Hi all,

I'm celebrating my two year surgiversary today! In honor of that, I've finally finished my profile, adding pictures of me at goal and writing my surgery story, which I've copied below.

I'm looking forward to another successful year at goal weight!

Lynda

My surgery story:

I joined VSG in December 2010 after deciding to pursue WLS in November 2010. I'd been lurking for about a month. I originally thought I wanted a lap band, but after learning more on VST and other sites, I decided to become a sleever.

For those interested in the Kaiser Fremont process: I met with my primary care Dr. in Nov. and he signed me up for the next Overview meeting in Santa Clara. Because of the holidays, that was Jan. 11. After a couple of hiccups (correct weighty wasn't documented and Dr. misunderstood my request for referral), I was referred to Kaiser Fremont Bariatric program and attended Orientation there on Feb 13. I read the book we received in that meeting and began taking the Vitamins and following the 1200 diet immediately. Also, at the end of Orientation, I scheduled by next appt for 3/3. At the 3/3 appt. I met with the nutritionist, who was pleased with my diet, vitamins, ,and exercise routine, the surgeon, who reviewed by med history and declared me a good candidate for the sleeve, and the program coordinator, who explained the next steps I need to take.

Next steps for me were a chest xray, EKG, tetanus shot and anemia blood test (all other tests are current), and attending at least one F2F support group meeting. After I was within 10 lbs of goal I got an appt with the psych. When I lost 10% of my weight, my surgery was scheduled. It took about another 6 weeks after that before I had the surgery. During those six weeks, I practiced chewing a lot, sipping slowly, and I gave up coffee.

I had a undiagnosed hernia, which was repaired during surgery. Post-op, I developed severe lactose intolerance. At two years out, it's not completely gone, but I can enjoy the occasional ice cream or latte.

I hit onderland on June 22, 2011, a little more than one month post op and goal weight on March 25, 2012, about nine months post-op. I've been maintaining goal within 5 lbs. since then.

My blood pressure dropped enough that I was offf all meds for a few months, but it slowly crept back up and I now take medicine again, although not as much as before. I also no longer take cholesterol medication.

My hair did thin beginning in month 4, but by about 18 months out, it was thick all the way to end again.

I was cleared for coffee at three months, and the occasional drink at 6 months.

For me, WLS surgery has been a life changer. I love life at goal.

Great job.. You're the encouragement we appreciate!

Thank you for sharing

Congratulations ~ you look fabulous! You also share a birthday with my youngest son! Your before & after pic is quite inspiring!