Hello from a May 2007 girl!

Hi everyone, Congratulations and best wishes for the journey you are about to begin. I can't believe how quickly the past year has gone for me! I reached my goal in February, and have been maintaining or slightly below since then. The hardest part of this journey for me was about the first 10 weeks, including the 2 week liquid diet prior to surgery. THAT was by far the most difficult! I did not cheat, but I had food withdrawal, headaches and major irritability. But it was well worth it! And it served as a litmus test to see if I could have the strength to follow the plan after the surgery. I turned 49 in January, and I have to say the process was far easier than I ever expected. I did experience dizziness/light-headedness for about 3 months as my body was basically in a starvation mode. I no longer have the dizziness. I had no local support group, so I made OH my support group. People here are amazing, and will answer every question that might arise. One thing I did not know going into this.... you can, and will be able to eat regular food after a time. I was worried that I'd never be able to eat "normal" again. However, your "normal" does change. I now crave protein a lot. I love red meat, chicken and seafood. And I allow myself the occasional bite of cake, pie or cookies. I have had no complications, and I wish you all the same success. Good luck everyone!