I realize that over 2 months have passed since you posted your message on the board. I haven't been on this site since November 2002 and at that point I was searching (both inside myself and outside for a doctor to have the surgery). During my search, I found many obstacles and then out of the clear blue I got a call from UTSouthwestern in Dallas (when I had inquired about surgery in November I was told it would be December of 2003 before I could get an initial consult). They were calling me because on the paper work I had filled out, I needed to loose so much (top weight was 485) that I guess they just moved me up. My consult was December 6, 2002 and I could have had the surgery in February of 2003, but had to set the date for May 19, 2003 because of some commitments I had made. Had the surgery -- no real problems except I still get really nauseated. I have lost 124 as of January 7, 2004 (only weigh once a week). But at about the time you posted your "need encouragement " e-mail, I too was feeling depressed and like I was a failure and all that. I wasn't losing as fast as I thought I should or even as my Dr. thought I should. I had suffered several emotional set backs (the biggest being that my husband of 17 years decided he wanted a divorce - Great timing Huh?) I figured that was why I wasn't losing as fast. But just a few weeks ago, something seemed to have "Jump Started" my metabolism (wish I could say it was because of all the exercise I was doing but that would not be true) and the weight has started dropping at an acceptable rate. Anyway, when I was looking over the site tonight, I felt compelled to write you. Keep that chin up and hopefully all is going well for you now. Martha Downey

I'm 7 1/2 months out ... and I've lost 96 pounds since surgery and 12 more just prior for a grand total (which I am DEFINATELY COUNTING IT ALL) of 108 pounds!!! I am about 16 pounds from goal.

I had surgery on May 6th. I have lost 109 lbs. From 375 to 266. I feel so much better. From size 32 to a loose 24. I still have trouble with exercising.

Congratulations Jenifer that is a wonderful loss!! Love the excitement!!! Best wishes on your continued success.

Happy New Year to all!! Surgery date May 27, 2003, I am down from 320 to 200 (5'10") in 7 mths. From a size 28 to a 18. I have lost over 6' of fat. And the best part is my cholesterol is down from 282 to 143.