This is a really long story, but i will try to make it short.

My Mom went in the hospital and died back in Dec. My Dad lives next door to me and I have totally had to take him under my wing. Let's just say the stress has been tremendous. Back in (I think) Jan. I wasn't too tight, but the stress would cause me to get really tight and PB all the time. I knew it was a bad thing, but it kept happening. I had a slight fill done about a month ago because I haven't lost any weight recently. I still find myself throwing up if I get the slightest pressure because it's so easy to do and makes me feel better instantly. I KNOW it's wrong, and I know I can make my band slip, but for some reason I keep doing it. I will eat too fast or drink something too soon and up it comes. I finally came to terms with the fact that this is an awful lot like what bulimics do. I am scared. I go for a barium swallow to make sure everything is ok in a few weeks, but I need a good kick in the butt. Please don't make me feel any worse than I already do, but any advice would be appreciated. It took alot to come here and admit this.

Michele

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Michele,

I'm so sorry for your loss and the stress you've been under. I know the exact temptation you feel (i.e. to make it feel better by throwing up). I find that if I get in that cycle, going back to liquids for about 3 days to let things settle down really helps. Then, when I move back to mushies, then solids, my stoma isn't irritated at all and I can tolerate solids perfectly. I really have to give it a full 3 days for things to settle down, but it really works.

Good luck to you.

HI there;

So, so sorry for your loss. I can totally relate to what you are going through, with the loss only mine was my dad, and taking care of the other parent. The stress alone of situations like this can be mind boggling and we don't know what its like until we walk the walk. I have had the bulimic reaction to stress in the past and its not so easy to conquer sometimes. I think you need to take a little time for you. Relax, take a day off of "Dadsitting" (not to be rude) and look after you. We are givers, you and I, I am the exact same way and I tend to look after others before I look after me. Its time to look after you. Relax, get back on track, go for a run, if thats your thing, or do something to make yourself happy. You deserve it, when you find that you are relaxed and regenerated you will be back on track in no time. Good luck in the next day or two and keep us up to date. I have been here...I am happy to try to help.

POPT

Tracey