What Happens to Us?

I'm kinda a long timer here (surgery 11/03) and in that time I have lurked and posted, been supportive, etc. I read a post today about this board being quiet... and it got me to thinking (actually I have been thinking about a lot), and decided to post to hopefully solicit a dialoge. I can't say that any of the posters, are on the boards (even as occasional updates) these days and it's been a while. Why is that? Are our "new" healthier lifestyles leading us away from the computer? Have we outgrown the board? Lost interest? Was our success short lived? Are we embarrased to ask for help? Obviously, it's none of our darn business, but I ask because many times the ups and downs we share motivate us and we all learn no matter how far out we are... So, here's my scoop I check to the board during the week from work. I post if I think I have something positive to offer. I read recent profile updates, so I'm a partial lurker I'm +2 1/2 years post-op and my health and fitness level are probably the best in my life. It's not "easy" but I at least make good food choices 90% of the time and forgive myself (most of the time) when I do not. Even to this day I may have something my tummy just doesn't like and reminds me. For me surgery seems like forever and while I'm greatful to my surgeon and team, I'm equally proud of my progress and commitment I've managed to maintain. It's nice to hear from everyone, newbies, middie's and old timers... Everyone have a nice weekend short or extended. Lisa PS: excuse any spelling / typos...

Hi Lisa, When I was 'new' to the Maryland board (Feb/Mar 2004) pre-op there always seemed to be a lot of activity. I didn't always post because I was 'shy' and didn't really know anyone, but I did lurk regularly and posted on occasion. I think we as Maryland folks have a lot to offer each other in the way of support, both on line, by phone and in person with meet and greet or less formal support group meetings. Last month, Teresa, Terry, Karen D. and I got together for lunch on a Sunday in White Marsh. We are planning another get together for Sunday, August 6 at Arundel Mills. I am hoping that we can keep these get togethers going on a monthly to every 6 week basis and that the group will grow! I am just 27 months (geeez .. I sound like a toddler counting in months .. ) post op and while I haven't reached my 'goal' and I may never reach it, I am a much healthier person than I was at 280+ pounds (I think my all time 'recorded' high was some where in the 290's and I started with Dr S at 278 after having lost a bit on my own). I try to make good choices and like you try not to beat myself up when I don't. Even this far out, my pouch has a mind of its own, so I am often reminded that I am not 'normal'. I am a pretty solid size 14 with some 12's thrown in and some 16's on the other end there for good measure. I don't have a weight goal, though I do have a 'size' goal to be an 8. I think at my age I might be dreaming, but I'll keep that dream. I've been maintaining where I am not pretty consistently for about a year, so I know that I will need to kick it up a notch and 'diet' if I want to lose that last 30 or so pounds. I'm busy living my life, but I try to take the time every day to check and see what's going on here and offer a word or two if I can. Hope to see you on the boards again soon! and maybe at one of our gatherings. Hugs, Mo

Hello Lisa Your right. I started coming to this board in November 2005. To me it seemed that this board was a little more active at the time. Mostly I've been going to the March 2006 board. I come here usually for local info or to give support when I have something to contribute. I can honestly say people on the other board know little about Old Bay seasoning . Unfortunately, I can no longer post from work. We've had a whole system change. I can say, It was the comments from the Marylanders that helped me to make my decision to have the surgery. I'm 4 months post-op and thus far I havn't had any complications. I feel better emotionally and physically. Nadine O

I'm nine months post op ... and like a lot of us, I rarely post ...though I do read frequently....but not just the Maryland board. I check it, and the Sept 2005 board and the gay/lesbian board and from time to time the main board. So for me ... a part is, too many boards and blogs and bill paying, and shopping and work and email and hey .... I finally have something to do at night beside eat My health is better than ever! I started at 312 when the doctor told me to do the surgery...got to 284 on surgery day and today am at 196.5. Finally in Onederand!! Still loosing steady ... just a little slower ....but energy galore and I can cross my legs in the center airplane seat and put the lap tray down to eat !! WHOO HOO!!! So ...Lisa .... thanks for shaking us lurkers out of our hiding places Jody