KAATNS

Once you are cleared by your doctor and feel well enough, you should be able to do any kind of exercise you like. I was back on the treadmill about 2 weeks after surgery. Best wishes to you!

From www.mamalaughlin.com I am a Runner There was a time when I doubted even calling myself a runner. Sure, I ran, but I was doing it for weight loss purposes, so I didn't feel like I was a TRUE runner. I felt like a poser. I thought I'd just lose the weight and then be able to stow my Brooks and never run again. How wrong I was. Because I found a passion for something I was never even looking for. It took me until after my first half marathon to really consider that title legit. Today, I am a runner. I am a runner because I run. Because when I'd rather sit on the couch, I lace up and head out. Because at 4pm every day my legs are bouncing up and down, itching for the pavement. Because one day I decided I wanted to run, having never ran before. So I committed. And I ran. And when I first started I could barely run for a whole minute without stopping. But I kept on. Day after day I laced up and headed out. And with each new mile I ran I felt empowered and a sense of pride I'd never felt before. And now I can run for close to 3 hours without stopping. I am a runner. Because it's hard. Because I love knowing there are only a select few people that can do what we do. Because I've got the tan lines to prove it. Because the rhythmic sound of my feet on the pavement is far better than any amount of therapy. Because I can clear my head when pounding it out. Because when sweat is dripping off my forehead and into my eyes, I am proud. I am a runner. Because I've worked my way up. Because it's made my ass jiggle less and my legs stronger. Because I cried the first time I ran 10 miles without stopping. Uncontrollable tears poured down my face and my entire body was covered in goosebumps thinking about what I'd just done. How I was amazed at what my body was capable of. How I was thankful to be able to do things I never imagined I could. I am a runner. Because I'm not a mom, or a maid, or a chauffeur, or a cook, or a wife when I'm out there- I'm a runner. Because when some people would give up when feeling weak, I keep going. Because I push through when I want to stop. Because just thinking of crossing the finish line of another race gives me chills. Because if it weren't for running, I'd be lost. Because I'm not the skinniest or the fastest, but I damn sure try my hardest. Because I dread the actual RUN... until I get out there. Because I love a challenge. I am a runner. Because when I cross off my weekly runs in red marker I feel like a rockstar. Because running gear makes me happy. Because I think Sports Beans are the best Jelly Beans there are. Because I get excited about a new pair of Brooks. Because I don't focus on time or distance, but rather just FINISHING. Because I search for Runner's High. Because I've had to work my butt off to do so. Because through running I've inspired people to want to better themselves. To know it's possible to push your body to extremes you never imagined. Because through running I found myself again. If you run, you are a runner. No matter what distance. Or for how long, or how often. It doesn't matter if you're the fastest or the slowest. The skinniest or the fattest. If you run, you are a runner. Don't let anyone tell you different. Today, I am a runner. Because I run.

Well now that made me smile! Congrats on your new love!

That's wonderful! Enjoy yourself.

That's awesome!

"You are beautiful. Your beauty, just like your capacity for life, happiness, and success, is immeasurable. Day after day, countless people across the globe get on a scale in search of validation of beauty and social acceptance. Get off the scale! I have yet to see a scale that can tell you how enchanting your eyes are. I have yet to see a scale that can show you how wonderful your hair looks when the sun shines its glorious rays on it. I have yet to see a scale that can thank you for your compassion, sense of humor, and contagious smile. Get off the scale because I have yet to see one that can admire you for your perseverance when challenged in life. It’s true, the scale can only give you a numerical reflection of your relationship with gravity. That’s it. It cannot measure beauty, talent, purpose, life force, possibility, strength, or love. Don’t give the scale more power than it has earned. Take note of the number, then get off the scale and live your life. You are beautiful!” Steve Maraboli, Life, the Truth, and Being Free

Way to go! You got this.

Congrats! Wishing you a speedy recovery.

Glad you're feeling better! And P.S.- the ignore option is a wonderful thing.

Yes, this.

Seeing a picture and not recognizing myself in it followed by some bad lab results.

Hey there! I got 3.5 the first time. Hope you're having a good day.

I would wait on the peer to peer review then. If denied after that, I would appeal for sure. Good luck!

I would probably appeal their decision, which will force them to take a closer look at it. Did a doctor sign off on the nurse visits? Maybe submit the doctor's letter with your appeal letter. Good luck!!

You ladies are making me a little jealous!

Hello and welcome!

Yay you did it! Happy for you friend.

Well that's cute....and yes it will be all your fault if they fall.

You're a beautiful woman, you probably feel great about yourself (which you should) and enjoying life...not a darn thing wrong with that! Enjoy it while you can pretty lady. Hopefully you've got a special person in your life who can help with your....um....needs.

I would recommend calling your doctor.

My biggest fear was NOT getting the help I needed. For me, the rewards outweigh the risk and I find most of my support right here on this site.

One word. Yes.

Hello and welcome! From my experience in the healthcare industry, if an insurance company doesn't cover the surgery, it doesn't matter who writes a letter on your behalf regardless of the condition. Is the surgery specifically excluded or did you not qualify? There is a difference. Good luck to you!

I'm happy with my choice so far. Although there have been some days that I could have thrown in the towel, I'm not going to because this is WORTH IT to me and I'm willing to work through the bad days to reach my goal. Trust me, this is NOT easy and sometimes its just plain hard work, but so worth it. I'm so grateful for the friends I've made here that encourage me along the way as well. Best wishes on your journey.

It is a hard thing to wrap my head around too. I love being able to shop in the ladies department instead of the plus sizes. So many more options!