2 years post op - bittersweet (with pics)

I was contemplating whether I even wanted to post an update since ive been the queen of the Debby Downer club lately, but I guess I'll just share my reality.

I'm two years out today. It happens to be my birthday, and my re-birthday. I guess I'll never forget my surgery date.

In July of 2010, I began my WL journey when I tipped the scales at 420 lbs. I decided I needed to change my life, and began a year long journey to WLS - losing 85 lbs along the way.

I had surgery in 2011-  I was 335 on the day of surgery. I had a great first year. I did all sorts of stuff - races, bike rides, etc. I had a lot of fun and I was pretty happy, and did well on the WL side of things. I never did reach my goal though. A year ago I was 204 lbs. Today I was 209. It's hard to be happy about that, but in the grand scheme of thing, I can't really complain too much. Im a litle disappointed in myself from gaining weight from my lowest (188lbs), but the last 6 months have been incredibly difficult for me - physically with PS, and emotionally with a deep depression.

Up until last week, I was just sitting at home, wallowing in self pity, eating myself to death, but then I decided I wanted more from life. So, I started the Whole 30/paleo program and started getting out of my house to combat my depression.

I spent a great weekend remembering why I had WLS, celebrating the fact that I'm still healthy enough to do what I love. I went and swam in the ocean (in a sports bra and bikini bottom nonetheless but there are definitely no pics of that lol). I stopped by a little booth in Santa Monica so I could be on TV for some People's Court episode. I went ocean kayaking, and went ice skating. And stayed on my food program (which is hard when everyone wants to buy you a cake for your birthday).

So, I cant change the decisions I made in the last 6 months, but I can change what happens from here. Hopefully  next year, I'll be celebrating being at an eventual goal weight.

 

 

My TV appearance with my friend

  Ice Skating               Kayaking        

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Happy Birthday!!   Girl you look great in those pictures and am so glad to hear that you're back on track.  You have come so far and have are doing incredible work, ups and downs and all.  You've got this!!   Happy 30th!!

Your post made me want to cry. Not because it was sad... It's actually very beautiful yet very real. And for me, it's touched home. We both might have different struggles but they are struggles none the less.
I admire you. I look up to you. I think you are incredibly special. I think you have done amazing. People can relate to you because this **** ain't easy. For me, being overweight all my life, WLS did not cure squat. I wish everything in my life was bright eyed dreamy ponies & rainbows but it isn't. In the end, I realize that life can be beautiful ... It is beautiful & we can control what to make of it.
My life is more beautiful becuz you are in it. I am missing you a lot my friend.
I still know you are an amazing success story. You have accomplished so much more than most. You are my biggest inspiration on here & on this journey. Remember that my friend, that I look up to you, even with your challenges. I love you more for it.
Congratulations on a successful 2 year surgiversary. I see a happy beautiful young woman in you. xoxo

I think ive cried enough in the last couple months, I didnt need any help. You have been a huge part of my fight and not allowling me to just disappear. I love you sooooo much!

Happy birthday Allison! Pictures look great. Glad you are enjoying yourself! You look very happy keep it up and keep in touch.

Thanks - same goes to you missy!!!

Happy Birthday!! Love that you are keepin it real as usual.

I have followed your story from the beginning.....I can't say I know all the components.....or your struggles

When I think acbbrown I truly place you on the highest pedestal along with people like Jimbo and a few others that have gone beyond what this surgery is supposed to do.....Your accomplishments are just incredible and very inspirational....

Your voice is an important voice and needs to be heard..... this is not easy..... ***we talked about this at group tonight and Dr.C says that we don't give ourselves enough credit.

You are the real deal and thanks for keeping it real. 

Happy B-day !

frisco

Thanks to our screwed up brains, it's really easy to focus on the negative and not give ourselves enough credit. But a little kayaking and ice skating can definitely put things in perspective because there's no way I was doing that at 420 lbs. I appreciate all your support over the years.