Two years out

It is hard to believe it has been two years since I was released from the world of morbid obesity. Life is so drastically different. I hope the memories of being 400+ lbs. never leaves me as it keeps me grounded. I have done fairly well sticking to the program. Most of that has to do with the motivation to NEVER EVER return to where I was. It wasn't until I had become relatively normal again where I came to the realization that I was absolutely miserable. Perhaps I knew that deep down inside, but just didn't acknowledge it at the surface. Perhaps one of the best things to come out of my surgery are all the folks I've met along my journey. Prior to WLS, I had almost no life, few friends and barely did anything outside of work. There are so many of you who have inspired and encouraged me along the way, I hesitate to even being listing names. I must, however, thank Kevin Phillips for everything he has done to encourage me. They don't come any better than KP. To all the others who I've met who have shared their successes and provided support, I thank you for your words. We are all in a unique brotherhood and sisterhood that "outsiders" never really understand because they've never "been there". I feel truly blessed and this board is as much a part of my life as fast food restaurants and "all you can eat" buffets were 2 years ago. I hope every single person on this board enjoys all the same rewards that my new life has brought me. Finally, I have to thank my wife and children for all their support. It was an adjustment for them as well. Our cruise on Saturday is my way of thanking them for supporting me. Jon

Thanks Jon and congrats- you are truely an inspiration!!! Shannon

Happy Rebirthday!! with that SF Cheesecake!

AWWWW,,,,,,,, If you were here I'd let you pull my finger, buddy! Right back at ya. kp @ goal & (_E=mc2_)

Jon, you are one of the best things that have come out this surgery for me. I will NEVER forget putting out an SOS call because of my son, and you stayed on with me, offering to drop what you were doing to help me look, but most importantly, keeping me calm and hopeful, giving me great advice. You are a GREAT human being and spirit. You have inspired so many people and you do it with such grace and modesty. Thank you for being a part of MY life for the last 2 years. I consider you a true friend. Carol

Happy 2 year re-birthday Jon!!! You have truly been a wonderful inspiration to me (and many others) through out this journey!! Congratulations for all that you have accomplished and become over the past two years!!! Hope you and your family have a BLAST on the cruise...you deserve it!! Hugs, Cheryl

Although I am a day late I wanted to wish you a Happy 2 Year Re-Birthday. You have always been such an inspiration to me. I always looked forward to seeing you at the functions. You have always been so kind. See you in a week for the cruise!!

Congratulations Jon! Ditto to everyone's comments....you have been a big inspiration to me and so many here. I know what you mean about the people on this board and how it is such a wonderful support group. I couldn't have done this without everyone here. You have done wonderfully and what a great way to ring in the 2 year mark...a cruise! It sounds like you will have a blast with your family and all the friends from here that are going! Have a great time and once again, CONGRATULATIONS! Hugs, Theresa

Jon, You have given back so much to everyone on this board. I want to thank you for that and for your words today that are so inspirational to all of us here that seeks what is in store for us further out. I so much agree with the unique relationships that we develope here. I will be celebrating with you and Jen on the cruise this coming week. Take care Janice

Happy "belated" Re-Birthday Jon! You have come such a long way and have accomplished so much! You look wonderful and I know that you feel as good as you loo****ep up the great work and enjoy your vacation!