2 years out-

Hi Guys,

I haven't posted for a while- life gets in the way. I'm 2 years out today and just wanted to share some thoughts and insight regarding my journey. 

First, it took 15 months to hit bottom, including the 6 months prior to surgery when I started keeping track and making a conscious effort to change my lifestyle. I went from 305 to 170, my goal weight. I've run hundreds of miles since then including several road races over the last 2 years. I slowed down a bit over last winter and subsequently regained 10 pounds or so. I actually feel a little better with that adjustment and it hasn.t affected my clothes size or waist measurements, it just kind of filled me out all over a little bit. People still remark how good and healthy I look, as opposed to remarking how they think I've lost too much and look gaunt. I can put on shoes and run 5K on a whim with little or no effort.

I used to weigh daily when I was losing but now it's just once a week or so. I experienced no complications from this surgery, and my menu selections have no restrictions, however, some foods I instinctively avoid. I still eat very little bread, rice, pasta, or potatoes. Full throttle ice cream is a no-no. etc. All meals are protein forward and the involuntary restriction surgery has afforded me has served me well. I try to keep my vitamin/supplement intake on schedule religiously, however, sometimes it's hard to get the 3 calcium citrate doses in as the day progresses. I am still off all previous prescription meds, diabetes, blood pressure, cholesterol.  I always drink before meals and never during, I probably drink more alcohol than I should, which undoubtedly contributed to my regain. I guess we all have our demons.

My advice to the newbies- stick to the plan, do the best you can. If you fall down, pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and keep moving forward. Don't sweat a bad meal choice or a day of overindulgence, remember, this is a life long marathon, not a sprint. The vets on this forum will be here if you need them, for encouragement or a kick in the ass. It got me through a lot of crap when I was early out and trying to figure things out. You chose this journey for a good reason, follow the rules and you will be rewarded.

Although I don't post as regular as I used to, I am always lurking. Good luck!!

Tim T.

Hey Bro!  Been a while.  Come back more often!

Hi Tim-Really great to hear from you! Glad your doing well...would love to go for a fun run being we both live in SE Mass...If interested pm me...

Best,

Bill M

Missed you bud, glad to hear you are doing well!

Hi: Tim,  Good to hear from you, as of yet I have not had surgery, maybe this Dec, God willing. Your post have always helped me , please come back soon. Stay well my friend.

88 Florida.