Our story.....Pt. 2 (long)
Although I couldn't remember the exact date when I first met Tonya, I could never forget what I thought when I first saw her come into that support group meeting. Instantly I thought to myself,"Man, that is a beautiful lady there!" My next thought was that she was probably married and how lucky her husband must be.
I had only been living in WR for about 11 months, having moved there from a small town south of WR. I had no family and few friends in town, and was scared about undergoing this journey alone. Tonya's kindness amazed me somewhat, I wasn't used to a total stranger offering to be so helpful. I guess that should have been the first sign that Tonya was a special individual indeed.
We had plan to be WLS partners in the beginning, but my insurer was playing their games and unfortunately I got left behind. During this time, my friendship with Tonya began to grow and I felt that there wasn't anything I could not talk to her about concerning my obesity and the shame associated with it. I discussed issues with her that I couldn't bring myself to discuss with my own family. All this time, I never dreamed that love would grow from our friendship, but I knew that Tonya would be a part of my life, even if only as a really good friend. I had prayed to God, asking for someone to spend life with, but little did I know He already had.
When Tonya's surgery date drew near, I realized that my feelings for her were much deeper than I was willing to admit. I remember praying, asking God to watch over her and keep her safe and not let anything happen to her. Still, I wasn't ready to tell her my true feelings for fear of losing her. I had made that mistake before, and the rejection was very difficult to handle.
I would have given up on WLS if it hadn't been for Tonya giving me her "you are a child of God speech" and making me realize that I was worthy of good things and that I must press on. So, I renewed my fight for WLS. I also let Tonya know just how I felt about her and was surpised that she too was having stronger feelings for me as well. She told me about her letter to God, asking for someone to love and I told her about my prayers as well. We decided to start dating and grew even closer.
When my surgery date finally arrived I was so glad to have the woman I loved there with me. Her being there eliminated my fear, I knew in my heart, that God did not bring this special lady into my life for me not to make it through the surgery.
Now, Tonya is going to be my wife. I never in my wildest dreams thought I would find true love. In fact, I'm having to "eat crow' as they say. My friends are reminding of how I always said that I was never getting married and that it was okay with me to live alone. Well, God has control over our lives and He saw fit to open my eyes to the truth. My only sadness concerning my upcoming wedding to Tonya is that neither of my parents lived to see this day. It gives great comfort though, knowing that they will be there in spirit and in my heart.
To everyone here on the GA board that has given encouragement and support, I want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart. You guys seem more like family than friends.
Take care,
James
oh my goodness... now I am in tears.
What a wonderful, fun and informative evening I had tonight. Meeting a few of the people that let me into their lives every day on this board.
What a wonderful story you and Tonya have to tell for many, many years to come.
I know I am new here, and cannot really comprehend what weight loss surgery does to a persons life but y'all have been wonderful to me and I truly appreciate it. I guess when it comes to family... I am the 3rd cousin y'all never knew you had but theres an instant bond 
James, please know that your parents are watching over you and their love will always surround you. How pleased they must be to see Tonya in your life.
I wish you both the very best life has to offer.
your new friend,
Barb
James, please know that your parents are watching over you and their love will always surround you. How pleased they must be to see Tonya in your life.
I wish you both the very best life has to offer.
your new friend,
Barb 
Awwwww..........
Now if you and Tonya are gonna make me cry everytime I read one of y'alls posts, I'm not reading anymore of them. Y'all are a definite match made in heaven, and all I have for you both is my best wishes of a long and happy life together.
BTW James.... great taste in engagement rings... it is absolutely beautiful!!!!
Susan
Dear James and Tonya,
I, too, married my very best friend. We've been thru so much together-good and bad. He's always there to catch me when I'm falling...but he's also the first to give me the push I so often need. I love him more today than I thought possible.
I know you both will be so happy--I wish you all the best!!!
Hugs..
Michelle
Dee Dee 
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