It's been about 3 1/2 years since I decided I had to make changes in my life. I hit 450 pounds and realized I was no longer in control.

I dieted on my own for the first 2 years, and did okay. I lost about 120 pounds by simply eating less and walking. Eventually that was no longer enough and I stopped losing, so I started a bariatric program. I had 6 months of supervised weight loss, and having the accountability made me work harder. I lost another 30 pounds in those 6 months. My goal was to be under 300 by my surgery date, November 10, 2014. When I weighed in at the hospital that morning, I was 299.9. Just barely there, but I did it!

This week is my 1 year surgery anniversary. When I weighed this morning I was 189.9. Another 110 pounds gone. So to Celebrate, I'm posting a before and after picture. The first one is from 2011. I'm not quite at my highest weight there, but as I'm sure many of you can understand, there aren't a lot of pictures of me to choose from. I always avoided having them taken. The second one was taken this morning. Not a great picture, but you get the idea!

And 260 pounds later:

Cool! Thank you for sharing and congrats!

Proud of you!

Congratulations! !

Great for you Dave!!!!!

_{Congrats on your weight loss success! You look great!}

Wow! What a great accomplishment. I really appreciated that you learned new eating practices by losing a substantial amount before your surgery. That was a commitment that many of us never made. I'm very happy for your success. Thank you for sharing.

About the aging. If you get a microdermabrasion facial it will slough off the layers of dead skin revealing fresher healthier looking brighter skin underneath. You can find deal on Groupon or Living Social in your local area. Afterwards use a daily moisturizer . Skincare isn't just for the ladies.

Wow! What an inspiration you are! Congrats!! You look Awesome!!!! ????