Atsirc

I had a flipped port. For me, the port surgery was rough. I think this is because every body told me that it was no big deal so I wasn't prepared for all of the soreness and bloating. My port had moved quite a bit so the surgeon had to dig. I had my revision surgery in August and since then it's been smooth sailing! I'm glad it's over and I had the second surgery! Good luck- as far as complications go, this one is an easy one to fix!

I've found when I start to forget why I am on this journey I need to go back to liquids. The liquid diet has taught me a lot about why I eat and what triggers the desire to eat. I've found a lot of strength in denying myself things that are bad for me. When I make myself go back to liquids I do allow myself fruits and vegetables throughout the day if I feel the need to eat is overwhelming. Everybody's journey is different but I've found that once I feel strong and empowered with my weight loss my actions follow. Each day I wake up and tell myself "If I fail to plan for today then I am planning to fail." It's become my mantra. Every day is a fight but you have to just reminding yourself of the reasons it's worth fighting. If you lose your way one day, start back the very next day. In the end it's going to be worth all of the mental and physical energy.

I cheated once REALLY BAD on my preop diet. Don't stress yourself out about it. You messed up- move on... it won't effect your surgery.

I think if I could go back and tell myself one thing it would be that it takes time to find what works for me. After surgery I expected for weight to fall off just because I was eating less but the reality is, is that you have to find what works for you and your band. I wish I understood what a process weight loss really is. Also, after sugary I got really wrapped up in what every other person lost after their surgery and I was comparing my weight loss to other people's. Good luck with your surgery... it's the beginning of a whole new life!

Knowing what you are doing wrong is half the problem! I think you should go online and find a bunch of lap band friendly recipes that sound good to you, make sure they are easy! Every week I make myself a menu that I have no choice but to stick to. An example of what I do is: Breakfast: Egg casserole (so easy! Just scramble some eggs, with a little milk, cheese, Protein, veggies, and some spices and bake @ 350 until golden brown) Lunch: Mexican chicken (Chicken breast, taco seasoning, red and yellow peppers, onions- all in the crock pot for a couple of hours- YUM!) Dinner: Turkey burger with cheese and a veggie. I make sure to portion everything out and always know how many calories/ protein I am getting. It can be simple as long as you prepare yourself. Every day I carry lap band friendly Snacks with me as well as a little Protein powder just in case I get put in a position where I need to eat and there is nothing good for me. Water is super important to me too and I make sure to get at least 64 oz but I aim for about 100 oz. Perhaps to get back on track you should set yourself a goal and plan something special if you meet the goal. It can be really motivating to Celebrate your victories! You can do this! Just remember that you are doing this for you and a better life! Good luck!

I live in South Loop, if you are ever over this way!

I'm on board! This is a great idea!

I just had to follow my pre-op diet, no laxative.

I had to do a 2 week clear liquid diet (Protein w/ less than 5 grams per serving, water, broth, tea, coffee... NOTHING else). So this was horrible while I was one it BUT I have learned A LOT from having to do it. It's crazy to do it if you don't have to but I really recommend you push yourself! It really does teach you about yourself when you are out of your comfort zone. Good luck!