I had my RNY 14 years ago in Wilmington, NC with Dr. David Miles. I can't remember what my weight was before but pre knife I weighed 364 pounds. We had a very strict program we had to stick to as Dr. Miles was trying to re established and reinstated a bariatric program at our local hospital after a very poor MD had botched it up pretty bad. We were all on our best behavior. I was one of the first few that were allow into the surgery line up and we all were doing our best for those who were to come after. No "last meals" for us! Dr Miles was and is an amazing doctor and my operation went without a hitch. I've always been lucky and have never had a bit of trouble since then. I'd heard such horror stories before and since. Ive been very lucky. I originally lost down to 157lbs then drifted back up to the 170's where I stayed for quite a while. (Several years). At that weight I learned to run, surf and my own personal goal, squat without falling over. (It's the little things!).

After moving to Alaska, my weight ballooned back up to over 240 and stayed there where I panicked quietly for a few years. At that point I started looking for some form of exercise where I wouldn't hurt or sweat. (Yuck!) I found YOGA!! That gift has brought my weight back down to my current of 133 pounds. It gave me back the willpower to return to my gastric bypass diet, small portions of thoughtful meals. I love it. I feel strong and in control for the first time! Even more than I did immediately after surgery. If anyone is looking for a huge help on their journey, I would suggest yoga. You don't have to be skinny or flexible to do it. Just willing!

I hope I can continue to stay healthy and strong. I wish there had been places like this all those years ago. As well as all the years since when I felt so alone. What a great community!!!

Edited August 29, 20178 yr by Awensraven

your story is even more encouraging than hearing from those who lost weight and kept it off. you show that it's possible to have a bad regain spell but turn that around and lose it again. making the surgery truly a tool that is as effective as you make it and not a "one time shot".

i did yoga a long time ago. it really does make you feel fantastic in so many ways. you have inspired me to start up again.

congrats and best of luck.

It is possible! I did a really bad thing by stretching out my pouch and my opening all over again! I found out just last week that my horrible reflux is back with a vengeance now. I'm actually aspirating my stomach acid into my lungs when I swallow! That's new. I've been able to shrink by stomach back down to a normal size but the GERD is there for life and it's back to NO liquids with meals like we were told. No carbonated drinks, etc. Its been hard but it is possible. Luckily the dumping syndrome never left. That little gem kept the worse of my high sugar bingeing at a low level. Oh well. Definitely get back into yoga though! Your body and mind will love you for it.