As this year comes to an end....

We can all reflect back to where we were this time last year and boy do we have a lot to be greatful for. What kinds of things can we all do now that we wouldn't have even dared try last year..... I'll start..... --Tie my shoes without sitting down--now I can just bend over and do it --Ride a bicycle --Jog --Inline skate --Smile because I like what I see in the mirror looking back at me --Wear a seat belt comfortably including on an airplane without an extension --Lots more self esteem Oh there is so much I am greatful for! This surgery is the best thing I could have done for myself! Anybody else like to share? Charlotte 269/161/137

I am greatful I can cross my legs, I enjoy climbing the stairs and I dont get out of breath. I enjoy wearing sweaters, before I was hot all the time. I breath much quieter now it not embarrassing anymore. I love wearing my sons jeans.

I can pick up things off the floor without using my grabber. In fact, I can sit on the floor and then get up without help! My husband isn't afraid I will die of asphixiation during sex! I can sit in a booth at a restaurant! I don't use the electric cart at the Wal-mart. I hiked to the waterfall and back without getting out of breath. I weigh less than my "skinny" sister!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I can sit in a chair with arms on it. I can put on pantyhose without help and without a problem.

There are so many things I a thankful for in the 11 months since my surgery. Here's some of the highlights. Feeling a lot healthier and now medication free. A lot more self esteem... which is important for us single guys. Donating all those old clothes that don't fit anymore. 3 big trips to Goodwill felt great! Going shopping in a "normal" store in the mall. Being able to run 4-5 miles a day. This surgery has changed our lives for the better. No matter what other people say, only we can understand what we went through to get here. Good luck to everyone else in the new year. Joel Shanker 340 then/220 now/200 (or less) next year