MINI-Me

Too fun! Glad you guys had a good time. We are going to a costume party next Saturday night. Shirt skirt and fishnet stocking are in my future. Hard to believe I'm willing to go out in public like that, let alone looking forward to it!

Clive - sounds like you are doing the right things. Talking with various surgeons and looking at the best options for YOU. You are right, we are pro-sleeve here because it worked so well for us. But, you have to do what is right for YOU. Best of luck with your research and consultations. If we can be of any further assistance, please do not hestitate to ask. Best wishes, Mini

I think many of us forget that 1% chance of a leak and just how difficult the road back is when you have one. I have 4 friends with the sleeve. 4 of us are fine, but 1 had a leak. She has had 3 surgeries in the last 3 weeks and at one point was fighting for her life. Makes me feel a little guilty that I've done so well. But, it also makes me grateful for my health and how this surgery has given me back my life. I wish you the best of health and a quick recovery. Keep us updated on your progress.

It really all depends on the specifics of your policy. And, it's a stretch to say that all company insurance covers it. I work for a rather large company - the largest in my county - and they say no way jose. In shopping for your policy, make sure you understand what is and isn't covered.

No, you are not crazy. Many of us go through exactly what you are describing. You are getting ready to change your relationship with food and your body FOREVER! Why wouldn't you be evaulating your decision??? I think it's very healthy and natural. Just trust your research, your surgeon, and yourself. You will make the right choice!

Wow! I really don't know what to say to that. I know I only have 9 months of experience with the sleeve, but I can't believe that I have less chance of keeping off the weight longer than a bypass patient. I don't know your surgeon or his/her experience, but I suggest maybe getting a second opinion. Revision is a major decision and having several expert opinions is definitely worth the time/effort.

I definitely relate to the emotions. While I am still within a healthy weight with more loss, I really am at a good spot now. I could stop and be pleased with myself. I too don't know how to relate to maintenance. What is normal? What should I set as a bounce point before I need to go back into diet mode? How do I live life without dieting or watching the scale like a hawk? Any "maintainers" out there have any advice?

OK ... now I am blushing. Thank you.

Thank you ... That Trace Atkins song, "One Hot Moma" has become our theme song around here. My husband is so great - he can't keep his hands off of me these days. AND, I'm not complaining!

I've always been a bit of a pear shape ... so my stubborn fat is in the hips and lower abdomen. I keep telling myself that after babies and being in my 40's I look HOT, but I still want that fat gone.

What an awesome story. I am so happy for you. I remember hitting "normal" and it definitely felt surreal. CONGRATULATIONS!

Did he/she say why they recommended g-bypass instead of the sleeve?

I have always had thick hair. My friends with thinner hair love it, but that's because it doesn't take them an hour to dry and straighten it! I have lost quite a bit, but thankfully no balding spots yet. It seems to be slowing down now (started around 4 months). Thanks everyone!

Thanks! Stalls are the worst. I know it's not easy hearing "everybody goes through it" ... but it really does pass. Just keep doing the same things you were doing before the stall. Also - check those body measurements. Those changes help get you through those blasted stalls!

That is GREAT news!

I would say do what works for you. We are all different. Your nut has guidelines for the "majority" but if it works for you, I say go for it. We are talking about 200 calories here. 600 sounds very low & within those guidelines, hard to get proper nutrition. I would also go after that MIA surgeon - he/she should be available even after the check has cleared the bank.

AWESOME ... GREAT JOB!

Like the others have said ... it REALLY does get better. PROMISE!!!!!

Dear Santa, I know you are really busy in December 24th (Christmas Eve) ... Think you could put off your Carribean vacation just a few days and schedule HopeandFaith for surgery on the 26th? Thanks, Mini

It really depends on your doctor/nuts meal plan for you. At 6-8 weeks out, I could eat a lot of items. Some people are just off liquids and on mushies by then. The good news is that cruises have so many food options. Plus, if you eat in the main dining room, they are more than happy to help with dietary requirements. For the buffets, you can always find some Soups and "mushy" food. You may want to bring along some Protein powders. How exciting ... a new you and a cruise. I am totally jealous!!!

I was a "lower" BMI too. Made me laugh that I was considered "little" for an obese person. I am so excited to have finally beaten the fat. I read somewhere that we will always be "obese" - we may go into remission, but our bodies are just made to be obese. That is probably true - especially if you look at my family history. But this little tummy is my secret weapon against obesity. Let's Celebrate remission!!! Best of luck. I look forward to hearing about your journey. It's a wild ride!

I can understand the frustration ... once you make a life changing decision, you want to change your life. It's great that you are on the cancellation list. Until then, use this forum. Post your frustrations, temptations, etc ... we will help you through. Best of luck!

I did not use them personally, but do attend their support group meetings. I have heard excellent things about them & personally know 3 people who used them. My three friends were very pleased with the surgery and after-care. http://pugetsoundsurgicalcenter.com/sleeve-gastrectomy.html

Not a downer at all ... this is a journey & we all have to find what works for us. My nutritionist gave me "guidelines" to follow because everyone is different. I too have stalls and they are SUPER FRUSTRATING! But, feel free to experiment a little and find what works for you. This is not a race to see how fast you can lose. This is a journey to a whole new you. For me, Snacks will always be part of my life. I enjoy them and feel deprived if I don't have them. (And for me, deprivation means a binge.) So, I have found a way to incorporate them in my life. And, it's working for me. BUT, if snacks cause a major problem for you, then it may be better just to leave them out for now. I don't mean this to sound preachy. Believe me, it's been an exciting, emotional, terrific, horrific journey so far ... But, I'm learning to be the new me. YOU CAN TOO!