Inspiration for pre-ops

I just wanted to share my story with some of you who may still be pre-op and wondering if WLS truly can help you. When I had my RNY in April of 2005, I weighed 325lbs and am only 5'3". That was a BMI of 57.5 I wore a 5XL shirt (which was tight) and size 34 pants (also tight) I had "extremely severe" sleep apnea, GERD (I took Nexium twice/day and still had reflux!), borderline high blood pressure, beginning deterioration in my knees, as well as just general malaise from being so ungodly fat! I was miserable. I had laparoscopic roux-en-y on 4-18-05 and within a week had lost not only all the fluid weight I had gained from the IVs (around 10lbs) but an additional 17lbs! I worked my tool, getting up and exercising as much as I could, eating protein first (well, ok, all I ate early out was protein, and still usually only eat protein!) and getting all my water in and I lost like you would not believe! Down 45lbs the first month! I am now almost 19 months post-op and have lost 204lbs since I had surgery, putting me at 121 with a BMI of 21.4! I am scheduled for surgery on Monday where the surgeon will also be performing a tummy tuck. I currently wear a size 3 pants in juniors or a size 0 in womens (which are loose) and a small shirt. I have energy, I feel great and I look good, too! Whenever you ask yourself "is this surgery really worth it?" you may have a different answer, but for me, the answer is a resounding YES!! --joanna 331/325/121/140 consult/surgery/current/goal

Thanks so much for the words of inspiration.Iam to have surgery on Dec 22nd and right now Iam a complete bundle of nerves.I Just want my life back.it helps so much when someone steps forward just to give encouragement.You have done so well and you look fabulous. Thanks You, Teresa

You've done a fabulous job, Joanna. Congratulations! Hugs, Tracy

Joanna, Thanks so much for posting about your success. How amazing! My surgery is scheduled in 12 days! (Dec 20) I am nervous, excited, scared, and excited. Sound familiar??? I am 369 and 5'4". I am ready to do what is needed to get my life back as I am so miserable. You were really an encouragement. Good luck with your tummy tuck. You so deserve this! Karen

Thanks guys for being so kind! You will all do just fine Just remember -- never compare your loss to someone else's unless you are losing more or faster!

You're story is truly inspiring. I'm scheduled to have the RNY on January 10 and I'm so excited. I can't think of a better way to start off the New Year. I'm ready for a new me and a new life. Congrats on your weight loss. I'm looking forward to being on the losing side real soon!