bones, never was honestly ticklish before. The other thing that really amazes me is how I was invisible before to strangers, and now they send me a smile. Maybe it’s because my confidence level has increased, but hey, whatever it is, I’ll take it.- Nancy

I am featured as the Transformation of the Week on Bodybuilding.com. The WOW moment for me was being in good enough shape to step on stage for a national, pro qualifier bodybuilding show last October — only 18 months post-op! Shortly after the show, Hartford Hospital, along with my surgical team, were putting together a TV show that provides information on bariatric surgery along with inspirational testimonials from successful patients. I was selected as the Lap-Band patient to appear on the show. That aired in March.

Then, again, another HUGE WOW moment came after the first of the year when I received a call from a casting company in LA. There were hired by Allergan to select a Lap-Band patient to be part of their new magazine and website marketing campaign. At first, I was skeptical, but after some leg work and confirmation from my surgeon, I went along for the ride. After sending in numerous photos and video, I got “the” call late in January to say I was selected! Not only was I paid standard rates, but all expenses were paid. My husband and I extended the trip to five days and turned the experience into a second honeymoon as well. The experience was incredible, and I was treated like a star. The ads are scheduled to appear in main stream magazines such as Better Homes & Gardens, InTouch, MensHealth, Oprah, etc.- Leslee

To share your own WOW moment...Send your name, a short description of your moment, and photos to [email protected]. Don’t forget to visit the ObesityHelp.com message boards and share your Wow moments with your peers!