[Dx E]

Hello All.
I’ve been reading here on and off since the site first came up,
But just dropped out of “Lurker/Reader” mode and wanted to say Hi.
I’m almost at my 5 year Surg-iversary.

BMI of 51 before surgery,
Now at 24.3. (where it has been for about 4 years.
Just had Blood tests/Labs last week,
And all is still perfect.
Just wanted to share-
5 years out, and life is grand!!

I had a rough start with complications
But passed on through and on to healthy life.

Glad to see so many using this support system
And growing toward improved lives each day.
(familiar faces and new acquaintances)

Best Wishes-
Dx

[DocSanae]

Welcome to the board, thank you for joining us officially.
Congratulations on your wonderful weight loss, and on your success in maintaining.
((((((HUGS)))))) May your journey stay on the good track for always.

[TamTamW]

Welcome to the site, you have done so wonderful in your journey congrats. Glad to have you aboard.

[beckamarie]

Welcome Officialy Its so nice to have a veteran here for those of us who are fairly new. Bree is another one I think that is 5 yrs out also, so anyways its great having people who are farther out to ask questions and be mentored by

[DeMarie]

I have a question!!!! You are almost 5 years out - how has the journey been...has it been hard to keep the weight off after the first year or so - we all worry that we'll gain it back . Does the tool still work as well as in the beginning? Are you still eating about 1000 calories? What tips do you have for long term success? Thanks!

[not quite Barbie]

Welcome! So glad to hear you've been successful. I think we all worry that "it just won't work" and that we'll gain it all back. So it really helps to hear old-timers tell us that they've kept it off. Interested to see your answers to Denise's questions above.

[Trulykath]

I love hearing that 5 years out, things are still good....!! I have a friend who is like 6 years out, and she has regained substantial weight....

Glad you stepped forward...nice to meet you!

[Christy0283]

Glad you joined us. Thanks for the encouragement and congratulations on your lasting success!

[Dx E]

Originally Posted by DeMarie

I have a question!!!! You are almost 5 years out - how has the journey been...has it been hard to keep the weight off after the first year or so - we all worry that we'll gain it back . Does the tool still work as well as in the beginning? Are you still eating about 1000 calories? What tips do you have for long term success? Thanks!

DeMarie,
I sometimes feel guilty for saying so,
But it has been easy. (well, once I got past my first year)
Old-Profile-from-OH

I actually eat about 2100 to 2400 Calories a day,
But have developed the habit of a healthy balanced, Low-Glycemic range of foods.
What has “made it work for me…”
is establishing habits those first couple of years
That keep me from having to struggle later on.
Yes?
Plain ole- “Protein First, No ‘empty calories,’ little to no sugar,
drink plenty of water and follow my doc’s guidelines for Vitamin supplementation.
Hardly ever use “protein shakes” or protein supplements,
(getting my protein from food choices.)
I get in some exercise daily, eat 5 to 6 smaller meals (or combo of Meals/snacks)
And enjoy life.

I often say to those just starting to advance their diets and
Struggling to get in their protein--
“It DOES Get Easier!”

I would have to say (IMHO) it’s the same for folks 2 years out….

Best Wishes-
Dx

[qt82699]

welcome, glad you finally decided to say hello!! congrats on your 5 years, you have done an awesome job!! it is nice to hear from ppl who are further out and still managing so well!!