Wow. This forum is great!  I did not know it existed until recently, and I am so glad I found it.  It has been four years this last August since I had Gastric Bypass surgery.  I lost 126 pounds and have kept it off except for 15 pounds that I gained at the beginning of the year because I was no****ching what I ate, and I had fallen off the wagon with my excersise.  My doctor told me this might happen, so I started being more vigilant with what I ate by starting on the South Beach Diet, which is pretty much the way we are supposed to eat after this type of surgery anyway.  Low carb, low sugar, high in protein, and small portions thrughout the day.  Also,  I began a weight training program that helped me loose eight of those pounds, plus added definition to my body.  I cannot believe it is me I am looking at when I stare in the mirror, and I was so happy to close my accounts at the plus size stores.  I realize that I will forever have to keep an eye on my weight, because I never want to get back to how I was before the surgery, which to me is by far the best thing I ever did.  I will always be grateful for the doctor who performed this surgery, and to my family and friends for their help and encouragement.   Now I find this forum full of people that are going through or have been through the same experiences.  Thanks so much, and hope I can help in some way, also.  

Robert,

Congratulations!  Sorry I didn't post a response sooner.  I hardly ever get a change to get on line anymore.  I am so happy for your success.  It is also nice to know someone understands the daily struggles and devotion required to stay successful.   I would really be interested in how you are doing and if you have had any challenges.

Would love to hear from you, if you care to respond.   Hope you have a great day!

Patty M.

4 years out and still going strong!  I hit my weight loss goal within 10 months of having surgery and have been holding strong ever since.  Believe me its not an easy job.  The weight is still a constant battle, but qat least i'm not 125 lbs heavier still trying to lose the weight.  I'd still do the whole thing all over again, and still only go through Dr. Blackstone.  She is the only sane Dr. and has the best program going out there for everyone.  good ouck and keep up the good work. 

Happy birthday and hugs to you. You are so young, 41, many happy years and events to you. I just happened on this site after being away for a long time and it is so warm and friendly. I forgot how supportive some people can be. I regained 20 pounds and was beating myself up but after reading posts here I decided to eat according to pouch rules again. I went from 246 to 147 and now 157 but am going to get real again.

Just wanted to thank everybody who has supported and loved me through the past four years. I must admit the first year was not easy. However I would do it again in a heartbeat. I started at 221lbs, and have pretty much leveled off at 130. I allow myself a margin between 129 - 134. It just seems to fit for my frame. I am 5'3". I am still at awe everytime I go shopping for new clothes. I still feel "heavy" and can't believe when I slip on a size 4 pant and they fit (comfortably!). I can't seem to embrace my new size and am dumb founded when people call me tiny or puny. I'm not saying I don't love it, I just have to look around to see who they are talking about. Anyway, I try to stay on track with my diet. I have an Unjury protein shake every single morning, and I believe that is one of the best things I do for myself. I am not a fanatic about journaling or tracking my food. However, after 4 years, I pretty much know when I need to "watch it". I usually "graze" throughout the day. I keep a supply of peanutbutter filled pretzels, dark chocolate/almond Hershey Nuggets, lowfat cheeze sticks and Triscuits on hand at all times. It still amazes me at how little it takes to feel full. Stopping when I feel full is essential to maintaining my weight. But eating a little bit every few hours keeps me satisfied and I can still enjoy regular meal times. I wish everyone who has embarked on this weight loss journey all the best, and to remember what a wonderful source of encouragement, support and information this website is. It has been a tremendous tool for me in many ways and am very happy to have it literally at my fingertips. THANK YOU ALL!! P. Mullen