1 Year Anniv Thoughts

I'm going to try and not ramble too badly on this. First of all, I want to genuinely thank everyone on this board for just "being there" through this incredible journey. I may not have responded to your particular post, but sometimes just reading them helps. I've been somewhat down on my self lately because of the "slacking" I've been doing. But you know what? Without this miraculous tool that I've been given I would never have lost the weight. I started this journey in a tight 24/26. In my head I still feel like the fat girl, but when I look in the mirror I'm amazed. I went to put on a pair of jean shorts the other day and thought there was no way I would get my big butt in them -- they fit fine (size 12). To all the newbies - hang in there and don't get discouraged. Any test or hoop you have to jump through before surgery is worth it. (They found a tumor on my kidney that thank God was benign when I had my ultrasound). Eventually they thought it would be cancerous and I would never have known if it weren't for my dr's thorough testing. And follow the dr's rules -- they know what they're talking about. I know that exercise and positive thinking (and eating) are the keys to success. I'm disappointed I didn't make my goal by my anniversary, but I've come so far ~~ and besides they're only numbers. I no longer am "weighted" (pun intended) down with the extra weight and the diabetes and high cholestrol problems. I can now cross my legs with ease, have been rollerskating, and bought new leathers to ride my motorcycle. It's been a wonderful year! Bless everyone and thanks again for your support. Janie Lap RNY 4/14/2004 272/160/145?

Janie.... First of all, I want to tell you how wonderful it was *running into* you that day at Red Lobster... and I was glad you recognized me.. and were willing to introduce yourself to me, that was wonderful. You are an inspiration to me, and to others I am sure. You have done so well for yourself in losing the weight, and I know inside you cant hardly believe how good your body feels. I bet it has been a wonderful year for you. I will be coming up to my second anniversary here next month, and I can not hardly believe it. When I look into the mirror I do everything I can to tell myself that the skin will go away and to remember how big I was before. Somedays are easier then others though, and Iam sure you can relate to that. You ARE beautiful, you have a great looking son, who will be a great kid someday (thanks to a good mom who shows him love and support, and also shows him that everyone is DIFFERENT) I feel that all of our children are lucky to have had parents that were larger , or different, because they know that ppl come in all shapes and sizes and colors, and to be more respectful and loving. At least thats what I *hope* anyhow! So.. be glad you have made it this year, think about where you would be if you wouldnt have had this surgery and been given this chance.. And I will do the same, today and always, just for you ! Remember where we could be, and how lucky we all are to be where we are now! Sending big hugs Judi 365. now 198. hopefully someday? 165?

Judi - you have done great yourself. Congrats on the upcoming wedding. Did you ever think you'd be where you are now!!! You're right about the kids. They need to learn that all people are different, and that's okay. Danny has been overweight the last couple years and is now "growing" out of it. He feels much better about himself and, because of watching me, is making better choices about his food and snacks. We are lucky (and blessed) and we should remember that every day!! Hugs. Janie

Hey - look at you!!! Celebrating your one year anniversary! I cannot wait until I am there. Please try not to be hard on yourself chica! Seriously look at what and who you were a year and a half ago and just think - how far have you come? It's mind blowing!!! You just keep living your healthy life and try to think of those who cannot have surgery done for one reason or another. You have been blessed with a wonderful second chance at life and you're doing it well!!! I'm so very proud of you!!! Hugs, Jen

Thanks Jen. I just hope I can be somewhat of an inspiration to you "newbies" out there. I know sometimes those of us that are further out can sound harsh when giving advice, and believe me we don't mean to. We just want to share our "wisdom" and I think on some levels (at least for me) we can be somewhat jealous. When you are just fresh out of surgery that everyday losing is a real head rush. I hit bottom by about 8 mos out and I would love to get the rush of losing my last 20 lbs as fast as the newbies are!!! Good luck with the pudding!! My first soft meal was 1/2 a scrambled egg w/a little melted american cheese. It was sooooo good. BTW I also had a stall in my weight loss for 2 wks when I started soft food. It's just your bodies way of adjusting so don't worry if this happens!! Janie

We'll have to celebrate on Sunday! It hardly seems like a year has gone by. Look how much has changed! Dixie

You mean we've changed? (being sarcastic) ha ha Boy haven't we! And we each went through surgery twice just to prove we could!! Janie

Congrats on your one year anniversary don't be down on your self I don't know what your goal is but going from a size 26 to a size 12 is an accomplishment and your BMI should be under 25 by now if your down to 145 and that is Dr. G's goal for us. When I started my journey I was happy to get under 200 and didn't know what his goal was for us and I think it was Dixie or someone at the other web site told me for our bmi to be under 25. Congrats on your weightloss ANd happy one year anniversary! Take care Kim L. 300/138

Biggest of hugs Janie You have come so far in a year's time My year anniversary date is just a few days off, hard to believe! Wonder if the "fat" days ever go away? I'm down 90 lbs, size 14 jr in jeans from that 30/32 so can relate so much to what you are saying. Agree with you 100% what you are saying to the newbies & pre-op's. Some days it's hard to stay positive but all they need to do is look at profiles & find that we can relate to alot of what they are going thru. Keep up the good work hon Hugs Carolyn

Carolyn, you've done great too! Just think how much more energy you'll have getting ready for the big move. I have to laugh when you're talking about working at the bar. I used to bartend on the side to make extra money and it can really be fun (of course depending on the customers!) Congrats on your upcoming anniversary also!! Janie