My name is Loni and I live in Hemet, California. I started my journey July 27th 2004 at 388lbs. I am sitting at 198lbs with about 20 lbs in skin to have removed, which wont happen until the doctors can figure out why my iron levels wont maintain. Other then the iron thing which I battled before my surgery I have had no complications along this journey. The thing I am finding with my weight is that it is redistributing, I have recently dropped pant sizes but the weight stays the same. I am a 2nd year teacher in Hemet, teaching Emotionally disturbed students and love every minute of it. I have 11 boys and 1 girl in my class and would not be able to do my job had I not lost my weight because there are days that I have to chase students and restrain them because they are being physically agressive. My life recently has changed dramatically because I am now a single mother of 4 which thank goodness for my weight loss because I don't think I could do it at my previous weight. It is very demanding but life is so much better. I cant wait for the summer to literally do nothing. I love teaching to have predetermined time off, plus get to spend a whole bunch of time with my kids. I look forward to staying in touch more Loni

tara thank god for instant messages cause i wouldnt hear from anyone on this july board which i was very active on pre and post op.....im glad we are chatting once in a while and kudos to you for maintaining.... it does get harder as we get further out so you must be working hard.... as many know i had been sick and saw the scale hit 119 and started getting a little worried im now back around 129 and 135 which is fine with me ill even take 140 im financially grounded right now and searching for a second job...... anyway im still greatful for the tool that has been given to me and use it MOST of the time wisely.... glad all is well with you ..... you think turning 7 is a big thing?? try teaching your 16 yr old to drive or trying to get him to tell me where he wants to go to college ugh.... not easy when you have no money!!!!! talk soon .... im always on and off... Stacy

Hi Tara I'm here, doing well and no problems or complications from my surgery. I too have gained 10 lbs; but really can't say that I need them. ;) But the good news is that I have been holding very steady at this weight and still feel great and no complaints or worries. I'm supposed to go today for my annual physical and bloodwork; but I have a sick kiddos today, so not sure if I'll make the appointment or not. We shall see. I've already had to reschedule once, so would prefer not to have to do so again. In general, life is just very busy for me now. I pop on and post when I can. Traci

Hey everyone!! I would love to see how everyone is doing. I am still living in Ohio and still at weight. Ihad actually gained 10 lbs but later realized I needed the 10lbs back. I am happy to say I ahve inspired a few friends to have the surgery and they ahve done well also!! I am dating but no one seriously at this point. Cassidy will be 7 in June and it is a true blessing to be able to play and do things with her. I love and miss everyone!! Tara

Happy Monday everyone I haven't weighed in a few days, so don't have a clue what the scale says. I've not been feeling well, so haven't been eating much - so maybe the scale will tip in my favor. My normal busy week for me this week. I do go to my PCP tomorrow for a physical and my bloodwork. So I'm curious to see how my levels are holding up. Have a great week! Traci