I am not like most of you -- my experience with horses ends at a dude ranch over 20 years ago. But I've been thinking of going back to one with my son, and simply don't want the humiliation of being told I'm too fat -- I am 249 post-op. I was with a friend one time who was about 250 and when we went to a horseback riding place in California they refused to let him ride. Marla (4/21/05) HIGHEST 329/PRE-SURG 271/NOW 249/GOAL 150

I owned a horse for 17 years. We won many medals and ribbons in pleasure and green hunter, etc. When my children came along, I gained weight. I was not able to ride him for the last 7 years or so. My best friend kept him in shape. Even though I was glad she did, I was very envious. Finally when he was around 26 I had to put him "down" due to an injury. He couldn't stand - he was very wobbly. He looked like a drunken sailor. When he got down to roll, he had a very hard time getting up. He was a danger to himself and others working around him. The vet didn't know what the problem was without further testing. It was a very sad day when I said goodbye to an old friend. The worst part was that I did not get that "last" ride because of my weight. It's been 15 years since that day, and I still cry from time to time. I miss him very much. I live in New Jersey where board for horses is extremely expensive. Since I have two college aged daughters, I won't be buying a horse any time soon. But I hope to be back in the saddle with riding lessons and hacking from time to time. Maybe even finding a lease. My surgery is tentatively set for December 9, 2004 and I'm looking forward to getting back to riding and feeling that spiritual connection to one of the most beautiful creatures on earth. Wish me luck in my goal. God bless all of you and good luck with your horses.

Thanks Deb - I got the okay from my Dr. to go ahead and ride. I am going to get my gelding out of his pasture today and saddle him up. I will need to break the news to him that his retirement is over and I am back! Actually he has been bored so I think he will be happier now I know I will be. I have lost 25 lbs. and already feel soooo much better. I am hoping that I will be able to ride better and have better balance and more confidence. Thanks for your support, Lynn

Hi All - Well, I am 3 weeks post op and wondering when it will be okay to ride. Anyone know? I will ask my Dr. tomorrow but just wondering. I am so excited about being thin enough to feel good in the saddle again. WOW. I have a 2 year old that is just waiting for me to hurrry up and get on him. Cant wait!

Hi Anita! I am definitely a horse person! I have been riding since the age of 2! I am so passionate about horses! I raised and trained my own when I was just 11 years old. Unfortunately, I don't have any now, but you can bet that I will have another one some day! Welcome to CA and I am glad all is well with your ranch! Melissa