CAR19
July 21, 2008
I am a high school assistant principal and athletic director. I was a physical education teacher and coach for 17 years, before moving to the administrative side of education. I was a college athlete and was always able to carry a little extra weight because of my athleticism. That didn't last forever, and the "little extra weight" became 50 extra pounds when my life became less active.
I had lap band surgery on May 19, 2008. I have a good friend who had the same procedure done two years ago and I have been able to follow her through the process, see her tremendous results, and learn about it from her.
It has been eight weeks today, and while I thought I would start seeing results sooner, I did not realize the importance of the healing that needs to take place after surgery. That was six weeks of liquids and "mush" foods, before the band was filled. On July 2nd, I had the first band fill - 4.0 ccs - but did not feel much, if any restriction after the first couple days. On July 16th, I got the second fill - 2.4 ccs more - what an instant difference that made! Food choices are absolutely important now...protein first...which fills me up before I can even think about anything else!
I will say, it has been a bigger psychological struggle than I expected. I do not have any regrets, but I did not expect to "miss" food and eating as much as I do. Every day gets a little easier, but I will tell you, it is not a quick and easy fix!
November 8, 2008
Why would I think I would be good at keeping a blog? I have not updated since I started...never was a diary girl when I was younger, but I do like to read others, so I should keep mine updated too!
I am down about 40 pounds total. I I have not had another fill since August. Up until about a month ago, I was losing at a fairly steady rate of 1-2 pounds per month. Last month, my doctor looked at my band under x-ray, and said that my "pouch" had stretched slightly, so he did not want to do a fill. I am hoping when I go back this week, he will give me a small fill. I am not feeling much restriction, my weight has plateaued, and I don't want to go into the holidays with this much "freedom!"
I am starting back with my weights and cardio this week! I had been doing so well before school started and then got so busy (AKA excuse) at school that I have not been consistent at all. But I worked out with my trainer today so that should kick start my workouts again. I am a high school assistant principal and athletic director, so this month is "lighter" on the usual night duties!
I hope all of you are doing great! I use the posts and message board a lot....great way to gain information, ask and answer questions, and help others with similar concerns or successes!
December 7, 2008
I haven't updated this in awhile...I blog on the OH Lap Band Forum, and forget to go to my own profile! Actually, there really is not much new in the weight loss journey. For reasons I don't really understand, I have plateaued for the last month or so, and have not lost any weight. I think I am losing inches, as clothes are fitting differently, so I guess that is okay. I decided if I can make it through the holidays without gaining, that is better than my track record in year's past!
I have been so happy with the results so far. I feel better and enjoy the compliments from friends and colleagues. I finally told my family about my surgery when one of my sisters asked how I had lost my weight. That was in October and that must have been a jinx....because it was about that time that I quit losing!
I have not had a fill since early August...I think I need another, but the doctor doesn't, and he knows! So I am just being patient and trying to follow the band rules.
Good luck to others considering this procedure. I would encourage you to join the OH forums, post and respond to questions...I have learned so much!
Happy Holidays!
January 4, 2008
As I have said before, not a good blogger...Inever kept a diary as a kid or a journal as an adult...I don't even make a grocery list! However, I justify not blogging except when there is news for fear it will become white noise rather than earrth shattering....LOL!
I do have to say that my monthly check last week was life changing. My band has slipped and I had to have it completely "unfilled" in hopes it will heal and return to its normal position. This was quite a surprise to me, although I knew something was not right.
I have to wait a month to go back and hope for the best. I am being so careful and following the instructions as directed. I have to eat VERY small portions...more like 3-4 bites...every couple hours...with the same guidelines as if the band was filled.
So....now my patience is being tested....and I don't usually pass those patience tests! But my back is against the wall, and I am determined to do the best I can to stay a bander! I hate the thought of losing this tool forever. I am halfway to my weight loss goal and want to get there eventually.
Please send positive vibes my way!!
