What a difference...

Good Morning to all of my wonderful and supportive friends,
One year ago today my daughter and I had a surgery that would change our lives forever.  One of my daughter's friends had WLS and showed off pictures of her new body. My daughter KT was impressed by the change and immediately began to research weight loss surgery. She told me about it and I really did not pay much attention, but her persistence paid off. We attended the seminar together and decided to take the plunge. Our insurance approve the surgery but we were not ready. At the time we had Tri-Care standard and that meant coming up with several thousand dollars for our co-pay.  I called Tri-Care trying to delay the approval date so I would have time to grow that co-pay amount on the money tree in my back yard. The attendant suggested we change to Tri-Care Prime and I our co-pay would only be $11.00 per day for the 3 day stay.  I could handle $66.00 without a problem. As it turns out we didn't even need to pay that.  You all know I am a minister and truly believe that my steps are ordered by God. He was ordering my steps to a healthy usable vessel for his service.
The morning of my surgery I did not know how I was going to give up the things I loved so much you know pound cake, not yo mama's banana pudding, hot wings from Dodge's,and Krispy Kreme just to name a few. To be honest I have not missed any of those things. Did I take a bite of pound cake yep, and some banana pudding too, but I have not craved those things.
I begin this journey at 280 lbs wearing a size 24-26, today I weigh 157 and wear size 8-10.  My goal is 150 but the Doctor said if I don't lose another pound I will be fine. I am no longer considered a diabetic, no insulin no oral medication at all. I have been approved for my tummy tuck and my PCP and physical therapist are recommending the arms and boobs be done to relieve the back pain. 
My daughter's journey has kept me on my knees a lot. She had several complications along the way, but none of them put the fire of desire out in her. In spite of all the illness and weaken body she is still making progress. She started at 312 lbs wearing 28-30 and some 32's. Today she weighs 220 lbs and wears 12-14.
I thank God for showing me a way to be healthy. I also thank God for a very supportive group of friends. Thanks for allowing me to be a part of your journey.
All I can say is Wow, what a difference a year makes.

Mama Peaches you are an inspiration to me!  I started my journey in June and I have lost 12 lbs so far.

I started at 227 lbs but I have several co-morbities.  Diabetes, high blood pressure, etc.  I am totally changing the way I look at eating and life.  I hope that I am as successful as you are.

Please keep me in your prayers.

Linda

The night before my surgery I was on 80 units of Lantus at night. a sliding scale of Novolog three times a day plus oral meds twice a day for diabetes. I took three different medications for blood pressure and a thyroid pill. When I went to the base for my monthly refills they put my medications in a shopping bag. Today I take nothing at all for diabetes and scored a perfect 5 on the glucose blood test. I take two meds for blood pressure and my pressure is great. I still take the thyroid meds. I know you will be successful on your journey. Just remember we did not gain the weight overnight so we won't loose it overnight, but we will loose it. Malvern is not that far from Hot Springs, I may come visit you. LOL

You have done awesome!  My yearly checkup isn't until the 29th, and I've not discussed goal weight with Dr. Baker yet, but plan on it.  I've gone by those lovely height/weight charts and put mine at 145- to be under that 20BMI mark- but I know if I got to 175 and never lost a lb I'd be happy.  I'm in a 16 pant and 14/16 top- the size I was as a junior in high school- I love it!

Blessed is exactly what we are!!

Doesn't it feel good, real good?

Congrats on a great year, Mama.   You are an inspiration to all of us.  Now, we need to figure out how to get you to one of our Little Rock meetings so we can all meet you in person. 

I have actually attended one meeting. It was during one of KT's hospital stays. My problem now is a babysitter. I now have my 4 yr old grandson and he is a handful. He makes me understand why God don't let old women have babies. LOL  I do promise to come real soon.

congrats Mama....you are an amazing person and have come a long way in this life long journey...you look FANTABULOUS!!! 

keep up the good work........

your beautiful!!!
Tammy