Ruth, You are so right. Let's all remember that statistically the RNY will lose 60-70% of EXCESS body weight. Therefore, anyone who meets that %age has achieved the standard weight loss as defined by the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeons and the National Institute of Health. When we surpass that standard we will fall into the elite group of "over achievers". I consider all of us to be in this group. There are many ways to measure our success, exclusive of number of pounds lost. Think of the health conditions that have been improved, if not eliminated. think of the future health risks that we've eliminated by weight reduction. As we grow "old" in post-op SWL years, keep on track and be thankful for all we've accomplished and for the additional years of life we have regained by improving our health. Here's of all of us!!!! Cheers

Mandy, you look BEAUTIFUL! That dress is stunning. And your boyfriend is very handsome, you make a very nice couple! Deanna

No offense is meant by this to anyone, and please don't take this the wrong way, but it is soooo frustrating to see others getting to their goal and some of us being stuc****ven though I am sooooo proud of them for doing well) BUT...as has been said, we need to look at this in perspective and see just how far we have come and be proud of ourselves, while still keeping our eyes on where we want to get to.

You look amazing and I am so happy for you. The world is just coming together so well for you. Graduating, teaching, weight loss and a man.. how can you top that. Don't worry about us.. we miss you too, but GIRL... get out there and live that life.. I am so proud and happy for you. Take care Carla

YAY!! Good for you Kathryn Great way to look at your amazing acheivement so far - glad the support group helped. It is so easy to get down on ourselves when we haven't reached the goal we have set for ourselves isn't it. I'm frustrated as I always imagined myself at a size 10 with the body of a teenager - I am now beginning to realise how improbably the goal is. I am a size 12 - 14 and loo****in clothes) You have reminded me to look at myself how others see me - as someone who is the right weight, not overweight, even though I know the reality that according to some 'scientist' chart I am sitll overweight. I've been eating halloween candy - but I have enjoyed it, whereas before wls I would probably not even tasted most of it You're right Kathryn, we CAN do this, and I'm sure you do look DAMN good too!!!