I started this journey last November with a yearly check-up with my pcp. At that appointment I inquired about weight loss surgery. My doc handed me a referral to their bariatrics team. My weight was 289 lbs. I went to the informational meeting in Dec.

Between Dec. of 2012 and August of 2013 I went to monthly meetings with the bariatric team, monthly appointments with my pcp, and had all sorts of tests and appointment to cover all of the requirements for my insurance. During this time I lost 23 lbs.

On August 12 I started the 2 week pre-op liquid diet. It was hard at first but after the first few days it wasn't so bad.

Aug. 26, my day for surgery I weighed 251. The 2 weeks of liquids allowed me to lose another 15 lbs.

My surgery went well. I had no complications. My pain was minimal. For me it was pretty routine. I have had many abdominal surgeries in the past. When I got home and stepped on the scale, to my surprise I went up to 259 lbs. From reading so many postings on this sight I found out that is pretty common.

After surgery I was on Clear Liquids the first day, full liquids for 4 more weeks. Then I was graduated to a soft, mushy, pureed diet for 2 more weeks. On Monday Oct. 21st I finally got my clearance to eat real food. (keep in mid I have to chew, chew, chew and hope my tummy tolerates it)

As of right now I am down to 223 lbs. My jeans have gone from a size 24 to a 14. My shirts have gone from a 3X down to a 1X. I have had to put 6 more holes in my belt. I am getting complements from people almost everyday at work. I also go for a half hour walk for my lunch break. I try to get 10,000 steps on my pedometer everyday. Currently I am not working out but I am researching personal trainers and hoping to get on that bandwagon soon.

The pictures I have posted show me in the black shirt at 275lbs in April, The pink blouse @ 266 in August, the teal shirt @ 243 lbs in Sept, and In the pink T-shirt @ 231 at the beginning of this month. I am now down another 8 lbs since the last picture.

My highest weight was 289. My surgeons goal weight for me is under 200. My personal goal weight is 160. ( I am 5'8") At this moment I am currently just past the halfway mark to my personal goal. Woohoo!

You look fabulous! Congratulations! You are going to be such a skinny minny when you reach goal.

Congratulations!

Way to go!! You look great!

Great job! :-)

great progress!