Hello OH friends.

Hello again all, Joe here with an update on how great this journey is. I'm sorry i don't post as nearly as often as i used to, but in a way it's a very good thing. Life is very different then it used to be and i am very glad it is. First the bad, I went for an endoscopy on the 8th and found out that i have an ulcer and also had my gallbladder checked out and DR. is saying that will have to come out soon, also dealing with some people's anger and jealousy but i expected it and it don't phase me anymore. Now to the good, the many many good things. I am 3 pounds shy from my original goal weight of 175 which is amazing. I also just got hired working with mentally ill patients and am very excited because I've been out of the world for too long and now one of the best gifts this has given to me is LIFE. I am down to almost a 30 pants and a large to medium shirt. One of my favorites so far is the double take lol cracks me up every time no matter how many time i hear it. I am not the same person i used to be in any stretch of the imagination. I am WAY more confident and a heck of alot happier then i ever can remember being. My new mantra is caution to the wind complete freedom, no more fat guy in a shell that was this miserable person who hated everyone and everything. I look at life alot different than before, nature is a million time more beautiful than ever before and i am proud to say that i have finally taken control back of my life and control my own destiny and happiness. The future is brighter and newer and i thank God for giving me a life i can be proud of. God bless and Happy Good Friday and Happy Easter to all My great OH people.

Joe,

Thanks so much for posting an update. Always good to hear of your progress and success. You'll probably reach your goal weight within a week at the rate you've been going. Any thoughts on whether you'll define a new goal?

Very sorry to hear about the ulcer and gallbladder. Any clue what caused the ulcer and if it's associated with your diet? I live in fear that I'll develop a complication like that and really want to avoid anything that may be a contributing factor.

Also curious how they're treating the ulcer. Not sure how our pouches can handle the traditional medication they use.

The gallbladder issue is sure unfortunate. Didn't they test the gallbladder before your RNY surgery? I went through that test because they planned on removing it during the same surgery. Mine tested fine and it wasn't removed. But, at least they can do it without invasive surgery.

Love your attitude and outlook on things. Keep up the good work and enjoye the new job. Sounds like it's something you'll enjoy and excel at.

Hey buddy good to hear from you as well. I am pretty much going to continue to lose until my body says enough lol, then i will start a weight lifting routine to tone my body to its best shape possible. Thanks for your concern about my ulcer and gallbladder. I think i might have developed the ulcer by stress and sometimes my new stomach doesn't like certain foods so i have to make myself vomit yuck lol. I am taking 60 mg kapidex twice a day and two teaspoons of carafate 3 times a day. My DR. says ill be on them for six months yay lol, but ill be glad when I'm healed again. My gallbladder is messing up I'm assuming because of the rapid weight loss and he says that it is strangely enough common to have to take the gallbladder because the surgery and weight loss. I'm sure he will take my gallbladder out laprascopically and i will only have to be in the hospital for a maximum of overnight, but i just hope it doesn't effect my work schedule or my ability to do my job correctly. Congratulations on meeting your goal, have you set any new goals since you met your first goal? I hope you are enjoying the same if not more happiness then i am experiencing, you are a very kind person and i wish you the best. Happy Easter my friend.

Thanks for the info on the meds. Wasn't sure what kinds of meds we could take after surgery. Hope you get things cleared up.

Best of luck with the gallbladder and keep us posted on the progress.

Have an enjoyable Easter.

Thanks you too.

Hey Joe. I love your attitude too! Congrats to you on achieving so many goals, physically and mentally. Hard earned and good on you!!

All the best as you treat the ulcer and prepare for gallbladder surgery.

Thanks Jill i also wish you the best on your journey. Happy Easter.

Joe, you have been on an amazing journey and I've been following it. Your attitude has always been good. I remember your 100 pound loss YouTube video. It was a touching video for sure. It does sound that you have been given new life and I am very happy for you. Keep dreaming those dreams and making them come true. -- Tom

Thanks very much Tom. Good luck on your 5 boro ride.

 Congrats on your weight loss and the new job.  =D