8 Month Post (A day late)

Hi Everyone, WOW!!!! What a journey this has been. Sometimes I just can't put it into words. This has truly been a remarkable ride so far and I look forward to what lies ahead of me. What I have learned in the last 8 month's is amazing. I have learned how to make healthy choices and stick with them. I have learned that I don't need or want junk in my trunk!!! What have I achieved since WLS? So much I am sure I will leave something out. I think the most important thing is self confidence and respect for myself. I have become a better person. Why? Because, I am a happier person. I am living and enjoying life, something I never did before. I can cross my legs; I can shop in the misses even the junior's sections. I simply fit in the crowd now, rather then stand out like a sore thumb. I can fit in a booth, fit in a plane seat. I don't have to struggle with the seatbelt. I can walk up flights of stairs and not think twice about it. I can get in a crowded elevator and fit. I can look people in the eyes now when speaking to them rather then hide my head in shame. I can run and I can laugh even at myself at times. I reached ONDERLAND. I reached the Century Club. And now I have about 20-30 lbs left to lose. Is this journey worth it? You betcha!!! I would have this surgery over and over again every day, every month just to feel the way I do now. Am I satisfied? To an extent, yes, I am but, I want to reach my goal and I'm almost there. Will I be satisfied then? I don't know. I often wonder what people do once they reach their goal and they are living life. I know we all start living life as the weight comes off but, a part of me gets sad when I know I am almost to goal because I fought for this surgery for 3 years and have dedicated myself to losing my weight. Sometimes I think what will I do once I'm at goal. I know it will all come to me in time and things will settle in. I just want to thank everyone that has supported me along the way. The TMB, LMB, April Surgery board and even the Main Board. I have made and meet some remarkable people through OH and I can honestly say they are true friends. We have all been given a chance to live a new life and I think it's a wonderful thing. I thank my family for their love and support throughout this journey. And my surgeon and his remarkable staff for cheering me on and supporting me, for always being there for me when I need them. And last but, certainly not least to the man up above. Without God none of this would have been possible. Wherever you are in your journey, pre-op, post-op, non-op, or at goal, I wish you only the best. Some of the greatest people here at OH have always inspired me and continue to do so. So, thank you, thank you, thank you. Gina 262/150/140(surgeon's goal)/125-130(my goal)

hi gina i too had surgery on 4/11/05 i am down 102 lbs. i started at 288 and now weigh 186. i am wearing a size lge on top and a 14 bottom. i already feel that i am a success, although i would like to drop 30 or 40 more pounds. i am very, very, happy with my results so far and feel i made the best decision to have WLS. I would do it again in a heartbeat. best wishes to all nadine

HI! I had surgery on April 27th so I have a couple of weeks 'til I',m at 8 moinths. I have lost 103 pounds and have basically stayed at that for a month. I am 6 pounds from goal and happy to be there. I am 5'9" and wearing a M on top and a 6/8 on the bottom. Now, all I need is a good man to share the rest of my life with! Judy