Walk from Obesity...

Yesterday my surgeon's office sponsored the "Walk from Obesity" in Massachusetts. I live in NH, but my surgeon is in MA and they held the walk yesterday. A friend of mine who had surgery 4 months ago went with me. Stephanie Smiles and STYLZ were out of town and unable to participate, but hopefully they will get to next year. It was a very pleasant 2+ mile walk along the river on a wonderful flat paved walkway. Just to think that 2 years ago - no way would I have walked 2 miles, much less 2 blocks...but I did it easily - wasn't even tired or anything - just a nice enjoyable walk. I took my trusty little pedometer - which has become permanently glued to my side and really enjoyed the early morning walk. There was probably 60-70 walkers for this year and lots of enthusiasm. So now I am really ready for our MARCHer's challenge to walk across the country on paper during October. I hope you are all seriously thinking about participating. I went to my doctor on Friday for my 18 month check up and told them about the MARCHers challenge and they were excited for us. I hope you will get excited also! My 18 month blood work was amazing. It was absolutely perfect in every area and I was so excited. I had actually gained 2 pounds in 3 months, but I was afraid I had. But I am still thankful for the 145 pounds I have lost since my first consult. I had a nice visit with my nutritionist and we went over my plan which of course means cutting out those dang nuts and peanut butter I have been having too much of. And of course they suggested more exercise, but I told them about the pedometer and my goal to do the 10,000 steps and more a day and we think that will help alot. They did ask me to participate on a panel for the support group meeting for post-ops this coming Tuesday. They said I was a "role model"!!!!! - I think they meant for "old women" like myself who have undergone this surgery. I love my doctor's office and staff - they are really caring concerned individuals. So to say the least I am so thankful for my excellent health and I am going to work very hard to be at my goal by my 2 year check up in March 2008. Between my surgeon's office, my wonderful husband, and this wonderful support group of MARCHers - I am going to win this battle - and maintain it for the rest of my life! Thanks to all of you for being here for me. Hugs to all....Barbara

Barbara, So glad to hear about a good doctor's report. You are going to get to your goal. You were a good choice for a role model. You have done awsome, like the rest of us you aren't done yet. None of us are. Yesterday my wife and I went on a 2 mile fun walk for health day in our little town. I started off by walking a mile before we went then walked another 2 1/2 in the afternood. I walked a total of 35.5 miles last week. I'm gearing up for your big challenge next month. You didn't mention the casino. I always ask if people had fun or if they won? It sounded like maybe you were in the first group. Have a great week. Rick

Ahhh...the casino! We fall into group on - we had fun, deposited the agreed upon amount and returned home! But I did take some advantage of losing my money - walking around from slot machine to slot machine!!!! WOW - 35.5 miles in a week - that is wonderful. Glad you are going to help me walk across the country in October! Barb

I am so proud of you! Congrats on a great 18 month check up! You've done so well. And, you are a role model for anyone regardless of age. Thank you for continuing to motivate me on a daily basis. I'm so glad you are a MARCHer! Can't wait to see you guys on Saturday. Hugs, Stephanie P.S. How 'bout them Patriots?!?!

Go Pats! Hope your Boston tour was successful! See ya on Saturday! Barb