I did it! Just got back from my one year post op appointment! Here are the facts:

Day of surgery 299 pounds and a 44 BMI

Today 172 pounds and a 28 BMI.

Was a tight size 24, now I wear a comfortable size 10!

I am 5'9''

Best thing I have ever done for myself.

I do watch what I eat, but I have no regimented exercise. I have bad knees, but stay busy with my 3 daughters...getting ready to go horseback riding in a few hours -

If you are unsure, I am telling you - it is fantastic!

I LOVE to go shopping now.

I have never been sick - not once. No puking for me...but I am a wussy and never "pushed" it,....when I am full, I stop eating.

I do have some loose skin on my upper underside of my arms, my lower belly and inner thighs...but only hubby really sees that, and he doesn't mind:) I have been pregnant 3 times, and I do not know why I was worried about how my stomach would look...it's not like 3 fat rolls were that much more attractive!

I look cute in my tankini

There is nothing I CAN'T eat, but a lot of stuff I shouldn't - so I try to still stay away from most carby things....unless it's an occasional treat. I like to stay around 40g of carbs a day....

If the kids want ice cream at Marble Slab - I don't order any for myself, but I take a bite or two of theirs and feel satisfied:)

My hair is getting nice and thick again - thankk GOD!

My levels all looked good - but I do need to start ub the sublingual B12 again....I am terrible about taking a pill!!

My doctor would like to see me go down to 160 because I like the weight I am at now....he says I will regain some of my muscle mass that I have inevitably lost, and if the lower 170's is were I want to be for maintenance, getting to 160 will assure that!

As always, feel free to contact me if you have specific questions. I don't get on here much anymore - but my personal email is ssmonte72@yahoo.com I WILL respond to you!

God Bless!

Shannon

Congrats! You look fabulous!!! It must be a wonderful feeling! I'm walking in your footsteps, so thanks for the encouragement!

Congrats!!!!

Congrats. You rocked your sleeve. You look great. Very inspirational.

Thank you for posting!!! Congratulations !!!!

Wow! That's quite a story... Congratulations, I hope life gets better and better for you - you have inspired me :-))))

Awesome! Congrats!!!

Wow congrats! I can't believe that next year at this time, I may not be a plus size! I get sleeved in August! Thanks so much for your inspiration!

You look wonderful! I love hearing success stories. I'm a little over 7 months out and have 12 pounds to go to get to my Dr's goal weight for me. It really helps those of us that are still trying to get there when others post their stories. Thank you for posting yours and good luck at maintaining.

Congratulations! You look great ????