Nearly 11 years out *photos*

I thought I would check in with O.H. Since my 11 year anniversary is coming up very soon.  I have been at goal for many years and I am excited to say still in my goal weight range of 135.  It really has been a miraculous transformation from diabetic and 283.5 to healthy and 135.  Here are some images of me from the past year.

You look fabulous!  Congrats on your great success!!

Thanks.  It's just my new normal life now not obsessed with food, just trying everyday to pick clean and healthy options that keep me as healthy as possible.

Looking amazing and sassy as always,Heidi! Thanks for checking in and congratulations! 

Thanks.  I have been working on my nature photography and doing lots of traveling.  Africa is next.

Thanks for being a role model!!

Thanks.  But I found a way that works for me, everyone has to find what can make them successful and healthy that they can do for life.

I agree and that what works for you may not be what works for me.  However, what is important is that you found what works for you (maybe you had to do some experimenting and maybe you had some false starts), and we can all find what works for each of us.  That is the power of being a role model - which you are if for no other reason than that you are 10 years ahead of me.  Your success increases the chances of my success.

I won't suggest people get rny anymore, I feel it is too drastic with too many variables and unknowns with altered anatomy, so if you ask me point blank I would say opt for vsg as it leaves your intestines and pyloric valve intact, avoids things like dumping and reactive hypoglycemia.  I make the best of the surgery I had but I also know that if I am involved in a medical emergency, I was, a blocked bile duct, having altered anatomy can be extremely dangerous. I cannot imagine having this same medical emergency outside the country or in an area without a bariactric team.   I spent ten days in two different hospitals before they performed what should have been a routine ercp on a normal anatomy person, for me it included two surgical teams and a procedure through my excluded stomach to clear my bile duct.

My eating has been fine since early out, I pick carefully, avoid everything that makes me sick and eat less than 1000 calories on most days.  My husband had surgery, against my advice, 1.5 years ago and still cannot eat certain foods and has to vomit way too often.  Personally I feel rny is just too risky long term and I am one of the lucky ones who isn't diabetic any longer and who has maintained my weight.  

You look like one very happy woman !!!!!  

Love to hear the stories of success lasting years.  You give us all hope that these changes can be permanent with commitment.  

Wishing you continued health and happiness