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Everything posted by Valentina
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What Change Did You Make that You Never Thought You Could?
Valentina replied to Alex Brecher's topic in General Weight Loss Surgery Discussions
I never thought that I would be able to "get back on track" after 4 years. It was like an overnight decision this past Jan. My whole mindset woke up and----here I am, working with my sleeve , not against it. and--- I have this site and the people who post here to thank for any weight loss success I have. Without their (your) support, I would still be in a dark place alone. Instead, I look forward to each and every day becoming healthier, happier, and motivated to keep on keep'n on! -
Heart Broken--feeling TOO much
Valentina replied to LEILE's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
My friend, dealing with a loved one with mental illness was by far the most difficult period in my life. It's a long story--one that you don't need right now. I have felt what you are feeling. I remember walking and walking and walking. During those walks I kept repeating to myself: "I never knew how strong I was until being strong was my only option" I know it's a cliché', but it saved my train of thoughts from being derailed more than once. I'm on my knees in prayer for you and your son. -
Heart Broken--feeling TOO much
Valentina replied to LEILE's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
My friend, dealing with a loved one with mental illness was by far the most difficult period in my life. It's a long story--one that you don't need right now. I have felt what you are feeling. I remember walking and walking and walking. During those walks I kept repeating to myself: "I never knew how strong I was until being strong was my only option" I know it's a cliché', but it saved my train of thoughts from being derailed more than once. I'm on my knees in prayer for you and your son. My friend, dealing with a loved one with mental illness was by far the most difficult period in my life. It's a long story--one that you don't need right now. I have felt what you are feeling. I remember walking and walking and walking. During those walks I kept repeating to myself: "I never knew how strong I was until being strong was my only option" I know it's a cliché', but it saved my train of thoughts from being derailed more than once. I'm on my knees in prayer for you and your son. -
So saddened to hear about your tough times. Do you have someone that you can talk this out with--a therapist who is "bariatric friendly"? Do you have a good relationship with your NUT? I know I can tell you that we have all "hit the wall" from time to time while on this new journey, but that doesn't help you much.--other than misery like company. I think talking this all out with some one that you completely trust will be extremely helpful to you. Please, my friend, keep posting. We all care to the utmost degree. I promise--it gets better. We all just need a little "boost" physically and mentally now and then. Prayers going up for you.
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OMG... I know I will have to start Puree diet at some point....YUK
Valentina replied to olydott's topic in Post-op Diets and Questions
Just remember, "it's not forever". Find four things that you like and just eat those. Just do it! Oh, I forgot, I wasn't supposed to say that! You can do this. YOU know you can. The rewards are well worth the "trials of pureed" Let us know when you get to that stage and we will "talk you through it". -
Best Protein Bars?
Valentina replied to rydersmama's topic in General Weight Loss Surgery Discussions
Since Quest has once again altered their recipe back, I vote for them. I am satisfied with most of their numbers and enjoy most of the flavors I have them as my lunch after my swimming sessions. -
Anyone hear from Rican829??? There's a spot on the Losers' Bench waiting for him...
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I had a same day sleeve surgery, but was planned before hand. I do not recommend it. You need to rest and take a deep breath before starting on your new life's journey.
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TMI potty talk coming at you...
Valentina replied to theladyslipper's topic in PRE-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
I have both--lucky me! I have the "no goes" from the Percocet I take and I experience the "ol dumping " experience whenever I eat anything spicy or overly sweet. What I do is try to balance my new life with these two factors. Each are a part of my life now, so I've learned to accept them and work with them rather than fight against them which just makes me more stressed and less focused on my journey. We all have to choose our battles and I refuse to let the bad things take precedent over all of the good and wonderful things that are happ'n! -
Bariatric Realities
Valentina replied to Connie Stapleton PhD's topic in Weight Loss Surgery Magazine
Wonderful! I've reread it several times and it becomes more relevant each time. -
Fat Shaming Husband...so hurt
Valentina replied to Bluesky1's topic in Gastric Sleeve Surgery Forums
Hello again, my friend. So very happy for you that your surgery is behind you. So, here you are at the gateway to your new future. I don't believe that now is the best time for you to be making any life changing decisions. You just had major surgery. You mind, and spirit as well as your body need time to "heal". Be kind to yourself. Take a breath. Rest for a wee bit. You will have to choose our own battles, just not now. Rest, observe your "world" around you. You had the strength to have major surgery when your worldly support was crumbling all around you. You will know what the right decisions will be--for you. Trust yourself. Prayers still going up for you, my friend. Keep letting us know how you're doing. -
I just made it up! It's just an idea I had. I like the name--kinda like, "The Red Hat Society".
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Any other 'oldies' out there?
Valentina replied to Cathy48's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
I'm confused-my usual state of mind... Are you having the bypass, or a sleeve? I applaud you for your decision to go for either one. I am 63 and have absolutely not one regret about having been sleeve. It was one of the few good decisions I've made. Welcome! -
I think that a social club organizer would work. --something like "The Green Sleeved Society". A membership fee to join and then additional fees for different activities, trips, recipe exchange socials, speakers, walks, activities, etc.
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I tried Johnny Carson's diet of eating nothing but ice cream. (of course coffee ice cream for breakfast) Loved it and after a few days there was considerably more of me to love!
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Hopefully, that was a learning moment for HIM.
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Oh Bother. Woke up with a very painful and swollen left knee--my replaced knee. How can I do this in the pool?
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heat/ice, heat/ice. Orthopod "promised" that I only "tweaked" it and no real harm has been done. Damn! I have had not one twinge of pain in that "plastic" knee in 4yrs. Now that I'm trying to get back on track I blow it. Damn, Damn, Damn! I Will be back in the pool on Monday--just not pushing to do 8,000 steps. (Maybe that was asking for trouble). I can do this, right, Dub?
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Yes, yes, yes you can. Listen to your body, though. Listen well....and take appropriate action. I'm an idiot in this category and have been forced to slow down at the right times and heal. I know that you are much smarter. Take it easy and recover, my friend. Ya gotta have good wheels to get around with. That knee is crucial. I know the pool is fun place, though.....just be careful.
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Thank you, Friend--for the support. I've always lacked that and find that it is what I need the most-being alone now. I took yesterday and the weekend off, then on Monday I plan to do an hour in the pool--not two on three days a week for right now. Is this a sensible routine until I build up some strength? I know you have gym experience where I have none. I'm just winging it! I think I can do this pool business if you can out swim alligators!
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I going swimming about noon, so I have a Protein bar after and call it lunch. Good? I don't know, but as my 5yr old grandson says, "That's how I roll".
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The struggle is real today
Valentina replied to ttgill's topic in Tell Your Weight Loss Surgery Story
I remember the day when I actually threatened my son-in-law a chain saw death if he ate my last SF popsicle! They, by far are what got me through. I also made SF lemon Jello with cottage cheese on the bottom. I would serve it on a bed of lettuce. It was really good and fresh tasting. You got through another day. You got this!!!! Drink Crystal lite until your eyes float. That helps fill you up. Good luck, Girl friend. -
Joined the Post-Op class
Valentina replied to Barry W's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
Why do you not want to take your oxyies? There is a HUGE difference between using your medication and misusing your medication. If you're in moderate to severe pain, use you medication for pain. It's just another "tool" to get you up and moving as soon as possible. I'm sure your surgeon only gave you a few as they are so regulated these days. Unless you have a history of misusing pain killers (which if you do, your surgeon should have been made aware of long before surgery) you should have no fear of taking a pain medication as properly prescribed by your surgeon. You don't have to be "tough", or "superman" right now. You just have to move around as much as possible and get your water in. Glad to hear that surgery went well. Now be kind to yourself. Let us know how you're doing. We care. -
How frustrating! Im going through the same thing. Submitted for the 3rd time last week because my Medical Group wasn't "happy" with my PCPs notes for the 6th month diet. My PCP and I rewrote the notes and made them more "clear". This process has been so overwhelming. I'm so tried of waiting!! I'll say a prayer for both of us! ❤ Sometimes we have to "come in through the back door". Try calling the insurance company and ask them, "what wording do you need to see within my doctor's notes? Some insurance companies even have a "template" which asks all the right questions to ensure all of the right answers. This works. I used it for the patients that had "prickly" insurance companies that wouldn't approve any procedure until they saw "the magic words". Keep in mind that most of the time the people who receive the approval requests are NOT medically orientated individuals. Not fault of theirs. They are just not "allowed" to approve any request that does not contain certain verbiage. Also, once again---a one on one DOCTOR conference call. Just make sure that your doctor is actually speaking with a MD. Good luck. Give the above a try. Can't hurt! Keep us posted. We CARE!
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What did your and her surgeon have to say for himself?
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Ugh these protein shakes
Valentina replied to bobr68's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
I also suggest trying a different brand. Something is not agreeing with your belly. However, do not let this condition go on too long. Diarrhea can lead to dehydration VERY easily and quickly. Dehydration is nasty stuff. Maybe a call to your surgeon's office just for a recommendation and to keep them up to date about with your condition and progress. Can't hurt. I'm sure your experience is nothing new to your surgeon. (at least I hope you were not his first patient) Feel better and let us know how you're doing. -
Thank you, my friend. I will check them out. What is your opinion of the crispy pork rinds?
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"Tomorrow, Tomorrow--The sun will come out tomorrow". We are a gathering of every type of personality from every age group, every religion, every political persuasion and just plain weirdoes. The thing that we all have in common is mutual support for everyone taking this journey towards a healthier lifestyle. Welcome!! Ready to welcome you onto, "The Losers' Bench".