TheNewMeTX

I have struggled with my weight most of my life. The only time I did not struggle was in high school, when I was on the varsity swimming team, swimming long distance, and working out five hours per day. Who has time for that in the real world? Bouts with depression and anxiety added to the problem. Add in stress and emotional issues over divorce, single parenting, and a big move from small town to big city and a new stressful job, and I had my cocktail for stress/emotional eating. As I gained weight, I developed polycystic ovarian syndrome and insulin resistance, which only added to difficulties in my weight loss efforts. I could consistently lose about 25-30 pounds; then I'd never get past the plateau, and I'd regain with a little extra to add insult to injury. 
 
I had thought about WLS when I was younger, but my parents were absolutely opposed. I did not have the will or the money to have it done then. I began thinking about it again when my best friend had successful RNY in August 2014. When I saw the dreaded 3 in front of my weight (303), I decided I had to do something different. I am an adventurous person, but my weight took that away from me. I was too heavy for zip lining. I couldn't fit in a roller coaster to enjoy the adrenaline with my daughter. And so many other things.
 
I went to my first pre-op consultation in October 2014. I started the process of meeting the insurance requirements. My insurance only covered 50%, so I started shoring up my finances. I had  my RNY surgery 04/13/15. My surgery went without a hitch. I was out of the hospital in one day instead of two. My post-op experience thus far has been a little tough and frustrating. I found 64oz of fluid is insufficient for me. I kept having terrible bouts of exhaustion, including dizziness and nausea. My doctor said usually those were symptoms of dehydration, not hunger as I'd thought, so I increased my water intake to 80oz daily. I felt so much better.
 
When I was in the liquid phase, I wanted a scrambled egg so badly. When I was given the okay to start soft foods, including eggs, and I'd managed to keep down yogurt and protein shakes, I tried the scrambled eggs. I only got through half before I got sick. So I backed off and several days later tried again. Same result. I have had no trouble with canned tuna, beans, canned salmon, and chicken. I've even started adding in some vegetables, like green beans and broccoli. I still can't manage the eggs.
 
I fully expect exercise to be the most difficult part of my journey. I just simply do not like it. For a while I expect I will have to force myself to go. I do better with weights and group classes than other options. I do best with a personal trainer, but I can't afford or justify that expense at this time. 
 
As for me personally, I have a 14 y/o daughter, whom I've raised on my own since she was very small. We are so close; we're a team. She's helping keep me on track. I'm an introvert, so I may lurk on the boards more than I post. Though, I will reply if I feel I have something value-added to say. I enjoy any water activity, in particular jet skiing and swimming. The two most relaxing places on the planet for me are my parents' back porch and the beach. I enjoy reading and TV crime dramas.