SmilinsShrinking
You all know the story... I was always a little bigger than the other kids. Luckily, I grew up a jock, playing soccer year round, as well as most school sports. That helped me stay in shape, but once I went to college, I kept eating the same, but didn't have 20+ hours of exercize a week to balance it. I was about 220 by 20 years old. I did Jenny Craig & got down to 200. Then, the weight crept back on and by the time I was 24, I had my child. I did really good about not gaining too much weight. But, afterwards, I gained steadily. I maintained at 303 for about 4 years. Then I went on Weight Watchers. I kicked some serious butt on their program. I lost over 102 pounds in about 9 1/2 months. I was walking in 5K & 10K walks. I even finished a triathalon!! (Not quickly, but I did finish)
Cut to 6 months later.. My Mom (My very best friend) was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. She went through chemo.. and radiation, just to have it come back a year later. Once, she beat it a second time, she found out that she had Lung Cancer. This time it wasn't beatable. While my rock went through the battles of her life, food was my comfort. Her health was my only focus. We lost her in Oct. of 2006. By the time I really dealt with losing the peanut butter to my jelly, I took a look in the mirror.. and was horrified. I knew that I had gained my weight back... I just didn't realize how many of the bonus pounds came with it.
There are so many fun things that I quit doing. Partially because I don't have the energy, and also because I don't fit into that world. My friends love me.. and have never judged me. Now they are my best cheerleaders as I move forward into this next chapter of my life. I know that the lapband is not going to be a cure all.... but it is a little less daunting having 200+ pounds to lose knowing that I have a little help.
I'm looking forward to moving more easily. Sleeping better. Going on trips. Playing with my daughter again. Flirting with men :) Lots & lots of little things that I let slip away from me, when I wasn't paying attention. This is an exciting time. I hope you come with me on the journey!
