Today I met with Dr. G to go over my EGD results from late January.
Nothing bad showed up but he said he did see my (small) hiatal hernia and said he'd fix it for me while he's doing my sleeve. It should help cut down on my acid reflux in addition to eating better foods.
Before I got to Dr. G, Jennifer the Nurse took my blood pressure (normal) and weight. I said, "you're going to weigh me while I'm here?" and she replied, "I have to weigh you every time you're here." I had just drunk a coffee (yes, coffee -- my friend Michelle got me liking the white chocolate mochas at Starbucks and they have one in the hospital). So I felt fat and full and bloated and of course that weighed me down. Literally. Since my Nutritionist #3 appointment on February 10th, I gained another three pounds. Geez!
But what do I expect. I've been eating whatever I want and not walking. My next appointment with Ashton the Nutritionist is on March 12th, so I have about two weeks to try and lose a few pounds (which would make me feel less guilty).
I know I don't have to, but I want to. And to start in the right direction, I skipped my evening snack tonight. There.
Wednesday, February 26, 2014
Tuesday, February 25, 2014
Psych!
Today was my psychological evaluation. I had some butterflies beforehand, but enjoyed it more than I'd imagined! My dumb ass forgot all the paperwork I had filled out in advance, so I had to do it all over again Oh well, good thing I was early.
Once I got back with the doctor, she set me up on a computer to answer about 170 true or false questions. I love filling shit out, so I was all over this! Some of the questions were interesting, all were only a sentence long, and some were thrown in to make sure you were paying attention. I answered truthfully and for the most part, swiftly, however, there were a few that I had to think hard about which way I leaned more on the answer.
Once I was done with the computer test, there were a couple other tests that asked me how I had been feeling for the last one or two weeks, respectively.
After I completed all of the testing, which took approximately 20-30 minutes, I met with the doctor in her office. She asked me a bunch of questions. We talked about why I chose the vertical sleeve gastrectomy over gastric bypass. She asked me about my support system, about what changes I was making in advance of the surgery and checked my understanding of the life changes that will occur after surgery.
So that was that. Not as intimidating as I thought!
Once I got back with the doctor, she set me up on a computer to answer about 170 true or false questions. I love filling shit out, so I was all over this! Some of the questions were interesting, all were only a sentence long, and some were thrown in to make sure you were paying attention. I answered truthfully and for the most part, swiftly, however, there were a few that I had to think hard about which way I leaned more on the answer.
Once I was done with the computer test, there were a couple other tests that asked me how I had been feeling for the last one or two weeks, respectively.
After I completed all of the testing, which took approximately 20-30 minutes, I met with the doctor in her office. She asked me a bunch of questions. We talked about why I chose the vertical sleeve gastrectomy over gastric bypass. She asked me about my support system, about what changes I was making in advance of the surgery and checked my understanding of the life changes that will occur after surgery.
So that was that. Not as intimidating as I thought!
Saturday, February 22, 2014
Upper GI & Chest Images
Yesterday I got to check off two more items from my long to do list.
I started with the chest x-rays. I just had to lift my shirt up and she put some warm jelly on my abdomen. She made me hold my breath a few times for 10-20 seconds at a time and move on my sides so she could get images captured of my kidney, spleen, gall bladder, liver etc.
Then I had the upper GI series. For this I had to get into a gown and do shots of powder alka seltzer with a chaser of water. :) Once I did that to avoid upset stomach, I had to drink about 5 large sips/gulps of a barium sulfate compound which didn't taste as bad as I thought it would. It was a bit chalky. The two men that did the pictures made me turn over a couple times on the bed -- a full 360 degrees, so that the barium fully coated all sides of my stomach.
When I left I was advised to drink 6 to 8 glasses of water to flush out the barium and that my poop would be white/chalky for the next few days.
Later on in the afternoon around 3 PM I thought I had to pee really bad, so bad it hurt, but after I relieved myself, the pain still subsided for much of the evening. I think it was just mild cramps related to the barium, but apparently cramps are a rare side effect.
I was fine this morning.
I started with the chest x-rays. I just had to lift my shirt up and she put some warm jelly on my abdomen. She made me hold my breath a few times for 10-20 seconds at a time and move on my sides so she could get images captured of my kidney, spleen, gall bladder, liver etc.
Then I had the upper GI series. For this I had to get into a gown and do shots of powder alka seltzer with a chaser of water. :) Once I did that to avoid upset stomach, I had to drink about 5 large sips/gulps of a barium sulfate compound which didn't taste as bad as I thought it would. It was a bit chalky. The two men that did the pictures made me turn over a couple times on the bed -- a full 360 degrees, so that the barium fully coated all sides of my stomach.
When I left I was advised to drink 6 to 8 glasses of water to flush out the barium and that my poop would be white/chalky for the next few days.
Later on in the afternoon around 3 PM I thought I had to pee really bad, so bad it hurt, but after I relieved myself, the pain still subsided for much of the evening. I think it was just mild cramps related to the barium, but apparently cramps are a rare side effect.
I was fine this morning.
Monday, February 17, 2014
Blood Panel + EKG and PAP!
So today I got a few things accomplished and "checked" off my list of things to do before I can have surgery.
This morning I went down to Baptist and got my blood drawn plus had an EKG which took all of 10 seconds or so. I loved the guy that drew my blood, Teddy G. I asked him if his last name was Graham. Hehe. He got it on the first try and the EKG took longer to set up than the test took once it was ready to go.
After I was done I went over to see Hope in the Bariatric office to get my next three appointments changed. I counted the days between my February and March appointments and it was only 27 days in between. From what I have read online and even Hope had mentioned before that the insurance likes to see 30 days in between appointment dates.
Later this afternoon I went over to West Florida to Dr. Mehta for my annual PAP. I really like him so much. He makes me feel at ease and doesn't mind dumb/weird questions. He is awesome. Although they took me back in a reasonable amount of time after my 1:45 appointment time, I waited in the room for almost 30 minutes. Kind of annoying, but oh well. I was on my own time.
I can't keep thinking about all the changes to my life, my health, my WARDROBE. :D I have certain shirts that are going to fit me for a while as I lose, and then I expect them to look ridiculous on me. Once I get to my "goal weight" (whatever that is), I'm going to buy some expensive Miss Me jeans because I love the back pocket designs and want to draw attention to my rear! Just kidding. Psych! Anyhow, every time I go out shopping -- we went to the outlet stores in Foley this weekend -- I have to tell myself NOT to buy any clothes because it will be a waste of money. I really want to start visiting thrift stores to start building my wardrobe up at smaller sizes, but it makes more sense to do that when I can actually try things on instead of assuming a certain size of ANYTHING is going to look perfect on me. I am having trouble holding back.
I did recently order a sample pack of protein shake mixes from Unjury, which is the sample I got from my nutritionist. I liked the vanilla flavor, so now I'll be able to try a few others. I am also going to order a 64 oz container that will hold the water I need to drink everyday and I'm going to start using it pre-op to get used to that quantity. It's an expensive container that I found on Amazon that keeps the contents cold for days (if ice is added)....but since it doesn't have a handle, I'll probably just pour the cold water into a Tervis tumbler. Seems silly, but at least I will be able to tell how much I have left to drink and not have to guess on how many ounces I really got in.
So that is all! My next appointment is on Friday for an upper GI and chest ultrasound at Baptist on University and Nine Mile. Then comes the very scary psych appointment a week from tomorrow. Will report on those next!
This morning I went down to Baptist and got my blood drawn plus had an EKG which took all of 10 seconds or so. I loved the guy that drew my blood, Teddy G. I asked him if his last name was Graham. Hehe. He got it on the first try and the EKG took longer to set up than the test took once it was ready to go.
After I was done I went over to see Hope in the Bariatric office to get my next three appointments changed. I counted the days between my February and March appointments and it was only 27 days in between. From what I have read online and even Hope had mentioned before that the insurance likes to see 30 days in between appointment dates.
Later this afternoon I went over to West Florida to Dr. Mehta for my annual PAP. I really like him so much. He makes me feel at ease and doesn't mind dumb/weird questions. He is awesome. Although they took me back in a reasonable amount of time after my 1:45 appointment time, I waited in the room for almost 30 minutes. Kind of annoying, but oh well. I was on my own time.
I can't keep thinking about all the changes to my life, my health, my WARDROBE. :D I have certain shirts that are going to fit me for a while as I lose, and then I expect them to look ridiculous on me. Once I get to my "goal weight" (whatever that is), I'm going to buy some expensive Miss Me jeans because I love the back pocket designs and want to draw attention to my rear! Just kidding. Psych! Anyhow, every time I go out shopping -- we went to the outlet stores in Foley this weekend -- I have to tell myself NOT to buy any clothes because it will be a waste of money. I really want to start visiting thrift stores to start building my wardrobe up at smaller sizes, but it makes more sense to do that when I can actually try things on instead of assuming a certain size of ANYTHING is going to look perfect on me. I am having trouble holding back.
I did recently order a sample pack of protein shake mixes from Unjury, which is the sample I got from my nutritionist. I liked the vanilla flavor, so now I'll be able to try a few others. I am also going to order a 64 oz container that will hold the water I need to drink everyday and I'm going to start using it pre-op to get used to that quantity. It's an expensive container that I found on Amazon that keeps the contents cold for days (if ice is added)....but since it doesn't have a handle, I'll probably just pour the cold water into a Tervis tumbler. Seems silly, but at least I will be able to tell how much I have left to drink and not have to guess on how many ounces I really got in.
So that is all! My next appointment is on Friday for an upper GI and chest ultrasound at Baptist on University and Nine Mile. Then comes the very scary psych appointment a week from tomorrow. Will report on those next!
Wednesday, February 12, 2014
Nutritionist Consult #3
I weighed in at 245 -- gained 2 lbs since last visit. Ugh.
I am not as worried about the gain(s) as I was before now that Nurse Jennifer said that she's never seen an insurance denial because someone had gained weight. Plus she asked me if Dr. G told me I had to lose weight before surgery (he did not) because sometimes he asks patients to lose a percentage, or in one ladies' specific case, 50 lbs. before surgery.
Ashton and I went over how I did with last month's goals. I admitted (again) that I hadn't walked any. However, I was more aware of my fried food intake and gave up soda completely. Which I am proud of!
This month's goals: Walk 3 times a week for 20 minutes, do not drink with dinner, keep a food journal, and I forget the 4th.
She gave me an Unjury brand sample of vanilla protein shake and I made it for breakfast Tuesday morning. It tasted ok but I needed to have blended it a lot better -- didn't like the chunks of powder even though I shook the shit out my Tervis.
Oh I just remembered my 4th goal: to only have high calorie sweets ONCE a week. I already screwed that one up and it's only Wednesday.
Tomorrow I go see a psychic I've been wanting to see. We have a one hour one on one session and I am looking forward to hearing what she has to tell me.
Before I left the bariatric office, Hope made my last three NUT appointments and then she also made my one hour appointment with Ashton (the NUT) where she will do a "writeup" for the insurance company submission for surgery approval.
Hope said that as long as I get everything checked off the list and insurance comes back in about a week, I should be scheduled for surgery as early as late May to early June. Just in time for my 37th birthday.
I am too excited!
I am not as worried about the gain(s) as I was before now that Nurse Jennifer said that she's never seen an insurance denial because someone had gained weight. Plus she asked me if Dr. G told me I had to lose weight before surgery (he did not) because sometimes he asks patients to lose a percentage, or in one ladies' specific case, 50 lbs. before surgery.
Ashton and I went over how I did with last month's goals. I admitted (again) that I hadn't walked any. However, I was more aware of my fried food intake and gave up soda completely. Which I am proud of!
This month's goals: Walk 3 times a week for 20 minutes, do not drink with dinner, keep a food journal, and I forget the 4th.
She gave me an Unjury brand sample of vanilla protein shake and I made it for breakfast Tuesday morning. It tasted ok but I needed to have blended it a lot better -- didn't like the chunks of powder even though I shook the shit out my Tervis.
Oh I just remembered my 4th goal: to only have high calorie sweets ONCE a week. I already screwed that one up and it's only Wednesday.
Tomorrow I go see a psychic I've been wanting to see. We have a one hour one on one session and I am looking forward to hearing what she has to tell me.
Before I left the bariatric office, Hope made my last three NUT appointments and then she also made my one hour appointment with Ashton (the NUT) where she will do a "writeup" for the insurance company submission for surgery approval.
Hope said that as long as I get everything checked off the list and insurance comes back in about a week, I should be scheduled for surgery as early as late May to early June. Just in time for my 37th birthday.
I am too excited!
Sunday, February 9, 2014
Can't Believe I'm Halfway Done
Tomorrow will be my 3rd of 6 nutritionist appointments! My last one will be in early May. I am hoping that come my 4th appointment they will "pencil in" my surgery date so I can start the countdown!
If I have my surgery in earlyish June, I hope to be 60 pounds down by the end of the year...or approx. 180 lbs. That's probably a size 12, right? I mean....at 205 I was squeezing into a size of 12 jeans I have in my closet. Surely an additional 25 lbs. would get me in them comfortably. Oh, to dream...
Speaking of clothing, I found a brand new sized 14 business suit in my closet today that still has the tags on it. My mom got it for me one Christmas years ago because I was losing weight and that was my next size down. I never have gotten into it. Maybe this fall I will.
Went to Kohl's yesterday to look for something to wear to a wedding but found absolutely no dresses that would cover my legs. So I ended up getting a size large cardigan to wear over a dress I already own. Should've gotten an extra large because I had to push my arms in it and stretch it out.
I did see a few cute things at Kohl's that I was tempted to buy to put in my "future closet" but I am refraining for now. Mainly because I really don't know what size I'll be when I get to my goal weight. And I don't want to spend the money.
Rich and I are planning to book our trip to Ireland soon. We're going at the end of September to celebrate our 15th wedding anniversary. If my surgery is in June, by the end of September I'll be about 3 months post-op, so I should be eating regular foods, just not much of anything. Dublin sight seeing is going to require LOTS of walking, so I am looking forward to having built in exercise during my vacation! Rich keeps bringing up food and how I won't be eating much but I don't think it is a big deal. I may be able to have a taste of things here and there but I won't be able to have a pint of Guinness (or any alcohol for that matter). Food doesn't make a vacation, right?
If I have my surgery in earlyish June, I hope to be 60 pounds down by the end of the year...or approx. 180 lbs. That's probably a size 12, right? I mean....at 205 I was squeezing into a size of 12 jeans I have in my closet. Surely an additional 25 lbs. would get me in them comfortably. Oh, to dream...
Speaking of clothing, I found a brand new sized 14 business suit in my closet today that still has the tags on it. My mom got it for me one Christmas years ago because I was losing weight and that was my next size down. I never have gotten into it. Maybe this fall I will.
Went to Kohl's yesterday to look for something to wear to a wedding but found absolutely no dresses that would cover my legs. So I ended up getting a size large cardigan to wear over a dress I already own. Should've gotten an extra large because I had to push my arms in it and stretch it out.
I did see a few cute things at Kohl's that I was tempted to buy to put in my "future closet" but I am refraining for now. Mainly because I really don't know what size I'll be when I get to my goal weight. And I don't want to spend the money.
Rich and I are planning to book our trip to Ireland soon. We're going at the end of September to celebrate our 15th wedding anniversary. If my surgery is in June, by the end of September I'll be about 3 months post-op, so I should be eating regular foods, just not much of anything. Dublin sight seeing is going to require LOTS of walking, so I am looking forward to having built in exercise during my vacation! Rich keeps bringing up food and how I won't be eating much but I don't think it is a big deal. I may be able to have a taste of things here and there but I won't be able to have a pint of Guinness (or any alcohol for that matter). Food doesn't make a vacation, right?
Thursday, January 30, 2014
Esophagogastroduodenoscopy...AKA Endoscopy
Upper endoscopy, also called esophagogastroduodenoscopy, or EGD, is a procedure in which a thin scope with a light and camera at its tip is used to look inside of the upper digestive tract -- the esophagus, stomach, and first part of the small intestine, called the duodenum.
Yesterday was my mine...one of the many appointments I had to check off my list of things to do before I can have my sleeve surgery.
Of course it was scheduled on the day Pensacola had an ice storm and it was treacherous riding to the hospital. I'm glad they didn't cancel it though; despite having been on reduced ops at work and missing a "snow day".
We got there early around 8:10 AM and my doctor was super late because of the distance he had to travel to the hospital. The anesthesiologist and nurses were really great and I loved the way they treated us.
When I finally got to the operating room, they administered the knock out drugs and before I knew it, I was waking up, groggy as hell. I was glad that I didn't throw up or have issues; however, Rich told me later that they had to give me "extra" because I was "fighting" the scope. Dr. G told Rich that he biopsied my hiatal hernia while he was there.
I was discharged around 12:30 and super hungry. We stopped at Waffle House for food, then I went to bed when I got home around 1 and slept until 5. By 7:15 PM I was ready to go back to bed and slept until 5 AM.
I think the most uncomfortable part of it all was getting the IV straw in my hand. It's still sore to tap. So... all in all, no big deal. I was a little surprised that I won't get my results until the end of February. Glad I called today to get an appointment.
Yesterday was my mine...one of the many appointments I had to check off my list of things to do before I can have my sleeve surgery.
Of course it was scheduled on the day Pensacola had an ice storm and it was treacherous riding to the hospital. I'm glad they didn't cancel it though; despite having been on reduced ops at work and missing a "snow day".
We got there early around 8:10 AM and my doctor was super late because of the distance he had to travel to the hospital. The anesthesiologist and nurses were really great and I loved the way they treated us.
When I finally got to the operating room, they administered the knock out drugs and before I knew it, I was waking up, groggy as hell. I was glad that I didn't throw up or have issues; however, Rich told me later that they had to give me "extra" because I was "fighting" the scope. Dr. G told Rich that he biopsied my hiatal hernia while he was there.
I was discharged around 12:30 and super hungry. We stopped at Waffle House for food, then I went to bed when I got home around 1 and slept until 5. By 7:15 PM I was ready to go back to bed and slept until 5 AM.
I think the most uncomfortable part of it all was getting the IV straw in my hand. It's still sore to tap. So... all in all, no big deal. I was a little surprised that I won't get my results until the end of February. Glad I called today to get an appointment.
Measurements #1
Neck 15"
Arms 17.75"
Breast 45.5"
Stomach 43"
Butt 51"
Thigh 31"
Calf 19.5"
Needless to say, I broke out into tears after Rich helped me get these measurements. I can't believe my arms are bigger than my neck.
Arms 17.75"
Breast 45.5"
Stomach 43"
Butt 51"
Thigh 31"
Calf 19.5"
Needless to say, I broke out into tears after Rich helped me get these measurements. I can't believe my arms are bigger than my neck.
Sunday, January 12, 2014
Nutritionist Consult #2 + Met the Doc!
Friday was my 2nd meeting, but first I weighed in with Jennifer the Nurse. I had gained 2-3 lbs or so since last month, but easily done over the holidays. I was actually surprised it wasn't higher.
So Nurse Jennifer was pretty awesome. I really like her. She's 5 years post-op (RNY). She asked me at one point what's my proof in the pudding. I didn't get what she was asking, so she rephrased in plain English: "What will really make you happy, Jamie?" My reply was, "To get off all those meds." Then she said, "Yes, but what will really make you happy?" I replied: "To lose weight." She said, "Have you lost weight before?", to which I replied, "Yes, many times over..." Jennifer: "Then what will REALLY make you happy?", and my reply: "To keep it off." And she says, "Then that's what we'll work on and and I can help you get there."
That was the best conversation I've had in a long time and deep down inside it made my heart do little backflips of joy.
On to my Dr. Gatmaitan meeting. It was a little strange to me that he showed me texts from his former patients on his iPhone -- before and after pics, but neat nonetheless. We decided on doing the sleeve. He did say he expects me to lose a little weight before my surgery or maintain, but definitely for the scale NOT going up each month. I had a long list of questions to ask him. He did say I can expect to gain a lot of energy after surgery and sleep better, too. My pre-op diet is a week on clear liquids, then the poop cleaner outter (official name is "bowel prep") the day before (I should take off work this day!!). He said he writes the return to work note for 3 weeks after surgery, but depending on how I'm feeling and how convincing I can be, it could be just 2 weeks. I am thinking I'm going to go for the 3 weeks for sure. I'll have the leave and plus week 3 will be covered 75% pay via STD, so I wouldn't have to use much leave during that 3rd week to supplement. He is going to order a sleep study for me, so I will likely have a CPAP in the next few months. Not looking forward to all the appointments that will require, but I know in the end I will probably be sleeping better and waking up more refreshed.
On to Dietician Ashton. She was pleased that I kept a food journal for 7-10 days. I admitted that I didn't walk once and that was one of my goals. She didn't seem too annoyed. I also sucked at decreasing my soda intake because I realized I drank more than I thought I did. For next month, my goals are to keep a food journal daily, cut soda out COMPLETELY (I said I would once I ran out of my 8 cans or so I have left in my fridge), walk 20-30 minutes 3 days a week, and decrease fried foods to twice a week. I won't be able to eat fried foods after surgery (well, for at least a year or more) so I have to get out of the habit!!
I have a ton of tests that I have to get done or will get done prior to surgery -- some of them will be scheduled soon, for example, on 1/29 I have an endoscopy where they will put me under and put a scope down my throat to look around and make sure I don't have an ulcer or any weird stuff going on. Rich has to go with me that day to drive me home. The other tests that are coming are a GI series, a chest image/x-ray, and a complete blood panel. I also have to get my pap smear done and eventually have a psych eval!
Next Nutritionist appointment is on Monday, 10 February. Can't believe it'll be #3 and half way done! I think Alisha mentioned that her sister's surgery date got tentatively scheduled when she went to her 4th appointment. I did ask Nurse Jennifer about when surgery will be "tentatively scheduled" and she didn't really give me a straight answer but said it wouldn't be months waiting after my last nutritionist appointment.
So Nurse Jennifer was pretty awesome. I really like her. She's 5 years post-op (RNY). She asked me at one point what's my proof in the pudding. I didn't get what she was asking, so she rephrased in plain English: "What will really make you happy, Jamie?" My reply was, "To get off all those meds." Then she said, "Yes, but what will really make you happy?" I replied: "To lose weight." She said, "Have you lost weight before?", to which I replied, "Yes, many times over..." Jennifer: "Then what will REALLY make you happy?", and my reply: "To keep it off." And she says, "Then that's what we'll work on and and I can help you get there."
That was the best conversation I've had in a long time and deep down inside it made my heart do little backflips of joy.
On to my Dr. Gatmaitan meeting. It was a little strange to me that he showed me texts from his former patients on his iPhone -- before and after pics, but neat nonetheless. We decided on doing the sleeve. He did say he expects me to lose a little weight before my surgery or maintain, but definitely for the scale NOT going up each month. I had a long list of questions to ask him. He did say I can expect to gain a lot of energy after surgery and sleep better, too. My pre-op diet is a week on clear liquids, then the poop cleaner outter (official name is "bowel prep") the day before (I should take off work this day!!). He said he writes the return to work note for 3 weeks after surgery, but depending on how I'm feeling and how convincing I can be, it could be just 2 weeks. I am thinking I'm going to go for the 3 weeks for sure. I'll have the leave and plus week 3 will be covered 75% pay via STD, so I wouldn't have to use much leave during that 3rd week to supplement. He is going to order a sleep study for me, so I will likely have a CPAP in the next few months. Not looking forward to all the appointments that will require, but I know in the end I will probably be sleeping better and waking up more refreshed.
On to Dietician Ashton. She was pleased that I kept a food journal for 7-10 days. I admitted that I didn't walk once and that was one of my goals. She didn't seem too annoyed. I also sucked at decreasing my soda intake because I realized I drank more than I thought I did. For next month, my goals are to keep a food journal daily, cut soda out COMPLETELY (I said I would once I ran out of my 8 cans or so I have left in my fridge), walk 20-30 minutes 3 days a week, and decrease fried foods to twice a week. I won't be able to eat fried foods after surgery (well, for at least a year or more) so I have to get out of the habit!!
I have a ton of tests that I have to get done or will get done prior to surgery -- some of them will be scheduled soon, for example, on 1/29 I have an endoscopy where they will put me under and put a scope down my throat to look around and make sure I don't have an ulcer or any weird stuff going on. Rich has to go with me that day to drive me home. The other tests that are coming are a GI series, a chest image/x-ray, and a complete blood panel. I also have to get my pap smear done and eventually have a psych eval!
Next Nutritionist appointment is on Monday, 10 February. Can't believe it'll be #3 and half way done! I think Alisha mentioned that her sister's surgery date got tentatively scheduled when she went to her 4th appointment. I did ask Nurse Jennifer about when surgery will be "tentatively scheduled" and she didn't really give me a straight answer but said it wouldn't be months waiting after my last nutritionist appointment.
Thursday, January 9, 2014
2014 is Going to be MY YEAR
My year to get healthier
My year to get off of heartburn, cholesterol and high blood pressure pills
My year to shop for new clothes
My year to cross my legs effortlessly
My year to sleep better and wake up refreshed
My year to stop drinking carbonated drinks
My year to buy knee high boots
My year to turn heads
My year to get excited about dressing every morning
My year to buy shorts, size 12 jeans, and medium shirts
My year to make walking a habit
My year to have more sex
My year to love myself again
I joined some WLS groups on FB and have seen a lot of before and after pictures. I've read a lot of comments -- some are laced with frustration, some are non-scale victories (NSV), some are from people that are pre-op, some post-op, some just days out, some many years out...there are men, there are women, near and far, all sharing their experiences on every topic, no holds barred. Some have made me tear up thinking about how I will feel a year from today.
Tomorrow is my next appointment - #2 of 6. I am closer. I am excited. I want to fast forward but take time to absorb everything I can possibly learn and teach myself, habits to break, new habits to make.
I will also meet Dr. Gatmaitan one on one. We will discuss all of the types of surgeries and determine which one is best for me. I am leaning towards a sleeve gastrostomy ("the sleeve")and have a dozen questions to ask.
I still worry I won't be approved. I still worry I will be just as heavy at the end of 2014. I get my hopes up, start daydreaming, envisioning my new self. But I still worry.
My year to get off of heartburn, cholesterol and high blood pressure pills
My year to shop for new clothes
My year to cross my legs effortlessly
My year to sleep better and wake up refreshed
My year to stop drinking carbonated drinks
My year to buy knee high boots
My year to turn heads
My year to get excited about dressing every morning
My year to buy shorts, size 12 jeans, and medium shirts
My year to make walking a habit
My year to have more sex
My year to love myself again
I joined some WLS groups on FB and have seen a lot of before and after pictures. I've read a lot of comments -- some are laced with frustration, some are non-scale victories (NSV), some are from people that are pre-op, some post-op, some just days out, some many years out...there are men, there are women, near and far, all sharing their experiences on every topic, no holds barred. Some have made me tear up thinking about how I will feel a year from today.
Tomorrow is my next appointment - #2 of 6. I am closer. I am excited. I want to fast forward but take time to absorb everything I can possibly learn and teach myself, habits to break, new habits to make.
I will also meet Dr. Gatmaitan one on one. We will discuss all of the types of surgeries and determine which one is best for me. I am leaning towards a sleeve gastrostomy ("the sleeve")and have a dozen questions to ask.
I still worry I won't be approved. I still worry I will be just as heavy at the end of 2014. I get my hopes up, start daydreaming, envisioning my new self. But I still worry.
Sunday, December 29, 2013
A Year From Now
I wish I could peek into my future -- a year from today -- and see what life will be like 5-6 months after surgery.
It seems every day I find myself thinking, "I can't wait until I'm skinnier"....and I daydream about how much different, how much better I'll feel and how much easier it will be to get dressed, to work out, to be me.
Every day after work, and on most recent weekends, I have been so so lazy, almost lethargic -- just no energy to do anything other than sleep or sit on the couch and watch TV. I am hoping once I get healthier that I will have a lot more energy after work and on the weekend.
In a year from now -- 12/29/2014 -- I hope to be below 200 lbs...so a loss of around 40 lbs would be amazing. I remember what it felt like to be about 200 and although that is still 50 lbs overweight, I felt great!
I make lists in my head about what won't fit anymore when I lose all my weight. I'll have to get my rings sized down, all of my beautiful shoes may not fit anymore, all of my clothes will be too baggy to look right at all. I'll have to buy new bras and panties (darn!), and I will be more comfortable in airplane seats. I have read that my hair may fall out some, so I have some biotin coming in the mail to start now. Hey I don't mind if my hair gets longer!
It seems every day I find myself thinking, "I can't wait until I'm skinnier"....and I daydream about how much different, how much better I'll feel and how much easier it will be to get dressed, to work out, to be me.
Every day after work, and on most recent weekends, I have been so so lazy, almost lethargic -- just no energy to do anything other than sleep or sit on the couch and watch TV. I am hoping once I get healthier that I will have a lot more energy after work and on the weekend.
In a year from now -- 12/29/2014 -- I hope to be below 200 lbs...so a loss of around 40 lbs would be amazing. I remember what it felt like to be about 200 and although that is still 50 lbs overweight, I felt great!
I make lists in my head about what won't fit anymore when I lose all my weight. I'll have to get my rings sized down, all of my beautiful shoes may not fit anymore, all of my clothes will be too baggy to look right at all. I'll have to buy new bras and panties (darn!), and I will be more comfortable in airplane seats. I have read that my hair may fall out some, so I have some biotin coming in the mail to start now. Hey I don't mind if my hair gets longer!
Friday, December 6, 2013
Doctor Appointment!
My appointment with Dr. Gatmaitan is set for the same day as my 2nd nutritional appointment on 1/10/2014. I'm excited! During this appointment I will be talking with the doctor about the various surgeries and then decide which one I want. I'd like to learn more about the sleeve as opposed to gastric bypass. When I spoke to Amber about being qualified for insurance to cover the surgery, she said that although they do look at a 3 year history, they look at the whole picture vs. one (lower) weight. Also, she mentioned that the doctor would fight for me in the sense that he can/will provide the insurance company with his recommendation for surgery for me and why.
I guess I am still worried that I will be turned down. Especially because I distributed all the cash in my savings account to 10 different accounts and paid them off. :)
I'm struggling a bit with my "goals" -- I ate breakfast more than I normally do this week but I haven't walked at all yet. And I have had lots of soda. Hmmm. Maybe next week will be better?
I guess I am still worried that I will be turned down. Especially because I distributed all the cash in my savings account to 10 different accounts and paid them off. :)
I'm struggling a bit with my "goals" -- I ate breakfast more than I normally do this week but I haven't walked at all yet. And I have had lots of soda. Hmmm. Maybe next week will be better?
Tuesday, December 3, 2013
Breakfast, Paperwork, and $26K
Today was the first day working on my goals. I ate breakfast: yogurt, granola, strawberries, blueberries a little honey, raisins, craisins, slivered almonds, and a teeny bit of brown sugar. Later I had a banana and lunch was a salad I ate 60% of. We had an ice cream social today and boy, I didn't hold back. Ice cream is a weakness. For dinner I had buffalo chicken dip with scoops tortilla chips, then a Jello pudding for a snack later.
Didn't walk today but I should have -- it was a beautiful evening.
I did spend a lot of time watching TV while I filled out the paperwork that Baptist sent me -- it's lengthy! I am 100% sure that I will be referred for a sleep study -- I'm sure I have sleep apnea, but I really don't want to wear one of those CPAP machines like Rich. I just see them as being so uncomfortable.
It was my best friend Michelle's idea to buy an outfit I will wear somewhere down the road. I was thinking of what I'd want to wear and I really love the idea of a semi-form fitting work dress with high boots, a scarf...size 12 preferably. :) I'm not sure I'm ready to buy it yet -- and certainly not from online -- I really want to SEE it in person and know it is meant for me.
I'm afraid to buy anymore shoes at this point (although I have a pair coming in the mail as I type) because I heard my shoe size may change. Boo! Hiss! I have dozens of shoes and would be very sad if I couldn't wear most of them. But oh well!
I am so tempted to pay off debt with the $26K sitting in my savings account. I am doing a lot of "what if" thinking and what if I don't get approved for surgery? Then I won't have the money to pay for it on my own if I send it to different loans and creditors now. But then if I go ahead and pay down a shitload of debt, I will look a lot better to NFCU in 6 months if I have to apply for a $26K loan, right? Rich thinks that amount for a signature loan is steep with my salary, but why would they have just given me $12,500 if they didn't think I could pay the loan? And to be honest, that new loan will be really stretching me.
I think I'm talking myself into it, but hating to lose my "safety net". I've NEVER had that much money sitting in my savings!
Monday, December 2, 2013
Nutritionist Consult #1
Today was my official first consult with Ashton. Before I met with her, though, Jennifer the Nurse got my weight, height, and BP. My "official" BMI is 41.
Of course that number is horrible, but I am THRILLED that I am over 40 because then I should qualify for surgery without a comorbidity (even though I have one - high BP controlled by meds).
Ashton the Nutritionist met with me next. We talked about which surgery I thought I might want and about my current eating habits and exercise routine.
She wanted to know what a typical day would be like for my meals and what level of activity I have. She answered some questions I had and then we came up with a few goals to work on until the next time I see her on 01/10/2014. Here are my goals:
1. Eat breakfast every day
2. Walk 30 minutes at least 3 times a week
3. Decrease soda to 1 can per day
4. Keep a food journal for 5-7 days
I think these are realistic goals and I am glad she didn't suggest losing a certain amount of weight -- I think that may happen naturally though.
At the check out desk as I was making my next appointment, Dr. Gatlaitan walked by and said I looked familiar -- I'm glad he remembered me from the Meet the Doctor session last week!
I think I may go to another session or two in the coming months as well. Lastly, because I want to completely embarrass myself (I sure hope no one I know finds this blog!), I am including my before photos at 241 lbs (according to nurse, but I am really about 233 without clothing!)...
Of course that number is horrible, but I am THRILLED that I am over 40 because then I should qualify for surgery without a comorbidity (even though I have one - high BP controlled by meds).
Ashton the Nutritionist met with me next. We talked about which surgery I thought I might want and about my current eating habits and exercise routine.
She wanted to know what a typical day would be like for my meals and what level of activity I have. She answered some questions I had and then we came up with a few goals to work on until the next time I see her on 01/10/2014. Here are my goals:
1. Eat breakfast every day
2. Walk 30 minutes at least 3 times a week
3. Decrease soda to 1 can per day
4. Keep a food journal for 5-7 days
I think these are realistic goals and I am glad she didn't suggest losing a certain amount of weight -- I think that may happen naturally though.
At the check out desk as I was making my next appointment, Dr. Gatlaitan walked by and said I looked familiar -- I'm glad he remembered me from the Meet the Doctor session last week!
I think I may go to another session or two in the coming months as well. Lastly, because I want to completely embarrass myself (I sure hope no one I know finds this blog!), I am including my before photos at 241 lbs (according to nurse, but I am really about 233 without clothing!)...
Blog name background
I wanted a snazzy blog title and asked my husband what I should call it. His first answer: "My Weight Loss Journey".......GAH! How B-O-R-I-N-G! I was thinking of something like "Health over Hardee's" except I don't eat at Hardee's. Aaaaand....I couldn't think of a bad food that starts with "H"......
Husband threw out a 2nd suggestion -- Less Cookie, More Nookie. I asked him to explain himself. He says, "If you weigh less, you'll have more energy for more nookie!"
And so it was born.
Husband threw out a 2nd suggestion -- Less Cookie, More Nookie. I asked him to explain himself. He says, "If you weigh less, you'll have more energy for more nookie!"
And so it was born.
Saturday, November 30, 2013
Exploring surgery
My journey officially began Tuesday, November 26th when I attended the monthly "Meet the Doctor" session at Baptist Hospital. Rich came with me and it was definitely informative! After hearing about both surgeries, I am leaning towards gastric bypass for the expected results and least amount of possible complications.
Step two is happening Monday, December 2nd -- my first consultation with the nutritionist, Ashton. I will have to go 5 more times and have a psych evaluation before being scheduled for surgery...which will hopefully be scheduled sometime in June. Since Monday will be my "official" weight and height I am "bulking up" this weekend LOL.
I qualify already with my current weight and height and co-morbidity, but honestly, I'd like to "seal the deal" with insurance paying by having a BMI of 40 or more.
Before I started this blog, I was gathering the money to pay for it myself -- now I do have $26,300 in my savings account that is going to sit there until I am officially approved for surgery and the insurance will pay for it.
I am BEYOND thrilled about what life will be like once I start losing and once I get closer and closer to my goal weight of 145. Shopping will be fun again! Alisha has been a great supporter and friend since she has gone through it herself. I have been watching videos on YouTube of people that have gone through it -- it is always interesting to hear it from actual patients. Can't wait to learn more during the next six months in preparation for surgery.
Step two is happening Monday, December 2nd -- my first consultation with the nutritionist, Ashton. I will have to go 5 more times and have a psych evaluation before being scheduled for surgery...which will hopefully be scheduled sometime in June. Since Monday will be my "official" weight and height I am "bulking up" this weekend LOL.
I qualify already with my current weight and height and co-morbidity, but honestly, I'd like to "seal the deal" with insurance paying by having a BMI of 40 or more.
Before I started this blog, I was gathering the money to pay for it myself -- now I do have $26,300 in my savings account that is going to sit there until I am officially approved for surgery and the insurance will pay for it.
I am BEYOND thrilled about what life will be like once I start losing and once I get closer and closer to my goal weight of 145. Shopping will be fun again! Alisha has been a great supporter and friend since she has gone through it herself. I have been watching videos on YouTube of people that have gone through it -- it is always interesting to hear it from actual patients. Can't wait to learn more during the next six months in preparation for surgery.
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