I went to my first seminar over a year ago (Nov.2010). Since then i have had several surgeries to save my foot. i had my vertical sleeve on Jan. 12 2012. It was preformed at Madigan Army Hospital by Dr. Haque. I am now 6 days post op. I am feeling pretty good, except for the fibromyalgia. It should get better as I lose the weight. I started at 436 lbs. I am in a wheel chair and don't walk. Exercise will be more difficult. I will be successful!

Yes, you will be successful! Congrats on taking this step for your own health!!

There are some videos for people who cannot do standing/walking exercises, perhaps those would work to help you tone as you lose weight. If you are up to it, you could also do some very light weight lifting with 1, 2, 3, or 4 pound weights. I do several arm exercises with 3 pound weights to help tone my arms up and I'm working on raising the number of repetitions rather than adding more weight since all I want to do is tone.

I'm sorry to hear about your foot. I have an aunt who spent nearly 3 months in the hospital with diabetes complications for an infection in her foot. She kept hers, but very nearly did not. It sounds like you might have had a similar experience. THAT is a tough journey!

I started out barely able to walk from my front door to my car, and, 4 months/81 pounds later, I do 2 miles on the treadmill 3 times a week. I'm still very slow, but I can walk now! I hope your experience will be similar to mine!

You have made a huge, positive change for yourself! I hope you'll keep us posted on your journey.

Good luck!!