Hi all! I had surgery on 6/28/04 and my scales say I am down 38 pounds!!!! I am so tickled! Started out in size 24/26 and now in size 18/20. I think Ive hit one of those dreaded plateaus though. Oh well, I know it just takes time. Congrats to all you LOSERS!!!!!!! Steph

Thanks to all of you who have responded to this post. I think it's a good idea to check in on each other's progress from time to time just to show that we're all at about the same place. I too was becoming discouraged when I hit my first plateau a couple of weeks ago, but was reminded by others on this site that it was normal, to increase my protein intake (which did work by the way...i'm now down to 280), and increase my water/fluid intake. Good luck to all you "June Bugs"...I'm proud of us all. Faye

At first, I would just try to walk...1/3 mile, 2/3 mile, 1 mile. Then it got H-O-T!!! As I am sure most of you would agree, I hate the heat. So, I got some waterproof bandages and went swimming in my apartment complex pool! I usually spend 1-1 1/2 hours in the pool a day. I bought a swimming workout set whi*****luded weights, a belt (which I don't fit into yet) and a video. I take my "noodle" and my weights to the pool and do all sorts of weight training. (Work legs with noodle and arms with weights) I do pool situps, pushups and stretches. I tread water for a long time then I do laps running back and forth across the pool. (varying styles of movement). I end with some laps (freestyle and backstroke. I feel great since I started this regiment!!!! I don't have an excuse (heat) not to work out. I also just purchased a pilates ball/video,5lb. weight and a pilates ring to tone my "butt-cheek" thighs. Hope this helps!!! Kelly Edwards

Congratulations to you for SAVING YOUR LIFE!!! Let us know your progress!!!

I was wondering how much protein you are getting. I had my surgery on 6-30 and actually started to plateau. Upon further inspection, I realized I was only getting about 30 oz. of protein a day. Once I increased my protein tot he recommended 60, the weight started to come off again. I also had to increase my water (fluids). I am only drinking about 36-50 oz. a day. Since we basically pee out our fat, drinking water is key. Other than that, I would check with the doc if you are having pain and can't go to the bathroom. Something may be blocked...Better safe than sorry. Hope that helps!