I received my third fill two and a half weeks ago that was 2.2 CCs. Im not sure exactly where that brings my total for my band, but something just isnt right. I think I am TOO full right now. It took me week and a half or so to get off liquids and tolerate mushies....and then another 3-4 days before I could tolerate solids. Even so, I am still having a hard time with them. I find myself reverting back to soups and shakes as opposed to "real" foods. I am almost scared to try solid foods because of the pain and the possibility of throwing up.
The pain is a strange kind of pain. It feels as though I have a golf ball stuck in my esophogus lodged between my breasts. The food doesn't even seem to make it beyond that point. I can even feel it slowly progressing downward as it attempts to pass. It doesnt quite feel like choking, however prolonged time like this causes it to become uncomfortable and hard to breathe, which in turn has me running to the bathroom to throw up whatever is stuck. The biggest culprits seem to be bread of any kind (sliced, tortillas, pita etc) and meat. After the food has passed or been thrown up it literally feels as though my esophogus is bruised. It is painful to eat or drink anything and I just feel tired. Eating has become an ordeal that I don't want to do. It's easier just to drink my food then to attempt to chew anything and have it get stuck!
I thought things were getting better, I hadn't thrown up in a few days after a meal and was venturing into solids a bit more but then it all came back last night as I was driving home with Jake. I had stopped on our way back from Williamsburg to get him some dinner at Wendy's and decided to attempt one of his chicken nuggets. At first it was fine, nothing was getting stuck, it seemed like I was going to be able to eat the whole thing. Ummm not so much. All at once I couldnt breathe and the urge to get rid of the food in my throat was overwhelming. I had barely pulled over on the side of I-64 then it all came back up. It was scary to think that it happened whie I was driving. What could have happened if I didn't pull over in time? Why did it seem like everything was okay then out of nowhere it intensified to the point of extreme?
Then tonight as I was eating some chicken and refried beans at my fav. mexican place. I barely had anything at all.... Maybe 2-3 bites of beans and 1-2 bites of chicken and I couldnt bear it. I almost didnt make it to the bathroom in time before it all came back up. I am remembering to cut into small pieces and the bites that I am taking are what you would give an infant just starting on solids. I am not drinking in between bites, nor am I rushing. I am very aware of taking my time because for a few days I thought that was the only reason this was happening. Now I take extra time.
I am afraid for several reasons. I am scared of what will happen if I can't make it when food has to come up. Im scared because I dont feel I am getting adequate nutrition right now. I am scared that I am throwing up too much and will damage my throat permanantly as well as mess with the enamel on my teeth. I am losing weight, but at what cost!? I would rather keep a pound or two than do this every time I eat.
I am going to talk to the surgeon about an adjustment but dont know when it will happen. Schedules are so tight right now with work and the fact he only does them one day a week I don't know when it'll happen. I guess for now though, its back to soups, shakes and jell-o.
oh and for those that want an update on weight lost: As of this morning Im down 52 lbs!
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Updates all around....
Its been a long time and I have a lot to write about with this entry.
Lets start with what most of you are wondering----the total weight loss....or in my case lately the weight GAIN! Yes, you read the correctly, I have actually gained some weight back lately and I am not happy. At the present time I have gained back 6 lbs. I am eating a bit more but I am trying to watch my carb counts and sugar. I am still making sure to get my 90-100 grams of protein each day. One of the things that I have been doing that may account for the weight gain is swimming. I have been swimming at least 3-4 days week for 30-45 minutes at a time. I am hoping that I am actually gaining muscle--which I know weighs more than fat. I have not noticed a change in how my clothes fit or anything like that which makes me think more and more that its muscle and not gaining back fat.
Another thing that I am noticing more and more is that when I sit for long periods of time the area around my port begins to hurt. Its very uncomfortable and I realize that I need to move around a bit more during work instead of sitting for long periods of time. Working as a teacher helps me with that but there are times like when Im testing kids that I sit for an hour or so at a time and it is really noticeable. Stretching helps, but only so much. When it gets to the point that its aching its hard to get rid of the pain. It has to ease on its own. Its not fun but its something Im dealing with.
Lastly and this is an awesome revelation. I have been using Miderma gel on my scars every day or so and I have already noticed a change. The dark pink/purple areas of the scars are lightening and its only been about 4-6 weeks. Of course I didnt take any "before" pictures. But I plan on taking one soon and then noting the changes over the coming months as well.
Thanks everyone for staying on me and not letting me completely give up this blog. I get several emails a week asking me what the deal is. Sometimes I let life take over and completely consume me. Im trying to get better at this blogging stuff---
Lets start with what most of you are wondering----the total weight loss....or in my case lately the weight GAIN! Yes, you read the correctly, I have actually gained some weight back lately and I am not happy. At the present time I have gained back 6 lbs. I am eating a bit more but I am trying to watch my carb counts and sugar. I am still making sure to get my 90-100 grams of protein each day. One of the things that I have been doing that may account for the weight gain is swimming. I have been swimming at least 3-4 days week for 30-45 minutes at a time. I am hoping that I am actually gaining muscle--which I know weighs more than fat. I have not noticed a change in how my clothes fit or anything like that which makes me think more and more that its muscle and not gaining back fat.
Another thing that I am noticing more and more is that when I sit for long periods of time the area around my port begins to hurt. Its very uncomfortable and I realize that I need to move around a bit more during work instead of sitting for long periods of time. Working as a teacher helps me with that but there are times like when Im testing kids that I sit for an hour or so at a time and it is really noticeable. Stretching helps, but only so much. When it gets to the point that its aching its hard to get rid of the pain. It has to ease on its own. Its not fun but its something Im dealing with.
Lastly and this is an awesome revelation. I have been using Miderma gel on my scars every day or so and I have already noticed a change. The dark pink/purple areas of the scars are lightening and its only been about 4-6 weeks. Of course I didnt take any "before" pictures. But I plan on taking one soon and then noting the changes over the coming months as well.
Thanks everyone for staying on me and not letting me completely give up this blog. I get several emails a week asking me what the deal is. Sometimes I let life take over and completely consume me. Im trying to get better at this blogging stuff---
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
finally reached the big 4-0
Okay so Im not turning 40 quite yet, however I did reach a HUGE milestone in my weight loss journey. 40 lbs of fat finally off of my body.....Its amazing to find what a difference it can make in the amount of energy I have. I have been spending my days staying motivated and energized! I recently took on the battle of remodeling 2 of our bathrooms---the wallpaper may have won the battle but I have won the war!!
Okay so back to the weight loss. I am not keeping up with the gym like I should be, but am finding other ways to exercise. Scraping wallpaper for 3-4 hours a day is a start! However, I am trying to do other things like housework, moving furniture, walking around the neighborhood, and the Wii Fit!
I am still not really noticing much of a difference in clothes other than they fit a little bit better. There are always new things that I can wear out of my closet---or almost wear once I lose a little bit more--but then there are also things that are nowhere near ready to fit onto me.
All in all Im still on my way and doing fine! 10 more pounds to go to make my summer goal of a total of 50 lbs down by the time school goes back in session after Labor Day! Im going to stick with this and hopefully make it!
Okay so back to the weight loss. I am not keeping up with the gym like I should be, but am finding other ways to exercise. Scraping wallpaper for 3-4 hours a day is a start! However, I am trying to do other things like housework, moving furniture, walking around the neighborhood, and the Wii Fit!
I am still not really noticing much of a difference in clothes other than they fit a little bit better. There are always new things that I can wear out of my closet---or almost wear once I lose a little bit more--but then there are also things that are nowhere near ready to fit onto me.
All in all Im still on my way and doing fine! 10 more pounds to go to make my summer goal of a total of 50 lbs down by the time school goes back in session after Labor Day! Im going to stick with this and hopefully make it!
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
MMmmm YUM! Another recipe post!
So I have been trying to come up with some super yummy recipes to post on here but have pretty much been eating protein shakes, chicken noodle soup, and egg beaters for the past week. Not so healthy, but between the fill and having 2 cavities filled, my poor body couldnt take much more!
Tonight though, I knew I wanted to cook. I had some spinach and cheese filled tortellini in the fridge that I needed to use so I decided to create! My friend Anna had asked me to pick some stuff up at the store for her---one thing of which was polish keilbasa.... Hmmmmm I haven't had keilbasa in forever! I started searching the web and came up with the following recipe:
SUPER YUMMY and not too hard to make at all!!!
I did change it a bit. Instead of peppers (since I was out) I added fresh zuchinni instead. Then I used sundried tomato alfredo instead of plain. I know this alters the nutrition information a bit but probably not a ton!
It is super delish---even Jake is eating it! Bon apetit!
Kielbasa Tortellini Alfredo
SERVINGS: 4
TIME: Prep/Total Time: 20 min.
Ingredients:
1 package (9 ounces) refrigerated cheese or spinach tortellini
1/2 pound smoked kielbasa or Polish sausage, sliced
1 medium sweet red pepper, julienned
2 teaspoons canola oil
1 jar (16 ounces) Alfredo sauce
1 cup chopped tomato
Directions: Cook tortellini according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, saute the kielbasa and red pepper in oil for 3 minutes or until pepper is crisp-tender. Drain tortellini. Stir tortellini and Alfredo sauce into skillet; heat through. Garnish with tomato. Yield: 4 servings.
Nutrition Facts
One serving: (1-1/4 cups)
Calories: 572
Fat: 35 g
Sodium: 1301 mg
Carbohydrate: 43 g
Fiber: 4 g
Protein: 22 g
Tonight though, I knew I wanted to cook. I had some spinach and cheese filled tortellini in the fridge that I needed to use so I decided to create! My friend Anna had asked me to pick some stuff up at the store for her---one thing of which was polish keilbasa.... Hmmmmm I haven't had keilbasa in forever! I started searching the web and came up with the following recipe:
SUPER YUMMY and not too hard to make at all!!!
I did change it a bit. Instead of peppers (since I was out) I added fresh zuchinni instead. Then I used sundried tomato alfredo instead of plain. I know this alters the nutrition information a bit but probably not a ton!
It is super delish---even Jake is eating it! Bon apetit!
Kielbasa Tortellini Alfredo
SERVINGS: 4
TIME: Prep/Total Time: 20 min.
Ingredients:
1 package (9 ounces) refrigerated cheese or spinach tortellini
1/2 pound smoked kielbasa or Polish sausage, sliced
1 medium sweet red pepper, julienned
2 teaspoons canola oil
1 jar (16 ounces) Alfredo sauce
1 cup chopped tomato
Directions: Cook tortellini according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, saute the kielbasa and red pepper in oil for 3 minutes or until pepper is crisp-tender. Drain tortellini. Stir tortellini and Alfredo sauce into skillet; heat through. Garnish with tomato. Yield: 4 servings.
Nutrition Facts
One serving: (1-1/4 cups)
Calories: 572
Fat: 35 g
Sodium: 1301 mg
Carbohydrate: 43 g
Fiber: 4 g
Protein: 22 g
Saturday, July 25, 2009
OMG I can FIT!
Many of you that know me personally know that one goal I wanted to achieve with my weight loss was the ability to use the Wii FIT my mother in law bought for us last Christmas. I have watched my husband do awesome things with his own weight loss journey using it as well as friends that that have come over to try it out and play around with it. Well, every time I would step on it was like it was openly mocking me---telling me I exceeded its 330 lb weight limit. It was pretty much a slap in the face each time I tried.
When I went to the nutritionist Thursday my weight was at 331 lbs----1 stinkin pound from being able to do it!! I was so upset. Finally I put my big girl panties on and decided that I was going try on more time. I went upstairs and started the program. The whole time I was thinking to myself its just going to kick me off again. As I stepped on the board, I heard the familiar groan as though it was an inconvenience I was using it---but then, instead of telling me I was too fat it let me in! I was no longer too fat for the program--actually I weighed in a 229.1 lbs!!
I went ahead and set my goals for the next two weeks, completed my body test, my balance tests and even tried some aerobics games and yoga. It was so much fun! My center of balance is almost perfect and my Wii age is 27--my current age! I may be fat but Im not out of shape or in as bad of health as I thought!!
So the first two goals I have set for myself have been met.
1. Lose 30 lbs before vacation ----(I actually lost 31)
2. Lose 36 lbs to Wii Fit -----(Im down 37)
New goals:
1. Be able to Fit for a minimum of 30 minutes without stopping
2. Lose a minimum of 4 lbs every two weeks by the time school starts (for a total of 12 lbs)
3. To go to the gym at least 3 days a week aside from the Wii Fit
4. To try new high protein/low carb recipes at least once a week
To make myself more accountable AND to make sure I am blogging more I will be posting my new recipes here for others to enjoy and to let you know what I liked/disliked about them. Also, I will be posting weekly weigh-ins and progress according to the FIT.
Vacation time is over---its time to get serious!
When I went to the nutritionist Thursday my weight was at 331 lbs----1 stinkin pound from being able to do it!! I was so upset. Finally I put my big girl panties on and decided that I was going try on more time. I went upstairs and started the program. The whole time I was thinking to myself its just going to kick me off again. As I stepped on the board, I heard the familiar groan as though it was an inconvenience I was using it---but then, instead of telling me I was too fat it let me in! I was no longer too fat for the program--actually I weighed in a 229.1 lbs!!
I went ahead and set my goals for the next two weeks, completed my body test, my balance tests and even tried some aerobics games and yoga. It was so much fun! My center of balance is almost perfect and my Wii age is 27--my current age! I may be fat but Im not out of shape or in as bad of health as I thought!!
So the first two goals I have set for myself have been met.
1. Lose 30 lbs before vacation ----(I actually lost 31)
2. Lose 36 lbs to Wii Fit -----(Im down 37)
New goals:
1. Be able to Fit for a minimum of 30 minutes without stopping
2. Lose a minimum of 4 lbs every two weeks by the time school starts (for a total of 12 lbs)
3. To go to the gym at least 3 days a week aside from the Wii Fit
4. To try new high protein/low carb recipes at least once a week
To make myself more accountable AND to make sure I am blogging more I will be posting my new recipes here for others to enjoy and to let you know what I liked/disliked about them. Also, I will be posting weekly weigh-ins and progress according to the FIT.
Vacation time is over---its time to get serious!
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Vacation doesn't always do a body good!
So as many of you know I have been on vacation for the past 4 weeks bouncing between Florida and Texas and back again. Its been a whirldwind to say the least. I have enjoyed it, however I haven't been watching my food as closely as I should have.
I had an appointment yesterday for my 2nd fill which yielded unhappy results. I had only lost about 3lbs since leaving for vaca. I was really hoping for a 5-7lb loss, however I have nobody to blame but myself. I indulged in so many things like fab mexican food, ben and jerry's, and italian food full of carbs! I didnt watch my portions as much as I should have either. My one saving grace I think is that I tried to stay as active as possible--walking most nights or playing in the pool or at the beach with Jake.
My current weight stands at 331 lbs. I am down 35 lbs total at this point---but still 1 lb away from being able to Wii fit! Im hoping that by the end of next week I'll have lost that pound and will be able to start Wii'ing :)
All in all, like I said it was fun--however it was my first major temptation. I feel as though I didn't do as bad as I could have HOWEVER I certainly didn't do nearly as well as I should have. Thanks to Cassie (my nutritionist) who I saw today I've realized that today is a new day. I am back home and on my own schedule.
All I have to do is get back up on the horse and start again.
I had an appointment yesterday for my 2nd fill which yielded unhappy results. I had only lost about 3lbs since leaving for vaca. I was really hoping for a 5-7lb loss, however I have nobody to blame but myself. I indulged in so many things like fab mexican food, ben and jerry's, and italian food full of carbs! I didnt watch my portions as much as I should have either. My one saving grace I think is that I tried to stay as active as possible--walking most nights or playing in the pool or at the beach with Jake.
My current weight stands at 331 lbs. I am down 35 lbs total at this point---but still 1 lb away from being able to Wii fit! Im hoping that by the end of next week I'll have lost that pound and will be able to start Wii'ing :)
All in all, like I said it was fun--however it was my first major temptation. I feel as though I didn't do as bad as I could have HOWEVER I certainly didn't do nearly as well as I should have. Thanks to Cassie (my nutritionist) who I saw today I've realized that today is a new day. I am back home and on my own schedule.
All I have to do is get back up on the horse and start again.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Disney in June
What was I thinking?!?! OMG it was so stinkin hot! I was so thankful that I had dropped 30+ lbs because I couldnt imagine trying to fit my big butt on those rides, but also walking around with that excess weight in 100+ degree heat.
All in all it was a great trip. Disney was FABULOUS when it came to my surgery. So long as I carried my surgeon's card, I was able to order child sized portions with NO issues. I was even able to use it when we went to the Character Dinner which is a buffet!!! Granted I didn't eat a lot, but still--Disney didn't have to do that. I was so thankful to them for accomodating my needs. Everyday I took a cooler type bag full of jello, string cheese, peanut butter and other foods that I could eat into the parks and not once did anyone say anything to me about it. I know that the food that is sold makes up a lot of the revenue for them, but if anything Disney was open and inviting for us to bring in our own foods.
I will admit I didn't stick to my diet as much as I should and we ate out more than we should but I dont think I gained any weight back. I am not able to get on a scale while in FL because the one at my parent's house only goes up to 300 lbs. I hate to have to admit that but such is life......
The last thing that was a lot of fun was that Greg and I got to go play golf on the Magnolia Course while at Disney--- it was gorgeous and so much fun. This was my first full 18 holes of golf and I did really well (or so I think). I did not count my water hazards twice (only once) so I shot a 112. Greg better watch out because with some practice I think I might be able to beat him ---but shhhh! dont tell him I said that!!!
So my consensus for vacationing at Disney is this:
1---AWESOME for weight loss patients when it comes to food being taken in the park or ordering child portions
1---AWESOME for weight loss patients when it comes to food being taken in the park or ordering child portions
2---NOT awesome to go during June (or July or August while we're at it!)
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Picture Time!!!
Okay so I know I've been promising more pictures so drumroll please...........................
Here are some quick snaps from a BBQ we went to this afternoon where I am wearing a friends summer dress after I had an unfortunate accident with a wet patio chair..... Oh and yes it is 2 sizes smaller than what I was wearing 7 weeks ago!!!
Enjoy because I know I am!
Enjoy because I know I am!
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Just call me Chewie!
One of the biggest and hardest adjustments I have had to make is recognizing when a bite is too big, and that I have to REALLY chew my food well. A lot of the issues people have with food could be easily fixed if they just took smaller bites, didn't rush, and actually CHEWED their food!
Tonight, Greg brought me home something I've been craving ALL DAY! A Subway seafood and crab sub on wheat bread. Well for those that know me, veggies and I dont see eye to eye on most days so it was a plain sandwich. Seeing as how Im watching carbs now, I took out my handy dandy kid sized fork and went to town scooping out the crabby goodness from inside the bread. About halfway through I could feel myself getting more and more bored with taking small bites and then chewing chewing chewing it into oblivion before swallowing.
HOLD THE PHONE! Did I just say I was bored?? While eating?? Seriously, who would've thought that by doing what I was supposed to do I would not only feel full FASTER, but I would get bored with the whole process altogether?!!??! You would think people with ADHD would be super skinny, alas even people with neurodisorders cant catch a break losing weight!
Either way, the lesson for the day people is that if you SLOW down, take smaller bites and actually CHEW your food you might just realize that not only are you full off of less food, but you might actually get bored with what youre doing!
Okay that was just a fun observation for today :)
Tonight, Greg brought me home something I've been craving ALL DAY! A Subway seafood and crab sub on wheat bread. Well for those that know me, veggies and I dont see eye to eye on most days so it was a plain sandwich. Seeing as how Im watching carbs now, I took out my handy dandy kid sized fork and went to town scooping out the crabby goodness from inside the bread. About halfway through I could feel myself getting more and more bored with taking small bites and then chewing chewing chewing it into oblivion before swallowing.
HOLD THE PHONE! Did I just say I was bored?? While eating?? Seriously, who would've thought that by doing what I was supposed to do I would not only feel full FASTER, but I would get bored with the whole process altogether?!!??! You would think people with ADHD would be super skinny, alas even people with neurodisorders cant catch a break losing weight!
Either way, the lesson for the day people is that if you SLOW down, take smaller bites and actually CHEW your food you might just realize that not only are you full off of less food, but you might actually get bored with what youre doing!
Okay that was just a fun observation for today :)
Saturday, May 23, 2009
My old friends.....
Back when I was skinnier (now THATS a relative term) I had these awesome pairs of button up levi jean shorts that I adored. Basically I was a bulk shopper---I find one that fits and I buy as many of them as I can because I know clothing companies will be jerks and discontinue the style once I find it. It's just always the way!
Anway, one of the pairs I wore so much I wore holes through the butt. I didnt let that stop me though. I still had 3 pairs of these glorious shorts. I wore them all the way up until my last month of pregnancy and then I havent been able to wear them since. Yes that has been 3 years that I haven't been able to wear them and YES they are still in my closet. Why? Because I knew one day I would be able to lose enough to wear them again---and guess what ladies and gentleman---(wait for it) THAT DAY IS TODAY!!!! I am not going to lie, they are still a little bit snug in the waist and I have a little bit of a muffin top, but thanks to baggy T-shirts I can hide it somewhat.
My goal is to lose enough between now and when I go home to Florida in 4 weeks that they wont be snug, but just right for m to wear at Disney and around the house.
I'll try and have Greg take some snaps this afternoon, but for now Im headed with him to softball practice. Who knew that a pair of shorts could signify such a happiness inside me? Its a small victory but one that I've been waiting 3 years to enjoy!
Anway, one of the pairs I wore so much I wore holes through the butt. I didnt let that stop me though. I still had 3 pairs of these glorious shorts. I wore them all the way up until my last month of pregnancy and then I havent been able to wear them since. Yes that has been 3 years that I haven't been able to wear them and YES they are still in my closet. Why? Because I knew one day I would be able to lose enough to wear them again---and guess what ladies and gentleman---(wait for it) THAT DAY IS TODAY!!!! I am not going to lie, they are still a little bit snug in the waist and I have a little bit of a muffin top, but thanks to baggy T-shirts I can hide it somewhat.
My goal is to lose enough between now and when I go home to Florida in 4 weeks that they wont be snug, but just right for m to wear at Disney and around the house.
I'll try and have Greg take some snaps this afternoon, but for now Im headed with him to softball practice. Who knew that a pair of shorts could signify such a happiness inside me? Its a small victory but one that I've been waiting 3 years to enjoy!
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
I know its been awhile.....
To my faithful followers, I know its been awhile. Honestly though I really haven't had much to report up until today. Life goes on the same as it does although I have been a bit more stressed lately due to state testing coming up next week for my students.
That aside, today was a monumental day in the life of my band. Today was my first fill day. I went to the hospital and checked in. Everything was normal and very fast moving. I didnt mind because I had to go straight back to work afterwards anyway. So they weighed me in-- (down 2 more pounds yay!) and I sat and waited for about 5 minutes.
Once I went in they did a quick Xray type deal where I could see everything happening on a screen in real time. I had to do an upper GI with the gross Barium liquid but it wasnt too bad. Before I took my first sip, Dr. C numbed the area and then stuck in the big needle. Yeah, it was big! I didnt watch him put it in, but I did feel the pressure. Thankfully NO PAIN AT ALL!! Once it was in I watched the screen as everything happened. I could see my ribs, my esophogus, the opening to my stomach-- even my band constricting just a pinch as he added the liquid. IT WAS SO STINKIN COOL!!!
All in all Dr. Clark ended up putting in 4.5 CC's for my first fill. I immediately felt restriction but not in a bad way. I am going to have to get adjusted to this restriction. I am still on liquids/mushy stuff for the next couple of days so we'll see how that works out.
All in all I am exactly 6 weeks out today. I had my first fill and I am down 26 lbs. It was a good day!
That aside, today was a monumental day in the life of my band. Today was my first fill day. I went to the hospital and checked in. Everything was normal and very fast moving. I didnt mind because I had to go straight back to work afterwards anyway. So they weighed me in-- (down 2 more pounds yay!) and I sat and waited for about 5 minutes.
Once I went in they did a quick Xray type deal where I could see everything happening on a screen in real time. I had to do an upper GI with the gross Barium liquid but it wasnt too bad. Before I took my first sip, Dr. C numbed the area and then stuck in the big needle. Yeah, it was big! I didnt watch him put it in, but I did feel the pressure. Thankfully NO PAIN AT ALL!! Once it was in I watched the screen as everything happened. I could see my ribs, my esophogus, the opening to my stomach-- even my band constricting just a pinch as he added the liquid. IT WAS SO STINKIN COOL!!!
All in all Dr. Clark ended up putting in 4.5 CC's for my first fill. I immediately felt restriction but not in a bad way. I am going to have to get adjusted to this restriction. I am still on liquids/mushy stuff for the next couple of days so we'll see how that works out.
All in all I am exactly 6 weeks out today. I had my first fill and I am down 26 lbs. It was a good day!
Monday, May 4, 2009
Houston! We have been cleared for all foods!
Went in today for my first post op nutritionist consult. It went pretty well and I even got the go ahead to start introducing back whatever foods I want (within reason--no triple layer better than sex chocolate cake)!
We discussed my daily eating habits, what type of exercise I've been comfortable with and when I think I want to take it to the next level. We talked about ways to track my calories and protein intake. She told me to keep it around 1200-1500 calories a day and 90g of protein a day. Also, that making sure I got at least 6 glasses of water was a MUST! Lately that hasn't been a problem for me. I seem to be thirsty ALL the time.
We looked at the scale--DOWN another 5lbs, however since I gained back 4 during the intro to mushies stage, it was really only a 1lb weight loss which brings me to a total of 24lbs lost in 26 days! Im averaging not quite 1lb per day. I guess I need to step it up hahaah.
Either way it was a good visit. I go in 2 more weeks for my very first fill so of course I'll make sure to document that on here as well.
We discussed my daily eating habits, what type of exercise I've been comfortable with and when I think I want to take it to the next level. We talked about ways to track my calories and protein intake. She told me to keep it around 1200-1500 calories a day and 90g of protein a day. Also, that making sure I got at least 6 glasses of water was a MUST! Lately that hasn't been a problem for me. I seem to be thirsty ALL the time.
We looked at the scale--DOWN another 5lbs, however since I gained back 4 during the intro to mushies stage, it was really only a 1lb weight loss which brings me to a total of 24lbs lost in 26 days! Im averaging not quite 1lb per day. I guess I need to step it up hahaah.
Either way it was a good visit. I go in 2 more weeks for my very first fill so of course I'll make sure to document that on here as well.
Sunday, May 3, 2009
MMMMmmmm YUM!
So along with rants and raves about my weight loss I figure I can add recipes and other things that I have been trying along the way to eat better or at least attempt to eat better. One of the things that I am able to eat was found not by me, but by my wonderful husband! He has been working to eat low carb but wanted to be able to subdue the sweet cravings when they reared their ugly heads. Upon his searching he found this site that had a DELICIOUS low carb-no sugar cheesecake recipe.
Now I know that many people don't like to have to click on links, so I have gone ahead and copied/pasted the recipe for you here: ENJOY!!!!
Now I know that many people don't like to have to click on links, so I have gone ahead and copied/pasted the recipe for you here: ENJOY!!!!
Lemon is one of the most popular cheesecake varieties. I think it's because the acid of the lemon cuts through some of the richness of the cream cheese. The key is to get "the right amount" of lemony flavor without it being sour. One trick is to use lemon zest (the yellow part of the lemon peel), which has a lot of lemon flavor and negligible carbs. I like using a microplane grater, which makes it easy to remove the zest without getting the bitter white pith beneath.
Ingredients:
Ingredients:
Crust:
1 ¼ cup almond meal
2 Tablespoons butter, melted
3 Tablespoons sugar equivalent in artificial sweetener (makes it no sugar)
2 Tablespoons butter, melted
3 Tablespoons sugar equivalent in artificial sweetener (makes it no sugar)
Filling:
1 ½ lbs (3 packages) cream cheese, room temperature
1 ¼ cups sugar equivalent in artificial sweetener (preferably liquid, see below)
1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt
4 eggs, room temperature
¼ cup lemon juice (fresh is best)
1 Tablespoon lemon zest
¼ cup heavy cream
Topping:
1 cup sour cream
Juice and zest from 1 medium lemon (about 2 Tablespoons juice and 1 Tablespoon zest)
¼ cup sugar equivalent in artificial sweetener (powdered erythritol or liquid sweetener preferred)
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ¼ cups sugar equivalent in artificial sweetener (preferably liquid, see below)
1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt
4 eggs, room temperature
¼ cup lemon juice (fresh is best)
1 Tablespoon lemon zest
¼ cup heavy cream
Topping:
1 cup sour cream
Juice and zest from 1 medium lemon (about 2 Tablespoons juice and 1 Tablespoon zest)
¼ cup sugar equivalent in artificial sweetener (powdered erythritol or liquid sweetener preferred)
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Preparation:
Heat oven to 375 F.
Prepare a springform pan. I like to put a piece of parchment paper over the bottom of the pan; no need to cut it to size, just snap it into place when you tighten the sides of the pan. Butter the sides and bottom of the pan, including parchment. Wrap the outside of the pan in heavy-duty foil to protect it from leaks.
Combine ingredients for crust. Press the mixture into the bottom of your springform pan. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until fragrant and beginning to brown. Remove from oven.
Lower oven temperature to 350 F.
Lower oven temperature to 350 F.
Gather ingredients for the filling. Beat cream cheese until fluffy. Scrape sides of bowl and beaters. (The mixture will gradually become lighter as you add in the rest of the ingredients, and the denser stuff will cling to the bowl. If you don't scrape, you won't be able to incorporate the remaining ingredients as well.)
Add sweetener, vanilla, salt, and 2 of the eggs. Beat well, scrape.
Add the other 2 eggs. Beat well, scrape.
Add lemon juice, lemon zest, and cream. Beat well, scrape, and pour filling mixture into the pan over the crust.
In another bowl, mix together ingredients for topping and set aside.
Place a baking pan large enough to hold your springform pan into the oven and fill it halfway with boiling water. Place the springform pan into the baking pan and bake for about 60 minutes (give or take 10 to 15 minutes), until the cheesecake is mostly set but is still wobbly in the middle.
Remove cheesecake from oven, spread the topping over the cheesecake, then bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Cool to room temperature (1 to 2 hours), then chill completely for several hours before serving.
Nutritional Information:
Each of 16 servings has 3 grams effective carbohydrate plus 1 gram fiber, 7 grams protein, and 295 calories.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Tropical Smoothie anyone??? Not this bandster!!!
I went in with some of my co-workers today to see about picking up a smoothie for lunch.... I am totally digging their cranberry crush 200 calorie smoothie, but there is no way on God's green Earth I could eat the entire thing in a reasonable amount of time. So, instead of wasting $3-$4 on something I couldn't eat I requested it be made and put into a child's serving. I was refused. I'm not going to lie when I told you I was shocked. How hard could it be to make LESS of something to put into a smaller cup? Its not rocket science!
I requested to talk to the manager and when she came out I repeated my request. I told her that I had recently undergone bariatric weight loss surgery which left me unable to consume more than 4-6 oz of food at a time. She told me that they were only allowed to make 3 different smoothies in kid's sizes---orange creamsicle, chocoloate peanut butter, and strawberry banana. Ummm hmmm not a good thing to give kids in general IMO but a complete NO NO for me for OBVIOUS reasons! I was completely dumbfounded! Not only did the manager hold her front about "corporate policy" she told me that they wouldnt substitute nutrisweet in the strawberry banana. She also told me she couldnt make it without the banana (just strawberry) either!
I am honestly upset that one of my favorite places to get a healthy quick lunch has been scratched off my list of places to go. It actually infuriates me to know that a business is not willing to be flexible to accomodate a customer's request---espeically one as SIMPLE as making a smaller portion to accomodate a dietary restriction.
So to all the bandsters out there----dont waste your time going to Tropical Smoothie, they wont do anything to help aid your weightloss! If anything, they will take your money and increase your fat!
I requested to talk to the manager and when she came out I repeated my request. I told her that I had recently undergone bariatric weight loss surgery which left me unable to consume more than 4-6 oz of food at a time. She told me that they were only allowed to make 3 different smoothies in kid's sizes---orange creamsicle, chocoloate peanut butter, and strawberry banana. Ummm hmmm not a good thing to give kids in general IMO but a complete NO NO for me for OBVIOUS reasons! I was completely dumbfounded! Not only did the manager hold her front about "corporate policy" she told me that they wouldnt substitute nutrisweet in the strawberry banana. She also told me she couldnt make it without the banana (just strawberry) either!
I am honestly upset that one of my favorite places to get a healthy quick lunch has been scratched off my list of places to go. It actually infuriates me to know that a business is not willing to be flexible to accomodate a customer's request---espeically one as SIMPLE as making a smaller portion to accomodate a dietary restriction.
So to all the bandsters out there----dont waste your time going to Tropical Smoothie, they wont do anything to help aid your weightloss! If anything, they will take your money and increase your fat!
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Ever get that feeling like you have a softball in your sternum?
No?? Well, I do! I have been trying to keep up with information about how much I can eat at one time. The average is about a cup or so of food at once. I made myself some stroganoff tonight since its nice and slippery, therefore easy to get down, and some mushy carrots. I measured out a cup total of the two things and went to town.
CHEW CHEW CHEW CHEW CHEW CHEW CHEW....I made sure to chew! I SWEAR!!!! However, now it seems like there is a huge softball sized lump lingering around where my sternum is. I try and stretch my body, curl it over, and have even begged Greg to put pressure on my back to counteract it. To no avail, its been about 2 hours and the pressure is still there. My stomach doesnt necessarily feel full, but I definatly feel like I dont need to eat anything else.
About a half an hour ago I decided I would drink some water to try and dislodge whatever it was that was hanging out causing this pain. It was EVERYTHING I had to keep that water down. Whoa! This is a first!! I havent had ANY problems eating since the surgery or getting liquids down. Im planning on heading to bed soon so hopefully my softball will be gone by morning. Stay tuned, because Im going to be doing another official weigh in in a few days time! Unofficially I have gained back about 3lbs since starting mushies but I think my body is just in shock over the fact that its been able to eat somewhat real food. We'll see though!
CHEW CHEW CHEW CHEW CHEW CHEW CHEW....I made sure to chew! I SWEAR!!!! However, now it seems like there is a huge softball sized lump lingering around where my sternum is. I try and stretch my body, curl it over, and have even begged Greg to put pressure on my back to counteract it. To no avail, its been about 2 hours and the pressure is still there. My stomach doesnt necessarily feel full, but I definatly feel like I dont need to eat anything else.
About a half an hour ago I decided I would drink some water to try and dislodge whatever it was that was hanging out causing this pain. It was EVERYTHING I had to keep that water down. Whoa! This is a first!! I havent had ANY problems eating since the surgery or getting liquids down. Im planning on heading to bed soon so hopefully my softball will be gone by morning. Stay tuned, because Im going to be doing another official weigh in in a few days time! Unofficially I have gained back about 3lbs since starting mushies but I think my body is just in shock over the fact that its been able to eat somewhat real food. We'll see though!
Thursday, April 23, 2009
The Verdict is IN!
To date the grande total is 23 lbs! I went into the surgeon's today and he cleared me for mushy foods and shredded meats. I am SOOOO EXCITED! I went out to dinner tonight and chowed on mashed taters, green beans, and a little bit of turkey meat. It was like eating filet mignon and lobster (thanks Katie!)
Dr. C said that my incissions look great and that my activity level has been wonderful. He was pretty happy with my overall progress so that was good as well. He cleared me to head back to the pool for water aerobics so hopefully that will be back on the agenda next week as well as cardio and light weights.
Im pretty happy with my progress so far. My personal goal was a total of 30 lbs lost by June 15th. I am more than halfway there already so I am confident I will make it! I just need to keep my mashed potatoes in check so I dont start gaining it back though.
Thanks again for all of the well wishes. Everyone has been wonderful and supportive! Keep checking back for more updates and pictures. Im thinking my next picture post will be in about 2-3 weeks when I go in for my first post op nutrition class.
Dr. C said that my incissions look great and that my activity level has been wonderful. He was pretty happy with my overall progress so that was good as well. He cleared me to head back to the pool for water aerobics so hopefully that will be back on the agenda next week as well as cardio and light weights.
Im pretty happy with my progress so far. My personal goal was a total of 30 lbs lost by June 15th. I am more than halfway there already so I am confident I will make it! I just need to keep my mashed potatoes in check so I dont start gaining it back though.
Thanks again for all of the well wishes. Everyone has been wonderful and supportive! Keep checking back for more updates and pictures. Im thinking my next picture post will be in about 2-3 weeks when I go in for my first post op nutrition class.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
More pictures!
So today I am 12 days post op. I have been trying NOT to get on my scale everyday, however I did get on a few days ago at the surgeon's office--JUST TO SEE!!! I will admit my pants a little bit looser but I haven't seen a major difference yet. I am waiting until I get to my first official post op appointment on Thursday the 23rd to see what the total weight loss is. So far though, according to my calculations, I am down about 15lbs give or take. Now, for you skinny minnie's out there 15lbs is a lot. That's usually an entire pant size for you. However, for the big mamma jamma's out there like me, 15lbs can be gained and lost in a day. We have to hit the 30lb+ mark to REALLY notice a difference.
Don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining about my scale moving in the opposite direction it usually does. I think it may be suffering from confusion or denial about the fact that I am finally starting to lose weight. It not longer shudders in terror as I approach it :) Anyway, here are some pictures to show off this 15lbs lost. Others say they can see it, but I, unfortunately cannot. Hopefully soon though!! P.S. Greg took these using my camera-- he's still learning how to use it so of course they arent in focus haha!
P.S. Greg took these using my camera-- he's still learning how to use it so of course they arent in focus haha!
Don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining about my scale moving in the opposite direction it usually does. I think it may be suffering from confusion or denial about the fact that I am finally starting to lose weight. It not longer shudders in terror as I approach it :) Anyway, here are some pictures to show off this 15lbs lost. Others say they can see it, but I, unfortunately cannot. Hopefully soon though!! P.S. Greg took these using my camera-- he's still learning how to use it so of course they arent in focus haha!
P.S. Greg took these using my camera-- he's still learning how to use it so of course they arent in focus haha!
Thursday, April 16, 2009
What a pain in the gas!
Uh, if I dont stop burping soon I think Im going to be responsible for some global warming situations over Greenland! I thought the gas was supposed to be out of your system within the first few days? Luckily though there isnt much if any pain going on in there anymore due to it. It's just there and its making a grand appearance several times a day by way of loud nasty burps. So, to everyone I come in contact with for the next few days, Im not really rude but I cant help the burping!
On another note, I called Dr. Clark's office earlier this week to request a bump up in my diet progression from liquids to mushies. He did not approve it. At this point I have ONE MORE WEEK LEFT of liquid diet (hopefully). I am waiting very impatiently. I broke down again tonight and snuck a couple of bites of my son's turkey and noodles at dinner. What's even worse is that I didnt spit them out this time. I made sure to chew them into oblivion but looking back now I know that I am stupid for doing it. I feel extremely full which is good, but also bad. I am very scared I might have done something to make my band slip or stretch my new pouch.
Being on a 600-700 calorie a day liquid diet is very trying. I think this is one of the hardest things Ive ever had to do. The mental issues that are coming up are insane. I am beyond the phsyical issues. I am not so hungry anymore that drinking something cant cure, however mentally I am not ready to go back to solid foods. I need to figure out what the duck is up with me and making these bad choices. Is it habit? Is it because I wasnt taught better? Is it because I want to make the choices and fail on some subconcious level? I think I might make an appointment with the psych lady again---maybe she can help me figure it out. All I know is that my behavior tonight was unacceptable. Not only did I put all of the work Ive done for the past few months in jeopardy, I put my health in jeopardy as well.
Its so crazy to put these words on a blog for the world to see. Its almost like airing a personal secret for me to admit my breakdown to you all, however in doing so I realize exactly HOW bad it really is that I did it. I can lie to myself or tell myself its not that severe if I am not accountable to anyone else, but putting it here holds me accountable to all of you that read this.
Please hold me accountable! Help me stay on track whether it means commenting here or emailing me or calling me (for those that have my number). I need you just as much as some of you need me!
Okay little one is climbing into my lap so I need to end this! I'll post again soon with another update. Remember, make sure to check back next Thursday or Friday for sure for an update on weight loss since I head to see the surgeon for my FIRST POST OP APPOINTMENT!!
On another note, I called Dr. Clark's office earlier this week to request a bump up in my diet progression from liquids to mushies. He did not approve it. At this point I have ONE MORE WEEK LEFT of liquid diet (hopefully). I am waiting very impatiently. I broke down again tonight and snuck a couple of bites of my son's turkey and noodles at dinner. What's even worse is that I didnt spit them out this time. I made sure to chew them into oblivion but looking back now I know that I am stupid for doing it. I feel extremely full which is good, but also bad. I am very scared I might have done something to make my band slip or stretch my new pouch.
Being on a 600-700 calorie a day liquid diet is very trying. I think this is one of the hardest things Ive ever had to do. The mental issues that are coming up are insane. I am beyond the phsyical issues. I am not so hungry anymore that drinking something cant cure, however mentally I am not ready to go back to solid foods. I need to figure out what the duck is up with me and making these bad choices. Is it habit? Is it because I wasnt taught better? Is it because I want to make the choices and fail on some subconcious level? I think I might make an appointment with the psych lady again---maybe she can help me figure it out. All I know is that my behavior tonight was unacceptable. Not only did I put all of the work Ive done for the past few months in jeopardy, I put my health in jeopardy as well.
Its so crazy to put these words on a blog for the world to see. Its almost like airing a personal secret for me to admit my breakdown to you all, however in doing so I realize exactly HOW bad it really is that I did it. I can lie to myself or tell myself its not that severe if I am not accountable to anyone else, but putting it here holds me accountable to all of you that read this.
Please hold me accountable! Help me stay on track whether it means commenting here or emailing me or calling me (for those that have my number). I need you just as much as some of you need me!
Okay little one is climbing into my lap so I need to end this! I'll post again soon with another update. Remember, make sure to check back next Thursday or Friday for sure for an update on weight loss since I head to see the surgeon for my FIRST POST OP APPOINTMENT!!
Monday, April 13, 2009
My hardest times during the day....
The reason I put times instead of time is because I have already realized I have two very diffifult times during the day. The first one is my "mentally" hard time. That is around dinnertime. I am so used to eating my meat, potato, and veggie that it has been hard to break the routine. I see Greg and Jake eating dinner and it just makes me long to chew something.
Even though my body feels full, mentally Im like a two year old screaming about why I can't have a cookie when everyone else gets one. I sit there drinking my broth or protein shake and just simmer. No, its not anybody's fault but my own. I got myself into this situation so I shouldn't penalize anyone, right? The hell I can't! Their all eating nothing but veggies from now on! I have made the decree!! They shall not eat cakes or cookies or anything relatively desirable to me at the moment.
The second hardest time for me is once I have gone to bed This is my "physically" hard time of the day. I am 5 days post-op now and can FINALLY lay on my left side, even if it is only for a short time. I am still having issues with gas once I lay down so that's making things difficult for me. I have also noticed that I am having issues with pain, soreness, and/or numbness in my arms quite a bit more than I did pre-op. Each night since coming home from the hospital I have woken up several times after falling asleep to find myself staring at the clock and willing it to be morning so I could get up and go again. I have tried sleeping in a recliner but that is just too uncomfy for me. I like to sleep curled up on my side. It has become a comforting habit for me. I have tried laying flat and then tried propping myself up with pillows. I have tried sleeping as I did before the surgery but to no avail, I haven't been able to find my sweet spot yet as far as sleeping is concerned.
Its too bad really, I did happen to really enjoy sleeping before all of this!
Even though my body feels full, mentally Im like a two year old screaming about why I can't have a cookie when everyone else gets one. I sit there drinking my broth or protein shake and just simmer. No, its not anybody's fault but my own. I got myself into this situation so I shouldn't penalize anyone, right? The hell I can't! Their all eating nothing but veggies from now on! I have made the decree!! They shall not eat cakes or cookies or anything relatively desirable to me at the moment.
The second hardest time for me is once I have gone to bed This is my "physically" hard time of the day. I am 5 days post-op now and can FINALLY lay on my left side, even if it is only for a short time. I am still having issues with gas once I lay down so that's making things difficult for me. I have also noticed that I am having issues with pain, soreness, and/or numbness in my arms quite a bit more than I did pre-op. Each night since coming home from the hospital I have woken up several times after falling asleep to find myself staring at the clock and willing it to be morning so I could get up and go again. I have tried sleeping in a recliner but that is just too uncomfy for me. I like to sleep curled up on my side. It has become a comforting habit for me. I have tried laying flat and then tried propping myself up with pillows. I have tried sleeping as I did before the surgery but to no avail, I haven't been able to find my sweet spot yet as far as sleeping is concerned.
Its too bad really, I did happen to really enjoy sleeping before all of this!
Sunday, April 12, 2009
PICTURE TIME!!!!
There has always been a skinny lady hidden inside me, usually I could keep her satisfied and quiet with oreos, but no longer! She has spoken out that she wants out! She wants to go shopping at Jones New York, she wants to buy silky lingerie from La Perla--okay Victoria's Secret since I cant afford La Perla--but you get the point! She is TIRED of being kept quiet and wants OUT! Here are a few pictures of me in my chubbster glory and hopefully soon I'll be able to update you all with pictures of that skinny lady poking out soon!
Soooooo without further adieu.....
Craptastic Web image of me back before I had two chins!!! I remember that bathing suit! I was about 250 at the time..... ahhh memories!
Soooooo without further adieu.....
Craptastic Web image of me back before I had two chins!!! I remember that bathing suit! I was about 250 at the time..... ahhh memories!
Me and my long board Summer of 2002 right before I bought my house 260 lbs
Day before my Birthday --I think we were in GA for a concert.... about 280 lbs August 2003
May 2005 in Hawaii about 320 lbs
February 2005 in Scotland--about 315lbs 
Crazy awful self portrait in the bathroom... around 350lbs--about March 2007
4th of July 2008 in NYC.... my heaviest by far at 360lbs 
P.S. Doing well today! No pain meds as of yet today so that's good. Getting ready to go play Easter Bunny for my little man and hide eggs :) We are going to do the dying eggs bit soon as well. I think I'll be calling the surgeon's office to see if I am allowed to help eat the 2 dozen or so hard boiled eggs we have in the house, since I cant bring myself to throw them out.....
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Had the surgery and an update from 3 days post op!
I had the surgery on Wed. April 8th. I went in at 5:15am and my surgery took place around 7:30. EVERYONE I encountered at Careplex Hospital was amazing. They were so nice and helpful. The hospital itself was easy to get around in, organized, and clean. I was VERY impressed with my care there and would have no problems going back again for another procedure.
Okay moving on. Everything went like clockwork until it was time for me to have my upper GI before discharge. They were a bit backed up so it prolonged my stay by about an hour. Honestly though, I didnt mind. I kept falling back to sleep so it wasnt a huge deal to me :D :D :D
The wheeled me down where a valet driver brought our car around for us and helped me in. I came home and stayed awake for an hour or so then layed down and slept it off most of that day. I was up around 7pm until about 11pm. I wasnt in a lot of pain, although movement was very slow. I had a hard time taking in any liquids also. They gave me 4 medicine cups (2 tbs each) and said to try and drink one every 15 minutes. That didnt happen! I think I got 2 or 3 cups over about 2-3 hours.
The next day I felt considerably better. I was able to drink a whole lot more than I could the night before. I was able to go to Walmart and walk around for about an hour and only took 1 pain pill. I was pretty happy. Toward the evening though is when I started to really get hungry. Liquids can only fill you up so much---which isnt very much at all to be honest. No matter how much protein shake I drank, jello I ate, or flavored water I was still hungry. It wa strange though. I can tell where the band is because when I drink something it feels full. I mean I can tell where the "constriction area" is even though the band is empty right now. So part of me feels full while the bottom part of my tummy is growling in extreme hunger. Its not a very good feeling :(
2nd day post op I decided to go to Busch Gardens for the day. I didn't get to ride anything and I certainly wasnt in a position to walk. I rented one of the motorized wheel chairs and motored around while Greg and my friend went on all the rides. Thankfully I took a book with me :) I was able to drink my shakes and pudding while there so that was good.
When we went by the Smokehouse though I thought I was going to DIE! My stomach started growling and rumbling like mad. The smell was enough to completely overwhelm me. Of course thats where everyone decided they wanted to eat so I had to sit there and smell it for about 45 minutes. It was enough to make me regret the surgery for about a split second. I mean how could I have done this when I would have to give up eating such yummy smelling foods??? Then I thought about the fact that this is only temporary and eventually I WILL be able to eat them again although not HUGE mammoth sized portions. It was sucky and hard, but I just sat there keeping that little nugget of information in my head and the pain/hunger did pass.
Last night was no different. My friend made yummy stir fry and it was enough to send my sensors into overdrive again. Anyone that says your sense or smell has nothing to do with appetite or eating is a moron! I could have killed to actually chew something and feel it settled in my stomach. I'll admit I broke down and took a bite of their dinner and chewed it into oblivion before spitting it out into a napkin. I couldnt bring myself to swallow it because I knew there was a chance it would cause the band to slip, or make me sick, or even cause worse damage inside me. It just wasnt worth it to swallow it, but it was TOTALLY worth it to chew it!
My body has been progressively getting better. I can sleep on my side again which was a major thing for me. I can sit up now without assistance and its getting easier and easier to stand up from a chair or couch. I took my dressings off yesterday and actually took a shower today by myself. I could have taken them off Friday but didnt want to push it while otu and about and worry about them starting to bleed again on my clothes. Thankfully that hasnt happened at all.
I think so far the only thing causing any major trouble for me aside from the hunger have been the gas/air pains. This was something that wasn't mentioned and will be brought up to the surgeon at my post op appointment. I didnt realize with this surgery they have to inflate your abdomen with air/gas so they can do their stuff. After the surgery is over its up to you to expel the excess air from your body. I have been burping and pooting up a storm which is very embarassing let me tell you! It is also causing quite a bit of pain in my neck and shoulder area, which I have been told now from other people who have had the surgery is to be expected.
All in all I am heeling quickly and am happy with the progress so far. I refuse to get on a scale until my post op appointment but Im hoping for about 10lbs lost by then. Keep your fingers crossed for me :)
Hopefully you have kept up with me through this entire novel and it has provided some good information for those of you considering this type of surgery. I'll make sure to keep you guys updated as I progress and hopefully it wont take so many words next time :)
Okay moving on. Everything went like clockwork until it was time for me to have my upper GI before discharge. They were a bit backed up so it prolonged my stay by about an hour. Honestly though, I didnt mind. I kept falling back to sleep so it wasnt a huge deal to me :D :D :D
The wheeled me down where a valet driver brought our car around for us and helped me in. I came home and stayed awake for an hour or so then layed down and slept it off most of that day. I was up around 7pm until about 11pm. I wasnt in a lot of pain, although movement was very slow. I had a hard time taking in any liquids also. They gave me 4 medicine cups (2 tbs each) and said to try and drink one every 15 minutes. That didnt happen! I think I got 2 or 3 cups over about 2-3 hours.
The next day I felt considerably better. I was able to drink a whole lot more than I could the night before. I was able to go to Walmart and walk around for about an hour and only took 1 pain pill. I was pretty happy. Toward the evening though is when I started to really get hungry. Liquids can only fill you up so much---which isnt very much at all to be honest. No matter how much protein shake I drank, jello I ate, or flavored water I was still hungry. It wa strange though. I can tell where the band is because when I drink something it feels full. I mean I can tell where the "constriction area" is even though the band is empty right now. So part of me feels full while the bottom part of my tummy is growling in extreme hunger. Its not a very good feeling :(
2nd day post op I decided to go to Busch Gardens for the day. I didn't get to ride anything and I certainly wasnt in a position to walk. I rented one of the motorized wheel chairs and motored around while Greg and my friend went on all the rides. Thankfully I took a book with me :) I was able to drink my shakes and pudding while there so that was good.
When we went by the Smokehouse though I thought I was going to DIE! My stomach started growling and rumbling like mad. The smell was enough to completely overwhelm me. Of course thats where everyone decided they wanted to eat so I had to sit there and smell it for about 45 minutes. It was enough to make me regret the surgery for about a split second. I mean how could I have done this when I would have to give up eating such yummy smelling foods??? Then I thought about the fact that this is only temporary and eventually I WILL be able to eat them again although not HUGE mammoth sized portions. It was sucky and hard, but I just sat there keeping that little nugget of information in my head and the pain/hunger did pass.
Last night was no different. My friend made yummy stir fry and it was enough to send my sensors into overdrive again. Anyone that says your sense or smell has nothing to do with appetite or eating is a moron! I could have killed to actually chew something and feel it settled in my stomach. I'll admit I broke down and took a bite of their dinner and chewed it into oblivion before spitting it out into a napkin. I couldnt bring myself to swallow it because I knew there was a chance it would cause the band to slip, or make me sick, or even cause worse damage inside me. It just wasnt worth it to swallow it, but it was TOTALLY worth it to chew it!
My body has been progressively getting better. I can sleep on my side again which was a major thing for me. I can sit up now without assistance and its getting easier and easier to stand up from a chair or couch. I took my dressings off yesterday and actually took a shower today by myself. I could have taken them off Friday but didnt want to push it while otu and about and worry about them starting to bleed again on my clothes. Thankfully that hasnt happened at all.
I think so far the only thing causing any major trouble for me aside from the hunger have been the gas/air pains. This was something that wasn't mentioned and will be brought up to the surgeon at my post op appointment. I didnt realize with this surgery they have to inflate your abdomen with air/gas so they can do their stuff. After the surgery is over its up to you to expel the excess air from your body. I have been burping and pooting up a storm which is very embarassing let me tell you! It is also causing quite a bit of pain in my neck and shoulder area, which I have been told now from other people who have had the surgery is to be expected.
All in all I am heeling quickly and am happy with the progress so far. I refuse to get on a scale until my post op appointment but Im hoping for about 10lbs lost by then. Keep your fingers crossed for me :)
Hopefully you have kept up with me through this entire novel and it has provided some good information for those of you considering this type of surgery. I'll make sure to keep you guys updated as I progress and hopefully it wont take so many words next time :)
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Just who do you think you are missy!?!?!?
About me:
I have been heavy for as long as I can remember. No, thats not true. I started getting heavy once I hit about second or third grade. I was in Catholic school at the time so you can imagine just how unflattering those uniforms were (not to mention uncomfortable!). I steadily began gaining weight despite an active childhood. I didn't just sit around eating and watching TV. I lived in a neighborhood full of boys so I was outside everyday playing army, baseball, GI Joes, hide and seek and many other games. I was the kid that came home with dirt from head to toe, a skinned knee and a rip in her jeans. Yeah, I was that kid! Anyway, like I said, despite all that activity I steadily gained weight. I was also the kid that swam competetively from the time she was in fifth grade until her senior year of high school. I also threw shot put in junior high and first year of high school until a shoulder injury put that on the shelf.
I never wanted for anything growing up---well except a horse but I can let that slide. My parents both worked their butts off to provide for my sister and me. I was a latch key kid that only ate breakfast during the winter when dad was home to make it for me (dad's job is seasonal), depended on school lunch in the afternoon, and was served a home cooked meal each night. I wasn't big on veggies but I did eat them, except salad--blah! I usually went back for seconds and had a big glass of milk to go with it. We were a meat and potatos with veggies on the side family through and through, BUT before you start shaking your head like you've got it all figured out keep reading!
Along with living in a neighborhood where I could go outside and play from sunup to sun down, I had an active family as well. We were always out fishing, swimming at the beach, tubing behind the boat, or whatever! We had this great rule in place for the weekends. Cleaning always seemed to take up a large chunk of our playtime on the weekend so we decided that we would clean up until noon on Saturdays. At noon, however, we would stop whatever we were doing and just go play! It was great. We were always on the lookout for new things to do, but mostly settled for the short list of favorites. The one thing they had in common though was that they always included food. Chips, soda, or other conveince foods. I can remember stopping in with my dad at B&M Bait and Tackle in Mayport FL to get bait before heading to the jetties for our fishing trips. Whenever we'd stop in there it was a ritual that I got a packet of $.25 Wriggley's gum and a blue Ne-Hi soda.
All of my favorite memories growing up include fabulous adventures and events, however, they also included whatever I was eating at the time as well. My third birthday was the great upside down cake that ended in my lap! Scalloping with my family on the gulf coast included eating fresh scallops and steaks for dinner. Heading to the Keys? Dont forget the yummy lobster and conch fritters! Don't get me wrong, I understand that no matter what you do, you need to eat. I just think that its a bit strange that not only do I associate the activity I was doing, I always associate the foods that were eaten as well.
Okay, Im getting a bit side tracked here. Lets boil this down to the nitty gritty--I was a middle class kid growing up who was active and adventerous. Even staying active wasnt enough to stop me from gaining weight which eventually made me overweight, then obese, then eventually morbidly obese....which brings me to yesterday.
Going under the knife!
Im not going to lie. At first it felt like defeat. Like many, I have tried anything and everything under the sun. Diets, fads, starvation, pills, etc. which either didn't work at all, or caused the weight to come back soon after, and often more than what I started with! When it got to the point that I was winded walking up a flight of stairs, I knew it was time to get real and figure out something fast. My answer was to look into weight loss surgery. I had toyed with it before but never done much about it. It is a HUGE step and one that shouldn't be taken lightly.
Like many, I did a TON of research. I joined discussion groups to pick the brains of people that had had the surgery done. I knew a couple of people who had this type of surgery as well as the Ruen Y Gastric Bypass. After doing my research I settled on having the Banding procedure done. Everyone has their own reasons for choosing the different surgery option and mine were pretty simple.
1) I wanted something I could recover from rather quickly
2) I wanted something that could be reversed if needed
3) I wanted something that if I decided to have another child could be altered to accomodate a pregnancy
4) I wanted something less invasive then full GB surgery.
So now you know a little bit about me and where I am coming from with my decision for the whole weight loss surgery thing.
Just some parting words though.....
This is NOT cheating
This is NOT an easy way out
This is NOT an instanct success
This is NOT the be all end all to weight loss
I will have to WORK to make this happen
I will undergo invasive surgery to make this happen
I will have to work out and exercise just like everyone else
I will have to watch what I eat more carefully than before to make sure I get enough nutrients
THIS IS ONLY A TOOL!!!!
I have been heavy for as long as I can remember. No, thats not true. I started getting heavy once I hit about second or third grade. I was in Catholic school at the time so you can imagine just how unflattering those uniforms were (not to mention uncomfortable!). I steadily began gaining weight despite an active childhood. I didn't just sit around eating and watching TV. I lived in a neighborhood full of boys so I was outside everyday playing army, baseball, GI Joes, hide and seek and many other games. I was the kid that came home with dirt from head to toe, a skinned knee and a rip in her jeans. Yeah, I was that kid! Anyway, like I said, despite all that activity I steadily gained weight. I was also the kid that swam competetively from the time she was in fifth grade until her senior year of high school. I also threw shot put in junior high and first year of high school until a shoulder injury put that on the shelf.
I never wanted for anything growing up---well except a horse but I can let that slide. My parents both worked their butts off to provide for my sister and me. I was a latch key kid that only ate breakfast during the winter when dad was home to make it for me (dad's job is seasonal), depended on school lunch in the afternoon, and was served a home cooked meal each night. I wasn't big on veggies but I did eat them, except salad--blah! I usually went back for seconds and had a big glass of milk to go with it. We were a meat and potatos with veggies on the side family through and through, BUT before you start shaking your head like you've got it all figured out keep reading!
Along with living in a neighborhood where I could go outside and play from sunup to sun down, I had an active family as well. We were always out fishing, swimming at the beach, tubing behind the boat, or whatever! We had this great rule in place for the weekends. Cleaning always seemed to take up a large chunk of our playtime on the weekend so we decided that we would clean up until noon on Saturdays. At noon, however, we would stop whatever we were doing and just go play! It was great. We were always on the lookout for new things to do, but mostly settled for the short list of favorites. The one thing they had in common though was that they always included food. Chips, soda, or other conveince foods. I can remember stopping in with my dad at B&M Bait and Tackle in Mayport FL to get bait before heading to the jetties for our fishing trips. Whenever we'd stop in there it was a ritual that I got a packet of $.25 Wriggley's gum and a blue Ne-Hi soda.
All of my favorite memories growing up include fabulous adventures and events, however, they also included whatever I was eating at the time as well. My third birthday was the great upside down cake that ended in my lap! Scalloping with my family on the gulf coast included eating fresh scallops and steaks for dinner. Heading to the Keys? Dont forget the yummy lobster and conch fritters! Don't get me wrong, I understand that no matter what you do, you need to eat. I just think that its a bit strange that not only do I associate the activity I was doing, I always associate the foods that were eaten as well.
Okay, Im getting a bit side tracked here. Lets boil this down to the nitty gritty--I was a middle class kid growing up who was active and adventerous. Even staying active wasnt enough to stop me from gaining weight which eventually made me overweight, then obese, then eventually morbidly obese....which brings me to yesterday.
Going under the knife!
After attending a weight loss seminar by Dr. Thomas Clark and the Weight Loss Surgery Center of Hampton Roads, I had made the decision that I was going to have this surgery. It took several months of doctors visits and labwork. I had to see a psychologist and nutritionist as well. Thankfully I had been doing Weight Watchers for several months and was able to take in my food and activity journals to show the nutritionist. That sped things up considerably. I also had to procure 5 years worth of past medical data to show the insurance company in order to be approved for this surgery.
Finally the day came and Cat called to tell me that I was approved and we could go ahead and schedule a surgery date. That date was for April 8, 2009. With the surgery scheduled, I knew that I didnt want to treat this as a "last hoorah" or anything simliar. Anytime Ive done a diet or whatever I always had my last day of debauchery so to speak. I didnt want this to start the same way as all of my failed diets so I made sure to keep following a somewhat healthy eating pattern and tried to stay somewhat active.
As time went by, my nerves began to get more and more unsettled. Thankfully my best friend came to see me and kept me company. We got to do some great things before my surgery date like visit Colonial Williamsburg, play tourist in Washington D.C., and spend some well needed time with my family. The day did arrive though for me to have my surgery.
Im not going to lie. At first it felt like defeat. Like many, I have tried anything and everything under the sun. Diets, fads, starvation, pills, etc. which either didn't work at all, or caused the weight to come back soon after, and often more than what I started with! When it got to the point that I was winded walking up a flight of stairs, I knew it was time to get real and figure out something fast. My answer was to look into weight loss surgery. I had toyed with it before but never done much about it. It is a HUGE step and one that shouldn't be taken lightly.
Like many, I did a TON of research. I joined discussion groups to pick the brains of people that had had the surgery done. I knew a couple of people who had this type of surgery as well as the Ruen Y Gastric Bypass. After doing my research I settled on having the Banding procedure done. Everyone has their own reasons for choosing the different surgery option and mine were pretty simple.
1) I wanted something I could recover from rather quickly
2) I wanted something that could be reversed if needed
3) I wanted something that if I decided to have another child could be altered to accomodate a pregnancy
4) I wanted something less invasive then full GB surgery.
So now you know a little bit about me and where I am coming from with my decision for the whole weight loss surgery thing.
Just some parting words though.....
This is NOT cheating
This is NOT an easy way out
This is NOT an instanct success
This is NOT the be all end all to weight loss
I will have to WORK to make this happen
I will undergo invasive surgery to make this happen
I will have to work out and exercise just like everyone else
I will have to watch what I eat more carefully than before to make sure I get enough nutrients
THIS IS ONLY A TOOL!!!!
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