tuturunner

I remember when I was pre-op and going to different surgical seminars, there was one in particular that stood out for me in a bad way. For the first time I felt like I was in a crowd that had little knowledge about the surgeries let alone what would be required. Granted I'm a research nut so that could be just me. I didn't learn a thing from that seminar I didn't already know BUT the big issue that bothered me the most was the questions from the audience about when they were going to be able to eat their favorite foods (and you can guess it's wasn't about salads). That was the majority of the questions! The doctor I chose was a bit harsher when it came to guidelines and that works for me. When he talked about the two week pre-op diet (which is quiet liberal than most other doctors) someone asked "what if I can't do that?" His response was "well then you aren't ready for this surgery, come back to me when you are!" The two week pre-op is a breeze compared to following the rules afterwards. I had to be mentally ready to say I was willing to stick to the plan no matter what. Because after the surgery, it is even more critical to be able to follow the rules. I know not everyone can make that mental switch 100% but for me, it's what works. I know if I started slipping, it would be a slippery slope and I would need to seek professional help.
The other comment my surgeon made that also stuck with me is that he doesn't care about my first year post op weight loss...because that's easy. He cares about the following years because that's when it shows that I'm determined to keep it off. So this first year I HAVE to make the necessary changes to sustain this for life. At least for me, this is the path that I am choosing.

I remember when I was pre-op and going to different surgical seminars, there was one in particular that stood out for me in a bad way. For the first time I felt like I was in a crowd that had little knowledge about the surgeries let alone what would be required. Granted I'm a research nut so that could be just me. I didn't learn a thing from that seminar I didn't already know BUT the big issue that bothered me the most was the questions from the audience about when they were going to be able to eat their favorite foods (and you can guess it's wasn't about salads). That was the majority of the questions! The doctor I chose was a bit harsher when it came to guidelines and that works for me. When he talked about the two week pre-op diet (which is quiet liberal than most other doctors) someone asked "what if I can't do that?" His response was "well then you aren't ready for this surgery, come back to me when you are!" The two week pre-op is a breeze compared to following the rules afterwards. I had to be mentally ready to say I was willing to stick to the plan no matter what. Because after the surgery, it is even more critical to be able to follow the rules. I know not everyone can make that mental switch 100% but for me, it's what works. I know if I started slipping, it would be a slippery slope and I would need to seek professional help.
The other comment my surgeon made that also stuck with me is that he doesn't care about my first year post op weight loss...because that's easy. He cares about the following years because that's when it shows that I'm determined to keep it off. So this first year I HAVE to make the necessary changes to sustain this for life. At least for me, this is the path that I am choosing.

I know this pain doesn't seem normal to most but my doctor warned me about it before I left the hospital. Most never experience it but a small few will. Some feel it right away and others may experience it a few weeks out after over doing it. I still freaked out all weekend at home about it and spoke to the doctor daily. After doing research online I realized I wasn't alone.
Remember you are not alone...and it will get better. Each day I see small improvements. Hope you will to!

I remember when I was pre-op and going to different surgical seminars, there was one in particular that stood out for me in a bad way. For the first time I felt like I was in a crowd that had little knowledge about the surgeries let alone what would be required. Granted I'm a research nut so that could be just me. I didn't learn a thing from that seminar I didn't already know BUT the big issue that bothered me the most was the questions from the audience about when they were going to be able to eat their favorite foods (and you can guess it's wasn't about salads). That was the majority of the questions! The doctor I chose was a bit harsher when it came to guidelines and that works for me. When he talked about the two week pre-op diet (which is quiet liberal than most other doctors) someone asked "what if I can't do that?" His response was "well then you aren't ready for this surgery, come back to me when you are!" The two week pre-op is a breeze compared to following the rules afterwards. I had to be mentally ready to say I was willing to stick to the plan no matter what. Because after the surgery, it is even more critical to be able to follow the rules. I know not everyone can make that mental switch 100% but for me, it's what works. I know if I started slipping, it would be a slippery slope and I would need to seek professional help.
The other comment my surgeon made that also stuck with me is that he doesn't care about my first year post op weight loss...because that's easy. He cares about the following years because that's when it shows that I'm determined to keep it off. So this first year I HAVE to make the necessary changes to sustain this for life. At least for me, this is the path that I am choosing.

I remember when I was pre-op and going to different surgical seminars, there was one in particular that stood out for me in a bad way. For the first time I felt like I was in a crowd that had little knowledge about the surgeries let alone what would be required. Granted I'm a research nut so that could be just me. I didn't learn a thing from that seminar I didn't already know BUT the big issue that bothered me the most was the questions from the audience about when they were going to be able to eat their favorite foods (and you can guess it's wasn't about salads). That was the majority of the questions! The doctor I chose was a bit harsher when it came to guidelines and that works for me. When he talked about the two week pre-op diet (which is quiet liberal than most other doctors) someone asked "what if I can't do that?" His response was "well then you aren't ready for this surgery, come back to me when you are!" The two week pre-op is a breeze compared to following the rules afterwards. I had to be mentally ready to say I was willing to stick to the plan no matter what. Because after the surgery, it is even more critical to be able to follow the rules. I know not everyone can make that mental switch 100% but for me, it's what works. I know if I started slipping, it would be a slippery slope and I would need to seek professional help.
The other comment my surgeon made that also stuck with me is that he doesn't care about my first year post op weight loss...because that's easy. He cares about the following years because that's when it shows that I'm determined to keep it off. So this first year I HAVE to make the necessary changes to sustain this for life. At least for me, this is the path that I am choosing.

I remember when I was pre-op and going to different surgical seminars, there was one in particular that stood out for me in a bad way. For the first time I felt like I was in a crowd that had little knowledge about the surgeries let alone what would be required. Granted I'm a research nut so that could be just me. I didn't learn a thing from that seminar I didn't already know BUT the big issue that bothered me the most was the questions from the audience about when they were going to be able to eat their favorite foods (and you can guess it's wasn't about salads). That was the majority of the questions! The doctor I chose was a bit harsher when it came to guidelines and that works for me. When he talked about the two week pre-op diet (which is quiet liberal than most other doctors) someone asked "what if I can't do that?" His response was "well then you aren't ready for this surgery, come back to me when you are!" The two week pre-op is a breeze compared to following the rules afterwards. I had to be mentally ready to say I was willing to stick to the plan no matter what. Because after the surgery, it is even more critical to be able to follow the rules. I know not everyone can make that mental switch 100% but for me, it's what works. I know if I started slipping, it would be a slippery slope and I would need to seek professional help.
The other comment my surgeon made that also stuck with me is that he doesn't care about my first year post op weight loss...because that's easy. He cares about the following years because that's when it shows that I'm determined to keep it off. So this first year I HAVE to make the necessary changes to sustain this for life. At least for me, this is the path that I am choosing.

I remember when I was pre-op and going to different surgical seminars, there was one in particular that stood out for me in a bad way. For the first time I felt like I was in a crowd that had little knowledge about the surgeries let alone what would be required. Granted I'm a research nut so that could be just me. I didn't learn a thing from that seminar I didn't already know BUT the big issue that bothered me the most was the questions from the audience about when they were going to be able to eat their favorite foods (and you can guess it's wasn't about salads). That was the majority of the questions! The doctor I chose was a bit harsher when it came to guidelines and that works for me. When he talked about the two week pre-op diet (which is quiet liberal than most other doctors) someone asked "what if I can't do that?" His response was "well then you aren't ready for this surgery, come back to me when you are!" The two week pre-op is a breeze compared to following the rules afterwards. I had to be mentally ready to say I was willing to stick to the plan no matter what. Because after the surgery, it is even more critical to be able to follow the rules. I know not everyone can make that mental switch 100% but for me, it's what works. I know if I started slipping, it would be a slippery slope and I would need to seek professional help.
The other comment my surgeon made that also stuck with me is that he doesn't care about my first year post op weight loss...because that's easy. He cares about the following years because that's when it shows that I'm determined to keep it off. So this first year I HAVE to make the necessary changes to sustain this for life. At least for me, this is the path that I am choosing.

I'm post op and that's what I drink immediately for the day. I get my 40 grams of Protein in immediately. You have to sample a few flavors to find one tolerable.
It is considered a clear liquid.

I couldn't bare the thought of broth so I chose to buy chicken noodle Soup and strain it. Basically I love buying Soups and straining them. I hate throwing out the good bits but the broth tastes so much better!

I'm post op and that's what I drink immediately for the day. I get my 40 grams of Protein in immediately. You have to sample a few flavors to find one tolerable.
It is considered a clear liquid.

Jessica, when I found out I was approved I called my coordinator who then called and got the verbal approval as well. You don't have to wait on the paper! That could be a week or so. Anyway...CONGRATULATIONS!!!

Ok I couldn't stand it anymore so I called my insurance. I am approved!!!! Now just have to wait for Dr to receive the letter and call me.

Closed account and had a party with my scissors after buying only size XS/S and 6/8 this weekend!

So my fiance and I have been living with the in-laws for a few months after my surgery and the whole family is doing so well! I've been doing a lot of the cooking, to take some pressure off my MIL, so I'm making high-protein, healthy meals every night. My MIL has been coming with me to the gym and my FIL will go with me on walks around the property where he likes to scope out the deer and check the wildlife cameras. When I visit my parents, my dad goes to the YMCA with me to swim almost every day and he started using MFP to track his food and exercise intake.
Recently my FIL has lost some weight and my MIL's cholesterol is down so much her doctor told her she doesn't need to go on medication after all! My dad had a physical after prostate surgery and he got a flawless bill of health. I'm so glad my journey to better health is having so many good effects on my family. Sometimes we can inspire people around us without even realizing it.

UPDATE:
i weighed myself today (11.30.12)
& im now 144lbs.
down 1lb.
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hey guys!
im officially 24 days away from hitting my one year surgiversary and i cant believe it! i was sleeved dec 20th, 2011.
im 5'1.
i started at:
weight: 273lbs
bmi: 51.6
jean size: 18-24 (depending on stretch)
i am now at:
weight: 145lbs
bmi: 27.4
jean size: 2-4 (depending on stretch)
lost: 128lbs.
my goal is to be 135lbs.

3 words: Laser hair Removal! I got a Groupon deal and it is amazing! It is a long process, one treatment every 6-7 weeks and takes at least 6 treatments usually. But totally worth it! Ask Santa for a gift certificate this year

A year ago, before surgery, when I traveled I took way too many clothes. I never knew what would look right on any given day so I took too many things and consequently, my luggage (and my body!) were way too heavy. And I never felt like I looked good in anything; plus I had to take shoes that I could walk in, which were always ugly.
Fast forward a year...I had the surgery, lost 85 lbs, am at at goal...and just spent 10 days with carry on luggage and a pair of boots! All I took was two pair of pants, a few basic tops, 4 scarves (to change things around), a light jacket, a heavy jacket, one dress. And I was set for anything! We went from walking around Prague, Berlin and Frankfurt all day, to getting dressed up for concerts. I had my one year check up and tried to look as nice as I could for that and it was all very easy. When you are thin, travel just gets easier!
Oh, and the fact that I could walk everywhere, all day without my feet, knees, hips hurting was so great. Wish I would have had the opportunity to have this done years ago.
Photo of my and my husband (and one of my scarves!) at the Charles Bridge in Prague and with my doctor in Frankfurt and another all dressed up at a fancy dinner. More on my blog that I just updated today if you're interested.

I finally settled on one by Rubbermaid which has a flip top lid (no straw) and holds 32 oz. I like to know that I need to drink two in a day. Simple! Plus wide mouth for easy cleaning and for adding ice.

I finally settled on one by Rubbermaid which has a flip top lid (no straw) and holds 32 oz. I like to know that I need to drink two in a day. Simple! Plus wide mouth for easy cleaning and for adding ice.

Hey there sleeve sister! My date is 12/11 too! Good luck!

My husband is an ultra runner and has progressed to zero drop shoes. It's something you have to work into very slowly to avoid injury. Some love it some don't. The thing that has helped him the most is cross training. He's hoping to do a 100 mile race in a little over a month. So he cross trains on a bike and an eliptigo. I hope to figure out how to enjoy a marathon let alone an ultra! Maybe next year. Good luck!

Good luck! I did a marathon in Arizona and was passed by a guy running BAREFOOT. it was his 100th marathon running completely barefoot. It was amazing. Of course I was soon passed by a cute little old lady...I want to be as fast as her someday!

Woohoo! Congratulations! Doing a happy dance for you.

My husband is an ultra runner and has progressed to zero drop shoes. It's something you have to work into very slowly to avoid injury. Some love it some don't. The thing that has helped him the most is cross training. He's hoping to do a 100 mile race in a little over a month. So he cross trains on a bike and an eliptigo. I hope to figure out how to enjoy a marathon let alone an ultra! Maybe next year. Good luck!

Looks like my date is 12/11! I have to say that choosing BCBS Federal was the best decision I made! They have been fantastic!