Once upon a time, a month ago today...

I was sleeved!!!  And I couldn't be happier!  I have had no real problems.  I was well aware of what may/not occur, thanks to the great info on this site.  I spent one night in the hospital, per my choice (I could have spent one more).  I did fine at home, propped up in my own bed on a truckload of pillows.

My first month has been challenging at times, though.  I went through some hormonal issues the first week in which I cried uncontrollably (and still don't know why).  It lasted two days.  Pain for me lasted til the 4th post-op day.  After that, I was sore but didn't require any meds.  Strangely enough, I have had more nausea over the weekend than I have had since surgery.  I am taking Nexium twice a day; so, I am not sure why.  However, for the most part, everything has been okay.

I am still trying to adjust to my diet.  I am on soft foods until 6 wks.  Honestly, I don't think I have met my fluid/protein goals very many days.  I am really trying, but...I do fall short.  My diet plan goal is 6 small meals a day.  It is hard to do when I have to wait 30 mins before and after meals.  The times just seem to run together, and I am just not hungry that often (big NSV!).  i have found that chicken isn't very sleeve friendly for me.  I can tolerate well cooked streaks, ground turkey/sausage, and fish.  Thanks to Eggface, I have found creative ways to disguise eggs, since I have never liked them.  The various "bites" obscure the flavor, as does using liquid egg whites.  I have some form of tilapia every day.

As far as weight loss:

Week 1:  21 lbs
Week 2:    7 lbs
Week 3:    3 lbs
Week 4:    0 lbs.

I have lost inches.  I don't plan on measuring until my 6 wk visit with the NUT.  I know I am in a stall and am not happy about it; but, I expected it.  Hopefully, it will not last too long.

I feel so much better.  I can only walk as exercise till 6 wks.  I am up to five miles a day now, without needing to use my inhaler.  I have so much more energy now even though I still have many more pounds to lose.

I have gone from a tight 3x to a nicely fitting 2x.  I am in clothes now that I have not worn since at least 2007.   Not so good, I return to work tomorrow,\; and my 3x uniform pants fit like I have a saggy, wet diaper on.
My foot is one shoe size smaller in a medium, not wide, wdith. 
Unfortunately, I think, I have lost a bra size, from 44 DDD to 42 DD. 
I can was my own back all over, and without getting muscle cramps from twisting.
I can enjoy my jet sprays in my tub because I am not blocking them.
The dark patches of diabetes on my neck are lighter, and nearly all gone on my cheeks.
I am off the one diabetes pill, and two insulins (85 units Lantus and Novolog 3-4x/day per sliding scale).  Discont'd since one week post-op.

I do have the constant fear of failure and regain, like I had countless times in the past.  However, I let motivate me whenever I consider eating something unhealthy, or when I don't feel like exercising.  My "fat" picture, with my highest weight, is posted on my refrigerator to remind me when I want to make poor choices. 

I am nowhere near goal, but I am glad to be on my way.  This is how my first month's journey has been.  Thanks for reading this kinda long post.  If anyone is one the fence about this surgery, just know it is the best thing I have done for myself in ??? years.

Khem
 

Good luck!! You're doing great!

Thank you.  We're in this together.  Good luck on your journey, too,


Edited for spelling.

 What about your stress levels?  Stress can cause your symptoms and even cause weight gains.

Also you might be having reactions to artificial sweetners - if I eat any type of artificial sweetner I get reflux, headache, and rash.  Except for splenda.  

Yes, moderate stress levels.  It's taking me a while toplow through some issues, too.  As for sweetners, those in Crystal Light or WalMart equivalents I drink several times a day.   I also had reflux issues preop, but it was controlled. 

I had my surgery feb 1st and  will be 2 months in a few days out.
I so can relate to your share. Thank you very much.

I feel we will be successful if we keep on keeping on.  One day at a time...  sometimes one moment at a time.  

Sometimes I  think I am so in love with this sleeve....  but it is me I am falling in love with.
I too fear of returning to old behaviors....  Slowly but surely my head changes,  but cant help when the old tapes play.

I so relate to your grattitude, fearm and your physical body changes...like simpley being able to walk..  that is a real big deal for me too....etc.   again thanks for sharing.

"I feel we will be successful if we keep on keeping on.  One day at a time...  sometimes one moment at a time."  

I have to keep this in mind.  Even though it is nowhere near realistic, I would love wake up 50 lbs lighter a few times!  But, you're right; sometimes one moment at a time.  With my sleeve, I can take the gradual loss and hope never to have to visit this part of the journey again.

And, thank you.

Khem

Thank you so much for sharing Khem, and congratulations !

You're welcome.  We will be reading about your success in about 6 weeks!

Its so great to read about your progress Wow!! I am glad you mentioned hormonal up/downs initally out i was very cranky this is my first week out tomorrow is the start of my week 2 your posts inspires and encourages...
I look forward to reading yours more often