3 months post op, I can hardly beleive it.

Mar 04, 2010

I had about 80% of my stomach removed at 8:30 in the morning 12 weeks ago. At this time the night before WLS I couldn't sleep I was so excited. I did my first Hibiclens shower and just a few short hours later I took yet another Hibiclens "shower" as directed by my surgeon. I had lost 8 pounds on liquids only for the week preop and didn't cheat for even one second! Everything I did was specifically directed by the doctor or nutritionist. I didn't have to make decisions. I knew the easiest day would be the day of surgery when I'd be managed by the surgical team pre and post operative and no longer wanting to eat because of the drugs and operation. I wouldn't have to do anything but go with the flow. The recovery period was a blur and required mental fortitude especially until I could get home and sleep in my own bed again.

Fast forward to the present. All the decisions are up to me now. I am not following a precise path laid out by others - "5 protein shakes" a day, broth, etc. I get to make many choices. It is so relaxing to have been making the choices for a long enough period of time that I can predict how much food I can eat comfortably and generally what I will like. This last week was a milestone in that I hit the halfway point on my tracker!
My biggest stalls were at 3 1/2 weeks and 5 weeks. Ever since the weight has been coming off very steadily. My goal is to keep my calories around 850 average per day and my protein over 60 grams/day (even better closer to 80). I need to order some calcium supplements having used up the wrong kind I was advised to get by the nut. I am proud of myself for always taking my supplements even when I am tired and just want to say "skip it" today - I still get up and go through the motions.
I have found my favorite breakfast to be a protein shake with skim milk warmed up and 4 ounces of coffee added. I need to find some more protein powder to make those and would like to find one that is cappuccino or cafe latte flavored that I enjoy. I have tried about 10 different protein powders in the last 3 months to find what I liked best.
I am moving back into some old clothes that are a bit smaller. I refuse to spend any money on clothes at this time knowing if things keep going well that they won't fit after another 3-4 weeks. (Well I did buy a cute cardigan style sweater my daughter suggested but it should look good even when I'm many pounds lighter). I come to the OH site every day, track my nutrition every day and have just noticed in the last 24-48 hours that perhaps a bit more hair came off into my hands when I put some product on my hair in the morning after washing it. The loss may be just starting! Oh boy. I only hope I can cope with this next emotional challenge. I'll try to keep focused on those less fortunate as my reason not to complain.
I am thrilled to be a smaller person. I am still way bigger than I should be at 5' 2". I can hardly believe that something has finally worked to get all the extra weight off. This last 3 months is like a dream; a dream come true.

3/5/2010