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Angie38's Journal
 

4 years and going strong!

Note to self~~~ We did it. As I read back throught my own posts I wish I would have talked to myself a little more. It would be nice to go over what worked well and what didnt. As I approach my 4 year bandiversary I am VERY proud to say that I have kept my weight off! The money that I so desperately worried sick over was the best investment I have ever made. I am glad that I didnt let DH discourage me. I no longer even have to hear about it - lol. Over the course of the last several years I have had two hiccups and am not sure why. I gained about 20lbs and started to freak out and went to see my doctor for a fill, 20lbs may not seem like much to a "normal" person, but Im sure anyone who reads this will agree 20lbs to us is HUGE. I got up to 136 at my highest. My great doctor assured me that everything was fine and went on to say that after time some of our fill does disappear. Not quite the technical terms that he used but you get the point. So I got a fill and still no luck, then went back a month later got another fill and nothing can you beleive it! So one last time/try in three months and the weight slowly started going down. I am not sure if this is my body settling or what but I am glad to be back on track. My goal weight started out as 115 but when I made it my DH did a bunch of moaning and groaning that I was too thin (can you be too thin coming from our journey? I think NOT!!) and so I gained to 120. Now I fluctuate between 120-126. When I go above that I watch and pay attention to what I’m doing. It is usually me because I still love my chips and cookies so I have to make sure I’m eating the right stuff. Today I have eaten: Breakfast: one thin bagel w/cream cheese Morning Snack: Some Chex mix Lunch:Pulled Pork w/Slaw Thanks Band! You have changed my life -- life is good.      
Angie38

Angie38

6
Day Dreamer's Blog
 

Off the Band-wagon?

Too much information might be the problem in my case. I have researched and researched (forums, medical blogs, news, etc) till I have almost talked myself out of any surgery.   I think I am fairly intelligent, and capable of fully understanding that any surgery comes with risk.... but, after reading about port flips, many, many slips, tubing wrapping around intestines, the Band attaching to organs, countless infections and tons of people going for Band to Sleeve revision - and more. Ugh.   I was hoping this was my thing. I have studied it for years. Knowing countless friends to have RNY and Band with wonderful results - only to find out that they secretly had issues. Why didn't they mention it? Why didn't I notice?   I am really disappointed. I feel like it was my duty to do adequate research but now my Band buddies accuse me of digging too deep; they seem to be disgusted with my interest in finding out as much as I can. One even got upset when I showed her a picture of what the stomach looks like when the Band is removed (not gross, just dead-looking white/grey tissue where the Band was, surrounded by healthy pink stomach tissue). She said it upset her.   I am sorry but I have never been big on the whole "Ignorance is Bliss" bull.   So here I sit, wondering if I should proceed with my WLS journey or continue to fight this losing battle on my own ..... and since when is too much information a bad thing?
Day Dreamer

Day Dreamer

8
collins33's Blog
 

2nd Fill

Well I got my 2nd fill yesterday.....4cc and at first I was doing okay but after a couple of hours I was in bed curled up because my stomach was in pain. I wasn't expecting that since my 1st fill went okay. I was lucky that I had some pain pills from my surgery still and that helped me alot. Have anyone ever had that happen to them?????
collins33

collins33

0
Ready for a Big Change
 

BFE!

I moved. I am pretty sure I mentioned that before. I live in BFE now, lol. And our internet service sucks. It takes 15 min to load one page if it even loads at all. We are looking into the new satelite interenet but its kinda pricey. I havent lost anymore weight since I posted last. I kinda got off track. But I am working on getting back on track and have been counting my calories again. School is going okay. I am just ready to be done with it. It still seems so far away. I am trying to keep my mind occupied because if I dont then I start thinking about my grandma. Which I think is a bad thing because I am putting off dealing with the death. I know that it happened but it still doesnt seem real. Its been almost a month now. I have almost called her to talk to her I dont know how many times. *sigh* Its tough but I am moving on like she would want me to. This one will be short today because I have a test in an hour and I need to go review with a friend before the class. Thanks for all of the support from the people who read my blogs.
nurse_b11

nurse_b11

0
Blog 47737
 

too long

well i realizated a few things its been way to long since i came on here i need to come on here more i need support i cant do this alone i am week sometimes i am strong most of the time everybody makes mistakes losing the weight wont make me happy with myself i need to deal with my issues i need to talk to someone who has been through this i need to stoping comparing myself to others i can do this any number lost on the scale is a success i have friends that arnt supporting me and i dont deserve it i still love to dance and i miss doing it it takes time to overcome the habits i have made in the last 23 years if i slip and eat something bad, i need to stop feeling guilty and just deal with it dont let falling off the wagon deter me from getting back on everybody makes mistakes i want to love myself and be proud of what i have done
smilinginside

smilinginside

0
AmyH33's Blog
 

51 down

O yeah baby! Went to my surgeon today for my 9 weeks post op, and I am 11lbs down in a month and 51 down since my highest!!! o and 20 inches, yeah baby! I got a true fill today of 2 ccs, SO now i will really know what it feels like to have a true restriction. Nervous but excited to watch the weight fall off
AmyH33

AmyH33

1
The plot thickened and so did I
 

8 MORE DAYS!

Only a little over a week away!! So ready for this! I went in for my pre-op surgical visit and it seems all is good to go. Got all the things done needed, chest x-ray, ekg, and lab work. Took a two and a half hour class on how to eat after surgery and more info then I could have possibly imagined. It feels good to have such knowledgeable people I know I can ask anything to and tons of resources for this surgery. I am on the tail end of Day 4 of the pre-op diet and so far it really has not been bad. Day 1 was the worst for me because of the horrible headache from the caffeine withdrawals, I forgot about those! But I am all good now! And feel pretty good too! I have been able to get on my elliptical a few times, and then did some major house cleaning the other day so that was a work out in itself. I am shocked at how easy it is to really pack in the protein and not the calories or fat. I had 850 calories today, 150 under goal, and 132 grams of protein!! Which is like over twice I was told I had to make sure I got. So, only real thing I am worried about is that I love, and I mean LOVE, water, but I gulp, chug, inhale, breath it.....no take tiny sips of it all day long. I have never had a problem with water intake, but now am facing a small mouthful every few minutes deal? Yikes. So, I am practicing now, when vomiting is not such a scary thing, rather than after surgery when it is. I told my husband if I have to use coffee stir straws in order to sip less water and protect my new fragile tummy, I will! Oh hey, ONLY 8 DAYS GUYS!!!!
foxgirl74

foxgirl74

4
Blog 98380
 

Stuck. HELP!

Is been 5 months and 3 fills. Today I ate one bit of a cheeseburger ( no bun) and felt that it got a little stuck so I stopped eating and waited for it to pass the way it always does. It hasnt passed. Now, 6 hours later, I cant even keep my own saliva down. I throw up every 10 minutes ( just my saliva). I tried drinking hot water and it came up. I feel a pressure in my chest and its uncomfortable. Im so worried that my band has slipped. Ive thrown up before but that would usually resolve the feeling. This has gone on way too long. Does anyone know how to tell if the band HAS slipped? I plan on calling the doc in the morning but Im really worried and uncomfortable now. Please help if you can.
kelly111

kelly111

9
Chronology of my Journey
 

Where I stand today...

2/14/11: Verified with Saint Luke's Center for Surgical Weight Loss that my insurance would cover their program   2/15/11: Attended St. Luke's Seminar   2/23/11: Attended first pre-op Dr. appointment. Sandy explained that I would need a 1) sleep study, 2) appointment with their nutrionist and exercise specialist to begin a three month supervised diet/exercise program, 3) psych eval, 4) letter of medical clearance from my GP, and 5) copies of notes from any doctor I saw in 2009 and 2010 showing my current weight. I would also need to attend at least one support group meeting. My appointments for the psych eval and diet/exercise specialists were set. I briefly met Dr. Price.   2/24/11: I received a call from the St. Luke's Sleep Lab to schedule my sleep study.   2/27/11: Completed sleep study.   2/28/11: Received call from Kara at UHC. They explained that my policy does not cover Saint Luke's Center for Surgical Weight Loss . In addition, my policy requires a 6 month medically supervised diet.   You might imagine my reaction to this news. I was devestated and furious at St. Luke's for assuring me that my insurance would cover everything when they clearly had NO IDEA.   2/28/11: Reserved a spot in the upcoming seminar (3/7/11) at the only local program my insurance does cover, The Bariatric Center of Kansas City at Shawnee Mission Medical Center. All I can do now is wait to see what my earlier mistakes will cost me and try to move forward despite them.   3/7/11: Went to DO's office for pre-supervised diet/exercise program blood work   3/7/11: Partipated in scheduled meeting via phone with my UHC case manager, Jill. She instructed me to 1) tell the folks at SM that she is my case manager, 2) called her with any questions at (866) 534-7209 x65559, and 3) check in with her in June to let her know my progress           Upcoming appointments:   Monday, 3/7/11, @ 6pm: Attend the seminar at the Bariatric Center of Kansas City at Shawnee Mission Medical Center Thursday, 3/10/11 @ 5pm: First appointment with DO to begin supervised diet/exercise program June: Call Jill, my case manager at UHC to update her on my progress        
Holiday

Holiday

0
Blog 86799
 

Almost 6-months POST :)

Just a quickie – since I realize it’s been a minute. My life is STILL chaotic, but my weightloss is on track, thank GOD. I can’t believe that come March 21, it will be 6 months since my life changing surgery. I am 73# down, and have lost more than half of what I need to make it to *my* goal. (My PCP wants me down to 160# which is fine – but I know once I get to 175, in MY head, I will be a TOTAL rockstar)   I still have my eating issues (like being a perpetual “snacker” – even with healthy stuff), but for the most part, I’m extremely proud of myself. I’ve been spending time between home and The Big Apple, and I must say that the change of scenery has been EXCELLENT for my spirit, in terms of getting up & out & active…thus keeping the pounds coming off.   I will say – I STILL can’t “see” the difference in my weight in terms of what I see in the mirror. *shrug* But the pictures don’t lie, eh?         2 mnths pre-op & at my heaviest EVER: 310#   Halfway there! (-70#)   AFTER (well, “now”, at least)   In any event – all is going well. Will update more in detail when time permits!   BUT MORE IMPORTANTLY - HOW Y'ALL DOIN?!?!?!?         Surgery Date: 9/21/10 Dr. D. Halmi - Potomac Hosp. - Woodbridge, VA http://vanishingvixen.wordpress.com     A
vanishingvixen

vanishingvixen

5
Blog 90135
 

40 Pounds Gone Forever!

42, to be exact. I am so proud to have that weight GONE. Although I have a lot more to lose, I am well on my way. I need to work out more and see the weight drop even farther, quicker :-)
qtney1

qtney1

0
Paul11011's Blog
 

But, I don't want to be full yet.

I've now found myself twice eating dinner and getting that, "Here comes the fullness feeling" and not wanted to be done eating yet. I suppose this is me trying to hang on to my old way of viewing food as enjoyment and satisfaction instead of realizing that it is simply the body's fuel. Luckily I have this wonderful new tool that prevents me from taking in more than I really need.
Paul11011

Paul11011

1
My Life As Liz
 

Gotta start somewhere

I have the hardest time making blog posts. So bear with me. I am undecided about having this surgery. On the one hand, this is a MAJOR surgery. It means cutting away a big part of one of my major organs and altering everything I do. Not only the way I eat and drink, but my activity level, my hobbies (as in getting new ones that aren't eating related), my lifestyle as a whole. On the other hand it means everything will be perfect, right. My dad will finally love me, I'll finally get that promotion I've been wanting... Ha. Kidding. I know those things won't happen just from losing weight. My dad will always be an asshole. I know I can look forward to more energy, more confidence, being able to do my job with less pain, no more size or weight restrictions on the things I want to do. Those things. Being able to fit on rides, for example; the potential for my back and feet not to hurt at work, to be able to play with my nephew who's on the way, or even play with my own kids if I ever have them; to be able to sit on the floor and not be in pain, then to be able to get up after without a surface to help me up and a bit of straining... I think that would be worth it. But the thought of major surgery is still effin (normally I would swear, but I don't know about that on here) scary.   I know losing weight won't make my dad love me, my sister accept my lifestyle (she's religious, I'm not), get me the promotion I'm hoping for (hopefully I'll get it within the next few weeks anyway), magically make me better at my job so I can make the big bucks (gotta take classes and a different workplace for that). Even though I know weight loss won't cause these things to magically happen, I still hope from time to time. I do however, feel that losing weight will open opportunities that are either closed or that I think are closed to me. For example, becoming more confident will allow me to feel able to get another job.   I know this process won't be easy. Drinking 64 oz (I'm good on 32) of water a day, only eating 2 oz of mostly protein per meal. Timing when I can drink, taking vitamins, all this stuff is not easy. Not being able to drink coke ever again. Or those frozen caramel coffee drinks from Panera that I love so much. (I hate Starbucks and am not a coffee drinker except for my bimonthly frozen caramels). Or Thai Iced Tea. OMG, if you haven't had one, they are amazing. Very high in caffeine though. You have been warned.   So the real question is... Can I live without these things? Probably. I can live without the can's of Thai iced tea form the Asian market down the street. The best ones are made an hour away from me anyway at the best Thai place in the bay area; so lack of access helps. Coke? Well, I haven't had a more than a couple sips in at least a week if not longer. The entire month of August 2010 was soda free for me except for 3 Icees which my bf says count as sodas, but I say they don't. Sweet coffee drinks? Yes. I don't like coffee to begin with unless it's in sweet blended high calorie form. I do have a free frozen caramel at Panera from being a card member, so I'll have that, but I've been very good about not going crazy. Slurpees? My Slurpee and Icee consumption has gone down considerably. I don't get the Icees from the corner store anymore because they taste bad to me. Like they're made with tap water (I don't like our tap water), or like they don't clean the nozzles daily like they should. (BTW, this is why soda at some gas station marts doesn't taste good. They're supposed to clean the nozzles daily. BF worked at a gas station for a little while.) Sweet things? I am convinced that the occasional sweet thing won't hurt my weight loss. (I'm fat because I eat too much, not because I eat nothing but sweets. But they don't help things, obviously.) Sobe? Oh I love those. But I also don't have them very often. Maybe 3x a month. More if I'm on a kick, less if I'm not. Milk? I don't care what they say, I'm going to drink milk if I want to drink milk. I don't drink it every day. Soft serve? Most likely. There have been so many times I've wanted it lately but not gotten it and the cravings have been less and less and easier and easier to deal with. I don't want to never eat soft serve again in my life. I just want to get to the point where I can have a little bit, be satisfied, and move on with my life. I feel like I'm jabbering on and on. I have noticed that my tastes have changed a little. I can't finish a whole can of coke anymore. As I said, Icee's taste bad to me now, or at least the ones at the corner store do. The last slurpee I had was a little underwhelming. I haven't mentioned alcohol. I don't drink.   My biggest fear right now, besides not wanting to die from surgery, is that I won't be able to eat anymore. What I mean, is really eat. Eat large portions of food. Eat whatever I want. Being satisfied that I've eaten too much, but it was so good. Isn't that the whole point of having surgery? To not be able to eat crap? YES. But this just seems scary to me. Like, oh no, what will I do now. And that's what I mean by needing to get new hobbies.   Which brings me to exercise. You know, I actually used to like going to the gym. It's like, even though I know things, they don't compute in my brain now. Somewhere between beauty school, my first bf, and my current bf, I had lost like 50 to 70 pounds (IDK my highest weight back then, so this is my best guess based on what pant size I wore). I lost weight because of my DDR obsession, then I lost more weight from being dumped, then I met my current bf and put the weight back on and then some. And so did he.   If you don't know what DDR is, you don't know what you're missing. Wait, you mean being good at DDR doesn't make you cool? Aw *frownie face*. DDR is Dance Dance Revolution. If you still don't know what it is, Google it. Being good at DDR is like this secret fantasy of mine. I feel like being good at DDR is so cool and make me cool. Not in real life, but I will be so cool in my own head. And that makes me happy. I used to be so much better at it than I am now. I could do a couple standard songs. I haven't played in a while, but the last time I did it was like, "I used to be able to do this." The first guy I ever dated introduced me to DDR. For about 2 years after that I became obsessed. There's this website that has DDR machine locations and I would go to places just to play. I think that's why I lost weight. I didn't think of it as exercise. After my first bf (different guy) dumped me I became very anxious. I had a hard time eating, but I still managed to eat crap. But I think even though I was eating badly, I was eating less? Maybe. I can't remember. Anyway, me and my mom started going to the gym regularly. We'd go at night when there was hardly anyone there. I got my routine down to doing 40 minutes or 400 calories burned (according to the display) on the elliptical, whichever came first, but it ended up being about the same. Then I would do weights. Usually arms more than legs. I was up to 50lbs on most of the arm machines. Now I can barely do 20. I want to get back to that. I got down to about 209/215. A size 20 is skinny for me. When bf and I got together I stopped going to the gym, started eating badly, and now 7 years later I'm up about 64lbs. I ended up being a bad influence on him as well b/c he had just lost weight on weight watchers and was drinking diet soda, and I thought diet soda was gross so he switched to regular and ate badly along with me.   I want to get back into going to the gym again. But it's just so hard. Somebody call the wambulance! I know the more I go the better it will get and it will get easier as I lose weight, but right now that isn't connecting in my head. Like right now we're training for Bay to Breakers. We're behind on training due to the rain and general laziness. I walk very slow. I mean 30 minute mile slow. Right now I can't imagine walking faster. Of course this will change if/when the weight comes off, but right now it feels hopeless.   It's hard for me to imagine myself smaller. In the past I didn't feel any different when I lost weight. I just felt like me. My clothes would just magically expand or shrink. So I'm having a hard time seeing myself loosing weight. I mean, so far I've lost about... 7 or 8 lbs, but my clothing doesn't fit any different yet, so it hasn't sunk in that this effort of eating better is working.   A couple nights ago I made tacos (I'm not the cook, he is, and this is one of the few things I make). I fixed 2 for myself and a ramekin of re-fried beans with cheese. I could only eat one taco and half the beans. I did put some effort toward eating more beans and seriously considered trying to eat my other taco but I knew I couldn't. I literally could not have stuffed it down if I wanted to. And then something clicked. This is what you're supposed to do. You eat, you get full, you stop. Like some magical realization. Like, this is how it's going to be. This is how it works.   Since then I've been making an honest effort to follow plan and write down what I eat. I have gone off plan a few times, and over eaten about 3 times, but I feel different about it now. I am having a problem though. When I follow plan I feel empty inside. Like I know I'm full but I still feel empty. I thought it was a physical emptiness, but I wouldn't be surprised if it was an emotional emptiness. And I've been having this weird pain in my chest/throat. I think it may be heartburn. It's like an uncomfortable feeling. Heartburn is the only way I can think to describe it.   Oh, the water. So the plan I'm following calls for 64oz of water/fluid to be drunk per day. This includes crystal light, decaf teas, dunno if non fat milk counts (we drink whole in this house). 64 ounces is just too much for me. I'm good on 32 to maybe 50ish. 2 to 3 water bottles. When I try to drink all 64, and I'm rarely able to drink that much, I feel like I'm peeing all the time. And I'll wake up and have to pee anywhere from 2 to 5 times in the night. So for me personally, 64oz is too much. Plus my sister in law once told me that her doctor told her that she should not be drinking that much because some people don't need that much. I'm not saying that I know more than a doctor does, I'm saying I know certain aspects of my body better because it's me. Besides the fact that my job doesn't allow me to drink that much.   I love what I do. I like where I do it, I have great coworkers, but it's becoming time to move on. As stated in my profile, I am a hair stylist. I have been at my current salon almost 6.5 years. I work in a select service salon. I know I am bordering on becoming stuck there. I want to move on and branch out to full service, or maybe even makeup and/or nails. I know I have more potential, I just haven't harnessed it yet. And part of that is I feel my weight is holding me back. I have 3 herniated disks in my back (not weight caused, but the weight isn't helping), so doing shampoos and bending isn't something I would be able to do on a regular basis. So I'm really hoping that I can lose the weight, gain confidence, and then move on. And in losing weight I hope to gain strength in my back and over all so I will be able to work. I actually found out about the surgery from a former coworker who got it done (she had r&y), lost weight, then moved on. I'd like to be able to do that as well.   I'm almost 28. Ideally I want to be pregnant with our first child by 30. So I kinda feel like if I'm going to do this, I need to do it now and stop dragging my feet. I don't want to be fat and pregnant. I have this fear that if I were to get pregnant now (among a whole slew of other issues) that people wouldn't be able to tell and they'd just think I'm fat. Another fear is that what if I got pregnant and didn't know and couldn't tell b/c I'm fat and then suddenly had a baby. How embarrassing would that be. I'd just die. I know this probably isn't very realistic, but who ever said fears were rational?   I have major daddy issues, which I may or may not get into in another entry. Basically he made my life a living hell growing up. Very emotionally abusive. Needless to say, I don't want to tell him if I get it done. Believe me, I want a relationship with him so badly, I really wish I had a dad, but he's an unmediated bipolar; it's not happening. It makes me so sad. And it makes me mad that I still love him even though I hate him so much. And it hurts so much knowing losing the weight won't make him love me. ;_; I don't feel comfortable telling my sister. She's the good one, the favorite. I love her dearly, but we just don't have an open relationship and I am very afraid of being judged. Plus given the comments she makes about fat people, being fat is probably the worst thing a person can be, to her. I wouldn't be comfortable with my grandma knowing. My dad has fed her lies about me, she's never approved of my weight, telling my parents to do something about it instead of being a grandma. And she doesn't approve of my living situation (unmarried & living together; I think if it bothers her that much she should pay for my wedding). As far as work and clients go, the girls at work would know, and clients don't need to know anything other than I'm following a meal plan, making lifestyle chances, exercising, ect. It's none of their business anyway. My bf supports me whatever I do. Whether I don't lose another pound or I get surgery and lose 100+. At first he was against it, but I think he knows what it means to me, so he's supportive. I told my mom. That was hard. But she was ok. I know she's not a fan of the idea, but she wouldn't give me a straight answer why. My sister in law doesn't want me to die. She's actually the only one who said that I'm fine the way I am. Idk if my brother knows. Idk if my nephew knows, or if he'd have much of an opinion since he's 16. My in-laws: mom is against it because she knows 2 people who had it done, one is gaining the weight back and the other almost died. She feels that I should stay the same or lose weight non surgically. Haven't gotten an opinion from dad yet. (Yes, I do call my bfs parents mom and dad, just not to their faces.) I have one aunt and uncle who I can see being supportive. My cousins I'm iffy about. One of my best friends hasn't said any opinion either way (so I think she'd be supportive either way, we've been friends for over 20 years), and my other best friend seems against it.   I know I need therapy or something when it comes to food and all the feelings I have associated with it and my family, but I don't know where to get it. I can't afford a private therapist, and Kaiser sucks in that department.       Ok. So now that you think I'm crazy.... On to what I'm sure you're probably more interested in:     Highest weight: 281 Kaiser's starting weight for me: 278 Current weight (as of last weigh in): 273 Goal weight: 255 I'm 5'5.5", pear shaped, so if you saw a head shot, you'd probably think I'm much smaller than I am.     Assuming I do get surgery, it will be at Kaiser Richmond. Right now I'm in the process of re-enrolling in the program. I should get a call from Robin in 7 to 10 days from Friday. Not sure if those are business days or not. From there I'll have to take a class or two. Past that I assume the process resumes as it was before with reaching goal, appointments, tests, and then surgery... to simplify it.   Even if I don't get surgery, I feel that this group is the right place for me to be right now as far as my weight loss goes.   Back in 2008 I got like 3lbs from goal then I gained all the weight I lost back plus 3lbs (I think I just wasn't ready). I stopped going, then I decided to go again after talking to a client who had it done. Now I'm down about 5lbs from my starting weight, and 8lbs from my highest (starting over) weight. I need to loose 18 more pounds. My personal goal is to loose 23 more. Once I meet that, I will begin saving for and planning a trip to Disneyland (that will be the weight I was the last time I went so I'll know for sure that I'll be able to fit on the rides).   At first I wanted the LapBand. It still sounds like the best choice for me, but with all my concerns, ultimately, I feel that the sleeve is a better choice.   In group (the support group at Kaiser Richmond) they said that if you set a goal for when you want to have surgery, it helps you get to goal and a lot of people who did this have had their surgery near the date they picked. I would prefer to have it done in the Spring, maybe Summer (with my luck it'd be a 100+ degree summer =/ ). Just not Winter. I know myself; I won't want to get up and walk if it's cold outside. So I think May through September would be good. I don't want to get it done right before the holidays because I just don't see it ending well. Either way, my first holidays post op should be with my in-laws. I think Valentines Day would be a really cool day to have it, but when I really think about it, it's still too cold then. I feel like May is too soon, as in I doubt I'll be at goal and have all the other things taken care of by then, plus Idk if I'll be mentally ready by then. But I don't want to wait till next Spring either. My current goal is to reach my goal weight by summer. So basically that means before September. My work doesn't want me to take December off, but I'm so tempted to... assuming that it worked out that way.   This has been a slow process for me. As far as the meal plan goes, I started cutting back on soda, for example. Then I was loosely following the meal plan. And now I have about 1 meal a day that's plan, and the others are plan-ish, but not dead on. I have to work up to it. I can't just jump right in. And that's ok. Because I want to be sure. I want to be sure I can do this.
My Life as Liz

My Life as Liz

0
Kris' VSG Blog
 

8th Week Surgiversary -- Time is Flying!

Tomorrow will be my 2 month surgiversary. It seems a little unreal that it was only 2 months ago that I was in Mexico having this life-altering procedure! It feels like another lifetime ago. And truthfully it really was another life ... two months ago today was my last day on earth with a full size stomach.   But, as long ago as my surgery now seems, each day I still learn lessons about the capacity of my new sleeve -- it seems it is takng me an extra long time to realize I can't eat half or even a third of what I used to be able to eat at every meal. Case in point: today the hubster and I went out to lunch; he was feeling a little under the weather and when we are feeling unwell our go-to place is to a local Pho (Vietnamese soup) restaurant (Pho Tai). At this restaurant they serve two sizes of Pho -- small (which is actually way bigger than our normal bowls at home) and large (which is a freaking huge tureen-size bowl -- I think it holds about a quart, no lie). Pre-sleeve, both DH and I would each order a small bowl of pho and eat about 2/3-3/4 of it. I keep forgetting how SMALL my new sleeve is. The hub ordered a cha gio (fried spring roll, totally delish) and at my suggestion ordered a large bowl of brisket pho (and we asked for an extra small empty bowl for me so we could share -- why I asked him to order a large bowl I really don't know). I had two small bites of the roll before DH took the rest (he's a greedy bugger, and it KILLS me he has never had a weight problem!) and then the soup came. I decanted into the empty bowl what I thought was a good sleeve size portion of broth, a couple small slices of beef, and a few rice noodles -- somewhere between 1/4 and 1/2 cup altogether. I ate about half of that and was stuffed. DH tried his best to eat the large size bowl but it was far more than he could handle. Next time we are going to share a small bowl. Even with the large size bowl of pho, the whole lunch today was about $12 including tip -- what a bargain! We are saving some serious money now on eating out and groceries now that I have been sleeved.   Tonight for dinner I tried Barilla pasta for the first time since being sleeved. I cooked up a package of Trader Joe's turkey bolognese sauce (love that stuff!) and made about a cup of pasta (WAY too much pasta -- but at least I have leftovers for dinner tomorrow night). I served up a 1/4 cup portion and that was OK. I got really full quickly, but I'm now nearly an hour after dinner and not feeling any major discomfort (I'm still full, but not sick or anything like that). I know some people have a hard time with pasta; I think I am handlng it fine. I worry a bit about the carbs so this won't be a regular part of my diet.   I'm definitely not eating as low carb as many people post sleeve. I do try to eat protein first but almost every meal has some type of carb along with the protein, whether a bite of toasted sandwich thin, a few crackers with tuna, a bite of noodle with meat, etc. I guess I am eating more like a normal person as far as protein-carbs go, but of course just in much smaller portions. I do keep track of my calories and most days I eat around 800 calories -- some days fewer, some days a little more. I do assume I would lose a little more weight each week if I went ultra-low carb, but I figure as long as I am staying within the calorie range my surgeon suggested (which I am), I can have a balance of protein and carbs.   On Friday I had my weekly weigh-in and the scale said I am down another 2 lbs., to 197.4. I gave my mom my old scale (hers went kaput) a few weeks ago, but I knew my old scale tended a couple of lbs. higher than my new scale, so my best guess is I've lost 29 or 30 lbs. since surgery. I'm down about 33 lbs. from my high weight (the day I booked my surgery; December 1, 2010). Before surgery I had hoped to lose 35-40 lbs. within the first two months of surgery, so am not that close to what I thought I would/could lose, but never in my life could I come close to losing so much weight in such a short period of time. I think my body has settled into a routine of losing 2 lbs. a week, and I hope that continues for a long time!   I think I should note some other physical changes that have occurred since surgery. The first major change is I have not had a menstrual cycle in two months. I got my period the day I was released from the hospital after being sleeved (Jan. 10th), and then the next month had some very very light spotting, and then nothing this month. YAY!!! Another reason I love my sleeve! I hope this continues a long time. I loathe my monthly curse so am loving this time w/o it!   Another change -- Since surgery I have developed the beginnings of turkey neck and it is AWFUL. My face is definitely getting smaller but the skin is crepey and horrible on the lower part of my chin and neck. I bought some BIo-Oil last weekend and have been using that in lieu of my regular Olay moisturizer routine, hoping that the oil would smooth my skin more ... but so far it is not to be. I hope my skin catches up soon but I am worried that I will have a wattle the rest of my life. Eeek!!! I am only 43!!!!   And another change -- I am definitely getting gray smudges under my eyes. I never had this pre-sleeve. I now try to cover them with makeup but even I notice the change. People have said several times that I look really tired, even when I haven't felt tired; and I think it's because of the change around my eyes. I hope this is temporary. I have had a very stressful month at work (hopefully the worst is behind me) and just got back from a cross-country business trip (3 hour time change, so I definitely had some jet lag) and had some trouble sleeping on several occasions, so I'm not sure if this is diet-related or stress/work-related.   Today I started cleaning out my closet and drawers of excess clothes I know I'll never wear again (primarily summer clothes -- by summer I know I will definitely be too small to wear size 22 shorts/capris/shirts, yay!). I filled two huge tote bins and took them to the local Goodwill to donate. My closet was stuffed full of clothes -- about half of which I rarely or never wore/wear, so this was a very fun experience. In a few weeks I will take another round of clothes to donate. I should have a nearly empty closet within a month or two! Wow! I know I won't be buying a lot of clothes while I am actively losing weight so I will probably have a nearly empty closet most of this year, until I get down near goal.  
Kris

Kris

3
Vicks917's Blog
 

Days 7 to 11

I got my staples out on Wednesday night it was not a big deal. I only have one incision that's bothering me but that's the one where he took out the stomach. I'm down 20 lbs and feeling very good. A little bored because I'm worried I'm going to hurt my back again. I'm not going to lie being on mush isn't so much fun. I made some blended stew and some chili. A 1/2 a cup and it's like Easter dinner!I'm full after eating one scrambled egg (which is delicious). I think the strangest part is not feeling hungry. I have to remind myself to eat 3 meals to get my protein in. My mind some times is like you're hungry and I'm really not! Eating is strange and drinking all that liquid is a little difficult. I go back to work on Tuesday and I'm really worried. RIght now I get a little tired but I'm excited to get back to my routine. Hope everyone is staying dry on this rainy Sunday.    
Vicks917

Vicks917

0
rachelkork's Blog
 

My Surgery So Far.

I had VSG on Monday Feb 28, 2011. Everything seemed to be going well when I woke up after the surgery but as the hours passed I knew something wasn't right. I was rushed back to the O.R. on March 1, where the doctors drained internal bleeding and huge bloodclots. I have never felt so sick in my entire life. Wednesday was terrible as I had to do leaks tests and could barely keep the dye I had to drink down. Thursday and Friday went great, a little queasy and sore (my back) but other than that I was fine. I went home Saturday morning with two drains in me that will be removed (hopefully) on Tuesday. Everyday I'm doing better and better, and losing some serious weight.
rachelkork

rachelkork

2
New Cindy's Blog
 

Emotional & Mental part of surgery

I read alot. I like to research every angle before I make a decision. The thing that has surprised me the most with surgery is the emotional and mental aspects that I have felt over any of the physical aspects. I feel more moody, not just cranky but easily annoyed or easily ticked off. On some days I feel fine, others I want to cry and then others I want to rip someone's head off. It's a serious roller coaster and probably not all attributed to after effects of the surgery. I have always been a pretty upbeat and optimistic person with very little modd swing issues but now I feel like I'm on a constant PMS ride, sometimes. Anyone else have these?
New Cindy

New Cindy

0
Blog 93073
 

Happy Birthday weight gain

Well, my birthday was 2/28/11 and let me tel ya, Of course I had to have some cake and ice-cream and whatever else. I can say I've gain 6lbs in a week (187). But I'm not going to let that discourage me. I'm back to my gain plan. I couldn't let that day go by without celebrating. I can reframe from cake from my children's and anybody else birthday except my own. That''s the day GOD brought me into this world. So my size 14's are tight but not to worry, I am definately working out it.... GOOD LUCK EVERYONE, I KNOW I CAN USE.
blossoming

blossoming

4
Carol Tea's Blog
 

Vomiting!

So I'm considering the lap band so i made some research about it and found a lot of people talking about them vomiting and stuff, PROBLEM: If i vomit just a little I WILL get a panic attack or anxiety attack then that always leeds to the ER (hospital) and that is not a pretty scene lol, so my question is what are the chances of puking?
Carol Tea

Carol Tea

0
Blog 97014
 

Size 12

OK, size 12 means different things to different people. To me it means "I'm there", "I'm normal". So I am still a good 20 pounds away from what me & my doctor thing I should weigh, size 12 is still unreachable in my mind. Today my hubby & I went to the mall out of boardom and he found some things for me to try on..."What size are you now?" he asked..."12!" I said knowing noooooo way. I got in the dressing room & just for laughs tried on one of the 12's...it fit, they all fit. Holy crap, I have not fit in a 12 for over 15 years. They must have changed the way they size things, right?
Seanamw

Seanamw

6
cgblake's Blog
 

Doctor says not ready for a fill!

I was little disappointed when my doctor told me that I would not be getting my first fill. He said that my acid reflux was still too bad. My heart fell to the floor. I will be 6 weeks post surgery on Monday and I was expecting to get my first fill and continue on my weight loss journey. I have lost 23 pounds and I am very happy for that but I am so wanting the weight to fall off. I guess it will be will power for another 4 weeks. My doctor says that I "MAY" get my first fill on my next visit which is March 30. Please pray that I do. I am already starting to feel a little hungry at times and I do not want to gain any of my weight loss back. Not really patiently waiting, but no choice.
cgblake

cgblake

2
mynewjourney's Blog
 

The Day After

My husband is the absolute best!!!! He is so attentive. I have to be careful not to become a helpless patient LOL. I love him.   Surgery yesterday went as expected. The pain wasn't as bad as my previous 3 c-sections. Today I haven't been very hungry. I read my 7 day post-op diet instructions AGAIN and called my nutritionist because the instructions stated that 8-12 oz of protien shake would be ok (hum..should I make it with water or ff milk??). The nutritionist confirmed this would be ok with milk- if I tolerated it well. Well, one tiny sip and I CANNOT tolerate it at all! My abdomen blew up like a balloon, and needless to say- I was in pain. Oh well, I will stick to CLEAR liquids period and walk,walk,walk.
mynewjourney

mynewjourney

0

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