9 Years Later

Some days it's difficult to believe it's been 9 years since I had WLS and other days it seems like yesterday.  I've reflected a lot this week on what today means to me.....it's been quite emotional maybe more than any other year. 

I've had some major life changes since 2005 from a job loss, moving, a new job, selling a house, buying a house, divorce, losing my father.  I'm THANKFUL everyday for having the determination and confidence to get through all of this without losing myself and who I am, what I've become.  Even those challenges helped me grow and realize how much self-worth I have now.

It's been fairly easy and consistent for me with the exception of late 2007 when I lost my job and moved.  We lived with my MIL and although I love her to pieces (I still consider her family) living with someone was not fun.  I sorta got complacent at that time and regained up to 137 lbs (and this could possible be just because of the timing after wls, yanno between year 2-3).  It took me about 2 months to get back below 130 lbs which I was determined to do.  I've maintained since. 

Do I ever worry?   Of course I do, weight gain is something I fear like most of you but I'm a fighter and will fight to the end if I have to.  I won't keep my head in the SAND *wink, wink* and act like everything is fine.  As I've said many times "Never say never", or "XXX lbs gone forever".  We never know, we just have to keep on fighting.

I'm thankful for no complications, although I've had some vitamin issues that had to be adjusted and corrected and I've had two rounds of iron infusions.  I still struggle many days drinking enough water but I don't stop trying.  I take my vitamins pretty faithfully, yes I miss some especially on the weekends when my routine changes yet I will not stop taking them and I want to be even more compliant this year.

To all of you starting your research, do your research on all surgeries.  Read everything you can get your hands on, talk to others that have been there done that.  There is more knowledge today on living life after WLS....thankfully I remained active in the WLS because I shiver thinking what shape I'd be in today if I hadn't followed the new knowledge you all have at your fingertips now.

To all of you that are in your first couple of years optimize your window of opportunity.  You can rock your surgery RIGHT NOW if you follow a great, nutritionally based eating plan.  Do no believe what you experience the first 2 years is forever, it's not you can read these boards and see how things change.

And to all my long-term vet sisters and brothers that have been around forever, my heart is so full of love and appreciation for all of you that continue to pay it forward.

XOXO

Dana
Consult Weight 260 lbs

Surgery Weight 239 lbs

Goal Weight 130 lbs

Today 122.4 lbs

PS --- my first full length selfie, LMAO, my coworker took pictures for me and had a family situation to deal with today and wasn't going to be here to get me the pictures.  But hey at least my cabinet is clean

Yay for the clean mirror and vanity...lol.

Awesome job. Good for you for continuing to take care of your health even when real life gets in the way. No excuses, right??

ETA: You need to change your signature to 9 years out.

You didn't just lose weight, you lost 20 years!!!  WOW you look awesome!  Congratulations, and thanks for showing us newbies that if you work hard, you can maintain.  I'm so impressed.  

I thought the same thing!! Looks atleast 20 years younger!! Kudos!! 

Thank you for sharing this morning.Your story made me a little teary eyed.You  said so many encouraging things.I know your past hasn't been easy.But telling us how you survived and kept your weight off helped me this morning. 

I am only 4 months out and I do worry even though I follow protein first then veggies than a starch. I just read so  many posts about people gaining all of their weight back which that scares the heck out of me.Which it should.

You showing how you made it through some difficult times.Has given me hope that if I follow what I am supposed to do the weight will come off.Also after I stop losing that it is possible to keep it off with following my plan.

Great work Dana. Thanks for taking the time and effort to be here for all of us. You are a fantastic example.

Thanks for your post. It is so encouraging to hear that maintenance is possible so far out from surgery.

Thank you, and congratulations on your success.  And, thank you for sticking around here to guide those behind you.  Your pictures are so inspiring, and I love your statement about "who youv'e become".  I am beginning to feel like and see the person I want to become.  

Thanks again, 

~barbara

I agree with dcgirl. its looks like a mother and daughter next to each other. you look amazing. congrats on doing so well.

Dana - I can't tell you how proud I am of you! You are such a treasure and inspiration to all of us. Thank you so much for everything you do (((HUGS)))...