Hi everyone. It's been a long time since I've dropped by, but I just want to give an up date and a word of encouragement. I had my one year post-op yesterday. It was a bit late (2/14/12 surgery), but anywho. I was down #160 (335-175), twenty dress sizes (28-8) and over 252 inches. If I can do this, anyone can. I had my toes in the grave. I was on 21 meds and the doc told me I would die that way...whether I lost weight or not. Because of my problems he (my PCP) didn't think I would lost a huge amount (50-60#), but he encouraged me to have it do so I could 'feel a little better about myself.' Well, I'm glad to say I proved him wrong. I did lose weight and a lot of it. I also lost all of the meds and the cane/walker/wheelchair. I am a WALKING miracle. I give praise to God for my healing. Now because I was instantly miraculously healed, but because he allowed me to find the path and the means (insurance) to get what I needed to be healed. I do believe God instantly heals somethings in some people, but I also believe he uses the hand of good physicians to administer healing. This is the way he chose to give me mine. I encourage anyone that has had a long, unyielding struggle with obesity to talk to a doctor about WLS... Sleeve in particular. If you are on the edge trying to make up your mind, take my advice. Do it! You are sick? In pain? Lonely? Depressed? What are you holding on to! You have nothing to lose, but all of that. Are there risks? Yes. Is it hard? Yes. But come on. We all know the fat has a 100% chance of causing complication/death. Is it really that much of a gamble to take a 1% chance with a surgery. You're more likely to get killed in a car wreck on the way to get your next fast food burger. Do yourself and your family/friends a favor and choose life. I did and I would do it again and again.

Before surgery (28, 335#) and on my 1 year Surgiversary (8/10, 178#)

At my 1 year post op (8, 175#) holding my old size 28 skirt.

Side view. Now a size 8.

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It's hard to believe those are both you in the photos! You have done a great job and should be very proud of your success. Congratulations -

Benisa you are a wonderful inspiration and I'm so happy for you and your incredible success. God can do miracles through those that have faith. Can you share your top success tips?

Congrats!!!

wow great job

Wow, you look amazing and so much younger!

The best advise I can give is track your food and have a calorie goal ( I use My Fitness Pal) and stay away from the junk. Don't be drinking regular sodas/ kook aide and don't eat a bunch of sweets. These things take up very little room, but pack a big calorie punch. I don't say anything is off limits, because that is just setting yourself up for failure. This is a lifestyle, not a diet. Have a cookie now and then, but don't keep them in the house all the time. If you can do some sort of physical activity, please do. It will help you stay strong and maintain muscle mass. I have done very, very little exercise because of various injuries I have. I wish I could do more so I could be firm and strong. Always remember that tomorrow is a new day. Didn't do so good today... Get up brush yourself off and start again. None of us are perfect. We are only human and we need help. That's why you are here. Get a support system, even if its just one person; but make sure it is a truthful one, one that will keep you accountable. One that will tell you you rock when you do and kick your butt when you don't.

Hope this helps you out. I don't have any sage wisdom, but just a little common sense. It's what got me here. Best wishes on your journey ????

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Congrats...you look amazing!! I love that you pointed out there is a 100% chance that the fat will cause complications/death for us. I'm pre-op and when I start getting scared thinking about the surgery and journey that follows, I remind myself that if I don't do this, I'm going to die of obesity related issues. And that's definitely something I don't want to happen!

Congratulations!

U look great!! I'm so happy for u!! Congrats on your progress and thanks for being an inspiration

You are such a sweet inspiration. I love how you attribute your success and healing and newfound well being to God. You are truly a "new creation!"

Your post gives me hope for the future. Thank you!

Simply Fantastic....You look awesome!

God bless you! You look wonderful! What an inspiration. You are. Thank you for sharing your story.

Amazing transformation, inside and out--heartfelt congratulations! thanks so much for sharing your inspiring story.

Wow!!!!!