chad2rad

so, let's hear the funniest response to your weight loss.
For me, it was my 11 year old nephew. I hadn't seen him in a long time, and, when he found out that I had lost 100 pounds, his response was 'he's lost 100 POUNDS!?!?!? I wonder if he's still funny?'
When I finally got to see him the next week, I told him that I was sorry, but all of my funny melted off.
So, what's yours?

I feel the pain as each person shares their story. Sometimes those memories are still vivid and real. Reading these through, I see a common bond... we are not a lot alone. We are strong and overcomers.
I hope each us finds the strength to let go and heal. We are worth it.
I can't wait for surgery this fall. The journey continues.
Peace
Chad

Since this post popped up in my feed today, I thought I'd post that I'm LOVING the iPod Touch!! I use it every day for gym time! It's great because I can turn off my phone, go into the gym and workout without worrying about my phone ringing or sending me a text message while I'm working out.
I just discovered that I can listen to audiobooks on there, which is great because my hour of cardio gets pretty boring and I can be a thousand miles away while logging cardio time!!

Amen!

Oh, it does get better over time. BUT, the first 4 weeks post-surgery were probably the longest 4 weeks of my life (except maybe for boot camp, but that was a long long time ago).
Yes, a support system is very important. But they're not the final answer. I had an outstanding support system, but they didn't ultimately decide what went into my mouth, how much walking I did on any particular day, how much anxiety I felt, what food cravings I had etc. They helped, but in the end it was all up to me.
Unless your support system is going to act like a dungeon master, you need to be able to make these choices for yourself and be able to deal with the mental obstacles as they come whether your supports system is there or not.
A support system makes it easier, but you can't expect that they're going to do all the work for you. If you do, then no, you're probably not ready.

I sympathize and I think they're being too harsh on you. But they do the psych eval for a reason. This surgery really isn't for everyone. It has pushed my willpower and tenacity to the max. I've gotten depressed and had some anxiety moments, but I was able to handle them. And I've learned a LOT about myself...some bad but mostly good. The sleeve can test your strength and if you're not up for it, maybe you shouldn't get it.
Ok haters, go ahead and criticize this, but I really DO think this surgery isn't for everyone.

That is so exciting!! I started my journey in July and I'm more nervous about getting approved to have it than actually having the surgery! I can't wait to feel that relief, to be able to embrace it, and I'm happy that you're getting yours done so quickly! It makes me hopeful for my journey.
Good luck to you!!

Good luck and best wishes for a successful surgery and easy recovery! There's plenty of room for you on the losers bench since we are all shrinking!!

Hi nice to meet u - welcome!! 6 mths ago I was where u were and now I can honestly say WOW this is the best thing ever because it FORCES u to stop eating before u ridiculously overstuff urself. It is the tool I needed because that in conjunction with daily exercise will produce amazing results which will leave u incredibly happy and others in complete awe! Good luck to u and please re-post after surgery and tell us how ur doing!!! It'll be a FANTASTIC journey!!!

I feel the pain as each person shares their story. Sometimes those memories are still vivid and real. Reading these through, I see a common bond... we are not a lot alone. We are strong and overcomers.
I hope each us finds the strength to let go and heal. We are worth it.
I can't wait for surgery this fall. The journey continues.
Peace
Chad

I have lower extremit lymphedema as well and have the pump- I did the daily bandages, MLD and reed sleeves. Unfortunately due to skin allergies I am unable to wear daily compression garments. However immediately after my surgery my lymphedema improved quite drastically to the point I went 3 mos with no pump- then out of the blue I developed cellulitis in my legs and they swelled like before- I am again on daily pumping and am going to get the circ-aid's soon. Overall it is improved- as you know it will NEVER go away- My doctor says the damage is done and somewhat irrepairable. It is very disheartening too because I was soo looking forward to wearing dresses and skirts and shorts and am still very self conscious with that. ITs unfortunate because if you look on the top people can notice and compliment etc.. but then the bottom half is like WHOA... what happened ...

Not morning wood, but oh boy has it gotten BIGGER after a 120 lb weight loss! It's like I took a couple donuts off it. My girlfriend acts like she hit the jackpot! lmao!

That's enough motivation for me!

I love Pasta and eat a lot of it. Remember, not all carbs are bad carbs. If you eat whole wheat Pasta, that is actually quite good for you and honestly, I can't tell any difference in the taste.
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That is awesome!! I have my follow up next Thursday and hope to soon be back at Water aerobics and spin classes. This week, I'm sticking w/ walking and trying my best to listen to my body.

LOL! I have actually weighed myself pre and post defecation before. You would be shocked at the weight difference....LOL

My nut said to me they are not whey isolate, so there is a lot of filler in them and we cant count all the Protein listed.

Remember the sanctity of marriage. I'm willing to bet that you said something like, "Till death do us part", or "As long as we both shall live" when you made your vows. This might just be my opinion, but I don't think vows are something one should abandon when they become inconvenient.

Thinking about all the past hurts, embarrassing moments, pain, mistakes, disappointments I have used food to cover up. I am wearing many of those scars literally today in my over weight body.
I can't wait to the day I have surgery, that pivotal point of letting go and finding freedom in who I am and who I am called to become.
No more shame and embarrassment. Pray that I will be a much better husband, father, friend and man.
Anyone have good insight on letting go in your journey?
Freedom, Chad

Thought this was a good reminder...

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Thinking about all the past hurts, embarrassing moments, pain, mistakes, disappointments I have used food to cover up. I am wearing many of those scars literally today in my over weight body.
I can't wait to the day I have surgery, that pivotal point of letting go and finding freedom in who I am and who I am called to become.
No more shame and embarrassment. Pray that I will be a much better husband, father, friend and man.
Anyone have good insight on letting go in your journey?
Freedom, Chad

Woo Hoo!! Do that thing!

That's a great reminder! With all the "I only lost X amount!" and "The scale won't move" posts, this is a nice pick me up for all of us. The scale does not define you! =) Thanks!

Amen!! We spend so much time caught up on that stupid thing!!! It's the devil!! LOL