10 Month's Post-Op

Hi April Baby's, When I started this journey 10 month's ago, I had no idea it would be like this. This has truly been remarkable! This tool has exceeded my expectations. I thought if I could just get into a size 16 and weigh under 200 lbs I would be happy. Well, I'm here to tell you that size 16 and weighing under 200 lbs came and went! Then I thought if I could just get into a size 12, I would be happy, that came and went too!!! I started in a size 24-26 pants and am now in a size 8! I did not studder, I said SIZE 8!!!!!!!!!! I have gone from a 28-30 shirt to a S,M,L shirt (depending on how it's made or the mood I'm in!) I started this journey weighing 282 lbs and now weigh 145lbs. Which brings my weight loss total too (drum roll please) 137 lbs. I reached my surgeon's goal in 9 short month's. My personal goal is 125-130 lbs so, I'm almost there. I wanted to have WLS to be a healthier person and to have a better quality of life so that I could be around for my nieces and my family. My purpose was and still is to make those two precious girls proud of me. It is priceless to have a 9 and 6 year old tell you how wonderful you look. I can't begin to say how much that means to me. There are so many things that have truly changed my life forever. The person I am now was always inside of me, I was just trapped in my own fat. I am so glad that I am able to be that person now. For the first time in my life, I actually feel complete. I could not ask for anything more (other then plastics... ) I want to thank Tracy (my boyfriend) for encouraging me through these last few pounds and giving me the extra push when I need it. You have been my driving force Tracy, thank you. I am so fortunate to be able to go to a dinner and dancing tonight with the Texas Message Board people and I know I will be surrounded by not only people that support me but, people that have inspired me, that is truly a blessing in itself. I know the room will be filled with A LOT of love between us OH members. We have a special bond between all of us, and I think it's pretty dern cool! I can't wait to see all of you tonight. I can't think of a better way to spend my 10 month anniversary. I thank God everyday for blessing me with this wonderful gift. The gift of LIFE!!! And I thank my sweet Mother for bringing me into this world and making me the person that I am today. I also thank my surgeon and his staff for cheering me on every step of the way! Wherever you are in your journey, never lose sight of your dreams they can and will come true. Be a find-a-way, make-a-way person and you will have all that your heart desires. Gina P.S. - There are updated pictures on my www. I was acting like a hoochie Mama!

Gina, you look absolutely wonderful....! On another note, I know you live in Texas now, but you look SOOOOO familiar! Maybe you just look like someone I know/knew....but it is strange! Have a great day! Marcie

Sniff, sniff... I'm so happy for you Gina and it's been great getting to know you for almost a year now. I know I'm especially blessed to have been able to talk with you on the phone (during the storm) and party with you during the Houston meeting. The road is so sweet because of the souls sharing the journey with us. Onward! Frances

Hi, This is Gina A's Mom. I have to say Gina is a find-a-way, make-a-way person. I know that 10 months ago today I sat at the hospital seeing my daughter in pain, but I knew she had at last got her hearts desire that she had wanted for 3 long years. Gina you have come a long way, baby. You look like a movie star! Dance the night away tonight & shine like a star Fancy Face.This is your day to shine! I LOVE YOU MORE THAN ANYTHING. Mom

Hi, Momma! This is Peggy B. and I must say, you truely have been blessed with an angel. She has been my shining star all through this WL journey. I'm glad it's her turn to be blessed as she has blessed so many of us. You are also in my prayers. I know you miss Gina, but isn't it wonderful she has embarked on the journey of her life! Hugs and more hugs!!! Peggy B.

Aw Thanks Peggy, but trust me she wasn't always the she is today. Hope you had a Happy Anniversary & many more. Pstttt Go to Tracy's profile and click oh the www thingy & see the party pics & the ones of my Grands with Gina. http://www.picturetrail.com/twilkerson Gina's Mom

Gina, I have to agree with francis,, that was a moving post completly,, not only are you beautiful outside you are more beautiful inside,, which is hard to find these days!! You look absolutly amazing , I can't even explain it!!! And your happiness shows from ear to ear!!! I hope one day to walk in your footsteps and have the happiness you are experiencing,, it was a pleasure to meet you , and hope we meet again some day. Best of luck girl and good luck on your goal,, I know that will come soooooo soon,, you are awesome!!!!!