AleBrooks

Congratulations on your progress and being in the 180s! That's a huge achievement.

I've been on a similar journey myself. I went from being significantly overweight to losing a substantial amount of weight, and let me tell you, getting under that obesity threshold is such a mental and physical victory. It's not just about the numbers, but about feeling healthier and more confident.

Regarding the skin removal surgery, it's awesome that you're planning ahead and working with a surgeon. Getting to a stable weight for 6 months before the procedure is a smart approach. I've heard mixed experiences about insurance coverage, so definitely keep checking with Aetna about potential coverage.

Keep up the incredible work! Every pound lost is a step towards better health, and you're clearly committed to your wellness journey. Wishing you all the best in reaching that 169 goal! 💪

Congratulations on your progress and being in the 180s! That's a huge achievement.

I've been on a similar journey myself. I went from being significantly overweight to losing a substantial amount of weight, and let me tell you, getting under that obesity threshold is such a mental and physical victory. It's not just about the numbers, but about feeling healthier and more confident.

Regarding the skin removal surgery, it's awesome that you're planning ahead and working with a surgeon. Getting to a stable weight for 6 months before the procedure is a smart approach. I've heard mixed experiences about insurance coverage, so definitely keep checking with Aetna about potential coverage.

Keep up the incredible work! Every pound lost is a step towards better health, and you're clearly committed to your wellness journey. Wishing you all the best in reaching that 169 goal! 💪

I totally relate to your experience of slip-ups and challenges. Weight loss isn't a linear journey, and it's amazing how resilient we can be. Even when I had setbacks or moments of doubt, I kept pushing forward. The key is to not let those moments define your entire journey.

Your point about feeling happier and learning to love your body is so powerful. It's not just about the physical changes, but the mental and emotional transformation that comes with taking control of your health. The freedom you describe - being less self-conscious, feeling more comfortable in your own skin - that's truly priceless.

Wishing you all the best for the next phase of your journey, and kudos to you for sharing your inspiring story! Keep celebrating every victory, big and small. 💪❤️

Today’s win? I didn’t let a rough morning throw the whole day off. I used to spiral the second things didn’t go “perfect.”Even though I kind of wanted to just collapse on the sofa today, I managed to meet my protein target, drink enough water, and go for a walk. It’s the little stuff stacking up that makes me feel like I’m actually building something this time. Thanks for the reminder to celebrate it.

Love this idea. Why did I never think to do that?
I was looking through my camera roll the other day and realized I had zero pics of the way I used to eat. And I wish I did, because the difference now is kinda wild. My “after” plates are just a few bites and I’m done. But back then? It was like... Olympic-level portions. lol
Might do a fridge shot soon too. It’s gone from being a snack graveyard to actually looking like someone gives a damn about protein. Appreciate the inspo!

Today’s win? I didn’t let a rough morning throw the whole day off. I used to spiral the second things didn’t go “perfect.”Even though I kind of wanted to just collapse on the sofa today, I managed to meet my protein target, drink enough water, and go for a walk. It’s the little stuff stacking up that makes me feel like I’m actually building something this time. Thanks for the reminder to celebrate it.

Love this idea. Why did I never think to do that?
I was looking through my camera roll the other day and realized I had zero pics of the way I used to eat. And I wish I did, because the difference now is kinda wild. My “after” plates are just a few bites and I’m done. But back then? It was like... Olympic-level portions. lol
Might do a fridge shot soon too. It’s gone from being a snack graveyard to actually looking like someone gives a damn about protein. Appreciate the inspo!

What you said about gym memberships turning into donation centers had me cracking up, been there, done that. Honestly though, you’re already ahead by taking the time to prep and really think it through..
VSG was my route too, and yeah, it’s not magic, but it gave me the space to finally change stuff for real. Glad you’re here. You’re in good company.

What you said about gym memberships turning into donation centers had me cracking up, been there, done that. Honestly though, you’re already ahead by taking the time to prep and really think it through..
VSG was my route too, and yeah, it’s not magic, but it gave me the space to finally change stuff for real. Glad you’re here. You’re in good company.

Today’s win? I didn’t let a rough morning throw the whole day off. I used to spiral the second things didn’t go “perfect.”Even though I kind of wanted to just collapse on the sofa today, I managed to meet my protein target, drink enough water, and go for a walk. It’s the little stuff stacking up that makes me feel like I’m actually building something this time. Thanks for the reminder to celebrate it.

Today’s win? I didn’t let a rough morning throw the whole day off. I used to spiral the second things didn’t go “perfect.”Even though I kind of wanted to just collapse on the sofa today, I managed to meet my protein target, drink enough water, and go for a walk. It’s the little stuff stacking up that makes me feel like I’m actually building something this time. Thanks for the reminder to celebrate it.

Love this idea. Why did I never think to do that?
I was looking through my camera roll the other day and realized I had zero pics of the way I used to eat. And I wish I did, because the difference now is kinda wild. My “after” plates are just a few bites and I’m done. But back then? It was like... Olympic-level portions. lol
Might do a fridge shot soon too. It’s gone from being a snack graveyard to actually looking like someone gives a damn about protein. Appreciate the inspo!

Today’s win? I didn’t let a rough morning throw the whole day off. I used to spiral the second things didn’t go “perfect.”Even though I kind of wanted to just collapse on the sofa today, I managed to meet my protein target, drink enough water, and go for a walk. It’s the little stuff stacking up that makes me feel like I’m actually building something this time. Thanks for the reminder to celebrate it.

Here we go, currently 35 F. Since I was 21 I have seen an endocrinologist for what seemed like an unknown hormone disorder. They didn't diagnosis with anything but monitored me for years. I had severe cystic acne, Hidrianitus suppurativa hirsutism and I struggled with my weight (always). My weight was not that much of a problem at the time (I was 160, 5'7) but I felt like I was heavier than I should be for what I ate. I was not diagnosed with PCOS because I had regular periods and normal test results. But the doctor told me he wanted to continue to see me.

Years later in 2022 my weight skyrocketed to 230 pounds in about a 18 month period. It was shocking, never have I been that heavy. It was awful. I didn't change me diet. The sent me to a nutritionist but I didn't lose weight. It was like weight-loss was impossible. The endocrinologist has no answers and I got a second opinion. Again no answers.

Then in 2024 I was the same weight but my asthma was becoming incredibly severe. My lung function was down to 70 present and I was frequently hospitalized last year. They told me my weight was worsening my asthma. I told them I couldn't lose weight. I got desperate and from June to November I ate 400 calories a day and only drank water. I lost 30 pounds. I had no choice but to do this. It was crazy, it was dangerous and I passed out twice but I had no choice. I was dying anyway.
By December I started upping my calories to 700 and by January I was eating 1200 calories. My lung function improved to 86 percent and my asthma was suddenly improving based on test results.
The troubling thing recently is in the last two months I've regained 11 pounds. I'm only eating what my nutritionist recommends.
I'm now at the point of wondering if Gastric Bypass is for me. I clearly can not lose weight easily on my own, worsening obesity makes me sicker. The weigh comes back far too quickly.
Would this be the right decision for me?