sandradee0124

My mom a week after my surgery: "I've always been prejudiced against obese people". What? What?????

It is very hard to believe that five months have FLOWN by since my surgery. I have had many changes in my life, health and overall self-confidence since then. First, I don't know how much weight I've lost. I don't weigh myself anymore and I haven't been to the surgeon in 2 months. I did have to go see my PCP for cataract surgery clearance, and I lost 50+ lbs since I saw her. I really measure myself against my clothes fitting, or my energy, or my ability to do something I haven't done in a long time. Many many changes: where I shop for clothes. How many things I participate in that I never had the courage for before. My energy level. I don't really get hungry or tempted to eat more or something I shouldn't. I looked back at the diet plan, and after 3 months post-surgery I don't really have any restrictions. I can't eat more than 3/4 - 1c of food 3 times a day but I try to have a protein bar if I'm working out. I drink a lot more water, very little soda or coffee, and very very little alcohol. I focus on lean protein and veggies. People I haven't seen since Christmas last year are shocked. I guess I enjoy that. I can't wait to see my mom at Thanksgiving -- I haven't seen her since before the surgery in May. Its so different than five months ago. I'm so glad I did this surgery and am so appreciative of all the support! I'm a little more than halfway there -- and enjoying every day...........

Can you have clear broth like chicken or beef? Maybe warming up something like that would help? Get good rest and try to drink water and walk when you can. It seemed like although I didn't feel like walking, the more I walked the better I felt.

You look so good -- skinny, happy and relaxed! I'm glad you had a good time. Not a good shocker on the starbucks cake. It is dismaying to find out something has WAY more calories than it should based on taste and satisfaction...... You have great goals -- best of luck!!

I don't have a problem with carbonation, but rice is not so good. I think part of what we all go through is learning about what works and what doesn't. I'm sorry you had to go through that, and glad you are feeling better. I call that chest pain "elephant sitting on my chest". What else helps me? walking or at least staying upright and not sitting or laying down.

I'm sorry for what you've been through. But you are motivated and enthusiastic and have gotten yourself to a good place. Best of luck to you............

Yeah! I'm glad it went well. Enjoy your weekend!

I read this on an old forum response and it works! You put your left hand under your left armpit and pump it (the chicken dance). I almost instantly burp hard and that feeling is gone! Whether or not you do this in public is entirely up to you (smiling). I sometimes get this even if I chew well and wait between bites. When I get stressed my band tightens a lot and I don't realize how much until something gets stuck. I used to put my finger down my throat and I got really scared when it happened the second or third time (what might happen to the band) so I found this response. Drinking Water or liquids makes it worse for me. Good luck!

Get the rejection reasons and work on them specifically. For example: not on a documented weight loss program 6 months -- join weight watchers. That was one of the biggest issues I had. Don't give up without a fight!

I'm not there yet, but I was told to (every time I go to my surgeon) to talk about the issues I'm having with skin folds -- rashes, infections etc so they can document early and then submit to insurance when the time is right. Blue Cross (Anthem - California) will cover items considered to be non-cosmetic. What I want is a plastic surgeon who can just slide these bat wings to my boobs! I could accomplish two things at once :-).

You are doing so well! I put the scale in the garage -- I was addicted to the stupid thing and let a number rule my emotions. Trust me, our new life just keeps getting better and better..........

Its funny, I said almost the same thing to a friend this morning. I've lost weight and gotten healthier; I am more confident and I do more. Now I'm exhausted to the point of going to bed at 8:00pm last night. But look at all the fun things and great memories you are creating! And besides, you are a great inspiration :-).

Congratulations on your bandaversary, and thank you for all your great posts. You've been a fantastic source of support and information!

Dad said it so well! I would add -- set a mini goal for yourself (eating right today, getting a walk in). Find time to do small things like planning your meals while you walk. You can do this! Like you said -- you have come this far! Schedules are hectic but make it work for you :-). Best of luck!!!

I'm so glad you are feeling well! I agree on the support groups; they are so helpful. I'm sorry you have to go back to work, but I felt like I was ready and it kept my mind off being hungry. Get good rest tonight and wear something that makes you feel good tomorrow. Be confident in what you've done and proud of yourself. That will be the best answer of all -- you being happy!! Best of luck......

OH MY!!!! Congratulations on the engagement/wedding/move! I'm so so so happy for you! I wish you nothing but the best with your family, your health, your happiness! Thanks for the post!

Always, my friend. Hugs :::::::::::

Thoughts and prayers are with you and hubby. You have the drive, motivation and support to do this. Welcome back on the wagon :-)

Much love and prayers to you my friend! Keep in touch. Hugs to you, hubby, daughter and parents!............

I'm sorry you aren't feeling well. I hope the shakes, the vitamins and the overall feeling of knowing your band is still there; working away for you (and with you) will help. I am sending you a virtual hug and lots of prayers...........

You are doing so fantastic, congratulations! Your posts are so inspiring and motivational!

You LOOK FANTASTIC!!! I just saw the new profile picture! I'm doing the C25K program and I'm basically running 3 miles 3 days a week so I'm ready! My first run will be the Turkey Trot in Dallas Texas :-). Congratulations on your success, thank you for all your support, Debra, and best wishes for the race and life!

First plane ride - check First full week away from home - check Had a moment of tears filling eyes when I got in my very own seat with its very own armrest down and FIT. Snapped the belt shut with about 6 inches remaining. Tray table went down with room to spare! Stood at a trade show 8 hours a day. So not tired we walked from the hotel to the Exhibition Hall each way each day in the 95 degree Phoenix heat. Worked out twice on top of all that (still on C25K program), carried boxes, cleaned booths, went to events and still not tired and no swollen ankles. Thank you Dr. Oliak. Thank you Blue Cross, Thank you friends and family, Thank you me for doing this. Thank God for the blessing of health recovery and peace of mind. I am a different person than I was 6 months ago. Could NEVER have done it without the surgery, the support, the information and the motivation. Love you all!!! :thumbup:

Congratulations my friend. You have done fantastic from the start in terms of weight loss, clothes sizes, motivation and enthusiasm. Best wishes for continued success!

Many of us probably have stories similar to this. I sucked on olives. Its the flavor I guess? Just be careful not to take a bite! Not that one bite will send you on a path to not being compliant; it might not feel so good going down and end up coming back up :-). Take care of you!