Jump to content
×
Are you looking for the BariatricPal Store? Go now!
$99 Yearly Supply Alert! 🎉 "1 per Day!" Bariatric Multivitamins

In one year I....

tapshoes

By tapshoes, in LAP-BAND Surgery Forums

Recommended Posts

tapshoes    2

tapshoes
Posted

Have become a different person - inside and out! I have gained (yes, gained) so many things:

Closet space. A suit in a larger size takes up more room!

Gained fashion sense - no longer "Omar the tent-maker" specials in old-lady prints or black.

Gained room on chairs - yes indeed, there is a seat around my butt rather than an overhanging rear covering the seat (and then some).

Gained a better appreciation of my behavior and particular food addictions. Recognizing the trigger is an important step in beating it..but I know it will always be a battle.

Gained collar bones, leg muscles, a waist, and facial features - no more Pillsbury doughboy comparisons!

I have gained better relationships with people - not because they treat me any differently, but because I treat me differently. I may never be the 'belle of the ball' but I no longer avoid many social situations, or dip into my vast repetoire of camera avoidance techniques.

I have (re)gained some youthful vitality...I'm game to try anything without worrying about 'fitting in', or slowing someone down, or breaking a ride, or being a fifth wheel - damn it, Im young, vibrant, and rarin' to go!

Gained much more respect for those who work very hard to maintain their health - it isn't easy, it isn't magical, it isn't fun. It is work, and lots of it, but oh so worth it! I may never LIKE to exercise (I absolutely am not one of those people who after 6 week or 6 months of a routine is addicted!), but I will exercise and watch what I eat. I have to. The band is a tool...only a tool.

I have gained the network of all of you - and that support network has been an undeniable, incomparable, unbeatable support network. We may not always agree, we may never meet in person, we may drift off - but for this past year, you have been invaluable to me. May you all have a healthy future and the best of what life offers - whether or not you meet a goal weight or clothing size! We are so much more that that.

Most importantly, I have gained some self respect. Although I still have more to lose (being a slow loser sucks), still have inches to go and probably some plastic surgery is in my future (flabby gut overhang of wrinkly jiggly skin is NOT appealing), my life is good. I am not the person I was - when I was filled with self-loathing, anger, and fat. It is only since losing the weight I realize how I WAS...I just couldn't 'see' it before.

My fellow VV's - I have so much more I could write, but this is just a quick anniversary note - I'm on my holidays but just couldn't let the day pass. And now, back to my shopping for clothes in regular sizes in boutique stores in sunny (and blessedly warm) California. That bright light you may be seeing is the sun reflecting off of my snowy-white skin! I have lots to catch up on...but it will have to wait until early March.....

Your stories have all touched me; I hope you are appreciative of what you have done in the past year, and what lies ahead.

Share this post

Link to post
Share on other sites

tapshoes    2

tapshoes
Posted

Have become a different person - inside and out! I have gained (yes, gained) so many things:

Closet space. A suit in a larger size takes up more room!

Gained fashion sense - no longer "Omar the tent-maker" specials in old-lady prints or black.

Gained room on chairs - yes indeed, there is a seat around my butt rather than an overhanging rear covering the seat (and then some).

Gained a better appreciation of my behavior and particular food addictions. Recognizing the trigger is an important step in beating it..but I know it will always be a battle.

Gained collar bones, leg muscles, a waist, and facial features - no more Pillsbury doughboy comparisons!

I have gained better relationships with people - not because they treat me any differently, but because I treat me differently. I may never be the 'belle of the ball' but I no longer avoid many social situations, or dip into my vast repetoire of camera avoidance techniques.

I have (re)gained some youthful vitality...I'm game to try anything without worrying about 'fitting in', or slowing someone down, or breaking a ride, or being a fifth wheel - damn it, Im young, vibrant, and rarin' to go!

Gained much more respect for those who work very hard to maintain their health - it isn't easy, it isn't magical, it isn't fun. It is work, and lots of it, but oh so worth it! I may never LIKE to exercise (I absolutely am not one of those people who after 6 week or 6 months of a routine is addicted!), but I will exercise and watch what I eat. I have to. The band is a tool...only a tool.

I have gained the network of all of you - and that support network has been an undeniable, incomparable, unbeatable support network. We may not always agree, we may never meet in person, we may drift off - but for this past year, you have been invaluable to me. May you all have a healthy future and the best of what life offers - whether or not you meet a goal weight or clothing size! We are so much more that that.

Most importantly, I have gained some self respect. Although I still have more to lose (being a slow loser sucks), still have inches to go and probably some plastic surgery is in my future (flabby gut overhang of wrinkly jiggly skin is NOT appealing), my life is good. I am not the person I was - when I was filled with self-loathing, anger, and fat. It is only since losing the weight I realize how I WAS...I just couldn't 'see' it before.

Your stories have all touched me; I hope you are appreciative of what you have done in the past year, and what lies ahead.

My fellow VV's - I have so much more I could write, but this is just a quick anniversary note - I'm on my holidays but just couldn't let the day pass. And now, back to my shopping for clothes in regular sizes in boutique stores in sunny (and blessedly warm) California. That bright light you may be seeing is the sun reflecting off of my snowy-white skin! I have lots to catch up on...but it will have to wait until early March.....

Share this post

Link to post
Share on other sites

MONEL    0

MONEL
Posted

My bandiversary was yesterday. Me and 10 of my girlfriends went to Hot Springs to Celebrate. We had a blast! We went to the horse races, hiked, had a massage, ate at a great restaurant, went back to the beautiful Arlington Hotel and watched people dancing, went to bed about 2:30 this morning, had church in my suite (very cathartic), and shopped. It was an amazing way to celebrate losing 163 lbs in one year! I love my ya-ya sisterhood. I would not have wanted to spend the day any other way. We have decided to make it an annual event, not so much to celebrate my lap BAND but our banding together. Thank you to this forum for the strength and for making me realize how lucky I am to have the support systems I have. Year 2 goals are to lose the other 37 pounds, organize a 5k for the local free christian health clinic, to inspire others to live healthier, and just become stronger and healthier every day. GOOD LUCK to everyone and Congratulations to all the successful banders out there.

Share this post

Link to post
Share on other sites

Shinyhappymommy    2

Shinyhappymommy
Posted

163 pounds in one year is a huge accomplishment! I would love to hear more about your journey and how this process has been for you. Have you kept a blog at all? Congratulations, that's fabulous.

Share this post

Link to post
Share on other sites

MONEL    0

MONEL
Posted

I do not have a blog but I have one heck of a scrapbook. I have monthly pictures, lots of journaling and lap-band information. Everyone loves reading my book.

Share this post

Link to post
Share on other sites

travel_anna    1

travel_anna
Posted

Ready -

The most important thing in that list is #5...as long as you keep trying, you can be successful. Even if it takes time.

Although, looking at your numbers, you are down nearly 70 pounds from your high weight to your current weight. That is something to be very proud of.

Anna

Share this post

Link to post
Share on other sites

lhillenburg    0

lhillenburg
Posted

I had to have an emergency 1cc unfill earlier this month, with a subsequent halt in wieght loss with a few pounds gain. I've been pretty down that I haven't reached goal yet. My bandversery was Feburary 15th, but y'alls' posts have cheered me and have given me a good reality check.

In the last year I've...

1. Lost 50 lbs.

2. gone down from a size 18 to 12. I'm having so much fun shopping and finding clothes at regular retail stores.

3. I'm eiter wearing or already shrunk out of all my "skiny" clothes, in fact, I bought a pair of size 10 jeans the other day, because I found myself missing not having something to "try on" with every 5lb weight loss.

4. I completed a half-marathon in January and training for the San Diego marathon on Memorial Day.

5. I went on a backpacking trip in September, and my backpack weighed 35lbs(the same amount I had lost by then) and I couldn't believe I used to carry that same amount of extra weight everyday! I'm curious what that backpack will feel like when I go the grand canyon in April?

6. At work, every single day, someone compliments me on how good I look.

7. I'm starting to be able to see myself at goal, and really believe I can get there.

8. My blood pressure and cholesteral are down.

9. I feel taller and walk taller- I feel comfortable in my own body- which is something I've never felt before.

Share this post

Link to post
Share on other sites

terilynn112    1

terilynn112
Posted

I'm not a VV, but I am a september Samauri. I just wanted to say WOW! You are all doing great. Personally I was discouraged, but after reading your one year bandiversary, I'm encouraged again. Thank you!

teri

Share this post

Link to post
Share on other sites

LilMissDiva Irene    3,282

LilMissDiva Irene
Posted

Have become a different person - inside and out! I have gained (yes, gained) so many things:

Closet space. A suit in a larger size takes up more room!

Gained fashion sense - no longer "Omar the tent-maker" specials in old-lady prints or black.

Gained room on chairs - yes indeed, there is a seat around my butt rather than an overhanging rear covering the seat (and then some).

Gained a better appreciation of my behavior and particular food addictions. Recognizing the trigger is an important step in beating it..but I know it will always be a battle.

Gained collar bones, leg muscles, a waist, and facial features - no more Pillsbury doughboy comparisons!

I have gained better relationships with people - not because they treat me any differently, but because I treat me differently. I may never be the 'belle of the ball' but I no longer avoid many social situations, or dip into my vast repetoire of camera avoidance techniques.

I have (re)gained some youthful vitality...I'm game to try anything without worrying about 'fitting in', or slowing someone down, or breaking a ride, or being a fifth wheel - damn it, Im young, vibrant, and rarin' to go!

Gained much more respect for those who work very hard to maintain their health - it isn't easy, it isn't magical, it isn't fun. It is work, and lots of it, but oh so worth it! I may never LIKE to exercise (I absolutely am not one of those people who after 6 week or 6 months of a routine is addicted!), but I will exercise and watch what I eat. I have to. The band is a tool...only a tool.

I have gained the network of all of you - and that support network has been an undeniable, incomparable, unbeatable support network. We may not always agree, we may never meet in person, we may drift off - but for this past year, you have been invaluable to me. May you all have a healthy future and the best of what life offers - whether or not you meet a goal weight or clothing size! We are so much more that that.

Most importantly, I have gained some self respect. Although I still have more to lose (being a slow loser sucks), still have inches to go and probably some plastic surgery is in my future (flabby gut overhang of wrinkly jiggly skin is NOT appealing), my life is good. I am not the person I was - when I was filled with self-loathing, anger, and fat. It is only since losing the weight I realize how I WAS...I just couldn't 'see' it before.

Your stories have all touched me; I hope you are appreciative of what you have done in the past year, and what lies ahead.

My fellow VV's - I have so much more I could write, but this is just a quick anniversary note - I'm on my holidays but just couldn't let the day pass. And now, back to my shopping for clothes in regular sizes in boutique stores in sunny (and blessedly warm) California. That bright light you may be seeing is the sun reflecting off of my snowy-white skin! I have lots to catch up on...but it will have to wait until early March.....

Great post! I've got most of those things checked!

In one year I

1. Went down a few sizes.

2. Deciding to get um "civil unioned"

3. Stopped to overfill on most seats.

4. Gave up

5. Got started again.

Now this sounds more like me... LOL! Except for 2 option... :thumbup: Congrats to you and SO!!!!!

Share this post

Link to post
Share on other sites

tapshoes    2

tapshoes
Posted

So I am back, and catching up on things. I did note that my posting got there twice - how, I don't know; an ether mystery I guess.

Anyway, I was really pleased to read the stories, and yes, sometimes just sitting back and reflecting on what we HAVE done rather than what we thought we would do, is good for us.

RSG - I am so pleased that you have got started again. Really. I am very pleased and proud of you. And, my sincere and heartfelt congratulations to you and Marci.

Congratulations to all of us (even those that didn't post). May 2009/10 see us all healthy and happy!

Share this post

Link to post
Share on other sites

valvinnek    0

valvinnek
Posted

Congrats to all of your successes. You are all truly an inspriation to other, especially ones that give up and get the courage to face the music and come back. You truly re-motivate other. THANK YOU!!!

Ok, I missed my bandaniversary, but I have 2. Let me explain. I was banded (with gall bladder removal) the first time February 25, 2008. It was a great experience I was losing weight, following the rules and lost around 30 pound. At about 6-8 weeks out I had some really bad pain and felt like I had a gall bladder attack, but it was removed. I had to go in for an emergency procedure to check my bile ducts. Come to find out there was a stone that was lingering and it had passed. Since that, I never had restriction in my 14 cc. band, and motivation and hope became less and less. Some how, I still loved my band, eventhough it wasn't working. My band was filled as much as it could and nothing, it was like I didn't have surgery at all. I don't know exactly the reason, maybe the band was too big, maybe it moved when I was throwing up, but I ended up having it replaced December 29, 2008. I haven't lost much weight since this last surgery, but I had a fill 2 days ago, and now I know what all of you were talking about. I finally had my first "stuck" moment, I finally have felt full after a short time, I already feel better about myself since this past fill. Now I know. I look back at my first band as a practice band, eventhough I was ready a year ago. Maybe it just wasn't the right time, I can't really describe it but I really don't look at the past year as "wasted time". I don't really see December 29th as my "surgery date" I am a double V, you guys were there at the begining of this journey for me and I look forward to see where this year takes me.

Sorry I've been away for awhile, but now that I can really relate, I 'm sure I'll visit more often.

Share this post

Link to post
Share on other sites

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now
Go To Topic Listing LAP-BAND Surgery Forums

  • Trending Products

  • Trending Topics

  • Recent Status Updates

    • Doughgurl

      Doughgurl

      2 days until I fly out to San Diego to have my Bypass Surg. in Tiajuana Mexico. Not gonna lie, the nerves are starting to surface. I don't fear the surgery itself, or the fact that I'm traveling alone, but its the aftermath that I'm stressing about the most, after this 8 week wait. I'm excited to finally be here, but I am really dreading the post surgical chapter. I know its going to be tough, real tough and I think I'm just in my head to much now that the day i here. Wish me luck, Hopefully I'm one of the lucky ones, and everything goes smoothly. Cant wait to give an exciting update,. If there is anyone else have a June bypass or even a recent one, Id love to have someone to compare war stories with. Also, anyone near San Antonio Tx? See ya soon with the future me. 💜
      · 1 reply
      1. Phil Penn

        Phil Penn

        Good Luck this procedure is well worth it I am down to 249.6 lb please continue with the process..

    • LeighaTR

      LeighaTR

      I am new here today... and only two weeks out from my sleeve surgery on the 23rd. I am amazed I have kept my calories down to 467 today so far... that leaves me almost 750 left for dinner and maybe a snack. This is going to be tough for two weeks... but I have to believe I can do it!
      · 0 replies
      1. This update has no replies.
    • Doughgurl

      Doughgurl

      Hey everyone. I'm new here so I thought I should introduce myself. I am 53y/o and am scheduled for Gastric Bypass on June 25th, 2025. I'm located in San Antonio, Texas. I will be having my surgery in Tiajuana Mexico. I've wanted this for years, but I always had insurance where bariatric procedures were excluded. Finally I am able to afford to pay out of pocket.  I can't wait to get started, and I hope I'm prepared for the initial period of "hell". I know what I have signed up for, but I'm sure the good to come will out way the temporary period of discomfort and feelings of regret. I'd love to find people to talk to who have been through the same procedure or experience before. So I look forward to meeting you all. Hope you have a great week!
      · 2 replies
      1. Selina333

        Selina333

        I'm so happy for you! You are about to change your life. I was so glad to get the sleeve done in Dec. I didn't have feelings of regret overall. And I'm down almost 60 lbs. I do feel a little sad at restaurants. I can barely eat half a kid's meal. I get adults meals often because kid ones don't have the same offerings at times. Then I feel obligated to eat on that until it's gone and that can be days. So the restaurant thing isn't great for me. All the rest is fine by me! I love feeling full with very little. I do wish I could drink when eating. And will sip at the end. Just a strong habit to stop. But I'm working on it! You will do fine! Just keep focused on your desire to be different. Not better or worse. But different. I am happy both ways but my low back doesn't like me that heavy. So I listened (also my feet!). LOL! Update us on your journey! I'm not far from you. I'm in Houston. Good luck and I hope it all goes smoothly! Would love to see pics of the town you go to for this. I've never been there. Neat you will be traveling for this! Enjoy the journey. Take it one day at a time. Sometimes a few hours at a time. Follow all recommendations as best you can. 💗

      2. Doughgurl

        Doughgurl

        Thank you so much for your well wishes. I am hoping that everything goes easy for me as well. We don't eat out much as it is, so it wont be too bad in that department. Thankfully. Also, I hear you regarding your back and feet!! I'd like to add knees to the list. Killing me as we speak! I'm only 5' so the weight has to go. Too short to carry all this weight. Menopause really did a doosey on me. (😶lol) My daughter also lives in Houston. with her Husband and my 5 grand-littles. I grew up in Beaumont, so I know Houston well, I will be sure to keep in touch and update you on my journey. I may need some advice in the future, or just motivation. Thank You so much for reaching out, I was hoping to connect with someone in the community. I really appreciate it. 💜

    • Alisa_S

      Alisa_S

      On day 4 of the 2 week liquid pre-op diet. Surgery scheduled for June 11th.
      Soooo I am coming to a realization
      of something and I'm not sure what to do about it. For years the only thing I've enjoyed is eating. We rarely do anything or go anywhere and if we do it always includes food. Family comes over? Big family dinner! Go camping? Food! Take a short ride or trip? Food! Holiday? Food! Go out of town for a Dr appointment? Food! When we go to a new town we don't look for any attractions, we look for restaurants we haven't been to. Heck, I look forward to getting off work because that means it's almost supper time. Now that I'm drinking these pre-op shakes for breakfast, lunch, and supper I have nothing to look forward to.  And once I have surgery on June 11th it'll be more of the same shakes. Even after pureed stage, soft food stage, and finally regular food stage, it's going to be a drastic change for the rest of my life. I'm giving up the one thing that really brings me joy. Eating. How do you cope with that? What do you do to fill that void? Wow. Now I'm sad.
      · 1 reply
      1. LeighaTR

        LeighaTR

        I hope your surgery on Wednesday goes well. You will be able to do all sorts of new things as you find your new normal after surgery. I don't know this from experience yet, but I am seeing a lot of positive things from people who have had it done. Best of luck!

    • Alisa_S

      Alisa_S

      On day 4 of the 2 week liquid pre-op diet. Surgery scheduled for June 11th.
      Soooo I am coming to a realization
      of something and I'm not sure what to do about it. For years the only thing I've enjoyed is eating. We rarely do anything or go anywhere and if we do it always includes food. Family comes over? Big family dinner! Go camping? Food! Take a short ride or trip? Food! Holiday? Food! Go out of town for a Dr appointment? Food! When we go to a new town we don't look for any attractions, we look for restaurants we haven't been to. Heck, I look forward to getting off work because that means it's almost supper time. Now that I'm drinking these pre-op shakes for breakfast, lunch, and supper I have nothing to look forward to.  And once I have surgery on June 11th it'll be more of the same shakes. Even after pureed stage, soft food stage, and finally regular food stage, it's going to be a drastic change for the rest of my life. I'm giving up the one thing that really brings me joy. Eating. How do you cope with that? What do you do to fill that void? Wow. Now I'm sad.
      · 1 reply
      1. summerseeker

        summerseeker

        Life as a big person had limited my life to what I knew I could manage to do each day. That was eat. I hadn't anything else to look forward to. So my eating choices were the best I could dream up. I planned the cooking in managable lots in my head and filled my day with and around it.

        Now I have a whole new big, bigger, biggest, best days ever. I am out there with those skinny people doing stuff i could never have dreamt of. Food is now an after thought. It doesn't consume my day. I still enjoy the good home cooked food but I eat smaller portions. I leave food on my plate when I am full. I can no longer hear my mother's voice saying eat it all up, ther are starving children in Africa who would want that!

        I still cook for family feasts, I love cooking. I still do holidays but I have changed from the All inclusive drinking and eating everything everyday kind to Self catering accommodation. This gives me the choice of cooking or eating out as I choose. I rarely drink anymore as I usually travel alone now and I feel I need to keep aware of my surroundings.

        I don't know at what point my life expanded, was it when I lost 100 pounds? Was it when I left my walking stick at home ? Was it when I said yes to an outing instead of finding an excuse to stay home ? i look back at my last five years and wonder how loosing weight has made such a difference. Be ready to amaze yourself.

        BTW, the liquid diet sucks, one more day and you are over the worst. You can do it.

  • Recent Topics

  • Hot Products

  • Sign Up For
    Our Newsletter

    Follow us for the latest news
    and special product offers!
  • Together, we have lost...
      lbs

    PatchAid Vitamin Patches

    Bariatric Forums

    For Patients

    Health Professionals

    Search Surgeons

    Bariatric Surgeons: Want to research a weight loss surgery surgeon? Enter their last name below to start!

    ×