Boogaloo

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Hi All,

Yes, you can tell by the title of this post that I am celebrating my 10 year surgiversay.  Ten years ago I took a dramatic step towards health and wellness through weight loss and bariatric surgery.  I lost 120 lbs post surgery (and 16 lbs preparing for surgery).  I lost over 100 inches.  I also lost my fear of walking into a room and worrying that others would judge me because of my size.  I lost my fear of trying new things for fear that I wouldn't be able to physically accomplish them.  I lost my fear of adventure, in fact I now embrace new adventures.  I teach exercise classes, I travel, and I discovered that I love hiking, biking, kayaking, and more. 

I am writing today because this site was so critical to my early success.  I had so many questions and the folks on this site had such great wisdom and knowledge.  Everyone was kind, supportive and generous of spirit.  I am writing today because I hope my story can help even one person who is scared or struggling.  I am writing today for the newby that is wondering what the future might bring, or the veteran who is slipping back into old (pre surgery) habits. 

This isn't always easy. I have had to admit that I have a very unhealthy relationship with food and I sometimes find myself slipping back into old/presurgery habits.  When I do, I gain weight.  I now understand more than ever what everyone meant when they said the surgery is just a tool  I have to do the work.  Most times I do, sometimes I dont.  

Where ever you are on your journey, don't give up, reach out to others when you struggle, love yourself and know that you are beautiful and worthy of all the happiness in the world - now go out and get it!

Much love,

Lou 

May 15, 2011 - Five Years - Where Has the Time Gone!
So, here I am - five years post-op and I wish I had something profound to say but I really don't.  I met with my surgeon on Friday and he said that my bloodwork was as good as it could be and that he couldn't be happier with my results - he said I am whole new person - and it's true!

For those of you who don't know me, my story goes a little like this...Since my surgery, I have lost 117 lbs (and 133 since I began the process).  I lost over 100 inches and now teach Zumba, Spinning, Pilates and Aerobics.  I have completed my graduate degree and kayaked the ocean in Hawaii.  I back-pack, hike, bike and spent two weeks in Italy over the Christmas holidays and didn't gain a pound!!!!!

So, here's the secret - THERE IS NO SECRET.  I do what my doctor told me... protein, protein, protein, water, water, water, AND exercise.  Nothing has changed - the changes I made after my surgery are now my lifestyle.  If I do anything differently, I will gain weight and I don't want that.  I recognize the surgery as the tool that it is and I don't take my weight loss for granted.  There is an old expression, "if you always do what you always did, you'll always get what you always got"  and that's the truth.  If I return to my old way of living, rely on food for comfort, entertainment, sitting on the couch watching television, etc.. I will not be happy with the results.

So on Friday at my 5 Year Post Surgery appointment, my doctor put down my chart, sat down and asked me to reflect on the changes in my life since the surgery and I rattled off the list above, but what I didn't tell him was this:

- I no longer cry in the dressing room of departments stores, filled with self loathing and shame, when I try on clothes
- I no longer walk into a room assuming people are negatively judging me because of my obesity
- I don't avoid parties and other events because I am ashamed of my size
- I don't try and overcompensate for my weight by trying to get everyone to love me

I am writing today because I can't help but be reflective on this anniversary and because this site meant so much to me while getting through that first year.  I can only hope that this note can be of some motivation/inspiration to someone who is new or struggling in their journey.  Where ever you are in this journey, know that you are so beautiful, that you have done something wonderful for yourself and that this site is just filled with wise, knowlegeable, sand wonderful people who understand what you are going through and support you unconditionally. 

And finally, I write today to again thank all of you who helped me along this journey with your support, grace and generosity. I remain humbled by this site and its members.

Good luck in all you do,
Love & Happiness,

So yesterday was my four year surgiversary and I had meant to post but I had so much to do! My morning workout, then a birthday party, then a wedding and finally a concert. 

I still remember sitting in my house recovering from my surgery and finding this site.  It was so helpful to me and I can honestly say that I wouldn't have gotten through that first year without it and all of the wonderful, supportive, amazing people that answered my silly questions and shared their experiences and knowledge. 

But even then, I remember wondering where the long timers were - where were the folks who had their surgeries 4, 5, 6 or even 10 years ago?  At that time I promised myself I would make sure to continue to contribute, even in some small way, forever so that the newbies would know that it can work for the long haul.  Now here I am, I haven't been on this site in so long and I apologize for as much as I have gained from this site, I have not returned. 

So, here's my story.  I lost 120 pounds and more than 100 inches... I am a certified group fitness, Pilates and Zumba instructor and I am going for my spinning certification this month.  My son asked me to train and run the marathon with him, and while I don't think I will, it was certainly something no one would've asked me five years ago!

But most of all, I don't have the self loathing that comes with horrible body self-image - I think back on those days and the thoughts that ran through my head about myself and it makes me a little sad for anyone who is struggling with their weight thinking less of themselves for it. 

So, I just want to say that no matter where you are in this struggle you are beautiful!!!! I want to thank all of you who have supported and inspired me with your grace and generosity and I want remind you that I am here if you need me.
Love and Happiness,
Lou