Big changes...

[bikerz]

This year has been a year of major changes for me - cycling has been the main reason I was able to finally get a handle on my 30 year weight problem (45 pounds lost since January, and at least that many more still to go). But even after all that weight off, my cup size was unchanged - such a bummer - I can't ride in the drops at all, and on any ride longer than 40 miles, I get miserable upper back and shoulder pain. And doing the super-spin intervals on the Spinervals I just about knock myself off the bike I'm not exaggerating! About three months ago I decided to talk to my doctor about breast reduction surgery, and it turns out I was a perfect candidate for the procedure to be covered by insurance. (Thank goodness, because otherwise it probably wouldn't have happened!)

Since I'm signed up for the 2006 ALC ride (585 miles in June) I was worried about losing training time, so my plan was to ride as much as I could before the surgery - I did my first metric century in early November, then a tough local hill ride the next week, and 2 days after that was in a minor car accident that had me off the bike for 2 weeks . Got on the bike for one short outdoor ride and a Spinerval workout, and got slammed with a cold/flu thing that had me off the bike for another 2 weeks . So much for planning!

Anyway, I had the surgery yesterday, and it will be another 4-6 weeks or so before I can ride again, but I can't wait! It's a very strange thing to have such a major change in how I look, but the real thing I am looking forward to is to be able to be more active and to feel less selfconscious and "encumbered". Now that I am an active person (dare we say even a little athletic?) I am so excited about things like playing tennis, soccer, even jogging - all activies I enjoyed as a kid but haven't felt like I could do without bouncing all over creation.

I was hesitant to post because I am a little shy about all this, but I have learned so much and gotten so much encouragement from everyones' posts this last year, on all kinds of topics, that I wanted to share this with you all. I'm wondering if any of you out there have had this procedure, and what your experience of it was, if you care to share it (on the thread or via PM). I've been focussing on the impact it will have on my activity level - I'm just starting now to have a sense of how different I look - it's kind of weird.

So I hope to be out on the roads (or trainer) in late January, and riding, riding, riding! Until then, I'll be doing a lot of walking, and as soon as I can, I'll be doing situps - looking down now I have a excellent view of my previously obscured belly!

[DeniseGoldberg]

Congratulations on your weight loss, your training, and your surgery. It sounds like it's been quite a year for you! I hope that your healing progresses quickly and that you are much happier on your bike. It sounds like you are already pleased with the results, so I can only imagine how delighted you will be when you are healed from the surgery.

--- Denise

[VenusdeVelo]

Congratulations on your new renewed self! There is so much self-esteem, confidence and feel-good vibes from making those kinds of positive changes.

Great job, it's people like you that motivate the rest of us Bikerz!!!

[yellow]

Good to hear, Z. I have a friend that had the same surgery and she is so much happier with everything. No more headaches, backaches, clothes that have to be altered...

I know that you will continue to grow in your athleticism. You have the right attitude. I've been known to pronounce that I get more b****in' every year. Just think of what you have to look forward to!

[CorsairMac]

whew - what a year my friend! If it helps any, you're not the first person I've heard that had that surgery done....probably won't be the last. I knew a woman that had spend untold sums on back drs becuase of chronic back pain caused by an over large bust. She also was a candidate for the surgery and was thrilled when she had it done - and she wasn't athletic. Her back pain is gone and she walks much straighter and taller now, says there isn't anymore "weight" pulling her shoulders down! I know that was probably a tough thing to share here but we're always here for you - always!
Can't wait to hear the "end" results on your next ride!!!

[massbikebabe]

HOO RAH!!

You'll be out there in June a little lighter, a lot happier, and looking just glam!! A tierra for Bikerz also!!


karen

[bikerz]

Thanks everyone! I just got back from a 12-minute walk up and down the street - doctor's orders (he's a cyclist too!) and I can tell it will take time to get back up to speed, but I think I will feel so much better, on and off the bike!

It's amazing how discovering a passion for an activity like cycling can open so many doors for other changes. The change in my self-esteem from this time last year is huge - and it's not just the cycling but also the connection to and support from so many of you out there (I'm probaby rambling - I just took a vicodin - maybe it's time for a nap!)

(And thanks Karen, but "glam" might be a stretch! I'll settle for being able to ride in the drops without knocking myself out!)

[slinkedog]

Hey Z! I'm glad to hear you're up and around after your surgery. I'm really happy for you that you were able to have this done and I hope it really helps you athletically and self-esteem-wise. I'm really proud of you for making so many positive changes in your life! Hooray for you!

[mtbdarby]

BikerZ - thanks for sharing your story. You are an amazing woman for taking such great care of yourself! I can't understand going through what you've been through (I'm at the other end of the "endowment" spectrum), but I know it couldn't have been an easy decision or journey, but it sounds like you are a very strong woman and handling it well and with great attitude. You Go Girl!

[DirtDiva]

Wow! A year of changes ideed!

One of my friends had a breast reduction earlier this year, but I haven't seen her since and the last time I spoke (well, typed - good old YM) with her she wasn't over the weirdness of looking different yet. It would certainly be an adjustment.

May you recover swiftly and be back on your bike (in the drops ) soon.

[Adventure Girl]

Z---

I'm really happy for you. The tone of your message comes through so very clearly. It's inspiring to read about such positive changes in your mind, body and soul!

Listen to your doctor (and your body) about rehab and returning to your schedule. But I have an idea that you might consider. I had some minor breast surgery a few years ago. I was able to ride a recumbent before I could ride any of my own bikes. So I rode a recumbent lifecycle at the gym at a slow, controlled cadence. It wasn't the same as real riding, but it was better than nothing. It might work for you.

Sending you positive vibes for a speedy recovery!

[Pax]

Congrats on the surgery bikerz!! I had mine done almost 5 years ago and it was the best thing I ever did for myself. I had 6 pounds removed (from an E cup to a full B), it was life changing.

I hope you're as happy with yours as I am with mine!

[BikeMomma]

I see big things for you this year, Z......just not the "big things" you used to have! Sorry...you know me...love them puns!

Seriously, from that day I met you over there in Monterey for our awesome ride, you have inspired me somehow. Just one of those special people that tend to exude the spirit of life, you know? So keep it up, girlfriend. By everyone's comments here, I see that I'm not the only one you affect in this awesome way.

I'm so glad that you went ahead and posted this. Although I don't have ANYTHING to worry about in terms of this issue (mine shrank WAY up after the kids were done with 'em! ), this is a common issue amongst alot of women here and I'm sure you've helped by posting your experience.

BikeMomma

[Irulan]

Congrats on the surgery bikerz!! I had mine done almost 5 years ago and it was the best thing I ever did for myself. I had 6 pounds removed (from an E cup to a full B), it was life changing.

I hope you're as happy with yours as I am with mine!

I'm trying to get my head around 6# of excess boobage, that sounds like a lot! I am sure you won't regret it.

[SadieKate]

What more can I say? I'm totally impressed with what you've done and what you will do in the future. Think of how much less to haul up Diablo!