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Ever since I can remember, I have been the "fat guy". That is what I was known for. I never took my shirt off at a pool or a beach, ever! That is something I want to change though. So, my best friend who I graduated high school together has always been much slimmer, popular, girls flocked to him; I sure you get the drift. Although we have been friends for over two decades I feel he never took me seriously because of my weight. At parties, clubs, bars, social situations I was always the one who was ignored and not payed attention too. Well, he moved out of state and we see each other about twice a year. He has a very stressful job and as a result has been emotionally eating and gained a significant amount of weight. He is one of the few that know that I had my surgery and he is very supportive. We saw each other for the first time in over a year last week and guess what...drum roll.....I weigh less than him. He even made a comment on how I was flirting with the waitress at the restaurant we met at. It felt like I was in his shoes for once. It felt truly that the tables have turned.

I ate like a normal person yesterday!!! I was at an all-day training where they provided breakfast and lunch. Since I didn't know what they would be serving, I packed my little cooler with a protein bar, yogurt and a fruit cup. I didn't need it, woohoo! One of the breakfast options was a yogurt parfait and at the lunch buffet they had (in addition to a bunch of stuff I couldn't eat) salmon patties, a squash medley, and orzo. They had fruit cups for the afternoon snack! I was so excited to eat what other people ate! I admit, I did eat some sweets, too. But overall, what a good day!

A colleague of mine had gastric sleeve in February because she had bad knees and could not have knee replacements until she lost the weight. She could barely walk at the time. I don't think they will deny you; you can stil do upper body exercise and some physical activity like walking with proper care for your you knee (brace, walker, crutches, etc).

So, I work as nursing staff at a psychiatric hospital and our crew is very tight-knit. We have potlucks in our nurses’ station for every reason. Birthday? Potluck. Back from vacation? Potluck. Trying patient going back to jail? Potluck. It’s a Saturday? Donuts, chips, and other goodies. Today, I came into work and there was a box of donuts from our psychiatrist because he wanted to show his appreciation. Right now, there’s a bag of Doritos and gummy bears right in front of me as I begrudgingly eat my salad. I’ve managed to do pretty well so far and I haven’t given in to temptation, but man, that apple fritter was calling my name. What are your favorite snacks to keep on hand in this type of situation? I have a fridge at work and my own locker. I am just starting my 6 month medically supervised weight loss.

Is it possible that the insurance denies surgery because of a new knee injury? Somehow I injured my knee and I am a little hesitant to go to the orthopedic out of concern surgery could get denied. Maybe the insurance would say I could not excercise enough and so forth. Maybe I am overthinking this, would not be the first time 🤪

I'm in a deep funk. Instead of helping others, I've turned into a wacko rambler. Off-topic, off period. It's time for me to take a break from this place.

Ugh that is tough. I work in the hospital and there is always cake, doughnuts, and candy around. This week someone brought in packages of full size Cinnabon for heavens sakes! I always keep Greek yogurt, cottage cheese...if you can find Muuna it’s yummy...cheese sticks, and such for snacks. Granted I am post op and it is much easier to not stray now. The more you stay away from the sugar though, the less you will crave it!

Where did you have your surgery done?

Well, I did it! Made it home today. I ended up staying a day extra in the hospital because my oxygen was low. But I feel so much better now--I am sore, and sleepy, but I feel so much better being home. I was probably the most chicken person in the world for getting VGS. If I can do it, anyone can!

Every day