Today marks my one-year bandiversary! I am constantly amazed at the differences in my life that have happened over the past year. It's been a ride full of excitement, anxiety, self-discovery, and improved health.

When I weighed in for my surgery, I was 354lbs. I was scared to death. I asked my sister-friend to take me home more than once. I questioned what I was doing right up until I fell asleep in the OR. I woke up totally satisfied with my choice. I haven't looked back with regret a single time (Yes, I questioned my sanity a few times in those early days, but no regrets.)

One year ago, I was on blood pressure meds, high doses of arthritis meds for my feet and knees, I struggled with chronic pain, and I was generally unhappy. I knew I needed to change, but I couldn't do it on my own. I was trapped in the hell that was my body.

Today, I take NO blood pressure meds and my arthritis is under control without even tylenol. My chronic pain is no longer chronic nor constant. I am active and social and happy. My body is no longer my prison.

I have always struggled with anxiety. I still do. This year has forced me to face certain demons and admit my fears. I love my therapist. She is the most supportive, non-judgemental person. I don't know if I would be as successful as I am if she wasn't a part of my support system.

One year ago, I wouldn't dream of getting on a roller coaster. I've done this and so much more!!! One year ago, I would shut down at the thought of group exercise classes. Today I take boxing classes full of people...and my before and after pictures are displayed behind the check-in desk. One year ago, I was looking for inspiration. Yesterday I met a lady at the boxing gym that said my pictures and my story were her inspiration...talk about coming full circle.

One year ago, I didn't want to talk about me. I didn't want to talk about anything personal. This year, I have been the featured speaker at my weightloss support group. I was told afterwards that I moved many people in attendance. Me...the one that was scared to death to make the change that I needed so badly.

In one year I have dropped 165lbs. I have gone from a 5X shirt to a Large or Medium. I was a size 30 in jeans...today I am between a 12 and 14. I wear skirts again. I NEVER did that one year ago. I wasn't able to wear boots because my legs were too thick. I bought three pair last week because they zipped. One year ago, I was faced with living my life as a very solitary, hermit-like person. Today I am dating, meeting new people, doing new things, and living the life I have deserved for a very long time.

Thank you to all of you on this forum. I love coming here. On my bad days, I find inspiration. On my good days, I try to give it.

So, I'm attaching a few pictures for you

My before picture (May 2013)

My picture today (September 11, 2014)

The jeans I was wearing one-year ago...I fit in ONE LEG now!

Here's to the next year...and the one after that, and the one after that....

congratulations! you are an inspiration.

I hear you about that picture thing. One of my pictures truly was my catalyst to move forward. Congrats on your success and life as you know it now. You are an I N S P I R A T I O N >>>>>>>>>>

Congrats Di! Wonderful post and a true inspiration to many. Best wishes on your continued success.