Five years post op.  I am happy to report I am healthier, happier and enjoying life.

Losing the weight was the first step.  Learning to cope in life without food as a source of comfort was the next step.  Much harder.  Some days are better than others.  I have one of those transfer addictions so I am working on that portion of my life.

I am within five pounds of my absolute lowest weight which was 157.  My surgeon thought I should be able to get to 180.  I roam around 160 for the last three years.  I am content.

I finally started exercising this year.  I wish I had done more toning early on but it didn't happen.

I am faithful with my vitamins.  I eat protein first.  I can eat most any protein or vegetable.  I choose to avoid sugar, soda and too much fruit.  I am diabetic and still medicated but it is in very good control now.

Someday I may consider plastic surgery but it is a serious conversation.  I have healing issues and infection worries due to RNY and diabetes so it is a grave consideration in my heart.

It is a plan for life.  Stay focused on your health ~ the great shape comes along for the ride!  I weigh less now than when I graduated from high school over thirty three years ago.

I am proud to be a success story.

 I started my journey at 376lbs, got down to 172 around 2 years post-op and maintained there.  I felt so free!  I had tons of energy and newfound confidence.  At almost 4 years post-op, I had a baby and gained 15lbs.  I did lose the baby weight, but became really complacent and regained 26lbs.  I'm slowly making my way back.to where I once was.

Well Janet I agree at 5 years it is nice to figure out what every one is doing.  As for myself I have meet goal after goal I started this journey weighing almost 400 pounds now I am around 180.   I hit stable for a long while then over the last year just dropped a bunch at once.  As far as excercisng I am doing Kung Fu San Soo 4 days a week.  I do live a totaly different life I am more active and out going.  I feel so much better about me and love the fact that i will get to see my kids grow up.  As of 09/29/10 I did my first plastic surgery for skin removal from my stomach.

Does anyone out there know if Tri Care Military Insurance cover any plastic surgery. I've checked the web site and find no mention of plastic surgeons and when I call i'm put on hold forever...any help ya'll could give me on this matter would be greatly appreciated

I had no idea what this journey would be like, but so far, almost 4 years later, it has been incredible!  I am down to my goal weight of 125 lbs. for over 3 years now and have a daily routine of walking 4-6 miles, eating lots of protein and trying to stay away from the carbs, going to gastric support groups, going to Weigh****chers to learn a new lifestyle, etc., and it all seems to be working so far.  I still hold my breath each time I get on the scale and there are a lot of old habits that still need breaking, but I feel great, haven't had any problems, other than my appetite seems to have come back over the past year.  I don't know what keeps me going, other than the fact that NOTHING TASTES AS GOOD AS THIN FEELS!  As far as relationships and emotions are concerned, I have lost a few friends over the past few years as a direct result of my new lifestyle.  I still have the same husband of 31 years.  He has been extremely supportive and makes sure I have a fresh bottle of Crystal Light every morning instead of a cup of coffee.  I am now addicted to walking instead of food and that makes me feel great.  I look and feel like a totally different person and that's a little weird, but I welcome this and I know I'll get used to it eventually.  When I was told about gastric bypass 4 years ago, I didn't stop to think about the potential consequences regarding family and relationships, etc.  I was so miserable and depressed that I just wanted to change for the better.  I take each step as it comes, but I'm learning to be prepared for anything!  I have a great attitude about life now and have tons of energy.  Best wishes to everyone and keep posting!  It's so important to read what others, who have been out a while, have to say.

Wantstowin2