keygotergrovebk

I haven't posted in several months but I wanted to post an update to my Gastric Sleeve story.
My surgery was July 12, 2013. I am 5'8" tall and at that time I weighed 296 lbs., and wore a size 3X or 22-24 women's.
Today, April 12, 2014, is 9 months from my surgery and I've lost 76 lbs. At 220 lbs., I fit in size 1X or 16 women's.
I would like to lose between 40 and 60 lbs. more by September of this year. My ultimate goal would be 147 lbs - a size 10. However, I will feel totally successful and satisfied to get to 170 lbs - a size 12.
I lost nearly every bit of my weight the first four months after surgery and have been at 220 lbs. since then.
I am enjoying this new weight and all that it has done for me.
I no longer have to use a CPAP for obstructive sleep apnea. I have no more heel or foot pain, very little knee pain, almost no more back pain. I have no more acid reflux. Even more good news is that I like looking in the mirror again. I can shop in normal size clothing stores. I am not embarrassed when I go out with my family and friends. I get very encouraging comments from people who have watched me go through this process.
I do sometimes get frustrated that I'm not losing any more weight currently, however, I am most often optimistic that I will continue to both enjoy my current good health as well as moving forward to meet my weight loss goals. Slowly but surely.
I can eat nearly anything - in small amounts. I have to be careful with milk (makes my tummy hurt), so I use unsweetened almond/coconut milk for my Protein or fruit smoothies if I need the extra boost. I avoid most sugary foods (thank goodness I wasn't really all that much of a fan of sugary foods before). I also still have to work to make sure I get the protein I need each day and have to consciously monitor my Water intake. I make my meals of high quality protein, fresh vegetables either raw or steamed or baked, and if I have any room, I'll eat some carbohydrates like whole wheat bread/grain, brown rice, potatoes, corn, Beans, peas, etc. I allow myself a small piece of chocolate once in a while. I can have a cocktail every other month or so when my hubby and I go out to eat.
I exercise sporadically and I know I need to work on this area. I walk and I use an elliptical machine up to 3 times a week.
I have the opportunity to encourage others in my life who are contemplating weight loss surgery and I never mind sharing my story.
I certainly feel super glad that I have this lifelong tool to help me work on my health and fitness!!!

Had wls 3-12-2013 in Mexico with Dr. ORTIZ preop 254 day of sugery and after 3 week diet 234 today 134 my goal weight to stay between 125-130. I am an apple shape as you guys can tell and will have to have plastics to remove hanging skin on my stomach, thighs, arms, and back fat, not to mention my breast are in terrible condition should of been at goal weight by now but to many cheat days and not enough exercising I'm joining Planet Fitness today.

Here is my before shot and after shot. My one year mark is this Friday, March 7th. I have lost over 100 pounds. I was a size 22, now I'm down to a size 2,3. I feel great. I work out almost every day and I thank God every day for this surgery.

heres mine me at my biggest of 425lbs, then a the full body was oct of 2013 and the head shot was new years eve