Marelda
01/02/09
269 lbs pre-op
I scheduled an appt. with the Psychologist, which is required by my insurance company. I was advised to start losing weight now by the Surgical Specialist of Louisiana, so I have been trying to eat healthy and exercise. I was also given a sample pack of vitamins and told to begin taking them now.
Happy Birthday to me!!!
01/13/09
269 lbs pre-op
Today is my B-day 37-years old, another year God has blessed me to see another number (that's all it is b/c I feel like I'm 27 lol). I met with the Psychologist, Dr. William Brasted, he explained that the reason my insurance company wanted me to meet with him is to make sure I understand fully what I was about to get myself into. I understand that this is a life style change and not a quick fix. I had to take a very long test which included 599 true or false questions. Talk about boring 
but I got through it. I will keep you posted on the results.
01/20/09 
PRESIDENT OBAMA 2009
268 lbs pre-op
I had my first appointment with the Dietitian today. Her name is Vesta Batchelder, LDN, RD, Covington, LA.
I learned a lot of great techniques to help me manage my eating habits. Here are a few:
EAT SLOWLY CHEW FOOD 25-30 TIMES BEFORE SWALLOWING
AVOID DRINKING WITH MY DINNER. WAIT 1 HOUR AFTER TO DRINK
DON'T USE STRAWS TO DRINK BEVERAGES/YOU TEND TO DRINK MORE WITH STRAWS
DON'T EAT IN THE BEDROOM OR LIVING ROOM
USE A SMALLER PLATE AND UTENSILS FOR MEALS
EAT YOUR PROTEIN FOODS FIRST, THEN VEGGIES, THEN STARCH
LEAVE OFF SECOND HELPINGS
STOP NIBBLING
NO FRIED FOODS
FRESH FRUITS INSTEAD OF SWEETS
LESS, GRAVIES, SAUCES, SALAD DRESSINGS, MAYONNAISE, SOUR CREAM, CREAM CHEESE, DIPS, BUTTER ETC.,
I have one more appointment before my advocates submit my info to the insurance company for approval. Just in case you missed it, my insurance covers the wls but you have to take a series of test before they give you approval. I meet with my primary care physician in 2 weeks, let's pray that all goes well. 
01/17/09 
4lbs gone "Wii Fit"
264lbs pre-op
I bought a Wii Fit to help me get motivated with exercise.....And let me tell you this thing is AWESOME!!!!!!
if you don't have one it's a must that you get one. I am having sooooo much fun playing Wii. I have never played a video game that was fun and physical. Wii Fit is helping me burn calories, get my heart rate up, learn my center balance, yoga, aerobics, strength training, running, and so much more. I lost 4 pounds in 5 days just by working out 30 minutes in the morning and 30 minutes at night. I can't wait to do more, as you play you unlock other games that challenge you and help you to reach your goal. This is a Great start. Until next time. 
01/30/09 FINALE APPROVAL
261lbs pre-op
I received a call from the patient advocates today and was advised that I got finale approval from my insurance company. YEA!!!!!! I have to schedule an appointment with the Surgeon first then we can schedule a date for the surgery. I am so happy I can't wait. 
2/10/09 I HAVE A DATE 
263lbs pre-op
I received a call form Patsy, one of the advoates at the Surgical Specialists of Louisiana. We scheduled my surgery date for March 9, 2009. I have to take a class to learn more about what to expect from the surgery and after on March 2nd and I need to do my Pre-Op testing also. I'm counting down the days!!!!!!! I'll check back in when it gets closer to my date.
