Hello December 04 crew. I am Monica Bond. I started my journey at 330lbs with many health problems. I now weigh 165lbs, just 5 pounds from my own goal. I have had a wonderful journey....few food and pouch problems. My diabetes is controlled, my lipids are fine, my arthritic knees so much better, I can wipe my ass without contorting myself, tie my shoes, make love with abandon, play with my Gkids, flyfish again, I can breath better, off asthma meds, live in my RV and travel around the country, climb stairs, buy clothes at Walmart or Target and not pay a fortune for them like before. My pouch is well and I treat it well. I had a breast reduction, lift, ventral hernia repair, and panni removal on 9/25. The PS removed 12 lbs of skin. I am doing fabulously and I am thrilled with my new streamlined body. The pain caused by my ample boobs and huge hanging panni is going, going, gone. I can now wear a medium top and size 14 jeans. Not since early high school have I been this size and weight. I feel new and improved. I have taken back my life and I am living it fully. I would take this journey again in an instant. I am healthier, happier, sexier, and so thankful each day. Monica

Hello missy, thanks for responding. I don't mind if you put your 2 cents in because I totally understand what you are saying about waiting. I've also heard that the second time around is dangerous. My doctor told me all about the risk. It will be 2 years for me next month. Everything has been sent in to my insurance company and I guess all I have to do now is wait and see what happens. I have also had a second opinion and both doctors have said the same thing about the revision. I'm so disappointed in my very slow weight loss that I have lost my appetite and I'm not eating much, but I'm still drinking liquids. I will keep in touch and let you know if I get the approval. Take good care. Y

I have not been here for a while since this board is so dead. I wanted to have all of us remembered during this time. Whether you are pre op or post op PLEASE list your name below and a breif synopsis of how your journey has been for you...ie weight loss, weight gain, reconstructive surgery, etc. Cogratulations to all of us in advance. Missy~ I will be 2 years out on 12/29 and have lost 220 lbs with a weight gain of 3-5 lbs...I have had a panniculectomy on 09/13 and this is where I had the weight gain...Arrrrg! I am fighting everyday to eat healthy and stay away from my carbs. I am a Pacific Bariatric Support Group Facilitator in Corona, Ca. This really helps me stay motivated and keeps me accountable. I have just started back on my exercise regemin since my TT...due to a severe infection after the removal of one of my tubes. I have just been turned dow by kaiser for my breast lift...I was devestated and depressed at the same time. Life will go on...I did not have this weight loss surgery only to regain my weight back ...but to continue on the path of a new way of lifestyle changes. I realize it is so easy for our old eating habbits to come back and haunt us...I know we will slip up once in a while...but getting right back on track will make up all the difference and also seeking the extra help to battle any past emotional behavoral problems that may have existed or still do. Good luck to everyone and I pray that we all continue to succeed in our weightloss journies. Missy~~~

Congrats on getting your TT scheduled. Only one month away. WOW. I'll keep you in my thoughts and prayers on that date. I need a TT pretty badly, but short of winning a lottery, I don't think it will happen. Insurance doesn't cover that up here in Canada. I could have a pannilectomy, but it really won't help my problem area. Best wishes for a very successful surgery. Karen G

H Karen-- I have that last 16 lbs too. I'm REALLY slow now. I'm ready to really enjoy the holidays BUT>....... I have my TT on DEc 13th and may not be up to partying. I guess it will be like a party to get this loose skin taken away. Have a GREAT December!!!!!! Hugs, Cheri