Two-year gastiversary!

Today is my two-year "gastiversary," my rebirthday. On June 29, 2004, after a slight delay to get my potassium levels up, Dr. James Foote changed my life. He saved my life. Before this surgery, I truly believed I would be dead before I was 60. Now I believe I'll live longer, although I will need knee replacements. I started out at 347; I'm now at 187, only 17 pounds from my goal. I was wearing size 30W or a very tight 3X; I'm now in a regular size 18 in pants or a size Large. Wow, how my life has changed. I can now walk around the mall fairly easily; couldn't do that before. In April, I walked all around an amusement park (although with a cane) and other than the final uphill I wasn't in too much pain. Was in a little pain the next day but nothing that a good soak in a jacuzzi couldn't fix. I couldn't have done that at 347 pounds. I don't know how many people at work, who see me every day, look at me and say things like, "Boy, you look nice today," even when I haven't done anything all that special dressing or with my hair or anything. I have never thought of myself as beautiful before. I now see myself in a different light. It has given me a whole new confidence. And it has taught me that I can eat smaller portions. Why couldn't I do this before? I don't know? Why couldn't I not eat the whole bag of chips before, or half the carton of ice cream? Now, I can put a portion of ice cream in a custard cup and I'm satisfied. I can eat six chips, and I'm happy. It's like my brain has rewired. I don't want any more than that. Anyway, these two years have been an amazing journey. I have learned from this board, my friends, my group, my psychologist and I have learned a lot about myself. It's not over, and I hope to keep learning and growing. Eileen lap rny 6-29-04 347/187/170

Happy Anniversary, Eileen! It sounds like the whole world has opened up before you. I hope this doesn't sound hokey (since I only know you from your posts) but I am very proud of you and how far you have come! Keep up the good work! Hugs to you on your special day! Maria W.

Happy anniversary Eileen! It is an amazing feeling. I feel like my life has totally changed as well. I am 7 months out from having my plastic surgery and believe me that has also been an amazing experience. Take care - Carey

Happy gastiversary, Eileen!!!! I am soooooo happy for you! You have done a wonderful job! I pray that I am as successful as you have been when I am 2 years out. I am only 15 days out so I am in the learning stages, but I will get there. How exciting that you can move around so much better! I know all too well about portion control... What were we thinking?!??! LOL!!! love, Kathy

Mine too. Happy gastiversary!

Happy Anniversary to both of you!!! Sounds like you are doing wonderfully Eileen! And Alita, your pic looks fabulous too! Congrats! Theresa