April Fool No Joke...
I must admit in the beginning of this journey I really never thought it would happen and now it's been 1 YEAR!!!!
What a ride thinking back there is so much to be thankful for:
1st my wife Debbie who has been there through it all supporting me and encouraging me in every way and continues too as well as my daughter, son-n-law, brother and other family members.
2nd my Surgeon Dr. William O Richards and the entire Vanderbilt team.
His skill and thier dedication and knowledge create success.
3rd my OH friends who answered so many questions early on and encouraged and support me through this journey, for someone that travels and doesn't have the opportunity to go to support meetings this forum has been a big part of my success.
4th to list those that have been exceptional would fill a book but I would like to thank Dave H. we sat in his office and both agreed WLS was what we really need to do to survive! Thanks Dave!
To my endocrinologist Dr. M. May who encouraged me and monitored me through out.
To BamaBob for those late night conversations from the Guys point of view. Thanks Bob!
To Scott that took the time to extend a personal welcome to help in any way. Thanks Scott!
To Boner my biking mentor who encourages, pushes and throws me a protein bar in those hard miles biking in Colorado!
To Trina, Melinda, both have taught me so much.
To everyone that kept the IDGOMB thread going by participating.
One year ago I was a medical basket case on more med's then you could shake a stick thinking there was no hope.
Today I'm under goal weight, no med's, and have developed great eating and exercise habits that should last me a long healthy life.
So even though times are hard in reflection I'm a very wealthy man, with GREAT friends, family and health!
I've just mentioned a few but my friends list just shows you how lucky I am!
Thanks for letting me express my sincere appreciation!
C'ya Bob
My garsh! Has it been a year already!? Time sure flies... but now that you mention it, I remember we were teasing you about your surgery... that maybe the doctor would say "I did the surgery" but really didn't... LOL.
You've accomplished so much; it STILL amazes me to watch people's journey. Still amazes me. I'm already in tears cause I read a post on the BE board... a lady who had been bound to a wheelchair for 15 years, had wls and we have seen her graduate to a cane, and now she is out walking the streets, and being taken off medications for health conditions she had prior to wls... My goodness. This is a life changing event. Momentous. Amazing. Fabulous.
Hi Bob,
Well I am pretty bummed that I missed your surgeri-birthday!!!!
I was thinking about cha though!!!!
Hey, there is no way to learn from me sunshine… I am not a vet or a professional or any of the sorts… I just wanted to share my experience…. Guess what I got in return? Super great friends like you and Debbie….. That doesn’t happen very often… We have all been through a lot but look at us now….
I am very proud of your WLS accomplishments… It takes nothing short of hard work and dedication to make our tool work for us… You have been a true friend and inspiration…. Happy surgery birthday and cheers to Dr. Richards!!!!!!
Thanks and the appreciation that you expressed is "right back at ya" my friend.
THANK YOU!
You have been and are a great inspiration to me personally and to countless others as well. Your willingness to share your experiences and advice to help others is what this board is all about. Your committment to finding ways to exercise even though you are on the road all over the country in that fancy rig of yours truly made me realize there are no viable excuses - if you want it bad enough, you can do it. Like you, I don't attend a support group down here in Alabamy - so you and this Board have been and are my support group. Thanks for being a role model and source of support and motivation. I am truly proud of ya brother!
Keep on keepin' on! 
ROLL TIDE!!!
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