I woke this morning to an email from Alex congratulating me on my anniversary with VST.

What a difference a year makes.

A year ago, I had just decided to move forward with surgery and joined VST after lurking for a few weeks.

A year ago, I was carrying 133 more pounds than I am today.

A year ago, I would never have believed that so many people that I had never met, would make such a profound difference in my life.

So many of you here have been so many things to me that even those closest to me could not be.

You walk in my shoes. We share a unique bond and I am thankful to so many of you for being a wealth of information, mentors, shoulders to lean on and the cheerleaders we all need from time to time.

If you ever doubt that your contribution here matters, don't. I'm still in the throws of my journey and continue to seek out VST as much as I ever did for continued support and information.

I hope to be the same help to others as so many have been to me.

A big Thank you and huge cyber hug to you all! I couldn't have done it without you.

Chris

That is awesome. I have just joined and had my surgery on June 10 and am grateful to have found this site as well. I cannot wait to see what a difference a year will make for me!!!! Congrats to you.

Awesome post! Congratulations on your weight loss...and sharing with others here!

I feel the same but on the other side of surgery as preop. This blog has calmed my fears and helped me to pursue what is best for me. Your post was awesome and I can't wait for my surgery next Monday.

Super wonderful post. Congrats on your year Anniversary. You are also very encouraging to others.

Beautiful post! Congratulations on your success!

Awesome! Congrats!!!

Congrats nd Ty 4 ur words of support for us up nd comers:)