As I approach my 4-year VSG anniversary with Dr. Ortiz in Tijuana, I wanted to share all the positive things that have happened in my life:

1) Went from a size 18/20 to a 6. No more meds and overall fantastic health.

2) Weight loss gave me the confidence to go after my MBA.

3) I completed my MBA (and also completed a 2nd Masters just this year).

4) I got a promotion at work. And I'm making more money.

5) My husband says people think he is either rich or "well endowed" because I am "hot" and with him (he is crazy-funny).

6) Two other friends have had successful VSG surgery with Dr. Ortiz and have lost all the weight they wanted to loose. (And let me tell you, being an role model to others is a powerful thing I was not expecting, but love.)

7) I am glad to answer any questions about my experience as a 3+ year VSG veteran, surgery in Mexico, or other.

If interested, you are welcome to visit my own personal weight loss blog that chronicles my pre-surgery craziness and post-surgery experience. I don't work for anyone or get paid for anything, just my experience for those researching options. www.hoosierfatty.wordpress.com

HUGS - Shelley

Congrats on 4 years of successful weight loss! I just had my 2 year surgiversary in September and it's been great for me as well. I love being far enough out now that there are people in my life who never even knew me pre-op. It helps really bring home that this new me is the REAL me now. They never knew any other version of me. I also love that my WLS lifestyle is just the new normal for me now. I don't have to think about it all the time or figure things out anymore. I know exactly what I need to do and I do it automatically.

I too think it's cool the way I have become kind of a "mentor" to some people. I try to be as helpful and informative as I can. I find that sticking around these forums helps keep me accountable as well. Been such a great experience all around!