Warning: This post is about a weight loss procedure I went through about 2.5 years ago. It contains no information about making money online.
A lot of people have noticed in the photo gallery there is a new section called I used to be fat . Also I have posted a few places that I had weight loss surgery but I never really talked about it. Many people think I had the surgery that Al Rokr had called the Gastric Bypass. I had a newer more advanced procedure called the Duodenal Switch.
I was 28 years old. 420 some LBS. I had sleep apnea so bad that I would stop breathing in excess of 180+ seconds in different spurts while sleeping. I was in the beginning stages of type 2 diabetes and my kidneys were working so hardcore that I was dumping protein in my urine. Yea I was in BAD SHAPE.
My girlfriend at the time , Dr. Shoemoney, now my wife, did tons of research on the two procedures and also performed Anesthesia in several surgeries of both so she got a lot of great information and background about each. The Duodenal Switch is a little less barbaric but has MUCH less reduction of patient weight regain.
On the day of surgery I weighed 420 lbs. I was really scared. I thought I was going to die. I made a envelope of all my passwords to my websites and accounts and gave a copy to my wife and another my mom. When I woke up from surgery I felt like someone had stabbed me in the stomach with a telephone pole. After 5 days in the hospital I went home and tried to drink these protein shakes. The thing that sucks right after you have surgery is that they want you to get in protein but since they just carved on your stomach its really hard. 2 weeks out from surgery i was eating soft foods like beans (pintos and cheese from taco bell was the win) and other stuff. At the 3rd week I was back to work and feeling more and more normal.
I lost 200 lbs in about about 7 months then it took me another 3 months to loose the remaining 40. I have been holding at 190ish for the last year or so and feel very comfortable at that weight. My surgeon says I have about 30 lbs in loose skin they could wack off but I am not going to have cosmetic surgery. I made a deal with myself that this was strictly for health reasons and I am not going to back out on that now.
I have since counseled many males and females who were thinking about having weight loss surgery. I highly recommend this site for all questions related to the weight loss surgeries.
So whats it like now ?
Well I was 300lbs when I was 14 years old.. I was always a HUGE kid. It is a total change in quality of life. Many people said to me “why don’t you just diet and exercise”. People just do not understand the morbidly obese. One time not to long ago I was on a airplane and when I sat down there was a empty seat in between me and this woman. She turned to me and said, “I hope one of those fat ass people do not sit in between us. They should make those people buy to seats”. It is amazing how ignorant and cruel people can be. But that leads me to my next point… I think being SO OVERWEIGHT for so long really gave me some advantages now in my later years.
- Cruelty – People are always asking me why I never get mad or upset about what people might say about me online. Please.. I was called so many vicious names by so many people and worse you think some critique online is going to make me upset?
- Envy – I never feel envious of other people… You kind of get over that after always being picked last for teams in high school and never having any girls want to be more then a friend.
- Working Hard – I always had to be THAT much better then all my competition for almost anything because of my weight. Society is pretty hardcore on the overweight and I probably had it easy being a male. Overweight females really get it bad from our society. You learn to pull your weight (no pun intended) and then some.
So I think those can be the upsides of being handicapped for years and years by being massively overweight. Not that I would recommend it but looking back I really feel like it helped me see the world in different shoes.
March 19, 2010 at 2:15 am
you must be proud to yourself
February 23, 2010 at 5:30 am
Wow, this story was inspirational. Losing 240 pounds is a LOT and you did it so quick!
February 20, 2010 at 11:56 am
Any kind of adversity that makes you stronger is good. It’s interesting to note that you made a deal with yourself about cosmetic surgery. I think too many people try and overcome adversity for someone else. I think the only way you can truly succeed at anything is when you do something very, very hard, for yourself. The outcome of this is that it usually benefits those close to you.
January 20, 2010 at 1:11 pm
Jeremy
I would guess you are now on a completely different lifestyle path now that you lost the weight.
I write a blog that you might be interested in. I offer health and fitness tips to people over 50. I am 53.
However the advice is great for all ages.
Peter
http://www.fitnessover50.org
January 16, 2010 at 4:57 pm
Thanks for the revelation Jeremy.
Being a fat kid growing up I can empathize with this story.
These days I am trim taught and terrific as my husband says and loving every minute of the new world.
thanks for your thoughts.
January 7, 2010 at 10:10 pm
There is a big difference between the old jeremy and the new one
January 7, 2010 at 12:11 pm
I’ve never had a weight problem but of course I know a few people who do and I think everyone should who does have a problem with weight should read this article.
December 31, 2009 at 9:56 pm
Great story as i understand what your going through. My brother has fought this same battle.
December 31, 2009 at 1:22 pm
What a wonderful story!
December 26, 2009 at 12:11 pm
Thanks for sharing such a wonderful & personal prospective. That’s hard to do when it’s a subject surrounded by so many emotions an memories to sway opinions. Being overweight is difficult but more importantly, you’ve overcome that. The comments like the one by the women on the plane are sad – completely devoid of compassion. God knows it’s been a tough… but it’s been a victorious road for you. Way to go Jeremy! Wishing you a Happy & Healthy New Year.
December 3, 2009 at 1:52 pm
This is very inspirational! Reminds me I have to get my ass back to the gym this weekend! Though I am not that overweight, I have other problems.
This makes me think of the decisions one has to make to change the way things are going. One has to be very brave to make a decision that changes the way of life.
November 17, 2009 at 11:03 am
wow…you look amazing buddy..
you must be proud to yourself…
November 9, 2009 at 1:58 am
I recently read about you on SEOBook and followed that article here and am frankly amazed by your cunning and know how. I am a new entrant to the world of SEO and could care less about your weight, but like you I am a good writer and have enough tech. know how to do good on google organically. But I readily admit I couldn’t lift your ex 400lb carcass off the ground in terms of google and would love to meet with you on the phone or in person to have you consult with our health insurance site. We plan on taking over the world and could use your insights if you so desired. Give me a number and I will pay it!
November 3, 2009 at 12:42 pm
wow…good for you for telling us this, J! I was 404 only 3 years ago, and after my own RNY in Oct of 2006, I now weigh a comfortable 213 and have ‘re-joined’ the human race – iie I’m off the couch and into the game and like you am so so so happy that I did this too! Congrats J…!
Jim
October 22, 2009 at 5:22 pm
I have known about you for a few years (the check of course) but just really started poking around your site after reading some stuff on John Chow’s site about you. I gotta tell you man, I had no idea! Being over-weight is tough and has many challenges but the one and only deciding factor to address it is when your health starts to falter and good for you for taking action! I hope you keep it up, and i myself am in the middle of my own process to drop the dreaded poundage.
Good luck man, you are an inspiration!
-Robert Barr
October 21, 2009 at 3:34 pm
Useful information. Thanks
September 11, 2009 at 5:42 pm
You’re right, people tend to laugh when they see someone with extra weight, but it would be stupid to take that into consideration, to let it bother you so… your attitude is a very good one and so is your actual phisical shape…:d
September 11, 2009 at 9:39 am
Another useful post, thanks
September 9, 2009 at 12:16 pm
Awesome! I never understood why people are so vicious against fat. I have heard toddlers being nasty to their mothers or fathers about being fat. Why? Skinny people are as undisciplined, lazy, overeating, ugly or whatever other traits as they think fat people have. I just don’t get the hate.
Good for you man, for your health, as it is really the only good reason.
September 7, 2009 at 4:28 am
Great!
September 4, 2009 at 1:14 am
loosing weight is a huge deal@! great work
September 2, 2009 at 5:58 am
Impressive change by the way you also look cute when you were fat
August 26, 2009 at 4:04 am
I admire the way you look at things! People are cruel that’s true but you don’t seem to hate them and that’s really cool.
I wish you well!!!
August 21, 2009 at 12:40 am
You my friend are an inspiration. I never would of known this about you if it were not for the most popular post link on the top page.
August 20, 2009 at 11:28 am
Wow… what an inspirational post. I’m a big guy myself so if you can do, so can I. Thanks for the motivation!
August 17, 2009 at 7:55 pm
is that really you shoe????
August 17, 2009 at 9:52 am
I think your story is very valuable information for many people who can put a lot of strenght out of your story. Thanks for sharing. Regards, Jasper
August 16, 2009 at 4:34 pm
very inspirational post ,thanks a lot boss
August 6, 2009 at 2:44 pm
I can’t believe you lost that much weight man. I remember coming here a few days ago and I was looking through some pictures and was amazed how big you used to be compared to how you look on the left hand side of your website.
July 31, 2009 at 2:18 pm
Wow is that really you in that picture ? i really cannot believe it, congratulations mate, Ive been trying to lose my weight for the past year and its really hard, i play soccer indoor soccer and many more, but still my weight doesn’t improve at all. This is really inspiring man. Thanks
July 25, 2009 at 1:43 pm
I think its great what you did for yourself. I think you’ve alos done a great job keeping it off. You look really great.
July 21, 2009 at 3:52 pm
Is tatami procedure also count as save weight lose method?
I heard that was one of the fastest slim technic
August 2, 2009 at 11:54 pm
Tatami? is that kind of slicing the fat layer on your stomach?
July 20, 2009 at 4:56 pm
I had the same surgery 3 months ago I’ve lost about 80 lbs. since then. But its really hard for me i cant hold any food down. Will i ever be able to eat some of the things i like with out throwing up.
July 20, 2009 at 2:51 pm
Wow, Never knew that. It is sad to know how many people out there are just plain ignorant when it comes to others and their feelings. My mother always said to me if you can not say anything nice then don’t say anything at all.
July 15, 2009 at 9:37 am
Wow! You truly are an inspiration and thanks for sharing the lessons you learned from your experience. It’s true people can be so cruel at times. Good on you for standing strong!
July 6, 2009 at 7:04 pm
WOW! All I can say is WOW!
July 6, 2009 at 3:54 pm
WOW! You are a shadow of what you once were! People who call you fat actually haven’t got a clue! Good for you on your battle with the bilge. I know it all too well myuself.
July 6, 2009 at 12:14 am
wow…must say,you looked like bushy…well done to get you back in shape!
July 2, 2009 at 4:39 pm
Indeed very inspiring. Fat loss is always a topic of inspiration. And fat loss requires such stories of inspiration. I know a friend of mine who lost 48 Kgs to come to 62 Kgs from a wopping 110kgs. But the unfortunate part is that I have been trying to reduce my waist to 32inches from 36inches, but have not been successful doing it.
I have a resolution that I will do it this year and I am sure I will.
April 27, 2009 at 6:45 am
Congratulations, mate!!! You must feel really great now.
April 27, 2009 at 2:28 am
Thanks Shoe for sharing this very inspirational post. Although I’m an athletic type, I have many overweight/obese family members. It’s so very cruel to see the things they do go through – and I can only comfort them in their pain.
It’s excellent to see you’ve made such a large change – and that you’re healthier, and whooping the web.
Congradulations.
Christian
March 7, 2009 at 12:58 pm
man you were so fat. Its great to see your current looks. Its a great decision
March 3, 2009 at 8:13 am
Good Post! makes me think of losing weight too.. hmm..
February 20, 2009 at 10:20 pm
Shoe I just want to say you are doing so good man. I never saw this post before. And now that I have, you’re doing …great! Really. Keep it up.
February 2, 2009 at 2:50 am
i still cant believe you were that big, what an achivement, proud of you
July 21, 2009 at 3:58 pm
So do I supermance, looks not health when you got fat
January 22, 2009 at 3:52 pm
I know, i’m super late at this but i just noticed the post. If you even remember me that’d be a miracle. Considering it’s been nearly 10 years since I saw you last. But I have to let you know that i am soo super proud of you, you have no idea. I remember what you used to be like and the stuff you went through even in the short time we were around each other. And I agree with a previous poster… it was all just building you up to be the incredibly successful person you are today. You were always the sweetest person I knew… just needed this little boost to make you that much better. Congrats on all your success and everything going your way… you deserve it!
January 11, 2009 at 2:31 pm
I had no idea Shoe. This is very inspiring for me to read. It really is.
January 4, 2009 at 8:16 pm
Unbelievable change. Very inspirational. I agree with your thoughts on envy, cruelty, and working hard. I bet almost all of those people who made fun of you in the past are now losers wishing they kissed your butt. I know this is an old post, but congrats on you recovery.
November 16, 2008 at 5:33 pm
You were eating Taco Bell weeks after getting weight loss surgery…..?
November 11, 2008 at 8:36 pm
Nice and Inspirational. I know i had to do it the old fashioned way, but some of our metabolisms just don’t support it.
Keep it off!
November 7, 2008 at 10:47 pm
Great blog, first time commenter, random reader -)
November 7, 2008 at 7:55 am
It impossible for me to recognize it is Schoe
November 2, 2008 at 5:09 pm
Great post! That is very inspiring. Aside from the health implications, I think it is sad that people are so critical and rude when it comes to people’s weight.
October 30, 2008 at 6:40 pm
I will be having the DS surgery in June. I’m really scared of the pai and the possibility of permanent loose stools and smelly gas….However, I’m suffering from sleep apnea and diabetes….6 needles daily for many many years…This is my only true chance for hope…I’m 45 yrs old and need a break! Is the weight loss permanent?
October 26, 2008 at 12:44 am
I think your story is very inspirational. Wow, 200 pounds in 7 months! That is phenomenal. I wish you continued success, and I’m glad you didn’t suffer from any of the possible side effects.
Weight loss surgery helps thousands, but sometimes the outcome is not what was expected. You were right for researching so much before making your final decision.
Good luck in all your endeavors.
October 19, 2008 at 6:45 pm
This was really awesome and heart-felt. Was your weight gain glandular or habitual?
I have a friend named Kyle that is very large at 319, but he does Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with my class and beats almost everyone. He was a Greco-Roman wrestler in high school. Now, with his submissions, wrestling, and weight, he is one of our fastest-ranking guys.
Great story. :^)
October 19, 2008 at 6:06 am
wow, that is a huge difference.
October 11, 2008 at 4:55 am
What a big back to life.
October 10, 2008 at 11:24 am
you’re an inspiration to us shoe
October 8, 2008 at 9:51 pm
Wow I had no idea about this until now.
October 8, 2008 at 6:39 am
I had no idea there was an alternative to the gastric bypass! That’s good to know.
September 26, 2008 at 8:41 am
Thanks for sharing. After hearing you speak at Izeafest, I wanted to come seek you out again, because your “back story” touched me. I really appreciate you sharing this…it’s something I’ve been weighing.
September 25, 2008 at 8:51 pm
Hi, I’m 32 and I thought I was the heaviest person ever! Being at 370 lbs. I understood you completely. in fact I cried, thinking that I now knew another person besides myself that had been trough all these uncomfortable moments, and listening to all these ignorant people all the time, pointing and talking about me because of my weight. I’m on a waiting list to do this surgery, i’m not from the u.s.a, but luckily this procedure is covered by our general insurrance here. I was afraid of it and i started surfing the internet looking for info on this topic, and i bumped into you, YOU made a difference in my desicion. I have to do this. For myself, for my 4 yr old son and my family. I already have difficulty doing a lot of things and I sometimes feel like i’m in prison. I’m 5′9 but i can hardly walk, i already use a “high chair” for my toilet and i have a chair in the shower, because standing for 30 minutes in the shower is torture to my back. I just wanted to say that you have my respect, i congratulate you on loosing all that weight and i’ll inform you when i do mine and i’ll let you know how it went. Thank you and God Bless !!!!
September 21, 2008 at 10:43 am
my hero! you are more than an amazing human being. I sure hope you realize the impact you do have in peoples lives. Its more than your money making tips that make you so popular, its that beautiful person inside that reflects through your body and every key stroke!!! Yeah for You!!!!
September 21, 2008 at 1:15 am
Is this comment section closed???
September 21, 2008 at 1:12 am
Very moving. Thanks for sharing with us. That’s one of the many reasons I visited your blog.
September 12, 2008 at 10:12 am
Very good post. Im glad you lost the weight for the sake of your health. Being obese is more difficult than it sounds. People will make fun but they dont know about how hard it is because they arent. Very inspiring post for those overweight.
September 10, 2008 at 8:46 am
I’m only seeing this post now but it shows a lot about you that when you have a problem, you will go to extraordinary means to fix it. What deserves even more respect is that you don’t hide from it but actually post about it. Kudos.
September 6, 2008 at 8:26 pm
I wonder what those people who made fun of you then are thinking now. I bet they are regretting every word.
September 3, 2008 at 6:28 pm
That’s an inspiring story Shoe. Thanks for the honest post!
August 31, 2008 at 8:56 pm
Great story, Shoe. Thanks for sharing. Congratulations on your results.
August 27, 2008 at 10:03 am
wow, thanks for your openness.
what was it like during those 7 months of 200 pounds? how did you feel and how was your sense of appetite. was it like feeling starving hungry?
sounds really hard.
this post reminds me i need to work out.
thanks and take care
bry
August 26, 2008 at 2:21 pm
Hey. I just found you. I am scheduled for 09/18/08!
Pray for me!
September 25, 2008 at 8:55 pm
Ohhh, i’m praying 4 you my friend ! I wish you all the best and get well very soon !!!!
April 14, 2008 at 1:48 am
Wow, thanks for sharing your story! Been on and off diets myself since my late teens, and have gained and lost 100’s of pounds over the past 20 years. The battle of the bulge is a reality for me, and stories like yours serves to really inspire. Am glad that I’m not alone, thanks for reminding me of that! Good luck on your journey to health, keep it up!
March 20, 2008 at 10:00 am
420lbs to less than 200lbs. Duodenal switch must be quite effective.
March 14, 2008 at 10:12 am
Even though the post didn’t have anything to do with money, it was inspiring man. That’s awesome how it ended up working out for you. Stay to your word!
March 9, 2008 at 7:22 pm
Man, you rock’s!!! I’m not that fat, but I will get into shape!!
March 1, 2008 at 1:33 pm
This is a very inspirational story and even more so than your financial successes. I’m sure you’re proud of your financial success, but I’m sure you’re more happy with where you’ve come personally speaking. Not more so because of looks and what other people think, but because of how you now feel. How much more healthy you now feel. It’s something money can never buy.
Congratulations on everything and I wish you continued success!
~Terry
February 28, 2008 at 3:24 pm
What a difference compared to today! But in general if you are overweight and want to loose weight, it’s just a matter if you really want or not. I lost since last year about 15 kg and want to loose a few more KGs and then start with sport again. Not that I was really fat but it was about time to stop gaining. If you want to loose weight, my suggestion stop eating fat, sweet stuff, less regular cola and about 3 liter per day. I will guarantee you that you will loose weight!
February 26, 2008 at 6:12 pm
Interesting stuff.. I never read this post (only just saw the link because it was a popular thread).
I’m sure it hasn’t been easy – even after the Duodendal bypass – so congratulations Sh’u
(I guess that’s the hard work you talk about though)
February 21, 2008 at 5:18 pm
FANTASTIC!
February 20, 2008 at 3:22 pm
This is a great story Shoemoney, I would have never have guessed. Congrats on your success and commitment to a maintaining healthier lifestyle!
February 18, 2008 at 11:24 pm
Wow!…Kudos to you Jeremy.
You are more than you know. Also I would like to recommend a great book called The New Psycho-Cyerbernetics by Maxwell Maltz, M.D. It is a great book for you if you do not own it already. Also wanted to ask if you read any inspirational or motivational books?
Thanks,
Rob West
February 18, 2008 at 7:53 pm
so hard to believe that you were that big because you are so skinny right now. I would’ve never guessed that if i see you as you are right now and didn’t know anything about you.
February 17, 2008 at 10:40 pm
Either you have never been overweight or you are an idiot. Dieting has very low success rate. Probably less than 1% of the people that diet will keep it off.
Anyone can lose weight, I’ve done it many times. It is like smoking. Easier said than done. I would love to get my weight down and I can do it but diabetes makes it even more difficult. Until you have been overweight and tried to lose weight you should not comment like, “do it the old way”. How stupid!
February 16, 2008 at 10:32 pm
Interesting insight
February 16, 2008 at 7:27 am
Brave post. The change is dramatic. Unbelievable really. It’s impressive what science can do these days!
-Dave
February 13, 2008 at 10:20 am
Nice to hear about what you went through. Glad that you are doing so well now. The change is dramatic, especially looking at the photos.
February 5, 2008 at 8:20 am
Yeah, definitely. I think I should forward this post to a few obese people for some inspiration
Actually telling them can be hard sometimes and might look cruel.
February 2, 2008 at 6:02 pm
But at the moment you are in good shape. So, I have only one thing to say. You fighted hard for it an you get it, RESPECT. People wants it, but they are not strong enough to fight for it.
February 2, 2008 at 3:28 pm
As a fellow big man I can totally related to your thoughts on being overweight for so long. I’ve just recently been able to drop some of my weight and am definitely feeling better. Congrats on keeping it off, too.
January 30, 2008 at 6:34 pm
Ultimate respect Shoe, congrats on the surgery and I hope everything is going OK with you
January 27, 2008 at 1:41 am
Wow…Good for you. Not just having the surgery, but taking responsibility of keeping it off!
January 25, 2008 at 4:29 am
why does it always take a condition?
Some people just eat too much of the wrong thing.
Its called being part of a nation fed sh-t and brought up to live off sh-t.
January 14, 2008 at 10:29 am
That is what I thought too. It’s hard to tell.
December 31, 2007 at 9:07 am
Because it isn’t always about “over eating” as most people think. when you are a few lbs overweight, 20/30/50 it’s still hard to be on a strict regiment but when you are 100/200/300lbs over weight, even the smallest things can be an effort. My son fell 20 feet from the top of a shopping mall to the bottom when he was 9 yrs old. It damaged his pituitary gland. We had the option of him being the same height as he was at 9 or “rolling the dice” and letting him get through puberty. We rolled the dice. As a result he is now 17, 6′ 9″ tall, wears a size 17 shoe and weighs 411 lbs. BUT he had scar tissue removed from his pituitary gland and his hormone levels have remained normal. Now he is prepping for the same surgery. Sure he could work for 2/3/4 years and get it off OR he can opt for this procedure and go into college a very tall but healthy man.
December 28, 2007 at 5:21 pm
Interesting… Rags to Riches stories, Good over Evil stories and even winning-the-war-against-fat stories are all inspiring! When my site makes a lot of money, I will have the same procedure… Wish me luck!
December 27, 2007 at 8:58 am
You did a real good job recovering from your weight!
December 26, 2007 at 2:49 pm
I’m still waiting for the program to make us skinny dudes put on some mass… It’s a blessing and a curse when you can eat whatever you want…
December 18, 2007 at 12:51 pm
I know were your coming from Shoe. I myself had WLS I had vertical gastrectomy. I was pushing 400 pounds and after surgery dropped down to a low of 165. I am holding pretty steady about 175 – 180. You can see my story at http://www.fam5.com/before-after-surgery/ . This all started with a heart problem and being worked up for a heart tranplant.
Just another story that might help some of your readers that are thinking about it.
JB
http://www.fam5.com
December 12, 2007 at 9:31 pm
Join us at Iowa Avenue – Weight Management Community. We would love to hear what you have to say about the surgery and everything you went through. Hope to see you there.
December 12, 2007 at 2:33 pm
I’m not sure how I found this exactly – I think digg was involved – but I just wanted to congratulate you and thank you for the post!
November 28, 2007 at 11:30 am
It is good to see that there is hope for people accomplish there personal physical goals and become as successful as you.
November 23, 2007 at 11:22 pm
you should have done it the old fashioned way.
November 22, 2007 at 3:06 pm
“What doesn’t kill us only makes us stronger”
Oh yeah? What if you lose a leg in the thing that doesn’t kill you?
November 21, 2007 at 7:59 pm
Inspirational story. In regard to the loose skin, you may already know this, but if you ever decide to have it removed I believe you can have it donated so surgeons can use it for skin grafts on cancer patients, re-constructive surgeries, etc. That way, the skin would go to a good cause, and it wouldn’t be for totally cosmetic purposes.
November 18, 2007 at 8:31 pm
Is that really you? wow…. BIG SHOE
–blog for dream–
November 15, 2007 at 4:11 am
kudos for being so honest and frank shoe.
I doubt many people would reveal an embarrassing fact about themselves.
November 10, 2007 at 11:33 am
I used to be fat during my teens, but after some intensive exercise, I’ve not been overweight since then. Your post brought back some memories, LOL.
November 10, 2007 at 7:53 am
congratulations!!! i lost about 60 lbs and has maintained my weight for 3 years now. talk about being picked last on teams, i was never picked! i did lose weight by diet and exercise.
November 8, 2007 at 2:33 pm
Have once lost 110 lbs through sheer force of will, then gaining back 50 and now being in the process of trying again to lose weight…I know it’s a struggle to stay at a reasonable weight. I’m glad the surgery worked out for you. I was always afraid of the risks, but in your case it’s paid off amazingly!
November 7, 2007 at 3:28 pm
I took my friend in for a Dr. appt last week (she’s having the roux en y thing done) and asked the nurse at the appointment “Could I just do the diet you prescribe with this plan and lose a bunch of weight or do you have to get the surgery for the diet to work?”
Her response was, “If you could starve yourself, you wouldn’t be here.”
So we’re going to have a competition. My friend will do surgery + diet and I’m going to do diet alone and see how much we can lose. Blog about it? Of course we will! LOL
November 3, 2007 at 3:37 am
great post shoemoney, i used to be an army pti,super fit, when i left i started smoking and put on weight like you wouldnt believe. It wasnt until i met my gorgeous girlfriend that i was inspired to regain that zest for life, behind every good man theres a good woman!
October 30, 2007 at 7:48 pm
Jeremy-Been listening to your podcasts for a while. (1+years) Just found this post. I really admire the way you always put yourself out there’ for everyone. Thanks.
October 29, 2007 at 3:04 pm
You did well Jeremy. What a turn around. Now everything is looking up.
October 27, 2007 at 8:03 am
Times are changing and you have battled your obesity successfully. A very inspirational post that shows how radically we can transform our bodies within a short period of time.
October 26, 2007 at 1:16 am
Wow man
October 24, 2007 at 10:35 am
I wish I can say that in 3 months!
October 21, 2007 at 8:04 pm
Wow, that’s an incredible transformation. Congrats.
Thanks for sharing your story.
(I found your site last week and I’m just starting to get throught the older posts)
October 20, 2007 at 5:28 pm
only reading through your recent blog posts and some photos of you… never know that you used to be so big. i am really impressed… because you have slim down further after the surgery. you are proud of it and you deserve it
October 17, 2007 at 10:54 pm
Hey Shoemoney, Congrats on your weight loss. I know this is kind of an old post, but a friend pointed me to it and it touched me. I’ve recently lost nearly 150 pounds this past 15 months through diet and exercise, so I know how much of a struggle it is. I’m still working on the last few pounds here, but I’m determined to get it off. It’s no longer a diet, its a lifestyle change. However, unlike you I gotta have my fries! I only have a few, but they’re one of my only weaknesses left. I really think its the ketchup…
Again congrats. You’re strong for sharing this with your whole audience like this.
October 17, 2007 at 12:11 pm
Thanks for sharing this with us, its some deep stuff..
October 15, 2007 at 1:19 am
I can feel your depression then. Anyway, you have pushed through, and you are great in your business. I’m long for your methods to push through. I’m not fat but I am suffering serious depression, so serious that it really hampers my work. Sometimes I guess I just need to work at home like you, but I don’t know how to start and get success. I’m really so depressed that I want suicide pretty much.
October 9, 2007 at 10:33 am
Very nice history… Good job!
October 8, 2007 at 10:19 am
Nice job shoester.
Thanks for sharing this story with all of us, Jeremy.
Again…
October 6, 2007 at 8:20 pm
Now that you have a new physical presence, make sure your self image changes, too. I would highly recommend to you Dr. Maxwell Maltz’s timeless technique called Psycho Cybernetics. See http://www.nightingale.com/ Or go to amazon.com and pick up one of the many used books by Dr. Maltz on his technique. I suggest his first, which was published in 1960, called, simply, Psycho Cybernetics. See a helpful summary of the technique at Making Money Online Blog: http://streetlessons.com/470-an-overview-of-psycho-cybernetics.html
By the way, I have no financial or even friendly interest in any of this. I started using the technique in 1965 and have taught it to my two children. Nothing can stop you with this technique. As Dr. Maltz, a plastic surgeon, observed, once the outer scars were eliminated by plastic surgery, many patients still had “inner scars” to their self image. This will heal your self image.
Good luck, my friend.
October 5, 2007 at 7:38 am
Big up respect Mr Shoe. Nuff said.
October 5, 2007 at 7:15 am
I came across this post in the firefox Stumble attachment and I must say after reading it…. I am more and more determined to loose the weight *I* have. Recently (about 8months ago) I started playing with the fact that I might be wheat intolerant… I was right. I’ve been struggling to loose weight and making a VERY hard choice to stick to a weight lose plan. It’s been about a year and I’m glad to say I’ve dropped 18kilo (almost 40pounds). I had toyed with the idea of surgery but I’m so scared of hospitals all together that I will not do it. I rather loose it slow and learn to keep it off. I will how ever in the end do surgery for the skin if I need to. If I take the “long road” so to speak, I want to look as good as I feel. I also believe there are benifits to having the skin removed though because the extra skin can cause some problems such as rashes and very bad infections if not taken care of right. Kudos and good luck in the rest of your life! And BTW I’m female
But EVERY bit encourages people like me!
October 3, 2007 at 12:40 pm
Thanks for sharing this story with all of us, Jeremy.
As others already said, I have a lot of respect for you.
Regards,
Floren Munteanu
October 3, 2007 at 7:36 am
This is long way before me. I am now less than 100 kg, but I feel that quality of my life is worse. I want too also change my habits and loss some weight.
October 2, 2007 at 1:45 am
Sounds really painful, nice to know that everything went well after it..
September 30, 2007 at 6:32 pm
Bah – like he hasn’t already?! Look at those pics with mc hammer lol!
September 28, 2007 at 7:59 pm
Thank you for sharing your story with all of us.
September 28, 2007 at 4:37 am
Thank you for the insight. And I hope you’re as happy now as you were then!
September 26, 2007 at 5:53 am
and butheway, I can see that he’s not fat anymore. controlled diet? scientific or medical procedure?
September 26, 2007 at 5:51 am
anyone know how fat shoe before?
September 25, 2007 at 12:11 am
awesome post. i have been looking for more on your weight for a while. good to see more into you than all this money crap.
September 23, 2007 at 11:42 am
That was a great post man. You look like you are doind 100% better today. That procedure sounded like it had a bit of risk. But I guess to benefits outweight the risks involved.
September 21, 2007 at 2:16 pm
Hey – I know this is an old post, but it’s at the top of your page, so whatever. Thanks for sharing your story. I know that’s not always easy to do. My dad had the gastric bypyass procedure a year ago this past May. I know you had a different procedure, but I know it’s a huge adjustment, too. Hope you’re still doing well with it!
September 18, 2007 at 4:39 pm
congrats and respect I know it is very hard to try to lose weight and try to keep it off def when you are in business and schmooze with clients. Congrats and respect
September 15, 2007 at 7:23 pm
I think it’s really great you’ve put this up in your header. This is the kind of thing people should hear, the truth of the whole situation, not just Lose weight and Feel Great! It’s so true that people don’t understand how the body works, metabolism and heredity. It’s not always simple. You are the picture of success in so many ways. I agree that you become tougher by having to deal with adversity. Great post.
September 15, 2007 at 12:52 pm
Thanks for sharing your story. I hope all those poor fools who called you names see your pic with your adsense check! I think I suggested in a post some time ago that you tell this story. Now there is still one question that remains… the hair, or the lack of it I should say. Why does my hero have no hair?
September 14, 2007 at 3:24 pm
Thank you for sharing! I am a woman, 304 lbs, 45 yrs old, have been overweight/obese since I was 6!… I totally connect about what you said; having to be smarter than others… ignoring criticism… not being envious… I’m thinking about surgery but I’m afraid of pain and also of the fact that the effective techniques are not reversible. Your story encourages me a lot!
September 13, 2007 at 4:08 am
I am sure, you would be looking 100% cuter than you are in photo
September 12, 2007 at 11:08 am
When I first looked at the pic I thought it was PhotoShoped.
September 12, 2007 at 2:37 am
I hope your not gonna take too much advantage of your sexy side. Congrats!
September 11, 2007 at 5:40 pm
Not much can be said but congrats on your courage and persistance!
People are cruel, so you simply ignore those people and move forward with the positive people around you.
Geeks Rule!
September 11, 2007 at 11:44 am
You should write a book! I mean serious! I have similiar problems…
September 11, 2007 at 2:20 am
This is an amazing story, truly inspirational on a human level. I never really commented on your site but been a long time fan. You deserve all your success, I can’t imagine going through a surgery like that. Much respect Shoemoney. May you have continued success.
September 10, 2007 at 1:16 pm
Congrats man! Maybe you can teach us how to loss weight someday!
September 9, 2007 at 12:31 pm
OMG! When I first saw your picture at the front page I never thought you were this huge. I just looked like a cute looking guy even without the money. I’m not trying to make a hit on you, I’m happily married.
My husband lost 40lbs trying to lower his cholesterol, he did it naturally though. I have been struggling with 20lbs and I have been teased when I was younger about being FAT, so I partly know how you felt.
I’m happy that you were able to find someone who really loves you not for what you have now but what you were before you success.
September 9, 2007 at 7:43 am
Great honest post. Well done.
September 8, 2007 at 1:13 am
Now you look very smart , your weight loss program really worked more then your affiliate programs.Over weight is always big problem and as age increases it will trouble us more.
September 6, 2007 at 11:35 pm
Now that is an amazing transformation. Great to see that you are living life by your terms.
V
August 7, 2007 at 8:55 pm
Hey There…
A friend of mine turned me on to your post about your WLS. I had gastric bypass in August of 2004. It was the best thing that I ever could have done in my life. As you can imagine, I have lots of hanging skin also after losing 200 lbs. Although I’m a different person, it’s still difficult after maintaining a steady weight at 190 for over a year to see the “new” me.
Congratulations on the decision that you’ve made to save your life! You look fabulous!
May 11, 2007 at 6:30 pm
No wonder why you don’t care about what people think of you. It is easier to tell someone to lose weight until you try it. I just want to lose 15 lbs and it seems like the hardest thing in the world. It isn’t as easy as people think. I used to work in the gastric bypass clinic and met so many patients and realized the pain and suffering they went through. Although I have never heard of your procedure prior to today I can only imagine what you went through. I am glad that you are a survivor. People need to stop being so mean to others.
May 9, 2007 at 8:58 pm
Congratulation on your amazing weight loss, and thank you very much for sharing your story with the world. I myself came down from 396 to 192 (and dropping), and it always does me good to hear about others recovering from the condition of morbid obesity.
I agree with you that the unique world view of being an obese person has tremendous positive effects that are often forgotten or overlooked. Thanks for refreshing my mind on that point.
You rock!
December 15, 2006 at 2:39 pm
I just read this b/c on your Andy Beal post today. I had no idea. I have to say I had a huge amount of respect for your accomplishments as an Internet marketer but that now pales in comparison to my respect for you as a person.
It’s odd when you listen to someone on radio, love Net Income, and you sort of get a feel for a person in your mind like you almost know them personally. I pictured you as kind of a happy go lucky guy who kind of stumbled into a situation where once you arrived your innate intelligence lead you to success. I’ve vastly underestimated the trials you endured to get where you are now.
I have to say thanks again for spreading your hard earned Internet knowledge but even more so thank you for showing such personal conviction and courage when you could easily hide behind a facade. I wish you and your family all the best.
September 28, 2006 at 2:34 pm
Hey Shoe…I am so enjoying all of this. We all knew you were a great kid. It just took you time to discover it. As far as a book deal goes…I bet I know some English teachers who would help you write it!
Maggie
June 17, 2006 at 3:17 pm
….and all this time I thought you were a skinny punk Shoemoney!
You have to quit fooling me man!
May 25, 2006 at 2:46 am
“Many people said to me “why don’t you just diet and exerciseâ€?. People just do not understand the morbidly obese.”
Honestly, I don’t understand the morbidly obese, because I would have said the same thing. You didn’t expand on why you couldn’t diet/excercise, so I’m still sitting here scratching my head wondering why someone would choose to undergo surgery instead.
May 19, 2006 at 7:41 am
I am amazed and inspired. I have put on a lot of weight since I started spending more and more time on computers and after the hurricanes put a stop to my regular aerobics classes. Age isn’t helping either, I’m in the mid-life spread dept.
But I want to thank you for your photos and story. You are giving me a kick-start to getting my extra weight off.
May 17, 2006 at 11:13 am
Shoe, when you told me this story in person, I could hardly believe it, but seeing the photos makes it all the more real. Huge kudos to you for overcoming something this huge (literally). Keep on kicking ass, best wishes. – Alex
May 17, 2006 at 7:42 am
Hey pepperjam friends =) Thanks for your comments.
May 16, 2006 at 4:38 pm
In life you meet few people who inspire, while remaining selfless and open the way that you are. Your actions are a sign of genuine kindess and immense leadership potential. Your story could be told to inspire millions. I’m honored to have met you personally and I look forward to hearing you speak at SES San Jose. Get this guy a Captain and Coke!
May 16, 2006 at 2:57 pm
ShoeMoney,
That’s an amazing story. Besides being thinner, you are also standing mighty tall in the eyes of your readers:-)
May 16, 2006 at 9:25 am
Shoemoney,
That is an outstanding post. Very human and very honest.
May 15, 2006 at 11:08 pm
Well shit, blow me down with a feather !
It’s quite an accomplisment – I’m a tad overweight myself, and in fact would never discuss it in a public forum. I grew up the veritable rake, and it’s (albeit unwanted) new to me.
You continue to surprise me Shoe, and it’s all good.
Cheers,
JL
May 15, 2006 at 8:53 pm
That is an amazing accomplishment. I just topped 240 myself, and I am simply too lazy to get my big butt on a treadmill (I do have one). I couldn’t imagine the frustration and helplessness you must have felt.
Seriously Shoe, think about removing the loose skin. I am sure there is some health-related reason reason you could come up with
Just think about all of that extra work your heart does pumping blood. There’s gotta be at least an extra pint there!
May 15, 2006 at 6:50 pm
Congrats man!
May 15, 2006 at 1:27 pm
David – It’s unbelieveable how ignorant so – called “professionals” can be while self-promoting their views and I wish they would take the time to get their facts straight before they consider “helping others” with their weight loss advice.
To say that all a person needs to do is make a lifestyle change clearly indicates to me that you have no idea what this surgery entails.
Having this surgery is making a huge lifestyle change! In order for it to be successful, you must be dedicated to exercising, eating healthy and taking vitamin supplements – FOR LIFE!!!
Cop-out I don’t think so – it’s COMMITMENT!
May 15, 2006 at 1:09 pm
This is an amazing story shoe..also i dont see the harm in removing the excess skin?
May 15, 2006 at 12:02 pm
nice job shoester. mad props for your success and transformation
May 15, 2006 at 11:45 am
Very impressive Shoe, you’re an inspiration. I also think that you should get the 30 lbs. of excess skin removed because it’s not 100% cosmetic, the extra weight is still creating an unnecessary strain on your body. I can understand the sentiment that you don’t want cosmetic surgery but removing the skin isn’t something done entirely out of vanity, there are health reasons for removing it. Good luck.
May 15, 2006 at 9:32 am
That was really brave, my hubby has been looking into this procedure, thanks for posting. I will pass it on to him.
May 15, 2006 at 9:31 am
Its very strange because since having the surgery I have altered my eating habits totally… I NEVER eat french fries or crap like that .. just the thought of them makes me sick. Is it the surgery or the fact I want to eat better now ? Not sure but its defiantly changed my eating habits
May 15, 2006 at 9:29 am
The extra skin is pretty spread out. A lot of it just lays flat.
May 15, 2006 at 9:28 am
I have been approached a few times about different topics but I think its obvious I am no author =)
May 15, 2006 at 9:27 am
Thanks Brian! much <3 for the whole botw crew.
May 15, 2006 at 6:43 am
I’ve been following your posts for a long time on DP, shoemoney, but wow mate!
It’s fantastic that you pulled through that…
Yeah, they do say exercise just to maintain your weight. To actually lose weight naturally you’ve gotta limit your intake.
But it sure does look like you’ve maintained youself…
May 15, 2006 at 4:13 am
You definetly got my respect man! I also used to weigh about 30-35 pounds to much, which was about 5 years ago – now I´m fit and healthy and it feels great. Although it´s hard work to stay like that, I think it´s extremly important for people like us working 12-14 hours a day in front of a computer!
May 15, 2006 at 4:08 am
It’s pretty amazing to see that some people still just don’t get it.
May 15, 2006 at 12:18 am
Good to hear your story, it kind of makes this whole internet money making thing seem not very important.
Do you think that if you had the opportunity to have the procedure done in your teens you would have taken it? I’ve read a lot about different types of weight loss surgery (not that I need it, in fact I’m skinny and I can’t gain weight when I try!); it appears to me that the only legitimate controversy is people having it done before 18.
May 14, 2006 at 6:49 pm
Wow, just when I thought you’d conquered so much already. Way to go man.
May 14, 2006 at 6:44 pm
Congrats on being healthier. I’d never guess from seeing pictures of you that you have 30 pounds of skin that could be removed. Is it mostly concentrated in one area (stomach?) or fairly spread out?
At least now when someone points in your direction and mentions fat, they’re probably just talking about your wallet.
May 14, 2006 at 5:24 pm
By the way, have you ever thought about writing a book about losing weight, the road to success and making money on the internet?
All these topics are pretty popular, who knows how well such a book would sell
May 14, 2006 at 5:18 pm
To be honest I’m a bit overweight too. I’m 19, it’s not as bad as you were, but about 45lbs too much. I think I need to do a bit more sport but I’m busy the whole day keeping my internet business running
May 14, 2006 at 5:10 pm
Inspiring post man. Congrats.
May 14, 2006 at 4:53 pm
Good for you!
May 14, 2006 at 3:04 pm
That is truly amazing Jeremy. Many congratulations on your health and success.
May 14, 2006 at 1:24 pm
Even if you sometimes somewhat arrogant (arrogant is this the same meaning as in german? duh, i dont know ;o)
But i think you are a honest person and you are one of those that have the right to BE somewhat arrogant from time to time because you are one of those that have worked for this right a lot in their life!! Just like me
May 14, 2006 at 12:57 pm
so did you have a thiroid condition or something that was causing the obesity other than a very very slow metabolisim? I am asking because if you had the surgery without a medical condition causing the weight gain I think you had causmetic surgery and should go ahead and get the 30lbs of skin cut off. I have helped many many people who were 350 lbs plus get below 200 lbs with no surgery. They had to change there lifestyle. getting your stomach stapled but then going to taco hell is crap! The surgery should only be after you have spent 18 months with a nutritionist and specially trained exercise specialist. Then, if the weight is not coming off…. I see to many people usineg the surgery as a cop out on actually getting healthy.
October 24, 2008 at 1:01 pm
I feel that you are wrong in saying tht the surgery is a cop out. First of all when you are severely overweight with health complications its sometimes hard to be involved in an exercise program, not only that some people have medical conditions that may not go away with just losing weight and exercising for instance, type 2 diabetes is gone for most people after surgery. This is not based on losing the weight because some people go home form the surgery off of their medications this is without losing one pound. Another thing is that the surgery can be sabotaged the person having the surgery must be motivated to comply so there is work involved for the patient. The doctor does surgey on your abdomen not your mind, you must still resist unhealty urges. Also no one gets overweight or unhealthy eating moderately or controlling their portions so eating out is not off limits to people who have weight loss surgery.We are human just like thin people and there is no reason why we like those who are thin and healthy although they are eating fast food can’t indulge from time to time.
October 24, 2008 at 1:03 pm
I also wanted to say congratulations on your weight loss I am proud that you were up for the challenge and succeeded.I pray that you will continue in good health grace and peace be multiplied unto you
May 14, 2006 at 12:32 pm
Big up respect Mr Shoe. Nuff said.
May 14, 2006 at 12:11 pm
Wow, dude. Before I read this post, I had much respect for you becuase of you business skills and your willingness to share your experiences. Now, I have respect for you as a human, becuase of your discipline, philospohy and again, your willingness to share. Great post.
May 14, 2006 at 11:18 am
Watching you suffer during those years makes me so proud of what you have become inside and out. Empathy isn’t inborn- it has to be cultivated.
May 14, 2006 at 10:10 am
Cool post, Shoe.
May 14, 2006 at 10:08 am
Kickin ass and making money….thanks for giving us a look into your personal life, nice to see the guy behind the logo
May 14, 2006 at 7:22 am
Brought a tear to my eye, i can vaguely relate, as a young person overweight.
May 14, 2006 at 6:44 am
what doesn’t kill us, only makes us stronger.
thanks for the post – interesting to get a peek of what makes the Shoe tick…
May 14, 2006 at 5:26 am
Wow. Pretty poignant post Shoe. I have a tremendous amount of respect for you in so many ways – I can’t imagine a more difficult challenge to face. Kudos for having the courage to see the need for a change, the action to actually make the lifestyle change, and then the wisdom to understand your journey and to help spread the word about your experience to help other’s make similar positive changes in their life habits. Shoemoney – YOU ROCK!
October 19, 2008 at 6:07 am
Let me say, It is hard to recognize it is Schoe.
November 12, 2008 at 9:15 am
Ya your the man. No wonder your in the shoes your in right now. It’s like the obesity was testing you to become a more stronger person in the future. No wonder your pounding the dough in.
You better be hitting the gym and eating correctly now….
February 17, 2009 at 11:28 am
wow I cant believe I’ve never read this post! Great work and congrats for keeping the weight off.