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Bklynike

LAP-BAND Patients
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Blog Entries posted by Bklynike

  1. Bklynike

    Long Time

    By Bklynike,

    Well, it has been a long time since I posted anything on this webiste. Once upon a time I was posting daily, then the site changed and I couldn't locate most of my friends or even figure out how to post. So, I am hoping some of my old banster buddies and perhaps some new friends will read my blog and send a hello.
     
    I was banded on June 21st, 2010 - my birthday. It was the best gift I have ever given myself. As of today, I have lost 72 lbs. I feel amazing and love the gym. I am still going 3-4 times a week, when health and family issues don't get in the way. I have been suffering with bronchitis this week, so I missed both my Friday night and today's trip to the gym, but I am anticipating by Tues I will be going back.
     
    I have only had 2 fills since my surgery - the first was 1cc and the 2nd was a 1/4cc. I am scheduled to go back in March for another, which I think I will be ready for. It is not that I am eating the wrong foods, but I find I am able to eat larger portions and this weight loss is based on portion control and exercise. It amazes me how great I feel at the gym and how exhausted and old I feel when I get home. I guess at 56 years of age I can't do what I used to do in my 20s and although in my mind I am still very young, my body is screaming "Enough old lady".
     
    I used to have my husband take a picture of me at the beginning of each month and I would post it to the old site. Unfortunately, I have no clue how to post a photo at this new site, so the green shirt photos have been a thing of the past. But I can tell you I had started at a size 3-4X and am now wearing Larges. I actually needs some new pants because my 18s are getting ridiculously big on me and my co-workers are making fun of me. So perhaps that will be my next project. I'll pick up two or three pairs of jeans; I can still wear my tops. I have had to go back to wearing a belt. Now I am not complaining, in fact I am thrilled to death that I have lost so much weight. People who haven't seen me in a while are shocked at how much I have lost in a relatively short time.
     
    I wish all of my fellow bandsters and those who are contemplating getting the surgery the best of success and good health. This is truly a gift.
  2. Bklynike
    First let me which everyone a very happy and healthy New Year.
     
    With that out of the way, I must say this has been the craziest year I have ever had. Let's start at the beginning. On January 5th of last year (2010) I had a mastectomy becuase I had breast cancer. I did not have the reconstruction done right away, because my plastic surgeon knew I was having Lapband surgery in the summer - postponed from December when I learned about the cancer. He said my body would be changing to drastically so he would put it off. He did not want me to be lop-sided. I had my Lapband surgery on 6/21, my actual birthday that I call my rebirth.
     
    I did not need chemo - I did not need radiation - I have lost 69.5 lbs - I am cancer free - I am no longer diabetic - I no longer have sleep apnea - I no longer have high blood pressure
     
    I am hoping to have my tummy tuck and boobs done in December of this year.
     
    I know I will always have to watch what I eat, always exercise and be ever viligent. I will do so because I am loving my new self. I guess my journey will never end, but I thank God everyday I made the journey at all.
  3. Bklynike

    Happy New Year

    By Bklynike,

    I am entering the New Year in the Onederland - 68.5 lbs down and feeling great. The greatest thing I ever did for myself.
     
    I went to the doctor on Wed to get my 2nd fill, and was told I only needed 1/4cc, giving me a total of approximately 5cc in my 14cc band.
     
    I wish you all a happy and healthy New Year. May you loose all of the weight you want to lose, not be hungry between meals, stop craving carbs, come into a lot of money for your new wardrobe and be comfortable enough to wear a bathing suit this summer!
  4. Bklynike

    Almost 1 year

    By Bklynike,

    For any of you who have read my blogs, you know I had breast cancer last year. My 1-year anniversary of being cancer free is coming on January 5th. I saw my oncologist today and she was absolutely thrilled by my progress - my numbers are great and my weight loss has been a huge help. Down almost 68lbs so far. I am still in remission - cancer free is a great feeling. Getting thinner is also a great feeling. I love my lapband.
     
    I am having a problem figuring out this new site. I hope all of my fellow bandsters are still getting what they need here. I look forward to reading everyone else's blogs, how they are doing and suggestions to getting better success. Weight loss is not an easy thing - hence the lapband surgery, but it is attainable and I know I will succeed. I have something to look forward to - I will be getting my boobs and a tummy tuck some time around Nov/Dec of 2011. I need to lose all the weight I want to lose and keep my weight steady so I can have the surgery. I was going to have the reconstruction at the time of the mastectomy (left breast), but because I was going to be losing so much weight, the surgeon wanted me to wait. So I will have both done at the same time.
     
    I already look better, I am cancer free, I have a fabulous husband and family and the new year is upon us. I wsh everyone who reads this the most wonderful holiday season. May you live as long as you want, but never want as long as you live. Here's to an easy journey for us all.
  5. Bklynike

    Back from Vacation

    By Bklynike,

    We are back from our 2 weeks in CT. The cold weather was a wondeful change to our 80s in Florida.
     
    I was so excited to see my sister and friends and to get their reactions to my new look. Everyone cried when they saw me. Good tears, thank goodness. They were very proud of me, which made me feel wonderful. I was very worried that 2 weeks away would cause me a weight gain. I tried to sign up at LA Fitness for the 2 weeks, but they wanted so much money, I decided against it. My aunt had a treadmill in her basement - a very old one, but it worked. And my cousin lent me some weights. So I went down into the cold cellar every other day and worked out for an hour. I also did not cheat on my food in take. I stayed on track and when I stepped on the gym scale today was thrilled to find I had a 3.1lb loss. I have just over 1 lbs to lose to hit the Onderland. I have lost 67 lbs since my journey started and feel amazing. And I have to say I got whistled at in the supermarket!
     
    We had a great Thanksgiving. Now I have Christmas and New Year's to get through. And because I am hosting Christmas Eve and Christmas Day at my home, I can control what gets served and eaten by me. All is good.
     
    I think 2011 will be a good year for us all.
  6. Bklynike

    Happy Thanksgiving

    By Bklynike,

    Hubby and I will be traveling tomorrow for CT to visit our family and friends for the holidays.
     
    I have many things to be thankful for this year, as I am sure most of you do, as well. I got my lap-band this year, which has helped me in so many ways. I am no longer a diabetic due to diet and exercise. I have dropped 64lbs, meaning I have 4 lbs left to be in the Onederland. I am still cancer free!!!! My new clothes are starting to get big on me, so I know I am doing things the right way. My husband, family and frieds are all doing well.
     
    I am happy and I am looking good. I have somewhere around 50lbs to go, and I know I will get there.
     
    To everyone of you reading this, have a very happy healthy holiday. May we all get through the holidays with the help of our lap-bands and not have a weight gain.
     
    I will be checking in whle on vacation.
  7. Bklynike

    Fabulous!!!!!!!

    By Bklynike,

    When I started my journey October of last year, I was planning on having my lap band surgery in December. I had met with my surgeon, Dr. Bass. and all was good to go, or so I thought.
     
    Unfortunately, a little thing like breast cancer and a mastectomy took center stage and I had to postpone the surgery until my birthday on June 21st of this year.
     
    At that time I was 5'3" tall and weighed 268lbs. I had diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, my thyroid was not working properly, sleep apnea and overall just felt like crap all of the time. I couldn't walk 10 feet without stopping to gain my breath back. I was not able to sleep and because of the diabetes, my vision would blur after each meal.
     
    Knowing I was having the mastectomy and then I would have the LB, I started to eat a little bit less of the really bad foods and lost a couple of lbs. Then the liquid diet and after the lap-band, well you all know.
     
    I was at my primary care doctor today. From last year at this time to today, I have lost a total of 62lbs. I found out that I am no longer a diabetic and was told to stop my diabetic medication. I was not insulin dependent, but I did have to take pills twice a day. I had Type 2 diabetes for the last 6 years and now I do not. I have been able to control it with diet and exercise.
     
    I also do not have sleep apnea any longer. My blood pressure is perfect. In fact by my next visit, my doctor said she may take away that medication as well. My cholesterol was also better, so in 3 months I am hoping to drop that pill too!
     
    I have heard the phrase "you can't teach an old dog new tricks". Well, I am here to tell you that the phrase is no longer valid where I am concerned. I have learned to #1 take care of myself first. #2 Use the band as a tool #3 Eating correctly and exercise will save my life or at least make my life better.
     
    I know I am looking better, but I am healthier and that is the most important thing I could be.
     
    I wish you all the greatest success with your lap-band becuase I am here to tell you that it may be a slow and steady jog to the finish line, but I know we will all get there. We took years putting on the pudge, we need to love ourselves enough to allow the time to take it off.
     
    Today I am 206 lbs, cancer free, diabetic free, sleep apnea free, my cholesterol and high blood presssure are under control. I feel amazing and am getting stronger everyday. I am still only 5'3", but I feel 10' tall.
     
    Have a great night.
  8. Bklynike

    Their here...

    By Bklynike,

    I finally got my new pictures uploaded - one in the green shirt and another one that I personally liked.
     
    I can't believe the difference in just a little over 4 months. People keep telling me how great I look, but It is easier for me to see the changes in my body when I look at these pictures. I have to say I feel so good about it. :scared2: I actually weighed in tonight at 206.8. The Onederland is getting closer - I can feel it and I can't wait to join many of you who have already reached it. I am so proud of you all and I am proud of the work I am doing. I am truly loving this journey.
     
    Tomorrow I will see my primary and then I wil find out if I can stop some of my medications: diabetes, cholesterol, high blood pressure and thyroid. I am excited about the possibility. I know if I don't stop them this time, I will the next time. I have already cut everything in half, so it is just a matter of time. And now that I have had the surgery, I will have much more time.
     
    OK, what are you waiting for? Go look at my pics and report back!
     
    Have a great night everyone.
  9. Bklynike
    Today is the first time I have been able to get back on line. We've had no internet for a week. The cable guy actually came out on Sunday and replaced all kinds of wires and things to get us up and running. Finally, we are able to check emails again. I had well over 200, mostly garbage
     
    Because the system was down, I haven't been able to post my new green shirt picture. But I did have it taken and now the hubs has to upload it for me. I am hoping he can get to it soon.
     
    My 2nd fill was scheduled for this week, but I postponed it until after Thanksgiving. I still don't need it yet. As of today, I am down to 207lbs, which is 62 lbs since I started my journey (47lbs since my surgery).
     
    I have conquered my nemesis, the dreaded elliptical machine. I am up to 35 minutes and I really love it. I can't wait until I can get up to 1 hour on it. When I first started using it, I was only able to go about 2-3 minutes. Then I went to 5 and every time I tried it, I stayed on a minute longer than the last time. I don't get winded on it - the problem is my feet. They start to go numb. I spoke to one of the trainers who said it was not uncommon. I am hoping I will be able to get past it.
     
    I will try to get my pics uploaded and check back in within the next day or two.
     
    Have a great night everyone.
  10. Bklynike

    Green Shirt Picture

    By Bklynike,

    Hi, Everyone:
     
    Today is November 1st and I just took my monthly green shirt photo. I can't believe the changes in how I look and feel. It has been just a little over 4 months and I am down 46 lbs, plus the 14lbs I lost prior to the actual surgery. That is 60lbs folks. I believe someone told me today that 60lbs is about the weight of a 2 year old child.
     
    This surgery has saved my life in more ways than one. Besides feeling amazing, I am so much happier. I can do things now that I haven't been able to do in years like tie my own shoes, cross my legs and walk up a flight of stairs. I am sleeping so much better and I can actually see my feet!
     
    For anyone who is thinking about having this surgery, don't walk - run to the nearest surgeon and get it done.
     
    I will have my pictures posted by the end of the week so look for them.
     
    All I can say is I hope each and everyone of you who read this blog are feeling as good as I am.
  11. Bklynike

    2nd Fill

    By Bklynike,

    Are you losing what you think you should?
     
    I wasn't sure if I was losing enough. 41 lbs in 4 months seemed like a good amount to me, but I read blogs here and some people are losing much more than I am. Some have lost less, but I wasn't sure. I felt that by talking to my doctor's PA, I would learn what was right for me. I wanted to make sure I was still on the right track with the foods I eat and with the 4 trips a week to the gym were enough.
     
    So, I went to get my second fill today. My first fill was a piece of cake, so I didn't expect today's fill to be any different.
     
    So the PA comes in and we start talking. How are you feeling? I am feeling great. Absolutely amazing.
    Are you losing? About 10 lbs a month, consistently.
    Are you hungry between meals? No. I am usually satisfied with my 3 meals a day.
    Have your portion size changed? No, I am still eating about the same amount as usual. Protein first, then veggies and if I have room, salad. I stop eating when I feel satisfied.
     
    We spoke about the fact that people who have let's say 200 or more lbs to lose will lose in larger quantities - 5-10 or more lbs a week, as opposed to me. I have about 60 lbs left to go, so my loss of approximately 10lbs a month is a great accomplishment.
     
    We decided I didn't need a fill today. She said she didn't want to mess with something that was working so I will go back on November 12th, if anything changes. If not, I'll reschedule for some time in December.
     
    What did I learn at my doctor's visit today? I learned that I should not compare my loss or gain to anyone else's. Each of us has our own journey to take and each journey will be different. If I have any doubt, my doctor and his staff will be there to keep me on track.
     
    I also realized that I love myself more and more each day. I am so proud of myself and I am starting to really like the way I look. I now have clothes that fit and it makes me happy to see myself looking so much better. I love hearing friends and coworkers comment on the changes I have made so far.
     
    I took this journey so I would be healthier, get off my medications and to look and feel better and I did it for me. My husband and family will also benefit from my Lap Band because if I am healthier, I will live longer.
     
    Thank you Dr. Bass, thank you Lap-Band. :thumbup:
  12. Bklynike

    Wow

    By Bklynike,

    I hope you are all having a great Sunday.
     
    I am so excited. I weighed in today at the gym and I was 210.2. I lost over 2 lbs this week giving me a total weight loss of 41.2 lbs since my Lap Band surgery on June 21!
     
    Prior to my LP, I was on Weight Watchers, Jenny Craig, Nutra System, etc, etc, etc. Each time I reached a 25lb loss, I would stall. That was it, all she wrote, the game was over. Then I would gain it all back, plus more.
     
    I am so close to the onederland that I can almost touch it. So, what do you call when you are 210-219? My trainer says you are in the countdown. OK, so I am in the countdown.
     
    I have my 2nd fill scheduled for tomorrow morning. I'll see if the doctor feels that I need it. I got 1cc in my 14cc band at about 9 weeks, so we will see what they do tomorrow, which starts my 18 week.
     
    Well, enjoy the rest of your Sunday. :smile2:
  13. Bklynike

    Average Weight Loss

    By Bklynike,

    It is Friday night and I am excited to say I am down to 213.2:thumbup:.
     
    I wasn't in the gym last weekend because of our trip to Orlando, but from a week ago Sunday I lost 2.2 lbs. I have my 2nd fill scheduled for October 25th. I am losing an average of a pound a week. I wish it were more, but I don't know if it should be more? I have always heard 1-1.5 lbs a week is a healthy way to lose and keep it off. But with my band I thought it might be more:confused:.
     
    I have to remind myself that it took many, many years to put on the pudge and it will take time to get it off.
     
    Back in January I was 268 lbs. I started watching what I was eating, cutting out most of the carbs and started losing some weight. In May I joined the gym. By my surgery in June I was down to 251.4 lbs.
     
    Monday starts week 17 and I'm down, since surgery, 38.2 lbs. I feel really good and I am doing what I know I should be doing.
     
    I don't eat any carbs, unless they are naturally in the food I am eating. No bread, no pasta (this one hurts, I love pasta), no potatoes, no rice. I have gotten used to eating hamburgers without the bread and french fries!
     
    What has your average weight loss been like?
     
    Check out my photo album and my new tattoo!
  14. Bklynike

    Last Time

    By Bklynike,

    At work on Friday the woman I have given all of my over sized clothes to handed me 2 coupons for the Avenue. They are having a huge sale this weekend - 31% off everything in the store, off your total purchase, including sale items. This will probably be the last time I have to shop in a big-girl's store.
     
    I went yesterday to the Avenue near my father-in-law's place and got 3 tops in an 18/20. I really liked the tops and especially the price, so today I went to a different Avenue near my house and got 3 additional tops in an 18/20 and 2 in 14/16. I figured, why not? I'll eventually fit into them, right?:thumbup:
     
    I had just finished at the gym, so I was all sweaty and couldn't try anything on, but I am a firm 18/20 right now. I remember just a short time ago being a 26-28. I weighed in today at 212.2:thumbup:. Just 2.3 to get out of the double digits. I can't wait. I count 10 lbs at a time, so 209, here I come!
     
    You can get your own coupon at www.avenue.com. Today is the last day of the 31% sale, so if you need some new things at a really great price, check it out.
     
    Have a great day everyone. :smile:
  15. Bklynike

    Breast Cancer Month

    By Bklynike,

    Hello fellow bandsters!
     
    My husband and I were away this weekend in Orlando, which is about 3 1/2 hours from our home. There was a horror convention going on for my husband and shopping with my girlfrieds for me.
     
    I cannot wear any of my old clothes, so I have given almost everything away to a co-worker for her and her daughter to share. So when the opportunity came up to hit some of the outlet stores with 2 friends who live up in Orlando, I jumped at the chance.
     
    I never knew the Gap carried larger sizes. Most stores will go up to a 14, the Gap goes up to a 20. I am now wearing an 18-20, so I was able to get 3 pairs of jeans and 3 sweaters for my vacation in November. We walked and walked and walked and tried on shoes, pants, tops, and had a blast. A year ago I wouldn't have been able to do the amount of walking I did this weekend. The weight loss has certainly made such a huge difference in my life.
     
    On Sunday I had a 1 hour massage at the spa while my husband was at the horror convention. I was resting/reading by the pool when he called that I should meet him for lunch. As we were walking around looking at all of the costumed people, I noticed a room with all tattoo artists doing tattoos.
     
    I have thought about getting a tattoo for a while, but never really had the opportunity - until seeing what was going on.
     
    I went into the huge room and walked around viewing some of the artist's work and found a young woman who I thought would be really good. So I actually got a tattoo.
     
    I am a breast cancer survivor. Anyone who has read my blog knows I had a mastectomy on January 5th of this year. October is breast cancer month and the month I was diagnosed with breast cancer a year ago. So, I have uploaded a picture of the tattoo that is now on the side of my left calf.
     
    Cancer certainly changed how I look at a lot of things. Losing weight and getting healthier has also made things look brighter and clearer for me. I have a better chance of keeping cancer at bay by losing weight and exercising, which is exactly what I am doing.
     
    For those of us who have had breast cancer, for anyone who knows someone who has or had breast cancer and for those of us who struggle everyday with weight, I am here to say there is hope. I am a survivor. I will succeed and I will continue fighting until I have reached my goal.
     
    I hope you all have a great evening.
  16. Bklynike
    Hi, Everyone:
     
    I just got a very interesting question from a fellow bandster regarding my first fill last Thurs. So, I will put the question out to everyone.
     
    I was asked what I was eating since my fill, or more specifically if since my fill was I eating differently.
     
    My answer to this question is yes, I appear to be eating a little less than I was before - probably about as much as when I first got banded. But, I am not feeling "restricted" like other bandsters talk about. I eat very slowly and when I am no longer hungry, I stop eating. I have been consistently losing weight. I wish it was 5lbs a week, but it is always around a lb or more.
     
    I postponed 4 times and then I decided to get my fill because I was a little hungry between meals. I have not been sick, I have not gotten anything stuck, no belching, no sliming, no stuffed feeling. I got 1cc added to my band, and that was it.
     
    I am scheduled for another fill later this month, but I don't know if I need it. But again, I don't have a clue what a "restriction" feels like.
     
    What are you feeling?
  17. Bklynike

    New Green Shirt Photo

    By Bklynike,

    Hi, fellow bandsters:
     
    It is the 2nd of October and you know what that means? It means it is time for the new green shirt photo. As you can see, I also changed my Avatar.
     
    My husband takes the pictures and then he sizes them for me. I kept asking him to go from one picture to the past picture because I couldn't believe how many changes there were. I am really doing it!
     
    I would be so happy if I could say every week I lost 5 lbs. Unfortunately, that isn't the case. But I am consistently losing - about a pound or so a week. I really thought it would be more, but it took many years to put the weight on, so it is going to take a while to take it off.
     
    Monday will start week 15 and I've lost around 35 lbs since my surgery. I've had 1 fill so far, last Thurs, but I really don't think I need another one. I am able to eat anything without getting sick, and I stop when I start to feel the hunger go away. I am working out religiously and I really do feel amazing. When I saw the pictures tonight, I really started feeling better about myself and how I look.
     
    Please check our my new green shirt photo and let me know what you think of my new pictures.
     
    Have a great weekend everyone.
  18. Bklynike
    I always write down my Sunday weight. I weigh myself each time I go to the gym, 3-4 times a week, but only log in my Sunday weight in my book. I think once a week is a good representation.
     
    Last Sunday I had a week's loss of 4.6 lbs. Today the scale showed me a loss of 8/10's of a lb. My first fill was this past Thurs, so I am very curious to see what I will weigh next Sunday.
     
    I know I am doing everything within my power to reach my goal, and I will make it. I work out like a maniac - call me crazy but I really do enjoy it. A good workout with lots of sweat makes me feel energized and motivated to do more. I eat all the right things. I can't believe that I, the queen of carbs, gave up pasta, potatoes and bread. But my doctor said that by doing so, I would eventually make my goal, so I am doing it.
     
    Do I prefer the 4 lbs loss to the tenths of a lb. you bet your bippy. But my husband reminded me that we learned by watching The Biggest Loser, you cannot and will not have a big loss every week. So, I say next week will be better. My fill is just a few days old, so I have to give myself a chance to catch up to it.
     
    I was 216.6 today. I can't wait until I am out of the 200s, but I am only taking 10 lbs at a time, so I am looking forward to getting below 210.
     
    The scale can be your friend, but it can also make you doubt that you are doing everything and anything you can to get to your goal.
     
    I cannot allow myself to get discouraged when the numbers are not what I am hoping them to be, or if I don't feel they are going down fast enough - But I will not let anything stand in my way.
     
    Have a great Sunday everyone.:smile:
  19. Bklynike

    Scared?

    By Bklynike,

    I just received a message from a soon-to-be bandster and she mentioned she was scared of the surgery. I thought it was important to mention that even if you are scared of the surgery, it is scarier to go through life without it.
     
    I never mentioned, but I was not heavy all of my life. 22 years ago, just before marrying the man of my dreams, I had an accident at work. I was a Code Enforcement Officer and was removing an illegal sign that was nailed to a tree. The sign was very high up and I lifted my arms, pulling the sign side-to-side until the nails came out and the sign came down. The sign was extremely heavy and when it came down, it bent me in half. I rolled the sign over, end over end, and put it into my car. When I started to get out of the car, I could barely move. It turns out I hurniated 2 disks - one in my neck and one in my lower back. I also caused some nerve damage in my neck. The pain was and still is remarkable.
     
    I went to several doctors who said I should stop going to the gym and not lift anything heavier than a loaf of bread. That surgery would be my best option, which I opted not to have.
     
    Believe it or not, but I wore a size 3/4 to my wedding, that needed to be taken in.
     
    Sitting around, doing absolutely nothing caused me to start gaining weight. Then I quit smoking, which added about 45 lbs to my already growing mass. I became very depressed and ate myself into oblivion. I was not allowed to exercise, which did me a huge disservice. So even back then I knew exercise would help me, but I listened to the doctors and kept growing and growing to a size 26. And of course all of the co-morbidities jumped on board for the ride and it became difficult to walk.
     
    Well, I am on my way to a healthier, better life. I still have neck and back pain, but I push through them. I work out like an animal at the gym becuase I see how much better I am doing with this small weight loss and I can't wait until I lose all I need to lose. 35 lbs since my surgery, 14 prior to surgery and about 70 lbs to go. So trust me when I tell you I will get there. I am down to a size 18 pant and an XL top. People are really taking notice of my loss and telling me how good I look. I can't tell you how good that makes me feel.
     
    I am already looking forward to my October picture in my green shirt!
     
    Have a great night everyone.
  20. Bklynike

    keeps getting better

    By Bklynike,

    Happy Sunday Everyone.
     
    If any of you have read my blogs before, you know that I love reporting good news. It makes me feel good to tell people how much I love my lap-band because it was the best thing I ever did for myself. I want to make sure that anyone who was a yo-yo dieter like I was knows there is help out there. For anyone who would lose 25 or 30 lbs and hit that wall - no matter how much you tried to lose more and couldn't like I did - it is possible to get help. I would hit that plateau and that would be it. After weeks of trying, I would get frustrated and return to my old friends - french fries, pasta, potatoes, bread, etc. So not only did I gain back the original loss, I would add a few more lbs to the mix. Which I have to say made me feel so much better about myself - NOT! And lets remember all of the co-morbidities that came along with getter bigger, fatter and less healthy.:thumbup:
     
    I know the lap band is just a tool. I knew that going in. My surgeon was very clear about that. It is not a magic pill that you take and wake up in the morning 100 lbs lighter than when you went to sleep. I knew my fairy godmother/father wasn't going to swoop down and remove the fat from my body with a mystical wand. It is work, hard work. But if you really want to get thinner, healthier and feel better about yourself and you are thinking about having the lap-band stop thinking and do it.
     
    The band has helped with my food in take. The gym and 3 wonderful trainers have helped with my exercise program - cardio and weight lifting. When you put these together with my will to succeed and the encouragement from friends, family and especally my wonderful husband, you get success.
     
    On June 21st of this year, my re-birth, I weighed 253.6. I was up to 268 at my heaviest. I know there are people out there reading this who have lost more weight than I have and some who have lost less weight than I have. But I know I am doing it the right way for me. Slowly and steadily and I am loving the new me. I just returned from the gym and wanted to report that I am now down to 217.4 lbs.:thumbup: I am looking forward to losing the next 10 lbs and then reaching the Onederland! I have no doubt I will do it. I am on track. I know what I have to do and I am doing it will all of the vim and vigor I can muster.
     
    Enjoy the rest of your day everyone - I wish each and every one of you are as happy as I am with the choice we made to have this wonderful surgery.
  21. Bklynike

    Great Day!

    By Bklynike,

    Today was a terrific day. :cool2:
     
    I called in sick, so I didn't go to work today. That in itself made my day wonderful. I got to spend it with my husband and did some "me" things - I went shopping.
     
    People have been telling me it is time to get some smaller clothes, so I purchased some 2X tops a few weeks ago, that are too big on me now. I tried both Lane Bryant and The Avenue for pants with no success.:bored: I was between sizes and nothing fit right. I was kind of dissapointed, but did not allow it to make me get upset. I knew that in a week or two, I would fit into something.
     
    Well, today I purchased 2 pairs of pants at JC Penney - a pair of jeans and a dress pair of pants. Both were a size 18.:laugh: I haven't been in a size 18 in many, many years. I was so excited. They are a trouser fit because the regular fit jeans or skinny jeans are still too tight in my thighs. Also, I bought a few size AXL tops. Wow, what a great feeling to not only get into things, but they actually fit. I don't look like a sausage.
     
    Then this afternoon I went for my first fill. I can't believe how well that went. There was absolutely NO PAIN involved. Yes, you feel the needle but no more painful than getting a blood test and I would say actually less uncomfortable than that. I got 1cc and was told to come back in a month, but if I needed more to go in whenever I needed to. I asked why only 1cc and I was told that since I have been doing so well since my surgery and not really feeling hunger or over eating, although I can eat more than I was eating a couple of weeks ago, she wanted to start small. I drank some water after the fill, no problems, and I went on my merry way. Everyone in the office was very complimentary on how I am looking, so that made me feel really good too.
     
    And to make things even better, my husband, who is a writer, was asked to write a column in a magazine he has been reading and collecting since he was a young man. He is also on cloud 9 today.
     
    I hope you are all having a great day, too.:thumbup:
  22. Bklynike

    First Fill Here I Come!

    By Bklynike,

    First the really good news. My mammogram and ultrasound last week were perfect! I saw my oncologist on Friday and she said all was well. She was very excited about my weight loss - 25lbs since my last visit. On Saturday my husband and I both had a colonoscopy. All clear at "that end" as well.
     
    If you have ever had a colonoscopy you know the drill. Eat breakfast before 10:00 am the day before your test. The rest of the day is only clear liquids and you will either take the pills, which we did, or you drink some awful drink and spend the night in the bathroom.
     
    So I got home from work on Friday at 3:45 to start the intake of 32 pills, which started at 4:00. You take 4 pills and then every 15 minutes until 20 pills have been swallowed. Then at 7:00 you take 4 pills every 15 minutes until you complete taking the final 12 pills. And of course, no breakfast.
     
    On Sat morning, we got picked up by a car service and taken to the facility for the test and then we got driven home. All in all it was a good experience.
     
    So, I didn't eat anything for an entire day and when I stepped on the scale today at the gym I expected I lost a pound or more. Last week I lost 8/10s of a pound and lost the exact same amount - 8/10s of a lb. -today. Wow, I was kind of surprised, but as I always say a loss is a loss no matter how small.
     
    I think it convninced me that it is time for my first fill, which is scheduled for Thurs. I will speak with my doctor, or his assistant, to get their opinion. But I believe that after 2 weeks of such a small loss either means I need the fill or I am at a plateau. In either case, I need to depend on the lap band for help this time. I was losing 3-4 lbs at a time. 2 weeks ago I lost 5lbs and then 8/10 for the last 2 weeks.
     
    I am still in love with the gym. Even more so now that I have added 3 additional weight training machines. So, I am working out hard, although I didn't go on Friday because of the colonoscopy medication, but went right back today.
     
    I hope you are all doing well and enjoying your weekend. Back to the grind tomorrow!
  23. Bklynike

    Chicken Parmesian Recipe

    By Bklynike,

    I wrote a little while ago that because my doctor does not want me to eat real bread crumbs my new nutritionist gave me a great idea for coating fish and chicken .
     
    Well, we finally tried the coating on one of our favorite dishes, chicken parmesian, and it was great and very healthy. Here is what we did.
     
    Ingredients:
    1 small can cashews
    1 small can roasted almonds
    2 packages of skinless/boneless chicken (about 5 pieces per package)
    2/3 cup All Whites egg substitute
    Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Parsley to taste
    Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
    Tomato Sauce (fresh made, jar or can)
    Grated parmesian cheese optional
    Baking pan - sprayed with Pam or any non-stick coating

    We emptied both cans of nuts into our food processor and pulverized them into a fine "bread crumb" texture. Pour some onto a large plate and repeat as necessary.

    In a separate bowl, mix the egg substitute, garlic and onion powder and parsley in a bowl.

    Rinse your chicken and then dredge the chicken through the egg mixture and into the nuts to coat both sides then place in prepared baking pan. I found I had to press the coating onto the chicken to have it stick better.

    Heat oven to 400 degrees. Cook the chicken for 30 minutes. I did not turn the chicken over during cooking. When the 30 minutes are up, put 1-2 tablespoon of sauce on each piece of chicken, depending on size of the piece, and top with some of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Put the chicken back into the oven and cook another 10 minutes allowing the cheese to melt.

    I served the chicken with steamed veggies and it was delicious.

    Please remember, all ovens cook at different temps, so make sure your chicken is cooked all the way through before you eat it.

    If you don't like cashews or roasted almonds, substitute any other type of nuts. I prefer the egg substitute to real eggs, but if you don't like the egg substitute, use 2 real eggs.

    I made 2 packages because I like to keep prepared food in the freezer so I can grab one on my way to work. I had one piece of chicken for dinner, my husband had 2 pieces. That left me enough for us to have a 2nd dinner and some lunches.

    We have not tried this topping on fish yet, but it was so good I am sure we will do so in the very near future.

    Enjoy! :wink:
  24. Bklynike

    New Photo

    By Bklynike,

    For anyone who might be interested, my new green shirt photo has been posted to my album. I am surprised by the difference I see in myself. I hope to get some feedback:smile:. I am pretty darn proud of myself.
     
    I was at the gym tonight and worked with out with my trainer, Albert. What a great guy. We worked out in the weight side of the gym. I used a straight bar with 20 lbs, and 2 new machines that I really liked. Before leaving I weighed myself and I was 222.8. I cannot wait to hit 219! Then I will work on the next 10 lb loss. Everyday is getting better!
     
    Enjoy the pic and have a great evening.
  25. Bklynike

    Thank Goodness

    By Bklynike,

    I had my mammogram and ultrasound today and luckily I am fine - still cancer free! I am so excited and thankful that the testing is done and I got my test results immediately following the tests. I see my oncologist on Friday, but with these 2 tests behind me, I know everything will be fine.
     
    I had my husband take my green shirt Sept pictures on Sunday, but we just got a new computer and he hasn't up-loaded Photoshop yet, so I am hoping to upload my new pic by the end of the week.
     
    Last week I lost a total of 5lbs. This week I lost 8/10s of a lb. It was my first week without a 3 or 4 lb loss, so I was a little disappointed. But a loss is a loss, so I won't be a baby - I have taken my big-girl pill and I hope this week will be better.
     
    My first fill is scheduled for next week. This is now the 4th time I have been scheduled for my 1st fill - perhaps this time I need it. I only log my Sunday weight, so depending on what happens this Sunday will determine whether or not I am ready for the fill. I am still not hungry between meals, I am not eating anything more than I should and I feel really good. I would love to say I've lost 40 or 50 lbs since my surgery, but I truly believe slow and steady will win this battle.
     
    I started this journey at 268lbs back in January at the time of my cancer/mastectomy. When I had my LB surgery on 6/21/10 I was down to 251lbs. This past Sunday I weighed in at 223lbs. There are many people who have lost a lot more than me at this point of their journey and those who have lost less. There is no comparing to be made. Everyone loses at a different rate. I have never and I mean never been able to lose more than 25lbs on any diet, except one time on Atkins when I lost 40, but had gained every single lb back and more. I truly believe this time I am winning the battle.
     
    I love the gym, I love the cardio and weight training, I love my new way of eating and I especially love the way I look and feel. I know this new lifestyle is my lifestyel, for the rest of my life - being healthier and getting smaller will extend my life and the exercise will help me feel better, move better and I love it.:smile:
     
    Good luck to everyone and please check back to see my new photos in a couple of days.

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