One year ago today...

Its hard to believe that a year has already passed by on this incredible journey. I want to thank you guys for all the great information and support that you have provided me. I don't post here that often but I do read this forum daily usually multiple times each day. You guys have unknowingly been key to keeping me focused and a large part of my success. Although I have been disappointed (putting it lightly) with the actions of OH staff the last few days, I will continue to come here for support from you guys despite of them. Now for a little reflection... One year ago Vs. Today Then: 6'  359lbs. 64inch stomach, tight 4XLT shirt, size 50 x 29 pants Today: 6'  199lbs  41inch stomach, loose L shirt, size 34 x 32 pants Overall health BP Meds                                                                                           Gone CPAP- lifesaver for me, but extremely annoying                       GONE!!!!!!!!!! Beggining stages of arthritis in my knees at age 28              Mostly Gone  Self Esteem Then:Lets just say it was low                 Now: I don't take crap from anyone not even OH staff! Sex Life Then: Painfully difficult with 200lbs of extra weight     Now: Wife had surgery 1 month after mine, sex has gone from 5-6 times per year to 4-5 times per WEEK (need I say more?)  Exercise Then: Got winded walking 25 yards from car to my office Now: routinely walk 4-5 miles barely breaking a sweat (I'm in Texas, sweat is inevitable!) General Then: Unable to play on the floor with our toddler for any length of time Now: Daughter enjoys riding her horse i.e. Daddy's back I still have about 15 lbs until I reach my goal, as those of you who have gone before me know, the last few pounds come off painfully slow considering in the early stages I could drop 15lbs in a week without even thinking about it. Nonetheless they are slowly coming off.  Many of you guys have been my inspiration and again I want to thank you for contributing to my success.

Wow, every one of those are so great! Amazing job!!! Keep up the great work!

Awesome!!

Cool Beans. Keep up the good work. 

Cameron, Thanks for sharing the comparisons.  I'm a loooong way back, in the early info-gathering stages, still trying to negotiate the gauntlet of insurance coverage, which procedure, which surgeon, and so on. It's encouraging to hear your results, just confirms how life-changing this can be. I'm also about 6'1", 370, and can't even imagine ME at 199... Good on ya!

I hoped, but didn't know if I would ever get below 200. I had a mental goal before I started this journey to just make to to 225-215. I figured I would end up with a 38-36 inch waist. Now it seems that I will most likely be a 33 or 32 which still boggles my mind. I didn't have the surgery just to drop clothes sizes, but it is honestly one of the most exciting "side effects" of the surgery (along with the list I mentioned earlier). Best of luck to you on your journey, and don't get discouraged in this initial phase, its probably the most difficult part besides the "what the hell did I get myself into" phase immediately after surgery.

great going, man! battling, al

Great List! Keep it Up! Best Wishes- Dx

Impressive! Enjoy the new life.