4 Years and Counting!

Boogaloo
on 5/16/10 2:31 am - PA
Hi,
So yesterday was my four year surgiversary and had meant to post but I had so much to do! My morning workout, a birthday party, a wedding and a concert. 

I still remember sitting in my house recovering from my surgery and finding this site.  It was so helpful me and I can honestly say that I wouldn't have gotten through that first year without it and all of the wonderful, supportive, amazing people that answered my silly questions and shared their experiences and knowledge. 

But even then, I remember wondering where the long timers were - where were the folks who had their surgeries 4, 5, 6 or even 10 years ago?  At that time I promised myself I would make sure to continue to contribute, even in some small way, forever so that the newbies would know that it can work for the long haul.  Now here I am, I haven't been on this site in so long and I apologize for as much as I have gained from this site, I have not returned. 

So, here's my story.  I lost 120 pounds and more than 100 inches... I am a certified group fitness, Pilates and Zumba instructor and I am going for my spinning certification this month.  My son asked me to train and run the marathon with him, and while I don't think I will, it was certainly something no one would've asked me five years ago!

But most of all, I don't have the self loathing that comes with horrible body self-image - I think back on those days and the thoughts that ran through my head about myself and it makes me a little sad for anyone who is struggling with their weight thinking less of themselves for it. 

So, I just want to say that no matter where you are in this struggle you are beautiful!!!! I want to thank all of you who have supported and inspired me with your grace and generosity and I want remind you that I am here if you need me.
Love and Happiness,
Lou
Pam Hart
on 5/16/10 6:56 am - Easton, PA
I was soooo excited to see Dot up on the page today!

Congrats on your four years - and all the fitness instructor certs you now hold - simply AMAZING!

A very honest, truthful post that was WONDERFUL!

Enjoy!
Instead of complaining that the rosebush has thorns, be happy that the thorn bush has roses.
Boogaloo
on 5/16/10 6:59 am - PA
Hi Pam,
Hopefully, you will be seeing Dot a little more frequently :)
...thanks for your comments!!!
bvohl
on 5/16/10 8:54 am
Lou,

Happy Surgiversary!! To read your story is so inspiring. I am almost a year out and have lost 130 lbs!  This experience has been such a roller coaster ride, but one worth taking. I feel that I have become such an advocate for bariatric surgery. It took me five years to finally be ready to do the surgery. I am definitely one of those people who used to think that I was not beautiful when I was obese. I still find it difficult at times when people compliment me on how great I look.  I look in the mirror and I know how different I look , how much more confident I am, and how much healthier my life is now.

I hear that it gets more difficult as time goes on, but I have started to conquer the beast. Nice to hear from people further out who give me hope for my future.

Thanks for sharing,
Beth
http://www.TickerFactory.com/weight-loss/wvHjqcu/">
http://tickers.TickerFactory.com/ezt/t/wvHjqcu/weight.png">>

Boogaloo
on 5/16/10 9:14 am - PA
Hi Beth,
Thanks for the kind words.  So happy to hear about all of the positive changes in your life. Best of everything to you!
Lou
lauraanne715
on 5/16/10 9:02 am - Pottstown, PA
CONGRATS!!!! What an inspiration you are! Hope to keep seeing you around!! You rock!!! ((HUGS))

Laura
"Two roads diverged in a wood..and I took the one less travelled by and that has made all the difference." -Robert Frost
Over 176+ lbs lost since surgery!! :-)
See my profile for my OH Blog!!

Boogaloo
on 5/16/10 9:12 am - PA
Thanks!!! I plan to be around - hugs right back at ya :)
Liz R.
on 5/16/10 10:23 am - Easton, PA
Hiya Stranger!!! Congrats on 4 years of great successing Lou!! Here's to many, many many more!

Liz
Boogaloo
on 5/16/10 10:35 am - PA
Hey Lady!
Nice to see you again - thanks for the congrats and the well wishes! I have to tell you celebrating my surgerversary on this site is so uplifting - the reunion with familiar faces and all of the positive words and wishes... I feel so grateful.
Lou
lynnc99
on 5/16/10 11:00 am
And thanks to YOU for the inspiring words. It's great to hear of your lasting success!
Most Active
Recent Topics
Dr. Griffins
ballroomdancer810 · 0 replies · 1947 views
12 Years!
Boogaloo · 1 replies · 2046 views
And DS groups in PA
Katetolov · 0 replies · 2727 views
×