WOW - 14 months already? (kinda long)

I have certainly had a LOT of changes happen to me in the last 14 months since my surgery. I haven't been posting as much the last few weeks because of a personal issue I was going through - but I want you all to know that I haven't stopped thinking about everyone and wanted to let you know that I am forever greatful to all of the very special friends that I have in my life. There have been many ups and downs since my surgery - but I wouldn't change having done this for anything in my life. Nothing is ever easy and there are no promises in this world - but I know my time here has been greatly improved through the skills I have learned from having had this surgery. I intend to carry that through the rest of my life!!!! 14 Months ago I couldn't have done all of the things I have been able to do to date. Some of those things are fitting into a size 12 (yeah - it's ONE pair and they're stretchy...but they are 12's!), weighing 165 lbs, loosing 180+ lbs! Riding roller coasters again, walking without a 10 minute stop every few mintues for being out of breath, exercise, becoming a certified fitness instructor, SMILING without my eyes disappearing, realizing that I actually look like my MOM and not my dad as I had thought for so many years, sitting in a booth at a restaurant, crossing my legs, being able to play with my neice and nephew and not just sitting back to watch, having men honestly compliment you - without ulterior motives (well...some of them still do! ), seeing all the exercise you do show up in the muscle definition that has abound from the layers of fat you used to have!, BEING EVER GRATEFUL TO THE GOOD LORD ABOVE FOR THE BELSSINGS HE HAS BESTOWED UPON ME THROUGH FAMILY AND FRIENDS! Learning to fall in love and allow yourself to get hurt by it - but realize the next man is just around the corner because I actually can attract a man now for more than just a 'physical' reason, realizing that I'M WORTH IT!!!!!!!!! My mind set is now completely different than what it used to be. This surgery does change you physically.....and it's a fantastic change...but it also changes you mentally. I can't even really describe all the ways I've changed for the better. I hope all of the pre-ops and newly post-ops out there have fun enjoying all the changes they will be going through. I know the "regular" members here I have enjoyed being able to participate in their lives and their enjoyments and struggles through this journey. I truly wish happiness and love to all of you - and I want to remind you to live one moment at a time because happiness if found in every moment. Live each day as if it's your last and let everyone know you love them as often as you can tell them. BE HAPPY!!!!! I know I am - even with the trials and tribulations of life...I know in the end I will have the greatest reward ever waiting for me! Much (and I seriously mean that!) Dee Dee (Sorry for thing being so long......but I needed to get that out!)

DeeDee, that was beautiful!!! I'm fighting back tears and i have chill bumps on my arms. I'm so happy for you.

Aww Deedee What a beautiful post !! Thanks for sharing with us.

Thank you - I appreciate the kind words!

Dee Dee, you could have gone on for several pages, as far as I am concerned! Wow, what an encouragement to the rest of us. I am 66 and care for my husband - 73 and early Althimers - and my mother - 88 and congestive heart failure - so it's so easy to get discouraged and think "why am I even trying, my life is almost over". Then I read something like your post and it gives me the thought that there could be some good years out there for me. It's hard to go to the gym and see all the trim young ladies and know you're the oldest one there. I'm so impressed that you've become a personal trainer, because you of all people will understand how a seriously out of shape and overweight person feels. (I didn't mean to imply that you are old, just sensitive to others). I hope you will continue to post, as the encouragement of you and Tami and Becky and the others who have been so successful is more meaningful than a room full of doctors. God bless each of you shower you with more happiness than you thought immaginable. Barb in S. GA

I KNOW exactly what you're going through with taking care of loved ones. I spent from the time I was 21 till my mom passed away almost 2 years ago. She had everything under the sun - so I know what it is to feel like it's almost too much to handle. I hope you know that if you ever need a shoulder to cry on or an ear to listen to stories that we're only a click away here! If I help even ONE person here then I feel like I'm even more of a sussec than I could hope to ever be! Thank you so much for the kind words....I hope you know that I am here for everyone...anytime! Dee Dee

Dee Dee, you are such an inspiration. You have transformed so much and you are a very beautiful lady (you were before as well) and I just want to thank you for your post as I look forward to the Journeys/acomplishments that you have done. Hugs, Melissa

Thank you so much Melissa....I'm so excited for you that you've come as far along in your journey as you have! You'll be on the loosers side soon!!! For the first time in life you'll be GLAD to be called a big looser!!! I'm praying for you!!!! You'll be there soon! Dee Dee

Thank you Dee Dee, I'm hoping once I have my psych eval on August 12th. that I will be able to faxed my things in by the next week and hopefully Insurance won't take to long. The only thing is DH will be taking a week vacation when I have this done, and he has to let them know 3 weeks in advance, so maybe they will give me a date that far out so he can get the time off. Hugs, Melissa

May I suggest something? With the time element you need you can possibly request a date so that you can ensure your husband can take the time off necessary. It's just a thought! Keep us posted!