One year ago today...

One year ago today, I attending the general information meeting on weight loss surgery.  I was 385 pounds and I had decided I needed to do something.  My life was constricting around me.  I was getting agoraphobic.  I was afraid I'd be forced to stand or walk longer than I was comfortable.  I was afraid I wouldn't find a chair that fit me, or that I'd have to deal with disapproving looks from strangers.  I was 64 years old, and I was getting less mobile and less active.  My life was a downward spiral and I had to do something.

At the meeting, the surgeon said they had one more appointment for the initial consultation for that week, and I called first thing in the morning, and got that appointment. At that appointment, they put me on the post-vsg diet, and this started my weight loss journey.

This has been a fairy-tale story.  I weighed in this morning at 216 pounds.  I lost 169 pounds in 1 year, and I feel just great.  This is the best thing I've ever done for myself.  If you are considering the surgery, I want to encourage you to do so.  You don't need to let the obesity define you any longer.  You deserve to be healthy and happy. 

Here are a few words of wisdom for those starting out.

1. Any weight you lose before the surgery will be a bonus later on. 
2. Follow your plan.  The surgery is only a tool. it makes the weight loss possible but it doesn't make it automatic or easy.  You've got to do the work.
3. Set reasonable expectations.  This is not a sprint, its a marathon.  I see so many people ( including me) who set expectations that they will lose immense amounts of weight quickly.  But its more typical to see slow and steady weight loss.  15 pounds a month is still 90 pounds in 6 months and 180 pounds in a year! 
4. Enjoy the  trip.  It really works.

Best wishes,

Carol

What an inspiration, Carol.  This is a great post. I totally related to your feelings of fear and being trapped. Great way to start the week! 

thank you for your kind words. 

best wishes,

Carol

Oh, Carol!  I have so enjoyed sharing this journey with you this past year.  We have literally kicked butt!, haven't we, all for being part of the older set.  Whoo-hoo-you.  I bow down low in your ever so slim direction.  S/o well done.  Life for the living, and we are.  You are queen for the day.  Enjoy the happiness you have worked so hard for.  Smiles, Bonnie

Hi Bonnie,

I agree.  I'm concluding that there is nothing old about being 65!  I feel so energized and empowered.  Thank you so much for your many kindnesses.  You are a treasure.

Carol

Great inspiration for this morning. I am planning to take all advice given in this process. I'm currently waiting approval and ready. Thanks

I'll look forward to your post a year from now detailing your many successes!  Good luck with your weight loss journey.

Carol

Way to go Carol! You are a huge inspiration to so many of us!!

Thanks for your kind words.  Best of luck with your WL Journey!

Carol

Congratulations to you, Carol!  I'm betting you had NO idea how much your life would change or improve when you started down this path.  We all are really clear on what we don't want in our lives anymore so it's such a gift to find the new blessings coming our way.  

Thanks for being such a loyal poster and keeping all our spirits up!