DivaLicia
09/14/04
My surgery date is October 12th and it seems so far away, but I have waited for three years, so I can wait a few more weeks.
My husband and I met with Dr. Olsen last week and he answered every question we had. He was very open about the risks, which I thought would scare my husband, but his knowledge, candor and the reputation of Centenniel helped put all my fears to rest. I am ready for the next step. I am ready to get on with my life and finally shed this excess weight.
My insurance finally approved the surgery (after what seems like forever). I got the letter on August 31st. I called Dr. Olsen's office and am now scheduled to see him on September 9th! I am so excited it's hard to contain. It seems like I have been fighting all this time to be approved, and now that I am, I don't know what the next step is.
But I will keep you posted!
9/18/04
I GOT A DATE! I GOT A DATE! - OCTOBER 12TH IS MY SURGERY DATE! WOW!
9/21/04
I had all my pre surgery tests done yesterday, met with the dietian and went over all the upcoming dinner plans : ) and I paid my deposit to my surgeon. So I am all clear for the big day. Everyday I look in the mirror and say, not much longer big girl, your days are numbered..... not much longer. I am looking forward to shopping for a new wardrobe and looking at a new body.
9/30
Ok! Now I am both nervous and excited! I went to the memorial page today and read about some of those who have passed away. Even though I know that I am making the right decision for me, it was kinda rough reading about those who had complications and now are longer with us. But after looking at that I then looked at the before and after pictures and now I feel alot better. It amazes me to see the transformations of those who chose to have a better life. TWO WEEKS TO GO! YIPEEEEEEE!
10/5
Just 7 days to go! Wow! I really need to go and get my shopping done - you know the broth, bottled water, protein drinks, splenda, etc. Next week will be here before I know it. It seemed so far away, and now it's literally a week away. I can hardly get any work done at work because my mind keeps slipping away, and then I log onto the site and look at more before and after pictures (don't tell my boss! lol) I need to stop procrastinating and get my shopping done tonight. 7 days, huh? The countdown begins!
10/21
My surgery was a success, I spent 4 days in the hospital. And I will write more when I have a bit more strength. Thank you everyone for your prayers and emails. I really appreciate them more than you know. I just hope all this nausea will pass soon, it is difficult to get my liquids down without feeling like my stomach is going to rip into pieces.
Until next time
October 28, 2004
Wow! I feel so much better now. My sleep apnea is gone, my blood pressure is back to normal without medication. I have lost 20 pounds already. Reality is great! I am exercising now (not a lot, but some) and my clothes are too big. I am so glad about this life changing decision.
November 9, 2004
Went to the doctor for a checkup and am doing extremely well. I have lost 27 pounds and I feel great! The only challenge is getting the liquids (64 oz) in and taking the vitamins. These to things alone are MAJOR, so the struggle continues.................
My clothes are sagging and I love it! Almost time for shopping!
December 17, 2004
Okay I know it's been forever since I have updated my profile, needless to say, since I have been feeling better, I don't sit in front of the tv and computer like I used to. I am doing pretty well, I have lost a total of 43 pounds! WOW!
I had been concerned because the scale has not budged in at least 2 weeks, so I start thinking, am I going to fail this time too. But once I read other success stories I realize that we all reach plateaus at some point where the scale literally stands still. One of the reasons for me is that I am not getting all of my liquids in because it makes me feel so full all the time. I realize now that I can't sit a 32 oz cup in front of me and try to finish it over a period of time. I do much better with a small cup (16 oz) and once I finish that, I feel like I have accomplished something, so I am encouraged to get more. May not work for you, but it works for me.
The protein thing I really try to adhere to because I am scared of losing my hair (it's already short, I can't afford to lose any) lol. I have gone from a size 22/24 to a size 20 and some 18's. I must admit that I do look good! lol
Anyway, until next time. Be encouraged and if you have a bad day where you didn't take your vitamins, get your liquids in, didn't get 60 grams of protein, or ate too many carbs, there's always tomorrow! Don't beat yourself up, try again.
FEBRUARY 23, 2005
Ok.......... drum roll please..............Total of 67 pounds lost! I am totally pleased with myself! I am doing water aerobics twice a week and I feel really good. Liquids are still a challenge, but as long as I keep trying, I will be ok.
Until next time!
APRIL 5, 2005
Spring is finally here and I am feeling really really good. I am truly thankful that I have my health and strength back. God is Good! I have lost 79 pounds and am in 16's and 18's - that's a long way from 26's and 24's. What more can I say..............
JULY 2005
Well, I had my 10 year class reunion and man - I had a good time. I didn't have the surgery thinking anything about a class reunion, but when I got the invitation for the reunion, there was no question, I WAS GOING. Imagine if I still weighed over 300 pounds, do you really think I would go???? NOT!
But I had a great time seeing old classmates who didn't have a clue that less than a year ago I was twice the person that they remembered. I am feeling great these days and I'm trying to get back to some type of exercise program, cause I've kind of dropped off. Pray for me! lol
DECEMBER 2005
Well, I made it through Thanksgiving and it's almost Christmas. Last Christmas was good and this Christmas is going to be great! I have lost a total of 111 pounds and life is good.
For those of you considering gastric bypass - it's been a journey worth taking - what are you waiting for?
Ok, It has been too long. Once you lose your weight and start living again, you think that you are set for life - Well, the struggle does continue FOR LIFE.
I have lost a total of 122 pounds and I feel and look great; however, those demons keep revisiting me everytime I get bored or depressed, or mad, or whatever. Food is my comfort and reward for everything. Is this not the reason why I weighed over 300 pounds.
Self control and dedication to a healthy lifestyle are the keys to LONGTIME SUCCESS. Do we want to keep the weight off? Do we want to remain healthy? Do we want to be around for our families and friends? I think the answer is yes to all questions. So what's the solution? Gotta get off my butt and exercise, drink that water, eat that protein first, and LEAVE THEM SWEETS AND WHITE PROCESSED FOODS ALONE!
Come on people! Get with the program! I hope I am movitivating someone out there - cause I sure need motivation!
Until next time!
About Me
Before & After
rollover to see after photo
