iwillbeachitagain

Done! Just consigned a bunch of size 20 / 2x! And the rest are being donated to a good cause. Yay!

I am officially down 50 pounds and out of my size 20s and 2x clothes. I really want to give them away and try to sell the good stuff on consignment - but should I? Is this weight loss really for life? I feel like I'm in a dream I don't want to wake up from!

Yes, at BJs. Chocolate only - good thing because Chocolate is the only flavor I can stomach!

Even with a 44 pound loss, I already have scary loose skin on my upper arms. I wear sleeveless tops and dresses all summer ... Does anyone have suggestions for exercises to firm them up? Is there a surgical procedure that can be done way in the future after I have met and maintained my goal?

Thank you for these suggestions! I purchased the big book and eat it up -

My doctor's instructions: "No bending, twisting or lifting more than 20lbs in the first 3 weeks. Treadmill and Eliptical are the only equipment allowed." I stayed home 2 weeks, walked at least 15 - 45 minutes a day as soon as I was discharged from the hospital, tried to do too much housework (what housework doesn't involve twisting and bending?!) and probably should have taken an additional week off due to my physical job working with young children. I am 4 weeks out and still experiencing extreme fatigue and some large incision pain. Be kind to yourself. You are worth it.

I would like to purchase a book that addresses any and all questions a post VSG patient would want to know. Also, it would be great to find a book that has tasty high Protein recipes. Which books can you recommend?

I am 24 days post op and still feeling very fatigued and achy. Since the beginning of this process (end of November) I have lost 43 pounds which is fantastic! But, I thought this weight loss success would make me feel better and more energetic. I am not able to eat much, two quarter size meatballs in tomato sauce and a quarter of a slice of fresh mozzarella cheese (for example), in one sitting; but I am trying very hard to get at least 40 grams of Protein in each day by supplementing with Protein shakes. Also, when I do eat, I get a very uncomfortable feeling in the base of my sternum (area). Almost like I have swallowed glass. This sensation makes me want to avoid food all together! This is my only source of support, so I really appreciate any feedback. Also, to be honest, I think I am mourning the loss of three of my favorite things: nutritious food, coffee and red wine. Life seems so dull - especially when I don't have any energy. Blah. One last question... as I progress on this journey, how do I update my stats?

Something about the sugar alcohol in chewing gum was an issue .... ? Not sure what or how though. Anyone have an answer?

Hello Mdawncooper, I am sorry for my delayed response! So, I almost didn't go through with the surgery because I was afraid the PMR flare pain would be too much on top of the sleeve recovery pain... The surgeon convinced me to go through with it and said that a week post op I could resume prednisone if needed. Well here's the miracle: severe bi-lateral leg pain is gone! It could have just been the prednisone withdrawal symptoms rather than a flare; but I am so happy to be on the other side of this surgery and OFF prednisone! The Doc told me they give all patients a dose of steroids in the O.R., so that could have helped as well. The tell-tale symptoms are bi-lateral pain (rather than one side only). The only way diagnosis can be confirmed is to try Prednisone. If the pain resolves within three days or less after beginning prednisone, then you know you have PMR. My pain was in my legs and lower back ; rather than in the shoulders and neck where it is more common. The prednisone worked and I felt great (but also gained weight). I am am hopeful that my symptoms will not return and when I have my C-reactive Protein levels tested that they are lower. It is so nice to be certain that I will lose weight and feel better as a result! Down 34 lbs. since I began this process in late November!

My doctor suggests taking Calcium citrate three times per day but two hours apart from taking the multi-Vitamin two times a day .... That is a lot of times in one day to remember to take a vitamin!!! Do you have any tips tricks to build this into your daily routine and make it a habit? I appreciate your suggestions!

I am having surgery on Tuesday 2/16. My surgeon required me to taper off of prednisone and now I am in so much PAIN. I have excruciating pain in my legs, hips and lower back. I guess I will have to talk to my surgeon about it when I get to the hospital to find out if it is a good idea to add pain upon pain.

Yes! I am having surgery on the 16th (because the 15th is a holiday). I have very little support - so I would really appreciate forming a group!

BrnAgn39, I am also having sleeve surgery on Tuesday!