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Everything posted by ~amy~
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honw long does it take to actually start losing??
~amy~ replied to dragonflylover's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
Thank you soooo much for this!! I was banded 2/10/10, and although I've lost 32 lbs (pre-op diet to present), I've recently hit a road bump. I'm only taking in 300 - 400(if I'm lucky) calories a day, but I've found that if I increase it, I start to gain a little. When I decrease my intake back down to 300, I start losing again. I can't live like this! I'm a homeschool mom with 4 kids! I need some energy. The Protein shakes make me ill - very ill - and I haven't been drinking them b/c I'm soooo afraid of vomiting and causing a slip. I did find one today that's not so bad, so I'm going to try that from here on. I just kept worrying that I was taking in too many calories since I wasn't losing - but your explanation makes a lot of sense. I'll definitely try to increase my calorie intake and see what happens. I'm just sooooooo afraid of gaining!! I'm getting about 3 bottles of water down a day. It's not because I can't get it down, it's just a matter of remembering to. I need to do better with this, too. Thanks again for posting! :eek: -
Yes, we have to go often just to stop by Build a Bear!! I can't wait for this spring when it's a little warmer - we'll be there a lot - good exercise for me! I had my surgery here in Texarkana - by Dr. Hekier. Only a couple of problems so far - but I'm healing well. I go back for my 2 week follow up tomorrow at 3pm. I'm a little nervous, but excited! :wink:
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So It's True...Haters will emerge as you lose!
~amy~ replied to titiay30's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
Well said, JoJo....I guess it's another one of those "Reason, Season, Lifetime" things. Now if I could just make myself remember this when I need it most! :eek: lol... -
Hey Kim! I'm not far from you at all!! I'm in Texarkana, and I just had my surgery on the 10th. We go to Shreveport a lot...my kiddos love the Boardwalk! :wink: Good luck with your journey - let me know if you ever need a buddy!
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So It's True...Haters will emerge as you lose!
~amy~ replied to titiay30's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
Oh how awesome is this!!! Congratulations!! I know how excited you all must be! :wink: -
So It's True...Haters will emerge as you lose!
~amy~ replied to titiay30's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
Now I'm wondering how many of our "friends" who have such a problem with our weight loss are also overweight as well. Is this the "fat friend phenomenon"?? I don't want to be your "fat friend"! If the only reason you hang out with me is to make yourself feel better about your own body, then please take a hike...to hell. While I try to have a pretty good understanding of the skinny friend thing that we just talked about, I do however, have a BIG issue with my overweight friends treating me like crap because I'll no longer be the fattest one in the group. What is that all about anyway? -
So It's True...Haters will emerge as you lose!
~amy~ replied to titiay30's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
Not that this comment wouldn't annoy the hell out of me, too, but you may consider that this person may not feel all that great about her body either. I had a very skinny room- mate in college. Every time I would diet, she would say something like, "Please don't get too skinny!" It always annoyed me, but one day we had a conversation about it. Turns out, she thought her body was "hideous" and wished that she could have some curves like me. Changed my outlook on her immediately. Just be careful when you run into a skinny person who makes a comment like this - you may not realize the self-image issues she might be dealing with. Just a thought. :wink: -
My Husband Is Driving me Nuts!
~amy~ replied to titiay30's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
Denise - I'm sorry if you misunderstood what I was trying to say. I should have been more clear there. I meant that his attitude reflected a previous poster's comment in that he believes that it's my decision and my responsibility and that his eating issues are not my eating issues....and particularly the part about "What is he supposed to do, not eat?" That's the "attitude" he takes- his actions are MUCH worse than that, I agree. I wasn't trying to be snippy about the previous posters comment. That's a valid attitude to have - so no offense to her meant at all. I think he uses that thought process as an excuse to behave like an a$$, though. We've had problems in the past, but for the last several years, things have been fine. He was supportive before the surgery - we were actually BOTH supposed to do the surgery together. But after he jumped through all the insurace hoops, he decided he didn't want to go through with it, and cited several reasons - the main one being that he wanted to try the Atkins diet again because he enjoys eating "all he can eat." I'm not sure what the future holds - I do know that he took exquisite care of me in the 3 days following the surgery, but the two weeks before and after that were a nightmare. I am hoping and praying that things will get better once I am able to have solid food. At least I'll be able to actually MAKE a food choice. For now it's just feeling like deprivation and starvation...which is probably made worse by the food waving. lol.... Oh, and my response to the FIL was "I'm glad you're enjoying that - at Christmastime this year, I'll be 135 lbs, and you won't be able to zip your pants." :wink: -
I seriously doubt this pain is part of it for the long haul- I was banded on 2/10, and that kind of pain subsided after about day 5. I hope your doc has some type of suggestions for you - maybe if you're released for more intense exercise, that will take care of it. Maybe the walking isn't doing it for you. I know this is a personal question, but have you tried having sex? I haven't tried yet...incisions are still too sore. But with a previous surgery with gas pain in my shoulder, that did the trick. Just a suggestion - really hate to get that personal!
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banded 2/19, having a bad day, need some support
~amy~ replied to Laura P's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
I'm freshly banded, too, and I have to say that I felt the same way you did. I got a little discouraged at first seeing how many people on this forum felt "great" after a few days, or when I saw this one guy posting from his room at the dang hospital!!! Why couldn't it be that easy for me?!! It's easy to throw a pity party when you're feeling alone and discouraged. Just know that you're not alone, and that this is only a means to an end - your goal weight!!! As for the advice - I can only say that I wish I had forced more Water, and started stool softeners earlier (I didn't know I had a problem until it was too late and had to go to the ER...I'm sure being a nurse, you're aware of what they do for an impaction). Not fun!! Let me know if you need a buddy - you can email me or PM me...I'll be happy to help any way I can!! -
My Husband Is Driving me Nuts!
~amy~ replied to titiay30's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
I can totally relate. My DH does the same thing. While I was on the pre-op liquid diet, he would come home with my favorite fast food and actually wave it in my face. He has the attitude of another poster - that it's not his problem, but mine...but he's actually more obese than I am. He says that I chose this and I need to learn to live with my decision. The problem I have with this reasoning is that it doesn't take into account what our marriage is supposed to represent....a TEAM. When one person makes a decision to do something better for herself, the other person should at least TRY to support that decision instead of intentionally trying to sabotage it, which is what I believe my DH is doing when he gets mad if I don't want to fix him ice cream in the evening. (HELLOOOOO, Don't you have legs???) My DH gets this honestly from his father...as he was the one who called several nights ago to "just let ya know I just had a huge bowl of chicken and dumplings and I'm working on my 2nd brownie right now. How do ya feel about that?" While I definitely wanted to slap the FIL, I take more offense to my DH's behavior because he's my partner, my team mate...and he's supposed to protect me from harm, not create more opportunities for it. This is not to say that I don't believe that I alone bear the most responsibility of anyone for my own decisions and weight loss. I know that I am the one who has to make the committment to stay away from unhealthy food, and I have no problem with that aspect of it. I just wish that decision didn't include having to stay away from my husband, too. -
Congrats!! You're feeling better than I did at 5 days post op!! Woo hoo!! It should all be downhill from here!
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Holy Cow!!! You're my hero!! I wasn't even CLOSE to being coherent enough to post IN ROOM (or for 3 days after surgery for that matter!!)
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So It's True...Haters will emerge as you lose!
~amy~ replied to titiay30's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
This is sooo true! I have a friend / former coworker who has actually succeeded in sabotaging every diet I've tried in the last 4 years. She's only about 25 lbs lighter than me, but I guess I was her "fat friend," and she didn't want to lose that security that she felt not being the biggest one in the room. Now that I'm no longer working with her, it's a lot easier for me to stay on track and not let her negativity affect my future!! I'm taking my life back for ME!!! The truth is....I am not the same person I used to be. I used to be very outgoing, athletic, and the life of every party. When I got fat, I turned inward, and became shy and insecure. And I sincerely hope to God, that my personality is affected by my weight loss. And if she can't deal with it, then she needs to go along her merry way... You've probably already seen this floating around via email, but I found it appropriate here...sorry for the length. Reason, Season, or Lifetime People come into your life for a reason, a season or a lifetime. When you figure out which one it is, you will know what to do for each person. When someone is in your life for a REASON, it is usually to meet a need you have expressed. They have come to assist you through a difficulty; to provide you with guidance and support; to aid you physically, emotionally or spiritually. They may seem like a godsend, and they are. They are there for the reason you need them to be. Then, without any wrongdoing on your part or at an inconvenient time, this person will say or do something to bring the relationship to an end. Sometimes they die. Sometimes they walk away. Sometimes they act up and force you to take a stand. What we must realize is that our need has been met, our desire fulfilled; their work is done. The prayer you sent up has been answered and now it is time to move on. Some people come into your life for a SEASON, because your turn has come to share, grow or learn. They bring you an experience of peace or make you laugh. They may teach you something you have never done. They usually give you an unbelievable amount of joy. Believe it. It is real. But only for a season. LIFETIME relationships teach you lifetime lessons; things you must build upon in order to have a solid emotional foundation. Your job is to accept the lesson, love the person, and put what you have learned to use in all other relationships and areas of your life. It is said that love is blind but friendship is clairvoyant. — Unknown -
I know this is totally TMI, but I'm in some serious pain here. I'm 9 days post op....and it's been 10 days since my last bm. I was advised that constipation is normal, and to be expected, but this is getting out of control. I started a few mushies yesterday and today with no trouble, so it's definitely time for some action! Unlike while I was on the pre-op diet, I do at least feel the need to go now. But it's just not happening. I'm nauseated and am getting chills. I've tried apple juice, orange juice, applesauce, and even 2 doses of Milk of Magnesia, which was only used as a last resort this afternoon b/c I was told to avoid laxatives. NOTHING is working and I am to the point where I am hurting so badly, that I can't stand or sit. Does anyone have any suggestions? Going to the store isn't an option right now (3 kiddos), but the hubs gets off work at midnight, so he can make a dash if necessary. I'm ready to try anything! :sad:
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Thanks - I have Miralax here for my little girl and I did give it a try that night (it was difficult to keep up with everything I tried that night). I was just too far gone for anything to work. The only thing is, I would caution against using Miralax, or any product too often b/c it is habit forming....I don't care what any doctor says. I know this first hand. If you use Miralax too often, your body forgets how to take care of business by itself, and requires the use of more product to get the job done. I was told to make sure to watch my diet and exercise (yeah, right! Post surgery -helloooo) and that I could drink warm, watered down prune juice daily if I started having other issues. So now, as a preventative measure, I have about 4 oz of prune juice mixed with 2 oz of Water, heated up - every morning instead of coffee or hot chocolate (as my nurse had originally recommended). The water cuts down on the horrible taste of straight prune juice, and I actually kind of like it now. Plus - prune juice is natural, and that makes me feel better about having it every day, even though it is pretty high in calories. Thanks again!!
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Easter Challenge Anyone?
~amy~ replied to mrsgriffin2u's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
April, I haven't cheated yet, but I can soooooo totally feel your pain!! I've come so close so many times!! And I'm still supposed to be on liquids. I say "supposed to be" because I've moved on to some thinned mushies. I can't drink the protein shakes because they make me ILL. I was only having about 300 calories a day and 0 protein. Not good. I'm in that freshly banded stage where you feel hungry, but there's no restriction at ALL!! I'm starving, and I've talked myself out of more meltdowns this week than ever in my life. So I can definitely empathize with you! I came up with a rule when I was on the pre-op liquid diet. If I wanted to cheat, I had to chant, OUT LOUD before I could take even the smallest of bites: "I'm a strong person and I can refrain!! I'm a strong person and I can refrain!! I'm a strong person and I can refrain!!" If I still wanted to cheat after that, I could. And guess what? I never cheated ONCE! Stay strong!! You can do this!!! :tongue_smilie: -
I never, ever, ever thought I'd agree with a statement like this.....but alas! I do! :sad:
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Easter Challenge Anyone?
~amy~ replied to mrsgriffin2u's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
I'm down 2 more lbs, too! Woo hoo!! :frown: I'm at 231! -
Easter Challenge Anyone?
~amy~ replied to mrsgriffin2u's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
Wow! I just took a look at the spreadsheet - everybody's doing soooo great!! Woo hooo!!!! :frown: Way to go!! -
I made a photo mantauge of the outfits I'm going to buy when I get to goal....
~amy~ replied to marfar7's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
This is an awesome idea!! What a great way to reward yourself for all the hard work! I would have never thought of buying a gift card - I would have just stuffed some money back with good intentions, and then spent it on bills or whatever else came up. A gift card is perfect! :frown: -
Thanks everyone!! I am soooo much better! I have always struggled with mild constipation - since I was a little girl, but have never experienced anything like this! Unfortunately, it seems that this could be an on-going problem with the band. I hope that this thread may help others who hadn't expected it to be this serious. Every other thread I found explained problems, but very few solutions...and none of them explored the possibility of severe impaction - which could be fatal if left untreated for too long. So please keep the suggestions coming - they are sure to help someone else in the future!! Thanks again!! :sad: :frown:
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Just to reiterate what others have said here, I was banded on 2-10, and I stalled for a few days too, this week. Due to some medical issues, I have now started losing again, but I was just told by my surgery nurse yesterday (we're neighbors - she was also banded 7 years ago and has kept the weight off), that any weight that I have lost before my first fill is BONUS weight. She said that my surgeon doesn't expect any weight loss until after the first fill, and in fact, a lot of people gain in those first weeks. So don't get down on yourself!! Give your body time to heal. The band can't really work properly until it's been filled. Then, as long as you make healthy choices and exercise, it should be smooth sailing for ya! :frown: Good Luck!! :sad:
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Dirty lil secret or business as usual??
~amy~ replied to JustAskinThx's topic in Weight Loss Surgeons & Hospitals
My surgeon didn't have a program fee at all, and he offers a a dietician, in-house support group (in which he himself participates), and a blog/message board system where he and his wife (also a lap-band surgeon) post all kinds of helpful hints, recipes, exercise ideas, and general support. If a patient has a general question, he/she can post to the message board and will receive an answer (no actual medical advice, though - which is completely understandable). I don't get the vibe from them that they're just out to make a quick buck...they actually care about their patients, are very knowledgable, practice what they preach (good eating habits, exercise), and to me, that's what makes a good doctor. I think you have to trust your instincts about people. You said yourself that he was "very slick." That alone says to me that you don't completely trust him. And I wouldn't let any doctor near me unless I trusted him with my LIFE - which is what you'll be doing on surgery day. I'd say it was time to find somebody else. Good luck!!