It's true we all change over the years, just by life experiences. Weight loss surgery is a huge life changer and the further out you are the more you can change. You learn so many things, especially if you are deep into the WLS support community.

What is it about your inner self that you are proud to share that you have changed since surgery for the better? Or, if you are pre-op or newly WLS what changes do you hope for in the future?

I have definitely learned a sincere compassion for others feelings, good or bad. Support is extremely important in my opinion in the WLS community. No one will ever understand us, like us. Some other things I enjoy about the "new" me is that I have come to accept who I am, my past, my present and feeling excited about my future. I have gained a confidence about myself and now I realize that I really CAN do ANYTHING that I put my mind to. I am studying Business Management and minoring in Nutrition... I never dreamed I'd ever have come this far! I still fight for my health and my life every day, but I also have the confidence within me that I will succeed at that too. No one is perfect, and least of all me - but I am glad I can say that I will fight daily to be the best me I can be.

Enjoy your journey! Every day, every pound we get rid of and every bad or demeaning thought we ever had about ourselves.

Or, if you are pre-op or newly WLS what changes do you hope for in the future?

I hope to be a stronger woman. I have a bubbly personality on the inside, I want that personality to be reflected on the outside. I in a way am scared of what the future holds, but am ready for it! I hope that the Tiffany in June 2015 is healthy active and training for her first 5k .

@@cutiepieinchi If you dream it, and reach for it you will achieve it. I know many post op WLSers that have run 5k's all the way up to marathons and beyond! I've run a few 5ks myself. Though I cannot anymore by the advice of my orthopedic surgeon, I will always have that memory of doing them. Go for it!

I love the way I look people in the eyes, smile, and greet them with a big hello. Other people have noticed this, too. Why just today, a man told me he used to be afraid to talk to me because I was quiet and shy and he was afraid I would break down and cry. Now when I look at people and start a conversation, I feel a sense of freedom because I know for a fact they cannot reject me based on size alone anymore.

@@K33 beautiful confidence