Six months ago today I had weight loss surgery — my Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy. I’ve lost 100 pounds and can hardly believe the vast and wonderful changes in my life.
The journey to wellness really started a year ago when I made the decision to investigate having surgery. That led to me researching different types of procedures, then going to the free seminar at the surgeon’s office, having my first consult with the doctor and allllll the different evaluations, tests and consults. It was quite a process before the day of the actual operation arrived.
When I talk about wonderful changes, I’m not exaggerating and these are in addition to the actual weight loss, although that alone is amazing. 100 pounds in six months. Holy wow! (I’m sorry. I didn’t get a picture taken yet, but I will. I promise to post one soon.) There has been so much progress in other aspects of my life, too. Let me share some comparisons.
This time last year, slow walking was a challenge that made my body ache and had me short of breath in relatively few steps. Today I do some sort of cardio-aerobic exercise three-four days a week and also take a Tai Chi class twice a week. I did Zumba again tonight — 60 minutes at high, calorie-burning intensity.
Walking up stairs took major effort. I couldn’t ascend normally with one foot on one step, then the next foot on the step above that one and so on. I had to put a foot on the step and then bring the other one up to the same step. I also had to physically help pull myself up with a hand on the railing. Now I pull less and boost with my legs more. Great improvement!
I have loads more energy. With energy and greater physical ease comes the willingness to do more things when I would previously have talked myself into being lazy.
Prior to surgery, I regularly over ate. I could easily eat a full meal and 90 minutes later eat half a pint or more of rich ice cream. These days I consume a few ounces of food at a time.
As far as the kinds of meals I ate, I didn’t concern myself so much with good nutrition. Fried foods, heavy duty carbs, lots of sugar, rich foods. Now I focus on protein first. I think more about incorporating veggies before carbs because there isn’t much room in my stomach. I don’t remember the last time I ate from a McDs or BK or comparable fast food place. If I have candy or baked goods, they’re the rare treat in small portions instead of plowing through M&Ms by the handful. I enjoy selecting, preparing and then eating quality food.
I’m down three to four sizes in my clothes, depending on the style.
Instead of bemoaning and regretting all of the things I couldn’t do because of my size, I’m building a promise list of everything I want to do. I’ve already accomplished some of them!
I sleep better at night and am a lot less tired during the day.
A year ago, I was beaten down and almost devoid of hope. Now I’m pumped, excited and full of anticipation for a great future.
All this and more in only six months. I’m happy and also incredibly grateful. Many people dream of being able to change their lives. Many die without having the opportunity. That’s why I’m grateful every single day that I had the chance to change — and that I took it. I’m really looking forward to the next six months and every day after.
I know the weight loss won’t be as rapid as it has been, but it will be steady and the improvements will continue. There’s a lot of good to look forward to down the line.
I feel like I should do something nice for myself to mark this six month surgiversary. I’m not sure what, but I’ll think of something!
Thank you, everyone, for accompanying me on this journey. I appreciate it!
Weighty Matters 
Yay Mary! Congrats on your 100 pounds! What an amazing accomplishment.
I feel like we are doing our journeys in reverse these days. :p I have a hard time walking and stairs are not my friends. It gives me so much more insight (I think) into what it really means to be seriously overweight. I always understood on an intellectual level. But now I really see just how it can take a toll on your every day life.
I am looking forward to the day when I can take the dog for a walk and have it not be a huge production.
And I’m so very, very happy every time I read about how your quality of life is improving!
WOOHOO!!! You are so fabulous and courageous – what an amazing milestone to accomplish! I am immensely grateful to have the privilege of reading about your commitment to your health and happiness. Thank you for being such an inspiration and an example!
Woo hoo for you! You Rock! You have done so much for yourself. Your mindset is different, and that’s at least as hard as the physical stuff. You are so positive and strong. I love reading about your successes and insights. I can’t wait to see what you decide to give yourself as a reward for losing 100 lbs!
Mary, you are amazing. I’m so proud of you, but more than that, I’m happy for you. You deserve everything you’ve worked so hard for, and it’s so wonderful to come here and read about your successes, and your thoughts and struggles. You are an amazing woman and I look so forward to reading more about your success. Congratulations!
And yes, definitely give yourself a nice present to celebrate. Then tell us about it so we can cheer with you!
So psyched for your well earned rewards on this milestone. You have worked hard and got through all challenges and have been rewarded. You need a spa day and pampering maybe as a celebration? I really need to hear this from you because as the days go by I am having bouts of doubts.