Hi! I'm new!

Allow me to introduce myself.  I'm Natasha from down in Batesville, IN.  At the beginning of July last year, I weighed 317 pounds.  Right now, I weigh 217!  (still about 45 to go)  I have not had the surgery, but went through the Optifast program at Jewish Hospital in Cincinnati.  (My SIL had surgery a while back, so I am familiar with that, too)  Although I don't have some of the nutrient absorbtion issues that you all do, I do still have many of the thing that are associated with rapid weight loss...learning a whole new way of eating, having no clothes to wear as the weather starts to warm up, extra, nasty, flabby skin hanging around everywhere...

Anyway, I met Jacqui (Sprat username, I think.  I just saw her picture on here.) at a work related seminar and after talking, she recommended this board to me.  I hope I am still welcome here (even without the WLS) and am looking forward to the friendship and support.

Hi Natasha!

Welcome.  You will find everyone here is VERY friendly and EXTREMELY helpful!!!
I am fairly new here too...so welcome home!!!

pam

Hi there and welcome!  You are welcome here and just so you know, there is a forum for people that are non-surgical (Non-surgical weight loss forum).  You will find lots of very nice and friendly people here. 

HI-Jack! sorry, Sabreena is your surgery date april 16, If so thats my surgiversary! Woo hoo that date rocks!

WElcome!!  You have already met one of Indiana boards sweetest people.  Jacqui is a great girl!  You are always welcome here.  This is a support site for people dealing with Obesity whether they have had surgery or not doesnt really matter.  You are one of the lucky ones that has found a way to take the weight off without surgery.  You get a huge amount of respect from me.  I couldn't do it. 

I am sure you will find we have alot in common with you and feel free to jump in and post any time.  You are welcome to participate in our activities too.  This board is full of great people who are like a family.

Huge hugs,
Tracy

Hi Natasha

Welcome!! Sounds like you are doing fabulous.  I am Leah and I live in Crothersville, IN... southern Indiana.  I am 44 and had a Lap Roux En Y surgery in October 2008.  I am down 97lbs and I feel your pain when you  mention the loose skin and having no clothes.  I went to put on a pair of shorts today... and um... they won't stay up.  I could fit my butt into one leg!!!!  YEA!! 
This is a great place for support and advice. Kick off your shoes and get comfy.  Read some profiles.  I love to read the profiles. 
Glad to have you here and look forward to getting to know you better.

Welcom Natasha,

They are right this is the friendiest, kindest board you will find.


Leah - You go Girl...you are doing great.  I hope I do as well as you.  My surgery is right around the corner.

Lisa