A New Active Lifestyle

The day I underwent Gastric Bypass surgery, I weighed 350 pounds, was a borderline diabetic with a very bad left knee and had severe sleep apnea. I had difficulty with any physical exertion and was taking three medications for migraines.
 

In the months following my surgery, I lost more than 100 pounds. During that time, I suffered from fatigue and nausea as my body burned through fat instead of the food it was accustomed to. During a trip to Disneyland five weeks postoperative, I was reduced to riding in a wheel chair with a blanket wrapped around me to ward off the chilly night air.

At eight months postoperative, I have lost 125 pounds. While still enjoying many of the foods I did before my surgery in smaller quantities, I watch the carbs and sugars, and still struggle with my old overeating patterns. Food addiction mirrors nicotine addiction for me, and the cravings feel very similar.

My most dramatic improvements have come in my activities. I still coach my 8-year-old son's soccer team, but now demonstrate the skills rather than relying on older players. My son and I ride bicycles every weekend, averaging 14 miles every Sunday on the canals and trails in Mesa and Gilbert. We try to fish every other week, and enjoy a game of horseshoes on Sunday evenings. Twice a week, I work out at a gym in hopes of filling out my wrinkles with new muscles.

My wife appreciates my new energy. I spend evenings and weekends working around the house, something I scrupulously avoided before my surgery. My heat tolerance has improved to the point where I can work outside all day without ill affects as long as I stay hydrated.

I feel better, and receive compliments every day about my new appearance. I enjoy shopping for new clothes now that I've lost 14 inches from my waist and am down from a 3X shirt size to a large. My shoe size went down one size and my feet feel better than they have in years.

I still have 60 pounds to go to reach my goal, and I am confident that I will attain it. Even if it takes time, my trips to the doctor's office are exciting as I see the results of losing fat and gaining muscle. I take only one allergy medication and one for migraines, saving me and my insurance company hundreds of dollars per month. My pressure on my CPAP machine has been reduced by 11 pounds, and may not be needed within 12 months since my sleep apnea has improved dramatically.

I would not trade the feeling I have now for anything, and would not hesitate to do it again.