Lynette1962

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 One year ago I was undergoing my RNY surgery @ Toronto Western Hospital, prior to my 2 weeks of Optifast I weighed in @ 227.5 with a BMI of 44.3.  I was wearing size 18W and was struggling to fit into my clothes but determined not to have to buy larger clothes.  I was diagnosed with high choloesteral, had high blood pressure, my resting heart rate was over 90 and was constantly aware of how I looked and felt about my body and body image. 

Today, one year later, I weigh 129.5 with a BMI of 25.1. I no longer have high blood pressure, high choloesteral, and my resting heart rate is in the mid 70's.  I walk with my head held high with confidence and can fit into a size 4 or 6.  I continue to lose weight although it has slowed down signficantly as maintaining is now my focus.  

I have lost a total of 98 pounds and I am very proud of myself.  
I am 2 pounds away from 100 pounds and .2 points away from a normal BMI. 

Things I have not eaten in the last year include:
-red licorise, allsorts and other previously beloved candy
-sugar free or regular pop
-ice cream cones OR sundae's from McDonalds (a regular staple to my pre-RNY surgery diet)
-Mento's (OMG was I addicted to these)
-I no longer crave Lay's BBQ potatoe chips and can have them in the house (yes I did try them - but didn't like them and only had 1 chip)
-chocolate and chocolate cookies (although I do love the chocolate protein bars)
-my love for peanut butter has all but diminished 

Things I still have difficulty eating include:
-steak
-chicken
-pasta (although I can eat lasagna)
-scrambled eggs (although I can eat hard boiled, quiche and fried)
-haven't tried pork products yet (not a big pork eater anyway)
-spicey foods still upset my pouch 

Things I have learned:
-chew, chew  and chew or my pouch will not be a happy camper
-food does not = happiness
-I do not need to buy everything that fits anymore
-I am glad that I took pictures along my journey and I encourage everyone to do the same (they speak volumes, especially when you are in a plateau phas)
-surrounding myself with support has made this journey much easier
-drinking water and liquids is VERY important
-listening to my body is VERY important, talk to the nurse when things don't feel right (I have been diagnosed with an ulcer and am now on medication - pouch is very happy now)
-RNY is a tool, I still have to make wise choices regarding what I eat, what I drink and whether or not I exercise

 Today I celebrate a decision that I made this day last year that will impact me for the rest of my life. I thank each and everyone of you that have encouraged and supported me during this journey....I am also full of emotion as I look at these pictures remembering the pain (both physically and emotionally) of being obese, the decision to have weight loss surgery and the ongoing daily decisions i make to fuel my body with healthy foods.