Today I scheduled my first nutritionist appointment, left a message to set up the psychological consult, and mailed two letters. The first to my Internist, who has already offered her full support, requesting the letter of medical necessity, referral to the nutritionist, and weight records. Since I've only been seeing her since last year, I mailed a second letter to the GYN I was with before my insurance changed a couple of years ago. She would have weight records going back further than any other doctors I've seen. Gratefully, my health has only become complicated with sleep apnea in recent years, but I've seen the GYN every year since I was 15. I've been told the weight record is what is important, so it didn't matter from which doctor the information came. I hope that's true. We have a wellness center at work, and I've gone there for most illness (mostly sinus infections) over the last 10 years, but they don't make us stand on a scale (thank the gods), so alas I don't have three years of data from a consistent source.

My chiropractor is engaged to support my 6 month doctor assisted weight loss program, since I had already started a process with her in January, which resulted in some weight loss followed by losing the same 2 pounds over and over for the next couple of months. It is based on taking in more fruits and vegetables with lean meats, and very limited carbs - such as brown rice and lentils. Since I read that more protein is required for weight loss, I've added Isopure No Carb protein powder to my morning smoothie, and have it in a simple shake around 3pm, when I'm feeling snackish or run-down. I had hoped that would be the magic ticket... I've never been a big protein consumer, and I thought I might just start dropping pounds when I was suddently getting enough... but, no. Not yet, anyway.

The other thing to consider for reaching the surgery goal, is timing. I support four executives. I need to be sure time off doesn't interfere with a board meeting, or other large scale events. Not because they would begrudge me that time, but because I prefer to have enough time to heal a little before I start pressuring myself for abandoning my people. I understand that one week is all that is needed, but some have recommended two... and I have my boss'es blessing to take whatever I need.

Just jotting down my thoughts as I walk this path toward wellness... heel, toe, heel, toe... HEAL.

Wishing you many blessings on your own journey!