Today was my 51st birthday.

I weigh 80 pounds less than I did a year ago.

I had gastric bypass surgery on March 6, 2011.

Although not without its challenges, I have had no complications, and I am amazed at how my life has changed.

When my husband and I celebrated our 2nd anniversary in August, we went kayaking, horseback riding, and white-water rafting. A year ago (and for many years before that) those activities would have been impossible for me.

We joined a gym together, and we are active and happy. A friend asked what our plans were for my birthday weekend - I said, "We're going out to do cleanup in a park and waterway." :)

A year ago I couldn't get all the way upstairs without resting on the landing and my heart was enlarged. I used a CPAP machine. I couldn't work in the kitchen for more than 15 minutes without my lower back becoming numb. My blood pressure was just crazy, even with medication.

I got my life back. I still have a lot more to lose, but I know I can do it, and I have the support of a few family and friends that mean everything to me.

I with that for all of you facing similar struggles - no matter how you achieve it.

Ruby