Congrads - I'm 1 year today also - I'm down 115 pounds - still 40 to go - but I have been fighting the carb battle - plus my exercise is always a little lacking... It's been an amazing journey - congrads again...

Hi everyone: This is my first visit to the July 2002 message board. Congrats to all of you on such great successes! I started at 298 and am currently at 165. I wouldn't mind losing another 10lbs. but also wouldn't mind maintaining what I'm at. When I eventually get a tummy tuck and brachioplasty I'm sure I'll lose another 5-10 lbs. in excess skin alone. I've gone from a 26 top to a 14. From a 24 pants to a 12. Regretfully the last 10 or 15 lbs. I lost were in the breasts So those went from a tight 48DD to a saggy, deformed looking 38C. I had lap RNY on July 3, 2002. My bypass surgeon got to see me just about one year later on June 30, 2003, for lap gallbladder removal. Recovery from that was a breeze. What a relief to get rid of that thing! A couple of nasty gallbladder attacks and you will definitely want to donate yours! Some people are talking about extra attention from others. I'm married, happy for the most part. In addition to men in general being more friendly, I've noticed my husband pays more attention to the clothes I buy and wear now...doesn't want me wearing anything too slinky. Although he likes seeing ladies dressed like hookers I guess it's different when it's his wife. He says he knows what pigs men are, he is one himself. At least at he's honest! He has loved me through thick & thick and has been incredibly supportive throughout this process, going to meetings, etc. It really does help to have someone in your corner, loving you unconditionally. I started a local support group 3 months ago since my surgeon's group is over an hour away and lots of us live in this area. It helps keep me honest, I think. It also helps us to help each other. Sometimes hearing the live person, seeing the face and not just reading the words online, helps to remember how painful it was in the beginning. (we welcome pre-ops at our group as well). We cannot ever forget where we have come from!!! Ever! Congrats again to all of you and I wish you continued success! Regards, Anna Luttrell La Salle, IL LAP RNY 7/3/02 Dr. J. Stephen Marshall Peoria Surgical Group

I am thrilled with my 166 pound loss, as of this morning. I still have 25 to go, but I am a new person, with a new outlook on life. Many thanks to my lifesaving Dr. Elliot Goodman, and many blessings to us all!

I am one year post-op on July 26th, and have lost 120lbs!. Hope you are all feeling good. Has anyone else's scale been stuck on the same number for a long time? I have been stuck at 172lbs for 4 months or so now . I have been able to eat almost anything but find that I don't get in very many meals a day. I well once again try to up my protein and exercise. I feel good about my weight loss but am a size 12-14 and would rather be a 9. Has anyone else experienced this? Do I have a chance to loose more now that I have been this weight for so long? Any other suggestions? God Bless you, Sherry

You've been through a lot (just read your profile) and am glad to hear thats all behind you...just like those unwanted pounds..LOL You look fantastic!!