14 months ago I embarked on an incredible journey. I have struggled with severe depression since my early teens and, like most, I took to eating as a coping mechanism. Throughout the years I have tried many diets. All of which were soon abandoned within the first couple of weeks. Towards the end of 2009 I had an injury and knew exactly what the cause was. The gavel in my mind slammed down. It was time to make a change and change for good, even if that meant taking drastic measures.

I had always been against any form of weight loss surgery. Thinking, "Why can’t you just lose weight like everyone else on a normal diet?" I finally caught myself in a huge pit of denial. After much research and consoling with my family; I decided to opt for laparoscopic banding. I knew that if I was to be paying for something this drastic, I would do it right and stick with it no matter what.

On 8/9/10 my 10 day pre-op liquid diet began, and my weight was 435 pounds! My surgery took place on 8/19/10, with no complications. I remained on my liquid diet for a total of 28 days. After that I was slowly re-introduced to foods. Having cut out all fried food, fast food, and sweets (I have had NO FORM of rice, bread, or Pasta since beginning). I now love my new diet. Fresh and healthy is a lifestyle I have learned to love. Sure, someday I will enjoy what I cut out from my diet, but I will be way smarter and more health-conscious when doing so.

After losing a hefty amount of weight, I was ready to hit the gym! I started a membership in January 2011, and have been dedicated to going at least 4 times a week since. Through the months, as the weight has been melting off, I begin to feel superhuman! Things I have not been able to do since my early teens, I now enjoy and love doing! I will stay true and dedicated to this lifestyle, even after my goal is met.

Thank you everyone for your support and love.

Life is good.

Oh, by the way, I have gone from 435lbs to 244lbs. A loss of 191lbs, as of 10/22/11.

Before:

After(pic is a couple weeks old):

WOW. That is amazing - you have done so well.

EXCELLENT WORK!!!!!!

You look AMAZING! Good job!

you look absolutely amazing , I am too was 408lbs when starting this journey on 4/2011 and as of today 10/24/2011 I weigh 300lbs and I also go to the gym frequently. Keep up the great work

You should be so proud of yourself!!

You look great. you should be so proud of yourself.

Kat

Magneto is a villlian and in my eyes you are a hero! Definately someone to look up to. You have done fantastic and even though I don't know you I am proud of you!!! Great work.

Congrats! You look fabulous!

Sue

Hey there... Im a young guy too and started this journey at 416 lbs... This story made me decide to join this board... Congrats and I am hoping to be right behind you.

YOU LOOK GREAT!!!!!

AMAZING transformation!

Its funny, you mention feeling superhuman, and I get that. Someone commented on a post of my 2 pics that both women looked beautfiul, and my response was, but the woman who is smaller FEELS beautiful!

It's amazing how this journey changes your aspect on living, isn't it?

Thank you all for the kind words! It truly has been an incredible journey! I had many clients come into my job, whom I haven't seen in almost a year, and they all ask me, "Where is Jordan?" That's always a great feeling, they are in total shock and disbelief Most are curious about how I did it, but feel hesitant to ask, and I always tell them I am happy to inform!

Magneto, you look fantastic! I know friends and family are proud of you. And you should be proud of the great job you are doing! Congrats! Karen

14 months ago I embarked on an incredible journey. I have struggled with severe depression since my early teens and, like most, I took to eating as a coping mechanism. Throughout the years I have tried many diets. All of which were soon abandoned within the first couple of weeks. Towards the end of 2009 I had an injury and knew exactly what the cause was. The gavel in my mind slammed down. It was time to make a change and change for good, even if that meant taking drastic measures.

I had always been against any form of weight loss surgery. Thinking, "Why can't you just lose weight like everyone else on a normal diet?" I finally caught myself in a huge pit of denial. After much research and consoling with my family; I decided to opt for laparoscopic banding. I knew that if I was to be paying for something this drastic, I would do it right and stick with it no matter what.

On 8/9/10 my 10 day pre-op liquid diet began, and my weight was 435 pounds! My surgery took place on 8/19/10, with no complications. I remained on my liquid diet for a total of 28 days. After that I was slowly re-introduced to foods. Having cut out all fried food, fast food, and sweets (I have had NO FORM of rice, bread, or Pasta since beginning). I now love my new diet. Fresh and healthy is a lifestyle I have learned to love. Sure, someday I will enjoy what I cut out from my diet, but I will be way smarter and more health-conscious when doing so.

After losing a hefty amount of weight, I was ready to hit the gym! I started a membership in January 2011, and have been dedicated to going at least 4 times a week since. Through the months, as the weight has been melting off, I begin to feel superhuman! Things I have not been able to do since my early teens, I now enjoy and love doing! I will stay true and dedicated to this lifestyle, even after my goal is met.

Thank you everyone for your support and love.

Life is good.

Oh, by the way, I have gone from 435lbs to 244lbs. A loss of 191lbs, as of 10/22/11.

Before:

After(pic is a couple weeks old):

Thank you for sharing your story and giving me hope. You look awesome. Your resolve is tremendous. Keep it up.

Melinda

YOU ROCK!!!!!!