Four Year Bandiversary

[CoachCher 1]

Well tomorrow is my four year Bandiversary; the best decision I’ve ever made for myself. This truly has been life changing journey. I’m sure you hear a lot people say this; I have to tell you it’s not just some cliché. As a result of my surgery I found my calling and what my life purpose is.

In my book “Transformation Caravan” I discuss my journey openly and honestly. My journey turned into something bigger than the Weight Loss itself. My journey unfolded in a manner of discovery. Discovering who I wanted to be; as a woman, girlfriend, and member of society.

I had allowed so many failed relationships hold me prisoner. My self esteem was shot, I felt unworthy of a healthy relationship. After my LAP-BAND surgery this all changed. I had an awakening and realized I was worthy of a healthy relationship. I also realized what I contributed to each of my failed relationships. Trust me this is hard; allowing yourself to be so raw and open with yourself and seeing your short comings (scary scary stuff). I went there; I took myself to the dark place to really examine “ME”. It’s so easy to blame everyone else for the crap that is in our lives. I didn’t want to do that; this journey was for me, about me and damn-it I was going to find “ME”.

Now understand this isn’t something I set out to do; not even close. When I signed up for this LAP-BAND journey I only had visions of losing weight not losing the old me (I’m glad I did lose her). The first thirty seven years of my life had not turned out like I wanted them to; I wasn’t going to continue down the same road. It was time to take a hard sharp left turn off “Regret Blvd” and find new roads to travel

Excerpt from “Transformation Caravan” My first year post-op was really a growing, learning, accepting of myself journey. I really didn’t expect the changes taking place in body, mind and soul. As my body was changing; so was my opinion of myself. I was on the emotional “Roller Coaster” ride of my life. I still experienced self doubt; my self-destructive mentality still showed up here and there. Unfortunately we don't lose those feelings immediately as we lose the weight. Try to be kind to yourself during this phase; because that's exactly what it is- it's a phase. Your emotions are going to be all over the place; take advantage of this time to really feel your emotions and to get to know the authentic you.

It was during this emotional roller coaster ride; I learned the most about myself. I relished all of these changes. I really looked at my life from a different view point. I allowed myself to see and feel things differently. I had been given a gift; a new lease on life and I wanted to make the most of it

Trust me it was the best left turn I’ve ever made. As with any major decision in our lives there will always be the would-of could-of and should-of’s, believe me my journey is no different.

I was not as committed as I thought I would be. I remember visiting my surgeon for the first time and he explained the procedure to me; I only heard half of what he said. My focus was on how much weight I was going to lose not what the aftercare was going to be like. I had visions of a size 4 and 6 dancing in my head *LOL*. Seriously listening to my surgeon was like listening to Charlie Browns teacher "Blah Blah Blah". It's not that I didn't take what he was saying to me seriously; I just wanted the procedure to be done and let the weight loss begin. Umm that happened for the first year with little effort on my part then it all came to screeching halt when I got comfortable with the new me. This was a sub-conscience decision; I didn't even know I was doing it. I can honestly say, “I was failing my band”. I became comfortable with the new me, I lost focus on my goal, and I just became downright lazy in my weight loss efforts

Excerpt from “Transformation Caravan” I believe this journey takes each one of us in different directions; yet our destination is the same. Some of you will reach your destination on time; and others will take a Detour then end up at your destination. Bottom line it doesn’t matter when or how you reach your destination as long as you reach it.

For those of you who take a detour; enjoy the scenic route because there is a lot to be learned on the roads less traveled. Those of you who have reached your destination on time; you obviously mapped out your route and didn’t need to stop and ask for directions along the way.

You may have had one mind set starting out and then something inside you flipped and now you have new goals, hopes and dreams. There is absolutely nothing wrong with this. The point here is; are you happy, has your quality of life improved, are you living your dreams? If so: then you have reached your “Victory Volcano”.

It was a long road trip reaching my final destination. I wouldn’t have skipped any of the stops I made along the way. I took this journey without a road map and I did get lost along the way. When my “Transformation Caravan” rolled out on the road I had no idea I would discover so many “Wonders of the WLS World”.

You have been given a new “Lease on Life” make the most of it; embracing every change you go through. If you feel overwhelmed at times (which you will) get the support/help you need and work through it; don’t think you are in this alone because you’re not

This is the time to take risk you have never taken before, try new adventures, and really start living your life like you have always wanted to. Don’t let anyone or anything stand in the way of your dreams. If you are hitting roadblock after roadblock; re-access what you are doing and make the adjustments

Weight Loss Surgery is so much more than losing weight, crossing your legs or even wearing a belt. This journey is completely life changing from the inside out. Reaching your destination shouldn’t be overwhelming, intimidating, or even fearful. Instead it should be embraced, appreciated and welcomed.

I found my calling as a Life and Wellness Coach. I am trained to listen, observe and to customize my approach to your needs. My coaching approach helps you deal with obstacles and stay on course, so you effectively reach your goals. I want to "Empower" you during your transformation to health and wellness.

It’s an honor and a joy to provide Coaching as you discover your path to living a joyful and rewarding life after your Weight Loss Surgery

[msperson 0]

congratulations!