One Year Later ....

I had my follow-up appointment and when I saw my initial consultation photograph, I started to cry. I didn't allow myself to see many photographs that I was a part of, and I just never saw myself as being as big as I was. But what really got me was how miserable I looked. My hair was shaggy and unstyled, I was wearing unflattering dark clothing, and no make-up. I was smiling in the picture, but it was obvious to me (and to anyone else who saw it) that I was seriously unhappy. I didn't realize just how obvious it must have been. A year later, and nearly 130 lbs lighter .... I am wearing a size 10 (some 8's) .... I'm small and full of energy, and so happy. Yes, there are still a lot of difficulties -- we all face them. The thing is, though ... I now have the energy to do just that. I'm no longer a prisoner in my own body. My relationship with my husband has never been better. When I saw my 1 year photograph ... I saw an attractive woman with a genuine smile ... someone who was stylishly dressed from head to polished toe ... a woman who is looking forward to being an active participant in the rest of her life.

HI Traci, Congratulatoins! It is a bittersweet moment isn't it? It is so important to look back and remember where we came from, but so sad & difficult to face a times. You have come such a long way and accomplished so much, what a wonderful blessing. Wishing you continued success & happiness, Pam rny 5/13/04 268/155

Congratulations!!!!!! You have done a fantastic job!!! I had my surgery at Unity too, with Dr. Daniel Baker. My surgery date was about 3 weeks after yours. I felt the same way you did when I saw my pre op picture! The transformation is unreal! But one of the best things is my health is better than it has been in 25 years! I am down 102 pounds, but I still want to drop another 20. My weight loss has slowed down almost to a stand still these last few months. So I am really kicking up the exercise and watching what I am eating. Keep up the great work, you look wonderful! Teri Champlin, MN