Okay, I'm new to these postings, so please forgive my ignorance. I had surgery just over 11 months ago, I have currently lost 126 pounds and still losing. I haven't been able to attend the support groups and have limited contact at NMH as I was referred by my HMO out of network. My question (actually a couple) is one, image, I am having image issues and feeling torn because in I am finding it difficult buying "smaller" clothes. I feel great and don't even remember the last time I was able to move as well as I now do, and do NOT regret having this surgery. I am struggling with being perceived as "small", don't want to be thin, just healthy! And it seems wrong to buy clothes in an XL. Can anyone help? Also, I am curious how others experience has been with pursuing the tummy tuck, breast reduction, thighs, pannus surgery. I have plans to start this when I hit around 195/200 and am not sure what all information I should go to my MD with armed with to give me the best possible chance of approval. Any support and help I could get would be much appreciated. I have very little contact with others who have had this surgery and have a difficult time talking to my husband about my feelings with it all. Thank you. Beverly

I graduated in 1978 and have lived in the same state and county (within 20 miles of where I attended grade school through high school) other than 1 year when my husband and I moved to Houston with his job (that was in 1981).

Okay, so what year did you graduate High School and do you still live in the same state you graduated from? I graduated in 1984 from Tacoma, WA. I now live in Anchorage, AK

Okay, I ran out of time yesterday to answer my own question! Anyway, to keep my weight off I will: 1. Weigh myself twice a week to always know where I'm at. If I get out of my range (Once at goal I'm setting a 5 lb. range to keep myself within) I will make myself go on strictly protein and water days until I'm back in range. 2. Exercise....I really enjoy a variety of activites, but have a hard time making them a regular part of my schedule. I've been working hard at finding different people to do different things with...that helps! 3. Allow myself a bite or two of "treats", but then walk away from them. I am already finding that I "forget" about food WAY easier than I ever did before (it used to call me from the other room!). The other day I discovered some sugar free chocolate covered peanuts I bought in mid June. They were great, but I apparently had a handful of them and forgot all about them!! The "old Kathy" could NEVER have done that! They wouldn't have lasted a day, let alone 3 months!! 4. Keep looking at those I know who have gained their weight back and remind myself that could happen to me if I don't keep working my program every single day! Kathy 294/160/155 (5 lbs. to goal!!)

Hi Kathy, Good question. I plan on making sure I continue to drink water - can't eat as much if I'm drinking! Make sure I take all supplements and exercise. Hopefully that will keep me on track. Thanks. Judy 251/143/?