Say hello and introduce yourself!

1 Tim Walters here, 9 years out... started at 345, lowest weight was 190, at 210 now and pretty happy.  Had a couple of WLS surgery related problems, the worst was a herniated bowel, but OK now... became a vegetarian, and continue to eat a low carb diet similar to the original I was on when I had the surgery. Also quit caffeine... 

2. Could definitely use more exercise!  Will be retiring in 3 years from the Florida higher ed system, looking forward to that after 3 years!

3. I have had some weight return (more than I am at now), but was able to take most of it off by returning to the eating plan given to me after surgery.  So, there is hope if you put some back on!

I worked at a university in FL for 5 years! Congrats on your soon to be retirement!

I know many do not think being vegetarian is possible due to the protein needs that are so beaten into our heads, but I know many many WLS vegetarians!

I eat lots of cheese (not a problem because I eat almost no carbs), tofu and textured veggie protein deals, and an occasional free range egg (I have two pet ducks that each give me an egg a day in the yard, and a handicapped one that is housebound for the most part that also lays sometimes)...

1) I am 3 ¾ years out from my RNY, and I am so very proud of myself for how I have learned to manage myself.

I am 122.2 lbs this morning after 140 lb weight loss, and have maintained that weight since I lost it. The very best part is the huge improvement in my health. I am 63, have 10 grandchildren, and they have to keep up with me now.

2) So my goals are to keep doing what I am doing with eating healthy and literally walking my butt off at least 2 ½ miles every single day that I can with the companionship of my little dog. She inspires me. My life is super now, and I intend to keep creating that. As I said above, my health is also super now, and I hope that continues. I'm doing my best to support it.

3) Practice learning to love and honor yourself, and putting that into action no matter what it takes, no excuses or reasons why not. The payoff in self respect is huge, and worth so much more than comforting yourself in the short term. We only have this one life to live, and it's the only one we know about. Live for your present and your future.

Get as much support as you possibly can with positive role modeling people, including therapy, to learn what you need to, and know you are not alone in your journey.

It's a hell of a ride!

Self respect is key to many aspects in life!

1) Where are you in your weight loss surgery journey? How are you doing so far?

Hi everyone.  I am Tina and I am 7 weeks post op lap DS.  My recovery was pretty uneventful.  I am down 30 pounds and 3 sizes so I am pretty thrilled.  My biggest fear was what if it doesn't work.  I am already off my blood pressure meds which is so exciting.

2) Any goals that you're currently working on? (weight, health or life related)

I am still working on getting in 100 g protein and at least 64 oz water and all my vites. Some days I forget and eat too fast or too much.  I do not really have the density of food figured out yet for my new designer insides.

3) What words of wisdom would you share with others?

WLS is just a tool so follow your plan and believe in yourself that you can do it.

Slow and steady...small sips...often. Hope your healing goes well....

Hi, everybody......

1.  I am Stacy and I will be 3 years and 5 months out next Monday.  I lost 120 lbs in the first 8 months and have re-gained 30 lbs in the past year. I was 20 lbs from my goal. I never reached goal....

2.  I am working to lose the re-gain.  Need to up protein and move more !!

3.  Although I never reached goal, doesn't mean I won't get there.  Everyday is a new beginning and I am living now and not just existing !!  I am still very optimistic and would have this surgery again in a heart beat !!

Life is good !!!

What was your "goal" based on...surgeons seem to not have a set guideline for such things....are you better off now that you were before? Then wasn't that the goal of surgery?

Sarahlicious, Thank you for this thread and all the words of encouragement you have given to everyone.

 I AM so much better off than I was most of my life.  My surgeon set no goal for me.....he is very pleased with my weight loss......it is just me that wants to lose more.....I am struggling right now, but I know I can reach my own personal goal !!   Thanks again !