This was me one year ago at a company event:

This is me the other day at the same company event, one year later:

I had lapband surgery on September 11, 2013; about 6 months after that first picture was taken. In that picture, you see the person who had made the decision and was waiting for the first visit with her surgeon/hero.

I was miserable. I hated that camera pointed at me. But, I "smiled" and did my part. I hated what I had let happen to my body. I was in constant pain. I could barely move. As my journey progressed and I went through the approval process, my sense of hope began to return. It was possible. I could do it.

I started making a list of goals. Of course the first one was lose weight...duh. But, I started realizing I was putting things on this list that had nothing to do with the scales. I started realizing just how much of my LIFE I had given up while packing on the pounds.

I've lost over 110 lbs since September 11. I never imagined that I would lose so much so fast. My doc grins like the cheshire cat at every appointment. He told me today "You are FANTASTIC. You are RARE. I see you being so DETERMINED and FOCUSED. You are FABULOUS." You know what...he's absolutely correct.

He gave me a plan with a list of rules. I've followed them as best as I can. I'm human. I slip. I eat ice cream on occasion...and I'm allergic to it. I still like chocolate candy. I just don't eat the entire bag in one sitting anymore.

My journey hasn't been all butterflies and rainbows. It's been full of ups and downs. But, I have zero regrets.

Look at the person in the second picture. That smile is genuine. I was happy to be there and pose for that picture. That is the smile of a person who has their LIFE back.

I'm not done on my journey. My scales tell me I have a ways to go before I meet my weight goal. But, one year ago, I was planning how to avoid my life. I was always looking for a reason to not join my friends or family. Now, 12 months after that first picture, I'm planning roller coasters, family vacations, snorkeling, boxing classes, bike rides....new adventures.

I've discovered that my most important goal on my list was to get my life back. GOAL MET.

Great job! Congrats!

Beautiful story from a beautiful person. You remind me of why I started this journey...you remind me - well - of ME.....thanks for sharing.

Beautiful dialogue. I couldn't have said it better myself! Congratulations on your success!

Edited March 19, 201412 yr by steph2012

Wow!!!! Amazing. Congratulations

Guess what darlin'....you're my hero. Spectacular post by a very special lady.

Amazing Job!!!!! Congrats!!!

Loved reading your story, SillyAuntDi.....best wishes as you continue on YOUR JOURNEY!!!

I teared up a little, reading your story. It's one I can very much relate to. Congrats on your success as you continue.

That was well written and came straight from your heart! You are an inspiration and you look amazing!! You have made such amazing strides!!

Thank you so much for sharing!!

So inspiring! Thank you!

-K

Beautiful post, Di, and a beautiful woman. So happy for you! And for me, that I get to be on this forum with people like you. This is so inspiring, and like Leepers, I feel a little teary. Just read Shel's Bandiversary blog, too -- really, we are so, so lucky to have our bands and this reinvention of our lives. Here's to your health!

Super inspirational. Thank you for taking the time to encourage others, including beginners like me.