First Surgiversary

I never thought I would get to this day, yet here it is. One year ago at this time, I had just come out of the OR. I was nauseated beyond belief but not in too much pain. I woke up with alcohol wipes under my nose and a fan blowing in my face. The nausea hung around a lot longer for me, resulting in a 5 day stay in the hospital instead of the customary 1 night, but it was ok. It worked out. Other than the terrible potassium shots that I would not recommend, it wasn't too bad at all.

The days after were a little rougher - it hurt to move around but I needed to. My head and hormones were all messed up and I wondered what the hell I had done to myself. This didn't last long either. Before long, I was home from my parents' house, walking up and down the stairs, walking my dog, and going back to work.

Over this past year, I learned that I am braver and stronger than I thought. I have more will-power than I imagined. I have had to deal with my own inner struggle with that fat girl who lives inside of my brain. But slowly and surely, I have come out of my shell. How nice to cross my legs, shop in the regular clothing section, not be scared that I would break a stool or a plastic chair!

Also over the past year, because I came to really believe in and love myself, I have found a gift greater than I ever imagined. I have found love again. He never knew the "fat" me, but he says I was beautiful then too. He roots for me, he celebrates every change in clothes size but also says that I am beautiful inside and out. My mind tells me that it is my body that made this man look at me, and I guess even though it shouldn't be that way, it is just a fact of life. But my heart tells me that he sees all of me - the skinny outside, and the still sometimes fat inside. I am learning that it's ok when she (the fat girl inside) rears her head - she was the boss for a long time, and even she is getting used to the new me.

From 267 lb to 149.8 lb, steady for the past 6 months at 160 or below (my goal weight), I am now engaged to be married in the spring of next year.

Anybody who wonders if this surgery is worth it - listen to what the people here tell you. It works if you work it. The payoff is unbelievable, but it is a lifelong change. Be committed and you will reap the rewards. Hugs and love to all!!!!!!

What a GREAT first surgiversary post.

:) :) :)

So very very happy for both of you! And just keep on!

Congrats on your first surgiversary!
Doesn't time fly?
I love this post, it is so inspirational!

And look at you, getting married!
Congratulations!
I'm sure you will choose a beautiful dress and look so gorgeous on your wedding day.

I wish you continued succes with your sleeve and lots of happiness!

Happy first surgiversary!

Thank you for your post. You’re living proof that it works when you live it.

I’m so happy for you and your fiancé.

Thanks to you all!!!!! :)

Congratulations!
What a difference a year makes!

I am 8 months post-op today and I hope that my 1 year is as encouraging as yours is. :) Congratulations on your engagement!

It seems like we just met you. So happy life is going so well for you. I love how you realize this process isn't about just your weight, there are a lot more important things! Congrats on your Surgiversary!

Fantastic post.

Particularly these bits.

"Over this past year, I learned that I am braver and stronger than I thought."
"Also over the past year, because I came to really believe in and love myself"
"It works if you work it. The payoff is unbelievable, but it is a lifelong change. Be committed and you will reap the rewards."

Congratulations!

Wow!!! So very happy for you! What a wonderful post and and so inspiring for those of us just starting out on our journey. Thanks for being here and for sharing your story! :)

This is all amazing to read. Congrats on the engagement you sound so happy!

What a lovely post, it made me smile. Congratulations on your 1 Year Anniversary. You've done an amazing job and I so happy for you. May you have continued success in happiness for the remainder of your long days! Well done.

Such a great post!! and congrats on your engagement!

This surgery is truly life changing!! I'm reading a lot of studies about bariatric surgery and the consequences, it's too bad that most studies focus on addiction, depression, suicide, divorce etc...when for many people their is a change indeed but for the best!! I actually never saw a study about how people get married after the sleeve, that would be really interesting...