Hi, I haven't looked into the mirror for years until recently. I'm down to 132 lbs. and have started looking -- wow, what a difference! I have had blinders on for the past 30 years with myself and everone else. I do notice that I am shyer than I thought I was and am getting a lot of attention that I feel ambivalent about. I sort of still think, "Why didn't these people talk to me before?" I see how other people look, as well as myself. It is still difficult for me to look in the mirror but it's getting easier. One thing that I do notice is how many unhealthy looking people are out there in the world and how very lucky I am to have had this change of lifestyle. This new life is a challenging one -- lots more to do, but lots more energy to do it with. I have gone back to work and exercise every day. I also have a good appetite (can eat anything except chicken) so I have to work out a lot, but I still only eat a small portion (I graze a lot at night but on good foods). I have also taken up knitting. I am a much happier person now and the depression and anxiety I felt before has gone away (hopefully never to return). Keep up the good work -- we'll get used to everything. Janet

Hello, I had my surgery on 12/20/05 with a starting weight of 279, wearing size 24/26 clothing. As of this morning I weigh 142 for a total loss of 137 pounds. I am currently wearing anywheres from a size 4's to 6's in pants and tops. I continue to lift weights and do the elliptical/stairmaster 3-5x per week. The weight loss has really been slow to non existent the last few weeks. I yo yo the same two pounds. While I am very satisfied with my loss I would still like to lose around 10 pounds. I will have my 10 month anniversary appointment with my surgeon on 10/16. I am going to broach the subject of what/if any? plastic surgery we can get insurance to pay for. If I am eligible for plastics I think my clothing would fit/look better. My thighs and belly resemble a certain male body part that resides south of the boarder or in more polite terms I resemble a California Raisin. Anybody else have this problem? My upper arms are also an issue. I had a tank top on the other day and raised my arm. My son said, Geesh mom shave those hairy things. I explained to him that it was only wrinkly, crinkly skin not hair. Kind of funny but sad at the same time. I am so grateful for the surgery and all of the positive changes that have occured in my life and for all the support on this board. Thanks, Paula Tovar 279/142 12/20/05

Thank you so much for posting this.. I am going to make my husband read it so that I can get the heat turned up in this cold little house of mine. We're supposed to get our 1st frost tonight too.. but I'm all set with my new flannel sheets.. ummmm!! thanks again April R

My tail bone hurt so bad I wouldn't even sit if there were no pillows. I had to buy a stadium chair. Couldn't sit on the bleechers anymore.

OK Chocolate CHILD you asked all these questions.....what about YOU?????? I have been having so much shoulder pain. They moved me from Oct 16 to Dec 6. I know old age has brought about a change. When I was in my 20's and full of diet pills I couldn't wait to show off my new body. MUST HAVE BEEN THE PILLS Now I wear my clothes until they are falling off of me so bad. Its like I really don't want any one to see how much weight I have lost. About 135lbs. I slowed my weight lost down because of the surgery because of the healing process. Now I am trying to lose again. I will stop trying right at turkey day. At least I know no pecan pies for me. I still don't exercise. But man am I moving. Remember I was the wheel chair, walker, cane person. I even go to my Godson's football games and walk up into the stands. I use a stadium chair. Ain't no cushion back there any more. I am pinching off of sweets now. But I am ok with half a cookie instead of a 2lb bag of Chip Ahoys. My mental state is ok. I think because I have been through so many bone surgeries this is a little easier for me than learning how to walk again.