:) Cross post from over 50 BMI forum

 Posted this in the over 50 BMI forum, but I figure people here will still get it. 

 So since my BMI was 51.7(283lbs at 5'2) when I started this, I'll post here. Right now I'm still over 50, but barely. It's 50.2. 

I never considered myself SMO when looking in the mirror, but looking in pictures is when I could really tell how much bigger I was than I thought. Pictures that other people took of me anyway. When I take pics of myself, it was always at an angle where you couldn't tell I was that big, and it restored my confidence... but then I would see a real pic of me, and couldn't believe it. Then I look at the numbers, and seeing I'm in the SMO category, was a wake up call. It was also a confirmation I'm making the right choice for me at this time in my life. Being that I have a very small frame, carrying this weight is a bit painful. And I'm exhausted. Nobody gets it, and I always have people calling me lazy. Im lazy now, but its only because I'm so tired all the time. My sleep problems cause me to be sleepy all day then I have to carry all this weight. My back and my knees and especially my feet hurt alot. 

I know it will be hard, but my non official goal is 130. I hope I can go to 120 to have a cushion for regain. But I will be happy as long as I can be healthy and play with my children without feeling like I'm going to die or pass out. :)

You can do this, you can play with your children. Follow the plan, and stick around. Getting support helps.

Yes, and if it wasn't for this forum, I'd be lost in that area. Not a lot of people around here get it, but at least they aren't against it. :) Thanks Cynthia!

You can do this !!!

You can do this -- 

I am 5'5" and I was 347 pounds -- a whopping 57 BMI.

Your feelings are a lot like mine were and your goal is definitely attainable.

Love to you.  You're worth it.

Omg what an inspiration! Thank you so much and you look amazing! 

Woah !!! You were still beautiful but what a change ! Congratulations on your success

My highest recorded weight was 314, so I do get it. My feet and knees often ached, and a day doing yardwork would require a day of recovery.

It seems daunting, but it's  completely doable. We all had doubts.

When I was a brand new post op, I felt everyone ahead of me knew a magical WLS secret I didn't. Over time I realized the 'secret' was that we all struggle. The people who are successful keep going on. Some days it is easy peasy, some days it is hard, but we can always correct our course and keep on.

Best of luck. You can do it.

Thank you! I love this community, so much support! 

Hey there!  You are going to do great!

I literally avoided looking at myself at my highest and still have a mental block when it comes to remembering my BMI at the top but it was just over 60, I think. (5 foot 3.5inches , 361 lbs) 

I get it! Yes, the pain, ALWAYS the pain and exhausted, too.  I never complained about it cuz I knew it was my "fault" for getting so heavy.  I am sure that many, including family, thought I was simply lazy.  

Well, no more.  Weight is gone, pain is gone, I am super active.  And, I can fully participate as a mom without worrying about my body somehow getting in the way.  Makes me little teary to think about that :)

Everyone's journey is different.  Be patient.  But, I tell ya, you are going feel great!

Shel