Beth WV Mom
5 Year SurgiVersary!!! 2011
Jul 20, 2011
5 years since 2006--when my life changed 4-ever!!!
5 years since 2006--and I can walk, run, breathe, live, and be ME!!!
5 years since 2006 when all I felt was aches and pain because I was sooooooo fat!
5 years since 2006 when all I could do is sit on the sofa and feel pity for myself. I hated myself and wanted others to hate me, too.
5 years since I began to feel like MMMMEEEEEE!
Sure---it was risky.
Sure---it was scary.
But, dag-gone---I was going to die anyway. I only had this one chance and I did it.
Where did I get the courage? God. Support? God, My husband and son. And, my dad and brother.
Any regrets?
None!!! (about the surgery) well---one, that my mom coulda seen this. So she could have wrapped her arms around my waist and been thrilled at the smile on my face. But, no regrets. None.
5 years.......and I'm still alive. 5 years---it became a new life. I just had to embrace it. And, I did. I've never felt this good in all of my life.
Thanks for reading........
July 2010 4-year SURGiVerS@ry!
Jul 14, 2010
Well, my friends, I have made it to my 4 year SURGI-versary. My surgery was four years ago in Morgantown, WV on July 16, 2006. I can only give credit to God in Heaven for all He has done for me. I could have NOT done this alone. I had a great support system as well. My husband has been very supportive to me; from encouragement to "Hmmm...you ate too much sugar, eh?" He is by my side to help me through it all. Although it has been somewhat a bumpy ride, I have kept the weight off. Although this past spring I put 8 pounds on like in NOTHIN' flat! I was stressed by my son moving out and I guess I ate too many carbs and not enough protein. However, I am still in the best shape of my life and I would highly recommend gastric for those willing to change their own lifestyles. You have to be your own boss and take control of your own life. If you are NOT willing to do that--well, this is not the life you can handle. Sometimes I can eat whatever; however, there are other times I can eat the same thing and be so sick, I think I will die. So, you have to be willing to bear the bad with the good. It's not going to fix every problem you have ever had. Sure, you look great. But, I always end up in the plus size clothing section in the store. My brain HAS NOT CHANGED just because my body has. I have to constantly talk to myself to always do the right things. Sometimes my brain wins and sometimes the selfish side of me wins. But, that li'l pouch that the doctor created is still the ultimate boss. It will turn on me in a second. So, I want to thank ObesityHelp.com for helping me. If it wasn't for this website, I would not have been successful, that is for certain. This website has allowed me to voice my concerns and find out information I would not have been able to find out otherwise. Without the help of it and the countless people going through the same thing as I have endured has allowed me make decisions I needed help with. Sure, my life is better. I am skinnier. I am healthier. And, I am happier. But, it wasn't the "easy" way out. It was something I had to do to live. I now eat to live--I do NOT live to eat anymore. I am blessed way beyond I could ever ask or imagine. God bless you if you are like me and have succeeded. I pray for you if you are dealing with insurances and doctors to get treatment. Being overweight is terrible and deadly. But, you can change it. I am sick of those who say I took the "easy" way out or they lost weight the "natural" way. Well, kiss my big toe because you have never walked in my shoes---EVER! So, don't judge me and the decisions I have made or ever will make.
For those who are eating unhealthy--just consider for a moment what you are putting in your mouth. Some say it is more expensive to eat healthy. But, really--it isn't. You have to make a choice on YOUR own. No one else can make that decision for you. My husband and I made basic changes that has helped us along the way. No Soda►go to water or Crystal light
No carbs►eat more protein
and cut down on the processed foods that turn to sugar.
Eat fruits and Vegetables
Surround yourself with good healthy people who are encouragers. Surround yourself with good books to read (diet books, exercise magazines, etc). Get a Wii Fit and work out everyday. Get yourself off the sofa to start with--and be motivated. Walking outside rather than sitting inside all day is not a bad thing. You just have to make the effort. Believe me, I was there. I was fat, ugly, cranky, and all I wanted to do was think about what I was going to eat next. I was and still am addicted to food. You may be addicted to cigarettes or drugs. Not me, I am totally addicted to the textures and colors of food. But, I am constantly working on my eating habits. So, think about your life and work at being better for you and no one else.
God bless you and I hope that I have encouraged anyone to do the right thing---that is to take care of him/herself better. Thanks for reading and have a great summer.
February 2010
Feb 10, 2010
Well, the Blizzard of 2010 is upon us here in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia! It's nasty outside and we've been housed in here for days! Eating has becoming the norm and I hate it. Although the only bad things I've eaten are a couple chocolate chip cookies. The wind is blowing fiercely here and the snow we received over the weekend (Feb. 5 & 6th: 30 inches) and what we received last night are drifting the roads shut. Schools aren't in session until next Tuesday, Feb. 15th. We are blessed beyond measure that we have our health, heat, roof over our heads, and electricity! I'm so happy I still have internet connection; otherwise, I would be spastic!
Well, February is moving along quickly even if we are getting storms that were meant to be in Alaska. I just stopped by to say hello to everyone. Gastric Bypass is definitely a lifestyle change and it is something you work on daily. You just don't get have it done and then forget about it. I need exercise. I shoveled snow everyday for the past week. So, I'm getting my exercise in. But, I need to get more of a routine in, that's for sure.
Take care and stay warm to everyone out there. This weather will soon pass and warmer temperatures will be upon us. I'm already planning my garden layout for the summer. It's going to be a great time getting out in the heat instead of being in this house. Cabin Fever is definitely getting worse.
Hugs to all of you.
January 2010! I'm back!
Jan 05, 2010
Cheers everyone!
Well, it's been since July that I've been on this site! I miss being here. But...I've been really, really busy.
First off, I went back to college (full-time). I'm keeping the weight off. Yes, it is going on 4 years now and I still feel wonderful. I'm hovering between 165 and 172. My primary doc says she is comfortable with these numbers. I would like to be at the 165 number though. I just feel so much better at that weight.
I'm going back to college and trying to finish a business degree/human resources degree. Hopefully I'll finish in 2 years.
However, the happy news must end here. My son, Cody moved out in October to live with his dad. He turned eighteen and decided to go there because he'd have more freedom. I felt terrible to all of it--even gained some weight because I became a social/emotional eater! UGH! The cycle is soooo vicious!
But, with my husband's support---I am better and looking at it as an opportunity! My husband even got me Wii Fit Plus for Christmas! Years ago, I would have been upset at that type of gift; however, I welcomed it...and I have used it every day and have lost 4 lbs!
My eating is better. I do eat a lot of meats and dairy still. I am not drinking the shakes anymore. I just can't tolerate them.
Other than that...life is wonderful. God is good and I know he brought me this far. I enjoy my life and feel as though I have purpose to be here.
If you're thinking about gastric bypass...it is a HUGE decision. I welcomed the changes. I don't miss those foods I can never eat again. I enjoy looking at my size 10 jeans. (Although I would love to get to a size 8!---it'll happen--in time!)
Take care and love to you all. I hope that you get everything you need for the new year and that things will go better than ever before for you and your family. God Bless!
3rd Surgiversary! July 2009
Jul 15, 2009
Wow...yesterday was my three year surgiversary! I have came a long, long way on my journey. I never thought I'd ever feel like this. I feel wonderful. I remember my bariatric surgeon saying at the initial informational meeting back in the spring of 2006 that if one made it to the third year without gaining weight, then they'd be doing well.
Well, I can say I haven't gained but about 8 lbs. But, I was too thin. I'm doing very, very well. I have so much energy. I have so much life. Back in 2005 or 06, I felt like I could die and would NOT mind it at all. My family and friends probably wouldn't have minded either! I was a sad, sad individual!
There's so much I could tell. But, I know that I have a wonderful life now and I'd do it all again because it was indeed a great experience. Yes, it was painful at first. Yes, it was difficult. Yes, it's terrible not be able to eat the things I would like. But, being thinner is worth all those things!
Being able to walk without breathing hard. Being able to be active all day long. Being able to go to the tanning bed and fit! Being able to ride amusement rides at the park is a plus! My kids look at me differently than before...they don't mind me being around their friends. My husband and I are closer---which is a wonderful thing! My family and friends support through these 3 years were exceptional!
My primary doctor does bloodwork frequently. I'm still on B-12 shots and I try to exercise a couple times a week. I'm under a lot of stress now with my job-but I'm doing well. I eat steak, chicken, and seafood daily. I try to eat yogurt and cottage cheese. I'm not much into the protein shakes much anymore. I drink alot of 1% milk.
Overall, I'm doing great! I would encourage anyone considering this surgery to contemplate their choices and know this is a life-changing lifestyle. You have to live it. You must choose your foods wisely. You must promise yourself to be the best you can be! Working with your doctor and keeping in mind that you have to behave a certain way is what you have to do!
Thanks West Virginia University for taking care of me and giving me a wonderful NEW life!
~~Beth WV Mom~~
0 comments
Well, I can say I haven't gained but about 8 lbs. But, I was too thin. I'm doing very, very well. I have so much energy. I have so much life. Back in 2005 or 06, I felt like I could die and would NOT mind it at all. My family and friends probably wouldn't have minded either! I was a sad, sad individual!
There's so much I could tell. But, I know that I have a wonderful life now and I'd do it all again because it was indeed a great experience. Yes, it was painful at first. Yes, it was difficult. Yes, it's terrible not be able to eat the things I would like. But, being thinner is worth all those things!
Being able to walk without breathing hard. Being able to be active all day long. Being able to go to the tanning bed and fit! Being able to ride amusement rides at the park is a plus! My kids look at me differently than before...they don't mind me being around their friends. My husband and I are closer---which is a wonderful thing! My family and friends support through these 3 years were exceptional!
My primary doctor does bloodwork frequently. I'm still on B-12 shots and I try to exercise a couple times a week. I'm under a lot of stress now with my job-but I'm doing well. I eat steak, chicken, and seafood daily. I try to eat yogurt and cottage cheese. I'm not much into the protein shakes much anymore. I drink alot of 1% milk.
Overall, I'm doing great! I would encourage anyone considering this surgery to contemplate their choices and know this is a life-changing lifestyle. You have to live it. You must choose your foods wisely. You must promise yourself to be the best you can be! Working with your doctor and keeping in mind that you have to behave a certain way is what you have to do!
Thanks West Virginia University for taking care of me and giving me a wonderful NEW life!
~~Beth WV Mom~~
May 2009
May 24, 2009
Well, it's been since November 2008 since I've written or kept up with my profile. I told myself that I would NEVER-ever do that. I would be disgusted with people in the beginning of joining OH because people would keep up with their profiles. Well, here I am doing the same thing. Shame on me!
I'm doing well. I've gained 8 lbs over the winter. My appetite is increasing and I feel terrible because I've allowed it. It's such a shame. So, I've scaled back, contacted my doctor, had some blood-work done. I'll try to remember to update this profile with the results. I believe it's because I've not been eating correctly. Don't shame me...just so busy with new job, and low esteem. I'd like to get plastic surgery--however, the insurance won't cover it.
My son went through a rough accident in January. Snowboarding and he ruptured his spleen. We almost lost him. Thank God he's still alive and doing well. The stress was difficult and I ate. It doesn't help either when you have a boss from 'you know where'. She's unbelievable. Literally. She just doesn't like to tell the truth whatsoever! I think if she could stop being puppets for the ones higher up...the boss would be great. But, no chance of that happening!
Well, I'm going to get off here and get busy. I wanted to say hello to everyone. And that I didn't fall off the face of the earth. I'm still here. I'm still in a size 10...although there are days they're tight. So...I'm working at it again. I will succeed and get this weight back off!
Thanks......keep in touch!
0 comments
I'm doing well. I've gained 8 lbs over the winter. My appetite is increasing and I feel terrible because I've allowed it. It's such a shame. So, I've scaled back, contacted my doctor, had some blood-work done. I'll try to remember to update this profile with the results. I believe it's because I've not been eating correctly. Don't shame me...just so busy with new job, and low esteem. I'd like to get plastic surgery--however, the insurance won't cover it.
My son went through a rough accident in January. Snowboarding and he ruptured his spleen. We almost lost him. Thank God he's still alive and doing well. The stress was difficult and I ate. It doesn't help either when you have a boss from 'you know where'. She's unbelievable. Literally. She just doesn't like to tell the truth whatsoever! I think if she could stop being puppets for the ones higher up...the boss would be great. But, no chance of that happening!
Well, I'm going to get off here and get busy. I wanted to say hello to everyone. And that I didn't fall off the face of the earth. I'm still here. I'm still in a size 10...although there are days they're tight. So...I'm working at it again. I will succeed and get this weight back off!
Thanks......keep in touch!
November 2008
Nov 08, 2008
Well, another month is here. Can you believe that Christmas is coming so soon? I have been working a lot of hours as a school bus trainer. My diet has been stable. I finally got into a size 8 jeans! It's an amazing thing! I have been working out at the fitness center. My husband got me a year's membership at the fitness center for my birthday last month. I really love the water aerobics. It's tiring sometimes to go workout; however, I feel great afterwards. I really like the pool and the treadmill. It's fun when you go there and find someone you know. The workout goes much faster when you have someone to buddy-up with or just talk to during the workout.
I was denied plastic surgery from my insurance, PEIA. They are stickler's for the PS. I need the apron/excess skin on my abdomen taken off. I am so obsessed with the skin and it being flabby. I am constantly finding myself thinking about it and wishing it were easier to get rid of. I am just so upset about the denial. It only took six months to do it. I am constantly having skin infections around the belly button. The excess skin is driving me nuts. I can write an appeal letter. But, it's going to take more doctor appointments with more and more and more documentation. Also, they want to know if I've kept the weight off. I am 165 lbs now. I have lost inches but not anymore weight.
Well, it's times to finish here. Hope everyone is doing well. Good luck and God Speed to all who are awaiting this surgery. It's going on 3 years now...and I would definitely do it ALL over again!
Hugs to everyone. God Bless!
I was denied plastic surgery from my insurance, PEIA. They are stickler's for the PS. I need the apron/excess skin on my abdomen taken off. I am so obsessed with the skin and it being flabby. I am constantly finding myself thinking about it and wishing it were easier to get rid of. I am just so upset about the denial. It only took six months to do it. I am constantly having skin infections around the belly button. The excess skin is driving me nuts. I can write an appeal letter. But, it's going to take more doctor appointments with more and more and more documentation. Also, they want to know if I've kept the weight off. I am 165 lbs now. I have lost inches but not anymore weight.
Well, it's times to finish here. Hope everyone is doing well. Good luck and God Speed to all who are awaiting this surgery. It's going on 3 years now...and I would definitely do it ALL over again!
Hugs to everyone. God Bless!
October 2008
Oct 08, 2008
Well, it's been a few months since my last post. It's been a whirlwind. I've been so busy. My metabolism is outta this world. I'm so blessed by what God has done for me. This sure wasn't easy. And, it's not easy to keep off. I have gained 6 pounds. I'm hating myself right now. But, I have jumped back on the bandwagon. I've joined the fitness center - a year's membership to keep me going. I just need to be more on top of my game in the food department. I have developed some habits. Soda is my number one culprit. So, I've done the best thing I could do....jump back in the 'protein' water and get drenched in what I learned 3 years ago. I know, I know...6 pounds isnt much, but it is a start and I don't want to put more on. So...I'm cutting the soda out (has been almost a week) and I'm 'drying' out. Soda is terrible for me. The caffeine withdrawals have been terrible! So, take my word for it...don't start it and you won't have to stop it.
I'm still in a size 10 jeans. I would like to have plastics; but, the estimates from 2 different doctors are: $6000 at WVU and $10000 at Winchester. Wow...too much pocket change for me to come up with. I wish I could have it done; but, I can't put my family in this strain. I would probably lose another 10 lbs from the excess flab on the front...isn't that terrible?!
My arms and legs aren't that bad. They've actually pulled back in to some degree. I don't mind wearing shorts...but I prefer them to be at knee level.
Another problem I've experienced is UTI's. Urinary Tract Infections. They're terrible. I have been doing cranberry juice, water, antibiotics (now that I went to the doctor) and I'm still having problems. I'm so tired...I don't want to work and I'm so exhausted. Hopefully the meds will start working and I'll feel better!
Well, I need to close. Thanks for reading.
I'm still in a size 10 jeans. I would like to have plastics; but, the estimates from 2 different doctors are: $6000 at WVU and $10000 at Winchester. Wow...too much pocket change for me to come up with. I wish I could have it done; but, I can't put my family in this strain. I would probably lose another 10 lbs from the excess flab on the front...isn't that terrible?!
My arms and legs aren't that bad. They've actually pulled back in to some degree. I don't mind wearing shorts...but I prefer them to be at knee level.
Another problem I've experienced is UTI's. Urinary Tract Infections. They're terrible. I have been doing cranberry juice, water, antibiotics (now that I went to the doctor) and I'm still having problems. I'm so tired...I don't want to work and I'm so exhausted. Hopefully the meds will start working and I'll feel better!
Well, I need to close. Thanks for reading.
July 2008 Surgiversary
Jul 26, 2008
Well, I made it. I made it to my 2 year surgiversary!!!! First off, thank God for giving me the opportunity to have had this surgery and keeping me safe during and after it. Not to mention before it. I'm an advocate for GBS...that's for sure.
I'm currently at 160 and keeping it off. Although, I did gain 5 lbs during vacation at Virginia Beach this year. I ate what I wanted when I wanted it and I paid for it BIG time! This surgery is just a tool. A patient can NEVER EVER NNNNNEEEEEEEVVVVVVEEEEERRRRR
go back to their old habits. It's a terrible thing to do to begin into the old habits of eating bad carbs and sweets and drinking soda. I have to tell myself not to think about that stuff or I would be addicted all over again. I'm convinced that food is addictive just as cigarettes and alcohol and drugs. Food was my drug of choice and I love it and miss it. So, I have to find ways to curb my addiction. It has to be a good thing. For me, it's keeping busy. Scrapbooking in the winter months, gardening in the summer months and working in between. My son is almost 17 now. He's out and about working and staying busy with his friends. I miss him...but I know a 17 year old wants freedom. I remember feeling like that. I think I am sad over him eventually leaving the nest. It's a hard thing to deal with. But, I'm doing the best I can.
Would I have the surgery again? Absolutely, without one single doubt. I'm glad I did it---I just wish I had done it sooner.
Anyway, thanks for looking at my profile. God bless you in your journey and if you're waiting to have surgery....drop me a line and keep informed of your progress. God bless!
I'm currently at 160 and keeping it off. Although, I did gain 5 lbs during vacation at Virginia Beach this year. I ate what I wanted when I wanted it and I paid for it BIG time! This surgery is just a tool. A patient can NEVER EVER NNNNNEEEEEEEVVVVVVEEEEERRRRR
go back to their old habits. It's a terrible thing to do to begin into the old habits of eating bad carbs and sweets and drinking soda. I have to tell myself not to think about that stuff or I would be addicted all over again. I'm convinced that food is addictive just as cigarettes and alcohol and drugs. Food was my drug of choice and I love it and miss it. So, I have to find ways to curb my addiction. It has to be a good thing. For me, it's keeping busy. Scrapbooking in the winter months, gardening in the summer months and working in between. My son is almost 17 now. He's out and about working and staying busy with his friends. I miss him...but I know a 17 year old wants freedom. I remember feeling like that. I think I am sad over him eventually leaving the nest. It's a hard thing to deal with. But, I'm doing the best I can.
Would I have the surgery again? Absolutely, without one single doubt. I'm glad I did it---I just wish I had done it sooner.
Anyway, thanks for looking at my profile. God bless you in your journey and if you're waiting to have surgery....drop me a line and keep informed of your progress. God bless!
February/March 2008
Mar 10, 2008
Hello everyone. Wow...it's March already! I completely missed February. I'm doing ok. I've been depressed a little lately. Don't know why. If I don't soon perk up, I'm going to have to get an appointment with a doctor. Perhaps my nutrition numbers are down. I don't know. All I know is I'm not sleeping well...I feel nasty in the mornings and when I do get to sleep, I feel as though I haven't had any sleep. As I sit here and write this, the more I'm convinced I'd better put a call into the doctor today.
So, how is everyone doing? I miss being on here everyday chatting with everyone. But, my schedule has been so hectic and the internet connection is allowing too many popups for me to enjoy getting online. I have some money saved up to get a laptop...but some things have recently popped up that I may have to use the money for...so, I'm scared to get that laptop. Plus, I wouldn't know what to buy anyway.
Well, on to the reason I'm updating. I'm still at my goal weight. Although I have teeter/tottered a few pounds up and down. I'm not doing enough protein...that's for sure. I drink alot of milk and sugar free crystal light. I'm a frosted miniwheat person right now.
Life is hard right now. It's just so difficult to remember to eat correctly. Surgery doesn't cure the exterior life...it's just a tool to help you lose weight so you can feel better. Physicially, I feel ok. But, I think I just need a break. I'm taking a few days at easter to recoup. Hopefully the time off will do me good.
Speaking of easter...the daffodils are growing. I love those flowers. Easter reminds me so much of my mom who I lost 4 years ago this month. If only she could see me now. It's so tough some days. I wish I could just pick up the phone to call her and talk to her. I miss her more than words could ever say. She would be so proud of me... I know she would.
Well, I need to get off here and get a tissue, the tears are flowing.
Happy Spring....enjoy the new life during this great season. And, say a prayer for me. Life is just hard sometimes.
Beth
So, how is everyone doing? I miss being on here everyday chatting with everyone. But, my schedule has been so hectic and the internet connection is allowing too many popups for me to enjoy getting online. I have some money saved up to get a laptop...but some things have recently popped up that I may have to use the money for...so, I'm scared to get that laptop. Plus, I wouldn't know what to buy anyway.
Well, on to the reason I'm updating. I'm still at my goal weight. Although I have teeter/tottered a few pounds up and down. I'm not doing enough protein...that's for sure. I drink alot of milk and sugar free crystal light. I'm a frosted miniwheat person right now.
Life is hard right now. It's just so difficult to remember to eat correctly. Surgery doesn't cure the exterior life...it's just a tool to help you lose weight so you can feel better. Physicially, I feel ok. But, I think I just need a break. I'm taking a few days at easter to recoup. Hopefully the time off will do me good.
Speaking of easter...the daffodils are growing. I love those flowers. Easter reminds me so much of my mom who I lost 4 years ago this month. If only she could see me now. It's so tough some days. I wish I could just pick up the phone to call her and talk to her. I miss her more than words could ever say. She would be so proud of me... I know she would.
Well, I need to get off here and get a tissue, the tears are flowing.
Happy Spring....enjoy the new life during this great season. And, say a prayer for me. Life is just hard sometimes.
Beth
About Me
Eastern Panhandle, WV
Location
24.9
BMI
Surgery
07/14/2006
Surgery Date
Nov 25, 2005
Member Since
