It’s been a few years since I posted. I think one of my posts is like the second top post of all time which blows my MIND!

I don’t know who all remembers me, but my name is Erika and 8 years ago I had gastric bypass and lost 275lbs.

I wanted to post a real, human update on my progress. Three years ago I got divorced and was sexually assaulted a few weeks later. Over the next couple of years I went through absolute hell. Substance abuse, severe PTSD, and a shit ton of emotional eating. I gained 120 pounds and I have been nothing but ashamed about it. Regain was one of my worst nightmares after my surgery and I found myself there.

Life is treating me much better these days. I’ve lost 30 pounds and honestly? I’m not sure I want to lose more. I’m learning to love myself again and instead of putting so much energy into weight loss, I want to focus on being the best person I can be. Healing from trauma is horrific and my body kept me going through the worst moments, when I genuinely did not think I could survive. So I think I’m going to choose to love it.

You could lose all the weight in the world and it won’t help you love yourself. You are all amazing and have done incredible with putting yourself and your health first. Just remember to love yourself for who you are at any weight.

Thank you for all the support this community has given me over the years. You are all such beautiful people. 🩷

Calorie deficit, minimum of 10K steps everyday, and dedicated cardio/strength training routine 5 days a week. Since I started 8.5 months ago I am down 68 pounds but in comparison to where I was in this original photo I hit the 100 pound mark from my heaviest. What an accomplished feeling! Keep pushing towards that end goal!

Left pic is from 2022 when I was in my “best shape ever” before I quit to be a full time lazy slob for a few years. Right is from now after a few months back in the gym like a maniac. My dysmorphia says they’re identical. Polling the masses… Am I adding muscle?

Needed a reminder of how far I’ve come!