Carla's WLS pathway

new measurements

2009-05-13T22:51:00.003-04:00

Well I've seen the pics and the clothing sizes go down. I took some measurements today and compared them to July when I first and last took them. The results are in:

.....................Jan 17 2009.........................May 13, 2009
Thigh ............23 1/2......................................23 1/2
calf ................15 3/4......................................15 3/4
ankle ..............8 7/8........................................8 3/4
upper arm ...15..............................................14 3/4
wrist.............. 7 1/4.........................................7
neck .............14 1/4........................................13 7/8
stomach.......42 1/2........................................41 1/2
waist............48 1/4.........................................47 1/4

these past 5 months the inches have slowed down BUT they are still coming off: -2 5/8 for a grand total of 13 1/4 inches lost. That is a lot, and I am soo excited.

It's been a while

2009-05-13T22:11:00.003-04:00

Well, it's been a while. I went to see Bob today I was so afraid to step on the scale. The number had me terrified. Well this past month I made it down to 187 I was so happy then I made it back up to 195 so upsetting. Well today on the scale at the office I was 191. The good news is I was 2lbs down from last time. So the average has slowed so far to 1/2 lb a week. It's okay but my goal is 1 - 1 1/2 lbs a week. The 16s are getting easier to button, still tight but I'm getting there. I just have to remember that I started at a 24. I've come a long way although I am just starting to see it in the mirror, my clothes are starting to fit properly - I like not hiding behind the huge baggy t-shirt, I am still way heavy but not as much in the past. I don't like wearing the baggy Ts like in the past. This is something new to me. I still like comfy but I feel like I have something to show for now. Still have a ways to get to my goal but I'm a sliver more than half way there - that is a huge accomplishment for me. I have so much more energy and so much more to live for - it is a good feeling. I can sit in a chair and bring my legs up to me again, I can sit Indian style, I can run 3/4 of a mile now (haven't done that since 1993), there is so much more to do. I have so much to be thankful for and a lot of it is my family and friends and all the support they have given me. I have to take some 6 month bandiversy pics I will get them done soon.

a simple run

2009-04-19T20:39:00.002-04:00

Well - I did it today I went out to go for my normal lunch time and actually ran one half mile. It hurt, it burned, I wanted to quit, but I didn't I stuck it out, once I can start doing that with no problem I can add some distance. My goal is to be able to run a half marathon. I am hoping to be able to do that by 2011. So wish me luck. Still losing weight very slowly - but it's coming off that's all that matters...

April 3

2009-04-04T19:21:00.008-04:00

Today at work was a horrible day - we dealt with the shooting in Binghamton. As stressful as it was I didn't turn to food - not during and not afterwards. I relied on physical activity. I didn't skip my meals and I ate appropriately and healthy with the exception of one cookie and I only had half of it. At night before bed the scale hadn't gone up. That's always a plus at the end of the day. All and all it went well and as emotional and stressful as the day was - I didn't allow myself the food to comfort me.

April 2

2009-04-04T19:21:00.005-04:00

Today I went for another fill. Bob was leery at first but after talking to him a bit he agreed that I too needed one. So we put a small one in at .3 quick and easy. Minus four pounds on the scale that's always a plus. He kindly reminded me that it was full liquids again for today and blenderized foods for tomorrow. So when I left the office we decided to go to lunch. I wanted a bowl of soup so off to Applebee's - I got a bowl of their oh so good Tomato Basil soup and a glass of water. Ate it no complications, I even ordered a bowl of soup to go and that's what I had for dinner also. After the two meals and actually feeling completely satisfied - I feel as if I found my "happy spot". Yes it is too early to tell, the fills have been wearing off after two weeks. I guess we will have to wait this one out as well, but it really does feel different! It's a good thing.!!!!!!

today is day 1 of five

2009-03-23T10:45:00.004-04:00

This week I am spring cleaning not only my house but my body too. I am doing what they call the 5 day pouch test. It basically takes me to the beginning of day one after surgery. With this test:

Days 1 & 2: are liquids. Liquids can be low-carb protein shakes, sugar-free jello, broth, cream soups, sugar free pudding, and popsicles (sugar free of course).
Day 3: is soft proteins: canned fish (tuna), canned chicken, eggs, soft fish (talipia or haddock), protien bars or shakes if needed. (pureed foods)
Day 4: Firm proteins - ground meats, shellfish, scallops, lobster - pulverized foods
Day 5 - solid proteins - white meat, beef steaks, anything from above.

It is recommended to do this program every so often just to keep your body in check. Make sure you have stretched your abdomen up over your band. Well day 1 in progress - 4 to go! I am going to buy a bicycle today - to start riding again. I have found that I have always loved the outdoors and now that I have more zip in my life I'm going to use it to the fullest - I want to start hiking, and camping more along with riding bikes more often. It's my goal not to let my daughter follow in the footsteps that led to this, but to let her enjoy the outdoors as well and not to be afraid to go out there.

Hello friends!

2009-03-19T13:22:00.002-04:00

I have a new inspiration!!! I have started watching the biggest loser - with that I have also purchased a few of it's books. They are fabulous especially the 30 day jump start! That book is awesome - highly recommended and easy to follow for anyone that wants to shed some weight, be sure to follow the diet and they daily routine to go with it. I found that the routine if you follow it to the tee takes about 30-45 minutes to complete. Since then I've been able to jump start my loss again. I haven't posted because it's been a standstill for the past few weeks. It sucks yeah I got depressed but I'm back with it now and feeling as good as ever. I'm now at 193.8lbs still at 4'11.75" haven't grown haven't shrunk. My daughter is now at 4'11.25" it won't be long, her shoe size is the same as mine (she will be 10 in April). But back to me I'm doing well I have 3 sessions left with my trainer until I pick back up in June - I need to reallocate that money to some bills, but with the new workout I may not need her back, we will see. I will have new pictures, measurements, and weight posted on the 11th of April hopefully there will be some change even if it comes in fractions it's better than nothing. I just needed to check in - hopefully I can do it more often when time is available - right now my family needs me, we are going through some not to good things. Everyone is hanging in there and doing good our nerves are shot but we are doing.

Wow!

2009-02-28T22:40:00.002-05:00

well, today I went shopping for new clothing. YEAH!!! I was so excited. I managed to finally button the size 16 pants - snuggly but finally got them buttoned. SSOOOOOO, I decided not to purchase them yet but to hold out a bit more longer - I also got to try on some bathing suits (YUK) I finally noticed my thighs starting to trim down but also noticed a lot of cellulite "pockets" and loose fitting skin, that is when I realized it's time to crank up the incline on the treadmill while doing my cardio time - also need to work the abs more. It is working and I have begun to see it, but now I need to step it up at the gym and start toning more. Today on the scale I hit 193 (my lowest yet) it was such a good feeling. Afterall, I've been down on my self lately the weight went up 4 lbs so I had to lose that again and start. I did a 2 day cleanse with my self with yogurt, milk , cream soup, and lots of water. After I did that my hunger pains started to fade and they are longer again between meals. When I go see Dr. H next Wednesday I am going to ask for a small fill I sense that I am close to where I need to be, but not sure exactly how much more I need. I guess I will have to converse with him and let him know whats going on so we can decide the size of fill that is up coming. Back to the mirror while trying on my clothes I guess I just thought going to the gym was all I needed to do and I'd have no pockets of skin - I was wrong they are starting on the legs - that is kinda bothersome, it would be noticable with shorts and a bathing suit! Good thing it is only March and I have time to work my legs to the bone. Well I guess I got to vent again, that's why I did the blog to vent to myself. Off to bed.

Almost There

2009-02-23T18:59:00.003-05:00

Well, it's been a while and lots has been going on. I think I am almost adjusted as to where I need to be. Maybe a few more smaller ones will do the trick. But my body could be tricking me - I just experienced my first "cycle" since October. So my body is way out of whack. I managed to get down to 194 then my cycle came and I went right back to 196-197. I don't know!!!!! I go see Dr. H next week and hopefully he can shed some light on this for me. My goal is be be 190 by the end of Feb. I don't think I am going to make it that's like 6 pounds in a matter of a week. Oh, well there is always next month. I am still aiming at 5 or 6 lbs a month. Soon I will be there - just need to get through my adjustments....

How much have I lost?

2009-02-10T19:00:00.002-05:00

That seems to be the most popular question. I hear it all the time. Well to answer a few of the most popular questions. How much have I lost? Since March 2008 I am down 53 lbs, since surgery in I am down 27lbs. I have had 2 fills so far. And yes I am still hungry between meals. It sucks big time - but it is a work in progress, I knew from the beginning that it wasn't going to happen just like that! I knew it was going to take some time to find my sweet spot. So yes I get angry that the weight is coming off quickly - but I don't want it to either. I want my body to have the chance to rebound without all the floppy and loose hanging skin pouches. That is why I hired my personal trainer, that is why I'm losing about 1 lb a week, that is why I get upset. Eventually, I'd like to get to the point where I can drop 1.5 - 2 lbs a week. That is still in the "healthy" range. I keep telling myself the slower the better. But I'm dragging my feet here! I have lost a lot, I have got my blood pressure and sugar back down out of the danger zone (it was creeping up into the diagnosis stage). I am down in to size 18 - the 16's go one but won't button. My shirts for the most part are now larges. I went to the store Sunday to buy a new pair of pants for the gym I took and XL off the rack and headed out, got home tried them on and they were too big, I took them back Monday and traded them in for a Large - not only did the size go down BUT I saved $13 they were marked to clearance overnight. So I am headed in the right direction I'm just taking my time. Off to the gym now - will post again after my 3rd fill Friday.

Happy February

2009-02-01T20:32:00.002-05:00

Well January has come and gone and I missed my goal by 3 lousy pounds. Oh well, I'm feeling good, I have noticed a bit of thinning finally. Pant size hasn't changed! Yesterday I had a get together and two of my dear friends spent the day with me. They are both occasionally on the strange side - but that's okay that's why I enjoy their company and friendship. We all need weird once and a while - heck I'm weird all the time! So it is only natural. They both kept telling me that I look good and have lost lots of inches, and one kept saying "your looking good, I can't believe how good you look, and I'm sorry I just keep staring at you". It made me feel good. In support group everyone is saying how friends sometimes turn jealous and a freindship is ruined, but that's not the case here - these two special friends are keepers. I love them both like sisters. Now, so it is written down and official my goal for this month is to lose 5 lbs. I have all of my support (Verizon wilreless calls it their network) to keep me honest - and eat better meals. I need to thank Tori for all her hard work in kicking my butt weekly at the gym. I need to thank my family and friends for keeping me on my toes and being a wonderful support system. I need to thank Kenny for sticking beside me and helping me through all of this, and my wonderful daughter for being her and reminding me to slow down my eating and asking the "dumb" questions to make me stop and think about all of this and what it means. February is here, a new month a new goal, hopefully some better weather, and some better health for my sister who's been sick since December - she's doing better now, but I still worry about her. One positive thing that I've gained from the surgery is I'm no longer an emotional eater, I am an emtional eater in remission. It's getting easier, heck I've kicked the soda habit! I can just about do anything now.

Self Motivation

2009-01-23T20:11:00.003-05:00

It makes me smile when I walk in to the office and I hear "hey, skinny! how's it going?"; "you are looking great" "wow, where did you go?" They just make me so proud of myself and what I am doing is going noticed. That people care about me. The other day at work I was asked "hey where did your 6 year old go?" my answer was "I don't have one" he said "yeah, no shit you lost it" it took me a few seconds to realize we was talking about the weight I lost, not a child. It is comments like that that make you say ahhhh. The other day up in the gym at work, I was working so hard and sweating really gross, one of the CO's came in and asked who I was trying to impress. - No one, I am doing this for me, and then said if mom isn't happy then no one is. I work hard at the gym, I work hard at trying to make the right decisions when I eat. I work hard at trying to eat slowly. One of the ladies at work asked me why I wasn't losing weight faster. Well it's a tool - not a miracle. It is a slow process! My goal is about 1.5 lbs a week. Hopefully I can stick with it. I would like to lose another 81lbs. Can I do it? Of course I can it is going to mean long hard days at the gym - making the right decisions with food, and activity! The LAP-BAND is a tool to assist you - it doesn't lose the weight for you. I have gotten to know many people that had the procedure done and get very upset because it is taking so long to lose the weight. The key is patience. You must have patience and a goal - work for it. Just saying you are doing it is a lot different from actually doing it. It's like saying hey I just joined the gym. What is not said is oh I don't really use it, I just carry the card for status. It all comes down to self motivation - only you can do this, You have to be positive. You need to love yourself, and want this for your self, you have to work at it for yourself!

Updated Measurements

2009-01-17T15:29:00.003-05:00

Well I've seen the pics and the clothing sizes go down. I took some measurements today and compared them to July when I first and last took them. The results are in:

.....................July 10 2008...... Jan 17 2009
Thigh ..........26 1/2 ..................23 1/2
calf ...............17 1/2 ..................15 3/4
ankle .............9 1/4 ...................8 7/8
upper arm ...16 .........................15
wrist.............. 7 1/2..................... 7 1/4
neck ..............15 .........................14 1/4
stomach......... 44 1/2............... 42 1/2
waist.............. 50 1/2............... 48 1/4

for a grand total of 10 5/8 inches loss. That is a lot, and I am soo excited.

Toxic people

2009-01-16T21:13:00.002-05:00

To all of you who say this is the easy way out! BITE ME! This is by far one of the hardest thing I've ever had to go through. I have to watch what I eat and portion control. Not just words that we've all learned one day to explain a diet - but real portion control! 1 cup or 6-8ox of protein, 1/4 cup vegetable and fruit, make sure you get enough protein in each day - don't forget the dairy! Oh, yeah the starches too. We have to eat it all - but in moderation! Do I allow myself a "treat"? Sure I do, I have a bite size candy bar one or two times a week. I can't have soda - that's okay because it's not good for you anyways. It's been almost a year since I've had one anyways. But don't belittle me and say it is the easy way out, it's not, by any means! I just chose to get help to install a "tool" to HELP me through my weight loss, because everything else I've done in the past was only temporary fixes. I want to live until I'm 50 - the road I was traveling was leading to a huge cliff at the end that was going to bury me 6ft under. I have a beautiful, precious, and intelligent 9 year old daughter that I want to be around to see her graduate high school and college, get married (after she's 25), and see my grand kids (again when she's 25 or older). I have dreams, I want to see them all come true. This is going to help me (you hear me HELP me do the work to get it done!) So get off your high horse and until you walk in these shoes - stop slamming me (us) every chance you get! Just knock it off, if you don't have anything pleasant or nice to say to me then don't say it at all, I have better things than to be talked down to like that. To my WLS family - thanks for all the info and support, and experiences you all share with each of us at support (online or meetings) you are all great, and real people too. And for those "toxic friends" beware! As you all know there are "toxic family members too", those people are just NG (no good) for us and what we have to go through - the belittling and telling us we've made mistakes and look like crap - well here's to them "GO FLY A KITE, and LEAVE US ALONE"!

I rested and back at it

2009-01-16T20:56:00.003-05:00

Well I took Tori's advice and rested the other day. It was hard. I didn't know what to do with myself. But have promised myself to take one day off a week from here on out. After letting my body rest I realized how tired I was and slept for four extra hours that day. The following day I realized my thighs felt like jell-o, they healed and I went back at it. Now I am off of work for a week. YAY!!! I'm so excited. Today I went to the store and placed so items on lay-away so I have them for home. There is an exercise ball, and 10lb dumb-bell, and resistance bands. I can use for home the days I don't go to the gym. Now all I want is an exercise step and a medicine ball. Then I will be set for these nasty days when it is too cold to go outside. I feel fine and I'm glad to be back down into a large shirt. I noticed yesterday that my uniform shirt that I have to wear for work is starting to look really baggy on me. The shoulder seams are down on my arms now and I have more breast and belly room in it. I am so glad that I decided to go along with this procedure - it has definitely helped my life turn around and what surprises me most is I love the high I get from doing the different exercises - I never would of imagined the feeling being so positive. Today at the gym working with Tori, she had me doing some jumps. JUMPS actually lifting both feet off the ground at the same time. It has been years since I've done anything like that - once I did it I started laughing. I thought wow, I'm doing this - my knees actually let me do it. Then we did some stairs and some laps around the gym on the indoor track, weights, and crunches. You are all probably tired of hearing this, but I am so proud of me for allowing myself to be me! I've lived in a cocoon for so long now - it's nice to started peeling it away. I was asked today what my goal weight is. I really don't have a goal weight! I have a goal size, I don't want to get upset if I can't make the weight - I figure the size is a better rule. I want to get my BMI in the normal range and out of the morbid obesity range (that's scarey) and when all is said and goal is met, I will let you know!!!! I PROMISE......

Time to rest

2009-01-13T09:14:00.003-05:00

I met with my trainer yesterday. She told me that my muscles were tired, I could not do as much as I normally do (I was a bit upset, but understood at the same time). She told me to take today off - NO cardio and NO weights and NO Wii fitt! I looked at her as if she was nuts, as I have become addicted to the exercise. She assured me that all was going well, and that I will hurt myself if I don't give myself at least one day off each week. So today, I am going through withdrawal but instead of blowing or straining a muscle, I am taking her advise. It is so hard to sit back and not do it (the exercise). I am finding myself doing things that need to be done around the house, that I have procrastinated on, I am also finding myself getting bored today - mind you the time is only 9:18am. I have a long ways to go today. I have checked some emails, sent some out, booked a Tupperware party, and vacuumed my floor. This afternoon I have a First Aid class to attend, then tonight we have family game night. Sounds like a full day, right? Other than the class and game night everything is done. SO I think I will sit and read, then work on some of my girl scout files updates. Then maybe take a nap. Hopefully I won't returned to the "I'm bored, lets see what there is to eat" today. A year ago to be told not to exercise, would be no big deal - but now? I'm fighting myself to take a breather!

Frightful Weather

2009-01-11T20:07:00.002-05:00

The weather outside maybe frightful, but it didn't keep me from my exercise. This weekend I spent every minute of my lunch break up in the gym at work. I did the elliptical for 15 minutes each day then pushed myself 20 minutes with the weights and machines. They were not full work outs but it I sure made them count. Even the snow Saturday night didn't hold me back, I still made it to the gym. I figured I was out and only 5 minutes from it, so I took advantage of that too. Talking to one of my friends at work today, I came to the realization that I may be getting addicted to the gym. I love exercise, I love working out and working to a sweat. A year ago, I never would of thought it possible. I joined the gym last May as it was my mother's day gift to me from myself. Ever since I've been really good at it. I can walk for a while now without being winded. I can run 1/4 of a mile now and not stop. I can almost do a sit up. I can look down the front of me and see my toes. I can also actually look down in front of myself and not see my stomach sticking out from my breast. These are awesome accomplishments. My meals are low fat, low carbs and high protein. I drink lots of fat free milk and water daily. I push myself just a bit more everyday. Tomorrow, I am hoping to go purchase an exercise ball and a medicine ball. Again - my family and friends make this all possible - THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR SUPPORT, IT SURE DOES HELP.

Sore, Tired, and Upset

2009-01-08T21:53:00.002-05:00

Well I have been working my butt off at the gym. I am real sore and tired - but it is a good sore! One that I am proud of. But at the same time I'm a little upset with myself. I have gained back a few pounds and it really bothers me. It could be some fat turning to muscle - as muscle weighs more than fat - it could be because I've caught myself snacking because I've really been hungry lately - but trying no to over eat! I had a meeting tonight and have seen friends for the first time in about a month and they were impressed with the lost inches and the puffiness is gone in the face and the neck! That boosted my spirits up a bit. Support and encouragement are some of the most important things in this life altering adventure! For now Good Night and sweet dreams! HUGS to all

Wii

2009-01-04T20:29:00.002-05:00

Well, I have borrowed my brother's wii fit game and balance board. It is so often, I have worked muscles that I haven't worked in years. Oh my, it is so fun and you don't even realize that you are getting your cardio workout in and raising your heart rate. Hopefully he will let me hang on to it for a while until I can get my own. If you ever have that chance you must try it. It also keeps track of your BMI and weight - it also gives you a mii age (an age it feels you are at physically). I average about 10 years older than I am. So that's not to bad. I am a bit sore today from playing on the wii and working out at the gym my thigh and hip muscles are a bit achy - but my not so wonderful knees are hanging in there without a hint of hesitation or whining - I am so glad. Well, back to work tomorrow after having an entire 3 day weekend off and not having to do or go anywhere with the exception of the gym. I love the new "me" I feel so much healthier and even lighter than before. While I was working out I was thinking about my Dr's office and Bob (he's like the big kahuna for the WLS) said to me - "I think you are going to do great, you have the mind set, and you have already taken the steps to improve yourself. You know what you want and you are doing it, not sitting back waiting for the band to work". Well, that is the key to anything - if you want to lose the weight, you need to get off your duff and stop procrastinating and do something. This thinking that oh I'll start tomorrow, never put off today for tomorrow. As Nike says " JUST DO IT" You have to want this for youself, and once you do it will all come to you. The thoughts are good, but they don't do any good if that is all they are. I got tired of thinking and had to do it, so I am here! This is me - I'm doing it the pounds are slowly melting away - but I like the pase it is not to drastic and I am giving my body a chance to tone at the same time....

Ringing in the New Year with my resolution.

2009-01-03T14:55:00.003-05:00

Well, it is now 2009. Who ever would of thought it possible. I have made a pact with myself for the new year, since last years worked well for me. First I am going to continue last years and keep working on taking the "clutter" out of my life. I just want to live a simple life. So far so good it has been 368 days so far, and I keep getting rid of at least 3 things a day. What a difference it has made. Next, for 2009 I am going to fit into a size 10 and keep getting healthier. I made an imprint last year and have gone from a 24 to an 18 since March. So this year my starting size is 18. Let's see how I do. I also met with my trainer this morning, she's tough and I like her - together I will do well. I feel good right now a bit sore but good. All of you reading this need to check in with me on how things are going. I need all the support I can get, it will only make this journey easier. So I am counting on all of you! So what was your New Years resolution? Hopefully, to become healthier!

First Fill

2009-01-02T14:28:00.002-05:00

Well, today was the day. I had my first fill. Back on full liquids for a day then pureed foods for a day then back to normal again. That is one thing that I never asked about was the diet after a fill. I had anticipated the routine but didn't know for sure. I was told that it would take 3 - 6 fills to be adjusted properly. Mr. Bob was surprised at the weight loss, made me feel good. I had my mom go with me so we can have some mom and me time the hour and a half car ride each direction, gave us some catch up time. It was nice! The pain was very minimal. It felt like a bee sting but it didn't linger like they do. It was the initial poke of the needle then it was gone. I was told my port is rather deep - but that's okay because there is a lot of insulation between my skin and the port - hopefully I can start shredding off some of the insulation. The nurse actually took some measurements of my waist and stomach area. WOW! It has shrunk some. Overall, so far I am happy with myself for changing everything about ME!!!! I go back in three weeks for another fill me up!

Would you do it again?

2009-01-01T15:35:00.003-05:00

I was asked this question today. I never really thought of it, but my answer was "Hell Yah!" This procedure was my life line. I haven't had any issues other than getting the stomach bug and being scared as hell that the band has slipped. I've taken my time to heal. It's hard at the gym because I want to push forward, but tend to guard the stomach area still. My trainer is awesome - she helps a lot. But, yes - I would do it again in a heart beat. Luckily, right now that is not an option because it is all going well so far...

Happy New Years

2009-01-01T15:28:00.005-05:00

Well the big day came and went. I slept through the New Year ball drop. The past two days have been miserable. I've been so hungry - but yet gassy after I eat or drink. Good thing I go to the Dr's tomorrow. I am hoping for another swallow study, and a desperate fill. I was told that after each fill I go back to soft proteins for 24 - 36 hours. But that is okay, I can handle it. My weight is hovering 200-197 right now. But once I get an adjustment I should be okay and it should start to slowly melt away again. I am so proud of myself. I think the past 11 days I've only had 6 or 7 cookies. Wow, I never would of thought that was possible to have that small amount. I've had 5 different Christmas' with family and 2 Christmas parties and I didn't sweat the small stuff. I ate little amounts and it didn't bother me, I thought it was funny when we went to a Christmas party at the Hitchin Post. I sat with 11 other people, and my plate was so naked compared to theirs. They had food piled high and made 3 or 4 trips each to the buffet, I had 3 wings and a half slice of pizza. I also had 2 glasses of water - most of them had beer or mixed drinks or soda. This is a huge accomplishment for me. I am so proud of myself and thank Kenny a bunch for all his support through this.

Looking Forward to the New Year

2008-12-26T21:20:00.003-05:00

This past week has been to hell in a handbag. I got sick, my sister got sick, my friends house was burglarized - good thing it only comes in threes as I don't know if I could handle another. Well, I still think my band may have slipped a bit. I go to the Dr's on the 2nd. I am finally getting over this icky belly feeling (it's only been 6 days) and starting to ween my self from the beloved BRAT diet. I got rid of all the wonderful cookie presents from my friends - I'm so tired of looking at them - I think the sight of them was making me ill. I was good and had only 2 cookies this whole season. I can not wait to get to the gym on Monday, I really need it my 30 minute lunchtime workout isn't doing enough for me. But this morning on the scale I was at 197. Also I was so excited yesterday I actually fit into a large sweatshirt, I haven't seen that since I was 4 months pregnant 10 years ago. I was so happy. It' s the "little" things in life that make us go ahhhh! Well, all is well my spirits are up. Thanks for listening to me.... 2009 is only a little over 4 days away, and I have decided that this is going to be my year. ALL ABOUT ME!!!! My daughter happiness relies on ME, my health relies on ME, and my family needs ME. It is funny how life all revolves around me - I need my family to, but again it's all ME ME ME. This year my goal is to get down to within 1 size of my goal and be fit and tone at the same time . Lets see if I can do it!!!!!!

Exercise

2008-12-25T15:10:00.002-05:00

Exercise is the most important ingredient of health! These are some tips that I use now. Use stairs when available. Park further away from the door each day. Use a pedometer and aim for 3000 steps a day, then when you make that goal, try adding an additional 50 steps each day afterward. If you bought the gym membership - use it, most come with a couple complimentary visits with a personal trainer - I took the next step and started paying for one. That has helped me a lot. My arms are finally losing their granny figure. I am so excited. Most importantly try to walk at least 2 fifteen minute intervals each day. If you get a lunch break a work walk the block, do the stairs in the stair well, have a gym at work use it, find something to do rather that sit on the rump of yours - it's your life, what are you going to do? I know what I did. I put me first!!!!!!

Chirstmas Day

2008-12-25T15:03:00.003-05:00

Hello everyone now that I am caught up to date, I am hoping to post day to day concerns, questions, thoughts, or ideas. Something that may be catchy. Today is Christmas and I am starting to feel better after being laid up the first half of the week. I called Cooperstown yesterday and spoke to the wonder Mr. Bob to ask him if I was alright. After being sick the area of my port was a bit tender - he assured me that it was probably from bending over the toilet, or just the way I was sitting and putting a bit of pressure there. I was thankful for that. I can't wait to next friday Jan 2. I go back and see the office and I am hopeful for my first fill. All is well I stepped on the scale today and weighed in at 196. I haven't seen this weight since I was 7 months pregnant. 10 years ago. I also finally fit in to a Large sweatshirt - not an XL or a 2XL! This is a milestone and so far all appears to be going okay. Family is good, my daughter is wonderful - she keeps me on my toes: mom you are eating to fast; mom slow down; mom, can you have that? She is my support. She knows once I lose enough weight we will have the vacation of our dreams. Until then - we just have to keep melting away - pound by pound.

Stomach Bug

2008-12-25T14:59:00.003-05:00

Uh-Oh! I was just recently sick for 15 hours of not being able to keep anything in anywhere. I spent the night up and down - hot and cold! I was so worried because with the surgery you aren't supposed to throw-up, it can cause slippage of the band. I was so nervous, when I started to feel a little better I made Kenny drive me to Cooperstown to the ER that way if there was a problem, I was already there. They say there doesn't appear to be any trouble and that the band is okay. They drew some blood gave me an IV made sure I didn't get sick and sent me home. I was down for 2 days feeling blah, what a way to enjoy the holidays.

Pureed to solid foods

2008-12-25T14:53:00.003-05:00

Well I finally made it 3wks and 4 days out of surgery. Going to see Dr. H today, I can't wait. I am feeling really hungry between meals. I am relying a lot on my milk to get me through the day. I am afraid of turning back to the food and starting the bad habits all over again, only if people understood what I am going through, maybe they'd stop offering me the darn pizza, or chips, can't some one say "hey, I have a carrot would you like one?" I'm tired of the chocolate, pie, cakes, cookies. It is sure going to get harder before this year closes out in a few weeks. Well, I saw Dr. H he says I'm doing well I can go on solid foods now (truth be told my pureed has been getting a lot thicker this past week). All is well, I get to see Bob in just over two weeks for my first fill if all is well. (Let's keep praying) - Thanks WLS family again for all the hugs and support!

First follow up appointment

2008-12-25T14:49:00.002-05:00

I made it to my first follow up appointment (12 days out). Like cake work. Following the diet, not hungry, feeling good - occassionally feeling like I may have over done it. The Dr. says I look wonderful, doing great to keep up the good work. And I had already lost 8 lbs. Most of the weight is from being on liquids only at this time, I was also advised after starting pureed foods within the next week and a half that the weight loss will start to slow down. Wow - what relief, all is okay so far! Let's keep praying! And I want to thank my WLS family for all their support, tips, and ideas.

The days after.

2008-12-22T20:59:00.003-05:00

The first 2 weeks following surgery were easy. It was all liquids, and that didn't really bother me. What bothered me was the "gas" pain they call it in the shoulder area. That was horrible at times. I finally had my first BM about 4 days after surgery, that made me feel a lot better. After the first two weeks I graduated to pureed food, by mid week, I was getting real hungry between meals, trying to be good was getting harder - so I compromised. I had pureed foods but I was making the pureed thicker and thicker so there was actually pieces of food to eat with it. That is what held me over I think. Every now and then my belly feels off so I have found that a glass of milk has been my wonder cure. I'm not sure why, but it works awesome. Three weeks and 3 days later I finally make it to solid foods, this was wonderful. Until about 2 or 3 days ago. Now I am extremely hungry between meals, all my tricks aren't working - so I have relied on a fruity whip. I take some fruit and mix it with a tub of sugar free coolwhip and some jello and snack on that. That will help occasionally but it's not working all the time. I see Bob in 9 days I am hoping for a fill. In the meantime - since April I have lost 50 pounds as of Saturday morning. I have gained 2 pounds back. I really don't like to see the numbers climb - but....

Surgery

2008-12-22T14:42:00.004-05:00

Wow, I've made it - a long and hard and very dedicated journey so far! I just keep wondering what the future will bring me. I was at the hospital by 815am. I was registered and in the waiting room. I got called down to the pre-op prep area by 833. I sat there for a few minutes then I was pestered by the staff, need a bracelet, any allergies, why are you here, I need to do this IV. The IV- let me share with you this. The IV was unsuccessful. I got poke 8 times before they put an IV in my foot to take me to surgery. Once I was out I woke up with an IV in my knuckle, and 9 more holes where they attempted to do an IV. I don't remember anything after they put the meds in the IV site - I woke up in recovery I was there for about 2 hours (that is their sleep apnea protocol). I was in my room about 330 in the afternoon. My family stayed for a bit - I was feeling well and sent them home to tend to other family members about an hour or so later. Within 30 minutes of them being gone I was up doing laps around the floor. Was feeling really good, ready to go home - but I had to stay the night (again sleep apnea protocol). I had to go for the swallow study before they would let me take anything - I was in my room maybe 15 minutes before they took me down to do that - that was quick and easy! The nursing staff was real good to me. It didn't appear as I was bothering them when I needed something. It made me feel like a patient and not a hindrance. I was greatful for that.

The week before surgery

2008-12-22T14:37:00.002-05:00

Here we are - the day after the date was good. Thursday - I drove to Oneonta, met with the staff doing my physical I was there 15 minutes early. I was actually walking out of that appointment - prior to the office opening for the day. Friday - went shopping picked up "liquid foods" - yummm yummm Sat & Sun - Cleaned the house Monday - met with the surgeon, out to dinner "my last meal" At this time I have cut out soda and all carbonated beverages for almost a year!

The phone call - I have a date!!!!!

2008-12-19T16:25:00.002-05:00

At work the open enrollment for our Insuarance was coming up and we had two weeks to change. So I called the Center and spoke to the wonderful Christine on November 5th and explained to her my battle with the insurance company. I needed a tentative date so they could submit it to my insurance carrier for authorization prior to the end of our open enrollment. I hung up with her and within 3 hours, I got a phone call from the scheduling clerk and gave me a surgery date of the 11th. My first thought was overjoyed - I finally did it, so I jumped at the opportunitiy. This left me with 3 appointments and we were already midday Wednesday. I had to go do a pre-surgical screening physical with the clinic, I was able to get squeezed in the next day. Then I had to meet the surgeon on Monday - a day he usually doesn't see his patients. But I made it. I was so overwhelmed and so happy at the same time. I shared all the with my family that day - they were scared, and started asking lots of questions, that I haven't really answered for them yet. But all is well, they were just concerned for my welfare.

The battle with my insurance company

2008-12-17T19:33:00.002-05:00

My insurance company is a PITA - as all insurance companies are. When I first called to see if the service was covered I was told yes, so as time passed I called to see if I could get it in writing - I was told that I was never advised that insurance would cover it - sooo- back to square one fighting with the insurance. Got no where with RMSCO, so I called risk mngmt. Same story it wouldn't be covered even if it was deemed medically necessary. I was about to throw in the towel. I got so upset, and let it work me to the gym. I started working on it again from the beginning. I finally decided to go higher up the ladder. The insurance company said no, risk mngmt said no, I wanted a supervisor, the supervisor also said no, so I called the County and spoke to the man who has final authorization. I kicked and screamed, and vented, and finally had a discussion with him, in the end he was a very nice person - gave me all the information I needed to give to my physician so it could be covered. Insurance took about 3 months to get on the wagon to cover my procedure. I was happy!!!!

The road to surgery

2008-12-17T19:15:00.002-05:00

The first step was filling out all those annoying questionnaires and mailing them back to Chris at the hospital. After filling them out and mailing it back in, I was required to attend 3 different support groups. The first was okay that was just a general meeting for all those looking into surgery lots of questions were asked and I was fed more answers (information) by every one's questions. The second meeting was a New Patient Orientation - that was extremely information one of the Dr's came in and did a huge presentation - that was good! Then I had to attend another one that was surgery type specific. That too was very interesting - more learned mostly the what not to dos. So I got them done and out of the way - thinking what the heck? Is all this going to be worth it? Of course it was, it was going to HELP give me my life back. I finally got the call (my appointement to see Bob). Finally, my first offical weigh in. Wow, I was kinda shocked that I had already lost weight - I was down to 223. This appointment was in July. Oh no! I am supposed to be going on vacation in August - I remember thinking maybe this is not the right time - but it was my life I was talking about. I wanted to live a healthier one. I had 8 weeks to lose 11 pounds - and make all these appointments. I had to have some blood work, an EKG, see the dietician, see the psychologist, meet the surgeon, and luckily I already had a sleep study done. Again, my mind was spinning - I didn't know which way to go! Well I got all the appointments done within 8 weeks. I met Bob with my follow up and finally made the weight goal - Oh yeah, vacation too! So Bob put me on the list - I was a good canidate for the procedure! YES - I was doing the happy dance. Now, I was just waiting for a call to schedule my surgery!

My decision

2008-12-16T15:40:00.002-05:00

My decision didn't come easy. I knew after about 2 years of research that this was the option for me. I called several different bariatric clinics, I called Rochester, Albany, Scranton, Syracuse, and Cooperstown. In Rochester, I was never able to get a hold of anyone - no one would return my calls or send me info. Albany - the staff that I talked to on the phone I found very rude to me - so nope not there either. Scranton - the receptionist was friendly, the nurse of physican I spoke to didn't seem to have the time - so I ruled them out as well. Syracuse - again I was talking to a brick wall - they just didn't seem to care about the patients. I decided okay I guess this just isn't going to happen right away. I finally called Cooperstown by the request of one friends I was talking to, and when I did I spoke to this lady by the name of Chris - she was fabulous! She was friendly, nice, asked me questions, and sent me a large packet of information with everything I needed and wanted to know that the others just weren't willing to give to me over the phone. The packet included a health information, meeting dates, phone numbers, how they screened their patients - I was amazed there was just so much of it. I finally found piece and took the next step.

Researching Medical Options

2008-12-16T15:32:00.002-05:00

In 2006, I started researching alternatives to help me lose weight. I talked to friends with the same problem as I. I was researching the gastric bypass, this New thing called a LAP-Band, partial by-pass. I thought "oh my, there are going to rip the stomach open and do what?" , nope that wasn't for me either. Oh well, I guess I was just meant to be fat. So I did more research and more research. This lady I know from a co-worker had the gastric by-pass done in 2001, she dropped 160 lbs in a year. Wow, I was amazed, but what I wasn't amazed at was the fact she couldn't eat anything. If she had certain foods she got sick. About 4 years after she had the surgery she started to gain her weight back. So I was dumb-founded, I didn't know what to do. I knew I had to do something if I wanted to stop the weight here, and live to see my daughter grow up, graduate from elementary school , high school, college, and eventually get married. I started to investigate the Lap-Band even more, I wrote to the company, read all about it at the library, and on-line. I finally said this is what I am going to do.

The fad diets are knocking at my door

2008-12-16T15:26:00.002-05:00

I'm tired of being fat. I'm tired of being hungry. I'm tired of feeling blah - all the time! I signed up for LA Weight Loss - I figured what the heck it can't hurt. It started well I lost about 15 lbs - then I hit a plateau and no more weight came off, I got upset and gave up! Two months later I enrolled in classes at the college, was loving life - met a good friend and we decided to do weight watchers together - that lasted a few months - then my work schedule changed and I couldn't make the meetings. Now I am 210-215, I tried the Atkins, Calorie Counting, portion control, I tried a nutritionist, LA Weight Loss again, Hydroxy-Cut, Slim Fast - you name it I tried it. I cried I was fat and I felt like I was going to die before my daughter reached 13. Nothing worked. I fought this battle for 6 years with my weight flexing between 185 - 215.

Weight after my pregnancy

2008-12-16T15:17:00.002-05:00

My daughter came in April, just as stubborn as her father. She was 9wks an 3 days early. I was depressed she was coming home to a broken house. I was living with my mom trying to get back on my feet, still working nights. We were getting ready for a consolidation at work. I went back to work after my daughter had only been home 2 weeks. She spent the first 5 weeks and 3 days in the NICU as she was so premature, luckily there were no complications once she was born! I was so scared - I ate even more! After I had her, I had lost 11 pounds - still on nights, consolidation 2 weeks away going to 12 hour shifts. I needed a place of my own had to get out of my mom's house - 2 families under one roof - a horrible idea. I found an apartment on the other side of town 20 minutes from mom's house. I thought cool, the baby is here she is healthy- have my own place - I can start getting back in shape and shredding some pounds. I found a walking buddy that lasted almost three months the weather turned cold - she found a new boyfriend - and I hated walking alone. I dropped to 180lbs while walking daily. Consolidation happened my frequent 16 hour work days now turned in to regular 12 hour shifts - I'm still a single mom, 12 hours I had to do something find daycare, ask her father to become more involved - I was regretting it all.

Sliding into my depression and the upward spiral of the scale.

2008-12-16T15:04:00.006-05:00

In 1998 I got pregnant - I had split up with my daughters father when I was three months along and became very depressed. I had also just started a new desk job working nights. So there I was pregnant, alone, and working nights. My daily schedule consisted of sleeping from 730am - 4pm, (sometimes waking up earlier to go to my appointments) waking up and taking a shower, eating dinner about 530 - then visiting with my family until 9pm when I would have to leave to go to work. This continued throughout my whole pregnancy. Oh, did I mention I was the lowest on the totem pole at work also? So that meant 16 hour work days at least 2-3 times a week. Where I worked it was very dark and dirty not healthy at all. My babies due date was June 10th, I had started my job in August. During this time I also became more angry at the father for being a jerk - I felt used and abused! He had a new girlfriend, when we found out I was pregnant - and of course the baby couldn't possibly be his - he was ready to move on! So he begged me to terminate the pregnancy. I couldn't and wouldn't do it. So the depression started to settle in. At the time I became pregnant I was weighing about 140. At the end of the pregnancy I was at 211. How gross and sick was that.