tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52529925091526043992024-03-13T05:43:19.592-07:00A Weight Loss Journey Back 2 MeAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00350026014227884597noreply@blogger.comBlogger28125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5252992509152604399.post-35704018152155729802012-05-17T13:26:00.001-07:002012-05-17T13:26:19.293-07:00Sharing Smiley360 Mission<a href="http://smiley360.com/517015.cfm#.T7Ve3E3T6hI.blogger">Sharing Smiley360 Mission</a>: I just became a Smiley360 member! Sign-up for free at http://bit.ly/lTDqVw Be heard. Be happy. *Please remember the FTC requires you to mention that you received a free sample courtesy of Smiley360 when sharing.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00350026014227884597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5252992509152604399.post-44557061416593414542012-04-25T10:53:00.001-07:002012-04-25T10:53:52.472-07:00<span style="font-size: large;">Wooohoooo!! Yesterday I got on the scale and I finally lost the last 3.7 lbs to bring me 100 lbs lost! Amazing, just amazing! I'm so psyched and amazed that I've now lost 100 lbs! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I started this journey back on July 15th, 2011. What caused me to do this? Lifting a 50 lb feed bag and injuring my back. I was flat on my back for 2 weeks, where I had pulled all the muscles. I was sick & tired of being sick & tired! This propelled me onto this wonderful journey that I'm on now!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">As you know, I had my RNY on February 20, 2012. Yes, I had complications, yes I spent 5 days in ICU trying to recover, yes I had numerous blood transfusions. Would I do it all over again? YES! In a heartbeat!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I started this journey at 329. Yesterday I was 229, today I'm 228, so I've lost another pound! Yes, I'm still having problems with some foods, so I'll stick with the basics until I'm able to do better. Protein shakes, greek yogurt, Babybel cheese, pudding with added protein powder in it to boost protein. I can eat a half a Bagel Thin grilled with cheese on it too. Sometimes I can tolerate fish, sometimes I can't. Day by day is what I have to do and what I will do. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I took my waist and chest measurements today. I'll do the rest later when Steven can help me. But my waist has gone from 65 inches to 50 inches. My chest has gone from 56 inches to 44 inches. This is just amazing and sometimes overwhelming to me. I was remembering this morning that after I had little Cliff, I was 228 lbs. Cliff is going to be 29 years old this year. So its been 29 years since I've been this weight! 29 years I've been carrying all this excess weight around. It's really sad if you think about it. I missed out on so much being as heavy as I was. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">But today is a new day! I refuse to dwell about what might have been, just what will be!! So here's to today, a whole new day in my whole new life!! And what a great life its going to be!!</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00350026014227884597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5252992509152604399.post-26686573376050316032012-04-13T07:35:00.000-07:002012-04-13T07:35:38.651-07:00Plotting along<span style="font-size: large;">Well I'm at Week 7 and after a 3 1/2 week plateau, things are finally moving again. I've lost 6 lbs so far this week, thank goodness! I was really losing faith and wondering why I had this surgery in the first place. A 3 1/2 week plateau of losing and gaining the same pound is absolutely maddening. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I've pretty much gone back to basics and have to admit that I think Steven is right. I think I tried to do too much too fast and I've been getting the foamies or having to take some papaya enzyme quite a bit. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I'm starting over with softer foods and will take my time from now on. I wanted to try a little bit of everything and my pouch was screaming at me that it didn't like it one little bit!! Okay, okay I'm listening now!! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">So shakes or greek non-fat yogurt for breakfast, a cheese stick or something similar for lunch and then mostly fish for dinner. At least I know I can keep this stuff down. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I'm almost down 100 lbs since I started all this. It's just amazing to me that I've lost almost a whole person!! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I'm preparing for my trip to NY and have found some new things that I'll be taking with me. I'm in love with Babybel cheese. 50 calories with 6 grams of protein for each one. Pretty good!! I also have some Pure Protein bars. 20 grams of protein for each one. When I'm feeling as though I need something to "snack" on, these are a good choice. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Well, I'm headed outside to get some farm chores done. I'm adding a ticker to my blog so I can track how I'm doing. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.TickerFactory.com/weight-loss/wTid1u4/"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="http://tickers.TickerFactory.com/ezt/t/wTid1u4/weight.png"></a></span><br />
<div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00350026014227884597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5252992509152604399.post-56795309816000727252012-04-05T06:50:00.000-07:002012-04-05T06:50:15.960-07:00Plateaus suck!<span style="font-size: large;">I'm so frustrated! I know its normal to hit a plateau but I'm now on my 3rd week of one. I'm losing and gaining the same pound every time I get on the scale and there are times I just want to cry. I was doing better losing weight before I had the surgery. I've lost almost nothing since I had my surgery. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">My head is telling me this is all normal but I feel like a failure. Nothing tastes good to me any more. Things are so different than they were even 3 weeks ago. I no longer am enthusiastic about my WLS. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I can't do much exercising because I broke my ribs on Sunday but even still, you think something would give. I guess maybe I'm getting into a depression. I was hoping to be down to 220 by the time I left to go to NY on May 5th. That's definitely not going to happen. I'm even dreading going to NY now. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">What a head game this weight loss is. I guess all I can do it keep on keeping on and hope for the best. To be in a stall for 3 weeks is so damn depressing. I just want to cry. :(</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00350026014227884597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5252992509152604399.post-61118196600048293452012-03-20T17:32:00.000-07:002012-03-20T17:32:42.339-07:00One Month Anniversary of My Surgery!!<span style="font-size: large;">Well, its been one month ago today since I had my surgery. Wow how things have changed in a month! I'm down to 236 lbs, feeling pretty good most of the time, and able to eat some real food without too much trouble.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">A lot of my clothing is way too big and falling off. I was in Food Lion two days ago and had on a pair of my favorite shorts. All the sudden I felt them sliding down my butt! Yikes! Of course it didn't help that I had my cell phone in my pocket that was dragging them down as well. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Guess its time to get rid of those shorts. Darn they were comfortable! I took my measurements the other day because I seem to be in a bit of a stall. My waist has gone from a 65 to a 51. My bust has gone from a 58 to a 46. Its just amazing!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I look at myself in the mirror and I can't see that I've lost almost 100 lbs since July. Every one else sees it. I guess I have body dysmorphia. One day I'll be able to see the "real" me in the mirror, I suppose. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">For now, I'm just glad to be able to be healthy and happy. I'm down to only one med, my nighttime maintenance of insulin. I'm not taking much and it may be DC'd at my doctor's appointment on Thursday. We'll see!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Here's to health!!</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00350026014227884597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5252992509152604399.post-26995168150675938882012-03-18T07:15:00.000-07:002012-03-18T07:15:24.029-07:00Down, down, down!!<span style="font-size: large;">Feeling pretty good today, still have gastric distress but I have a doctor's appointment on Thursday. I'm living on Imodium and Fibercon tablets. YUCK!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">My weight is slowly going down and I'm down to 237 this morning! Steven took some pictures of me yesterday and although I know that I'm losing weight (I started at 329), I have a hard time seeing it in pictures. I know its body dysmorphia and I'll have to deal with it.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I'm doing pretty well eating, although yesterday I again ate too quickly and up came everything I had attempted to eat. My pouch didn't feel good the rest of the evening and I went to bed early. I had a protein shake afterwards but I still didn't feel all that well. My blood sugar was even high, 187 when I went to bed. That concerned both Steven and I but its down to 127 this morning. I guess my body's under stress with this gastric distress.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Its raining on and off so I don't know if I'll be going outside today. I guess I'll use my treadmill and get some exercise in. </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00350026014227884597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5252992509152604399.post-59295067121323107002012-03-15T08:13:00.000-07:002012-03-15T08:13:51.244-07:00Here I am...<span style="font-size: large;">I'm a bit over 3 weeks out and I'm losing about a pound a day. I'm pretty psyched about it. I have lots of energy and actually don't even feel as though I've had the surgery. I'm sleeping better, eating well, making sure I'm getting between 60 & 80 grams of protein a day. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I've had almost no problems with food except I learned what not to do. Two days ago, I grabbed 1 oz of deli ham and sat down to eat it mindlessly. Not a smart thing to do at all! I got the foamies and then it felt like I had a rock in my pouch! Not a good feeling at all! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">So I'm working on slowing down while I'm eating and paying more attention. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Yesterday and today I've had a problem with diarrhea. Not sure where the heck it came from but it's not fun at all! So I have to stick close to home. Tried some Imodium pills but they're not working so I guess I need to get some liquid. Fun fun...not!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Overall I'm feeling really well and have been getting lots of planting in. Life is good!!</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00350026014227884597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5252992509152604399.post-21734528306808933992012-03-08T06:28:00.000-08:002012-03-08T06:28:59.806-08:00My surgery and aftermath<span style="font-size: large;">Well my surgery was on the 20th of February and I was so psyched. So calm, not a nerve in sight! Got to the hospital around 6am and soon afterwards Pat Cline joined us to tell me what was going to happen.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Things moved quickly and I was in holding waiting to go to the OR. I remember nothing after that until I woke up in recovery. Not sure of how long I was there but all the sudden I felt ill. I asked for a basin to vomit in. The nurse no sooner handed it to me and I started bringing up huge blood clots. Larger than the size of a golf ball. Then blood lots of blood. I think I passed out because I don't remember much after that. My blood sugars were over 500 and they were taking my blood sugars every hour. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I woke up and was told that I had been transfused with 4 units of blood, that I was obviously bleeding somewhere internally but they weren't sure where. My H&H was bottoming out and I was now in the ICU. Steven was standing by my side, pale as a ghost, looking so scared. I knew things were bad.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I don't remember Monday except a few slices of time, here and there and most of Tuesday is a blur too. Two more blood transfusions on Tuesday. I was still bleeding and they were trying to find out where. I guess they did a portable xray while I was out cold and they were concerned. My surgeon came in and jokingly told me to stop starting trouble. I told him that I would try. I passed out. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Wednesday came and I started having blood out both ends. Two more units of blood, H&H in the toilet again. Remarkably, I was in very little pain. Tons of doctors came in to see me, to check on me. I couldn't sleep in the bed, so I slept in the recliner. Every time Steven and Dillon came to see me, I could see the concern on their faces. Dillon fell apart on Wednesday and told me that he didn't want me to die. I held him tightly and told him that I would be okay. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Thursday came and I started to feel better. But my H&H still wasn't the best so another 2 units of blood to help. I had begun to itch to go home. I was finally able to get up out of bed on Thursday, still in the ICU and monitored closely, but at least I was able to walk around. They did the swallow test and it came back okay. They still don't have an explanation as to why I started vomiting blood. They said it happens in .00001% of all patients. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">On Friday I was told that they were going to move me from ICU to the gastric unit. I was thrilled. By Friday afternoon, I was doing so well that I no longer had any IV's, my PICC line was out, and I was off all monitors. I wanted to go home!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">All the nurses were wonderful to me in ICU and I knew I would miss them but I was "stepping down" and that was exciting! They moved me upstairs and the nursing unit said they didn't know what to do for me. LOL I wasn't hooked up to anything so I basically walked up and down the hallways trying to keep busy. Friday night I didn't sleep hardly at all. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Saturday morning, Dr. Bailey came in and told me that she was releasing me. I could have done a jig right then and there! Then she said she wanted to explain to me how critical I was. She explained that I was as close to deaths door as I could get. They were extremely worried because of all the blood I was losing and they couldn't find the source. She told me about Monday and Tuesday and said that she was very concerned and she was in to check on me many times. I was touched by her concern. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">When she left, I had some time to reflect. I did everything right. I lost 84 lbs before my surgery. I stuck to my liquid diet as hard as it was. I followed all the rules yet I still almost didn't survive. But I did! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Dr. Randy came in and chatted chickens with me and told me that he was taking me off all diabetes meds except for one. I was thrilled! He left and then the wait for the surgeon's office began. Finally I had the nurse call to find out where they were. She no sooner hung up the phone and they were walking down the hall!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I was out of there by 10am! Woohoo! When I got home, I got on the scale and saw I had gained 28 lbs! WOW! I knew I was swollen but never expected that much. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I was home 5 days and developed an infection in my drain site. Called the surgeon and they ordered liquid Levaquin. (YUCK!) They pulled the drain and staples and on March 6th, they advanced my diet. YAY!! Food never tasted so good after being on a liquid diet for a month. LOL</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Now, to sum it all up. Yes, I had a very difficult time after surgery. I almost lost my life. Yes I developed an infection afterwards.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">But would I change anything? No! I don't regret the surgery or the way its going to change my life. I'm 17 days out from surgery and I'm beginning to feel normal. I have energy that I didn't have before. I barely feel as though I had this surgery. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">This is my new life and I'm grateful for it!!</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00350026014227884597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5252992509152604399.post-7605497044863737272012-02-19T18:07:00.000-08:002012-02-19T18:07:06.647-08:00Well It's Here... My Day!!<span style="font-size: large;">Tomorrow's the day, actually just a few short hours away. I have to be at JCMC by 5am. Of course, we're having a snow storm!! Well it would be my life if it wasn't, as mom used to say!!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Today hasn't been a bad day .... well other than spending the day in the bathroom because of this bowel prep but I think its worth it.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">No regrets, no last minute rethinking about this...just full speed ahead. This is what I've been working toward. I started this journey at 329 lbs. I wanted to be 250 at my surgery date. Well I've made that and then some. I'm at 245.2!!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Dr. Watson says he knows I can lose 100 lbs with this surgery. Well I aim to please!! It's almost time to head to take a shower and then to bed. I'll be back on the flip side.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00350026014227884597noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5252992509152604399.post-72006373203460286042012-02-13T15:10:00.000-08:002012-02-13T15:10:14.743-08:00Day 4 of My Liquid Diet<span style="font-size: large;">So here I am, day 4 of my liquid diet. It hasn't been too bad because I've been sick since before day 1. No food cravings, no real desire to eat although I do miss the chewing sensation. When I eat some cottage cheese, I chew the stuffing out of it. LOL</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">And today, we went all the way down to JCMC for my pre-admission testing and guess what?? It's not until tomorrow! OMG, I can't believe I did that! But at least Steven got his knees x-rayed while were were down there. I can't believe that I screwed up that badly! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Six more days and my new life begins! I'm so excited, not really nervous yet. I guess that's a good thing. Probably the night before my surgery I'll be a mess! LOL But that's okay. I'm going to be alright. I have a great bunch of people who are all supporting me. I know alot of people don't tell anyone that they're having the surgery but I felt that I needed the support from people so I told everyone! LOL </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The support that I've gotten has been overwhelming positive with only a few people who have been detractors. But that's okay. I know this isn't going to be an easy journey but its MY journey. Dillon's had lots of questions and I've been answering them as he asks. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Steven has been so super supportive. He's amazing! My rock! As always! Life is good!!</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00350026014227884597noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5252992509152604399.post-12825700532465873702012-02-06T08:25:00.000-08:002012-02-06T08:25:03.586-08:00Approved & Got A Date!!<span style="font-size: large;">Things are happening quickly now! I'm approved for surgery! YAY!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">TriCare approved me in 2 days! How's that for fast?! Holy Moly! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">My surgery date is 2/20! I start my liquid diet this Friday on 2/10. Time is flying by. I'm so excited and nervous and all those other emotions are getting in there. This is the beginning of my new life! I have a couple of people who are worried about me. But I have done my research. This isn't something that I decided on a whim. This is something that I have been trying to have done since 2005. If it wasn't for my accident in 2006, I would have already had this surgery.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">All things happen for a reason and if it wasn't for my accident, I wouldn't be living here in TN more than likely so I'm not going to complain. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I have almost everything I need for my liquid diet. I still need to pick up a few things. When I got the instructions for the 19th, I laughed out loud! I'm going to be spending the entire day in the bathroom. HAHAAHAHA</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The bowl prep is horrendous! But Oh well what can I say, it has to be done. I'm going to have a permanent ring around my butt. I'll bring my netbook and a tray table in the bathroom with me and just relax on the throne for the day and probably the night. BAHAHAHAHAHA!!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">My friend Jane had her surgery on the 31st and she had a complication. Thank goodness they caught it. She started to bleed internally. But they caught it and she's now doing fine. She came home from the hospital yesterday. She sounds like her happy go lucky self again. I'm glad.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Fran and Megan are both having their surgeries today!! I wish them both luck! I told them to save me a seat on the Loser's bench!! <br />
'Cause I'm gonna be there soon!! Wooohooo!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Watch out world, here I come!!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00350026014227884597noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5252992509152604399.post-89466131824148866622012-01-14T11:19:00.000-08:002012-01-14T11:19:42.462-08:00Saw the Surgeon!!<span style="font-size: large;">So late Wednesday afternoon, I get a phone call from Watson's office telling me that they're missing my paperwork and my psych eval from my files. What? I brought my paperwork down there last Thursday myself and the receptionist said she was bringing it directly to Angela.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">There lies the problem. Angela either quit or was fired and no one could find my paperwork. I freaked out. I contacted Tedd Stephens and I contacted Pat Hughes and went off. Then I decided that I was going to go to my appointment anyway.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">My stomach was in knots all night long, I didn't sleep well. I went to my appointment, Steven went with me. He's the best. He's just been so darn supportive, I can't ask for anything more. We waited about an hour and they called us in. We saw Flo. I was down another pound. YAY ME! LOL</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Then I was told that I needed to take a test. A TEST?!? Hmmm Paula didn't tell me there was a stinkin' test! I'm gonna kill her. ROFL!! So I knew all the answers and where the questions were kinda fuzzy, I explained my answers. I aced it...of course. :)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Dr. Watson came in and talked to Steven and I. Explained the procedure, the risks and benefits. We set a goal for myself. He would like me to lose another 75 to 100 lbs. That's great because that's exactly what I would like to lose too! He told me that anything I lose after that (and its possible to lose more) would be great but he expects me to lose 75 to 100 lbs. Woohoo!! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I'm psyched, excited, nervous, and a whole bunch of other emotions are rolling around in my head. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Anyway, they told me that my weight loss history paperwork is wrong and that I needed the right paperwork sent to their office. I went to my PCP's office and told them to fax it to the surgeons office. The surgeon will send the paperwork to TriCare and we should hear from TriCare in about 2-3 weeks about my approval. Right now there's nothing I can do but sit and wait......</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00350026014227884597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5252992509152604399.post-5739149219361821232012-01-07T03:01:00.000-08:002012-01-07T03:01:14.020-08:00Paperwork turned in!!<span style="font-size: large;">Thursday we drove down to Johnson City and turned the paperwork into Dr. Watson's office. So that's done! Yay! I had to battle again on Wednesday with Dr. Chamberlains office to get the results of my pap. She had them at her house. UGH! What a relief that I never have to step foot in that office again. Starting February 2nd, I start at Dr. Wayt's office!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">In the meantime, I have an appointment on the 12th down at Dr. Watson's office at 10:30am. Yes! But I have to admit I'm a bit hesitant and even a bit sick to my stomach thinking about the surgery. I was all gung ho about it before but now that the time in closing in, the nervousness is setting in.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I guess its a good thing that I'm nervous. I've heard others say how nervous they have gotten before their surgeries. My hands shake and I get butterflies in my stomach when I think about it but I know that this is my best plan of action on getting healthy.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Steven is being so very supportive and that helps so much. I don't know what I would do without his support and his love. He's my rock, the love of my life. With him, I can get through anything.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I've gotten together all kinds of stuff that I'm going to need on this journey. I'm prepared, now just to get myself prepared mentally......</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00350026014227884597noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5252992509152604399.post-58533241853689101352011-12-27T13:52:00.000-08:002011-12-27T13:52:34.888-08:00Final Consult Date!!<span style="font-size: large;">I called Dr. Watson's office today and got a final consult date of January 5, 2012 @ 10:30am! I'm so excited! This is going to happen this time! I have all my paperwork, just have to get the statement that I had my pap done. I'll go pick that up this week. Then we'll take a ride down to JC to bring all my paperwork down to Dr. Watson's office. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I'm not trusting USPS to bring this paperwork. No no no! I'm hand delivering it myself to the office. It's a nice drive down there and with Dillon out of school it will be a good drive for him as well. Maybe we'll take him out to lunch or something. :)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I have so many thoughts racing through my head. A checklist of things that have to do be done before my surgery. Once I have my final consult, Dr. Watson's office will submit my paperwork to Tri Care and it should take between a week to two weeks for me to hear back from them if I was approved or not. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I'm so excited, I can barely sit still! Nine days before I see the surgeon! Woooohoooo!! </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00350026014227884597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5252992509152604399.post-59135090057429676942011-12-26T11:57:00.000-08:002011-12-26T11:57:08.771-08:00UGH!<span style="font-size: large;">UGH, stomach is so upset! This damn medicine for the MRSA always does a job on my stomach. I can't keep anything down. Last night I had a baked potato for dinner after getting sick when I tried to eat some broth. I haven't had potatoes in 5 months. I was actually able to keep the potato down.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Today, I had a protein shake and I swear it's laying on my stomach. I'm doing everything I can to keep it IN my stomach because I need the nourishment. I can't live on baked potatoes while I'm on these meds. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Tomorrow I can call Dr. Watson's office and schedule my final consult, thank goodness. Steven is concerned about the MRSA and my pouch. What's going to happen if I have to take these meds and I have the pouch? A legitimate question I suppose. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">No exercise the last few days other than chores and some walking around the property. I'm so sick from the meds that I'm unbalanced on my feet. One day at a time, I guess. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Janee got her approval from Tri Care South. I'm so thrilled for her. Amanda has lost 59 lbs since 11/14. She's doing amazing! I'm so proud of her. Soon I'll be on the losers bench too! YAY!!</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00350026014227884597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5252992509152604399.post-58233393029826674542011-12-22T18:39:00.000-08:002011-12-22T18:39:57.813-08:00I got my letters!!!!!<span style="font-size: large;">Woooohoooo!! I got my letters!!! I went in there today completely prepared. I had 2 copies of sample medical necessity letters and a huge attitude!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I was down another pound as well! When Dr. Abusara came in the exam room, I hit him with both barrels. I explained that my blood sugars are out of control and that I'm having numerous outbreaks of MRSA due to the stress I was under. I told him that it was his and Dr Chamberlain's fault that I'm so stressed out and that I was not leaving the office until my letters were done.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">He immediately went and got Dr. Chamberlain and I blasted her too!! She walked out. Dr Abusara apologized over and over again. He had gone to Pakistan for 6 weeks. Dr Chamberlain told him that she was going to write my letters and he assumed she had.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I spent 3 hours and 45 minutes waiting for my letters but I got them!!! He even gave me a great big hug and wished me luck! Tomorrow I'll call Dr. Watson's office and schedule my final consult..again!!!</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00350026014227884597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5252992509152604399.post-9300627380687098362011-12-20T19:04:00.000-08:002011-12-20T19:04:07.457-08:00Two more days....<span style="font-size: large;">...and I see Dr. Abusara. Hopefully, he'll either have my letters or he'll write my letters while I'm there. I'm not going to hold my breathe but I'm hopeful.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I just did 30 minutes on the treadmill. I really pushed myself more than I had previously. My legs and hip is a bit sore but I feel good. I should sleep pretty darn good tonight. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Yule is today and its also the anniversary of mom's death. It's been a rough month. I miss mom so much. I wish I could pick up the phone and call her or wrap my arms around her and hug her one more time. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I had a chocolate protein shake, yum yum. Two chicken thighs, some greek yogurt, strawberries. A good food day.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I'll update on Thursday after my Dr's appt.</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00350026014227884597noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5252992509152604399.post-4758476012732717412011-12-18T18:59:00.000-08:002011-12-18T18:59:42.800-08:00It's been awhile...<span style="font-size: large;">It's been awhile since I've blogged but things started sliding downhill. Actually I'm still doing okay but my doctors aren't co-operating. Dr Abusara promised to have my letter written and my weight history to me before 11/1. Of course 11/1 has come and gone and I still don't have my letters. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I had to cancel my final consult appt with the surgeon because of it. I've been so depressed. I tried to get in with a new Dr. but she can't see me until 2/2/2012. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">It's hard not to get into a major depression over all of this. I should have already had my surgery. There are people who just started this journey and they've already had their surgery or already have a surgery date. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Anyway, I'm keeping on and I'm now down to my lowest weight in 23 years!! Still have a bit over 100 lbs to lose but I'm going to keep on, surgery or no surgery. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Dr's appt on the 22nd so we'll see where I stand after that. Wouldn't it be nice if my letters were done and waiting for me? Of course, I won't hold my breathe. </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00350026014227884597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5252992509152604399.post-24288806053788944172011-10-17T19:16:00.000-07:002011-10-17T19:16:23.991-07:00Sore, hurting, and in pain!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Well I guess I overdid it yesterday. By last night my feet were on fire the second I took my shoes off. The neuropathy in my feet was reminding me that I'm not used to doing so much walking, dancing, climbing as I did yesterday. Point made and I'll be working on that one. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">This morning I woke up to excruciating pain. I thought at first it was my hip but I realize now its not the hip at all, its the upper thigh muscle. And man oh man is it screaming at me...LOUDLY. Every single time I move, its saying, "WHAT DID YOU DO TO ME?!" </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">So I laid low today, didn't do too much and I'm hoping to wake up feeling better tomorrow. I don't want to be down too long. I want to get back up on the horse so to speak and get moving! </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I also didn't eat much today. Just a protein shake, some cottage cheese and a sugar free popsicle. I'm not hungry at all and I had to force myself to eat what I did. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Can't wait for my appointment with Dr. Abusera on Thursday so I can get this stuff moving! I hope he has my letter written. If not I'm NOT going to be happy! </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Anyway, I'm headed to bed. I just wrapped a couple dozen eggs and I'm bushed! </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00350026014227884597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5252992509152604399.post-6078836508138700202011-10-16T13:39:00.000-07:002011-10-16T13:39:02.851-07:00It'a a great Sunday!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Great day! Slept in this morning, felt so good. Got up, checked my blood sugar. It was 145. Not bad. Better than the 200's that it had been, even with the insulin! Made a chocolate protein shake. YUM! Drank that and decided that I wanted to go for a walk. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">We drove into town and walked in the small town park. Dillon kept stopping to tie his shoe. (One day, I swear he WILL learn to tie his shoes correctly! LOL) I took a few pictures with my phone and we walked. There was this older couple there, I would say mid to late 70's that was walking too. They soon passed me. I was a bit disgruntled and blamed Dillon but it wasn't him. It was ME. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I'm terribly out of shape and I know this about myself. I haven't regularly exercised in years. I'm over 250 lbs and I need to accept the fact that I have to take things slowly. I need to work at my own pace and not try to compete with others. Something I need to remind myself. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I am a unique individual and nothing I do is going to be like anyone else. I just need to keep on keeping on and I'm hit my goal! Keep my eye on the prize. The prize is a healthier ME!</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00350026014227884597noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5252992509152604399.post-24120064230708475982011-10-14T12:55:00.000-07:002011-10-14T12:55:15.684-07:00Looking & feeling GREAT!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Still haven't had my surgery but I'm plugging along. All potatoes, rice, pasta, breads have been cut from my diet as well as diet coke and my seltzer water. Those were the two hardest to get rid of. It's been 3 weeks since I've had a soda and I feel great! I don't even crave one and that makes me feel even better!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I'm down the 10% that I wanted to lose beforehand and I'm just going to keep on losing until I have my surgery. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Last night I tried on some old bras and shirts that I haven't been able to wear in years and years. I was so shocked that they fit! A few were even too big! I got this huge smile on my face. I came out "modeling" for Steven. He whistled and told me that I'm looking good. THAT made me cry! </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Steven is giving me such great support and so many of my friends like Karen, Christine, Laura, Nan, Sherry, and so many more. Too many to list here. I wouldn't be able to do this without the support of so many of my wonderful friends that I have. The one person who's support I wish I had is my daughter but she's cut herself off from my life for whatever imagined reason again. So be it. But it would be nice to have her cheering in my corner. I'm not going to let it get me down. She told me that she no longer wants me in her life and I'm not going to persue it. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Anyway, happier things...I've been drinking one or two protein shakes a day. It all depends on my mood for the day. I've been experimenting with flavors and such. Yesterday, I added a teaspoon of peanut butter to my chocolate shake. Oh to die for! It was like I was eating a Reese's peanut butter cup. Adding frozen strawberries and bananas to the strawberry shake. Lowfat whipped cream to the cappuccino protein shake. Yummm! I'm loving it! And losing weight to boot! Who knew it could be this good?!?!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I have a Drs appointment next week for my last requirement, my danged pap smear. Hopefully Dr. Abusera has my letter ready to go to my surgeon or else I'm going to scream. I guess I need to get on the ball and get working on my letter as well. Maybe as soon as I get done with this journal entry. Maybe I can get my surgery done in November, with any luck?</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00350026014227884597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5252992509152604399.post-61962566372400469602011-09-05T22:05:00.000-07:002011-09-05T22:05:03.382-07:00Things Are Moving Along!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Well phone calls this week to Dr Stephens & ETSU Physicians. Mammogram on Thursday. Pre-op WLS meeting on late Friday afternoon. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Next week is xrays on hips, pre-op scheduling and the EGD on the 16th. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Keeping my chin up because I'd like things done yesterday. I've been getting up early and exercising. Yesterday I did WATP with Leslie Sansone. No hip pain so that's good. Keep on keeping on!!!</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00350026014227884597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5252992509152604399.post-55826270984632249572011-08-21T14:31:00.000-07:002011-08-21T14:31:15.133-07:00Two more bite the dust!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Two more lbs bite the dust! Actually 2.4 lbs! Woohoo! Ribs still a little bit sore and I'm actually just starting to wear a bra again so that could be why. Oh well.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I go to my surgeon's consult on Tuesday. I can't wait! My appointment is at 1pm. Paula has to be there at 10:10am. I may end up running down there early so I can see her. We'll see. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I'm feeling pretty good, not as tired as I was so I think my body is adjusting to my consuming less carbs. My actually weight loss now is 15.4 lbs. Just a little less than 15 more to go before surgery. We'll see what they say at the surgeons on Tuesday. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I have an appointment to see Dr. Diaz on September 1st to go over my lab results. Definitely looking forward to everything going on.</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00350026014227884597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5252992509152604399.post-43718104657463658382011-08-13T18:08:00.000-07:002011-08-13T18:08:39.335-07:00Still in pain from ribs!I<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I can't believe that I'm still in pain from my ribs! I'm still with the program, still losing weight and still working things out. I'm eating about 90% less carbs and although its making me more tired, I'm losing weight. I need to have my body get adjusted to less carbs and then I'll be fine I think.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I've also been out walking around 2 acres of our property nightly on Predator Patrol from 2 to 5 hours every night. With the number of birds that we've had attacked and killed, I've taken to using the .22 rifle instead of the shotgun. It has less of a "kick". </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I think the extra exercise is working toward the weight loss. I lost lbs in the last week. Its not alot but its something. Weight is going down and that's the main thing.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">My sleep study was a bust, I fear. I couldn't sleep all night. I tossed and turned, was awake most of the night. I think I'm going to have ot do it over again. I go back to see Dr. Diaz on September 1st. to get the results of all the testing that I've had.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">On August 23rd, I go to see Dr. Watson & Hodges office for my first consultation. It seems as though the time is dragging. UGH!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Anyway, 1 cup of chili with 1/4 cup monterey jack cheese for dinner. Yummy. Protein, protein, protein!!</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00350026014227884597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5252992509152604399.post-4120376447270855532011-07-16T11:54:00.000-07:002011-07-16T11:54:49.108-07:00Realizations kicking in<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">This morning, after I got up, I needed to get some chicks out of the cabinet incubator. Well they had gotten out of their drawer and were on the floor of it. That means that I needed to get on my hands & knees and reach deep inside with a coat hanger to get the ones way in the back. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Getting down there was no problem, but one of the little buggers just didn't want to come to the front! So I'm reaching and reaching. In the meantime, I'm sweating, I'm lightheaded, getting dizzy, afraid I'm going to fall on my face all while trying to get just one of them. I almost closed the darn thing and said "the hell with it", but knew I couldn't. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I finally reached one more time with the coat hanger, got him inside it and pulled him forward. When I stood up, everything was swimming. I needed to sit on the bed for a few moments because I thought I was going to pass out.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">It shouldn't be like this! If I was thinner, more nimble, I wouldn't have this problem. </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00350026014227884597noreply@blogger.com0