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Surgeon Testimonial Alexander Nagle, MD Dr. Nagle and his team did a wonderful job. My whole experience from consultation to approval to surgery went without any complication. Everyone knew what to do and when to do it. This has been a great experience and I feel much better 2 weeks post-op than I ever expected I would. I would encourage everyone to keep in mind that the process with NMH does not go fast and to be patient. Their program is worth it. Member Interests
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My Story I had my RNY surgery in April 2007. It was by far the best decision that I have ever made for myself. In the first year post-op, I lost over 150lbs, over 80 inches and 8 clothing sizes. Since my surgery I've also finished my master's degree, got a fabulous new job and bought my first home. If you want it - do it. Never say can't. I am living proof that things CAN change and you CAN hit every goal you set. Nobody is going to do it for you. You want what I have? Here's what I did. It's pretty simple. 1. Research and find the BEST surgeon. Not the guy who did the commercial. Not the guy who takes your insurance. Find a surgeon with experience and credentials, and then get references. Do your homework. 2. Eat. Get your protein in. Measure your meals, slow down and chew. 3. Exercise. For me it has been a 30-60 min cardio workout 3x per week and 60 min strength training sessions 1-2x per week. Make it a priority. You will get zero sympathy from me, I juggled it into a schedule with a full time job, night school, job-required travel and family obligations. That's what alarm clocks are for. My bed was empty by 5am MANY mornings. Making excuses is not exercise :-) 4. Vitamins. My regimen is: A good multi (New Chapter Organic Every Woman), calcium citrate (250mg twice daily) and B-12 injections every 3 months. My 6 and 12 month labs were perfect. 5. Don't weigh yourself every day. You're just setting yourself up for being disappointed if you do. Because guess what? We retain water. Weigh weekly and get on with your life. 6. Get help. I wasn't fat because of the size of my stomach. I was fat because I ate my emotions. Find a new outlet. I am surrounded with friends who have also had the surgery (I sought them out) and I am actively seeking professional help. It really helps to talk stuff out. And no, I am not embarrassed that I need a shrink. I wish more people would consider therapy :-) 7. Have fun. RNY is not a punishment or a life sentence. I spent months obsessing over how many calories I was eating and how many grams of protein, carbs, and I lost this many pounds and this percentage and blah, blah, blah..... Once I let it go and just used my head, the weight started melting away. Those are my "pearls". I am starting my blog over at 14 months post-op because I honestly feel like I am a completely different person than I was when I started this journey. I'm all about new beginnings. ** RUNNING THE CHICAGO MARATHON ON OCTOBER 12, 2008.** This is the next goal on my radar. I am running on behalf of Children's Memorial Hospital in Chicago. If you could pledge a couple of bucks, please PM me. Every dollar does some good. CMH is an amazing place and does wonderful work for kids and their families. |
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