Happy Birthday to Me!

Hi Guys, Today is my third WLS Birthday, too! It seems like yesterday and then ages ago that I had gastric bypass! I have maintained my 120 pound weight loss and thank God every day for this life and this tool I have been given! My plastic surgery was done a year and a half ago and still looks really good, if I do say so myself!!!! My only regret is that I became an alcoholic after I cross addicted with food following WLS. What a shock. The shame, regret, lonliness and horror was almost as bad as being obese. But, I am glad to report that I have been in AA since December and remain sober, happy and recovering today. I only wish my doctor had prepared me for the possiblity of transferring addictions. The 12-step program has been remarkable for using not only for my wine addiction but also for food issues. The segment on the Oprah show in November really opened my eyes to just how prevalent this problem is with gastric bypass patients, even Carney Wilson! I wish everyone great success, happiness and sobriety ! Thank you for being there for me and supporting me in my time of great need. Me thinks me is better!! Hugs, Karen

Hi Karen; HAPPY ANNIVERSARY and Congratulations on your success!! I have heard of many people who have faced the problem of transfering addictions. A co-worker kicked the drug and alcohol habit and became an out of control gambler. It's a big problem and I congratulate you on your sobriety. Keep up the good work and stay here with us. Mike

Karen, Best wishes as the journey continues! Hugs, Mo

Karen, I've been worried about you! So glad for your post. You are one courageous cookie!!! Don't be a stranger, let's keep all of us intact and moving toward celebrating our 4th anniversary! Can you imagine how wonderful that will be??? Love, M.

Happy Happy Birthday!! You have done wonderful stuff Lady!! Keep it Up & Keep living Life!! Marilyn, the Bearlady

Karen - Happy belated anniversary and congratulations on getting to AA and confronting the problem you developed. I do think it's common to transfer addictions, unfortunately. Thankfully I've been in counseling for probably a year before surgery and ever since. So although things have changed for me, I've learned how to cope with some of these issues. Thank you so much for being open about this problem. Only with others sharing their problems like this will it enable others to learn from your hurdles. Some may even be able to avoid these issues because you shared. Dina