LadyDi9080
Over the years of fighting and loosing this “condition”, I have dieted myself into a morbid obese state. I’ve participated in several physician supervised programs while battling my weight since fifth grade. When puberty hit, I was able to control my weight through shear will power and activities. Into my teens, I weighed about 160lbs, which was ok if you were almost 6 feet tall (I was 5'11"). I hung out with people 5 feet tall and weighed 100 pounds. I thought I was HUGE! I maintained this weight into my twenties with the help of over the counter medications, like AIDS (a chewy candy), Dexatrim, and working my butt off. In 1980 I tried the Cambridge Diet and lost about 20 pounds by drinking their shakes and not eating. I regained the weight plus more. In 1983, I went on the Adkins Diet while weighing in at 190. I lost 20 pounds and regained 40. I joined the Diet Center and again lost weight – only to regain after the pills stopped. In '88, during an appointment while pregnant with my son, I saw the term “Morbidly Obese” on my chart at the OBGYN’s office. I was shocked because I did not consider myself morbidly obese – I was overweight and fat. After delivery, I was down to 240 and nursing takes 2000 extra calories a day.
I tried Opti-Fast in 1989 and lost 80+ pounds. Yep, regained that plus more!
In 1998, I decided to get in shape. My plan was to build big muscles so I would burn more calories while sitting on my butt! I started dieting doing no to low carbs for a week once a month, then working out to maintain the loss. My "Healthrider" was a good start for workouts! (I called it my "sex machine" because of the motion. )I lost 40 pounds then joined a gym. Even though I got up to working out 30 hours a week, I could not break below 220 pounds! I did the MS 150 bike ride. In year 2000 - I did 3 triathlons! That seems so long ago now. I'm not as big as when I started but I am at 295 and climbing! I hate the thought of starting over. I am "healthy" as any morbidly obese person can be at this point. My blood pressure has always been on the low side but now it is 130/96. That may not seem like much but it is very high for me.
I realize that taking this step will change my entire life, not to mention the way I celebrate life itself. The decision to start this process (which because of my insurance will be at least a year away) is because it has just been too hard. When I think of what I had to do just to be a "normal" size, I get tired. Today the insurance company asked for a list of diets I've tried. The list would be shorter if they had asked for the ones I didn't.
---------
Received the rejection letter telling me my right to appeal. The denial reason was that I had not been under a Dr's care for weight loss for a year and that I had not participated in an exercise program for a year. I have done both things but obtaining the "proof" is very hard. I called my gym to get a list of all the times I worked out, since I filled out the card every time I went. It appears that they do not keep those very long and the trainer I worked with had just quit two days before. Oh well, I'll supply dates and names but I was hoping to supply black and white documentation of working out 5 times a week for 3 years. My insurance company requires a one year program of supervised diet and exercise. I'm not sure if what I've done will suffice or not.
I am still thinking that this surgery is the only way for me now.
9/22/2004
I am actually sitting down putting everything together for insurance. Why I've postponed this since July, I don't know. I called the insurance company to find out how I can prove that I am not a substance abuser or crazy. I have to have an evaluation. I made my appointment for the Psychiatric evaluation for Monday. I contacted the person that used to work at the gym and he is writing a letter for me. I am jumping through all the insurance hoops. Hopefully, given my history, they won't require me to go through the one year program. I'll let you know more later!
10/18/2004
I received my denial to my appeal letter and was very disappointed. The insurance company wants me to go on their diet and see their nutritionist (as if seeing 2 for months was not enough). I felt that my letter was so well written that they could not deny me - but they did. I have lost (and found) over 400 pounds since I was in my mid twenties. I know how to loose weight you PEOPLE. It's the keeping it off that is hard. I'll call the "Education" folks at CHP and start the one year countdown - but I resent it. I am almost 50 years old and I feel like they are cheating me out of a year!
3/20/2005
Well, I've got to get things rolling again. I have to call my primary care dr. and get him to refer me AGAIN but this time for education. I met someone that has the same insurance and she told me to just hold on and jump through the hoops. I would self pay but my concern is if I have complications. I don't want excess medical bills for the unexpected. I'm sure any little thing would be attributed to the WLS by the insurance company. (Can I have this surgery without them knowing?) My goal is to have this by November of this year. It would be a great birthday present to me.
4/13/2005
I've been dragging my feet. I'd not made the phone calls that I needed to - and I've been beating myself up for it for months! Well, today I did it. I called my primary for yet another referral and I'll do what it takes. I got a little scared this month. I was PMS-ing and found I could eat mass quantities of food. I was in a dangerous binge cycle. The problem was, I never felt "full". I wondered if I would feel "full" after surgery and IF I could learn to stop before the full feeling. It would be nice just to eat to kill hunger. Instead I am killing myself by this food addiction. When you suffer from ….say alcohol addiction, and you go on a binge, don't they have places where you can go to "dry out". Why don't they have that for food addiction? The "Just Say No" is not that easy!
I'm not motivated to work out. My clothes don't fit and now, I wonder about breaking chairs when I sit down! My son (age 17) said that I THINK I am much larger than I really am. What does he know - he's just a kid. I told him that I could not go into the attic because I was too large for the stairs. Well, it is true! The limit on the stairs says 225.
Work is going well but I my size and weight are always THERE – causing me to doubt myself and my abilities. I am the same person that I was when I was thinner and healthier. Well, not really. I was more self confident and self assured. Today, I went to a retirement luncheon for a co-worker. There were 2 people that I worked on projects with 3 years ago and they did not recognize me. I did not bother to introduce myself and say hi. At a fund raiser the other evening, I saw a man that I had a horrible crush on when I was 17-20. He gave me my first job and I knew him (and his wife) very well. When he walked by, I saw him stare like he thought he knew me, but I turned my head and let him walk by. He was still cute, too! If I had been thinner, I would have said something and chit chatted for a few minutes. Yeah, I am not the same friendly, outgoing person that I am when I am thinner and healthier. Well, today I took another step. More later.
6/12/2005
I have an appointment with my insurance company June 21 to start the one year program. Funny, I thought I started it last year! Someone with the same insurance said that it would not be a year for me. I'd like surgery soon because I've been researching this for so long, I feel very prepared. (I even upped my life insurance - just in case.) My husband is very supportive but I've not told anyone in the family or work. It is just none of their business at this time. More later!
1/3/2006
I've jumped through the hoops and a lot has happened. My insurance will only pay for the RNY and although I really want this surgery - I really want the Sleeve Gastrectomy with Duodenal Switch and Bilio Pancreatic Diversion or BPD/DS for short. This is the one that I started researching years ago. I've decided to self pay and go to Brazil! My surgery is scheduled for March 15 and I'm very excited. Calm, cool and collected. Now, my sister hit the roof when I told her, even though she knows I've been "going through the process" for over a year. She just had to get used to the idea.
Now, I know the risk and this is one I'm willing to take. My son is going to graduate from high school this year and I want to be there for him. There are no guarantees but I feel very certain about this decision. I'll keep you posted!
2/3/2006
I define "coincidence" as a small miracle that God does not sign his name to. So many things have happened that tell me this is the right thing to do. I found out that an acquaintance teaches Portuguese and she gave me and DH a lesson. She knows the head of nutrition at the hospital where I'll be staying. She told me, "Oh, you met her son at my house – you remember …".
I have to have many pre op test – and I have completed some. Then, out of left field, I had a mammogram come back "not quite right". So, I had another and was told to have a followup in 6 months. My PCP wants me to see a surgeon. Then after doing the standard EKG, he did not like the looks of that either. So, now I have several doctor appointments on my calendar for the next week.
We are making our first ever will and that is a somewhat somber thought. I'm glad that I'll be able to leave a little something behind but hopefully, not for a very long time. Sometimes when I visit these message boards, it is easy to get swept away looking at the before and after photos and reading some of the profiles. To keep balanced, I visit the memorial page at obesityhelp.com. I read one yesterday that was heartbreaking. Again, it is not scary to me, but just a dose of reality. I told someone today that this is very serious surgery but I am doing this because I want to live a nice long life. I want to see my grandchildren (and I'm not about to rush my son to have any at 17!). I want to move again, go skiing in CO, swim with manatees like I used to. I want to hike in the mountains (NC, TN and CO.) Now, aerobic exercise is putting on panty hose (IF I find any that fit!).
I've got a little over a month until surgery. Next week I'll tell the people that need to know at work. I'm still not sure who I want to know. There is still a fear of failure because I've lost/gained/lost/gained so many times. People do treat you differently when you are fat.
I told my sister-in-law and her family about the surgery. She was very supportive and could not believe that I could keep a secret – that I was going through the approval process with my insurance company - for so long. I was very happy to hear something positive after my own sister's outburst. It meant a lot to me.
My husband (Dean) has been very supportive of whatever I do – and especially this procedure. He read the difference between the RNY and BPD/DS and there was no question which one to have. It did scare him when I mentioned raising my life insurance amount and doing the will thing, but he realizes that it makes sense. I've not written much about my personal life here but I will say that I'm married to a great guy that I like, respect, admire and love. (Yes, I think you can love someone without really liking them.) Both of my parents are deceased so I've adopted his family as my own – which is cool because my family loves him too – IF he doesn't try to tell them what to do. :-) My oldest brother died when he was 42. I have a sister (Mary) and a brother (Ray). I have one Aunt, and a few first cousins and some very dear nieces and grand nieces/nephew.
You know, I am really looking forward to leaning over to tie my shoes without getting winded! This bowling ball belly really does get in the way! I'm looking forward to normal size clothes, going down a shoe size (mine is a 12) and making love with me on top – again! (Watch out honey!) Now, I am going through all the emotions that I've read about here. I'm excited – and a bit scared but not overly so. I believe that everything is going to work out just fine! Watch out world….More later.
April 4, 2006
My surgery was March 15 in Curitiba, Brazil by the amazing Dr. Marchesini. For those that like to read profiles, let me touch on the time right after surgery.
I had told my husband that I could change my mind at any time up until the time I was unconscious on the table. Well, I didn't change my mind and all went well. I had to move from the operating table back to my bed but there was no pain in that. I was wheeled into the recovery area where I was so pleased that I could move my toes! I was ALIVE! I kept moving my legs, my toes, my hands, just to make sure I could and, in the back of my mind, was to prevent blood clots! The pain in my chest was like an elephant was standing on it! I just kept thinking, "This is as bad as it ever will be". I was in recovery for a couple of hours at least before being taken back to my room. Evil nurses wanted me to get up and walk that evening – which I did! (OK, they weren't evil, but I sure was comfortable in the bed!)
The physical therapist visited to teach me to cough, Dr. Marchesini came in to tell me that I did great. (Hey, all I did was lay there – he had the hard work!) He also presented me with my very own GALL STONE! It sure was a pretty one – light robin's egg blue. All my testing beforehand in the US did not find that.
Evidently, hubby did not notify folks fast enough about my progress and my wonderful Sister called the Doctor! He came to the hospital and told me how worried she was and that I needed to call her. How many US doctors would give patients and their families their home and cell phone numbers?
After 3 days in the hospital, I was ready to get out. I wanted to go back to the hotel. The release came when I pooped! Now, there is a cause for celebration – the plumbing works. The nurses at the hospital were wonderful and since I'd learned a few phrases of Portuguese, I didn't have a communication problem.
I met great people there that went though this journey a year before me and that was helpful. I also met other pre-ops who I could share my immediate experiences with. (You'd be surprised how much talk centers around poo…)
My husband was a wonderful caretaker and did everything I needed. It reminded me of the reasons I fell in love with him to begin with. The Brazil trip was great and after 3 days out of the hospital, I was on a train ride through the rainforest! Two weeks after surgery and a loss of 22 pounds, I left Brazil for home and my own bed.
I guess what surprises me most is that I've not been sick. Unlike RNY folks, I can eat real food at this point. I've been faithful about my vitamins, taking several – 4 times a day. I'm trying to develop good habits now that will last me through the years. My first lab work is already scheduled. I am doing everything I'm supposed to do and have not "cheated" nor do I want to. I just can't wait until my energy level comes back. But I'm almost 3 weeks out. It will come. I went back to work yesterday and only lasted ½ a day.
Now that I'm post-op, I'll try to do better at posting to my profile. More later!
August 16, 2006
My energy level is back! I've lost over 80 pounds so far and could not be more pleased. You know, habits are hard to break! At first, when I took food, I'd forget I could only eat a spoon or two and I'd pile it on. That has gotten easier but sometimes, the old habits sneak in. Once I could eat more "normally", I started measuring the portions according to what a package said a portion was. First, I was surprised at how SMALL a portion was and second, how little it took on the scale to change that portion into a HUGE one. I just wanted to learn to "eyeball" a correct portion size after years of filling my plate. I'm now satisfied with smaller portions (even less than a serving if I want to eat other things.)
I learned to chew, chew, chew...and that was because I was used to taking huge bites, partially chewing and then swallowing. Now, I try to chew well for a couple reasons. It takes longer for me to eat and it allows me time to converse. Plus, it is better for you. It helps the digestion process. I am still learning to get in all my water and vitamins. My 3 month lab came back and I was deficient in folic acid. Now, I am taking it every day.
When I lost about 50 pounds, I started to be more active. I'd walk more and even tried to bike. At 60 pounds, I tried kayaking, unafraid that I'd sink the boat. Now, I've joined a gym and am currently working with a personal trainer who says I don't have to be flabby like this! When I lost weight before (down to my exact weight now) I was healthier in that my body fat was less. But, I've just not been working out like I used to (nor do I want to get to that point!)
I had to learn not to gulp food and water. I've only tossed my cookies 3 times and all of them were because I ate too fast, drank too fast or (the first month) - didn't take my prilosec. (I quit that at 3 months.)
This surgery has been a blessing for me. Sure there are times I want to eat till I'm stuffed or out of bordom, but what I finally figured out is "what am I hiding" or "what am I trying to avoid" or "WHY do I want to eat". Sometimes it is because I am MAD and just don't want to express that so I supress it - with food. I no longer do that!
My husband has really been great all through this - and now I am encouraging him to go to the gym with me and get more fit. He is one of my best supporters and fans and I love him dearly for that. We share meals when we go out now. Servings are so big and we both could stand to eat less.....
My primary care doctor is so pleased! I am just so much healthier all around and for that I'm very thankful. My weight yesterday was 219 pounds, for an 84 pound loss at month 5. I feel more confident and I am treated as such at work. Now, I'm not sure if that is because I am projecting myself differently or if I am just perceived differently.
I have had people that I don't know ask me how much I've lost and I just tell them, "Oh, quite a bit" or "A lot, but I've got a ways to go". It just isn't their business. Now, if they were morbidly obese and looking for answers, I'd share with them. Most of those that ask are just sticks though.
More about this incredible adventure later!
October 9, 2006
I am down over 100 pounds to 201! I've not had any complications and I am just thrilled with my weight loss. I've been working out more but I'm also getting a bit sloppy with my eating. Halloween candy is evil and it calls to me from the refrigerator.
I am looking forward to seeing "onderland" - even if it is 199 (to start). I feel so much healthier now. I don't snore anymore, I can wear my shoes comfortably and clothes fit. THANK GOD for my sister-in-law. Without her, I'd be butt ass naked! She has outgrown a closet full of clothes which she loaned me during my journey. I started out at a size 24-26. (24's were too tight). She gave me things from 22's down to 18's. I am currently in the 18's and they hang...look good but hang. I returned all the 20s, 22s and 24s. Just to give you an idea, I had to loose about 45 pounds to go down a size. Once that passed, I went through sizes rather quickly! I've only purchased new bras and undies. I figure, when my weight stabilizes, I'll shop. I'll have to take someone that knows how to though. I've avoided it for years!
I can eat anything and am really surprised that I have "self control" now. If I want something salty, I don't sit down with an entire bag of chips. I read what the portion is and take that. It satisfies me! One of the things I like now is having a "Trigger" that says when I'm full. When I'm full, I stop eating. If I get OVERLY hungry, I find that I can only eat a couple bites and I know that is not good. I eat on a regular schedule now - and I don't skip breakfast.
I tried Opti-Fast in 1989 and lost 80+ pounds. Yep, regained that plus more!
In 1998, I decided to get in shape. My plan was to build big muscles so I would burn more calories while sitting on my butt! I started dieting doing no to low carbs for a week once a month, then working out to maintain the loss. My "Healthrider" was a good start for workouts! (I called it my "sex machine" because of the motion. )I lost 40 pounds then joined a gym. Even though I got up to working out 30 hours a week, I could not break below 220 pounds! I did the MS 150 bike ride. In year 2000 - I did 3 triathlons! That seems so long ago now. I'm not as big as when I started but I am at 295 and climbing! I hate the thought of starting over. I am "healthy" as any morbidly obese person can be at this point. My blood pressure has always been on the low side but now it is 130/96. That may not seem like much but it is very high for me.
I realize that taking this step will change my entire life, not to mention the way I celebrate life itself. The decision to start this process (which because of my insurance will be at least a year away) is because it has just been too hard. When I think of what I had to do just to be a "normal" size, I get tired. Today the insurance company asked for a list of diets I've tried. The list would be shorter if they had asked for the ones I didn't.
---------
Received the rejection letter telling me my right to appeal. The denial reason was that I had not been under a Dr's care for weight loss for a year and that I had not participated in an exercise program for a year. I have done both things but obtaining the "proof" is very hard. I called my gym to get a list of all the times I worked out, since I filled out the card every time I went. It appears that they do not keep those very long and the trainer I worked with had just quit two days before. Oh well, I'll supply dates and names but I was hoping to supply black and white documentation of working out 5 times a week for 3 years. My insurance company requires a one year program of supervised diet and exercise. I'm not sure if what I've done will suffice or not.
I am still thinking that this surgery is the only way for me now.
9/22/2004
I am actually sitting down putting everything together for insurance. Why I've postponed this since July, I don't know. I called the insurance company to find out how I can prove that I am not a substance abuser or crazy. I have to have an evaluation. I made my appointment for the Psychiatric evaluation for Monday. I contacted the person that used to work at the gym and he is writing a letter for me. I am jumping through all the insurance hoops. Hopefully, given my history, they won't require me to go through the one year program. I'll let you know more later!
10/18/2004
I received my denial to my appeal letter and was very disappointed. The insurance company wants me to go on their diet and see their nutritionist (as if seeing 2 for months was not enough). I felt that my letter was so well written that they could not deny me - but they did. I have lost (and found) over 400 pounds since I was in my mid twenties. I know how to loose weight you PEOPLE. It's the keeping it off that is hard. I'll call the "Education" folks at CHP and start the one year countdown - but I resent it. I am almost 50 years old and I feel like they are cheating me out of a year!
3/20/2005
Well, I've got to get things rolling again. I have to call my primary care dr. and get him to refer me AGAIN but this time for education. I met someone that has the same insurance and she told me to just hold on and jump through the hoops. I would self pay but my concern is if I have complications. I don't want excess medical bills for the unexpected. I'm sure any little thing would be attributed to the WLS by the insurance company. (Can I have this surgery without them knowing?) My goal is to have this by November of this year. It would be a great birthday present to me.
4/13/2005
I've been dragging my feet. I'd not made the phone calls that I needed to - and I've been beating myself up for it for months! Well, today I did it. I called my primary for yet another referral and I'll do what it takes. I got a little scared this month. I was PMS-ing and found I could eat mass quantities of food. I was in a dangerous binge cycle. The problem was, I never felt "full". I wondered if I would feel "full" after surgery and IF I could learn to stop before the full feeling. It would be nice just to eat to kill hunger. Instead I am killing myself by this food addiction. When you suffer from ….say alcohol addiction, and you go on a binge, don't they have places where you can go to "dry out". Why don't they have that for food addiction? The "Just Say No" is not that easy!
I'm not motivated to work out. My clothes don't fit and now, I wonder about breaking chairs when I sit down! My son (age 17) said that I THINK I am much larger than I really am. What does he know - he's just a kid. I told him that I could not go into the attic because I was too large for the stairs. Well, it is true! The limit on the stairs says 225.
Work is going well but I my size and weight are always THERE – causing me to doubt myself and my abilities. I am the same person that I was when I was thinner and healthier. Well, not really. I was more self confident and self assured. Today, I went to a retirement luncheon for a co-worker. There were 2 people that I worked on projects with 3 years ago and they did not recognize me. I did not bother to introduce myself and say hi. At a fund raiser the other evening, I saw a man that I had a horrible crush on when I was 17-20. He gave me my first job and I knew him (and his wife) very well. When he walked by, I saw him stare like he thought he knew me, but I turned my head and let him walk by. He was still cute, too! If I had been thinner, I would have said something and chit chatted for a few minutes. Yeah, I am not the same friendly, outgoing person that I am when I am thinner and healthier. Well, today I took another step. More later.
6/12/2005
I have an appointment with my insurance company June 21 to start the one year program. Funny, I thought I started it last year! Someone with the same insurance said that it would not be a year for me. I'd like surgery soon because I've been researching this for so long, I feel very prepared. (I even upped my life insurance - just in case.) My husband is very supportive but I've not told anyone in the family or work. It is just none of their business at this time. More later!
1/3/2006
I've jumped through the hoops and a lot has happened. My insurance will only pay for the RNY and although I really want this surgery - I really want the Sleeve Gastrectomy with Duodenal Switch and Bilio Pancreatic Diversion or BPD/DS for short. This is the one that I started researching years ago. I've decided to self pay and go to Brazil! My surgery is scheduled for March 15 and I'm very excited. Calm, cool and collected. Now, my sister hit the roof when I told her, even though she knows I've been "going through the process" for over a year. She just had to get used to the idea.
Now, I know the risk and this is one I'm willing to take. My son is going to graduate from high school this year and I want to be there for him. There are no guarantees but I feel very certain about this decision. I'll keep you posted!
2/3/2006
I define "coincidence" as a small miracle that God does not sign his name to. So many things have happened that tell me this is the right thing to do. I found out that an acquaintance teaches Portuguese and she gave me and DH a lesson. She knows the head of nutrition at the hospital where I'll be staying. She told me, "Oh, you met her son at my house – you remember …".
I have to have many pre op test – and I have completed some. Then, out of left field, I had a mammogram come back "not quite right". So, I had another and was told to have a followup in 6 months. My PCP wants me to see a surgeon. Then after doing the standard EKG, he did not like the looks of that either. So, now I have several doctor appointments on my calendar for the next week.
We are making our first ever will and that is a somewhat somber thought. I'm glad that I'll be able to leave a little something behind but hopefully, not for a very long time. Sometimes when I visit these message boards, it is easy to get swept away looking at the before and after photos and reading some of the profiles. To keep balanced, I visit the memorial page at obesityhelp.com. I read one yesterday that was heartbreaking. Again, it is not scary to me, but just a dose of reality. I told someone today that this is very serious surgery but I am doing this because I want to live a nice long life. I want to see my grandchildren (and I'm not about to rush my son to have any at 17!). I want to move again, go skiing in CO, swim with manatees like I used to. I want to hike in the mountains (NC, TN and CO.) Now, aerobic exercise is putting on panty hose (IF I find any that fit!).
I've got a little over a month until surgery. Next week I'll tell the people that need to know at work. I'm still not sure who I want to know. There is still a fear of failure because I've lost/gained/lost/gained so many times. People do treat you differently when you are fat.
I told my sister-in-law and her family about the surgery. She was very supportive and could not believe that I could keep a secret – that I was going through the approval process with my insurance company - for so long. I was very happy to hear something positive after my own sister's outburst. It meant a lot to me.
My husband (Dean) has been very supportive of whatever I do – and especially this procedure. He read the difference between the RNY and BPD/DS and there was no question which one to have. It did scare him when I mentioned raising my life insurance amount and doing the will thing, but he realizes that it makes sense. I've not written much about my personal life here but I will say that I'm married to a great guy that I like, respect, admire and love. (Yes, I think you can love someone without really liking them.) Both of my parents are deceased so I've adopted his family as my own – which is cool because my family loves him too – IF he doesn't try to tell them what to do. :-) My oldest brother died when he was 42. I have a sister (Mary) and a brother (Ray). I have one Aunt, and a few first cousins and some very dear nieces and grand nieces/nephew.
You know, I am really looking forward to leaning over to tie my shoes without getting winded! This bowling ball belly really does get in the way! I'm looking forward to normal size clothes, going down a shoe size (mine is a 12) and making love with me on top – again! (Watch out honey!) Now, I am going through all the emotions that I've read about here. I'm excited – and a bit scared but not overly so. I believe that everything is going to work out just fine! Watch out world….More later.
April 4, 2006
My surgery was March 15 in Curitiba, Brazil by the amazing Dr. Marchesini. For those that like to read profiles, let me touch on the time right after surgery.
I had told my husband that I could change my mind at any time up until the time I was unconscious on the table. Well, I didn't change my mind and all went well. I had to move from the operating table back to my bed but there was no pain in that. I was wheeled into the recovery area where I was so pleased that I could move my toes! I was ALIVE! I kept moving my legs, my toes, my hands, just to make sure I could and, in the back of my mind, was to prevent blood clots! The pain in my chest was like an elephant was standing on it! I just kept thinking, "This is as bad as it ever will be". I was in recovery for a couple of hours at least before being taken back to my room. Evil nurses wanted me to get up and walk that evening – which I did! (OK, they weren't evil, but I sure was comfortable in the bed!)
The physical therapist visited to teach me to cough, Dr. Marchesini came in to tell me that I did great. (Hey, all I did was lay there – he had the hard work!) He also presented me with my very own GALL STONE! It sure was a pretty one – light robin's egg blue. All my testing beforehand in the US did not find that.
Evidently, hubby did not notify folks fast enough about my progress and my wonderful Sister called the Doctor! He came to the hospital and told me how worried she was and that I needed to call her. How many US doctors would give patients and their families their home and cell phone numbers?
After 3 days in the hospital, I was ready to get out. I wanted to go back to the hotel. The release came when I pooped! Now, there is a cause for celebration – the plumbing works. The nurses at the hospital were wonderful and since I'd learned a few phrases of Portuguese, I didn't have a communication problem.
I met great people there that went though this journey a year before me and that was helpful. I also met other pre-ops who I could share my immediate experiences with. (You'd be surprised how much talk centers around poo…)
My husband was a wonderful caretaker and did everything I needed. It reminded me of the reasons I fell in love with him to begin with. The Brazil trip was great and after 3 days out of the hospital, I was on a train ride through the rainforest! Two weeks after surgery and a loss of 22 pounds, I left Brazil for home and my own bed.
I guess what surprises me most is that I've not been sick. Unlike RNY folks, I can eat real food at this point. I've been faithful about my vitamins, taking several – 4 times a day. I'm trying to develop good habits now that will last me through the years. My first lab work is already scheduled. I am doing everything I'm supposed to do and have not "cheated" nor do I want to. I just can't wait until my energy level comes back. But I'm almost 3 weeks out. It will come. I went back to work yesterday and only lasted ½ a day.
Now that I'm post-op, I'll try to do better at posting to my profile. More later!
August 16, 2006
My energy level is back! I've lost over 80 pounds so far and could not be more pleased. You know, habits are hard to break! At first, when I took food, I'd forget I could only eat a spoon or two and I'd pile it on. That has gotten easier but sometimes, the old habits sneak in. Once I could eat more "normally", I started measuring the portions according to what a package said a portion was. First, I was surprised at how SMALL a portion was and second, how little it took on the scale to change that portion into a HUGE one. I just wanted to learn to "eyeball" a correct portion size after years of filling my plate. I'm now satisfied with smaller portions (even less than a serving if I want to eat other things.)
I learned to chew, chew, chew...and that was because I was used to taking huge bites, partially chewing and then swallowing. Now, I try to chew well for a couple reasons. It takes longer for me to eat and it allows me time to converse. Plus, it is better for you. It helps the digestion process. I am still learning to get in all my water and vitamins. My 3 month lab came back and I was deficient in folic acid. Now, I am taking it every day.
When I lost about 50 pounds, I started to be more active. I'd walk more and even tried to bike. At 60 pounds, I tried kayaking, unafraid that I'd sink the boat. Now, I've joined a gym and am currently working with a personal trainer who says I don't have to be flabby like this! When I lost weight before (down to my exact weight now) I was healthier in that my body fat was less. But, I've just not been working out like I used to (nor do I want to get to that point!)
I had to learn not to gulp food and water. I've only tossed my cookies 3 times and all of them were because I ate too fast, drank too fast or (the first month) - didn't take my prilosec. (I quit that at 3 months.)
This surgery has been a blessing for me. Sure there are times I want to eat till I'm stuffed or out of bordom, but what I finally figured out is "what am I hiding" or "what am I trying to avoid" or "WHY do I want to eat". Sometimes it is because I am MAD and just don't want to express that so I supress it - with food. I no longer do that!
My husband has really been great all through this - and now I am encouraging him to go to the gym with me and get more fit. He is one of my best supporters and fans and I love him dearly for that. We share meals when we go out now. Servings are so big and we both could stand to eat less.....
My primary care doctor is so pleased! I am just so much healthier all around and for that I'm very thankful. My weight yesterday was 219 pounds, for an 84 pound loss at month 5. I feel more confident and I am treated as such at work. Now, I'm not sure if that is because I am projecting myself differently or if I am just perceived differently.
I have had people that I don't know ask me how much I've lost and I just tell them, "Oh, quite a bit" or "A lot, but I've got a ways to go". It just isn't their business. Now, if they were morbidly obese and looking for answers, I'd share with them. Most of those that ask are just sticks though.
More about this incredible adventure later!
October 9, 2006
I am down over 100 pounds to 201! I've not had any complications and I am just thrilled with my weight loss. I've been working out more but I'm also getting a bit sloppy with my eating. Halloween candy is evil and it calls to me from the refrigerator.
I am looking forward to seeing "onderland" - even if it is 199 (to start). I feel so much healthier now. I don't snore anymore, I can wear my shoes comfortably and clothes fit. THANK GOD for my sister-in-law. Without her, I'd be butt ass naked! She has outgrown a closet full of clothes which she loaned me during my journey. I started out at a size 24-26. (24's were too tight). She gave me things from 22's down to 18's. I am currently in the 18's and they hang...look good but hang. I returned all the 20s, 22s and 24s. Just to give you an idea, I had to loose about 45 pounds to go down a size. Once that passed, I went through sizes rather quickly! I've only purchased new bras and undies. I figure, when my weight stabilizes, I'll shop. I'll have to take someone that knows how to though. I've avoided it for years!
I can eat anything and am really surprised that I have "self control" now. If I want something salty, I don't sit down with an entire bag of chips. I read what the portion is and take that. It satisfies me! One of the things I like now is having a "Trigger" that says when I'm full. When I'm full, I stop eating. If I get OVERLY hungry, I find that I can only eat a couple bites and I know that is not good. I eat on a regular schedule now - and I don't skip breakfast.
October 15, 2006
OMG!!! I'm on ONEderland! 
I've been avoiding the scale for the past few days. I made it to the Century Club and then bounded UP 2 pounds. But today is my anniversary so I did the deed and stepped on them. It read 196! I was almost naked when I weighed but had to check 4 or 5 more times just to make sure it wasn't a scale fluke!
So - in month 7 my weight is 196, down from 209 in September! 13 pounds in a month!! I wasn't expecting that and I can hardly believe it. I noticed the blouse I wore yesterday was looser but didn’t think anything about it.
October Sept SurgeryDate 3/15/2006
BMI 28.1 29.8 43.5
Weight 196 209 303Lost 13 9 Since DS 107 Gone!
So, this means that I can now touch my toes, put on socks without being winded. I can move (and do!) I am still tentative when I sit on plastic chairs but usually have lots of room in them now. I don't worry about breaking furniture. My shoes fit better. (I had 2 new pair of shoes that I'd never worn because they were too small - at a size 12. Now they fit just fine and I can wear them all day!) My lab work is good, my resting heart rate is 58 and blood pressure is about 95/60.
This board has been great! I feel very blessed to have found this space and Dr. Marchesini's Yahoo site! I am just in a very thankful mood today.
OK, I'll ramble a bit more. We are packing our RV to go on the road for 2 weeks. We leave next Friday for Tallulah Gorge, GA, then on to the Blue Ridge Parkway in VA to slowly work our to Townsend, TN then home. Just think, I'll be able to hike mountain trails without being the one that everyone waits on! We are taking the bikes for Cades Cove (A great 12 mile bike ride - all up hill! Some say there are some downhills but you can't convince me of that! I've done that trail before! Some of the hike are 1-3 smiles in to an old homesite then back out again.)
January 15, 2007
March 15 was my surgery date. I started at 303 and now weigh 174. The scale is teasing me because in 1 more pound, I would be “NORMAL”. But, hopefully, I’ll be there next month.
By the way, I feel great! My sister swears that I am a LOT taller now. It just looks that way - and besides, she shrunk and I am less overweight than she is! 
(I LOVE my sister. We just got back from Disney last night. While walking around she asked me how I ever did it before...how did I walk around with that much weight on me. She said that I never complained about it and she said it had to have hurt. I told her I was just a somewhat fit MO person with great knees. I explained to her that my weight was beginning to take its toll and that everything hurt as I approached surgery! My timing was great - but I still wish I'd done this when I was younger! )
5’10”
All weights are the 15th of every month.
Month
| Weight
| BMI
| Monthly Loss
| Total Lost
|
| Jan
| 174
| 25
| 9
| 129
|
| Dec
| 183
| 26.3
| 8
| 120
|
| Nov
| 191
| 27.4
| 5
| 112
|
| Oct
| 196
| 28.1
| 13
| 107
|
| Sept
| 209
| 29.8
| 10
| 94
|
| Aug
| 219.5
| 31.5
| 8
| 83.5
|
| July
| 227.5
| 32.6
| 13.5
| 75.5
|
| June
| 241
| 34.6
| 16.5
| 62
|
| May
| 257.5
| 36.9
| 15.5
| 45.5
|
| April
| 273
| 39.2
| 30
| 30
|
| March
| 303
| 43.5
| 0
| 0
|
This board has been a great support for me and I am so glad to have found it. I lurked for a LONG time before coming in! Words cannot express what I'm feeling right now, but some of you already know. THANKS to everyone who has helped me on this journey!
