heathercross
1st 6 mos
Jul 31, 2002
8-21-02 Uneventful…Walked outside for about 30 minutes and didn’t have much trouble with the 4 flights of stairs.
8-22-02 Doing pretty well…Not hungry and have to remind myself to eat. The nutritionist has me on pureed foods for the next 3 weeks. The only thing that did not agree with me so far was Welch’s Grape Juice (mixed 50/50 water) and SF Popsicles. Oh, also I have yet to take any pain medication since coming home. I have been eating: refried beans w/ cheese, mashed potatoes, carnation instant breakfast SF w/ skim milk, ricotta cheese, scrambled eggs w/ cheese, crystal light, skim milk, water and apple juice (50/50).
8-23-02 1st Follow-up Appointment w/ Dr. Leitman. Got my staples out and replaced with sterile strips. My new best friend, the SCALE, said I was down 21 Lbs (283.5 Lbs)! OMG! Was I shocked? Dr said my mouth was VERY dry and I wasn’t getting enough liquids. He said he rather have me drink then eat. Doesn’t care much about the food in the first 3 weeks, drinking is more important. Mentioned I can’t quench my thirst, this is b/c I am dehydrated!
8-27-02 walked a ton yesterday & today.... Don’t mind the walking, just hate having to come home and climb the 4 flights of stairs. It is the stairs that are killing me! They never did pre-op. I was the master. My incision (under the sterile strips) appears to either be leaking a bit of fluid of blood. Nothing major, just a bit. I am guessing it is from all the walking and climbing. Plus, my husband & I have been out the last 2 days looking for new furniture, and since I am constantly trying out the sofas, I think the entire sitting down & getting back up again must strain my incision and my insides. OUCH! Other than that, food still going down find was hungry for the first time this morning since the surgery.
8-29-02 2 weeks post op today and my incision is LEAKING like a faucet. Reddish Yellow, no odor...My Dr is on vacation till next Tuesday and Joan assures me this is normal. She instructed me to keep it dry and keep it covered. She said that unless it gets smelly, looks infected and I get a fever, its nothing to be worried about? I know I need faith, but, this is making me miserable. Ugh! On a food note, nothing making me dump or vomit yet...I haven't been very DARING yet, but, I need to be soon as I am getting bored with my food choices.
9-3-02 Decided I have had enough of this cramp under my ribcage and all the leaking...Called Dr. Leitman this morning and he fit me in. Well, as I thought, the leaking is
9-3-02 (II) Well, I thought I could make it through the first 6 months without vomiting...boy, was I wrong. I had cream of potato soup for dinner with some grated cheese. Have eaten this like 4X since surgery. I either ate to fast or I don't know what, b/c within 5 minutes of finishing; I was on the "potty" and puking in a bucket. OMG! I guess we won't be eating that again for a while.
9-6-02 Today has been such a WONDERFUL day. The co-op board approved my husband & me for our new Upper East Side Apt. This has been such an amazing year. A year ago, 9-11, was the worst day or my life. I work 2 blocks from the WTC and 9/11 was the worst day of my life. How I even walked all the way home AMAZED me! I also lost my grandpa & stepfather last year. Both passed away 2 weeks and 10 days before my wedding day (11/4). This year, 2002, has been so AMAZING! I am second chance at life. I will be 32 in 2 months, and I hope that 32 is better than 31. Sorry for rambling!
9-7-02 Well, my Nutritionist has cleared to me eat whatever I can "stomach". I have been eating alpine lace Swiss and Boar's Head Honey for 3 days, YUMMY! My husband and I also went to a diner for Breakfast and we shared a 3-egg cheese omelet. I ate a 1/3 of it, and he ate the remaining 2/3's and the home fries and toast. When we were done, there was still A LOT of food on the plate. I know the waitress was like "I can't believe that is all the fat girl ate". The past two days I have had SO MUCH MORE ENERGY! My hubby & I walked around NYC for about 4 hours today and yesterday! Oh, incision is still leaking. A little more now than before, probably b/c of the increase in activity and exercise. Also, still having trouble sleeping. Haven't gotten to bed prior to 3am for 2 weeks. Starting taking 10mg of Ambien, helping a little, but, still not a full nights sleep. Not too tired though, so, I guess that is fine.
9-13-02 4 weeks and 1 day post-op...the 15th will be my 1 month anniversary. Looking forward to going to the Lenox Hill Support Group next Thursday the 19th. Can't wait to see everyone plus actually be a help to someone who is pre-op. Still leaking, still have insomnia. My next appointment is the 20th. I am looking forward to weighing in and I am going to BEG to go back to work. I have met some really great people on here and I am hoping now, that I am post-op, I can be of assistance to pre-ops like so many of you were to me during that trying time.
9-18-02 What a week. For 2 straight nights, I have slept through the night without any drugs.... HALLEJUH! I am not sure what is different, but I am not complaining. I have also started to eat MEAT! I tried turkey chili on Monday night and it went down like a charm. Yesterday, I stopped by my office to meet some coworkers for lunch (as my closest friend at work is leaving for a new job before I come back on the 30th) and all 16 guys I work with, where like "WHOA, look at you"...Now, I can't see the changes yet, but, they sure seemed impressed! For lunch, I had a mozzarella and cheese salad w/ olive oil & balsamic vinegar...Tasted sooooo YUMMY! That balsamic woke up taste buds! It was so refreshing. Well, tomorrow is Support Group @ Lenox Hill and I am so excited and then Friday is my 3rd Follow-up appointment w/ Dr Leitman. Can wait to get on that scale!
9-19-02 Went to support group tonight...Met some truly wonderful people that I had never met before. There was a presentation from a personal trainer and also from the Nutritionist on staff. I was so glad to see everyone. Tomorrow is my Dr.’s appointment.
9-20-02 Five week check-up, still LEAKING, incision still open. Dr says everything else looks good. He cleared me to start working out. No lifting weights, swimming (until incision stops leaking) or volleyball yet. Lost 8 Lbs, down a total of 34lbs since surgery.
9-23-02 I went to the OBGYN this am to talk about birth control. I have been taking the pill on and off since I was 16. I stopped taking it about April as preparation for the surgery since I knew the pill increased my chances for blood clots. My Dr doesn't want me to go back on the pill. She, too, is worried about the clot issue due to my excess weight. We also talked about the patch, but, she doesn't want the added hormones to work against my weight loss. We also spoke about the IUD or Cervical Cap. We opted for Condoms now and Cap later. In six mos or so when I am within 30-50 Lbs of goal, she will fit me for the Cap. This will be more manageable and 94% reliable against pregnancy. I feel very good about this. She also suggested I start taking a prenatal when I am 6 mos before we start trying to get pregnant (winter/summer of 2004). On a VERY positive note, I am down another 1lb to 269!
9-23-02 I am now AN ANGEL...Nancy Turnage...We spoke to night, what a great lady. She is SOOOOO prepared for this and ready. I can't wait till we can meet in person and then shop
9-28-02 Hello there....Happy Saturday. What a Beautiful day in NYC! My husband & I just moved in to our new home, a beautiful 407sq ft apt in the Upper East Side of Manhattan (don't get me started on what a 407 sq ft apt costs). Our first purchase, no more throwing money away with Rent! I go back to work on Monday, have been out since 8-15 (Open RNY). My incision has been leaking since week 2. I am sooo glad to go back to work. However, if this stock market doesn't pick up soon, (I am a broker), I will be in SERIOUS trouble. Anyway, Just wanted to say hello. I am 6 weeks post-op, down 35lbs last check and feeling PHENOMENAL! Thank you to everyone for all their support and to all my AMOS friends and especially my husband, Claudio. The most amazing man in the WORLD!
9-30-02 Went back to work today! WOW am I exhausted. Everyone said I look great, I feel good but am overwhelmed! I feel asleep on the bus on the way home! LOL! I did not eat much yesterday, but, on a more important note; I did start taking my supplements again. I have to do this...this is absolutely necessary! I also found a protein bar I like, Advantage (Atkins) Choc Peanut Butter [240 cal, 19g protein, 1g of sugar].
10-7-02 IT’S MY BIRTHDAY! I am 32! And, guess what? I am thinner today than when I was 31...maybe even when I was 30! WHHHOOOAAA! Weighed myself at work today and I am down to 264! 40.5 Lbs gone! Last night, I got a full body massage as a gift to myself and I felt great! I told my hubby last night during dinner that I feel AMAZING! I am going to curves tonight to join! Look out world, here I COME!
10-15-02 2 months post-op....Thought I would post what I am eating. I relied on other profiles prior to surgery; hopefully I can help someone else. I can eat a lot of things; here are some of the regulars...
BREAKFAST: 1 egg with cheese, 1/4 egg beater w/ slice of Pepperidge farm low cal wheat bread, 2 string cheese, slices cheese w/ crackers, slice of pf wheat toast w/ peanut butter,
1 egg and 1 link turkey sausage, 1/4-1/2 cheese omelet.
LUNCH/DINNER: 1/2 turkey/cheese sandwich on wheat w/ mayo & tomato, 2 oz turkey & 2 oz cheese, hamburger patty w/ slice of cheese & tomato no bread, 1/2 slice of meatloaf (turkey/beef), 6 in subway meatball sub-w/out the bread, 8-10 medium shrimp w/ cocktail sauce, mashed potatoes, Greek salad, beef gyro minus the bread, beef/chili burrito NO RICE (can eat a 1/3 per meal), beef soft taco from taco bell, turkey/beef chili homemade or from Wendy's (1/2 of a small), scallops (3 at a time), tomatoes & Mozzarella salad with balsamic/olive oil (max 2 slices cheese/tomatoes), Indian beef kabobs & kufta, portabella mushrooms, gnocchi w/ meat sauce, peas & carrots, Chicken Leg, Chicken Fajitas.
SNACK: Kalamata Olives, SF Fudgsicle, Zone bar Choc Peanut Butter, No Sugar Added Breyers Choc/Vanilla/Strawberry, string cheese and Ritz peanut butter snack crackers.
10-16-02 Today, I met with my Nutritionist, Patricia Blaho, RD. I have decided that I will see once a month. I think I need to use this "tool" to really re-learn how to eat. By seeing her and keeping a food diary, I feel I can watch & learn about my eating habits. Fitday.com has been the greatest thing in the world. Well, the RD told me that I need to curb my cheese addiction and eat only 1oz/day. I think I was having cheese at every meal. Also, I don’t need to have so many protein bars. I just love the ZONE Choc Peanut Butter bar, however, I am consistently getting in 60-80g of protein, so, I really don’t need that bar. I think as a meal replacement, yes, but as a snack/4th meal NO WAY! They taste too much like candy bars. Oh, and I almost forgot, Patricia said I CAN HAVE A DIET COKE! I am sooooooooo EXCITED! I am going to drink one this week. I REALLY hope I don't like them anymore, but this is the only thing I have been craving. I used to drink 6-8 a day pre-op. Midnight before surgery on 8/15, I went COLD TURKEY! It has been so hard. One, just one...I will let you know how it tastes :0)
10-17-02 Tonight was Support Group, I love going to Support Group. My husband teases me about it and says I get excited like a teenager and refers to it as “going to prom”…What a HOOT! Finally met my friend, Berta, who I have been talking to on the phone since July. She surprised me and showed up to Group. It was a nice surprise.
10-18-03 Had my 2 month review (I was 2 months on the 15th). I am down 44.5 Lbs to 260lbs. I am very proud of myself. However, I feel I should be losing more. Hopefully, with the advice I got from the RD on Wed, I will to maximize this month. Dr. Leitman Ok’d me to start doing a FULL WORKOUT! No 300 sit-ups or anything (like I would anyway)…But, I am going to join Curves for Women on Monday night and also start playing Volleyball again. Oh, INCISION UPDATE: Still not closed. Dr. Leitman put some black ointment on it, and says it will close “any day now”…I think I have heard this before.
10-19-02 Cleaned out my closet today. I am sending a bunch of clothes to a wonderful woman in Upstate NY. Also, went to Manhattan Mini Storage (yes us New Yorker’s, pay for extra closet space) and brought home all the clothes (size 16-22) that now fit & may soon fit. The only thing I left there was my summer dresses.
10-25-02 I haven't been on here much lately, since having surgery 10wks ago, my life has resumed to normal or better than normal. BUT, I wanted to let y’all now that my incision (open RNY 8-15) has FINALLY CLOSED UP and is NO LONGER LEAKING!!!!!! That thing has been leaking like a faucet for 9 weeks! Thank you Thank you Thank you....Oh, also, I am down to 49lbs to 255.5lbs (originally 304.5)
11-1-02 I think my little plateau has broken (down to 252, 52.5 Lbs). I joined the gym last week and now go to HRC in
11-2-02 Tomorrow is my 1st Wedding Aniv, I am so excited. So much has happened this year. Today I made my hubby Choc Peanut Butter Cookies & Double Choc Chip Cookies and you know what, I WANTED ONE SO BAD! I am proud to say I didn't eat any batter, nor did I eat not even a morsel of a cookie although I contemplated chewing one up and spitting it out! I probably could have eaten one since I don't dump, but, I was good and I am proud of myself!
11-5-02 I am now officially under 250lbs, I weighed in this morning @ the gym and I weighed 249lbs! I am down 55.5 Lbs in less than 12wks. I want to be down 60 by my 3-month aniv on Nov 15th, so, I need to lose 4.5lbs by next Friday! I think if I continue to get my lazy butt out of bed every morning and go to the gym, I should be successful!
11-7-02 I think I have found through trial & error that I was NOT eating enough. I have been eating like 800 calories a day and about 60-90g of protein. However, this week I think I have been closer to 1000 calories and my weight seems to be coming off better. I am down another 2lbs this am. I guess the whole "eat more, loss more" works or maybe it’s the going to the gym everyday! Whatever it is, it is working and I am THRILLED!
Unless something bad happens, I should be down at my goal of 60lbs @ 3mos (on the 15thm 2.5lbs more to go).
11-12-02 Guess what! I met my 3 month goal...Got on the scale this AM at the gym and I was down to 244, I am down 60.5lbs! I wanted to be down 60 by the 15th and I did it! My next short term goal is to be down 80lbs by 4mos (12-15) and 90lbs by New Years Eve! Hopefully, achieving this will be easier now that I got a new exercise buddy, her name is Layla and she is a 3 month old English Bulldog. I got her this weekend in Upstate NY. I have wanted a dog for awhile and she was my gift to myself!
11-15-02 Three Months Out today and down 60.5lbs. Currently holding at 244lbs all week. It’s also that Magical time of the month, so, that is probably why the scale didn't budge. I went to Water Aerobics the other night, it was wonderful...I am still a little sore. I have a HUGE Nat'l Conference for my company Jan 22-24; I would really love to be down 100lbs by then. Last time I had one of these was in July and I was at 300lbs. However, that’s 40 Lbs in a little over 2 months. I REALLY want to do it. I wouldn't be disappointed if I don't as long as I am down 100lbs by my 6mos aniv on 2/15.
11-20-02 I have hit a plateau...I haven't lost anything since the 12th...In fact for the past few days, the scale crept back up from 244 to 245.5 and today, it went back down to 244. I know, I know, I know, I need to stop weighing myself every other day. I need to weigh in once wk ONLY, maybe Fridays or Monday. I have decided to go back to eating almost ALL PROTEIN, cut the carbs and hopefully I can kick this plateau. Still going to the gym 5X/week, so, I am doing something right. Tomorrow night (thurs) is Support Group, I am looking forward to mtg a fellow AMOS member that I have been emailing and watching her progress. I am also bringing a friend, my husband's best friends' wife along. Can't wait!
11-22-02 Went to support group last night @ Lenox Hill! Met a lot of wonderful people, pre & post ops. Our group seems to have grown in popularity since Al Roker came out of the closet about having his surgery at Lenox Hill. Roslin & Kurian where there and there had to be 50-75 people in attendance. Met Paula M from here, she looks FABOULUS! She is like my WLS Idol! Oh, got on the scale this morning at the gym, FINALLY that damn scale moved! Down another 2lbs to 242! Total of 62.5lbs in 12 wks.
11-24-02 Went out last night with the girls...I had, for the first time, a drink, or two! I had a
11-26-02 (down 64.5lbs) Scales are moving again, down to 240/239 closer to 240. I am now thinner than I was this time in 2001 and 2000. Looking forward to GOBBLE GOOBLE day on Thursday!
11-28-02 HAPPY THANKSGIVING...Can't wait to go home later today. What a year it has been, I have so much to be thankful for: my life, my family, my hubby, WLS, Dr Leitman, my wonderful friends, that I am employed and that I live a free life here in the . Ohh Yeah, what I am going to eat tonight, I originally thought about having ONLY
12-1-02 I AM SOOOOO SICK W/ THE FLU! YUCK! I have had the flu since Tuesday; I had NO VOICE on Thanksgiving Day and just got it back last night! I am calling out sick tomorrow. For sure and maybe Tuesday....It is so hard with the flu b/c previously, I would have taken Sudafed or something or Nyquil at bedtime and that always worked in like 2-3 days, now, b/c of the RNY, my dtr has me taking Robitussin, IT DOES NOTHING! I AM MISERABLE!
12-3-02 Went to my PCP yesterday, what a relief! He put me on the zpack and I feel 900% better. On a crappy side,
12-08-02 While my addiction to Shrimp & Scallops continue now that I have been to
12-16-02 4 month Anniversary! Well, I didn't hit my goal! I wanted to be down 80lbs as of my 4 mos, but no sense beating myself up about it! I am now 233lbs, down a total of 71.5 since surgery and 12lbs this month. But, if you put it all in perspective, I was sick for 2wks and didn't work out for a good 10 days! Plus, there was also Thanksgiving this month! I do think I am eating too much though! For example, last night, I ate two cheeseburgers w/out the bun. Now, each one was like 2oz, but, I wasn't full! Also, I think I am eating too much red meat! Maybe I am being paranoid! I think to cure my paranoia, I will do the 100% Carb thing this week and see if I can jump start it! Next goal is for my Nat'l Sales Conf, Jan 22-25th. I haven't seen these people since July (1 month before surgery and at 305lb)...So, I would like to be down 90lbs then and at 215. Might be doable. If I lose 15lbs this month, I could do it! I must stay motivated. I am off work for 2 wks as of Friday 12/20-1/5...so, my plan is (1) enjoy the holiday with my friends & family (2) housebreak my puppy (3) take her to the dog park everyday (4) increase my daily workout from 45minutes to 1hr and FINALLY (5) find the $ to start with the personal trainer 2X/week! Also have Support Group Thursday Night, CAN'T WAIT!
12-19-02 Well, I'm very perplexed! I am SURE I am eating too much. I haven't lost in over a week! It is also VERY stressful! I sometimes am not full, and other times I get full very quickly. My good friend Michele, who had surgery in April, suggested I add a like fiber and carbs to my diet and some veggies and see what transpires. She assures me I will start losing again. So, today for breakfast, I had 2 packets of Carnation Instant Breakfast, SF (300cal/24g protein). So, I am also going to eat more often, maybe 4-6 little meals for the week and see what transpires! I also have support group tonight, which I am looking forward too! Additionally, I will see Dr Leitman on 1/3 for the first time in 2 1/2 mos, can't wait, would like be down 80lbs by then, HOPEFULLY!
12-22-02 As I sit here typing and eating 1/2 of a small Wendy's Chili, I AM EXHAUSTED! My hubby and I just got back from the gym...he taught me how to use all the machines. I did them all, one set of 12 reps on each. Gosh, do I feel it. GUESS WHAT? I was at the Gap yesterday and I fit a XL Coat! I am sooooooo shocked! Actually, as soon as I get off this computer, I am headed back over there to buy it! We took my bulldog puppy to the dog park both this morning and yesterday, I was jogging with her down the street, ME JOGGING and NOT OUT OF BREATHE! It was a blast and she loved it! And, drum roll please, lost another 3.5lbs, I am down to 229.5 (75lbs)!
12-27-02 Hey all! Happy Holidays! Wanting to see if my new pic is up. I am down in Philly with my family since Monday and going back to
12-29-02 Went out last night...Had WAY to much to drink. Had a
12-30-02 Can't believe tomorrow is New Years's Eve. Just got back from my 15 minute walk to and from the gym along with a 40 minute workout! It feels good to get the body moving again. And yes the Scale Gods have been kind; I am down to 226 that is 3lbs from last Monday. Thank You! That is 78.5lbs and 7lbs so far this month (12/15 - 4 MONTH ANIV)! Guess all that XMAS food didn't hurt me. Anyone have any New Year's Resolutions this year? Mine is too seek some therapy so that I know why I had a food addiction to begin with! Also, I want to get a better job, I want some Career Advancement! However, if the stock market doesn't come around, I will just be glad that I am still employed with all the layoffs in our industry!
1-5-03 Had the party for my sister last night down in Philadelphia (surprise 30th) and let me tell you all the "oh my god, look at you", "you look fantastic", "I can't believe it", "naw, come on, you don't need to lose another 70", "how did you do it", "wow, you LOOK amazing!" comments I received. I was dressed head to toe in the typical NYC outfit - BLACK. And, I think it was quite slimming. Now, while I do feel quite "petite" compared to my old self, I still felt as if I was the fattest person in the room. The party was at the Manayunk Brewery Company in Manayunk (Philly), PA. We had the upstairs bar (private) from 7-10pm and then it becomes a club after that. I saw a friend from college and some of her friends that I vaguely new from college (Millersville Univ). There were scores and scores of really young girls in all these hip hugging tiny clothes and wouldn't you know that STILL after losing just shy of 80lbs, I still felt like people were looking at me and saying "look at that fat cow"....I know I need to work on this self image thing (that is new year's resolution #1 for this year). Anyway, had a wonderful time, my sister looked wonderful and so happy. It was a huge success and I was pleased! Now, tomorrow starts the hard part. 10 days till I am 5 months post op and 45 days till I am 6 months, so, tomorrow, I am kicking it into FULL GEAR! No carbs and more exercise and more water. I am GOING TO LOSE THE 21 Lbs by 2-15! I am going to do it, positive affirmation here. I want to do it and I will. Also, two of my friends are having surgery this week! They are in my prayers!
1-7-03 Down another 2lbs to 224. Feeling very tired and run down lately. Maybe it is the weather, but, I think I am getting the flu again, my voice and throat have been very sore this week. Getting a new nutritionist next week, looking forward to actually having a game plan with my meals! I feel better when I eat a more rounded meal, but I lose better when I eat almost entirely protein! Went to visit my friend, Joyce, in the hospital tonight and last night. She had surgery on Monday the 6th. She is doing well. As I watched her in that bed, I couldn't help but remember myself laying there some 5 months ago, brought back a lot if memories. Looking back, I never thought I would be where I am now.
1-9-03 Last night, for the first time in 2 years, I started to play volleyball again. In high school, I was Varsity all 4 yrs and even had potential offer's for college, however, I always heard "u will need to lose a little weight if you want to be serious about this thing"...Anyway, in NYC, there is a league, NY Prof Vball League. They have 300 some odd teams and I used to play religiously when I first moved here in 1997. I played every season and also on weekends. However, I haven't plays since 2000 for many reasons but more specifically b/c of my weight gain. Well, I went to the open scrimmage last night, with my girl Rosy, to hook up with a team. I always hated this b/c they reminded me of grade school gym class when someone would always be picked last b/c of the way he or she looked! Well, within a short time, this guy (who liked the way I played) asked me to join his team! And, Rosy and I also got on another team together. So, I am psyched. I will be playing 2 nights a week! I was diving all over the court, jumping up and down (still not tall enough at 5'5 to block the ball), but, I felt good. NO, I FELT AMAZING!
1-15-03 5 mos post-op, have had the flu for 2 wks, dtr SUGGESTED I wait to work out till all the flu is gone. He said that is why I relapsed from Thanksgiving because I went back to the gym while still sick! Will wait till next Monday. Weight is somewhere around 220lbs.
1-18-03 I just had to post this...I was just out shopping at Ann Taylor and I bought a Large Shirt and a size 16 pants. DID U HEAR ME, SIZE 16 PANTS! We all know there is a difference in size between 16 @ Lane Bryant and other Plus store...a 16 from a REGULAR store is SMALLER! I can't friggin belief it...I started crying in the dressing room!
1-20-03 Got my ass back to the gym today. I have 23 days till my 6 month aniv and boy do I have my work cutout for me. I weighed in at 218lbs. So, I am down 87.5lbs. I have another 12.5lbs to lose before the 15th of February. Everytime I thing this tool has begun to fail me, the scale moves again and I feel reassured! It amazes me how much I can eat sometimes and some of the choices I make can be poor! I don't dump and I also don't have a problem w/ alcohol, so, I need to make good choices. The sugar, sweets, etc that’s easy. I just don't do them. But, I go out with friends and I miss having a glass of wine or a drink. I haven't had the wine yet, but, a friend of mine filled me in with a little secret...READY, VODKA HAS NO CARBS! 1 SHOT = 97 CALORIES, 0 FAT AND 0 CARBS! Now, if they only had Crystal Light on tap at the bars & Clubs...."Excuse me, Bartender, Can I have a vodka wits a splash of raspberry ice crystal light"...LOL, I don't think so! Anyway, I also think I need to stay away from so much red meat. I need to eat more chicken and seafood. I always get my protein in, I exceed 100g per day, and however, my calories and fat have been on the rise. I am meeting with a new Nutrionist, Nicole, around 3pm today, so, hopefully, she will kick my butt into gear. She is $200/YEAR and I can see her as much as I want. Good Thing, I may need it. Oh, and my husband's friends girlfriend (did you catch all that), she told my hubby on Friday night that she lost 20lbs and "didn't have to use surgery to do it"...I think I will clock her next time I see her!
1-21-03 Saw my Nutrionist yesterday. For those post-ops who have NEVER seen a Nutrionist or haven't kept up with the relationship. One thing to remember, to be successful long term, you need exercise, support (from groups, family and people on this site) and a balanced lifestyle. I got a ton of emails from a recent Q&A Answer I posted about seeing my Nutrionist last week. She is the Nutrionist for Drs Roslin, Kurian and Leitman @ Lenox Hill in NYC. I am a little over 5 mos post-op, and thought I would share Nicole's words of wisdom (and save y’all the CA$H)...At 5-6 mos, we should be at 1100 calories. We should also be taking (at a MINIMUM a Multi-Vitamin, Calcium Citrate and B-12). Keep in mind that although there is much debate on carbs and milk, etc. A lb is STILL LOST BY ELIMINATING 3500 CALORIES FROM YOUR DIET! With that said, here is what SHE feels I should be eating on a daily basis at 5-6 mos out: Starches (2-3 svgs/day), Fruits (1-2 svgs/day), Milk (1 svg/day), Vegetables (3-4 svgs/day), Fat List (2-3 svgs/day), Meat/Meat Substitute (4-6 svgs/day). There are also a ton of Free foods (i.e.. condiments, ketchup, mustard, creamer, gum, jello, etc)...If anyone who is as far out as me (5-6 mos) and would like a copy of what she gave me, please email me and I will share this with you. I can fax it to you or drop a copy in the mail. Please keep in mind that this "TOOL" is just a "TOOL" and behavior modification is KEY! I want to eat right now and learn to eat right now, so that when I am out of my prime mos (up to 14), I can maintain and live a happy, healthy life!
1-23-03 We had our Nat'l Sales Conf last night @ the Wall Street Regent. The last conf was in July when I was 1 month before surgery and tipping the scales @ 300lbs. Last night FELT SO FABOULOUS! I wore a size 16 suit (that was big) and my partner in the field walked by me 2X without recognizing me! Everyone in the field (except 1) is male and most of them were like "did you do something different with your hair, I can't put my finger on it"....You know men, NEVER do they ever say something about weight, they have been TRAINED! A bunch did come up and were like, "WOW, you look wonderful"...I felt amazing, I held my own, I felt confident and I felt like people were looking at me and listening to me for different reasons then before! I am trying to get promoted, so, I think it was a GIANT step in the right direction. It continues again tonight and all day tomorrow! What to wear, what to wear? I was also VERY worried about the 3 course dinner & cocktails. I had a vodka tonic at the cocktail hour, 1 DRINK THANK YOU (No carbs in Vodka) and ate a few bites of my salad, 1/3 - 1/2 of my filet mignon (all my carrots) and 1/4 or the Chocolate Mousse (I don't dump)....It felt AWESOME!
1-26-03 Well, it is January 26th. I am 20 days from being 6 mos post-op. I have a lot to accomplish this next 3 wks; I want to lose another 12.5lbs to reach my 100. I got my period 2 days ago, so, soon as it is over, I should drop a few lbs. I have 3 milestones coming up: (1) 6 months aniv on 2-15 (2) losing 100lbs and (3) being under 200lbs (18lbs away)...I was out for lunch with my girlfriend Berta yesterday and we were discussing this surgery and I was saying my next milestone (4) will be when I know longer fit into clothes @ Lane Bryant! I will be sooooooo happy! Tops are already too BIG, but, bottoms I am 16/18. I went into Talbot’s Woman the other weekend and the lady said, "your size is the other side", meaning the Regular size, I laughed to myself! Still don't have any hair loss, very excited about that and my skin looks good. Wish I could say the same about my teeth. They used to be so pearly white, now the enamel is all gone (or so it appears)...They look like crap! OH, LAST THING, when I weigh 199, I am going to start taking horseback riding lessons on the
2-1-03 Here I sit, Feb 1st, 15 days away from my 6 mos aniv...I SO WANT TO BE @ 100LBS LOST BY THEN. I am at 216 as of last night, that’s 88.5lbs. I worked out 4X already this week and am planning on going 2X this weekend! I also need to shop...I gave away all my clothes since surgery to either Clothing Exchange, Good Will/Salvation Army or my AMOS friends in NYC. However, what is left in my closet is NOTHING...I am not dropping weight as quickly as I am dropping sizes. I have gone from a 20-18-16 in pants since Xmas and have only experienced 13lbs lose! I hate spending the money on things I am only going to wear for a few wks. I work down on Wall Street, so, it’s not like I can look sloppy and where BIG CLOTHES! Anyway, I posted about wanting to start running, thank you to all that have emailed me. I also spoke with my friend who runs the marathon. I will be buying a GOOD pair of Running Shoes this weekend @ a Running Shoppe, no cheap franchise chains for me. Everyone who emailed me said BUY GOOD SHOES, and they maybe pricey! THAT’S OK, DON'T WANT TO HURT MYSELF! Oh, last thing, CALLING ALL NEW YORKERS....You must check out www.freshdirect.com. It is a grocery delivery service from the brother of the Fairway guy (no I don't work for them)...they have all this fresh food, meat, produce, etc. You even get $50 off your first order and they deliver next day! FABOULOUS! I found out about it from a DANCING PEICE OF FRUIT (an APPLE) on my way to the subway last week! P.S. It’s cheaper than the grocery stores!
2-3-03 I hit a road block...I was never much of a sweat eater pre-op, but yesterday, I COULD NOT PUT THE SPOON DOWN...I must have ate 1/5 of a 1/2 Gallon of Eddy’s SF Mint Chocolate Chip...Maybe its b/c of my monthly or maybe it was head hunger, or maybe it was b/c I lost control and I gave in. I also ate a whole Quarterpounder w/ Cheese from McD's.... (Not all in 1 sitting)...Other than that, may day was normal, plus I walked a couple miles. Anyone else have a day like this after 5 1/2 successful months of NEVER CHEATING?
2-6-03 Bought the cutest, sexiest DKNY slip dress last night @ Lord & Taylor, SIZE 10...Now, before you ask how can she get her 214 Lbs body in a 10, I bought it as INSPIRATION! I am a 14, but, all they had last night of this dress was a "2" and "10", now, I know I will be a 10 one day, but a 2? NEVER! Dress was $150 marked down to $41...What a steal, I can get it over my shoulders at this point & I will try it on once a month to keep me Honest! Anyone else buying great deals/steals in many sizes Smaller? The stores are practically giving the clothes away! Oh, last thing, BETTER made clothes from BETTER stores are made roomier. I still can't wear a 14 pants @ LB, but, can wear them anywhere else, weird huh?
2-9-03 Just got home from playing volleyball for a few hrs. They have these pickup games in the city with the League I belong to. Its $10 and you can play for 3-4 hours. I play on the
2-10-03 I am 6 days short of 6 mos and down 90.5lbs (8/15 - 305/214/150). Up until about 3 weeks ago, THIS SURGERY HAD BEEN A BREEZE! I haven't gotten sick since 2 wks post op, I can eat anything and everything, I don't dump, I exercise 5X week. HOWEVER, for the past few weeks, I find myself craving things and not making the best decisions. On top of all that, 50% of the time, I don't get full while eating. As such, I now incorporate drinking before and sometimes during my meals. My Nutrionist encouraged me to drink up until 5 minutes before I start eating so that I am fuller faster. But, that doesn't seem to help either. Yesterday, I ate a whole McD's Quarter Pounder w/ Cheese and wasn't full. For dinner last night, I had some ceaser salad and 2 stuffed Shells...STILL NOT FULL! I feel as though I have stretched my pouch! I also have only lost 6lbs this month and feel it maybe ending. Someone also told me that since I have never lost any hair, that I may not get maximum weight loss. I act so brave and determined on the outside and yet I am scared to death in the inside. I am so scared I am going to fail and that I may either stop losing or gain everything back! I really want to lose another 64lbs, I also want to maintain this loss...I take my vitamins, I work out 5 days a week, I drink a ton of water and I eat at least 80g of protein...HELP!
2-11-03 And so the saga continues, I ate so well yesterday until I came home: (breakfast) 2 eggs, 1 turkey sausage patty, (lunch) romaine salad with black beans, cheese, chicken, carrots and egg w/ parmesan peppercorn dressing, (snack) Zone Protein bar (dinner) 12 Lg Shrimp w/ Cocktail sauce and (snack) 2 Pepperidge Farm Nantucket Cookies w/ LG glass of Skim Milk...Now, (I know I was around 12oo calories and 60g+ of protein, HOWEVER, did I REALLY NEED THOSE COOKIES? I think I learned my lesson and maybe found out my dumping threshold. Those cookies made me SO NAUSEOUS! I tried to throw them up, but, couldn't...Wouldn't be eating that again anything soon. Also, I emailed my dtr asking for a test, any test to see if I stretched my pouch, his extact words were "Your weight loss is on schedule. The earliest sign of a structural problem with the surgery is rapid weight GAIN. The reality is that your pouch does stretch. This is normal. The bypass protects you from absorbing excessive calories, RELAX"...So, the saga continues, another day, another chance to NOT SCREW UP...The scale did move a lb though between last week and today, I am down to 213, that’s 92lbs and I am 4 days away from my 6 mos aniv. Playing Volleyball again tonight, so, that will be 2 workouts in 1 day...Maybe I can sweat off some calories. Thanks to all of you who emailed me and posted on the boards yesterday about my dilemma. I LOVE YOU GUYS...
2-12-03 Well, for the past few days I have been complaining about my BAD choices, well, after those 2 Pepperidge Farm cookies Monday night, I ended the drama yesterday! I ate fabulously (oh, by the way, ZONE has anew protein bar DOUBLE CHOCLATE, FAB!!!), I also walked 1/2 mile to the gym in the morning, worked out for 40 minutes, played vball last night for an hr and I walked to and from vball, that’s a total of 2 miles. I am EXHAUSTED today, but, I feel AWESOME! Nothing is as good as thin feels!
2-12-03 (2nd time in 1 DAY!) Just made an appointment to meet with a personal trainer starting Monday.
2-13-03 Well, I was sooooo good on Tuesday, and then last night I GAVE IN TO THE SWEET TOOTH AGAIN! I went out around 9pm scouring NYC for Detour Bars, ALL SOLD OUT! I'm not buying a case of anything till I try one; I have had too many nasty protein bars. Well, I picked up some ice cream for my hubby @ Hagen Das and I got SF frozen yogurt with SF Choc Fudge, I ate like 1/2 VERY fast and felt so NASTY! When will I ever learn...I was never this much of a sweet eater pre-op, so what gives? Other than my period starting in a few days, WHO THE HECK KNOWS?
July 2002
7-2-02 Thanks for all the support and emails I have been getting. I would really like to talk to some women around my age (31) and weight (5'5" and 291) with no health problems so I can ask some questions about their progress and their feelings. Also, anyone who is in the NYC area, please also respond. Happy 4th of July Everyone.
7-9-02 Well, on the personal front, my husband and I have bought an apt in the city. Very excited....however, now, I am trying to decide if I should put off my surgery date (8-15) till after closing (9-15). I currently live in a 4th Floor Walk-up in NYC and I am afraid that I wouldn't be as motivated to walk and exercise after surgery if I live in a 4th floor walk up. I wouldn't have that problem with the new place. Plus, I will be a short 7 block walk from my Doctor's office.....Am I just making excuses and fishing? HELP!
7-16-02 30 Days! 30 Days till my surgery....I am soooo excited and still scared. Spoke to my insurance today and they, PHS HealthNet, had the NERVE to tell me that my doctor was out of network and I was responsible for 20%....I about flipped out and ripped the CSR a new a..hole. But, much to my relief, there was an incompetent employee and PHS/HealthNet that entered "Michael Leitman instead of I. Michael Leitman". And, as quick as it went bad, it was good again! WHAT A RELIEF!
7-19-02 Had to miss Support Group @ Lenox Hill on Thursday much to my dismay. I had to go out of town on business. I really wanted to attend since this would be the last one prior to my surgery date. However, when I realized I had to go to
7-26-02 Going on vacation tomorrow with my husband and family to the
