Hi Everyone. My journey started in 1996 with my gastric bypass. I'm now 18 years post-op and have maintained a 130 pound weight loss. I have had 2 pregnancies post-op. My kids are now 15 & 16 years old. My surgery was open and lapriscopy wasn't an option then. I've dealt with issues of birth control and anemia. I had no setbacks until my 10 year anniversary when I developed an internal strangulation hernia that required surgical correction. I also had an upper Gi bleed this past January. Other than those items, my surgery enabled me to have the lifestyle and become the wife and mother I had only dreamed of previously. I keep within a 10 pound window for maintenance. It gets harder to keep within that window as I get older; however it is achievable by keeping to the same rules used for weight loss to maintain. We all need to be mindful of our Protein, limit the carbs, exercise and keep hydrated. I think having support is so important and I'm greatful to have found this site.

Edited July 30, 201412 yr by Mommaslp

Thanks for sharing your experience --- welcome

Thanks so much for sharing. You are an inspiration to this newb. I haven't had my surgery yet but stories like this make me even more excited to have it. I rarely see anyone who has had one that long ago speak about it. It is great to know it is possible to keep it off for good!