My two year update - nothing dramtic

March 20, 2008 Today it has been two years since I had this life saving, life changing surgery. The last year has been nothing like the first year at all. This year has ben all about maintenance. Trying to maintain the loss I achieved during the first year through monitoring my food intake and balancing it with the amount of physical activity needed to offset the calories consumed. I have managed to remain within 10 pounds of my lowest weight of 174 pounds. I currently weight 181 pounds, but I would like to get back down to the 175 pound range. I can pretty much eat anything I want with little or no consequences. I still weigh every day so that I am not suddenly surprised by a major weight gain. There has been a time when I gained about 5 pounds in two weeks and I decided I needed to get things under control so I went through the 5 day pouch test diet. It worked well for me. I lost 8 pounds in the five days and it put me back on track. I'm glad to know I can resort to that short term diet in the future if needed. I have had no new health concerns during the last year and continue to have endless energy. Recently I went on a zip line adventure. I would never have even considered something like this 2 years ago. I have the prospect of a bright future that isn't limited by the amount of physical activity I can endure. I still need to continue to work on my perception of myself. I still feel like a large person, but the beauty is that while my head thinks I'm big, I fit in a medium size shirt, so I guess I must not be that big after all. I very rarely get compliments on my dramatic weight loss. I guess others are just getting used to the new me and no longer are amazed with the distance I have traveled. Every so often I will run into someone that I haven't seen in years and they are amazed with my physical appearance. That always brings a smile to my face. I look forward to the future and all that it has to offer My current weight is 181 pounds. I will have my 2 year checkup in a few weeks and I will see what my blood tests show, but I do not anticipate any problems. I can't say how lucky I feel to have had this opportunity to change my life. I am grateful for all of the support I have received through this process. Life is great, Rick P.S. Surgery twin (Darlene) I hope you check in on our day. I have missed you on here.

Happy Surgiversary, Rick! Guess what? You are a regular, normal, medium sized man! Yup, that's right. Normal and medium. Thank you for these last two years of support and for sharing your journey with us. You've accomplished many things and it's great that you can make plans for new adventures without thinking about your size! I'm so proud of you! Hugs, Stephanie P.S. I believe we need a new picture!

Stephanie, Thank you for your kind words. I probably should include a new picture, but it's back to that head thing again. I don't think I look like my picture. I guess Kodak can't be wrong. Have a great day, Rick

Yes, update that picture already! Congratulations on a great 2nd year!

Thanks, Rebeka

You have done remarkable and have been such an inspiration to all of us. I am so thankful you joined the MARCHer family and we can lay claim to you! I love the zip line story...what an accomplishment! Thanks again for being here for all of us and congratulations on a "job well done"!!! Barbara

Barbara, Thank you for your kind words. I am most fortunate to be a "Marcher". Have a great weekend and Happy Easter. Rick

Hi Rick, it was my 2 year anniversary too, "can't believe it passed me by" I wish I can say it's been as good for me as it was for you," but "I'm hangin in there." Still struggling, but one thing I have to say "I'm way more happier now than 2 years ago." Anyways, "Happy Anniversay to us both"

Di De, Happiness is a great reward. Just keep plugging along and continue to be happy with your progress and your new life. Take care, Rick

Congratulations Ric! I am just reading your post because I haven't had a chance to get on the boards in a long time. I hope to be able to check in more frequently. Maintenance is hard. But I am learning things about myself too. One thing I have learned is that I do NOT want to every stop being diligent with watching everything I eat, drink, and do. I slacked off for a couple of months, not weighing every day and not making wise food choices and gained 10 lbs. Now I am back in control and feeling like I will take off all 10lbs and maybe a few more. (2 are already gone!) anyway, Glad to hear you are doing so well. I too am grateful for this surgery and all of my support peeps out there! Hugs, Robin