BlueSamurai

Hey Everyone! It's been a while since I posted as summer has been a crazy time for me as it probably is for everyone else. In addition to work, I was away for 10 days in July and then have had 4 weddings and a bachelor party in the last 5 weeks and more on the horizon. So, I haven't really had the opportunity to chime in here on the board. I am still kinda doing the couch to 5k workout. Although, after week 6 I just started running on my own. The podcast that I have breaks down the intervals and tells you when to run or walk. Problem is, after so many weeks, it is just running non-stop for 20-35 minutes. So, I just listen to my own music and off I go. I have completed the 5k on the treadmill twice so far but generally run 2 to 2.5 miles when go to the gym. The next goal for me is to start running outside and see how much of a setback I incur. I am sure that running outside is incredibly different than on a treadmill as I have to conquer uneven terrain, the unforgiving asphalt and the elements. So, I know it will get harder. I broke through the 100 lb. barrier this weekend. Since my day of surgery on 3/3/2010 I am down 68 lbs. and since 11/9/2009, when I had my first consult with Dr. R and Phyllis, I am down 101 lbs. total with only 45 to reach my personal goal. So, one goal down and more to go. I hope everyone is doing well and having a great summer! Take Care and Keep Kicking Butt!

I was banded on 3/3 and joined Planet Fitness on 4/17 - about 6 weeks post-op. Now that I have been going, I have developed into kind of a gym nut. I try to go at least 4 times a week, if not more, for 1 and 1/2 to 2 hours. I start out with 30 minutes on the treadmill - followed by 45 minutes or so hitting the weights and machinces. Then it's 30 minutes + on the elliptical. For the treadmill, I am actually on the "Couch to 5k" program. I have NEVER been a runner at all in my life and this program is kicking my butt. But it feels great and I am starting week 5 tonight. All in all - I usually burn 1000-1200 calories when I am there.

I am 3 months out this Thursday and hav had 2 fills thus far. I too have no problem downing or guzzling water whatsoever. I drink well over 100 ounces of water a day. Usually mix in some Crystal Lite to change it up.........

Hi Paige, The Couch 2 5k is going pretty well. I am surprised that I have finished all of the runs so far. You are supposed to do it 3 days a week but I do it 4. The reason for the extra day is because I have NEVER been able to sustain any type of running distance in my life. Could never run the mile in gym class etc. So, I am hoping that the extra day helps me out some. I just finished week 4 and am going to be starting week 5 tomorrow. From what I have read, week 5 is one of the tougher ones to conquer. It goes something like this: Day 1 Brisk five-minute warmup walk, then: Jog 1/2 mile (or 5 minutes) Walk 1/4 mile (or 3 minutes) Jog 1/2 mile (or 5 minutes) Walk 1/4 mile (or 3 minutes) Jog 1/2 mile (or 5 minutes) Day 2 Brisk five-minute warmup walk, then: Jog 3/4 mile (or 8 minutes) Walk 1/2 mile (or 5 minutes) Jog 3/4 mile (or 8 minutes) Day 3 Brisk five-minute warmup walk, then jog two miles (or 20 minutes) with no walking. So, obviously Day 3 is what worries me the most as it jumps right in to running for approximately 2 miles :thumbup:! But, the way I look at is "Whatever Doesn't kill me can only make me Stronger!" I am on pace to finish the program around the first week in July. So, I committed to running the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer 5k in September with my wife, sister-in-law(s) and cousins. So, it should be interesting. As far as everything else, the weight loss has been steady so far. I think it is a byproduct of th Couch 2 5k as well as going to th gym for 1 and 1/2 to 2 hours at last 4 times a week. Heading back to see Dr. R on 6/14 and hope that the "Official" scale doesn't let me down. How is everyone else doing? Keep it up everyone!

Hey Everyone! I hope you are all doing well........... Just wanted to check in and see how we were all doing and say Hi. I am still plugging along and doing pretty good. I have been hitting the gym 3-4 times a week for about a month now. Had my 1st fill about 5 weeks ago and it went alright. The weight loss slowed down a bit. But I increased my Protein to 100-120 grams a day (per the NUT) and that seemed to kick start it a bit. So I am back on the right track. Also just started the "Couch to 5k" program and am in week 3 for that. It's kicking my butt but feels good, like I am accomplishing something. Had my 2nd fill with Dr. R yesterday. Went with 5cc's in my 14cc band. He is pleased with my progress so far. Although, I am disappointed in the scale at his office. For the past week I had been at some really good "loss" numbers and was really excited. However, when I weighed in at his office, there was a 9 lb. swing.....in the wrong direction! Now, I normally weigh in first thing inthe morning when I get out of the shower. I weigh in at the Dr.'s office at 4pm. So, I have to tkae into account all the water I drank that day (average 90-100 oz. at work) and I ate lunch at 1pm. But a 9 lb. difference? Damn........ So, what do you consider your "Official" scale? Your home scale or the Doctor's office? Just curious........

Hey Teech! I am actually doing pretty good. I had a fill with Dr. R on 4/12, so I am trying that out to see how it goes. I have to head back on 5/16 for a follow-up and probably another fill. Just joined Planet Fitness in Dedham as I can resume physical activity again now that i am 6 weeks Post-Op. So, I am trying to go 3-4 times a week. I think that my weight loss has slowed down a little bit. Not sure if it'smy diet or not. I am trying to keep my caloric intake to 1200-1500 a day or so. I emailed Phyllis to find out what I might be doing wrong but she never emails me back. I think it is because I have lowered my protein with my newer diet. I think I should aim for 75-100 grams per day but my wife disagrees and says it should be 50-60. So, i am trying to find the root cause...........Any advice from people would be much appreciated. Take Care Everyone!

Still nothing, huh? Well, I hope everyone is staying safe out there!

Not sure if it is because I am a relatively new "Bandster" but I weigh myself every day as well. I usually do it first thing in the morning before I hop in the shower. However, I find that there is a big difference between that morning weight and the afternoon weight(s). usually 3-4 lbs. So, I feel pretty good in the a.m. and then get brought down to earth in the afternoon. Worse part is, my Dr. appointments are ALWAYS after 3:30pm. So, my numbers are higher when I weigh in there. I think part of it is that i have been heavy for so long that it is great to see the scales moving in the right direction for the time being. That being said, it can have the opposite effect when my weight loss begins to slow down. I guess I just have to find a happy medium and limit my weigh-ins. I think this will be tough because, being new to the "Band", I like to know how I am doing and to try and find a good routine. To each his own I guess.........Good Luck Everyone!

I just want to say that I think it is incredibly courageous for people to come on here and discuss their troubles. Nobody ever likes to admit anything bad about themselves, let alone on a public forum. It shows great humility and grace. To those that are struggling, I know I am new to the "scene", but I just want everyone to know that I am pulling for them to do well and get back on track. I am a big believer that things happen for a reason and that whatever does not kill us only makes us stronger. We have all made a major decision to improve not only our lives but our loved ones as well. You have done it before and I guarantee you most assuredly CAN do it again! Take Care Everyone! P.S. - Had my first fill with Dr. Robinson on Monday. Not as bad as I thought. No pain etc. Still losing weight 6 weeks post-op. Got 4cc's in my 14 cc band. I actually had no idea what size band I had. Everytime I went to ask, I completely spaced out and never did. He probably told me weeks ago anyway. Trying to schedule another appointment in a months time. Hoping to lose 12-15 lbs. before then........

Just a quick question for everyone and I apologize in advance if it's been discussed or not: How do you know when you can tolerate certain foods? For example, when you learn which foods get stuck etc. and which to avoid? Is it right away or is it more when you get your fills? The reason I ask is that, last week I progressed into the maintaining phase of my diet. (i.e. no more mushies or stages - basically moving onto normal life). Well, as we all know, Easter was yesterday and I spent the weekend on the Cape with my wife's family. We rent out 25-30 rooms in a hotel and basically have a reunion of sorts. I figured that this would be a good time to try and figure out what i could handle as far as food went. While I didn't go overboard, I found myself able to essentially tolerate most foods with no real problems. I had a few instances where I maybe ate too fast and my stomach was in knots but no issues as far as getting stuck or PB-ing. I know that everyone is different as far as what their body will allow them to do and I know I am not out of the woods yet. I just don't want to get lulled into this false sense of security that I can handle all foods. Any info/advice is appreciated. Thanks Everyone!

Started at 369 lbs. at initial consult on 11/9/09 2 days before surgery 337 lbs. on 3/2/10 12 day Post-op follow up 322 lbs. on 3/15/10 Today, approximately 314 lbs.

Ummmm.....you're welcome :wub:

Hey Everyone! I hope you all are doing good and kicking arse! I am 13 days Post-Op and feeling great. The first few days were a bit rough, but after that I felt fine. Little to no pain and or gas. Lucky me! Although, in the post-op diet, I have been feeling weak from time to time. I am following the instructions to the letter with all the protein and water requirements. Sometimes, I just feel a bit weak. Hopefully it will subside as I move into the "mushy" phase. I had a follow up with Dr. Robinson at the Faulkner yesterday. I have lost 15 lbs since seeing him pre-op on 3/1. So, needless to say, I am pumped. Although, all I wanted to do when I went in there was to have him cut me loose from the liquid diet and progress me to the mushies 2 days early. But I was so excited about the weight loss, I forgot to ask!:wub: Heidi - dont get yourself down. Positive attitiudes and emotions can go a looong way. Just think long term and your goals will be realized. Don't sweat the small stuff! You CAN do it! Take Care!

....bump....

Way to go man, Keep it Up!!! I am exacly 1 week Post-Op and have my first follow-up next Monday. I have to admit, I'm a little jealous that you are on Mushies 9 days out. I have to wait for 2 weeks out.......:wub: So, needless to say, I am languising in bandster Hell right now.

I am almost a week Post-Op and definitely feel everyones pain. The worse part, I found was that every now and then, I would get a craving or get a whiff of someone's food and get wicked hungry. But, it passes. Trust Me. I always tried to drink as much Water as possible to keep me full. If not, I would chew a piece of gum to take my mind off things. Not to rain on anyone's parade but, it gets tougher AFTER surgery. Like I said, I am a week out and have been on a clear liquid only diet. So, it has been almost 3 weeks since I had any solid or substantial food. In another week, I move on to soft foods and "mushies". I would say that, with all of the rumblings going on in your new stomach, you feel even hungrier now.........

Banded 3/3/2010 at Brigham & Women's and I am from Boogie Down Beantown!!!

Hey Everyone! So, I was banded this past Wednesday @ 9:30 (first surgery of the day). Things went well and I felel pretty good. The day after surgery was a bt rough at times but I think it was because I was canky and tired. Those of you who had surgery @ The Brigham probably know that sleeping isn's all that easy. My room was right outside the Nurse's station and they were loud all day AND night. Plus, they seeme totake my vitals every 2 hours or so. Any way, I've been at home for a few days now and feel like I'm getting better everyday. Not really sore or gassy.....Just trying to take it slow and drink my protein and fluids. Its slow going but I know I made the right decision. Thanks to everyone for the encouragement and words of support. I truly appreciate it!!!

Hello Everyone. I hope you are all doing well and kicking butt! Tomorrow's the big day for me at The Brigham. I don't have my surgery time yet. I will find out when I call tonight between 3-6:30pm. Not really nervous........yet. Met with Dr. Robinson yesterday to go over any last minute questions etc. I am down 32 lbs. since my initial consult on 11/9, so I am pleased with that. Any last words of advice from some of the vets out there? BTW - Paige, we were both at The Faulkner yesterday. I was going to say Hello but didnt want to come off as a creepy forum stalker of some sort since we've never met before. :thumbup: I was sitting across from you in the waiting room while you were talking to the older gentleman that just had his procedure.

Tomorrow's the Big Day for me. Not sure what time my surgery is slated for (I have to call today between 3-6:30pm) Surprisingly, I'm not that nervous. The real test will be when I try to fall asleep tonight. Good Luck to all and just remember: "We can Do it!!!"

1 week to go - Getting Banded on March 3rd at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston. I am now on week 2 of my 2 week pre-op diet. Not bad so far and I actually am looking forward to how much I lost. This next week should be pretty intersting. Good Luck Everyone!

What's Happening Everyone? I hope you are all staying safe out there! I knowthis thread hasn't been updated in a while but I thought I would give it a shot. I have a few questions for some of you....Did anyone get the band prior to attending their respective academy? Or, was everyone on the job when they had their procedure? I am being banded on 3/3 and there is a possibility that I may be in a Police Academy by late summer. My question is, how long before I can resume training after being banded? I know that I cannot do anything too strenuos for several weeks. I am more concerned with my cardio as I envision that being the most diffcult for me if I attend the academy. Any insight or thoughts that you could share would be great. Thanks

Hi All, Getting banded on 3/3 and was wondering how people feel about after meal drinking. If i go out to eat, sometimes I like to have a cup of coffee afterwards. Now, I now that caffeeine will be a no-no so I am switching to decaf. What will happen if I enjoy a nice cup o' joe post meal? Will my piouch be too full to handle it? Thus leading to other complications etc. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks

Well - the countdown is on. I am one month out from my surgery date. Met with Dr. Robinson yesterday and he is pleased with my progress since November. I have to meet with him one more time to sign all the consent forms etc. Next up is the 2 week pre-op diet which should be alot of fun ........ Do any of the vets on here have any advice on things to stock up on to make my recovery time easier? I am slated to have the procedure on a Wednesday and HAVE to go back to work the following Monday. Trust me, if I could take the necessary time off, I would. But, it is what is. Thankfully I work in an office where I can get up and walk around if need be. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Tova - I think we were @ The Faulkner at the same time yesterday and you were right ahead of me. I thought I heard them call your name....... Oh Ya - I gots me a "Ticker" too.....What - What?

On a lighter note, at least you're not these folks: American man Charles Osborne had the hiccups for 68 years, from 1922 to 1990, and was entered in the Guinness World Records as the man with the Longest Attack of Hiccups.[11] In 2007, a teenager from Florida in the United States hiccuped around 50 times a minute for more than five weeks.[12] After her hiccups returned, her neurologist suggested that she may have Tourette syndrome, and the hiccups may be a "tic" caused by Tourette's.[13] Christopher Sands from the UK had hiccups for a period of almost three years which was eventually discovered to be due to a tumor located on the part of the brain that controls vascular activities, once 2/3 of the tumor was removed the hiccups appeared to settle and Sands no longer suffers from his condition