I went back to Schaumburg last weekend to see some friends do their graduation portfolio show. While I was in town I caught up with peopleI hadn't seen in since in a very long time. When I was back in IL the smallest I managed to get to was 205 (and I think that was just for a day). Ironically that was the weight I was when I visited. A few people who I wouldn't expect to recognize me did, and two said that I looked exactly the same as I did the last time they saw me.
I was pleased.
You see the smallest I have /ever/ been was 205, the fact that I've already hit it and I continue to lose weight (weighed at 202 after my shower today) is really encouraging.
P.S. Mom is 4 lbs shy of losing 40. I am a little jealous.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Friday, December 4, 2009
Holiday Parties
So last night was the company Holiday Party and I had a good enough time.
It was at Waldo, a pizza joint I'd never heard of in an area I'd never been to. I had asked mom what would be appropriate to wear, this was this first time I'd ever been to a company Holiday party before and I wanted to make a decent impression. They said nothing too dressy since it was just a pizza joint. So when I was going through my closet yesterday I stumbled upon these black pants I got after I graduated and haven't been able to wear since then. I decided to try the suckers on, just to see how much farther I had to go before I could start wearing clothes from that time.
Imagine my surprise when they comfortably fit.
The last few weeks I've been wearing size 24, the pants in question are a size 20 w.
Now if that isn't exciting then I don't know what is.
It was at Waldo, a pizza joint I'd never heard of in an area I'd never been to. I had asked mom what would be appropriate to wear, this was this first time I'd ever been to a company Holiday party before and I wanted to make a decent impression. They said nothing too dressy since it was just a pizza joint. So when I was going through my closet yesterday I stumbled upon these black pants I got after I graduated and haven't been able to wear since then. I decided to try the suckers on, just to see how much farther I had to go before I could start wearing clothes from that time.
Imagine my surprise when they comfortably fit.
The last few weeks I've been wearing size 24, the pants in question are a size 20 w.
Now if that isn't exciting then I don't know what is.
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Stuffed on stuffing
In case anyone was curious to see what my Thanksgiving plate looked like:
That's green bean casserole, stuffing, mac&cheese, mashed potatoes with gravy, a sweet pickle, and turkey. I did not eat it all. I managed to clear all but the stuffing and was miserable the rest of the day.
Not the "I'm going to be sick miserable" but the "I ate a little too much I'm going to do nothing for the rest of the day go away" miserable.
Speaking of food.. I did a Wendy's drive through today. I got a little variety off of the dollar menu and it smelled SO GOOD. I got a little of a cheese burger, and a few chickie nuggets, I stole some of dad's fries. I couldn't wait.
And it tastes bad.
They said my mind would start to catch up to my body about this time.
Damn.
Even the smell of it is upsetting my stomach. Ugh. Smells are more important now too. Icky.
That's green bean casserole, stuffing, mac&cheese, mashed potatoes with gravy, a sweet pickle, and turkey. I did not eat it all. I managed to clear all but the stuffing and was miserable the rest of the day.
Not the "I'm going to be sick miserable" but the "I ate a little too much I'm going to do nothing for the rest of the day go away" miserable.
Speaking of food.. I did a Wendy's drive through today. I got a little variety off of the dollar menu and it smelled SO GOOD. I got a little of a cheese burger, and a few chickie nuggets, I stole some of dad's fries. I couldn't wait.
And it tastes bad.
They said my mind would start to catch up to my body about this time.
Damn.
Even the smell of it is upsetting my stomach. Ugh. Smells are more important now too. Icky.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Breakfast
I thought I would post a picture of the various pills I'm taking right now.
Please keep in mind that this doesn't account for ALL my "meds".
The three on my fingers are: prilosec (4 times a day), actugall (2 times a day) multi-vitamin (3 times a day).
The two on my palm are supplements I started taking for the urinary and yeast infections. They're garlic and cranberry pills, I take them about twice a day.
I also have to take citracil (2 times a day) and pepto-bismol (4 times a day).
It won't be another 2 months until I can take the pill version of citracil.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
They say losing weight gives you more energy
Boy.. am I tired, almost too tired to go take a shower.
I didn't do too hot at the gym today, I had some light headedness, acid crawling up my esophagus, dizziness, or just always short of breath. I actually ended up doing less reps on a machine today, but my trainer tried to encourage me by saying my form had improved greatly.
I'm just.. /so tired/. I didn't do good with the whole eating thing today. I had a few bites of a protein bar at 8am and decided to call that quits until I determined if it was user friendly or not. I didn't get to eat anything else until 3:40pm. Which was a few bites of stuffing and mac and cheese. Heedless to say that didn't last but 10 minutes. For dinner mom and I swung by Sonic and I had a chili wrap and that managed to last 5 minutes before I spent another 30 minutes in the bathroom regretting it.
I also didn't take a gatorade bottle with me today, so I'm short on that too.
There's my problem.
just so tired.
I didn't do too hot at the gym today, I had some light headedness, acid crawling up my esophagus, dizziness, or just always short of breath. I actually ended up doing less reps on a machine today, but my trainer tried to encourage me by saying my form had improved greatly.
I'm just.. /so tired/. I didn't do good with the whole eating thing today. I had a few bites of a protein bar at 8am and decided to call that quits until I determined if it was user friendly or not. I didn't get to eat anything else until 3:40pm. Which was a few bites of stuffing and mac and cheese. Heedless to say that didn't last but 10 minutes. For dinner mom and I swung by Sonic and I had a chili wrap and that managed to last 5 minutes before I spent another 30 minutes in the bathroom regretting it.
I also didn't take a gatorade bottle with me today, so I'm short on that too.
There's my problem.
just so tired.
Monday, November 23, 2009
This post might be a little TMI
Weigh in- I started at 233 and currently weigh 214
Also, this is a guy I can relate to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0q6Gc23ZtPA
So this post is pretty much going to be a bit TMI.
Don't read it if you get squeamish about crotch troubles.
ok. So here's what's going on. After the surgery I haven't been able to get enough liquids in me, which means I'm pretty much open for bladder infections. This sucks, it hurts to pee. Also, on top of that I've had an obnoxious to mild yeast infection. This isn't something I didn't see pop up while doing research.
For the yeast infection I've basically been doing home remedies like wearing cotton undies, drinking a lot of cranberry juice, and going commando with loose pajama bottoms at night. When the inevitable bladder infection reared its ugly head I broke down and bought some cranberry supplements and some garlic pills. Supposedly garlic is good for yeast infections which I hope once that clears out the bladder infection won't be far behind.
Also, I've noticed that whenever I eat anything I have to make a running dash for the bathroom anywhere from 5-20 minutes later. I am usually not a pleasant camper after that. I've started carrying my own can of air freshener and I'm tempted to also bring my own roll of toilet paper too.
The best part about working at a nursing home is that everyone is already used to the smell of poo and the unattractive sounds that usually comes with it.
Also, this is a guy I can relate to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0q6Gc23ZtPA
So this post is pretty much going to be a bit TMI.
Don't read it if you get squeamish about crotch troubles.
ok. So here's what's going on. After the surgery I haven't been able to get enough liquids in me, which means I'm pretty much open for bladder infections. This sucks, it hurts to pee. Also, on top of that I've had an obnoxious to mild yeast infection. This isn't something I didn't see pop up while doing research.
For the yeast infection I've basically been doing home remedies like wearing cotton undies, drinking a lot of cranberry juice, and going commando with loose pajama bottoms at night. When the inevitable bladder infection reared its ugly head I broke down and bought some cranberry supplements and some garlic pills. Supposedly garlic is good for yeast infections which I hope once that clears out the bladder infection won't be far behind.
Also, I've noticed that whenever I eat anything I have to make a running dash for the bathroom anywhere from 5-20 minutes later. I am usually not a pleasant camper after that. I've started carrying my own can of air freshener and I'm tempted to also bring my own roll of toilet paper too.
The best part about working at a nursing home is that everyone is already used to the smell of poo and the unattractive sounds that usually comes with it.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
6oz stomach
Forgive me readers for I have sucked, it has been 14 days since my last update.
So, what has happened in those 14 days? Well, we've progressed from yogurt and broth to soft foods (refried beans, mashed potatoes, baked potatoes, mac & cheese) to "regular" food.
Now when you're starting up the "regular" food diet, you're suppose to take it slow. Cheerios, some deli meats, and baked fish. The less intense the better.
Our first solid food was pizza.
DO NOT JUDGE ME.
I took everything off but the cheese and I chewed that sucker until it was liquid. It was the most delicious thing I had tasted in my life, which is saying something considering it was from Sbarros and I hate Sbarros. The piece I got was smaller than my thumb.
Since then I've tried tater tots, cheddar bites, frito chili wraps, pizza pockets, pizza bagel bites, various soups, some chinese food, a toasted rueben sandwich, and some hot german potato salad.
Everything seems to have been agreeing with me so far, none of the food has caused any stomach aches however some has caused my poo to smell worse than usual (It was the soup, ironically).
The only thing that really gave me any grief was the lactose free milk. I had about two fingers worth in a glass with some buffalo pretzel bites and not 10 minutes later (about the time it takes for food to get to my stomach now) I had cramps and the runs (which considering I've had nothing but liquid poo since the surgery, that's saying something).
I'm afraid of food again. Before the surgery I wasn't so much afraid of eating as I was ashamed that I ate. Now I'm afraid. At the same time, however, I'm curious and feeling rather adventurous. "Can I eat this? Let's try!"
I'm also going to the gym twice a week, my trainer is a doll.
Or so I kept reminding myself when I had trouble moving today.
My ass hurts in ways I never knew it could
Today is the three week anniversary, and when I weighed over the weekend I had lost a grand total of 15lbs.
I started at 233, I am now 218.
Yay!
The lady at work who also had the surgery came to see me today, and she started squealing with glee. I now have my cheek bones back.
Welcome back, welcome back, welcome back.
So, what has happened in those 14 days? Well, we've progressed from yogurt and broth to soft foods (refried beans, mashed potatoes, baked potatoes, mac & cheese) to "regular" food.
Now when you're starting up the "regular" food diet, you're suppose to take it slow. Cheerios, some deli meats, and baked fish. The less intense the better.
Our first solid food was pizza.
DO NOT JUDGE ME.
I took everything off but the cheese and I chewed that sucker until it was liquid. It was the most delicious thing I had tasted in my life, which is saying something considering it was from Sbarros and I hate Sbarros. The piece I got was smaller than my thumb.
Since then I've tried tater tots, cheddar bites, frito chili wraps, pizza pockets, pizza bagel bites, various soups, some chinese food, a toasted rueben sandwich, and some hot german potato salad.
Everything seems to have been agreeing with me so far, none of the food has caused any stomach aches however some has caused my poo to smell worse than usual (It was the soup, ironically).
The only thing that really gave me any grief was the lactose free milk. I had about two fingers worth in a glass with some buffalo pretzel bites and not 10 minutes later (about the time it takes for food to get to my stomach now) I had cramps and the runs (which considering I've had nothing but liquid poo since the surgery, that's saying something).
I'm afraid of food again. Before the surgery I wasn't so much afraid of eating as I was ashamed that I ate. Now I'm afraid. At the same time, however, I'm curious and feeling rather adventurous. "Can I eat this? Let's try!"
I'm also going to the gym twice a week, my trainer is a doll.
Or so I kept reminding myself when I had trouble moving today.
My ass hurts in ways I never knew it could
Today is the three week anniversary, and when I weighed over the weekend I had lost a grand total of 15lbs.
I started at 233, I am now 218.
Yay!
The lady at work who also had the surgery came to see me today, and she started squealing with glee. I now have my cheek bones back.
Welcome back, welcome back, welcome back.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Staple free is the way to be
Got my staples out today.
Hallelujah.
They felt funny coming out, and itched a little afterwards.. but oh man it feels so much better to not cut my fingers on them anymore. The little holes around my incisions look worse than the incisions do. We had a little lecture on what to do for the rest of Stage 1 and how to handle Stage 2, then we had our first weigh in.
I started at 234, I'm down to 223.
That's 11 lbs in one week.
HUZZAH!
After that we drove home. Surprisingly we were able to make it the whole trip without making any stops. I was impressed since mom usually needs a pit stop every half hour. I was concerned that my dumping syndrome would kick in since I didn't go to the bathroom before we left, I did just fine though.
Ran like hell to the toilet the second I got out of the car, but hey, I made the trip juuuust fine.
Hallelujah.
They felt funny coming out, and itched a little afterwards.. but oh man it feels so much better to not cut my fingers on them anymore. The little holes around my incisions look worse than the incisions do. We had a little lecture on what to do for the rest of Stage 1 and how to handle Stage 2, then we had our first weigh in.
I started at 234, I'm down to 223.
That's 11 lbs in one week.
HUZZAH!
After that we drove home. Surprisingly we were able to make it the whole trip without making any stops. I was impressed since mom usually needs a pit stop every half hour. I was concerned that my dumping syndrome would kick in since I didn't go to the bathroom before we left, I did just fine though.
Ran like hell to the toilet the second I got out of the car, but hey, I made the trip juuuust fine.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Faulty support system
Mom did the surgery with me so that she could support me through this.
I honestly can't help but wonder if I'd be having an easier time on my own.
Mom's been entertaining the idea of buying steak so she can lick it or chew to just spit out. I've been very adamant in insisting she not, saying it would almost be more cruel. She eventually whimpers and simpers at me but in the end she gives in. She sulks about it and is annoying for awhile but she always sees logic...
Mom had her first break down today. We swung by Wal-Mart to pick up some soap to do laundry and of course their laundry stuff is over by the other groceries.
Like food.
She wanted to check out the goldfish crackers, and that was fine since we picked up another few packets of goldfish crackers. Next to the crackers were various jars of peanut butter. She wanted to grab one but I forced her onwards and managed to put the peanut butter back. This peeved her off. By now I got a phone call and was talking to the person, I was following mom on instinct, not really paying all that much attention. So I was kind of surprised to find us in the middle of the frozen foods section.
Somewhere between peanut butter and frozen pizzas mom had come to the decision that she was going to get a frozen burrito. This opened up an all out argument between us. In the middle of Wal-Mart... over an 89 cent burrito.
Nice.
She threw a bit of a tempter tantrum, I did the silent treatment thing, and she ended up calling somebody else who had had the surgery. She talked mom out of the burrito and mom continued to complain for the rest of the afternoon.
Blood. Eee. Hell.
I honestly can't help but wonder if I'd be having an easier time on my own.
Mom's been entertaining the idea of buying steak so she can lick it or chew to just spit out. I've been very adamant in insisting she not, saying it would almost be more cruel. She eventually whimpers and simpers at me but in the end she gives in. She sulks about it and is annoying for awhile but she always sees logic...
Mom had her first break down today. We swung by Wal-Mart to pick up some soap to do laundry and of course their laundry stuff is over by the other groceries.
Like food.
She wanted to check out the goldfish crackers, and that was fine since we picked up another few packets of goldfish crackers. Next to the crackers were various jars of peanut butter. She wanted to grab one but I forced her onwards and managed to put the peanut butter back. This peeved her off. By now I got a phone call and was talking to the person, I was following mom on instinct, not really paying all that much attention. So I was kind of surprised to find us in the middle of the frozen foods section.
Somewhere between peanut butter and frozen pizzas mom had come to the decision that she was going to get a frozen burrito. This opened up an all out argument between us. In the middle of Wal-Mart... over an 89 cent burrito.
Nice.
She threw a bit of a tempter tantrum, I did the silent treatment thing, and she ended up calling somebody else who had had the surgery. She talked mom out of the burrito and mom continued to complain for the rest of the afternoon.
Blood. Eee. Hell.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Pink Medicine=Black Tongue?
BLAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH
My tongue is black, thanks to the pepto-bismol.It is not pretty... they didn't really warn us about that until after the surgery.
Mom keeps bemoaning the loss of food and it's starting to get to me. At first I was indifferent towards food but now that mom keeps going on and on about it I find myself missing food I can chew. My cravings seem to be towards sweet things like waffles or brownies. I also wouldn't mind some sushi.
Mom's wanting steak, Italian, or Mexican food.
Tonight's beef broth seems to have appeased her for now.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Tender tummies and Happy Halloween
Well, the last week or two seems to have flown by.
I had my surgery a few days ago, but wasn't able to/didn't really feel up to blogging until today.
The one thing I'd like to say up front is that it HURT. I was either in pain or discomfort for most of the past few days. I'm doing better now, but mom's still uncomfortable. We think this has more to do with mom's hernia than anything. The doctor had tried to fix her hernia while he was working on her surgery. Every once in awhile she'll make an uncomfortable sound but it does seem like she's doing better.
But anyway, back to me, I was in pain when I woke up. They could not have hit me up with the happy juice fast enough and the second my candy button was set up I gave that bad boy a work out. When the nurses deemed it time that I get off the push button and go on the regular pain pills I had managed to use up all the allotted morphine.
I did alright with walking, the first time they suggested it I was up and stumbling around the hallways. They walked me passed mom's room so I'd know where to find her a few hours later and by the time I got back I was sore and stiff. I decided that nothing sounded better than a nice hot shower. The nurses were nice enough to tape up my tummy and let me sit in the shower for what felt like a few hours.
I just want to say that the nurses and technicians were the nicest people. They took good care of us.
I ended up staying an extra day at the hospital, mostly because of the discomfort I'd mentioned earlier. Basically I wasn't able to sit, lay, or stand comfortably without taking a pain pill and the doctor didn't want to send us me out like that. I also had a slight fever that night as well.
But all things said and done I'm fine. Still a little discomfort depending on how I sit or move.
A lot of people say they don't have a lot of pain, or talk about going out and doing things the next day... all I gotta say is that wasn't the case for us.
Also, I've not really had a taste for food. This was a problem at the hospital since they really wanted me to get something in my tummy, but now that I'm out I've been doing better with eating. The whipped chocolate mouse yogurt is my food of choice.
I have had one weird dream so far, it was a dream about nachos and mom and I said that we didn't care we wanted the nachos. I kept expecting pain in the dream but nothing. Oooo dreams.
Happy Halloween all.
I had my surgery a few days ago, but wasn't able to/didn't really feel up to blogging until today.
The one thing I'd like to say up front is that it HURT. I was either in pain or discomfort for most of the past few days. I'm doing better now, but mom's still uncomfortable. We think this has more to do with mom's hernia than anything. The doctor had tried to fix her hernia while he was working on her surgery. Every once in awhile she'll make an uncomfortable sound but it does seem like she's doing better.
But anyway, back to me, I was in pain when I woke up. They could not have hit me up with the happy juice fast enough and the second my candy button was set up I gave that bad boy a work out. When the nurses deemed it time that I get off the push button and go on the regular pain pills I had managed to use up all the allotted morphine.
I did alright with walking, the first time they suggested it I was up and stumbling around the hallways. They walked me passed mom's room so I'd know where to find her a few hours later and by the time I got back I was sore and stiff. I decided that nothing sounded better than a nice hot shower. The nurses were nice enough to tape up my tummy and let me sit in the shower for what felt like a few hours.
I just want to say that the nurses and technicians were the nicest people. They took good care of us.
I ended up staying an extra day at the hospital, mostly because of the discomfort I'd mentioned earlier. Basically I wasn't able to sit, lay, or stand comfortably without taking a pain pill and the doctor didn't want to send us me out like that. I also had a slight fever that night as well.
But all things said and done I'm fine. Still a little discomfort depending on how I sit or move.
A lot of people say they don't have a lot of pain, or talk about going out and doing things the next day... all I gotta say is that wasn't the case for us.
Also, I've not really had a taste for food. This was a problem at the hospital since they really wanted me to get something in my tummy, but now that I'm out I've been doing better with eating. The whipped chocolate mouse yogurt is my food of choice.
I have had one weird dream so far, it was a dream about nachos and mom and I said that we didn't care we wanted the nachos. I kept expecting pain in the dream but nothing. Oooo dreams.
Happy Halloween all.
Friday, October 16, 2009
Professionalism need not apply-CORRECTION
Lauren did not answer, nor did she call us back. Mom left a very polite voice mail.
It's not my intention to turn this blog into a drama rant.. but seriously?
CORRECTION
My phone started vibrating at 6 this morning. I had 3 text messages, 1 missed call and 1 voice mail.
Apparently Lauren did call us yesterday. I just didn't get it until today. She faxed and emailed a copy directly to Dr. Hargroder, and had been talking to him (not to Robin) hence why Robin and the secretary had not heard from her.
She had her reasons, but it is still extremely frustrating.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
The last person you expect to mess up is usually the first to
So.. real stressful last few hours... and it's going to be a tense weekend.
I called Dr. Hargroder's office earlier today to see if they ever got our psych evals. Robin wasn't in yet so the secretary said they'd call me back.
I got a call around 3:00, apparently yesterday was our "cut off" day, and they never got the psych evals. Robin, the lady in charge of making sure everything is turned in on time, was kind enough to give us until 5pm today (october 15'th) to get the psych evals in. So I called our psychiatrist.
Her: "Hello."
Me: "Hi Lauren! It's Elizabeth Hoadley, I got a call from Dr. Hargroder's offi-"
Her: "I'll call Dr. Hargroder."
Me: "..Alright. Yesterday was our cut off date, and they need it by today."
Her: "I'll call his office now, bye." *click*
Me: "Alright.. bye."
I waited an hour and called the Doc's office and got the very tolerant secretary. I asked if she'd heard anything and she hadn't. She asked Robin if Robin had heard anything... she hadn't. I explained that I had called the psychiatrist and gave her the low down. Robin was generous enough to say she would accept the letters on Monday.
So frustrated. We gave her $500, she had guarantee that they'd have it on time, only for her to NOT do her job.
I called Dr. Hargroder's office earlier today to see if they ever got our psych evals. Robin wasn't in yet so the secretary said they'd call me back.
I got a call around 3:00, apparently yesterday was our "cut off" day, and they never got the psych evals. Robin, the lady in charge of making sure everything is turned in on time, was kind enough to give us until 5pm today (october 15'th) to get the psych evals in. So I called our psychiatrist.
Her: "Hello."
Me: "Hi Lauren! It's Elizabeth Hoadley, I got a call from Dr. Hargroder's offi-"
Her: "I'll call Dr. Hargroder."
Me: "..Alright. Yesterday was our cut off date, and they need it by today."
Her: "I'll call his office now, bye." *click*
Me: "Alright.. bye."
I waited an hour and called the Doc's office and got the very tolerant secretary. I asked if she'd heard anything and she hadn't. She asked Robin if Robin had heard anything... she hadn't. I explained that I had called the psychiatrist and gave her the low down. Robin was generous enough to say she would accept the letters on Monday.
So frustrated. We gave her $500, she had guarantee that they'd have it on time, only for her to NOT do her job.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Ho hum
So after a few phone calls we got all the required information to Hargroder's office.
Everything but the psych evaluation.
The thing we did early September, with the lady who does a lot of stuff for the MGB group... who had been suggested to use by Dr. Hargroder...
Yeah.
I called her twice today, the first on her business line and the second time on her more personal line. She'll be sending it out tomorrow.
So with all that handled out all we need to do is get the meds next week and show up in Joplin on the 27'th.
I AM READY TO GET THIS DONE
Everything but the psych evaluation.
The thing we did early September, with the lady who does a lot of stuff for the MGB group... who had been suggested to use by Dr. Hargroder...
Yeah.
I called her twice today, the first on her business line and the second time on her more personal line. She'll be sending it out tomorrow.
So with all that handled out all we need to do is get the meds next week and show up in Joplin on the 27'th.
I AM READY TO GET THIS DONE
Monday, October 12, 2009
We all knew this would happen
Should you ever decide to have the MGB surgery... be sure to check in with your doctor regularly to make sure they write up and mail out your Physical History and his Support letter. I UPS'ed our packets today and called to make sure they could expect them. I talked to Robin and she said that she only had my blood work and still needed to get the stuff from my doctoer.
He said he'd have it out to them by now.
Nice.
He said he'd have it out to them by now.
Nice.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Come together, right now
SO Mom and I (mostly me) spent the day getting the final touches of our "WHY WE WANT MGB SURGERY" packet together.
I mostly spent the day typing up 10 paragraphs (read sentences) about all the different people I'd talked to about the surgery. I also typed up dad's support letter and added a few more sentences to my Patient letter (thanks for the proof-read Shawn!). We got our "before" pictures taken (see previous post) and set up reservations for our hotel (Residence Inn). Mom wanted to get two rooms but that would have cost over $120 a night for a week... I'm sorry but no thank you. We settled for one room with two beds. Dad's not staying with us the entire time, he's decided that he wants to come home for the trick or treaters which is cool.
I'm already making outing plans for after the surgery. I'll be going back to Schaumburg to see some friends graduate. :D I'm hoping to surprise a lot of people when I return.
As I type this I have two biore strip things on my face (one on the nose and one on the chin) so I need to go remove them before they melt off my skin.
I mostly spent the day typing up 10 paragraphs (read sentences) about all the different people I'd talked to about the surgery. I also typed up dad's support letter and added a few more sentences to my Patient letter (thanks for the proof-read Shawn!). We got our "before" pictures taken (see previous post) and set up reservations for our hotel (Residence Inn). Mom wanted to get two rooms but that would have cost over $120 a night for a week... I'm sorry but no thank you. We settled for one room with two beds. Dad's not staying with us the entire time, he's decided that he wants to come home for the trick or treaters which is cool.
I'm already making outing plans for after the surgery. I'll be going back to Schaumburg to see some friends graduate. :D I'm hoping to surprise a lot of people when I return.
As I type this I have two biore strip things on my face (one on the nose and one on the chin) so I need to go remove them before they melt off my skin.
Saturday, October 10, 2009
My letter
I'm not sure if anyone cares to read this or not, but it's my letter to the doctor. We basically needed to tell him why we think we got the way we are and show him that we've done our research, we know the risks, and that we take the surgery seriously. It was a little harder to write than I thought.
Now for my ten paragraphs.
My name is Elizabeth Hoadley. I'm a part-time rehab technician at the Independence Manor Care Facility, a full-time" wanna-be Artist." I am also 22/23 years old and I've been overweight for as long as I can remember. I've lived a relatively sedentary lifestyle and I was never really into sports. I also didn't have the healthiest of eating habits, growing up. My older brother was in and out of the hospital a lot and there's only so much running around one can do in the ER. A lot of meals either came from the hospital cafeteria, a quick trip through the nearest drive-through, or easy to fix frozen meals.
I've tried many different weight loss options over the years, my mother was really into weight watchers for awhile (which helped everyone for a period of time), I've visited a dietrician, I've gone to a "Fat Boot Camp," and even invested in the metabolife pills. But my most successful weight loss attempt was when I was off to college, I joined a local Curves and would swing by "the gym" on my way home from my classes. Through Curves I managed to go from 236 to 205 and was doing great until I graduated in September of '08. That was a depressing fall and a hard winter of not being able to find a job in the field I had gone to school for. I worked overnight at a Target restocking clothing and chugging down caffeine filled sodas to just make it through my shift, when I'd get home I would be too tired to make anything so I often had food delivered or I'd pick something up on the way home. When Chicago became too expensive I returned to KC and moved into my parent's basement. I was back in the environment where I learned most of my bad eating habits, it was just a few short months before I was back to 236 and growing, and I adopted the grim philosophy of "It doesn't matter anymore, no matter how hard I work the weight will just keep on coming back." I saw my inability to get an art job, my weight gain, my move back to KC, and my continued bad luck in the art field as failures. The straw that broke the camel's back was when I went clothes shopping for a friend's wedding and nothing in the store fit.
It was during this fit of hopelessness that my mother suggested I look into a weight loss surgery. I was not very keen of the idea at first, for the longest time I saw it as the "easy way out" but I figured it was worth looking into. The first thing I found was a video web journal by a lady named Taunia (http://www.youtube.com/user/divataunia). She'd had the RNY surgery March '08 and discussed, in depth, what to do to prepare yourself pre-op. Everything from what doctors and insurance companies would require to the various different tests I should anticipate on taking. Her journals also cover the more personal things of what to expect during the first year after the surgery. I realize that I will need to relearn how to eat and that if I'm not careful with how I eat or what I eat I can expect pain and discomfort. She also explained that in the weight loss experience one will hit plateaus, or that even after the surgery my weight will fluctuate. From her I learned that it isn't an easy fix.
I have also spoken with Alicia B at work, she had the MGB surgery a little under a year ago and was more than happy to educate me on the ways of MGB and life after it. She especially focused on that after the procedure I will be able to live a normal functioning life and that I shall not spend the rest of eternity on a diet of broth and mashed potatoes but even so I there will be foods that just won't agree with me. She also told me about hair loss and even showed me that after awhile it will grow back. Her best advice was to take a few bites, wait a few minutes and see how I feel.
Those two ladies have been a fountain of advice and encouragement for the procedure to come, but my strongest source of support has come from my mother, who has decided to have the surgery with me. Her words rang something along the lines of "Misery loves company." In all honesty, I'm very impressed with her for deciding to join me. While all I shall be giving up is 22 years of bad eating habits, she must not only give her's up, but she also decided to go the long haul and gave up smoking as well. Together we've been comparing notes and concerns.
I've skimmed through various websites to read up on the vitamin cocktail I shall be taking for the rest of my life. I've started stocking up on citracil, multivitamins, broth, and gatorade.
I selected the MGB over the RNY mainly for the recovery time. Both procedures have high success rates and both are fairly similar as far as the actual procedure goes, but my research shows that the MGB has a shorter recovery time and seems to be an simpler procedure.
I also realize that the surgery itself contains risks. I know this is a bit mellow dramatic, but I do realize that I could die. In these kinds of surgeries a whole slew of things could go wrong both during and after the procedure, the one that worries me the most is blood clots. I also realize that I could be one of those poor unfortunate souls who has to have the procedure reversed for one reason or another. I have come to terms with all of these matters and I still believe that having the MGB is the best thing I could do for myself.
The surgery is not a magic fix all, I will be giving up a lot of things I used to enjoy, but as I've heard many times: "Nothing tastes better than skinny feels," and I cannot help but feel that this procedure is the tool needed to help me successfully master my weight.
Thank you.
Now for my ten paragraphs.
My name is Elizabeth Hoadley. I'm a part-time rehab technician at the Independence Manor Care Facility, a full-time" wanna-be Artist." I am also 22/23 years old and I've been overweight for as long as I can remember. I've lived a relatively sedentary lifestyle and I was never really into sports. I also didn't have the healthiest of eating habits, growing up. My older brother was in and out of the hospital a lot and there's only so much running around one can do in the ER. A lot of meals either came from the hospital cafeteria, a quick trip through the nearest drive-through, or easy to fix frozen meals.
I've tried many different weight loss options over the years, my mother was really into weight watchers for awhile (which helped everyone for a period of time), I've visited a dietrician, I've gone to a "Fat Boot Camp," and even invested in the metabolife pills. But my most successful weight loss attempt was when I was off to college, I joined a local Curves and would swing by "the gym" on my way home from my classes. Through Curves I managed to go from 236 to 205 and was doing great until I graduated in September of '08. That was a depressing fall and a hard winter of not being able to find a job in the field I had gone to school for. I worked overnight at a Target restocking clothing and chugging down caffeine filled sodas to just make it through my shift, when I'd get home I would be too tired to make anything so I often had food delivered or I'd pick something up on the way home. When Chicago became too expensive I returned to KC and moved into my parent's basement. I was back in the environment where I learned most of my bad eating habits, it was just a few short months before I was back to 236 and growing, and I adopted the grim philosophy of "It doesn't matter anymore, no matter how hard I work the weight will just keep on coming back." I saw my inability to get an art job, my weight gain, my move back to KC, and my continued bad luck in the art field as failures. The straw that broke the camel's back was when I went clothes shopping for a friend's wedding and nothing in the store fit.
It was during this fit of hopelessness that my mother suggested I look into a weight loss surgery. I was not very keen of the idea at first, for the longest time I saw it as the "easy way out" but I figured it was worth looking into. The first thing I found was a video web journal by a lady named Taunia (http://www.youtube.com/user/divataunia). She'd had the RNY surgery March '08 and discussed, in depth, what to do to prepare yourself pre-op. Everything from what doctors and insurance companies would require to the various different tests I should anticipate on taking. Her journals also cover the more personal things of what to expect during the first year after the surgery. I realize that I will need to relearn how to eat and that if I'm not careful with how I eat or what I eat I can expect pain and discomfort. She also explained that in the weight loss experience one will hit plateaus, or that even after the surgery my weight will fluctuate. From her I learned that it isn't an easy fix.
I have also spoken with Alicia B at work, she had the MGB surgery a little under a year ago and was more than happy to educate me on the ways of MGB and life after it. She especially focused on that after the procedure I will be able to live a normal functioning life and that I shall not spend the rest of eternity on a diet of broth and mashed potatoes but even so I there will be foods that just won't agree with me. She also told me about hair loss and even showed me that after awhile it will grow back. Her best advice was to take a few bites, wait a few minutes and see how I feel.
Those two ladies have been a fountain of advice and encouragement for the procedure to come, but my strongest source of support has come from my mother, who has decided to have the surgery with me. Her words rang something along the lines of "Misery loves company." In all honesty, I'm very impressed with her for deciding to join me. While all I shall be giving up is 22 years of bad eating habits, she must not only give her's up, but she also decided to go the long haul and gave up smoking as well. Together we've been comparing notes and concerns.
I've skimmed through various websites to read up on the vitamin cocktail I shall be taking for the rest of my life. I've started stocking up on citracil, multivitamins, broth, and gatorade.
I selected the MGB over the RNY mainly for the recovery time. Both procedures have high success rates and both are fairly similar as far as the actual procedure goes, but my research shows that the MGB has a shorter recovery time and seems to be an simpler procedure.
I also realize that the surgery itself contains risks. I know this is a bit mellow dramatic, but I do realize that I could die. In these kinds of surgeries a whole slew of things could go wrong both during and after the procedure, the one that worries me the most is blood clots. I also realize that I could be one of those poor unfortunate souls who has to have the procedure reversed for one reason or another. I have come to terms with all of these matters and I still believe that having the MGB is the best thing I could do for myself.
The surgery is not a magic fix all, I will be giving up a lot of things I used to enjoy, but as I've heard many times: "Nothing tastes better than skinny feels," and I cannot help but feel that this procedure is the tool needed to help me successfully master my weight.
Thank you.
Monday, October 5, 2009
E-Cigs
So as I'm sure I've mentioned my mother is joining me on the great MGB Adventure. She wasn't sure if she'd be a candidate, since she's a smoker and all. Dr. H said that he would prefer she stop smoking, but that he would still do the procedure on her anyway.
Well, mom decided to quit smoking. At first she cut out all the cigarettes she didn't really need (the ones she'd smoke when bored of when she needed something to do with her hands) then she slowly cut back from there. She's gone from a full pack to a little under half a pack in a matter of a few weeks, where as all her previous attempts had failed.
Mom has been floating around half a pack a day when she hit her plateau, the doctor prescribed her the Chantax (she's had it before and it failed), but what has really helped her out is the new E-Cigarette. It has a little bit of nicotine without any of the other chemicals and helps dull the edge of her craving. The one she purchased comes with 4 strengths of nicotine and as she progresses she's supposed to lessen the strength.
So far it's worked well for her. The best part, however, is the fact that it comes in flavoured filters. She can get chocolate, cherry, mint, or tobaccoo. I joked around that after the surgery that will be how mom gets her chocolate fix, she'll smoke it.
Well, mom decided to quit smoking. At first she cut out all the cigarettes she didn't really need (the ones she'd smoke when bored of when she needed something to do with her hands) then she slowly cut back from there. She's gone from a full pack to a little under half a pack in a matter of a few weeks, where as all her previous attempts had failed.
Mom has been floating around half a pack a day when she hit her plateau, the doctor prescribed her the Chantax (she's had it before and it failed), but what has really helped her out is the new E-Cigarette. It has a little bit of nicotine without any of the other chemicals and helps dull the edge of her craving. The one she purchased comes with 4 strengths of nicotine and as she progresses she's supposed to lessen the strength.
So far it's worked well for her. The best part, however, is the fact that it comes in flavoured filters. She can get chocolate, cherry, mint, or tobaccoo. I joked around that after the surgery that will be how mom gets her chocolate fix, she'll smoke it.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Knew I should have shaved
I FINALLY got my physical done and over with.
Basically told the doctor I had a MGB surgery set up, and my surgeon needed a letter saying he would do my follow up check ups and just make sure that I'm doing alright.
He said he's write the letter after he got my lab work done. We go next week to geet that done.
Basically told the doctor I had a MGB surgery set up, and my surgeon needed a letter saying he would do my follow up check ups and just make sure that I'm doing alright.
He said he's write the letter after he got my lab work done. We go next week to geet that done.
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Silly work story
I'll try not to talk about work too often, since that's A) not very professional and B) not what you're here to read about.
But this was just too cute not to share:
We had someone go to the hospital yesterday (she's had a bad rash for WEEKS), and they were trying to lighten the lady's mood (she's a mean one if she doesn't like you). She snapped at them not to drop her, and the lady EMT responded with "We only drop people on Firday." She was not amused, "IT IS FRIDAY!" The poor EMT gave her a huge smile "Then you're lucky!" Shirley whined that she's been very unlucky. So mom went over and stage whispered into Shirley's ear "Oh I dunno Shirley, this fella is pretty cute!" And Shirley was quiet as they got her out of her room and halfway down the hallway, that's when I heard her say "He is!"
Oh the characters I work with.
Not much else to say about the surgery, mom and I got all 10 contacts yesterday (something she's very relieved about) so now we have to write a paragraph for each contact.
But this was just too cute not to share:
We had someone go to the hospital yesterday (she's had a bad rash for WEEKS), and they were trying to lighten the lady's mood (she's a mean one if she doesn't like you). She snapped at them not to drop her, and the lady EMT responded with "We only drop people on Firday." She was not amused, "IT IS FRIDAY!" The poor EMT gave her a huge smile "Then you're lucky!" Shirley whined that she's been very unlucky. So mom went over and stage whispered into Shirley's ear "Oh I dunno Shirley, this fella is pretty cute!" And Shirley was quiet as they got her out of her room and halfway down the hallway, that's when I heard her say "He is!"
Oh the characters I work with.
Not much else to say about the surgery, mom and I got all 10 contacts yesterday (something she's very relieved about) so now we have to write a paragraph for each contact.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
No steps forward and one week wait
So I was scheduled for that physical.
I was going to have it yesterday.
I drove out to the doctors, signed waited in the waiting room, filled out the paper work, waited some more, made a bad N1H1 joke, waited some more, reassured the people around me I didn't have N1H1, waited some more, and was finally got called up by a nurse.
She pulled me into the first room on the left. Put my chart on a table and said:
"We don't have people see doctors who are not their primary physicians."
"I have a primary physician?"
"Yes, it says on your chart Dr. Enriquez is your primary physician."
"Oh... I haven't had a physical in like 7 years, I didn't remember."
"It says you had one in 2005.."
"Really? Seemed like it was longer."
"I know what you mean. Dr. Enriquez is going away to a convention tomorrow, so you'll have to come back next friday."
"..I can't see Dr. Louis?"
"No, he isn't your primary physician."
"I saw in in June though, for my ear..."
"I know. You'll have to come back friday, that's the soonest Dr. Enriquez can see you."
"Oh. I'm just worried about time. I have a surgery scheduled and I need this done two weeks before the surgery."
"It'll get done in time, don't worry"
Then she rambled about dictating and weeks and days and 24 hour shipping.
"And don't worry, we won't bill you for today."
"....thank you?"
So I go out to the front desk with the nurse, she hands the appointment lady a paper saying that I won't be charged for waiting in their waiting room and she says to schedule me for Dr. Enriquez at the first opportunity. So the lady jotted me down for the 29'th of Sept.
Which is next tuesday.
What happened to friday?
...yeah I dunno. So I waited for mom to finish with her physical, she's got to go back anyway. I told her what was going on and she brought up a valid point.
"It took them this long to realize Dr. Louis isn't your primary care physician?"
We scheduled these bad boys quite some time ago, and I DID wait in the waiting room for a long ass time.. why did it take two seconds before my physical to realize that I was seeing the wrong guy?
SO YEAH.
I get to go back to get my physical, and then I get to go with mom to some other facility for the blood work.
We're also scrambling to get 10 contacts. I think we're almost there.
We also need to get dad's support letters.
I need to write MY letter.
And do the dreaded "before" pictures.
I think I shall post them.
Maybe.
...in a year.
I was going to have it yesterday.
I drove out to the doctors, signed waited in the waiting room, filled out the paper work, waited some more, made a bad N1H1 joke, waited some more, reassured the people around me I didn't have N1H1, waited some more, and was finally got called up by a nurse.
She pulled me into the first room on the left. Put my chart on a table and said:
"We don't have people see doctors who are not their primary physicians."
"I have a primary physician?"
"Yes, it says on your chart Dr. Enriquez is your primary physician."
"Oh... I haven't had a physical in like 7 years, I didn't remember."
"It says you had one in 2005.."
"Really? Seemed like it was longer."
"I know what you mean. Dr. Enriquez is going away to a convention tomorrow, so you'll have to come back next friday."
"..I can't see Dr. Louis?"
"No, he isn't your primary physician."
"I saw in in June though, for my ear..."
"I know. You'll have to come back friday, that's the soonest Dr. Enriquez can see you."
"Oh. I'm just worried about time. I have a surgery scheduled and I need this done two weeks before the surgery."
"It'll get done in time, don't worry"
Then she rambled about dictating and weeks and days and 24 hour shipping.
"And don't worry, we won't bill you for today."
"....thank you?"
So I go out to the front desk with the nurse, she hands the appointment lady a paper saying that I won't be charged for waiting in their waiting room and she says to schedule me for Dr. Enriquez at the first opportunity. So the lady jotted me down for the 29'th of Sept.
Which is next tuesday.
What happened to friday?
...yeah I dunno. So I waited for mom to finish with her physical, she's got to go back anyway. I told her what was going on and she brought up a valid point.
"It took them this long to realize Dr. Louis isn't your primary care physician?"
We scheduled these bad boys quite some time ago, and I DID wait in the waiting room for a long ass time.. why did it take two seconds before my physical to realize that I was seeing the wrong guy?
SO YEAH.
I get to go back to get my physical, and then I get to go with mom to some other facility for the blood work.
We're also scrambling to get 10 contacts. I think we're almost there.
We also need to get dad's support letters.
I need to write MY letter.
And do the dreaded "before" pictures.
I think I shall post them.
Maybe.
...in a year.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Eat it while you can
Last Friday while therapy was out in the hallway working with a small group of our "Morning People" the topic of "last meals" came up. What will our last meal before the surgery be? Are we going to eat high dollar foods? Super greasy chow? Good old fashioned comfort food? Fry our brains out with sugar? Or will we take it easy and go with a light meal?
I've had quite a few people who have done the MGB come up and tell me to pick out all my favourite restaurants and go there before the surgery. Mom and I have started a small list of places we need to go before we can no longer pig out like we used to.
At the top is Culvers followed by the Corner Cafe and BD's (love me some Mongolian BBQ).
Ever since I've adopted the mindset of "Eat it while I can" I've noticed my jeans feel smaller than usual.
----
Alright, so this is a BIG EDIT. I had started this post at work but had to skimp off to go do my job and the post remained unfisnished for the weekend.
Saturday we did the Support Group meeting. Met four lovely ladies who'd had the surgery anywhere from 3 months to 6 years ago. It was fascinating to see how each one ate after the various time gaps. It was also encouraging to see that even though the surgery will change the way I eat, I'll still be able to go out to restaurants and eat socially.
We discussed things like how to eat (chew chew chew, don't follow a bite with water if you're feeling a little choked or full-just wait it out), what to keep on hand (small salt packets are handy and bottles of gatorade are good to keep around should you ever feel nauseous), what to do in restaurants (it's ok to let them take good away, or to even take in your own beverages), and I finally got some answers to my questions about alochol.
Because I'm blocking off 90% of my stomach more alochol will be hitting my liver. It is important to avoid alochol for AT LEAST a year or two before taking cautious sips. Alochol will have a stronger effect that lasts longer too, hence why it is easy for people who have had the procedure to become alocholic. I asked what would they suggest I do should I ever be in a situation where I am pressured to drink. They suggested to talk to the bartender and ask him to pretend like he's mixing me a drink when in reality all he's doing is shaking juice around or to make sure at least one person knows I've had the surgery and swap out for their empties.
Apparently after the surgery you're nothing but a gas house... and that my gas will smell even worse than usual.
...
maybe I don't want to split a room with mom after all.
I've had quite a few people who have done the MGB come up and tell me to pick out all my favourite restaurants and go there before the surgery. Mom and I have started a small list of places we need to go before we can no longer pig out like we used to.
At the top is Culvers followed by the Corner Cafe and BD's (love me some Mongolian BBQ).
Ever since I've adopted the mindset of "Eat it while I can" I've noticed my jeans feel smaller than usual.
----
Alright, so this is a BIG EDIT. I had started this post at work but had to skimp off to go do my job and the post remained unfisnished for the weekend.
Saturday we did the Support Group meeting. Met four lovely ladies who'd had the surgery anywhere from 3 months to 6 years ago. It was fascinating to see how each one ate after the various time gaps. It was also encouraging to see that even though the surgery will change the way I eat, I'll still be able to go out to restaurants and eat socially.
We discussed things like how to eat (chew chew chew, don't follow a bite with water if you're feeling a little choked or full-just wait it out), what to keep on hand (small salt packets are handy and bottles of gatorade are good to keep around should you ever feel nauseous), what to do in restaurants (it's ok to let them take good away, or to even take in your own beverages), and I finally got some answers to my questions about alochol.
Because I'm blocking off 90% of my stomach more alochol will be hitting my liver. It is important to avoid alochol for AT LEAST a year or two before taking cautious sips. Alochol will have a stronger effect that lasts longer too, hence why it is easy for people who have had the procedure to become alocholic. I asked what would they suggest I do should I ever be in a situation where I am pressured to drink. They suggested to talk to the bartender and ask him to pretend like he's mixing me a drink when in reality all he's doing is shaking juice around or to make sure at least one person knows I've had the surgery and swap out for their empties.
Apparently after the surgery you're nothing but a gas house... and that my gas will smell even worse than usual.
...
maybe I don't want to split a room with mom after all.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
And how does that make you feel
Did the psych evaluation today.
Apparently I'm not crazy. In fact, quite opposite. I seem to be a mentally healthy individual.
Sucka.
But no, seriously, she was a nice lady. She was kind enough to squeeze mom and me in with just a few days notice, and was also cool enough to call me to let me know she was having car issues and would be late. Most docs would have just let us sit in the waiting room.
She showed us a before/after picture of herself with the surgery, and I gotta say it's impressive.
But yeah, I think she was pleased with my take on the whole thing. The surgery is a tool, not a get out of jail free card.
However, there was one thing she said that has stuck with me.
As I change and lose weight, my relationships with people will change too. Some people will be become jealous and lash out, others will be more accepting and willing to include you in things, and you'll never really feel like you fit in with either the "fat" or "skinny" category.
The idea of not being part of the "Fat Chick Club" is hard for me to digest.
Note to self: Invest in tums.
Apparently I'm not crazy. In fact, quite opposite. I seem to be a mentally healthy individual.
Sucka.
But no, seriously, she was a nice lady. She was kind enough to squeeze mom and me in with just a few days notice, and was also cool enough to call me to let me know she was having car issues and would be late. Most docs would have just let us sit in the waiting room.
She showed us a before/after picture of herself with the surgery, and I gotta say it's impressive.
But yeah, I think she was pleased with my take on the whole thing. The surgery is a tool, not a get out of jail free card.
However, there was one thing she said that has stuck with me.
As I change and lose weight, my relationships with people will change too. Some people will be become jealous and lash out, others will be more accepting and willing to include you in things, and you'll never really feel like you fit in with either the "fat" or "skinny" category.
The idea of not being part of the "Fat Chick Club" is hard for me to digest.
Note to self: Invest in tums.
Monday, September 14, 2009
ELECTROLYTES! IT'S WHAT PLANTS CRAVE
Just got off the phone with Carla a little bit ago.
I asked her about water and how much of it I'll be drinking.
I like water, it is my preferred liquid. I carry around a 64 oz water bottle and try my damnedest to finish it off. Hydration is important, especially for people losing weight or those who had recently had surgery. Her answer surprised me.
"You won't be drinking water for awhile after the surgery, you'll be replacing it with gatorade. You see after the surgery the electrolytes from the gatorade will be especially important."
Wow.
Been bad, no jogging last few days.
aand up to 238, more than before curves. :/
I asked her about water and how much of it I'll be drinking.
I like water, it is my preferred liquid. I carry around a 64 oz water bottle and try my damnedest to finish it off. Hydration is important, especially for people losing weight or those who had recently had surgery. Her answer surprised me.
"You won't be drinking water for awhile after the surgery, you'll be replacing it with gatorade. You see after the surgery the electrolytes from the gatorade will be especially important."
Wow.
Been bad, no jogging last few days.
aand up to 238, more than before curves. :/
Saturday, September 12, 2009
All aboard the fail boat
So I didn't manage to do the treadmill last night. One of our little residents had knee surgery last tuesday so mom and I drove out to Blue Springs to visit. We stopped at Culvers on the way and I had a chicken sandwich... heedless to say after all the grease running didn't sound like a good idea.
So mom was asking how some of my friends were doing, and I told her I hadn't heard from any of them in awhile, and she quipped back with "Have *you* caaaaalled them?" which irked me for some reason, and I snapped back with "*No* I haven't caaaaalled them."
I don't know, I just don't like going out and actually being around people right now.
I'm not going to blame that on my weight, because my dad's a bit of a home-body too so maybe I get that from him... but at the same time when I get dressed in the morning and have to add more clothes to the "Does Not Fit" pile.. I can't help but think that maybe my size *does* have something to do with my lack of desire to keep in contact with people.
I don't want them to see how badly I've failed? How greatly I've slipped? How much I let myself go?
PITY PARTY AT MY HOUSE BRING CHOCOLATE!
So mom was asking how some of my friends were doing, and I told her I hadn't heard from any of them in awhile, and she quipped back with "Have *you* caaaaalled them?" which irked me for some reason, and I snapped back with "*No* I haven't caaaaalled them."
I don't know, I just don't like going out and actually being around people right now.
I'm not going to blame that on my weight, because my dad's a bit of a home-body too so maybe I get that from him... but at the same time when I get dressed in the morning and have to add more clothes to the "Does Not Fit" pile.. I can't help but think that maybe my size *does* have something to do with my lack of desire to keep in contact with people.
I don't want them to see how badly I've failed? How greatly I've slipped? How much I let myself go?
PITY PARTY AT MY HOUSE BRING CHOCOLATE!
Friday, September 11, 2009
Another at work post
We're on lunch break right now, and what with things being slower than usual the past few weeks I was able to sneak onto the computer to make a little post.
So last night I did the treadmill for another 30 mins for 172 calories, which was exciting. I was still heaving but not as badly as the day before and the break I had to take wasn't as long either. I also figured out why it's so much harder this time around, the program I've been jogging has an incline! Where as previously I'd always run without an incline. I feel a little more empowered now.
Mom and I are anticipating on doing the surgery on October 28'th. That's a few days after my birthday, so I'll be able to have cake
So last night I did the treadmill for another 30 mins for 172 calories, which was exciting. I was still heaving but not as badly as the day before and the break I had to take wasn't as long either. I also figured out why it's so much harder this time around, the program I've been jogging has an incline! Where as previously I'd always run without an incline. I feel a little more empowered now.
Mom and I are anticipating on doing the surgery on October 28'th. That's a few days after my birthday, so I'll be able to have cake
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
PSYCH- I know you know that I'm not telling the truth
My cat is laying on my wrists as I type this so please ignore my typos.
So I scheduled the psych evaluation for this upcoming Tuesday the 15'th at 2:30 pm.
I forgot that the doctors physical and the psych eval were going to cost money too. Duh, Beth.
Her fee is $250, and I don't know about the physical.
After that we need to get the contact information for 10 other people who have had the MGB procedure, write a letter, get dad to write some letters, take some pictures, and mail it all together in a packet.
I also gained over five pounds this past week, it's getting harder to breathe, even when sitting. :/
---
I stepped away from the computer for a bit, I randomly decided that 10:30 was a good time to go on the treadmill.
I am ashamed and alarmed at how sweaty I am and how hard it is to breathe right now. I mean I used to do the exact same jogging system without a stitch just a few weeks ago, and now my chest feel compressed and I can't breathe.
They suggest you start up an exercise routine before surgery, and I think I'll do 30 mins on the treadmill for my routine. I'll let ya'll know how it goes.
Today was 30 mins and 166 cals on a range of 2-4 mph.
with a short pee break after the 4mph 'cause all that heaving made me really have to go.
I probably should have jogged earlier, but hopefully after my nice warm shower I'll be ready to crash.
So I scheduled the psych evaluation for this upcoming Tuesday the 15'th at 2:30 pm.
I forgot that the doctors physical and the psych eval were going to cost money too. Duh, Beth.
Her fee is $250, and I don't know about the physical.
After that we need to get the contact information for 10 other people who have had the MGB procedure, write a letter, get dad to write some letters, take some pictures, and mail it all together in a packet.
I also gained over five pounds this past week, it's getting harder to breathe, even when sitting. :/
---
I stepped away from the computer for a bit, I randomly decided that 10:30 was a good time to go on the treadmill.
I am ashamed and alarmed at how sweaty I am and how hard it is to breathe right now. I mean I used to do the exact same jogging system without a stitch just a few weeks ago, and now my chest feel compressed and I can't breathe.
They suggest you start up an exercise routine before surgery, and I think I'll do 30 mins on the treadmill for my routine. I'll let ya'll know how it goes.
Today was 30 mins and 166 cals on a range of 2-4 mph.
with a short pee break after the 4mph 'cause all that heaving made me really have to go.
I probably should have jogged earlier, but hopefully after my nice warm shower I'll be ready to crash.
Friday, September 4, 2009
P&P Eval
So I just got off the phone with the doctors office.
Mom and I go in for our physicals on September 23'rd.
I didn't really get a chance to list all the steps we have to go through before we can have the surgery, so I suppose this is a good time to cover that.
First off, you need to do your research. I've checked out various personal blogs, some websites, a webinar, and I've drilled some people about the procedure. Once you're certain that this is the procedure for you, you need to contact a MGB surgeon.
Dr. Hargroder (http://mgb-surgery.net/) was suggested to me by a coworker.
After requesting information about the procedure and such I recieved a phonecall from the wonderful Carla. She also sent me an email with a handbook and a calendar with a list of online seminars or various support group meetings. I got into one of the "webinars" and actually had the opportunity to talk to Dr. H himself. He did a slideshow presentation about the procedure, who he is, why he does what he does, some comparisons of the different procedures, and finally what to expect. He answered all our questions ("What if I smoke?" "What will my diet be after the surgery?" "How much weight can one expect to lose in the first few months?") and encouraged us to call at any time.
After you are 100% certain that this is for you, call the fabulous Carla and decide on a date.
This is where mom and I are having some issues.
She didn't think I'd get physicals planned in time.
But anyway, after the physicals you'll need to set up a psych evaluation. They'll provide you with a list of names in your area, because Carla is fantastic like that.
You also need to write a letter covering why you want the procedure and you need to talk with 10 other people who have had the surgery.
This is no easy walk in walk out kind of decision. They take this seriously.
Mom and I go in for our physicals on September 23'rd.
I didn't really get a chance to list all the steps we have to go through before we can have the surgery, so I suppose this is a good time to cover that.
First off, you need to do your research. I've checked out various personal blogs, some websites, a webinar, and I've drilled some people about the procedure. Once you're certain that this is the procedure for you, you need to contact a MGB surgeon.
Dr. Hargroder (http://mgb-surgery.net/) was suggested to me by a coworker.
After requesting information about the procedure and such I recieved a phonecall from the wonderful Carla. She also sent me an email with a handbook and a calendar with a list of online seminars or various support group meetings. I got into one of the "webinars" and actually had the opportunity to talk to Dr. H himself. He did a slideshow presentation about the procedure, who he is, why he does what he does, some comparisons of the different procedures, and finally what to expect. He answered all our questions ("What if I smoke?" "What will my diet be after the surgery?" "How much weight can one expect to lose in the first few months?") and encouraged us to call at any time.
After you are 100% certain that this is for you, call the fabulous Carla and decide on a date.
This is where mom and I are having some issues.
She didn't think I'd get physicals planned in time.
But anyway, after the physicals you'll need to set up a psych evaluation. They'll provide you with a list of names in your area, because Carla is fantastic like that.
You also need to write a letter covering why you want the procedure and you need to talk with 10 other people who have had the surgery.
This is no easy walk in walk out kind of decision. They take this seriously.
A function for this journal
So I've finally found a function for this blog.
I'm going to have a Mini Gastric Bypass (MGB) surgery sometime this year (a date hasn't been decided on just yet, I'm hoping as early as October, but in all reality it probably won't be until December at the earliest).
If you don't know, a MGB is a form of Weight Loss Surgery (WLS).
The surgeon creates five 1in. incisions on your tummy and cuts around the lesser curve of your stomach, where the organ is the least elastic, and staples it closed. This is your new stomach.
The surgeon then travels six feet down your small intestines and finds a good spot to attach them to your new stomach pouch. This basically blocks off the part of your intestines that absorb and store most of the calories that build up into fat storage.
The entire procedure takes about 1 hour and I will be in the hospital for 24 hours for observation. Afterwards I can go back to work (because I do a job where I'm not physically lifting heavy things a lot).
That's all for now, I'm going to be late for work if I keep typing.
I'm going to have a Mini Gastric Bypass (MGB) surgery sometime this year (a date hasn't been decided on just yet, I'm hoping as early as October, but in all reality it probably won't be until December at the earliest).
If you don't know, a MGB is a form of Weight Loss Surgery (WLS).
The surgeon creates five 1in. incisions on your tummy and cuts around the lesser curve of your stomach, where the organ is the least elastic, and staples it closed. This is your new stomach.
The surgeon then travels six feet down your small intestines and finds a good spot to attach them to your new stomach pouch. This basically blocks off the part of your intestines that absorb and store most of the calories that build up into fat storage.
The entire procedure takes about 1 hour and I will be in the hospital for 24 hours for observation. Afterwards I can go back to work (because I do a job where I'm not physically lifting heavy things a lot).
That's all for now, I'm going to be late for work if I keep typing.
Friday, July 17, 2009
New Job
So I have a job as a OT Tech at the Independence Manor nursing home. I basically do everything from insert the amount of time each resident was seen to actually help out with therapy exercises. So far so good, they only need me for 3 days out of the week though.
Job is job, and job is good.
Job is job, and job is good.
Monday, June 22, 2009
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