Happy 5-Year Surviversary to Me! :)
Hi All,
This forum was a lifesaver for me as I prior to, during and after my VSG journey. Now coming up on my five-year surgiversary, I don't visit here much at all anymore. But, I thought I'd post some thoughts and photos to inform and inspire those who are embarking on this journey. Posts from veterans were extremely helpful for me during a time when I wondered what life would be like post-surgery. I remember being filled with many questions.... How would I live with such a small stomach? Would life ever be normal? Would my hair stop falling out? Would I be one of the ones that the surgery didn't work for? Would I lose enough weight to ever wear clothes from a regular store?
Well, let me tell you.... life IS Normal. SO normal that 99.9% of the time I honestly forget that I ever had a VSG. Eating smaller portions is now the norm not the exception. I reached my goal a few years ago, gained about 15 pounds back and then lost 25 more, getting me to my ultimate goal. As everyone says, the first 18 months are the honeymoon period. After that you need to WORK to lose and maintain your weight!! I exercise. I eat extremely healthy. And, after several plastic surgeries for skin removal, I'm happy to say I now wear a size 4 (from a size 22)!
I said this before in one of my first blog posts... having VSG was hands down the BEST decision I've ever made in my life. I can't imagine being (and am so thankful for not being) still trapped in and prohibited by my prior body. I had been obese my entire life and always dreamed of being "normal". I remember thinking "if only I was thin, I would be happy". While that isn't true and I've learned that being thin doesn't automatically bring happiness, a great mate, success, etc., I can say life is MUCH easier, my mind is MUCH lighter, and my heart is MUCH more at peace.
So...to all who are embarking on this journey or recent post-ops, know that the struggles you may face early on will most likely resolve themselves and one day it'll all be a distant memory. I wish you the all the best!!
Congratulations, and thanks so much for posting your message. It's always great to hear from one such as yourself who is so far out from surgery!
5'8" HRW 357 on 7/09/12 SW 339 >196 8/26/13 (surgeon's goal) TWL 193 CW 164
*:•-:¦:-•:*1st pers. goal 178 on 10/16/13; ultimate goal 164 on 12/13/13*:•-:¦:-•:*
