Non-Scale Victories

May 13, 2009

There was a post on the RNY board talking about non-scale victories (NSVs), and I took the opportunity to think about some of the changes that have already happened to me. I thought I'd copy my response so I'm reminded of how far this journey is taking me.

1. No more sleep apnea. I had mild sleep apnea (UARS) prior to surgery. Within a week post-op I could tell that I was already sleeping better.

2. I walked 4.28 miles at the nature preserve yesterday. It was 80 degrees, and I was hot by the end, but I could have walked more!

3. I haven't had to use my asthma inhaler in almost two months. I had to use it once in the week following surgery, but that's been it!

4. I'm wearing clothes that didn't come from Lane Bryant or another plus-size-only store. I have on an XL Gap t-shirt and size 18 jeans from the regular section of Old Navy.

5. Related to #4 - I can go shopping with friends now and not have to buy just accessories. I didn't realize how amazing that would be.

6. I have so much more energy. I used to sleep 10-12 hours a night and still be exhausted. Within the past two weeks, I've started waking up before my alarm goes off. I used to really want a nap in the afternoon. No need anymore.

7. I went off my cholesterol medicine before surgery because of elevated LFT's. It's not a problem because it turns out I don't need it anymore. I had labs drawn a month post-op and my total cholesterol was 161 (want <200) and my risk ratio was 2.89 (want <3.22)

8. It's so much easier to move my body these days. I didn't realize what a difference 40-50 pounds could make.

9. I jogged the other day. It wasn't far and it wasn't pretty, but I did it. I'll do it again, too, once I get a better sports bra. (Anyone know where to find good, supportive sports bras for larger cup sizes? I'm a 38H now.)

10. I feel like I need a number ten because it's strange to just leave off at 9. Let's see... oh! Here we go! It's a whole lot easier to shave my legs now, which is nice because I'm exercising a lot and I don't want to be stuck wearing pants when I'm sweating. It's hot in Texas!

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