Kristina Mccarthy-Martin

2 years ago I would have never considered having any kind of bariatric surgery. Bariatric surgery is for people who are morbidly obses and that is not me as I have just gained a little weight since my knee surgeries, is what I told myself. The person I see in the mirror is size 16 me, then I look at pictures and see size 22 me....reality check I am FAT.
So, how did I get here? Well, a coworker of mine got the lapband a few years ago and I saw how succesfully she lost weight. I have been on so many diets since the age of 16 that I lost count. Most I had been moderately successful with, but never could maintain long-term. I used to play tennis both in HS and college, however, I got injured in 2001 (22 y.o.) which has resulted in 6 knee surgeries and a looming knee replacement. This has resulted in the gradual decrease in my activity level and a move towards a sedentary lifestyle as I was in self-preservation mode for my knee. Next major event in my life was getting married in 2008. In order to satisfy my new husband's likes in food, I modified my diet. Resulting in....high blood pressure, severe sleep apnea, knee pain, back pain, loss of self-esteem, size 22. So, for the last 2 years I have been thinking about getting the lapband as I lost and regained the same 20 pounds 2 times. In April 2013, I decided it was time to change my life. First I bought a new bike, then I made an apointment for a surgery consultation
I had my first appointment with Dr. Foreman on May 21st. I left upset, as I had already decided I was getting the lapband, but he told me it wasn't the best option with my need to take NSAIDs. Then I had to consider the sleeve or no surgery. A few days later I went to lunch with a very good friend. First time I ever told someone outloud what I weigh, her reaction was "You carry it very well." No I don't. In reality I do not look myself, I look 6 months pregnant. That secured my decision, I need to stop fooling myself and allowing others too. Time to make a life changer!
I am hoping to be approved for surgery in Sep and have my surgery in Oct.

Goal 1: 100 mile bike ride in May 2014
Goal 2: lose 125 lbs, weigh 140 lbs
Goal 3: have a baby, be a good role model for a healthy lifestyle