10 years post surgery: brief advice to newbies

... returning to chat for my 10th surgery anniversary ...

Welcome back! Hopefully you'll stick around for a while - it's always great to have post-ops to share their experience.

Thanks. I think I need to be here more often to remind myself of what I've accomplished and to live off the fantastic energy of those starting this process. It's motivating to see so many people who are fresh and excited about the journey ahead.

Thank you for this! I am not foolish enough to think I can't regain. I absolutely could go down any of the paths you mention. I appreciate those like you who tell us the truth. I stay on OH to keep me on the straight and narrow, but certainly don't know what the future will bring.

Hi Robin,

Thanks for stopping by and congratulations on your anniversary We hope you stick around and if you need anything we were here

I totally agree, Im 6 years post op and have gained about 40 lbs back an let me tell you I feel every pound. Life doesn't get easier we just adapt and learn how to live like we should. Its an everyday battle post op I was a gym rat for 4 years straight 3 hrs a day 6 days a week and then I had to have surgery on my knee. Before I ate whatever I wanted I had chocolate everyday bc I worked out and maintained my weight and didn't have to worry well fast forward 5 months no gym and still eating like I was well... There you have it. Its not easy and I do feel like I have fail bc I always said Ill never gain it back. I wont be that person. You have to go back to basics and do what you did too get where you are. Easier said than done. I can eat about 1 cups or tad bit more depending on what it is Im eating and nothing I eat bothers me never has. Take lots of pictures and track. You have to be honest with your self bc in the end your only hurting your self and is it really worth it I ask myself that same question. I personally need to get back in the gym and stop eating out, attend more support groups and get my ass in gear. Dont go back to old habits bc once you do its that easy to fall back into the hole you were once in. My ankles have been swelling the past week everyday and Im not sure why. I feel it probably bc of the weight bc my BP is normal and no other issues that I know of. Keep up the good work. Its a beautiful thing to know you have come so far but yet so far away sometimes. Good luck to all I wouldn't change a thing I just wish I would have done it many years age!

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Thanks for your input. Every day is a new opportunity!