363 Days Later...(with pics)

Sunday is my 1-year surgervisary!  I can’t believe how fast the time went.  So many things have changed over this last year.  When I was looking at pictures to do a side-by-side comparison, I noticed how happy I look now.  I think the truth is more that I was so unhappy before.  I was letting my life just pass by without being able to participate the way I really wanted to.  Actually, the deciding factor for me to finally talk to the doctor about getting the surgery was when my friend asked me to go to Bodega Bay for a weekend and I knew there was no way I could do that much walking.  I realized right then that I didn’t want to keep saying “no” to things because of my weight.

I realize that while “losing” the weight, I’ve “gained” so much in return.  Self-confidence, improved health, love of hiking, being able to say “yes” to things, cute clothes, no seat belt extenders on airplanes.  I’m even doing the swim portion of a triathlon at the end of April!  Me!!  Swimming competitively!

It hasn’t always been easy, but it definitely has been worth it.  I set a goal to be at 150 pounds before I could see a plastic surgeon.  It’s only 15 pounds away, but these seem like the hardest pounds to lose.  I used to scoff at my friends when they would tell me they wanted to lose 15 pounds, when I had had 165 pounds that I had to lose.  I have a newfound respect for them. 

I also know that the next phase – maintenance – may be my biggest struggle yet.  It’s fun when the weight is dropping fast, people are noticing, and my body is changing almost daily.  But, the daily grind of staying on plan (with no immediate return) may be difficult for me.  I plan on seeing a therapist to learn how to deal with my food issues…the same issues that got me to the point of weighing over 300 pounds. 

I don’t post very often on this site, but I do come to this site almost daily for encouragement, advice, and knowledge. I want to thank everyone who has helped me along the way.

Wow!!! You look great and so happy. Congrats on your success!!!

Thanks!  I am very happy

Great job!   You look mahvelous!

Thanks so much!

WOW! Go you! Amazing job.

Thanks! It's been a journey...but worth every step!

Nicely done!

Thanks!  I really appreciate reading your posts and responses.  You have just the right combination of knowledge and humor! 

Congratulations on your fantastic successes!