jeng
I'm hot just not as hot as I used to be:)
May 10, 2009
I had one of those Aha! moments a few weeks ago. I don't get as hot anymore. What I mean, is that I used to overheat all the time. I would wear short-sleeves in the winter, my face was always flushed and anytime the temperature was above 70 degrees, I was uncomfortable. It hit me a few weekends ago when I decided to go hiking in 90 degree weather. I would NEVER have done that a year ago. I am loving this change.
I recently hit the six month post-surgery mark. I have lost 79 lbs. since surgery and 106 lbs. since I began the journey. I can't even begin to list the ways that my life has changed. This is the best decision I have ever made. I look forward to each day. Exercise is actually something that I enjoy doing now--crazy, I know:)
There are two side effects of this surgery that I could do without: hair loss and flabby skin. To combat the hair loss, I am taking mega-doses of Biotin and using special (and pricey) hair products. The hair is still falling out. For the flabby skin...I work out 4-5 times a week. I have been taking a Pilates class. In the next month or two, I am going to join a gym and try to take some classes for toning. Any other thoughts or suggestions?
Congrats to all my fellow six-monthers! We did it!!!
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I recently hit the six month post-surgery mark. I have lost 79 lbs. since surgery and 106 lbs. since I began the journey. I can't even begin to list the ways that my life has changed. This is the best decision I have ever made. I look forward to each day. Exercise is actually something that I enjoy doing now--crazy, I know:)
There are two side effects of this surgery that I could do without: hair loss and flabby skin. To combat the hair loss, I am taking mega-doses of Biotin and using special (and pricey) hair products. The hair is still falling out. For the flabby skin...I work out 4-5 times a week. I have been taking a Pilates class. In the next month or two, I am going to join a gym and try to take some classes for toning. Any other thoughts or suggestions?
Congrats to all my fellow six-monthers! We did it!!!
New attitude
Feb 16, 2009
I have noticed over the past few months...even prior to the surgery, my attitude towards life had shifted. It was gradual. I think I started to notice the attitude adjustment when I made the decision to have WLS. Once I had decided to do something to change my situation and that I was worth it, I felt good. Really good. This new attitude feels wonderful. It makes everything so much better.
To date, I have lost 61 lbs. since surgery. Added to the 28 lbs. I lost before surgery, I am down 89 lbs!! Whoa!!! I went clothes shopping for the first time this past weekend. I was shocked that I could fit into a size 16. I almost started crying in the dressing room.
I had a bit of a stall in January. I think I was eating too many carbs and not enough protein. Once I boosted up the amount of protein, the weight started coming off again. I continue to drink at least two protein shakes a day. I am exercising 4-5 times a week. I am thinking that I might invest in a personal trainer. I have noticed that I have some sagging skin on my arms and tummy. I know that plastic surgery is a possible solution in the future but I feel that I should exhaust other options first. I have noticed that I am losing quite a bit of hair...and it is freaking me out! I don't have any bald spots but I can tell that my hair is thinner than normal. My support group members promise me that it is only temporary. I knew that hair loss is a common side effect of the surgery. I am taking Biotin on a daily basis. Don't know if it is (or will) make a difference but it's worth a shot, right?
Well, I hope the weight keeps falling off but not the hair:)
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To date, I have lost 61 lbs. since surgery. Added to the 28 lbs. I lost before surgery, I am down 89 lbs!! Whoa!!! I went clothes shopping for the first time this past weekend. I was shocked that I could fit into a size 16. I almost started crying in the dressing room.
I had a bit of a stall in January. I think I was eating too many carbs and not enough protein. Once I boosted up the amount of protein, the weight started coming off again. I continue to drink at least two protein shakes a day. I am exercising 4-5 times a week. I am thinking that I might invest in a personal trainer. I have noticed that I have some sagging skin on my arms and tummy. I know that plastic surgery is a possible solution in the future but I feel that I should exhaust other options first. I have noticed that I am losing quite a bit of hair...and it is freaking me out! I don't have any bald spots but I can tell that my hair is thinner than normal. My support group members promise me that it is only temporary. I knew that hair loss is a common side effect of the surgery. I am taking Biotin on a daily basis. Don't know if it is (or will) make a difference but it's worth a shot, right?
Well, I hope the weight keeps falling off but not the hair:)
It really is a Happy New Year!
Jan 01, 2009
All day today, I have been reflecting on 2008 and thinking about all the life changes I have made. I am so happy and proud of myself. It feels so great to be in control of my weight and not be living my life with food on my mind all the time. Here's to 2009...it's shaping up to be a great year!
I went to see my surgeon on 12/31 for a two-month checkup. I have lost 42 lbs. since surgery. Adding in the 28 lbs. I lost prior to surgery, I have lost a total of 70 lbs.!!! My dr. says that I am right on track. He told me that the first six months are the biggest weight loss months. I have been trying to exercise 4-5 times a week but I have to admit that I have been slacking off during the holidays. I will do better.
I have been given the ok to add chicken and vegetables into my diet. Veggies never tasted so good:) Up to this point, I have had no dumping. I have thrown up once when I overate but I learned my lesson...stop eating at the first sign of being full.
Happy 2009!
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I went to see my surgeon on 12/31 for a two-month checkup. I have lost 42 lbs. since surgery. Adding in the 28 lbs. I lost prior to surgery, I have lost a total of 70 lbs.!!! My dr. says that I am right on track. He told me that the first six months are the biggest weight loss months. I have been trying to exercise 4-5 times a week but I have to admit that I have been slacking off during the holidays. I will do better.
I have been given the ok to add chicken and vegetables into my diet. Veggies never tasted so good:) Up to this point, I have had no dumping. I have thrown up once when I overate but I learned my lesson...stop eating at the first sign of being full.
Happy 2009!
Success!
Dec 13, 2008
After feeling like a failure every time I tried to lose weight and get healthy, it feels wonderful to finally be successful. I lost 28 lbs. before surgery and am down 32 pounds since surgery for a 60 lb. total!! I have dropped a clothing size and it has been so fun to go through my closet and wear things that had been too tight.
My menu still consists of eggs, tofu, seafood/fish and cheese. I usually drink 2-3 protein shakes a day to make sure that I get in the 70 grams of recommended protein. At this point, I rarely feel hungry. I have "head hunger" and recognize that things look and smell delicious but it is not consuming like it was pre-WLS.
I have been back to work now for two weeks. I was very tired in the evenings during the first week but last week was much better. My coworkers have been very supportive and check in frequently. They are quick with the compliments:)
Before I went back to work, I was exercising 5-6 times a week. Now that I have more energy, My goal is to get back to working out 5 times a week.
I love being on the losing side!!!
My menu still consists of eggs, tofu, seafood/fish and cheese. I usually drink 2-3 protein shakes a day to make sure that I get in the 70 grams of recommended protein. At this point, I rarely feel hungry. I have "head hunger" and recognize that things look and smell delicious but it is not consuming like it was pre-WLS.
I have been back to work now for two weeks. I was very tired in the evenings during the first week but last week was much better. My coworkers have been very supportive and check in frequently. They are quick with the compliments:)
Before I went back to work, I was exercising 5-6 times a week. Now that I have more energy, My goal is to get back to working out 5 times a week.
I love being on the losing side!!!
Thank goodness for a menu change!
Nov 18, 2008
I went for a three-week post surgical check-up yesterday and all is well. Yeah!!! My surgeon said that my weight loss was right on track and that I could change my diet. I have been given the o.k. for eggs, tofu, fish/seafood (NO shrimp) and soft cheese. He reminded me to chew thirty times with each bite and not to drink 20 minutes before a meal and 40 minutes after a meal. I was also given the thumbs-up to go back to my regular exercise program as long as I don't lift more than 10 lbs.
I went to a Gastric Bypass support group last week. It was very interesting and informative. Many of the group members have excellent ideas for newbies like me:) One of the suggestions that I heard was to get a medical i.d. bracelet. After RNY surgery, we can't have an NG tube or NSAIDS (ibuprophen etc.). I verified this information with my surgeon. I am going to try and find something *cute* since I will have to wear it permanently. Another great suggestion I heard is to keep an Aha! Moment journal. They told me that it is very rewarding to have a record of all of the accomplishments after surgery plus it can help to get you refocused, if needed.
I went to a Gastric Bypass support group last week. It was very interesting and informative. Many of the group members have excellent ideas for newbies like me:) One of the suggestions that I heard was to get a medical i.d. bracelet. After RNY surgery, we can't have an NG tube or NSAIDS (ibuprophen etc.). I verified this information with my surgeon. I am going to try and find something *cute* since I will have to wear it permanently. Another great suggestion I heard is to keep an Aha! Moment journal. They told me that it is very rewarding to have a record of all of the accomplishments after surgery plus it can help to get you refocused, if needed.
Dreaming of Protein Shakes
Nov 06, 2008
I am now 7 days out. I am feeling pretty good. No complications. Thank goodness! I went for a post-op appt. with my surgeon and he seemed to think that things are right on track. He keeps his patients on a liquid diet for three weeks after surgery. So I am enjoying lots of sugar-free jello, sugar-free popsicles, protein shakes and crystal light. I am looking forward to the next stage when i can have soft foods like eggs and grits...my mouth is watering just thinking about it:) From what I have read, it seems like each surgeon is a little bit different in terms of post-op diets.
As promised, here is my surgical experience:
I had RNY on 10/29/08 at Holy Cross Hospital in Silver Spring, MD. I arrived at the hospital at 11:30 a.m. Surgery was scheduled for 1:30 p.m. From the moment I walked into the hospital, everyone was very warm, friendly and helpful. I checked in at the registration desk and filled out some final paperwork. My family set up camp in the waiting room. It wasn't too long until i was called back to begin prepping for the surgery. This is where the waiting really began. I changed into the totally chic hospital gown and was weighed. My vitals were taken and the IV was started. At this point, my family was invited to come back and wait with me. We were informed that my surgeon was going to be delayed due to some minor complications with the current surgical patient. Finally around 3:30, I hugged my family and walked, that's right, walked into the OR. Once on the operating table, I was given some medicine and off to sleepytime I went.
I woke up in the recovery room around 9:00 p.m. Not feeling much. Just very drowsy. I was taken to my room around 11:00 p.m. My family was there waiting for me...yeah! Around 1:00 a.m., a nurse came in to tell me that the catheter was coming out at 2:00 a.m. I must have looked at her like she had two heads. Sure enough, around 2:00 a.m., the catheter came out and I got up to go to the bathroom. It was very uncomfortable to move around. I did a lap around the hallway. Because the IV was pumping so many fluids into me, I had to get up about every hour so I tried to do a lap each time.
Around 8:00 a.m., I was taken to get the swallow study done to check for leaks. I passed and could not wait to get back to the room to have some liquids. My mouth and lips were so dry. I continued getting up to walk and after a dr. came in and checked on me, I was discharged. Less than 24 hours after the actual surgery, i was on my way home. Amazing!
As promised, here is my surgical experience:
I had RNY on 10/29/08 at Holy Cross Hospital in Silver Spring, MD. I arrived at the hospital at 11:30 a.m. Surgery was scheduled for 1:30 p.m. From the moment I walked into the hospital, everyone was very warm, friendly and helpful. I checked in at the registration desk and filled out some final paperwork. My family set up camp in the waiting room. It wasn't too long until i was called back to begin prepping for the surgery. This is where the waiting really began. I changed into the totally chic hospital gown and was weighed. My vitals were taken and the IV was started. At this point, my family was invited to come back and wait with me. We were informed that my surgeon was going to be delayed due to some minor complications with the current surgical patient. Finally around 3:30, I hugged my family and walked, that's right, walked into the OR. Once on the operating table, I was given some medicine and off to sleepytime I went.
I woke up in the recovery room around 9:00 p.m. Not feeling much. Just very drowsy. I was taken to my room around 11:00 p.m. My family was there waiting for me...yeah! Around 1:00 a.m., a nurse came in to tell me that the catheter was coming out at 2:00 a.m. I must have looked at her like she had two heads. Sure enough, around 2:00 a.m., the catheter came out and I got up to go to the bathroom. It was very uncomfortable to move around. I did a lap around the hallway. Because the IV was pumping so many fluids into me, I had to get up about every hour so I tried to do a lap each time.
Around 8:00 a.m., I was taken to get the swallow study done to check for leaks. I passed and could not wait to get back to the room to have some liquids. My mouth and lips were so dry. I continued getting up to walk and after a dr. came in and checked on me, I was discharged. Less than 24 hours after the actual surgery, i was on my way home. Amazing!
4 Days Post-Op
Nov 02, 2008
I'm home! Actually, I have been home since Thursday but am just now getting around to updating. The surgery and hospital stay went very smoothly. I was out of recovery at 11 p.m. and walking laps by 2 a.m...although, the nurses didn't give me much of a choice:) I am sore but off the pain meds. I am working on getting in all of my protein and water. I feel like I never stop drinking. I will update later with more details regarding the surgery and my recovery. Looks like it's time for another sip of water!
Less than 24 hours...
Oct 28, 2008
I thought I would be more nervous than I am today. I am sure that the butterflies will arrive when I get to the hospital tomorrow:) My mom, dad and sister are coming to stay with me tonight and for the next week or so. I feel so very blessed to have their support.
I called my insurance company yesterday to double-check on my coverage. I was so happy and relieved to hear that the surgery is covered 100% by Kaiser. I feel so fortunate to have excellent insurance. I know many current and former WLS patients have had to pay out-of-pocket. It also puts a smile on my face to know that insurance companies are coming around (slowly!) and recognizing that WLS is a valuable tool for individuals fighting obesity and it will save them money in the long run.
I don't know if I'll post again until after I return home from the hospital so, if not, see ya on the losing side!
I called my insurance company yesterday to double-check on my coverage. I was so happy and relieved to hear that the surgery is covered 100% by Kaiser. I feel so fortunate to have excellent insurance. I know many current and former WLS patients have had to pay out-of-pocket. It also puts a smile on my face to know that insurance companies are coming around (slowly!) and recognizing that WLS is a valuable tool for individuals fighting obesity and it will save them money in the long run.
I don't know if I'll post again until after I return home from the hospital so, if not, see ya on the losing side!
Can I have another popsicle?
Oct 27, 2008
I went for pre-surgical testing this morning at Holy Cross Hospital in Silver Spring, MD and I was very impressed with the staff. Everyone that I met, from parking attendant to lab tech to RN, was helpful and friendly. The entire process went so smoothly. It was the kind of reassurance that I needed, being so close to my surgery date.
I stopped at GNC and picked up some more protein powder (Chocolate Caramel!!!), biotin and iron. I went to the grocery store one last time prior to surgery to pick up various items. So, I feel like I am ready to go. My plan is to spend the rest of today cleaning the house. Not very exciting but necessary.
I read a posting from an OH member and she listed the items to pack for the hospital. Thanks so much! I am including my list so that maybe it can help someone too.
loose fitting jammies
clothes/shoes for arrival and departure
undergarments
chap-stick
magazines/books
shampoo/conditioner/soap
face wash
pillow
slippers
toothbrush/toothpaste
CPAP machine
insurance card
picture ID
I stopped at GNC and picked up some more protein powder (Chocolate Caramel!!!), biotin and iron. I went to the grocery store one last time prior to surgery to pick up various items. So, I feel like I am ready to go. My plan is to spend the rest of today cleaning the house. Not very exciting but necessary.
I read a posting from an OH member and she listed the items to pack for the hospital. Thanks so much! I am including my list so that maybe it can help someone too.
loose fitting jammies
clothes/shoes for arrival and departure
undergarments
chap-stick
magazines/books
shampoo/conditioner/soap
face wash
pillow
slippers
toothbrush/toothpaste
CPAP machine
insurance card
picture ID
So close...
Oct 26, 2008
I am only 3 days away! I am scheduled for surgery on Wednesday, October 29, 2008. OH has been such a help during this process. It has been so comforting and inspiring to read stories from individuals that have gone through what I am experiencing.
I am currently hitting two weeks on a liquid diet. It actually is not as bad as I thought it was going to be. The protein shakes keep me full. However, I can't say that I am satisfied. I would kill for a cheeseburger and french fries!! Tomorrow morning I am going to meet with the anesthesiologist for a pre-op appointment. I have some last minute items to pick up in preparation for the surgery and then I am going to lay low prior to Wednesday. I am feeling a bit paranoid about getting sick before the surgery and not being able to have it because I have a cold or a fever. Well, I am off to have a sugar-free popsicle. Yummy!
I am currently hitting two weeks on a liquid diet. It actually is not as bad as I thought it was going to be. The protein shakes keep me full. However, I can't say that I am satisfied. I would kill for a cheeseburger and french fries!! Tomorrow morning I am going to meet with the anesthesiologist for a pre-op appointment. I have some last minute items to pick up in preparation for the surgery and then I am going to lay low prior to Wednesday. I am feeling a bit paranoid about getting sick before the surgery and not being able to have it because I have a cold or a fever. Well, I am off to have a sugar-free popsicle. Yummy!
About Me
Silver Spring, MD
Location
31.9
BMI
Surgery
10/29/2008
Surgery Date
Oct 26, 2008
Member Since
