From Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary....... Support Group: a group of people with common experiences and concerns who provide emotional and moral support for one another. Yup guys and gals, we qualify! Love and Hugs Michelle

Hey Stacy.... Thanks for creating activity on the board. I've missed the free flow of ideas and opinions on the board. Your post got the juices flowing... and I love the activity on the board. We may not agree, but we can agree to disagree and keep talking. The free flow of communication is wonderful!!! Denise

Good morning, I have nothing to post either, my stomach is very quesy and food does not sound good at this point! But wanted to say Hi and keep up the great work ladies!!! Michelle

Nancy..... I couldn't agree more with what you say. I think it is very important to remember that all of us in the beginning phases of our surgery were given different food lists to go off of as well. Pasta was on my food list. My doctor's focus was not you can't have this, it's have your protein first and if there's room have a bite or two of something else. This to is my support group and I have to come out and say if you don't like what we are posting about.........ignore it and move along. I honestly feel that when people come here and tell us we are all wrong that is the same dang judgment WE ALL faced as obese people. I was tired of it then, and I'm tired of it now. I have never been a smoker or a drinker but do I judge those that are? No. But am a food addict and as with any addict you always will be. Maybe my demons caught up with me quicker than some, so be it. I'm doing my best to battle them. But don't sit there and judge me, you have no right! This board is for support........not judgment. Michelle

Unfortunately, it's not really as simple as making a plan and doing it. At least, not for me. Over the past two years, I've come to realize that my issues with food run very deep. In all honesty, I know I need a therapist to work through my issues...there really is no other way for me to battle the demons. When I was given my "tool," I was told the average weight loss was 65%. I have reached that average. My surgeon told me I should reach 200 lbs. I am nearly there. I was told that weight loss would cure my sleep apnea and high blood pressure. Those are gone. My ultimate goal is to reach a healthy BMI, and I may struggle for years to get there, if I EVER get there. My success is not measured on whether or not I can wear a bikini. It's about how I feel, and I feel pretty gosh darn good! Cheers! Pamela -134