6 months out... WOW milestones!

I could never have imaged the transformation I have gone through in the 6 months since my surgery and 9 months since I started this journey last August... 

Down 100 lbs! Started at my highest of 301 lbs, today I am 201 lbs.
My BMI went from 45 to 32.
I have lost 47" of bulk off my body.
My pant size was 24 and I am now in a 12!
I went from NO exercise to 5 days a week Turbo Kick and running!

Yesterday I got my braces off my teeth after 2.5 years and this Saturday I will be running in my first ever 5k. I am confident I will actually JOG/RUN, not walk ,the entire thing. Last summer I couldn't have run up my culdesac! My goal was to either be under 200 or at least at 100 lbs lost before this big run this weekend. I reached the 100 lbs. lost and may even be in Onederland by Saturday.

My middle son, Xander, almost 5, has many serious health issues, Autism being a minor one. The Autism 5k is the race I am running. He had 1/4 of his brain removed when he was 18 months old to try and control his seizures. It worked, but he also has Cerebral Palsy and only partial vision. He says and signs about 25 words at this point, but is a very happy and loving child. He was one of my biggest motivations for getting healthy and changing the lifestyle path I and my family were on.

Our shopping, eating, and fitness patterns have changed dramatically. Portion control is better, meals are planned out with better choices, eating out has been cut, and the kids are starting to enjoy more fruits and veggies. At my 6 month appt. this week, they were happy with everything except the fact that I eat 1 cup per meal, when they said I should still only be at half. I've yet to dump, but am a little lactose intolerant suddenly. I do take bites of this and that to curb cravings, but do NOT push the limits. Exercise has made the most difference for me. Our family joined the Elk River YMCA and I go to Turbo Kick 3 times a week and run 2-3 times a week.

People have commented that I'm almost half the woman I was before, and that I truly am a whole new me. I'm taking far better care of myself and my family is picking up on the habits. I'm still not at my ultimate goal of 150, but with my 5' 9" large frame, I'll be satisfied if I only make it to 175. I want to be a size 10 realistically, but would love to hit those single digit 8's!

I may not post as much as I used to, but I still read ALL of your posts a few times a week when I'm on conference calls or have a little time. Everyone here is so kind and encouraging and doing a GREAT job! I hope I can be of some help to a newbie or veteran alike! Let's continue to ROCK OUR TOOLS!

Blessings,
Shannon
 

Yay for you.........Congrats to you..........Keep up the great work sweetie........

Congrats Shannon!!  You are doing awesome.  Keep up the good works and good luck on your 1st ever 5k.   Donna

Shannon:

You are doing such a terrific job with you weight loss surgery!!!  I am so happy to hear that you are doing well and living a healthier life.  Thank you so much for sharing your story with us.

RP

CONGRATULATIONS SHANNON!!!!!!!!

You have done an awesome job.....keep up the good work!!

Hugs....connie d

Congrats......Great job working that tool.....

Good luck at the 5K.....Sounds like it is for a good cause....

Kelly

Your post moved me to tears.  I am right behind you at 5 months out.  I am so encouraged by your determination.  Most of all, by your commitment and love for your son.  The emotional toll it takes to parent a child without special needs is tough, for you to overcome overeating, laziness, and self pity to become what you are today, I give you a standing ovation.  I am moved.

God bless you richly,
Tere

Wow! Your post is inspirational to me. I'm about 5 months post surgery at this point, but am only 58 lbs down. I was getting a bit discouraged, but realize I need to work my tools harder to acheive my goal. THANK YOU!