Today is My One Year Bandiversary

[DeLarla 22]

I was banded one year ago today in Mexico. I've lost 67 pounds and gained an entire life. I haven't lost any weight in months. I gained back 7, but lost 4, so for the first time in my life I’m actually maintaining weight loss instead of constantly climbing upward. It's astonishing.

I don't have a port because it got infected and was surgically removed a month after banding. I had a second port put in several months ago, but the original wound wasn't healthy enough, so the second port was also infected. In January, my second port was removed along with a huge chunk of infected flesh. My doctor said I can have a new port after November, but with all the extra bills incurred from the extra surgeries and complications, I won't be able to afford another surgery for a couple years. I've had 4 major band-related surgeries in addition to several surgical procedures done on an outpatient basis. I've had more than my fair share of complications. It's been a rough year, but I would do it all over again right here, right now.

I'm too busy at work to ramble on about how miraculous my band is, but for anyone that might be in the consideration phase, my only suggestion is stop wondering and worrying, and like Nike says, Just Do It! I'm thrilled. Astonished. Grateful. Blessed. I have hope.

Peace

P.S. Attached are some pics that Ms. Penni put together for me. That's me & Francesca in the hospital, me with a fresh band and her waiting to go into surgery. She's lost 90 pounds, I've lost 67. I've got some catching up to do, but SIXTY SEVEN POUNDS GONE ROCKS MY WORLD! And portless!

[DeLarla 22]

Penni is working on more pics. I love this one in my kitchen cause since losing weight I bought a friggen Harley (at 42 years old) and that's a windblown pic of me after a hard ride! Whooda thunkit?

Here's a pic of my scar after my 2nd port removal where they had to take out a chunk of infected, inflammed tissue.

[Vera 7]

Lisa, Happy Band-day to you! :banana

[Mita 2]

Happy Band Day Lisa you look great and to buy a Harley and be able to do something that you love is just a WOW time in your Journey of all the good things to come.

[DeLarla 22]

Here's something Ms. Penni put together. Say hi to Kitty Milo. Thanks everyone!

Today's NSV: Almost mini skirt, no hose & cha-cha sandals at work today.

[DeLarla 22]

Me & Francesca getting matching bands.

[Penni60 45]

Isn't she just the cutest thing?????

[Mariposa Bella 3]

LIsa Happy Bandiversary and yes you are a sexy thang!!!!!

[Iluvharleys 15]

Great Pictures! You've come a long way! Ride on Harly Mama!

[TrishS 3]

Happy Band Day Lisa!!!!! You have gone thourgh so much and have stayed strong thourgh it all.. and you look WONDERFUL!!!!!! Keep up it girl!!!

[paula 4]

Omg you are gorgeous! My God!!! I actually had to do a double take when I scrolled down to the collage of pictures... I can NOT believe how awesome you look. Who the hell cares if you are portless - you are one hot looking gal!

wooohoooo! Congratulations on your first *of many* banded years!!

you deserve a standing ovation!

[gunn4ya 0]

Lisa,

Happy happy Band Day. And treat yourself to something yummy it just doesnt have to be for your tummy (smile)!!!

[HarleyNana 10]

Nice pictures, congratulations on hanging in there Harley girl.

[angiebell 0]

Happy band day! You look awesome girl! Great job.

[alatina 1]

Congratulations-hope all goes well for you in the future also.