I was 30 years old when my husband who was 32 died in an automobile accident. It hit me very quickly that I was a widow having to raise my daughter alone. I began to patch my broken heart with food. My weight continued to go up and I hated to look at myself in the mirror. I was wearing maternity clothes with elastic waistbands on all of my pants. I felt like I was not worthy enough or deserving enough to want a better life.

I had arthritis in both knees and high cholesterol. I could not even walk up the stairs without being out of breath. On February 23, 2007 I felt deserving enough to go for it so I had Lap-Band surgery. My weight was 230 lbs. Having Lap-Band surgery was the best decision I could have made. Here I am a year later celebrating ValentineÕs Day with a wonderful, romantic man IÕve dated for 5 months. We have actually known each other for 22 years. I would have never believed anyone back then if they would have told me I would be at a Mountain Bed & Breakfast having a wonderful time with my Òboyfriend!Ó It is such fun! My life changed, all for the better. I have lost 67 lbs an average of 6 lbs a month. My current weight is 163 lbs and I am 10 lbs away from my ideal BMI and weight.

I feel a lot healthier, years younger, much, much thinner and I am back in touch with my inner beauty. My self-confidence has returned, my love of life and my joy to be here is amazing. My advice is Ògo for itÓ why wait? DonÕt put your life on hold any longer! Do not postpone joy!

MY SINCEREST THANKS TO ALL OF YOU!