I have been scared for a while now. You might remember that my husband and son were deployed to Qatar in the middle east, and I was scared that I would comfort myself with food, now that I can eat. I only lost 1# last month, but I was traveling alot and didn't exercise much. Now on top of that the holidays....I cheated so much the other day and ate this homemade toffee at our office party (and much more). I exercised longer and didn't gain, but I really am focusing on regular exercise, because for those two weeks that I travelled and didn't exercise I actually gained! I am focusing on exercise and don't sit by the food, it is torture....

Thanks for sharing the information about how common the gallstones. I appreciate it. What were your signs and symptoms?

HI WHOOPI! You are doing marvelous! I feel good too. I have not lost any weight in a few weeks but I am o.k. with that. Atleast I am not gaining. My Dr. wants me to lose another 35 pounds. I can handle that. That is better than needing to lose 200 pounds. I started at about 355 and now I am at 187-190... I have been fluctuating... but Aunt Flow started today so hopefully it will go down again. I exercise 3-4Xs a week. I feel great. Yard work is fun now... not just a chore. I feel like cleaning the house. I love to shop. Walking around the mall is no longer torture for me. It use to tire me out just to go to the grocery store. I can't believe how bad it was. Now life is great... life is worth living... I am so thankful I decided to have this surgery. You have a Merry Christmas & New Year too! So far I have not let the Holidays get to me! I stay away from the break room at work and just don't buy the yummy junk at the stores. I know I can do this! Have a wonderful weekend! MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYBODY! ~Jennifer Wright~

Hi Jennifer - I know this isn't unusual for us, but it's a bummer having to go through another surgery! I'll be thinking of you and saying a prayer for you. In the meantime, have a very happy and safe holiday season! Denise

As of today I am 150 pounds down & I can't believe it. I had my surgery November 15th 2004. My highest weight was 328. The day of my surgery I weighed 300. Today I weigh 178 & still going 130 - 140 is my goal.....woohoo!!!!! This wonderful "TOOL" is definately working well for me. Having this surgery was the best gift I could ever have given myself. Living life to the fullest is so wonderful now. Thank GOD for Dr. Genaw working his majic. I hope everone has a wonderful Christmas & a Happy New Year. I must say I'm so proud of each & every one of you. Keep working this "TOOL" that you have. Never give up or never give in YOU CAN DO THIS. Enjoy every WOW moment that you have you deserve it. Love to all & Bigs Hugs too you. Love Always Whoopi xoxoxoxoxoxoxox