I began my weight loss journey at 306 lbs. It may have been more, but after seeing that number I refused to step on the scale until I lost some weight. My moment of clarity was not being able to enjoy the theme parks that my friends did. The roller coasters were not designed for people "of my stature." I was embarrassed and disappointed in myself for giving up on my own health and that was when I decided to really put the effort into betting myself.

I began the research into LAP-BAND® and found out that my insurance would only cover it if I maintained a 6 month diet first. This set me on my way to better health and before my surgery I had lost just under 40 lbs, bringing my weight down from 306 to 269 the day of my surgery. Prior to my surgery, my long time boyfriend proposed to me and I became even more motivated to lose the weight.

After surgery my weight dropped at a steady pace and every day I made a promise to myself that I wanted to finally be healthy. Throughout the year I exercised, ate relatively healthy, (i'd be lying if I claimed perfection because I was in no way perfect with my eating habits) and kept that promise to myself. one month before my wedding I was down from a size 26 to a size 16 and my dress maker told me "if you lose anymore weight you're wedding dress will not fit because we cannot take it in anymore." I have maintained my weight at around 213 for the past 3 months and walked down the isle in a sz 16 dress, a size I hadn't worn since Jr. High school!

I have now begun the second leg of my journey to finish what I have started. My first goal was under 250 (check), my second was to weigh less than I did in high school at 225 (check) next is to finally be in wonderland (7more lbs) and be under 200 (14 more lbs).

I just wanted to share my story with all of you out there and hopefully you'll be willing to share your journey, even if it isn't complete yet, because it will help others out there realize that every small goal is an achievement and although you may not be "thin" by societies standards, everyday you better yourself and be proud of all the little changes that bring you to better health. I have wedding picts and before and after photos on my profile now so feel free to browse through them.

Best of luck to my fellow bandsters and remember to be proud of who you are at every step of the way!

Very inspiring, congradulations!

Manda,

You look amazing, keep up the good work. We share the same band date, but I am one year behind you!

Thanks for sharing and you look amazing in your wedding dress!