Hi there!

Howdy, I started out with a BMI of 51.1 and Now I'm at 23.8 per the calculation - but I have also had my TRUE lean mass measured by underwater weighing and it's 20.5. Back when I was 400 lbs I NEVER expected to get to this point. I've worked really hard, and been very blessed to have a smooth recovery and losing process. I've been at goal for 4.5 months now, and it's absolutely astounding. When I first started all this I really believed that I would stop losing at 260. Then I fully expected to stop at 215. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would get to 190! I've started running and I'm LOVING it! I'm in training for a 10 mile race in October. The running is actually threatening to help me lose a bit more. I find myself having to be careful to eat enough calories on my running days. I just wanted to say "Hey" to my people - the Super crew. And to anyone who's pre-op - I'm living proof that if you are blessed to have no complications, exercise daily, and follow your surgeon's rules (or at least pouch rules) that you can achieve anything you set your mind to. Wishing all the best, ~Lara 400+/190@goal (scale said 188 this morning) 6'3" tall

Wow, congrats Lara! I'm still preop, and can't wait to get to the other side! I'd love to take up running, but not sure my joints will ever take that... we'll see

Thanks Kat, My first year the exercise was walking. I wanted to make sure to be as merciful to my body as I could (atoning for years of abuse). Once I hit goal, my dr agreed that I was clear to begin running. I do have stretches I have to do to help my lower back (alignment issues from the hanging skin). Dream big, because if you can imagine it - you can achieve it. Big hugs, ~Lara

Lara, WOW!!! You are amazing...and such an inspiration! Congratulations on your successful journey!

Congratulations I hope to say I'm on the losing side soon. What an inspiration and light of hope you are with your smooth journey through surgery and recovery and life on the losing side. Keep up the good work Anita

Thanks, Lara! I'm working very hard to try to make my dreams come true too. I saw someone on the main messageboard mention that she is competing in triathalons now. Who would've thought that would be possible for a former member of the morbidly obese population? Between the two of you, I'm truly beginning to think I can do this! Julie

Lara, This is truly the inspiration I need. I just keep having a hard time believing I will actually get to your weight someday. Lori 384/323.5/170