Update

Sorry I haven't been posting as much lately. My mom died very peacefully in her sleep last Thursday (while I was out giving blood), and I'm totally devastated. I've been training for a half-marathon, and I didn't want to let her down, so I kept running until I got the flu. So now I'm sick, sad, and temporarily not running (which makes me grumpy). And I forgot when my last period was, but knowing Aunt Flo, she'll want to get in on the party. On topic of WLS, I ordered the Power Crunch wafer cookie protein bars and they are incredibly good. Easy to eat and satisfy my sweet tooth. The peanut butter flavor wasn't peanutty enough for me (after a lifetime of Little Debbie Nutty Bars, lol) but the vanilla and the choc tasted great. If you are one of those who doesn't get full as easily any more, like me, you might want to graduate from saltines to Triscuits. The Reduced Fat ones taste the same as the regular, and they give lots of chewing satisfaction as well as giving me that good ole painfully full feeling from the early days. They don't wash on through as fast. Other than my aforementioned troubles, I feel pretty good. I (usually) have lots of energy and feel able to do most anything. I did somersaults and actually stood on my head when my daughter had a sleepover a couple of weeks ago. NO way I would have put 262 lbs of pressure on my neck and head! I still feel like I LOOK fat and dreadful. I think I have a small hernia (about egg-sized), which I found last night under the wrinkles and fat, and that makes me happy. The surgeon's office said it was easier to get the TT approved if there was a hernia repair at the same time. Life is so full of the sweetness and bitterness. My mother was diagnosed with lung cancer just before my surgery. Her health declined as mine improved dramatically. My father really blossomed as a caretaker, and their love got deeper and stronger. She and I were blessed to have a WONDERFUL relationship; I could tell her anything and really enjoyed talking with her. I will miss her so very much. Nevertheless, I will take the shortened time (as if I had a choice) because it was such GOOD time we had together. She did everything she could to be healthy-she ate right and exercised, worked hard at emotional well-being and peace with her fellow man. And she really LIVED her life, as fully as she could. Her death tells me that I must, absolutely MUST, use every moment I have, now that I'm liberated from my prison of fat, to really LIVE. Working towards health and longevity is important, but it must be balanced with really SAVORING life while it is happening. Hugs, Susan

thanks for the post..you are such an inspiration...i am sorry for your loss and will be thinking about you...have a good day and get better soon..i am starting my walking tomorrow with the hopes of working up to jogging and a marathon next year..well see..never ran before...take care susan!!!

May god bless you and keep you in your time of sorrow. Michele

Dear Susan, So sorry to hear about your loss. I knew you were going through a hard time with your mom's illness over these last few months, and was sending you little 'hang-in-there' wishes over the invisible support network. Isn't it surprising how, even when we're expecting the worst, it's still such a shock when it actually happens? If you don't mind this word of advice from someone who's been there: you need to prepare yourself for an extended period of weirdness before getting some emotional balance back. You could find yourself waking up in the middle of the night in tears, or waking up on Friday having no idea what you've been doing all week. Just keep talking about how you're feeling to everyone around you, and you'll get through fine. And if you keep on thinking about the wonderful relationship you shared with your mom, she'll keep on staying by your side and in your heart. Wishing you all the best in this sad time, Donna

Susan , I am terribly sorry for the loss of your mom . I know how it feels as I lost my dad 2 years ago and it still feels like yesterday .. It does get better but I think of him daily . Is so good to hear from you and that you are doing well. Please keep us posted on your progress .. and know you are in my thoughts and prayers you and your entire family .. Huggles , Natalie

Susan - Heart felt condolences to you and your family. Loosing a parent is so hard. But, you sound so much stronger than I was at your point. Even if it's not sudden it doesn't help that much. Reflect on the relationship you had with your Mom and extend that with others you love. Take care.

Susan, My deepest sypathy and prayers are with you and your family right now. Please take care of yourself. Brenda

Susan, Praying for peace for you during this difficult time. Your post about your mom and dad and your health was very moving. You have been blessed with a wonderful family. Congratulations on becoming a runner. I just can't seem to get there. I did walk the Houston Half Marathon last month but just can't imagine running or jogging it. Good luck in your training. I love the Power Crunch cookies too. It was great to find something sweet that tastes good and is good for me. Remember to take care of yourself. I know it's hard when there is so much on your heart and mind. Hugs to you, Melissa

Hi Susan, I'm so sorry to hear about your mom passing. This was a difficult post for me to finish. My mom has recently undergone tests to determine the cause of some physical problems. I can't imagine what my life would be like without her. I will say a prayer that you are able to remain strong in her absence and continue to do well. I'm glad to hear things are going so well with your journey. You appear to be doing just wonderfully. Keep up the great work! Christie