halfwayinOH

After several attempts to make a final decision and to complete the approval process, I made a commitment and moved forward with the surgery.  I wish that I had not allowed other people's fears keep me from moving forward.  This has been the best thing that I have done for myself in a LONG time!  I weighed 343 at my heaviest and was initially a candidate for the gastric bypass surgery.  During my second attempt, to decide to move forward with the surgery approval, I joined Weight Watchers.  My 6 month attempt at dieting resulted in a loss of 115pounds, taking me down to 228.  I got a little confident and the weight slowly crept back on.  At 300, I decided that I didn't want to go back and I forged ahead with the process.  I had my surgery on Nov. 18th, 2008.  I weighed 297 at the time of surgery.  I am now 8 mos out and I am down almost 80 lbs!!!  I got a bit discouraged, because I thought that got my weight should be coming off faster.  My first 2 mos resulted in a 30lb loss.  From there it felt like I was not doing so well.  Between fills, my loss seemed minimal...9 lbs, 7lbs, 2 lbs ...  I needed to incorporate more exercise - weights/resistance and cardio.  Once I felt comfortable with really exercising, my metabolism increased and I have seen better results.  I have recently had surgery that is limiting my activities.  This was scary, because I didn't want to spend 6 weeks with limited exercise.  I don't want my metabolism to slow down again.  I am now in week 3, following my surgery and I am making sure that I focus on taking in proteins, drinking plenty of fluids, and making sure that I am as mobile as I can be.  I have been able to continue with losing weight, but I am making sure that I recognize that it is important for me to heal properly and be able to get back into my routine, when I am ready.