3 yrs ago today... freedom began

3 yrs ago today at this time I was in Norwalk walking a labyrinth as I was venturing to the hospital for my surgery. I was filled with anticipation that finally after so many years of struggling with my extra weight that I could possibly have a chance at renewed health. As I walked into that labyrinth, I let go of all my burdens, I left them in the center. And as I walked out the labyrinth, I embraced the beginning of a new life. Since then my life has only improved each day. It has been hard work to get "here". And here is only what I have today. Each day, there is a plan to make the best food choices and give my body  movement through exercise. I have changed my thinking in monumental ways. Food no longer is the source that I use for stress relief. I have found a new freedom of spirit that will help me keep my body strong, lean (with all the glorious sagging skin!) and healthy. I am not the woman that I was. My husband is not the man he was. In the past 3 yrs, my hubby has lost 80lbs (not through surgery) and turned his life around as well. We are a healing family. Today he is a full time personal trainer. This all began when I began my own journey to have surgery. Progress. I am grateful for all the people I have met on the CT forum. T.  HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TOWANDA!

Congrats on your success and your family's success. It sounds like there is a lot of love to be had there. What a wonderful feeling. CONGRATS!!!! KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK!!!!!HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!!!

Thanks so much. It has been an interesting ride so far.  I look forward to even more growth as time goes by. T. 

Happy Anniversary! :) You are a constant source of inspiration for me and many others - thank you for giving so much of yourself as you found your healing path! May the road ahead be full of good health, love and much happiness!

Inspiring... hmmm. It is you and everybody else who inspire me to move to the next day, with dignity and compassion. Thanks for your kind words. T. 

T...Happy anniversary!!!  You surely have come a long way in three years!  I thank God for your success and ability to make me feel like such a lucky person because I got to meet you and be your friend! I'm glad that both of our hubbies lost so much weight, too.  We won't be widows any time soon (I hope!)

Have fun and keep doing what T does best...just be YOU! love, paula

Hey Paula... You are one "Hep" cat! What I love about you is your candor.... honesty and caring heart. You say it like it is. That I respect. And yes... no widows here from obesity. Don't know about you.. but my hubby is looking pretty darn good to me these days! T. 

Hi T - I can't believe it has been 3 years! A huge congrats on not only your weight loss accomplishments but for all you have done her for people on the boards. You were such a great friend and a wonderful source of inspiration when I had my surgery. I don't know what I would have done without you! I know you will continue on your successful path, I can't imagine anything but good things coming your way. You have the right mindset and take it a day at a time. I have learned so much from you. Great big hugs! Nancy K

How easy it was to encourage you, Nancy! You are a spirited woman who goes after what she wants. Hope to see you at the picnic! T.

My Dear, dear friend, As you mark this milestone in your life, I hope that you will always remember that there are people around you whenever you need us. I have been blessed to count you among my friends and I am so thankful for all the love and support you have shown to me throughout OUR journey. "Hi, my name is Sandy, and it's been 1,095 days since my bypass surgery" You have truly become a new, stronger,  more vibrant version of yourself.  Congratulations my dear. I hope that you'll reward yourself this weekend for all your hard work and your continued passion and drive towards achieving the rest of your goals. I love ya baby!! Bob(o)