Belated 3-year anniversary post

The 3-year anniversary of my RNY gastric bypass was October 25th.  I was preoccupied with recovering from a tummy tuck at that time, but I wanted to post about life "now" versus "then." 

10/25/05:  I weigh 386 pounds
10/25/08:  I weigh ~180 pounds. 

10/25/05:  My heart was pounding and I had to stop and catch my breath after climbing a flight of stairs.
10/25/08: I can climb 50-60 flights of stairs on the stairmaster, then do another 30-40 minutes of cardio on the elliptical, stationary bike or rowing machine. 

10/25/05:  I have to stop and rest after walking for 5-10 minutes.
10/25/08:  I can walk for hours, and still keep going.

10/25/05:  I'm on two medications to control my blood pressure, and one medication to keep my periods regular.  My resting pulse is around 80. 
10/25/08:  My blood pressure is normal and my periods are regular, no medications required.  My resting pulse is around 55. 

10/25/05:  I don't fit in airplane seats, or movie seats, or restaurant booths. 
10/25/08:  I fit easily into airplace seats, movie seats and restaurant booths. 

10/25/05:  I only shop at Catherines or from the Lane Bryant or Roaman's catalogs.  In many cases, I'm buying the largest sizes they offer....
10/25/08:  I shop wherever I want.  I can wear medium and large tops/shirts, and pants in sizes from 14-18, depending on the cut/style/fabric.

Although I still have issues I'm struggling with (body image issues are something I'm having a hard time with right now), I've made a lot of progress in three years.  It's been hard work, with some terrible lows but some fantastic highs as well.  It hasn't been an easy journey, but it's one I would not trade for anything.  I've made some great friends along the way, including some great folks in this forum (esp. Kix, Jenn, PJ, Jan), and I've learned a lot about myself. 

Anyway, that's my story at three years out - just wanted to take a moment to reflect and share some of my thoughts...

Kellie

thanks! you give me great hope.

You've been given a fantastic tool; how well it works now is up to you!  Stay hopeful, work hard, and you will be a tremendous success!!!

Kellie

Kellie, it is so awesome to see someone posting about their 3 year anniversary and that you are still working your tool, still exercising and keeping up with all the other requirements from this drastic life change.

What an inspiration to see where you've come from and exactly how far you've gotten in 3 short years and to have had plastics to boot!

Keep up the good work and as always, you are an inspiration to me!

Thanks, Kathy!  When I chose WLS, I made a lifetime commitment, and I intend to stick to that.  The gains are well worth the sacrifices. 

I'm glad my story can help inspire others to hopefully achieve their own goals!

Kellie

Congratulations on three successful years!  I appreciate the reflection of the years, it helps put the journey into perspective.

Thanks, Clinell.  How are you doing these days?

Kellie

Thanks for posting!!  It's amazing to see how far you've come and what an inspiration!!!

Thanks Kellie for your inspiring post. My 3 year anniversary is next month. I actually almost forgot about it. I am so glad you are sticking to the program.. I have fell of the wagon abit, but slowly getting back on. We have all come soo far.
Have a great weekend and thanks for sharing
Lynn

What a wonderful way to pass your 3rd anniversary. Congratulations on all your hard-won success.