SCushway
My name is Sandi and I live in South Alabama. I had my surgery (RNY) on February 21, 2008. I will never forget that day, because it's the day that changed my life forever. My starting weight was 258 (I am 5' 4") with a BMI of around 43. As of today (Nov 1, 2009), my weight is 163, which means I am down 95 lbs so far. I hope to eventually get down to around 125, which is what I weighed before I gained all this weight.
I am the mother of one son, Michael who will be 25 this year. I have been blessed with one granddaughter, AnnaBelle who is 3yo and such a light in my life. We get to spend quite a lot of time with her and I enjoy and cherish every minute. They grow up so fast we want to enjoy her while she's still little and wants to spend time with us.
I attend school at night in addition to working full-time. I am finishing my Associates Degree in Horticulture in Dec 2008 and starting on my BS in Business soon after. I have actually already started taking classes towards my BS, but haven't transferred to the University of South Alabama yet. I meet with my advisor at USA for the first time on Monday, Nov 3rd.
I have Bipolar Disorder (I), but have been stable on medications for about three years. I have complete faith in my doctors and know that as long as I follow their guidance and take my meds, that I can lead a normal life. I feel that I am a positive testimony that people with Bipolar can be productive, participating members of society. It does not have to be a disability. I live my life to it's fullest and am very content and happy with everything in my life. My husband is very supportive and my lifeline. He is truly my best friend.
Sandi
UPDATE 12/26/2010
Not so good in the weight area. My GI Dr put me on steroids for Crohn's Disease and I gained 30 lbs in less than two months. I got off that after 6 months and have been struggling to lose what I gained. So far, only 5 lbs down and 25 more to go to get back to where I was (around 150-155...a comfortable size 10). Our cruise (5th Annual WLS Celebration) is only 42 days away so I better get busy. I plan to join the YMCA tomorrow and swim two days a week and do ZUMBA classes twice a week. I will also need to continue to monitor what I eat. It's not how much I eat, it's the choices I make. Need to make better choices.
I am still in school. 7 more classes and I will have my BS in Management. Wooo Hooo. My son is 27 now and finally beginning to make better decisions and is heading in the right direction. My granddaughter is 5 now and smart as a whip. 2 months into kindergarten and she is already reading.
I don't check these boards too often. You can probably catch me on Facebook though. If you aren't already a buddy on FB, you can find me under Sandi Watts Cushway.
Until next time....be good and stay safe!
About Me
Before & After
rollover to see after photo
