Thanks for sharing this... I am actually having my surgery on 2-21-12 (FAT TUESDAY!!!). Although I have not had your struggles yet, I do have people telling me I am taking the 'Easy Way Out'... I really don't think they understand the position that I am in, or my reason for wanting to be in a different place. I am blessed to have a wife and three kids that are my own personal support group. Good luck to you and good luck on your endeavors.
Your report here is so sensible and heart warming. I just noticed it when looking for something else, but something about it drew me in.
I'm so glad to hear you got your mind and body to the same place and that you used the surgery as a life changing lesson. I fear people doing this because it seems to be offered more and more these days and the mental problems are not addressed.
couldn't agree more! I hate when people ask how you lost weight and you mention weight loss surgery along with diet and exercise - and they say, OHHH you had surgery thats why you lost the weight! I have to explain that WLS doesn't drive me to the gym, or cook my food, or put a gallon of water in my stomach. Great analagy re: bowling!!! Really enjoyed your video even tho Im 2 years out too - but yup struggle (i was 250 and now a competitive body builder & personal trainer!)
Your videos were so important for my research before I decided to have my DS. Your perspective is so different than what anyone else is offering & you really cover the mental, emotional & psychological aspects extremely well. People don't understand that getting your "head right" is almost the MOST important part of the WLS journey. I know it must hurt to read what the "haters" have to say but they aren't you & can't walk a mile in your shoes. WE know the truth & we have no regrets! You ROCK!
Thank you for making this video. I'm considering bariatric surgery and it was good to hear your story and the good, bad and ugly behind weight loss surgery. How much did your surgery cost in total and how did you pay for it?
I wonder if you could talk a little more about how you said you change the people you hang out with. how did people handle that? how did YOU handle that?
Hey you look magic as usual, agree with you however I dont make any apoligies for my choices and I self funded my surgery my body my choice, quite worried about gaining weight again OMG doesn,t bare thinking about but yes I am aware that can happen xxx love listening to you SMART COOKIE xxx
I had the RNY in July 2011 and I understand fully what you meant by people being nasty and saying mean things about the weight loss not being natural and that I took the easy way out. I have bone issues that make it hard for me to exercize like a regular person even skinny so all that extra weight was litterally crushing my bones and I was becoming severly disabled. This has not been easy. I had a problem with portion control. I also was a bottomless pit. You are inspring!
I found your videos both informative and inspiring. You were beautiful then and you're beautiful now. I've considered wls for years now and finally decided to do it. People don't understand that everyone doesn't lose weight the same way. I work out in the gym regularly and NEVER lost more than 15 pounds and then would turn around and regain. I'm 24, I have high cholesterol, and look 35. I'm not doing it just to look great, but to be healthy as well. I thank you for your videos!
thank you for posting your videos...i am going to have the sleeve in a month and you hit so many key points. When you are talking im shaking my head up and down and i understand everything you are saying. I know what it's like for food to have a hold on me. I also have PCOS so that's amazing that your symptoms are gone! Again thank you for the inspiring and informative videos.
The way I see it, there are always going to be people putting you down..... the same people who judged you for being overweight will judge you for losing it the 'unnatural way'. Haters are going to hate, who cares. Im proud of you,congrats!
Thank you so very much for sharing your story. You are very brave for doing the surgery and then posting videos about your journey. I am going in for RNY on Jan 23. Getting as much information as I can and your video was very helpful as well as encouraging.
I had lapband surgery in 2009 and because I didn't fully understand what to expect I haven't lost as much weight as I had wanted. Now I am back on track exercising 45 to 60 minutes 6 to 7 days a week. But it's almost like starting again.
Also, my daughter is going for her consultation today for the sleeve and that has given me additional motivation to get in gear and to fully commit to the changes not only for myself but for her.
this video is so informative.iam so confused on which surgy to have .i dont know if vsg will help me because iam 307lbs.i dont know if i should have gastric or vsg.i strouggle so hard to lose weight on pre op deit i go to the gym just about everyday and i have been on a strict deit and i still cnt seem to lose.you look amazing.
Thank you for posting this very informative video. My husband had the same surgery last week and mine is scheduled for 12/27. I'm excited and anxious for my surgery and your videos are inspiring me to go through with it.
Hi, and thank you, "the hand of God" will take me through this. Gastri Bypass surgery is set for Dec 27 and your inspiration has reassured me that I've made the right decision for my health and my life. Thanks again!
I just wanted to thank you for your honesty and for taking the time to be open with the rest of us about your journey. I am tentatively scheduled for Feb 1st, 2011 for my VSG, pending insurance approval. Doing my research and finding your videos has been very enlightening and they have reinforced my own convictions that I am doing the right thing for me.
Thank you for your comment about how people state "its the easy way out" It seems only the people who don't have this kind of issue. I am scheduled for surgery in Jan 2012 and I have had this comment thrown at me already. This is a tool but not the solution! When I quit smoking I used the "patch" for a little while and I have been smoking free for 5 yrs (hence the weight gain..lol) I am using the surgery the same way. The tool..Thank you!!
Everything you said before having your surgery was EXACTLY what I did. I had my surgery 1 week ago. Your video was very informative and comforting and I think you look and sound fantastic. You are truly an inspiration to those , like me, that are struggling everyday with this addiction. The negative people are the toxins that kept us fat. They can't stand that we can look and feel good too. Remember, misery loves company. Keep up the good work and i hope to be in your shoes one day soon!
Yr vid made me cry !! I love all the stuff you put up and I agree with you 100 percent !! I am 2 months post op (Sleeve) and down 40 lbs and I am working on my emotions .. It is more mental than anything else and everything you said in this vid means alot to me, and is sooo true ... I am working on myself and even before I went under the knife I would see yr vids and they inspired me !! So thank you very much and keep posting !!! XoXo
U look awesome and it is clear that u feel great and r happy with the results u have achieved. Don't let anyone tell u anything different, I recently had the roux-en-y performed 4 months ago and i am now 65lbs down and no one can take my joy and u shouldn't let anyone do it to u. Keep doing great and i would like tips on eating and dieting if u have any...................................THX 4 the inspiration
Thank you so much for your post! I am 16 weeks in after having VSG. I really appreciate this video. You have done so well! I feel like I just went to VSG Church. Thank you,
Thank you so much for posting.. I enjoyed watching your video.. I'm in the process of being referred to a surgeon.. It's nice to see and hear from people that have gone threw what I will be going threw.. I subscribed and look forward to watching more videos.. Have a great day! :)
I really love ur videos and mean people suck. Im getting my surgery in december and ur videos help me stay focused and positive. Please keep sharing and u are an inspiration to people like me who have tried and failed and feel horrible about myself. Thanks for all u do
did you get the sleeve? the ladies where i went for info told me that they take out so much of your stomach the hormone (grellin) that is responsible for hunger kind of shuts off and you don't have the cravings and appetite/hunger. did this happen for you?
Very inspiring, you have taken responsibility for your health and combined all available treatments. I'm impressed. Although I don not need a gastric band I have taken motivation from what you say about making choices . Thank you
Thank u for ur very long and informative video. I am getting my VSG done on Feb 3rd, 2012. It will be a quick fix in that it will shrink my stomach down to a small sleeve, and I suspect my high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes will go away... but I know retraining the mind is going to be difficult. I am going to look for ur 3 month video. With 1/2 a million views, ppl are going to be nasty... please try to ignore them tho. Thank u again! ~JEN
Awesome video...just starting my WLS journey...thanks so much for posting...i am so sorry that you get negative feedback...I guess I might too when I start posting...take care..xxoo
Awesome video...just starting my WLS journey...thanks so much for posting...i am so sorry that you get negative feedback...I guess I might too when I start posting...take care..xxoo
Hi I'm D- just wanted to tell you. I'm day #8 on pre-op diet and you have helped me so much. I like watching your vlog because you are articulate, and have a good message everytime. I hope my videos will be as good as yours. Can you tell me did you ever get scared?
Thank you, Kellwanda, this is my favorite of ALLLLL your videos because (1) you talk about addressing the people who way EASY WAY OUT, and (2) you are so right on about how easy it is to regain. I am recommitted to staying thin after watching your video!
i know that will end and i know that this is my time to make these changes, which i think i AM doing, just not fast enough for my taste. but it is a process right? i have been in therapy for years but the last two have been spent preparing specifically for WLS so i feel like i've gotten to a point emotionally where im working and willing to work...progress not perfection, right? right.
i am about 9 weeks out from surgery and have found that although i don't eat it exclusively anymore i still eat processed foods...i wondered if you had a guide to the clean eating? i mean, was there a book you used as inspiration or anything? i actually went through a drive thru for the first time today for a chicken burrito from taco bell, i was in a crazy hurry. i am in that stage where eating is just a pain in the butt cuz im not hungry and measuring isn't practical when out and about...
I have been gaining and losing 50 pounds the 'natural way' for the past 5 years and I don't know what to do about it. I can't seem to control my weight. I'm so frustrated. My weight fluctuates 50 pounds within a 4 to 5 month period, up and down like that.
Thank you for the wisdom you shared. It is invaluable to me, Iam getting gbs next month and just seeing the results and life you now enjoy makes me less scared! ty God bless!
Now she is a level 4 Yoga instructor and teaches other Aerobic classes, with no stretch marks of speak of. In most cases doctors want the sale over the truth.not saying your circumstance is different, just saying trying hard can always be harder if finding the correct way to make it easier to achieve.
Not true in all. Intense training can tighten the skin over the right regiment. The face is an example of how your body wants an equilibrium and you lose weight by working out properly. I have been a personal trainer for 11 years and sister had a problem of about 110 lbs over the norm, at 5"0 tall and + worst case scenario Thyroid condition.
You've done so well. I had the VSG in December of 2009 so I'm nearly 2 years post op already. I started at 403 and am currently at 266. I've been tossing around the same few pounds for so long now and haven't been able to lose anything significant in a really long time. I'm pretty frustrated. I really like your videos..think I'm going to go back in your library and look for more motivation. Thanks for sharing.
I just want to thank you, I want to get GPS because I can not do the things I want to do, I have kids, I can't do the things with them I want to do, and I want to be healthy, your videos have really helped me, so thank you for all that you have done.
Thank you SO MUCH for your comments! You are so inspirational to me. I am trying to take a very pragmatic approach to this process. I know it ISN"T the "easy way out" and I know I have a lot to learn. (My surgery date is 10-10-11). I am watching all I can, and I can see that a positive attitude and education and figuring out what got me here in the first place are all keys to my success. I started my own blog today and I just hope I can be as big an inspiration to others as you have been! xo
Your videos are terrific - Thank you! I'm just revisiting the option of WLS for myself and what you talk about feels like you are talking directly to me and saying so much of what I am thinking - So thank you for sharing and I wish you the very best!
I watch your videos for support. Any tips on pushing thru the last 35 pounds? I need help! My doctor's support group was not helpful for me. Thank you!
I have watched all of your videos and you are AMAZING! Please don't let the haters stop you from sharing.
I had the sleeve and a week later my mother died suddenly. I fell apart. I did not follow the "plan"of liquids and I am struggling to get my momentum back and finish the weight loss. I lost 65 pounds so far. You give me strength!!!!
Please keep posting! Having a real perdon vs an ad by a Doctor is so helpful!
Really great video.. when I listened to your reasons for getting WLS, they were so similar to mine for considering it. It is so frustrating when it feels like you can excel at everything else in your life except this one thing. I have my initial consultation in a few weeks for VSG and I am also looking at this as a reboot and a clean slate to change my thought and habits and life. Stories like yours encourage me that it's really possible. Congrats on your success! :)
Wow, I can relate so much to everything about your weight loss journey. I went from watching makeupl videos to being excited I found you on here. When I lost 75lbs, I too realized I let all of the wrong ones in my life. Most all of my friendships have fallen apart and i'm new with adjusting to a new and different life. I kind of felt alone in that and I feel so much better seeing that you and i'm sure many others dealt with it too. Congrats on your weight loss, you look amazing!
i dont mean this in a mean way, but you were a bitch than. you could just tell. i think it was mainly because you were unhappy. it deffinitly came out though. you seem happier now and like you have a better attitude. it seems like you made your self ugly than by your attitude. any way not trying to be a dick. i hope everything works out well. i like you better now. not because the way you look either. sorry i read people well.
Your approach to your journey is similar to mine! Trying to learn a new way to live versus eating as few calories as possible to lose as fast as possible. thank you for sharing and for your commitment to a balanced sustainable approach ! Finally someone not talking about 800 calorie days!!! Congratulations!!!
Love your videos!! Thank you for sharing the good, bad & ugly. It's very sad that some people are haters and leave nasty comments, but thank you for making your videos and being strong..you help us TONS!!
Thank you, thank you, thank you for your videos! I have watched them all I think, unless there is more after this one.
I am so ready for the surgery. It has taken 25 years for me to get in a place to do it. This diet, that diet....so many...and the gyms...nothing stuck...lose 10 gain 20. Three people I know have had it done and say they are SO glad they did. I know this is my final option. I just turned 62 & have a "bucket list" of thngs I want to do, including finishing nursing. Bless U
You are one of my favorite wls vloggers and I always learn so much from watching you. It upsets me to think of people leaving hateful comments on your videos. I am so glad you are strong and didn't let that keep you from making videos. Lots of info from this video helped me but at the end you talked about transfer addiction and that is something I see is starting to come out in me with shopping. Need to get control of that. Congratulations on your success and love to see you so happy.
Thank you so much for all of your videos about your surgery and weighlost! Going to do a sleeve in 5 days and I sat here in front of my computer and saw all of your videos and it really strenghtened my decision about my operation! You have done an exelent job and you are beautiful both on the inside and the outside. Sorry if something is spelled wrong, I am from Sweden... Hug!
I had the full on RNY I lost...well it is bouncing around at the moment between 201 to like 215...from originally 330 the day of my surgery...
it isnt easy...I am going to an endo doc soon...I am having issues with my sugar crashing and some PCOS symptoms...so hopefully we can get all those things under wraps...
anyway i just wanted to say you are an inspiration...keep up the good work I envy you...and you helped me put the fork down just a minute ago so know you make a difference
:) Thank you for the words of wisdom...I have a coworker who had the gastric sleeve...you loose yes with it...but it is far more challenging than say the full on RNY...you did 100% or 90% thats fantastic...
She knows nothing about me other than what happens at work. She doesn't know what I have tried to lose weight nor does she know what struggles I have faced in my life. My point in telling you this is I know how u feel when it comes to nasty comments about "taking the easy way out" and to just keep your head up and please don't let the comments and negative people get to you. Just tell them to GET LOST!!! No one knows anything about u other than u! congrats & i hope I can be as successful as you!
totally fine with me before I told them and ppl that i work with that I am getting this surgery. Since I told her, she has become very rude to me and its very difficult to work with her and I asked her if it bothered her when I talked about thei surgery because she always looked aggrevated when I talk about it. She said yes it bothers her because she feels like my surgery is pointless because it should be saved for people who try and I have never tried. That is what she said to me...
I am getting the RNY gastric bypass on September 12th. I am so greatful that I got approved for it. I weigh about 430 lbs and I feel like I need this chance to gain control of my life to be able to go in the right directions and you are an inspiring person to watch and see success right in front of my face. In the end of this video, u talked about how u get really awful comments on one of the vids... and I just want to let you know that I understand how that feels. Someone I work with was...
I also have PCOS and just wanted to give you hope about having kids. I was able to get my weight down (not goal weight but in the 150s - I am 5'2") through diet and Metformin and I have 3 children. It can be done. Good luck on that when you so choose and congrats on all your success!
very strong, informative video. Don't let those negative comments get you down, you are doing so much good in a lot of lives by making your journey public.
QUESTION!! lol ...were you skeptical about going to Mexico and could you tell me the exact facility or doctor? My mom and fiance are SUPER skeptical. Im so ready to do this. Ive been waiting for years... and I also just wanted to say thank you for your posts. My fiance and I watched this particular one and I teared up.....he was like "is this how you feel too?" Thank you for giving me words to express my feelings better and also that its not the easy way out!. Btw..U look Awesome!! XOXOXO
Hello Kellawanda, I'm scheduled for VSG on Sept 6 and I had a few questions. How much do you weigh now? Did you opt to get the Tummy tuck after a year? Did you doctor advise you not to chew gum? What non-food source of protein powder and/or supplement do you suggest i use for my first week post surgery. Thank you so much for posting these especially motivating videos! I love you for that!
Thank you for your brutal honesty~ I love that style of no b.s. and totally putting it "out there"..... very effective for me to see that you have struggled and become successful despite the challenges you faced. Thanks again for this video and I'm subscribing to remind me about the things in my post-surgery life I still need to address emotionally!!
I also eat mostly vegetarian and have lost 100% of my excess weight post RNY-(120lbs)- I eat clean- and exercise every day-- and I can say I am happier than I ever knew was possible---but I was fat since early childhood- and depression was my closest companion---until I felt "good enough"-post RNY-- I am now the me I was meant to be. thanks for leading the charge-- you have inspired us all. I am having reconstruction done soon- lots of shrinkles.
Very good comment about no one saying to those who choose other medical options thast it's the easy way out. You are looking wonderfully beautiful...Love the hair. :) Good analogy for the bowling, completely understand. Yay for the PCOS woman! My fertility doc has confirmed I have no signs, blood work or ultra sound of PCOS anymore either. I very much identitfied with your REASONS for having WLS, very much me also. Active, eat right, wanting mind to macth body. Great video. :)
Your videos are absolutely the best and most informative that I've come across. Don't take any of them down! People need to see the truth about obesity/wls and it's affects on the whole person, not just the physical appearance! I applaud your success, and you are a huge motivator for me in my own personal wls journey.
I can see such a change in you from that first vid to now! (besides the whiter teeth, lol) you smile bigger, you wear makeup, you're hair looks good, you actually look like you
I felt like you were telling my story. I hope that you don't mind, but I'm going to post a link to this video because I feel that you just speak the truth so eliquently that I hope that your words will help explain to family and friends exactly how I feel about my RNY. I too had PCOS and am now down from 307 at a highest weight to 217 today. 90 pounds down and 67 to go! :-) Thank you.
Congrats on your success sweetie!! great tips great Video Amazing progress you such a smart lady and love watching all your videos.....thank you for all your support and love the bumper thing cause I so have to see in my head to learn so thanks for this...love ya big hugs...love rosemary
Congratulations Kel! You are phenomenal and your success is an inspiration to all of us. Great video with alot of good info not only for newbies but also for us 'oldies' who are still working to get to our goal. Thanks Kel!
Kellawanda, brava! this was an excellent sharing of your life! I am 57 yrs old, and getting ready to see a surgeon for a lap band. I'm scared shitless but your honesty really helps. For a young girl you are very smart. keep up the good work, and by that I mean sharing the message, not just about weight loss, but all the "stuff" that goes along with it!
Great video. I wanted you to know You are a terrific motivator. My weight loss is not going so well, but at least I am more active than I was. Set up the pool and try to use it everyotherday as I still have an ulcer on the bottom of my foot. Im also taking thyroid meds as mine was underactive. Been trying to get a handle on bingeing, still have moments, but I have way more raw foods available if I do. Glad to see you making updates for us. You are such a caring person :D
Thanks for posting and please don't delete any of your videos. They are very informative and motivating. You look awesome and I love your attitude. Thanks for reminding us that it is a tool and we have to use it or it will not work. Please keep us posted every once in a while.
wow, what a powerful video. I feel like you sent me a personal hug. There's nothing more wonderful than hearing someone finally stand up and tell the critics they are WRONG! Personally, i only told my family i had surgery &for the very same reason of being judged- told no-one else. Its shocking how unsupportive & malicious people can be when they hear you've had WLS. Without the willpower and change of mindset, nothing can be achieved. Fix the brain before the body. Never a truer word spoken. X
nice bowling analogy. Will have to use that one. I will say I am 1 year out and YES you have been inspiring to me. You have paved the way for so many of us made us THINK. Thanks again for continuing to make us THINK and share your journey
was ove a size 16, I didnt felt at home. The ladies didnt treat me that way, for the first time i was on the other side of the fence, i was the skinny girl in the room. once i told the girls that i had wls then they loosen up to me, just sad
to me. I started talking for her explaining how it feels to be overweight. So tonight i went to another reunion with some old college friends and every women in the room
weight and how she didnt get a job because ofher weight. Another girls just said to her,you need to lose weight soon!. I kinda cried because I felt like she was talking
@bandedwendy and @kellawanda, I am at a size 6 now but jus the other day i was hanging with some old college friend and one of the girls was talking about her
thanks so much for putting it out there kellawanda you have been so kind and such an inspiration to me. so happy to see you are doing well. my new dr wants me to try a different avenue first so i figured i would give it one last try. she is very supportive and that is new to me so i figured i would try one last time for her. and its only a 3 mo trial if it doesnt work she will give me the go ahead for surgery. =))
I just want to say thank you, thank you thank you thank you so much for everything you've taught me. Everything I have to say all ends with a heart-felt warm thank you. You have helped this stranger more than you know. I needed you and didnt even know it till I found you. Once again thank you!
Great videos. I could not agree with you more. Next month I'll also be 2 years post-op from the VSG and like you have lost 100% of my excess weight. I tell everyone it's easy to lose weight when you're not hungry all the time. The VSG changes your relation to food. Continued success!! George
I love love love your videos. I am now three months out and down 51 lbs. Since surgery. You helped me so much. I am learning so much about myself since WLS. At my pre surgery pysch eval. The dotor said creating a support group is the key to sticking with weight loss. You have become part of that support. Keep up good work.
...go on making your videos because everytime I feel weak, I come back to your channel and watch your strugle...and I feel hope again. Your videos make me regain my will power.
Kelly, it's so great watching another video from you. Happy aniversary from your surgery.
You know what? I really think that you should write a book about your journey. You are a psychologist who now is learning about nutrition...and the most important thing, you know for real how difficult it is to lose weight, some of the reasons that made you stay that big, etc.
If you decide to do it, let me know. I'll be looking forward to buy it.
Kisses and hugs...you are so inspirational, please go on!
Oh & THANK YOU for the comments about skin issues! I lost over 150lbs the "natural way" and guess what.. I looked wrinkly and had major skin issues that only a PS can fix to look even close to normal, I was only 21.. and I regained almost all of it over the last decade.. So, yes- to those suggesting that losing weight through diet and exercise will prevent the skin issues, or that exercise will magically "firm up" the skin, you don't have any knowledge of what you speak. /rant (peeve of mine)
God's hand reaching out to pull you out of a hole.
Exactly right. Before surgery there was never enough.I was scared to death because my eating was so out of control. I was looking for something I couldn't find. I found what I was looking for and it's called VSG. Keep up the good work. Thank you.
Thank you for posting this very real vlog! I especially love the commentary on the pounds "forever" lost. So many people including other WLS patients have this unrealistic idea that this is the magic wand they've always dreamed of.. If a good number of people who have WLS are walking into it with this mindset, you'd have to believe most of society doesn't know better either. Also the analogy of "bumpers" is about the best one ever. I may steal this!
Really Proud of you, you are an inspiration! I am going to be starting my weight loss journey too I am currently @ 200lbs, I am thinking to document this journey here on YOUTUBE. Thank you for posting these videos. Keep keeping on!
Im very glad you post your vidoes they are very helpful. I had tryed it all i never was a yoyo dieter i stayed up and down 20 for 15 years till meds gave me a large gain at 382 I was lossing me and my surgery gave me back to me. Im down 135lbs and feel much better i have a about 60to 80 lbs more Id like gone. but for one year 135 from nothing amen.. thank God for this tool to safe me to give me life to live and injoy. keep posting please.
Love ur videos, im down 120 # since my gastric bypass 7 months ago and I feel so much better and it is great hearing from people that went through the same thing
You are so incredible and a true inspiration! Your courage and resolve and research and generosity have more impact than you'll ever know. Thank you! Thank you!
i can say nothing but THANK U,u were my guide all though my ups and downs,i had the surgery 8 months ago only after i saw your videos and understood all about it ,it really helped me to know that there is ppl who strugle just like me and feel the same way as i feel,i was so deppressed when i was over weight and now i'm a happier healthier lighter person bcoz of u,thank u sooo much
i am proud of you that you have kept your weight off. especially since its been 2years not many people have kept there weight off that long. i dont think weight loss surgery is wrong. i think everyones' circumstance is different and its not fair when people are so narrow-minded they dont see that. you are a success story---rejoice!!!
@Kellawanda: regrading the comment from negative people. Thats why theyre negative, you are so motivating and inspiratational!. Thank you so much for your vids. Remember for every one negative person there is 10 people like us who love and respect your vids. Thank you so much for doing this!!! I truly believe that God brought me to your page 2 years ago, and i'm happy that i havent stopped watching. Thank you, thank you, thank you. :)
I LOVE your videos and when I feel like I need to find some information or feel confused about what I'm doing, I often come and find one of your vids to clarify whatever it is I'm confused about. You've been there, and done it so well, a real success story that I aspire to, and you should be very proud. I appreciate your honesty and frankness on the subject. You look Amazing BTW! Thank you. - Krysten xo
2. I just want to say thank you for your honesty and frankness about your journey. I will be going for the sleeve procedure on Sept. 6/11 and since making the decision to have the procedure I have watched your entire series of videos. You have given me hope that this tool will help me live the life I was meant to live as well. So thank you again from the bottom of my heart.
Hey dear. I am so happy to see someone who is doing well with the gastric sleeve because all of the ppl i meet at suuport groups are there for revisions, gained most of the weight back and have had thousands of dollars worth of plastic surgery only to have gained it back. im doing well seven months out lost 108lbs. Thanks for sharing the truth.
I had my VSG May 20, every since that day, I have not been able to keep NOTHING down. I am either vomiting, having diarrhea or in extreme stomach pain. I have been admitted back into the hospital twice. It's been now 8 weeks since my surgery & because I can't keep anything down, I now have a pic-line in my arm & I'm hooked up to a special iv called TPN everyday! I still am not eating or drinking. this has been the hardest thing that has ever happened to me. :-( I'm happy it worked for you
You are such and inspiration. There are not many people on YouTube who have had the gastric sleeve. Your videos have helped me pre and post op. I can always turn to them when i need some motivation. You are doing great!
It breaks my heart when I people post nasty comments on someones page. There's a lot of horrible people out there. Just continue being humble and staying true to yourself. You are such an inspiration to so many people. You should be proud! Keep up the great work. Stay blessed :)
Excellent vid. I was so amazed to see the "cut back to the old you". do you ever stop when seeing those old pix and clips and cry? I do when I see the old me. You have done a phenomenal job with your transformation. Congrats! Keep the vids coming girl. Onward!
@bandedwendy: It just started hitting me recently...as you saw I got emotional talking about it in the video. Before I think I just put out a strong front and didnt allow myself to feel how down I was over my weight. Now it comes out in little spirts. It also happened the other day when I read something I had written at my heaviest weight.
I'm sorry those people made horrible comments on your 3 month post op video. I get a lot of criticism due to my weight and I know how much it hurts. You are beautiful - before and after surgery - and the intrinsic strength that you've used over the past 2 years is awe inspiring and amazing. You are a better person than those who feel the need to bring us down.
Very well put.... Thanks for the inspiration! I also have PCOS and is one of the many reasons I have decided to have the surgery. I'm still a few months out, but can't wait to have similar success.
your are very encouraging, thanks for continuing to post. Love your honesty. You seem to eat healthy, I need take your lead on that for the long term benefit. people really feel free to say whatever to you huh? I had plenty ppl ask me b4 sx what was I gonna do with my extra skin, I replied that is the least of my worries right now.
Thanks for your videos. This one is especially helpful for me. I'm at the beginning of the WLS chapter - awaiting referral. I appreciate your honesty and your willingness to document your process - even when you get flack. You're providing wonderful support & dispelling those myths of "the easy way out". Grateful!
I just want you to know that I enjoy your videos. What you share is so valuable. I don't know if you participate with the members of Youtube who go the Meet and Greets because you would make a great speaker! Deb
I was a victim at 3 and 7 of molestation and rape i found that food made me happy and not think about what happened to me. I hated my body, and didn't want no one looking at me,what do you say to a child? my family comforted me with food. People don't understand what it takes to deal with the root of the problem. Im healed enough to peal away my layers of protection, and so ignore what people say, they dont know your life i love ya videos and how you break it all down..thank you video angel~
Great video. This information is so important. Congrats on your achievements and improved health! Wishing you a lifetime of success on your journey. Take care ~ Eric
I think you are fantastic and the information that you're willing to share is invaluable. I understand that it's time consuming, but I actually really wish you made more frequent videos because I love hearing your insightful thoughts. Congratulations on all of your successes!
Sweetie, don't let the nay sayers get you down. You are an inspiration from the depths of your being. For those of us who look forward to your updated videos, I want to say Thanks!! I do have a couple of questions tho: How offten do you still weigh yourself? How often do you have to shop for clothes? Thanks again for all you do.
tell me why did you prefer the surgery you did then doing lap band or gastric bypass etc?
copnite12342 3 days ago
Thanks for sharing this... I am actually having my surgery on 2-21-12 (FAT TUESDAY!!!). Although I have not had your struggles yet, I do have people telling me I am taking the 'Easy Way Out'... I really don't think they understand the position that I am in, or my reason for wanting to be in a different place. I am blessed to have a wife and three kids that are my own personal support group. Good luck to you and good luck on your endeavors.
BandedScouter 5 days ago
Your report here is so sensible and heart warming. I just noticed it when looking for something else, but something about it drew me in.
I'm so glad to hear you got your mind and body to the same place and that you used the surgery as a life changing lesson. I fear people doing this because it seems to be offered more and more these days and the mental problems are not addressed.
Good luck with your future. You deserve the best.
SusanWilkinson 1 week ago
hello, I see some good advices here :) also you can check /watch?v=9QpzdK7wdYY
FamilyGuyBlast 2 weeks ago
Unfortunate.
belovedideas 2 weeks ago
@belovedideas nope.
copnite12342 3 days ago
outstanding!
troysweightloss 2 weeks ago
couldn't agree more! I hate when people ask how you lost weight and you mention weight loss surgery along with diet and exercise - and they say, OHHH you had surgery thats why you lost the weight! I have to explain that WLS doesn't drive me to the gym, or cook my food, or put a gallon of water in my stomach. Great analagy re: bowling!!! Really enjoyed your video even tho Im 2 years out too - but yup struggle (i was 250 and now a competitive body builder & personal trainer!)
Over40FitandFabulous 3 weeks ago
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Your videos were so important for my research before I decided to have my DS. Your perspective is so different than what anyone else is offering & you really cover the mental, emotional & psychological aspects extremely well. People don't understand that getting your "head right" is almost the MOST important part of the WLS journey. I know it must hurt to read what the "haters" have to say but they aren't you & can't walk a mile in your shoes. WE know the truth & we have no regrets! You ROCK!
sassyjonz 3 weeks ago in playlist Weight Loss Surgery
Thank you for making this video. I'm considering bariatric surgery and it was good to hear your story and the good, bad and ugly behind weight loss surgery. How much did your surgery cost in total and how did you pay for it?
Roeshamboe05 3 weeks ago
I wonder if you could talk a little more about how you said you change the people you hang out with. how did people handle that? how did YOU handle that?
GraceAnnHawkins 3 weeks ago in playlist Weight Loss Surgery
Hey you look magic as usual, agree with you however I dont make any apoligies for my choices and I self funded my surgery my body my choice, quite worried about gaining weight again OMG doesn,t bare thinking about but yes I am aware that can happen xxx love listening to you SMART COOKIE xxx
chickadee1014 3 weeks ago in playlist Weight Loss Surgery
This is a GREAT video.
meltingmamamelted 3 weeks ago
I had the RNY in July 2011 and I understand fully what you meant by people being nasty and saying mean things about the weight loss not being natural and that I took the easy way out. I have bone issues that make it hard for me to exercize like a regular person even skinny so all that extra weight was litterally crushing my bones and I was becoming severly disabled. This has not been easy. I had a problem with portion control. I also was a bottomless pit. You are inspring!
vanityismyfvtsin 3 weeks ago
You are amazing!
barbiewmn 3 weeks ago
I found your videos both informative and inspiring. You were beautiful then and you're beautiful now. I've considered wls for years now and finally decided to do it. People don't understand that everyone doesn't lose weight the same way. I work out in the gym regularly and NEVER lost more than 15 pounds and then would turn around and regain. I'm 24, I have high cholesterol, and look 35. I'm not doing it just to look great, but to be healthy as well. I thank you for your videos!
ImatPeace2 4 weeks ago
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Thanks, You touched on a lot of important points
and explain it well especially interlinking the "before you" video.
I'm so sorry you got horrid comments on one of your videos ......I hate that .
Thanks for being brave and sharing your story
Best wishes Sally
homemovies1961 1 month ago
This has been flagged as spam show
Thanks, You touched on a lot of important points
and explain it well especially interlinking the "before you" video.
I'm so sorry you got horrid comments on one of your videos ......I hate that .
Thanks for being brave and sharing your story
Best wishes Sally
homemovies1961 1 month ago
Thanks, You touched on a lot of important points
and explain it well especially interlinking the "before you" video.
I'm so sorry you got horrid comments on one of your videos ......I hate that .
Thanks for being brave and sharing your story
Best wishes Sally
homemovies1961 1 month ago
omg doll u look amazing hunnie
elijahsenechal 1 month ago
thank you for posting your videos...i am going to have the sleeve in a month and you hit so many key points. When you are talking im shaking my head up and down and i understand everything you are saying. I know what it's like for food to have a hold on me. I also have PCOS so that's amazing that your symptoms are gone! Again thank you for the inspiring and informative videos.
gigigurli 1 month ago in playlist Uploaded videos
The way I see it, there are always going to be people putting you down..... the same people who judged you for being overweight will judge you for losing it the 'unnatural way'. Haters are going to hate, who cares. Im proud of you,congrats!
-3weeks away from surgery
kaisch15atyahoo 1 month ago
comparing obesity to cancer just wrong
JogBird 1 month ago
Thank you so very much for sharing your story. You are very brave for doing the surgery and then posting videos about your journey. I am going in for RNY on Jan 23. Getting as much information as I can and your video was very helpful as well as encouraging.
Thank you again for sharing.
Lori
669bikrchic 1 month ago
Hello Kellawanda,
Thank you so much for sharing!
I had lapband surgery in 2009 and because I didn't fully understand what to expect I haven't lost as much weight as I had wanted. Now I am back on track exercising 45 to 60 minutes 6 to 7 days a week. But it's almost like starting again.
Also, my daughter is going for her consultation today for the sleeve and that has given me additional motivation to get in gear and to fully commit to the changes not only for myself but for her.
Thank You!
lopezbernadine82 1 month ago
thank you for being brave enough to talk the way you have. you are a special person and an inspiration to keep going when its tough. hugz!
andrewjdonald 1 month ago
this video is so informative.iam so confused on which surgy to have .i dont know if vsg will help me because iam 307lbs.i dont know if i should have gastric or vsg.i strouggle so hard to lose weight on pre op deit i go to the gym just about everyday and i have been on a strict deit and i still cnt seem to lose.you look amazing.
6yakira 2 months ago
Thank you for posting this very informative video. My husband had the same surgery last week and mine is scheduled for 12/27. I'm excited and anxious for my surgery and your videos are inspiring me to go through with it.
laurelitavera 2 months ago
Hi, and thank you, "the hand of God" will take me through this. Gastri Bypass surgery is set for Dec 27 and your inspiration has reassured me that I've made the right decision for my health and my life. Thanks again!
BuppaLove 2 months ago
I just wanted to thank you for your honesty and for taking the time to be open with the rest of us about your journey. I am tentatively scheduled for Feb 1st, 2011 for my VSG, pending insurance approval. Doing my research and finding your videos has been very enlightening and they have reinforced my own convictions that I am doing the right thing for me.
kahlanas 2 months ago
Thank you for your comment about how people state "its the easy way out" It seems only the people who don't have this kind of issue. I am scheduled for surgery in Jan 2012 and I have had this comment thrown at me already. This is a tool but not the solution! When I quit smoking I used the "patch" for a little while and I have been smoking free for 5 yrs (hence the weight gain..lol) I am using the surgery the same way. The tool..Thank you!!
Willow216p 2 months ago in playlist More videos from Kellawanda
Everything you said before having your surgery was EXACTLY what I did. I had my surgery 1 week ago. Your video was very informative and comforting and I think you look and sound fantastic. You are truly an inspiration to those , like me, that are struggling everyday with this addiction. The negative people are the toxins that kept us fat. They can't stand that we can look and feel good too. Remember, misery loves company. Keep up the good work and i hope to be in your shoes one day soon!
piksi1000 2 months ago
Yr vid made me cry !! I love all the stuff you put up and I agree with you 100 percent !! I am 2 months post op (Sleeve) and down 40 lbs and I am working on my emotions .. It is more mental than anything else and everything you said in this vid means alot to me, and is sooo true ... I am working on myself and even before I went under the knife I would see yr vids and they inspired me !! So thank you very much and keep posting !!! XoXo
GooGoo4Gaga187 2 months ago
U look awesome and it is clear that u feel great and r happy with the results u have achieved. Don't let anyone tell u anything different, I recently had the roux-en-y performed 4 months ago and i am now 65lbs down and no one can take my joy and u shouldn't let anyone do it to u. Keep doing great and i would like tips on eating and dieting if u have any...................................THX 4 the inspiration
lexigreg 2 months ago
Thanks for this... 5.5 months and I hit 100 lost. I have 100+ to go. LOVE your honesty here. xoxo
candyb1975 2 months ago
I wouldlove to see your belly and see what it is after the weight loss, soyou say no needfor tummy tuck??
jerachin 2 months ago
Thank you so much for your post! I am 16 weeks in after having VSG. I really appreciate this video. You have done so well! I feel like I just went to VSG Church. Thank you,
snakeybottomranch 3 months ago
Thank you so much for posting.. I enjoyed watching your video.. I'm in the process of being referred to a surgeon.. It's nice to see and hear from people that have gone threw what I will be going threw.. I subscribed and look forward to watching more videos.. Have a great day! :)
KatGFe 3 months ago
Amen!
StephDots 3 months ago
This is an excellent video! Thanks for sharing your thoughts and experience!
TransformingTracy 3 months ago
I really love ur videos and mean people suck. Im getting my surgery in december and ur videos help me stay focused and positive. Please keep sharing and u are an inspiration to people like me who have tried and failed and feel horrible about myself. Thanks for all u do
formyroses 3 months ago
did you get the sleeve? the ladies where i went for info told me that they take out so much of your stomach the hormone (grellin) that is responsible for hunger kind of shuts off and you don't have the cravings and appetite/hunger. did this happen for you?
anahata58 3 months ago
Very inspiring, you have taken responsibility for your health and combined all available treatments. I'm impressed. Although I don not need a gastric band I have taken motivation from what you say about making choices . Thank you
eileen3388 3 months ago
Thanks for sharing your story! You look awesome!
epppg 3 months ago
Thank u for ur very long and informative video. I am getting my VSG done on Feb 3rd, 2012. It will be a quick fix in that it will shrink my stomach down to a small sleeve, and I suspect my high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes will go away... but I know retraining the mind is going to be difficult. I am going to look for ur 3 month video. With 1/2 a million views, ppl are going to be nasty... please try to ignore them tho. Thank u again! ~JEN
WLSVSG2012 3 months ago
Thank you.. I could not have said it better myself
deb030361 3 months ago
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Awesome video...just starting my WLS journey...thanks so much for posting...i am so sorry that you get negative feedback...I guess I might too when I start posting...take care..xxoo
binaakwe2 3 months ago
Awesome video...just starting my WLS journey...thanks so much for posting...i am so sorry that you get negative feedback...I guess I might too when I start posting...take care..xxoo
binaakwe2 3 months ago
Hi I'm D- just wanted to tell you. I'm day #8 on pre-op diet and you have helped me so much. I like watching your vlog because you are articulate, and have a good message everytime. I hope my videos will be as good as yours. Can you tell me did you ever get scared?
trip2thin 3 months ago
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MissJessyeNorman 4 months ago
Thank you, Kellwanda, this is my favorite of ALLLLL your videos because (1) you talk about addressing the people who way EASY WAY OUT, and (2) you are so right on about how easy it is to regain. I am recommitted to staying thin after watching your video!
123gorainy 4 months ago
thank you and may God continue to bless you!
7LadyT 4 months ago
i know that will end and i know that this is my time to make these changes, which i think i AM doing, just not fast enough for my taste. but it is a process right? i have been in therapy for years but the last two have been spent preparing specifically for WLS so i feel like i've gotten to a point emotionally where im working and willing to work...progress not perfection, right? right.
Youjustwatchmechange 4 months ago in playlist More videos from Kellawanda
i am about 9 weeks out from surgery and have found that although i don't eat it exclusively anymore i still eat processed foods...i wondered if you had a guide to the clean eating? i mean, was there a book you used as inspiration or anything? i actually went through a drive thru for the first time today for a chicken burrito from taco bell, i was in a crazy hurry. i am in that stage where eating is just a pain in the butt cuz im not hungry and measuring isn't practical when out and about...
Youjustwatchmechange 4 months ago in playlist More videos from Kellawanda
I have been gaining and losing 50 pounds the 'natural way' for the past 5 years and I don't know what to do about it. I can't seem to control my weight. I'm so frustrated. My weight fluctuates 50 pounds within a 4 to 5 month period, up and down like that.
Silverlenses4 4 months ago
Thank you for the wisdom you shared. It is invaluable to me, Iam getting gbs next month and just seeing the results and life you now enjoy makes me less scared! ty God bless!
XXLbaby 4 months ago
Great points.
locbutyful 4 months ago
Way to go! I think you are doing great and congratulations. :)
pvillelde 4 months ago
goodluck and keep up the great work!! w00t! The best investment in life is yourself....!
TheRealSpoony 4 months ago
Now she is a level 4 Yoga instructor and teaches other Aerobic classes, with no stretch marks of speak of. In most cases doctors want the sale over the truth.not saying your circumstance is different, just saying trying hard can always be harder if finding the correct way to make it easier to achieve.
TheRealSpoony 4 months ago
Not true in all. Intense training can tighten the skin over the right regiment. The face is an example of how your body wants an equilibrium and you lose weight by working out properly. I have been a personal trainer for 11 years and sister had a problem of about 110 lbs over the norm, at 5"0 tall and + worst case scenario Thyroid condition.
TheRealSpoony 4 months ago
ty for posting your vids, very helpful
bennji051982 4 months ago
Hi, I was wondering where you bought your scale? And how much it cost? I would love one that does weight and body fat. Thanks, LaurasThispiration
LaurasThinspiration 4 months ago
You've done so well. I had the VSG in December of 2009 so I'm nearly 2 years post op already. I started at 403 and am currently at 266. I've been tossing around the same few pounds for so long now and haven't been able to lose anything significant in a really long time. I'm pretty frustrated. I really like your videos..think I'm going to go back in your library and look for more motivation. Thanks for sharing.
dottiemay71 4 months ago
You've done a wonderful job with your WLS journey. Thanks for sharing. :-D
CatinIndy 4 months ago
I just want to thank you, I want to get GPS because I can not do the things I want to do, I have kids, I can't do the things with them I want to do, and I want to be healthy, your videos have really helped me, so thank you for all that you have done.
Tammy
MrsCarlet2002 4 months ago
My gosh...YOu sound like me....Having suregry nov 9th..and I'm feeling the crunch!!!!!
lt73me 5 months ago
Thank you SO MUCH for your comments! You are so inspirational to me. I am trying to take a very pragmatic approach to this process. I know it ISN"T the "easy way out" and I know I have a lot to learn. (My surgery date is 10-10-11). I am watching all I can, and I can see that a positive attitude and education and figuring out what got me here in the first place are all keys to my success. I started my own blog today and I just hope I can be as big an inspiration to others as you have been! xo
gastricsleevecarolyn 5 months ago
Your videos are terrific - Thank you! I'm just revisiting the option of WLS for myself and what you talk about feels like you are talking directly to me and saying so much of what I am thinking - So thank you for sharing and I wish you the very best!
jbrandst123 5 months ago
I watch your videos for support. Any tips on pushing thru the last 35 pounds? I need help! My doctor's support group was not helpful for me. Thank you!
CAROLEMOMMY 5 months ago
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THIS VIDEO!!!! I have PCOS too and I am considering the VGS and you story is so inspiring!!!! THANK YOU
JayAlexis30 5 months ago
I have watched all of your videos and you are AMAZING! Please don't let the haters stop you from sharing.
I had the sleeve and a week later my mother died suddenly. I fell apart. I did not follow the "plan"of liquids and I am struggling to get my momentum back and finish the weight loss. I lost 65 pounds so far. You give me strength!!!!
Please keep posting! Having a real perdon vs an ad by a Doctor is so helpful!
CAROLEMOMMY 5 months ago
Really great video.. when I listened to your reasons for getting WLS, they were so similar to mine for considering it. It is so frustrating when it feels like you can excel at everything else in your life except this one thing. I have my initial consultation in a few weeks for VSG and I am also looking at this as a reboot and a clean slate to change my thought and habits and life. Stories like yours encourage me that it's really possible. Congrats on your success! :)
miniminimeee 5 months ago
Yes, it is a tool and Amen to your comments on people saying this is the easy way... it was not easy!!!
ShrinkingWomanDiary 5 months ago
Wow, I can relate so much to everything about your weight loss journey. I went from watching makeupl videos to being excited I found you on here. When I lost 75lbs, I too realized I let all of the wrong ones in my life. Most all of my friendships have fallen apart and i'm new with adjusting to a new and different life. I kind of felt alone in that and I feel so much better seeing that you and i'm sure many others dealt with it too. Congrats on your weight loss, you look amazing!
Linoliscious 5 months ago
i dont mean this in a mean way, but you were a bitch than. you could just tell. i think it was mainly because you were unhappy. it deffinitly came out though. you seem happier now and like you have a better attitude. it seems like you made your self ugly than by your attitude. any way not trying to be a dick. i hope everything works out well. i like you better now. not because the way you look either. sorry i read people well.
99thematrix 5 months ago in playlist More videos from Kellawanda
Your approach to your journey is similar to mine! Trying to learn a new way to live versus eating as few calories as possible to lose as fast as possible. thank you for sharing and for your commitment to a balanced sustainable approach ! Finally someone not talking about 800 calorie days!!! Congratulations!!!
wonderwomanat40 5 months ago
Love your videos!! Thank you for sharing the good, bad & ugly. It's very sad that some people are haters and leave nasty comments, but thank you for making your videos and being strong..you help us TONS!!
juleskar 5 months ago
Thank you, thank you, thank you for your videos! I have watched them all I think, unless there is more after this one.
I am so ready for the surgery. It has taken 25 years for me to get in a place to do it. This diet, that diet....so many...and the gyms...nothing stuck...lose 10 gain 20. Three people I know have had it done and say they are SO glad they did. I know this is my final option. I just turned 62 & have a "bucket list" of thngs I want to do, including finishing nursing. Bless U
cgtravel100 5 months ago
You are one of my favorite wls vloggers and I always learn so much from watching you. It upsets me to think of people leaving hateful comments on your videos. I am so glad you are strong and didn't let that keep you from making videos. Lots of info from this video helped me but at the end you talked about transfer addiction and that is something I see is starting to come out in me with shopping. Need to get control of that. Congratulations on your success and love to see you so happy.
MsBandtastic 6 months ago
if you lose fifty pounds will you still have excess skin?
lizsy775 6 months ago
Thank you so much for all of your videos about your surgery and weighlost! Going to do a sleeve in 5 days and I sat here in front of my computer and saw all of your videos and it really strenghtened my decision about my operation! You have done an exelent job and you are beautiful both on the inside and the outside. Sorry if something is spelled wrong, I am from Sweden... Hug!
nickee68 6 months ago
I had the full on RNY I lost...well it is bouncing around at the moment between 201 to like 215...from originally 330 the day of my surgery...
it isnt easy...I am going to an endo doc soon...I am having issues with my sugar crashing and some PCOS symptoms...so hopefully we can get all those things under wraps...
anyway i just wanted to say you are an inspiration...keep up the good work I envy you...and you helped me put the fork down just a minute ago so know you make a difference
RNYGurl 6 months ago
:) Thank you for the words of wisdom...I have a coworker who had the gastric sleeve...you loose yes with it...but it is far more challenging than say the full on RNY...you did 100% or 90% thats fantastic...
RNYGurl 6 months ago
She knows nothing about me other than what happens at work. She doesn't know what I have tried to lose weight nor does she know what struggles I have faced in my life. My point in telling you this is I know how u feel when it comes to nasty comments about "taking the easy way out" and to just keep your head up and please don't let the comments and negative people get to you. Just tell them to GET LOST!!! No one knows anything about u other than u! congrats & i hope I can be as successful as you!
hydamyster 6 months ago
totally fine with me before I told them and ppl that i work with that I am getting this surgery. Since I told her, she has become very rude to me and its very difficult to work with her and I asked her if it bothered her when I talked about thei surgery because she always looked aggrevated when I talk about it. She said yes it bothers her because she feels like my surgery is pointless because it should be saved for people who try and I have never tried. That is what she said to me...
hydamyster 6 months ago
I am getting the RNY gastric bypass on September 12th. I am so greatful that I got approved for it. I weigh about 430 lbs and I feel like I need this chance to gain control of my life to be able to go in the right directions and you are an inspiring person to watch and see success right in front of my face. In the end of this video, u talked about how u get really awful comments on one of the vids... and I just want to let you know that I understand how that feels. Someone I work with was...
hydamyster 6 months ago
I also have PCOS and just wanted to give you hope about having kids. I was able to get my weight down (not goal weight but in the 150s - I am 5'2") through diet and Metformin and I have 3 children. It can be done. Good luck on that when you so choose and congrats on all your success!
spaleshi 6 months ago
very strong, informative video. Don't let those negative comments get you down, you are doing so much good in a lot of lives by making your journey public.
lapbandchicka 6 months ago
QUESTION!! lol ...were you skeptical about going to Mexico and could you tell me the exact facility or doctor? My mom and fiance are SUPER skeptical. Im so ready to do this. Ive been waiting for years... and I also just wanted to say thank you for your posts. My fiance and I watched this particular one and I teared up.....he was like "is this how you feel too?" Thank you for giving me words to express my feelings better and also that its not the easy way out!. Btw..U look Awesome!! XOXOXO
acarli1 6 months ago
Hello Kellawanda, I'm scheduled for VSG on Sept 6 and I had a few questions. How much do you weigh now? Did you opt to get the Tummy tuck after a year? Did you doctor advise you not to chew gum? What non-food source of protein powder and/or supplement do you suggest i use for my first week post surgery. Thank you so much for posting these especially motivating videos! I love you for that!
nemalue84 6 months ago
@nemalue84: I weigh 153...no tummy tuck yet...I can chew gum...I like GNC wheybolic extreme protein. :)
Kellawanda 6 months ago
Thank you for your brutal honesty~ I love that style of no b.s. and totally putting it "out there"..... very effective for me to see that you have struggled and become successful despite the challenges you faced. Thanks again for this video and I'm subscribing to remind me about the things in my post-surgery life I still need to address emotionally!!
leannjax 6 months ago
I also eat mostly vegetarian and have lost 100% of my excess weight post RNY-(120lbs)- I eat clean- and exercise every day-- and I can say I am happier than I ever knew was possible---but I was fat since early childhood- and depression was my closest companion---until I felt "good enough"-post RNY-- I am now the me I was meant to be. thanks for leading the charge-- you have inspired us all. I am having reconstruction done soon- lots of shrinkles.
cabernetqueen 6 months ago
Very good comment about no one saying to those who choose other medical options thast it's the easy way out. You are looking wonderfully beautiful...Love the hair. :) Good analogy for the bowling, completely understand. Yay for the PCOS woman! My fertility doc has confirmed I have no signs, blood work or ultra sound of PCOS anymore either. I very much identitfied with your REASONS for having WLS, very much me also. Active, eat right, wanting mind to macth body. Great video. :)
kelshaleanne 6 months ago
Thanks so much for being brave enough to continue to tell your story. You are helping somebody!
ABEsWIFE123 6 months ago
I think you did great !!!!!
You were cute before, and now you are HOT !!!
Good luck.....
ARTODOM 7 months ago
Your videos are absolutely the best and most informative that I've come across. Don't take any of them down! People need to see the truth about obesity/wls and it's affects on the whole person, not just the physical appearance! I applaud your success, and you are a huge motivator for me in my own personal wls journey.
I can see such a change in you from that first vid to now! (besides the whiter teeth, lol) you smile bigger, you wear makeup, you're hair looks good, you actually look like you
iMassage817 7 months ago
I felt like you were telling my story. I hope that you don't mind, but I'm going to post a link to this video because I feel that you just speak the truth so eliquently that I hope that your words will help explain to family and friends exactly how I feel about my RNY. I too had PCOS and am now down from 307 at a highest weight to 217 today. 90 pounds down and 67 to go! :-) Thank you.
jwu61281 7 months ago
@jwu61281 Ditto here. Congrats and good luck. I love her videos... always nice to know we're not alone. I'm only 1 week out, so you inspire me too!!
heatherambrosia1 7 months ago
WOW YOu look great Thanks for this vid! A lot of people think this way... I took this surgery because I needed help getting rid of my diabetes.
MzPandaBear26 7 months ago
Congrats on your success sweetie!! great tips great Video Amazing progress you such a smart lady and love watching all your videos.....thank you for all your support and love the bumper thing cause I so have to see in my head to learn so thanks for this...love ya big hugs...love rosemary
gastricRose 7 months ago
Congratulations Kel! You are phenomenal and your success is an inspiration to all of us. Great video with alot of good info not only for newbies but also for us 'oldies' who are still working to get to our goal. Thanks Kel!
neecyd63 7 months ago
Kellawanda, brava! this was an excellent sharing of your life! I am 57 yrs old, and getting ready to see a surgeon for a lap band. I'm scared shitless but your honesty really helps. For a young girl you are very smart. keep up the good work, and by that I mean sharing the message, not just about weight loss, but all the "stuff" that goes along with it!
lildee54 7 months ago
Great video. I wanted you to know You are a terrific motivator. My weight loss is not going so well, but at least I am more active than I was. Set up the pool and try to use it everyotherday as I still have an ulcer on the bottom of my foot. Im also taking thyroid meds as mine was underactive. Been trying to get a handle on bingeing, still have moments, but I have way more raw foods available if I do. Glad to see you making updates for us. You are such a caring person :D
sunshineisfine2 7 months ago
Thanks for posting and please don't delete any of your videos. They are very informative and motivating. You look awesome and I love your attitude. Thanks for reminding us that it is a tool and we have to use it or it will not work. Please keep us posted every once in a while.
newslimme 7 months ago
And forgot to say... HOW AMAZING you really look. What a difference from the earlier videos. PLease make more vlogs soon! hugs x
Butterflyblanco7 7 months ago
wow, what a powerful video. I feel like you sent me a personal hug. There's nothing more wonderful than hearing someone finally stand up and tell the critics they are WRONG! Personally, i only told my family i had surgery &for the very same reason of being judged- told no-one else. Its shocking how unsupportive & malicious people can be when they hear you've had WLS. Without the willpower and change of mindset, nothing can be achieved. Fix the brain before the body. Never a truer word spoken. X
Butterflyblanco7 7 months ago
can i ask you, do you have any excess skin since your weight loss? are you doing anything about it?
arsc311 7 months ago
nice bowling analogy. Will have to use that one. I will say I am 1 year out and YES you have been inspiring to me. You have paved the way for so many of us made us THINK. Thanks again for continuing to make us THINK and share your journey
TheSlimJen 7 months ago
Thank you for your videos! You are amazing!
LDavis4083 7 months ago
Had my surgery 4 months ago ,Talk to me about hair loss! Did you lose your hair?
pwitch62 7 months ago
It's amazing to see the videos from then to now.
thearaban 7 months ago
a very honest account of your experiences, i admire your strenght to succeed...well done you!
diggerdelves1 7 months ago
I agree with everything you said!! You deliver a reality check on wls!! And you are easy on the eye too lol!!
pingman62301 7 months ago
was ove a size 16, I didnt felt at home. The ladies didnt treat me that way, for the first time i was on the other side of the fence, i was the skinny girl in the room. once i told the girls that i had wls then they loosen up to me, just sad
kdavisiv 7 months ago
to me. I started talking for her explaining how it feels to be overweight. So tonight i went to another reunion with some old college friends and every women in the room
kdavisiv 7 months ago
weight and how she didnt get a job because ofher weight. Another girls just said to her,you need to lose weight soon!. I kinda cried because I felt like she was talking
kdavisiv 7 months ago
@bandedwendy and @kellawanda, I am at a size 6 now but jus the other day i was hanging with some old college friend and one of the girls was talking about her
kdavisiv 7 months ago
thanks so much for putting it out there kellawanda you have been so kind and such an inspiration to me. so happy to see you are doing well. my new dr wants me to try a different avenue first so i figured i would give it one last try. she is very supportive and that is new to me so i figured i would try one last time for her. and its only a 3 mo trial if it doesnt work she will give me the go ahead for surgery. =))
until next time-
jennifer
jjea7215 7 months ago
I just want to say thank you, thank you thank you thank you so much for everything you've taught me. Everything I have to say all ends with a heart-felt warm thank you. You have helped this stranger more than you know. I needed you and didnt even know it till I found you. Once again thank you!
ajaweeder 7 months ago
Great videos. I could not agree with you more. Next month I'll also be 2 years post-op from the VSG and like you have lost 100% of my excess weight. I tell everyone it's easy to lose weight when you're not hungry all the time. The VSG changes your relation to food. Continued success!! George
GCBRON 7 months ago
I love love love your videos. I am now three months out and down 51 lbs. Since surgery. You helped me so much. I am learning so much about myself since WLS. At my pre surgery pysch eval. The dotor said creating a support group is the key to sticking with weight loss. You have become part of that support. Keep up good work.
39meagain 7 months ago
(youtube didn`t let me finish)
...go on making your videos because everytime I feel weak, I come back to your channel and watch your strugle...and I feel hope again. Your videos make me regain my will power.
Thank you
Runif 7 months ago
Kelly, it's so great watching another video from you. Happy aniversary from your surgery.
You know what? I really think that you should write a book about your journey. You are a psychologist who now is learning about nutrition...and the most important thing, you know for real how difficult it is to lose weight, some of the reasons that made you stay that big, etc.
If you decide to do it, let me know. I'll be looking forward to buy it.
Kisses and hugs...you are so inspirational, please go on!
Runif 7 months ago
Oh & THANK YOU for the comments about skin issues! I lost over 150lbs the "natural way" and guess what.. I looked wrinkly and had major skin issues that only a PS can fix to look even close to normal, I was only 21.. and I regained almost all of it over the last decade.. So, yes- to those suggesting that losing weight through diet and exercise will prevent the skin issues, or that exercise will magically "firm up" the skin, you don't have any knowledge of what you speak. /rant (peeve of mine)
jostoli 7 months ago 3
@jostoli: Thank you for responding! Now maybe I have some proof next time someone bugs me about this...lol.
Kellawanda 7 months ago
God's hand reaching out to pull you out of a hole.
Exactly right. Before surgery there was never enough.I was scared to death because my eating was so out of control. I was looking for something I couldn't find. I found what I was looking for and it's called VSG. Keep up the good work. Thank you.
quiltsonfirst 7 months ago
Thank you for posting this very real vlog! I especially love the commentary on the pounds "forever" lost. So many people including other WLS patients have this unrealistic idea that this is the magic wand they've always dreamed of.. If a good number of people who have WLS are walking into it with this mindset, you'd have to believe most of society doesn't know better either. Also the analogy of "bumpers" is about the best one ever. I may steal this!
jostoli 7 months ago
Really Proud of you, you are an inspiration! I am going to be starting my weight loss journey too I am currently @ 200lbs, I am thinking to document this journey here on YOUTUBE. Thank you for posting these videos. Keep keeping on!
CieloMylove1147 7 months ago
Thank you this was very helpful, informative and enlightening.
fever4flavor 7 months ago
Im very glad you post your vidoes they are very helpful. I had tryed it all i never was a yoyo dieter i stayed up and down 20 for 15 years till meds gave me a large gain at 382 I was lossing me and my surgery gave me back to me. Im down 135lbs and feel much better i have a about 60to 80 lbs more Id like gone. but for one year 135 from nothing amen.. thank God for this tool to safe me to give me life to live and injoy. keep posting please.
SkinnyOma 7 months ago
Love ur videos, im down 120 # since my gastric bypass 7 months ago and I feel so much better and it is great hearing from people that went through the same thing
chefcintron 7 months ago
You are so incredible and a true inspiration! Your courage and resolve and research and generosity have more impact than you'll ever know. Thank you! Thank you!
bootinsmom 7 months ago
i can say nothing but THANK U,u were my guide all though my ups and downs,i had the surgery 8 months ago only after i saw your videos and understood all about it ,it really helped me to know that there is ppl who strugle just like me and feel the same way as i feel,i was so deppressed when i was over weight and now i'm a happier healthier lighter person bcoz of u,thank u sooo much
sarahshehata1 7 months ago
as always a great balanced video - thanks
skinnybrit2b 7 months ago
i am proud of you that you have kept your weight off. especially since its been 2years not many people have kept there weight off that long. i dont think weight loss surgery is wrong. i think everyones' circumstance is different and its not fair when people are so narrow-minded they dont see that. you are a success story---rejoice!!!
viviandeekay 7 months ago
Great video! Thanks for sharing. I am currently considering wls and this was very helpful.
brbice 7 months ago
@Kellawanda: regrading the comment from negative people. Thats why theyre negative, you are so motivating and inspiratational!. Thank you so much for your vids. Remember for every one negative person there is 10 people like us who love and respect your vids. Thank you so much for doing this!!! I truly believe that God brought me to your page 2 years ago, and i'm happy that i havent stopped watching. Thank you, thank you, thank you. :)
TiffyWilds 7 months ago
I LOVE your videos and when I feel like I need to find some information or feel confused about what I'm doing, I often come and find one of your vids to clarify whatever it is I'm confused about. You've been there, and done it so well, a real success story that I aspire to, and you should be very proud. I appreciate your honesty and frankness on the subject. You look Amazing BTW! Thank you. - Krysten xo
WestOzGirl013 7 months ago
2. I just want to say thank you for your honesty and frankness about your journey. I will be going for the sleeve procedure on Sept. 6/11 and since making the decision to have the procedure I have watched your entire series of videos. You have given me hope that this tool will help me live the life I was meant to live as well. So thank you again from the bottom of my heart.
julietangel187 7 months ago
1. Don't let the negatives out there affect your positives.
julietangel187 7 months ago
Hey dear. I am so happy to see someone who is doing well with the gastric sleeve because all of the ppl i meet at suuport groups are there for revisions, gained most of the weight back and have had thousands of dollars worth of plastic surgery only to have gained it back. im doing well seven months out lost 108lbs. Thanks for sharing the truth.
no2love84 7 months ago
This was a great vid! Thanks!!!!
fattoslim1 7 months ago
I had my VSG May 20, every since that day, I have not been able to keep NOTHING down. I am either vomiting, having diarrhea or in extreme stomach pain. I have been admitted back into the hospital twice. It's been now 8 weeks since my surgery & because I can't keep anything down, I now have a pic-line in my arm & I'm hooked up to a special iv called TPN everyday! I still am not eating or drinking. this has been the hardest thing that has ever happened to me. :-( I'm happy it worked for you
mrsbowlingballout 7 months ago
You are such and inspiration. There are not many people on YouTube who have had the gastric sleeve. Your videos have helped me pre and post op. I can always turn to them when i need some motivation. You are doing great!
LaurasThinspiration 7 months ago
It breaks my heart when I people post nasty comments on someones page. There's a lot of horrible people out there. Just continue being humble and staying true to yourself. You are such an inspiration to so many people. You should be proud! Keep up the great work. Stay blessed :)
SizeIntervention 7 months ago
Excellent vid. I was so amazed to see the "cut back to the old you". do you ever stop when seeing those old pix and clips and cry? I do when I see the old me. You have done a phenomenal job with your transformation. Congrats! Keep the vids coming girl. Onward!
bandedwendy 7 months ago 3
@bandedwendy: It just started hitting me recently...as you saw I got emotional talking about it in the video. Before I think I just put out a strong front and didnt allow myself to feel how down I was over my weight. Now it comes out in little spirts. It also happened the other day when I read something I had written at my heaviest weight.
Kellawanda 7 months ago
Excellent video - thank you for making it!
I'm sorry those people made horrible comments on your 3 month post op video. I get a lot of criticism due to my weight and I know how much it hurts. You are beautiful - before and after surgery - and the intrinsic strength that you've used over the past 2 years is awe inspiring and amazing. You are a better person than those who feel the need to bring us down.
*hugs*
Take care
siva418 7 months ago
Excellent video - thank you for making it!
siva418 7 months ago
great video!!!
bcthird2004 7 months ago
Very well put.... Thanks for the inspiration! I also have PCOS and is one of the many reasons I have decided to have the surgery. I'm still a few months out, but can't wait to have similar success.
MsBariatricButterfly 7 months ago
Love you and your videos! Thanks for having the courage to tell it like it is. You bring a message of hope to me and so many others. Thank you!
TheSkinnySeoul 7 months ago
your are very encouraging, thanks for continuing to post. Love your honesty. You seem to eat healthy, I need take your lead on that for the long term benefit. people really feel free to say whatever to you huh? I had plenty ppl ask me b4 sx what was I gonna do with my extra skin, I replied that is the least of my worries right now.
juandresmom 7 months ago
Very well said ! , Shared it on my FB age and gave Thumbs up !!
phillytomcat 7 months ago
i agree with you a 100% on what you said. And are you going to put up more videos by any chance?
sweetviciousmellons 7 months ago
I love your videos. You've always been a huge inspiration to me! Thanks so much!
curlydramaqueen 7 months ago
Thanks for your videos. This one is especially helpful for me. I'm at the beginning of the WLS chapter - awaiting referral. I appreciate your honesty and your willingness to document your process - even when you get flack. You're providing wonderful support & dispelling those myths of "the easy way out". Grateful!
HealthSeekerNot2Late 7 months ago
I love how honest you are about everything! This is a HUGE Lifetime mission...
Jcasto0684 7 months ago
I just want you to know that I enjoy your videos. What you share is so valuable. I don't know if you participate with the members of Youtube who go the Meet and Greets because you would make a great speaker! Deb
dcrdiva 7 months ago
I was a victim at 3 and 7 of molestation and rape i found that food made me happy and not think about what happened to me. I hated my body, and didn't want no one looking at me,what do you say to a child? my family comforted me with food. People don't understand what it takes to deal with the root of the problem. Im healed enough to peal away my layers of protection, and so ignore what people say, they dont know your life i love ya videos and how you break it all down..thank you video angel~
missmiaa41 7 months ago
Great Video!! =) cindy
CinThruThickNThin 7 months ago
Great video. This information is so important. Congrats on your achievements and improved health! Wishing you a lifetime of success on your journey. Take care ~ Eric
NotSoPlump 7 months ago
I think you are fantastic and the information that you're willing to share is invaluable. I understand that it's time consuming, but I actually really wish you made more frequent videos because I love hearing your insightful thoughts. Congratulations on all of your successes!
ZenLyf 7 months ago
Sweetie, don't let the nay sayers get you down. You are an inspiration from the depths of your being. For those of us who look forward to your updated videos, I want to say Thanks!! I do have a couple of questions tho: How offten do you still weigh yourself? How often do you have to shop for clothes? Thanks again for all you do.
annmo0869 7 months ago