Caitlin's Journal
The Six Month Mark: Major Milestones
I can't believe it has been six months since I had my LAP-BAND AP�®reg; System. Already, I've experienced amazing changes — including losing 64 pounds to date! I'm so proud of my achievements so far, especially since I'm shedding more than those extra pounds — I'm getting rid of the emotional turmoil I used to feel and replacing it with more confidence. I've learned so much about myself, my body and what's important to me over the past six months. I know that I'm strong, I'm ambitious and I'm becoming healthier.
My mom, Barbara is also making great strides in her weight loss journey. So far, she's lost 43 pounds and looks amazing. She is also noticing positive changes, like bending over to pick something up with ease or walking up 52 steps to her apartment without stopping. I'm so excited for her progress, and we enjoy celebrating our accomplishments together.
In fact, we've been traveling together a lot, which has gotten easier since we've become "fit travelers." Walking through the airport and carrying our bags is no longer a hassle. Our endurance has increased and we can now make our way through the airport without stopping. We even lift our bags into the overhead bin on the plane ourselves. It's a liberating feeling to be able to move freely and with ease through public spaces.
It's also exciting that I can now walk into any store and try something on, which I would have never considered doing before. Now I have the courage to go into the dressing room and try on the clothes, which actually fit! In fact, I just hit a major personal milestone when I bought my first pair of size 12 jeans. In that moment, I felt so satisfied, like a wave of relief washing over me in affirmation of my progress. It was thrilling and gratifying at the same time, knowing that those jeans are a tangible symbol of everything that I'm working for. Those jeans will be a constant reminder of the positive steps I am taking on my journey.
Looking to the next six months, I'm excited to continue toward my weight loss goal of 100 pounds. If I reach it, I think it will be exhilarating but at the same time emotional, knowing that I've closed a chapter in my life and am writing a new one. And the good news is: I'm "holding the pen." I am taking charge of my weight and my hunger, and I have my LAP-BAND AP® System to support me along the way. If I hadn't taken that first step, who knows what story could have been written for me? I had high cholesterol and asthma, and was losing the battle I was waging with my weight.
But now, I have the strength and ability to continue improving my life. I know that my LAP-BAND AP® System will only work as hard as I do, and I'm committed to a healthier, happier life. And, when I finally lose all of the weight, I am going to celebrate. I'm not entirely sure how I'll honor that moment — maybe I'll go on a trip to explore Europe or purchase a piece of jewelry as a symbol. Either way, I'll commemorate the milestone with a celebration of what's most important to me — my health.
And so, I'll sign off this time with a toast to the last six months and the next six months to come — to our health, our happiness and our lives. May we have the strength to continue succeeding in our weight loss journeys and may we inspire others to have the courage to do the same.
Your fabulous work in progress,
Caitlin
