CaribbeanBrit
A common misunderstanding of gastric bypass surgery is that the pouch causes weight loss because it is so small, the patient eats less. Although that is true for the first six months, that is not how it works. Some doctors have assumed that poor weight loss in some patients is because they arent really trying to lose weight. The truth is it may be because they havent learned how to get the satisfied feeling of being full to last long enough.
2) Weight loss occurs by keeping the pouch tiny through never ever overstuffing or;
3) Weight loss occurs until the pouch gets worn out and regular eating begins or;
4) Weight loss occurs with education on the use of the pouch. PUBLISHED DATA: How does the pouch make you feel full? The nerves tell the brain the pouch is distended and that cuts off hunger with a feeling of fullness. What is the fate of the pouch? Does it enlarge? If it does, is it because the operation was bad, or the patient is overstuffing themselves, or does the pouch actually re-grow in a healing attempt to get back to normal? For ten years, I had patients eat until full with cottage cheese every three months, and report the amount of cottage cheese they were able to eat before feeling full. This gave me an idea of the size of their pouch at three month intervals. I found there was a regular growth in the amount of intake of every single pouch. The average date the pouch stopped growing was two years. After the second year, all pouches stopped growing. Most pouches ended at 6 oz., with some as large at 9-10 ozs. We then compared the weight loss of people with the known pouch size of each person, to see if the pouch size made a difference. In comparing the large pouches to the small pouches, THERE WAS NO DIFFERENCE IN PERCENTAGE OF WEIGHT LOSS AMONG THE PATIENTS. This important fact essentially shows that it is NOT the size of the pouch but how it is used that makes weight loss maintenance possible. OBSERVATIONAL BASED MEDICINE: The information here is taken from surgeons observations as opposed to blind or double blind studies, but it IS based on 33 years of physician observation. Due to lack of insurance coverage for WLS, what originally seemed like a serious lack of patients to observe, turned into an advantage as I was able to follow my patients closely. The following are what I found to effect how the pouch works: 1. Getting a sense of fullness is the basis of successful WLS.
2. Success requires that a small pouch is created with a small outlet.
3. Regular meals larger than 1 ½ cups will result in eventual weight gain.
4. Using the thick, hard to stretch part of the stomach in making the pouch is important.
5. By lightly stretching the pouch with each meal, the pouch send signals to the brain that you need no more food.
6. Maintaining that feeling of fullness requires keeping the pouch stretched for awhile.
7. Almost all patients always feel full 24/7 for the first months, then that feeling disappears.
8. Incredible hunger will develop if there is no food or drink for eight hours.
9. After 1 year, heavier food makes the feeling of fullness last longer.
10. By drinking water as much as possible as fast as possible (water loading), the patient will get a feeling of fullness that lasts 15-25 minutes.
11. By eating soft foods patients will get hungry too soon and be hungry before their next meal, which can cause snacking, thus poor weight loss or weight gain.
12. The patients that follow the rules of the pouch lose their extra weight and keep it off.
13. The patients that lose too much weight can maintain their weight by doing the reverse of the rules of the pouch. HOW DO WE INTERPRET THESE OBSERVATIONS? POUCH SIZE: By following the rules of the pouch, it doesnt matter what size the pouch ends up. The feeling of fullness with 1 ½ cups of food can be achieved. OUTLET SIZE: Regardless of the outlet size, liquidy foods empty faster than solid foods. High calorie liquids will create weight gain. EARLY PROFOUND SATIETY: Before six months, patients much sip water constantly to get in enough water each day, which causes them to always feel full. After six months, about 2/3 of the pouch has grown larger due to the natural healing process. At this time, the patient can drink 1 cup of water at a time. OPTIMUM MATURE POUCH: The pouch works best when the outlet is not too small or too large and the pouch itself holds about 1 ½ cups at a time. IDEAL MEAL PROCESS (rules of the pouch): 1. The patient must time meals five hours apart or the patient will get too hungry in between.
2. The patient needs to eat finely cut meat and raw or slightly cooked veggies with each meal.
3. The patient must eat the entire meal in 5-15 minutes. A 30-45 minute meal will cause failure.
4. No liquids for 1 ½ hours to 2 hours after each meal.
5. After 1 ½ to 2 hours, begin sipping water and over the next three hours slowly increase water intake.
6. 3 hours after last meal, begin drinking LOTS of water/fluids.
7. 15 minutes before the next meal, drink as much as possible as fast as possible. This is called water loading. IF YOU HAVENT BEEN DRINKING OVER THE LAST FEW HOURS, THIS WATER LOADING WILL NOT WORK.
8. You can water load at any time 2-3 hours before your next meal if you get hungry, which will cause a strong feeling of fullness. THE MANAGEMENT OF PATIENT TEACHING AND TRAINING: You must provide information to the patient pre-operatively regarding the fact that the pouch is only a tool: a tool is something that is used to perform a task but is useless if left on a shelf unused. Practice working with a tool makes the tool more effective. NECESSITY FOR LONG TERM FOLLOW-UP: Trying to practice the rules of the pouch before six to 12 months is a waste. Learning how to delay hunger if the patient is never hungry just doesnt work. The real work of learning the rules of the pouch begins after healing has caused hunger to return.
I hope I am doing this right. Well, I am 45 yrs old and have been fighting obesity all of my life. Like may of you I have been on just about all of the most popular diets, form medications that were prescribed to Jenny Craig. not to mention all of the dumb diets that I created for myself......what was I thinking. Anyway my weight went up and down for many years and as I got older it became harder for me to lose weight and the motivation became less and less. I was also told that I had high blood pressure last year and I did not like to hear that at all. Walking became an effort, pain in the knees and ankles and shortness of breath made me feel like I was aging over night. 45 feeling like 65.
I toyed with the idea of having WLS last year but never really was serious about it because my insurance at that time, NPH was not approving the procedure. I found this out by talking with others that were trying to get approved. My insurance changed to HUMANA January 1st 2004 and at that point I thought, this is my opportunity and I need to make a decision. I did, and it was really smooth sailing from the time my PCP authorized the surgeons consult to the date of my surgery.
I Had my surgery, LAP RNY, and everything went well. I passed the upper GI the following day and was started on clear liquids for 1 day and then full liquids which I stayed on for 1 week.
Once I was home, all was well but I could not understand why my left abdomen incision (the camera one) hurt so bad. This pain made me feel so sick and weak. I did not have any fever but the skin around this incision began to get very hard. Finally on the 7th post op day after resting with a heating pad for a few hours and then taking a hot shower, Lo and behold, Mt. Vesuvius had erupted! Thank God my mother was there with me because I was quite hysterical and relieved at the same time. I got almost 50% relief from the pain I was having. Anyway I saw my doctor that Monday and of course they had to open the incision so that it could drain. They also weighed me and I had lost 13 lb's in 1 week. (From where I wondered??) I have packing it every day.
APRIL 15, 2004
Follow-up visit and wound check with my surgeon. Everything is going well and the wound is healing nicely. At the weigh in I am now 26 lb's down. Yeah!!! I am tolerating soft moist foods at this time and cannot tolerate boiled eggs and baked chicken breast. I have not been to creative with what I eat as i am proceding with caution. I don't like the feeling of having food stuck in my pouch or throwing up, so slow is good for me right now.
I am exercising, using the treadmill and watching all those calories burn up. What a good feeling. The walking is also helping my energy level although I still have days where I feel totally drained.
APRIL 21, 2004
The last few days have proven to be interesting. Now that I can introduce more foods (except pork and beef) I was surprised to find that chicken breast and broiled cod does not go down well. I have been eating canned protiens like tuna, salmon and chicken and then add a little marinara sauce to moisten the chicken. I also eat soups without any problem. I know that is's not a good thing to throw up but I had to! It was the only way to get rid of that pain in my chest and neck. I just hope I have not done any damage.
I have not weighed since the 15th and will not until I see my surgeon next Thursday. My scale and I are on good terms, I look at it every day and pass it by. LOL
April 26, 2004
Today was my first day back to work after five weeks and wow the response I got from my co-workers was overwhelming. I felt really good with all of the nice things they had to say about my noticeable weightloss. I was grinning like the Chesire Cat in Alice in Wonderland!
I will confess that temptation got the best of me this morning and I did step on the scale, down 31 lbs and the scale and I are still on good terms.
Yesterday I met a guy at the gym and, well let's just see how it goes.
May 3, 2004 6 weeks Post-op. 
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Today I am down a toltal of 35 lb's and am quite pleased. It has not been easy pushing myself to go to the gym but I do. I know that the first 6 months after surgery is when you see fast weight loss. As far as my diet well, I am doing okay with that. Sticking to very small portions and having low fat and low carb choices. I am trying to add fruits and vegetables at least on serving a day, and I bought some fruit and vegetable supplements for safe measure. Constipation is becoming an issue. It has taken up to 3 days sometimes to have a movement and by the time I get to that point, there's lots of gas bloating and just not being able to tolerate what I eat. I have taken MOM once and may have to again tonight.
May 3, 2004 6 weeks Post-op.
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Today I am down a toltal of 35 lb's and am quite pleased. It has not been easy pushing myself to go to the gym but I do. I know that the first 6 months after surgery is when you see fast weight loss. As far as my diet well, I am doing okay with that. Sticking to very small portions and having low fat and low carb choices. I am trying to add fruits and vegetables at least on serving a day, and I bought some fruit and vegetable supplements for safe measure. Constipation is becoming an issue. It has taken up to 3 days sometimes to have a movement and by the time I get to that point, there's lots of gas bloating and just not being able to tolerate what I eat. I have taken MOM once and may have to again tonight.
May 10, 2004 weight loss = 37 lbs
I had my 6 week post op visit and all went well. My surgeon said I can start working my abs a little but I am still feeling some twinges am pulling from the left side incision. I think I will wait a few more weeks. Otherwise my exercise routine is going well. I am doing cardio and working out with my trainer 2 times a week.
I don't really know what is going on with my body but my face has broken out with some fine pimples. They don't hurt or itch but are there, and they bother me to no end. I have always had flawless skin for the most part and I can't figure out what could be causing it. I have cut out crystal light, protein shakes, and have not introduced any new foods that could be causing the problem. People keep telling me it's my body adjusting to the change in my diet.........when will it end??????
May 24, 2004 Weightloss = 44 LB's
Hello all, well things continue to go well for me. The weight loss is progressing at a comfortable rate and my exercise plan seems to be working too. Every day varies when it comes to my personal body image......sometimes I notice the weight loss and other times I don't. This week for instance I have been feeling a little bloated but no more gassy than usual. I suppose every now and then I will experience something new because of the surgery.
My acne issue, well it's still with me. I read somewhere on this site that some women release higher estrogen levels as the fat is breaking down and can get a brief period of acne. I don't know if that's true but it's sounds good to me. I'm giving it a few more weeks before going to a dermatologist.
I switched my B 12 pills to the Twin Labs brand, it's vegetarian and it seems to be working much better for me, my energy level has perked up a little bit.
I hope you all have a good week and remember to stick to the WLS rules.
une 6 2004 weight lost = 53lb's
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Everything is going well. I am really into my exercising now and the weight continues to come off at a rate of 4-5 lb's a week. I like that!!! I can't beleive how different I look already. Last night I wore a pair of Jeans, size 18, that I have not worn in 2 years. I really felt cute.
My "acne" has almost gone away and I am very happy to be not so self concious. I can really sympathize with what teenagers go through.
I sent 2 photos to obesity help and they are not posted. It's been weeks since I sent them so I will try one more time.
My diet is very good, always starting the day with a protein shake reminds me of the good food choices that I will need to make as the day goes on. I am loving the summer fruits, watermelon, cherries and strawberries and do get a small green salad in with either lunch or dinner.
Finally I have my photos posted. The first one in the red blouse was taken Xmas 2003, weight at that time was 281.
The second one was 3 weeks post op and the 3rd one at 49lb's down. Whoo hoo!!!!!!
July 31, 2004
Well it has been some weeks since I last posted here on AMOS.....I have really missed being here and reading the post's on BAF. (I'm still catching up and see alot has been going on. My life has been a little on the busy side lately with summer, vacation and preparing to go back to school in 3 more days. Yes this is another goal I set for myslef this year, to earn another degree. The first having WLS. I have been doing pretty good I think with the weightloss, as of this morning I am down 75lbs and feel really really great about it. I presently weigh 206 and cannot wait to get under 200 lbs. I am still exercising 3 times sometimes 4 times a week if I feel ambitious. I find that I can eat just about anything without feeling ill and try to stick with the program as best I can but.......I am in no way perfect, just normal. I am wearing size 14-16 in skirts and pants (even jeans) and Lg-XL in tops. The outer part of my thights now have that lean and toned "cut" look to them which I just love, but the inner thigh needs some work still. Compliments at work are getting to be a bit much for me now and I almost have to beat off the security guards in the morning as I walk in from the parking lot. LOL!!!!
See you all in about 4 more weeks!
January 12, 2005.
Ha ha ha! 4 more weeks, who was I kidding. Since I went back to school in August there has been no time to be on the computer ectept to write research papers. By the way i am maintaining a G.P.A. of 4.0.......not bad after being out of school for 24 years.
As far as my weightloss journey, well I have reached the century mark about 2 months ago. I have lost a total of 109 lbs and weigh 172 lbs. I bout my first size 10 pair of jeans last week but essentially wear a good size 12 Misses. I can wear medium or large tops depending on the fabric.
I am very pleased with the way I look and feel but am having a difficult time with carbs...there isn't really anything that makes me sick. Another strange thing is that sometimes I feel I could eat a cow and never get full and othertimes I can only take a few bites and I am full. Hmmmmmmmm!
I started taking Nexium for a stomach ulcer about 1 month ago. Over the Thanksgiving holiday I started getting severe sharp pains in my chest and back every night and only at night. I thought it was my gallbladder at first but all scans and x-rays were negative. The Nexium gave be relief alomst immediately. I have had no problems since.
I can't wait to upday my photos as I look so different now. Bye for now!
February 4, 2005
Well I just completed the protein train (my 1st one started the week of 1/23/05)and broke my plateau. I now weigh 168lbs. It was hard in the begining because I missed all of those carbs. The only carbs I allowed myself was a small salad with dinner and dressing. I am now buying size 10 pants and some medium tops. Boy do I feel good. I also focused on my water intake and as usual I was religious with taking my vitamins.
Although it has been a stressful week this week with work and having midterm exams I remained focused and I feel great! I allow myself some almonds for a snack and that seems to do the trick when I feel the need to crunch and chew.
The weight ccalculator on this site says I shoud be 151lb's, I am not sure how I will look if I get to that point as I am tall, so for now I am focusing on 160 lbs.
March 2nd 2005
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Hello there again! Well it's been about 1 month since I last posted and and as of this morning I weigh 162lbs. Not bad since I am almost at one of my goals. (I started off thinking I would be happy at 167lb's) I have past that weight and still feel like I could lose a little morse in some areas........stomach and thighs!!!! My arms are a little flabby but don't seem to bother me as much. I do hate the fact that I am bony over the chest and shoulder areas but will try and tone them a little more. I am still doing more cardio than toning because I don't want to pack muscle on top of the fat and I know that the weight loss is already slowing down.
I am greatful to the BAF family for their support and inspirational moments, all the vitamin and water challenges, and the protien trains. They help to really keep me on track and I promise to continue to contribute to the forum.
I think March is going to be a great month and I hope to see my weight somewhere in the 150's by month end.
Bye for now.
March 22 2005
See my weight somewhere in the 150's...........I must have really been dreaming. Anyway my nightmare is that I have lost control. My eating is the opposite of what it should be and for the wrong reasons. I am probably eating 80% carbs and 20% protein. I am still drinking and getting in my supplements though.
To my dismay my weight is back up to 172 lB's. I could cry!
Today is the 1 year anniversary of my rebirth and I could have crawled into a whole if it was not for the love and support from friends on BAF. I have decided to start with a clean slate and forgive myself. I will not waste time on feeling guilty or punnish myself but move on and do the things that I know how to do to acheive my weightloss goal.
it's ironic but I am taking a stress class in school and most of my stress causes me to over eat..........duhhhhhhhhh I knew that and I know what triggers my stress.........My relationship with my boyfriend. We don't get to spend much time together and I tend to put too much importance into how much time we spend together and how happy I am. While he is away for his job I am totally miserable. I go out every now and then with friends but not often enough and at the gym, well lets say I am on a mission to look better and not meet new people. As soon as night falls my mind wanders and usually ends up looking for something sweet.
Soooooo my plan is to keep a food journal and also the journal required for my class where I write all the (my) stressors for the day and how I resolved or aleviated them. I'm also focusing on 80-100 grams of protein a day and 40-60 gmas of carbs. For my sweet cravings I am going to try the Atkins snack bars if necessary. I also read somewhere a recipe for fat free sugar free mouse so I will try that too.
WISH ME LUCK!
March 23 2005
Today has been going well so far. I spent a few hour at the hair dresser this morning and OMG. My hair is really shedding. I think I am staying away from extensions for now as they have not helped. I have length to my natiral hair but not body and it's thin as hell.
Today I added 1 scoop of problend 55 to my shake which brings it up to 40 Gm's of protein. I will have the second one at around 8pm followed by 24 oz of water. It really fills me up.
I would like to say that I will stay away from the scale but will only commit to weighing weekly not monthly.
Look for next weeks post!
March 30, 2005
I wanted to give a quick update on my progress this past week. After going back to what works for me, I am happy to say I am back down to 166 LB's! It's always good to stick with what you know will work. I will admit it's still a struggle but with having the additional carbs I feel morse satisfied and not likely to make bad food choices.
April 5, 2005
Today my weight is back up to 168 LB's. This is because I am still falling off the program. I can be so good during the daytime but by the time evening gets here, I don't want to eat or drink anymore protein. I need to start looking for healthier choices that will satisfy my sweet craving. I was never big on the protein bars but I may keep 1 or 2 on hand and see if it helps. I know that there are many diversions that I could use and not think about food but I get so lazy sometimes. I am still working out 3 times a week and am greatful for that but I probably should try and do at least 30 minutes of cardio on the evenings when I don't go to the gym. Why do I lack motivation? I still keep a daily journal for school and it has helped me somewhat in releiving stress so I know my eating is purely out of boredom.
Anyway this is another week, lets see what it will bring.
April 13, 2005
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Good day to all and too me!!! I woke up and weighed this morning and I am at 160 LB's. Getting closer to in the 150 range which means i have 10 LB's to get to my last goal of 150. I feel comfortable now with my eating and have added fresh fruit to my diet (I don't dump on these). This is actually my favorite time of year when the summer fruits are approaching. I get in about 80-90 grams of protein per day.
I have been using the stairmaster for my cardio workouts and I am really seeing a difference in the shape and mucle tone in my legs.......Could I also be getting a little shape back in the butt region????.....It sure looks like it. Now I know why Oprah raves about this machine. I have 3 more weeks of school left before the semester ends and I cannot wait. It has been so hard juggling my workouts and school studies and I have only been getting 2-3 nights in at the gym. When I am there I make the best of it though!
SEE YOU AT NEXT WEEKS CHECK IN!!!
April 19 2005
Todays weigh in, 158 LB's. I am so happy!!! It has taken a lot of hard work, going to the gym, keeping a food journal etc. I am trying to be honest with myself and with everything that goes into my mouth. I look at what the triggers are for making unhealthy choices. These are becoming fewer and I don't give up the minute a swallow a cookie by eating the whole bag. Focussing on myself a little more has helped and making myself the most important person.
I'm only 8 LB's away from my personal goal and of course people are still saying that I look too thin and not to lose anymore weight. So what else is new??? My ex told me that I have a coca cola bottle shape now and the exercising is paying off. I actually blushed because he has not made any comments about my weight loss for months now and I see him eyeing me up and down when he thinks i'm not looking!!!! LOL Too bad and too late!!!
Anyway I will see y'all here again for next weeks update. happy losing!!!
April 22 and 23, 2005
MAY 1 2005 Weight 161LB's
The weight is up again and I'm ok with that. I am comfortable with all these fluctuations over the past few weeks and I think this is just how it's going to be. I am feeling good and looking good, still not so perfect with the diet but for the most part I am doing so much better with controlling the starchy carbs. I'm loving my fruits and vegetables with my protien and can eat them without getting bloated or dumping. I am still taking my protien shakes, mostly on weekday mornings for convenience.
I have not been to the gym for the past two weeks. My poor excuse is that I have been studying for finals at school. Shame on me! Anyway the semester is over this week and I have decided to take a summer class (6 weeks) so that I can graduate May 2006. The it will be vacation time. We (my mom and my sons are booked for England in July for 2 weeks. I have not mentioned it before but I am from England, yes still with the British accent too!!!! Anyway I am going to show my sons where "Mum" was born.
May 10, 2005
My weight is holding at 161 LB's and I am still comfortable at this weight. The funny thing is, I have not really lost any weight over the past 2 months or so, just bounced back and forth a few pounds up and then down, but people at work keep saying, don't lose anymore weight and I tell them I haven't for 2 months. I am wearing more size 8 clothes. My size 10's are a little big and the pants don't look so good even when I hold them up with a belt. Now that the summer is here I have been buying Skorts. I have 3 of them and they are just fantastic.....I love 'em!
I'm still taking all of my vitamins and suplements, drinking my water and having a protein shake in the mornings. This past week was not so good in the exercise department but I felt I needed to catch up with myself since I had finals at school. I did get to the gym tonight and did cardio and lower body. I feel really good now.
My surgeon has asked me to get some photos done at his office for posting and using during his lecture to pre-ops. I'm almost ready to do this.
Well I will see you all in about 1 more week for an update.
May 22 2005 Weight 160 LB's
All is going well with me and I remain stable in the weight department. It is still a struggle for me to eat enough protein at times, you know I really get tired of it! I still have my protein shakes every morning.........I cannot beleive how easy that has become a part of my life, and everything else about my eating continues to require discipline. I am so grateful to my BAF family because the support I receive keeps me on track when I need it. Today I have asked for support on a protein train. I have been eating less protein than I should and need to get back on track with that. My surgeon recommends that I eat at least 80 grams of proteing daily and I thinkg I have been getting around 50 gm's or so. I am committed to myself in getting back to eating the way I should as a post-op. The one good thing is that I am not over eating and gaining any weight. I consider that an accomplishment.
Later!
June 8 2005
I have just a few moments to update my page. I have to tell you that I went to my 1st meet and greet on June 4 in Miami and met with 3 very special BAF sister, Tracy, DD and Bev W (Bev is sort of adopted on BAF). We all spent the day in the Aventura Mall which is such a grande place and I loved it. It was such a relaxing atmosphere with these ladies as if we had known each other for ever. WLS certainly brought us together and I value their friendships. We shopped, we ate we flirted and strutted throughout the mall fromm 11am to 7pm. We had no problems finding things to do , the place was so big we didn't even get to see all of it. As for the day spa plans well that has to wait for another time. Our next meet will be up my way at the sawgrass mall. I better do my homework for thatone.
Anyhow, The protein train kicked off on Monday, I am syked as I have vacation coming up in 5 weeks. Although I am happy with my weight I would like to lose 5 lb's before my trip. I want to shock the heck out of my family in England who have not seen me in 2.5 years, and they don't know that I have had WLS.
Laters!
June 13, 2005
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The protein train ride this past week was a good one. My motives on the train were not to lose weigh but get back to making better food/protein choices. Today starts again with focusing on protein but I will reduce my caloric intake so that I can lose about 5 lbs before my vacation. I just don't want to go over to England feeling all puffed up from carbs. One thing that I am still pleased with is the fact that I have not lost any weight since march, just going up and down 1-2 lb's here and there and still reducing in size. My weight is holding around 160 lb's. I can now wear a size medium - small top and size 8-6 pants. GO FIGURE!!! I contribute it to my preserving my muscle and losing fat which is ideal. I am in no way toned and don't know if I will ever be but I am soooooo happy. I certainly do not want to get any smaller than this though as I am tall.
June 21, 2005
Things continue to look up for me and I give thanks to the almighty, the Lord my God for the blessings that he has bestowed upon me. I am in my final week of my present job, which I have had for 14 years. Yes, it's time I moved on. I start my new job on Monday the 27th and am really looking forward to it. There will be a lot of growth potential for me and new challenges which I intend to capitalize on. Over the weekend I bought a new black DNKY suite in a size 8. As I looked in the 3 sided mirror at the store, I could not beleive that the tiny persons reflection that I saw was me, really me!!! I felt so good!
I also bought my first formal gown (well second if you count the wedding gown)I am going to a policemans ball on Saturday and found this knock dead gorgeous, full length beaded gown in champagne. It is so nice to be thin, cost me $85.00 on sale at Dillards. I tried on so many gowns that day and loved all of them.
Today I am weighing 155 lb's. Yes I have lost the 5 pounds that I wanted to, before vacation. I just hope I can maintain the loss.
By for now my BAF!
July 7 2005 160lbs (again)
It's my birthday happy birthday to meeeeeeeeeee!!!! ............and what do they do, try and blow up London on the eve of our long planned holiday. Yep, I'm stressed right now and don't feel like celebrating. I prayed and talked to my kids and mom and the trip is still on. We travel tomorrow evening. I have kept myself busy today with last minute chores and making sure the home is secure while we are away. The guppie was sent off the my ex's house. (I hope its not dead when we get back.
As far as me wanting to be a few pounds lighter for the trip, well that didn't work, my body is not happy unless it's about 160 .....so be it.
I want to thanks my BAF family for all the love and prayes sent my way and i will see you all (online)in 2 weeks. Peace!
July 29 2005 wt. 163 lb's
I'm back and have finally recovered from jet lag. I must be getting old as it has never affected me this bad before. The vacation was truly fantastic and a dream come true for my boys. Family, If I had not taken off this weight I could not have done it! We commuted everywhere, climbed the Eiffel Tower, ran for buses and trains, it was just great. I had energy to kill. I have lots of photos which I have started to put on picture trail but it is a slow process. We visited with lots of family members cousins aunts and uncles that my kids have never met before. Paris is truly a beautiful and romantic city. The people are so good looking and classy, young and not so young. And it's tru the women go braless......i've never seen so many nipples standing to attention. I dont have that problem because my boobs don't stand up and i have to wear padded bras......LOL!!!!!!
I could go on about our trip but will not. Just wait for the pics.
I'm starting up a protein train on Monday 8/1/05 because i need to de-carb. those pastry shops in Paris are just not good for the WLS patient.
bienvenue amoir! (sp)
Bev
August 1, 2005 Weight 162lb's
I have the protein train up and running today for increased motivation and weightloss of course. I seriously need to de carb since my vacation. Curses on the french bread and pastries!! They are to die for. This should be a good week for me as my children are with my mom on the west coast until the weekend and then they will return with their uncle.
On a sader note, we got the news that my grandmother passed away at the age of 96 in Jamaica. We got the call on Saturday. Traditionally in JA, they hold the body for qhite sometime until overseas relatives arrive to attend the funeral. My mother will be travelling there early next week. Unfortunately I have one week in Jacksonville, of trainng for my new job so I will not be able to go. I am really concerned about my mom as she does not get around to well, walks with a cane and get's tired very easily. I know that her feet will swell and her arthritis has not been much under control lately. She is insistent of going though. (This was my dad's mom). On top of this, my grand uncle Riley is also in the hospital in JA and may not make it. he has cancer. This is my grand mothers brother. I have not posted about my loss on the board because i don't do well emotionally during these times and it makes me think more about my dad who passed away 3 years ago.
August 27 2005
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Hello all, not too much to post today. I am at 167 lbs. It's funny how you body just knows where it wants to be weight wise. (this is the high end of where I care to be with my weight). I would still like to be around 155 but can't seem to stay at that weight when I get there. I am a solid size 8 and have some size 6 stretch jeans. my tops is medium to small. I can't get used to people calling me skinny, especially those that did'nt know me when I was obese. They just assume that I don't have an eating problem and no problems with weight...............boy are they wrong!! I am very concious of my weight and everything that goes in my mouth. I eat what I want but try to stick with the 80/20 rule on most days. I'm still drinking a protein shake a day.....for breakfast and on a rare morning I may have eggs. I have dropped off with the exercise a little and am doing 1 hour 3 times a week............mostly cardio.
South Florida is still recovering from Hurricane Katrina and my heart goes out to all who are in it's path now that she is a category 5.......I cannot imagin what the impact will be like! You folks take care and heed the warnings given........My prayers are with you!
September 12, 2005 weight 157Lb's
Well I am just abot at my 18 month mark and wanted to make a quick not here. I thank my Lord and Saviour for giving me the gift of this surgery and life without physical complications. I have been fortunate not to suffer from anything too serious as a result of the surgery and could not be more happier with my weightloss and my healthier body.............not forgetting my beautiful looks. Yep, i'm going to toot my own horn!!! "I AM BEAUTIFUL".
Now, as for the BAF board, I'm not to sure what is going on there but I don't find it as tasteful as before. I am a little disgusted as to what some folks are posting.....yes I know it where you can have a voice but there are boards for certain subjects. I will not go into detail as I like to leave these things alone. I only plan to continue to support those on there weightloss journey when I can and give my input on diet and fitness and what has worked for me.
There are some folks that have remained focused and positive......again, not mentioning any names, and I hope that we do not lose all of the good ones as a result of someones unkind words or imaturity.
Laters!
September 19, 2005
Well I have started the protein train up again by popular demand. I am starting this week out weighing 156 lb's and my day is to just have a good week focused on my eating the right kind of foods as a WLS patient, to exercise and just feel pretty darn good about myself. I am so happy to be out of the 160's you just can't imagine and I am feeling more motivated now more than ever. I have so many things going on in my life right now and they are all good but still a bit of a struggle when I have to juggle my life to meet so many needs, especially my kids. If it were not for my physical well being, I am sure I would be stressed to the max! One of these days when I get the time, I would like to be able to add a section to my page giving more advice to those who have had or are considering WLS. Right now what's here is based on my own personal experiences.
Anyway, got to get back to work, but I will give a post protein train update next Monday!
September 26, 2005
The protein train was a success for me and I hope for many more that were on board. Today I weighed in at 153 lb's, 3 pounds down from last week Monday. Yeahhhhhhhhhh!!! I will say that I had to work very hard too. It is so true that losing the last 10 lb's is the hardest....., well now I only have 3 more to go. I had to exercise religiously and keep my caloric intake between 800-1000 calories a day...........averaging about 130 gm's of protein and 40-60 gm's of carbohydrates. I also made sure to exercise and focused on cardio.
Everything elso is going well for me in my life and I have to give thanks to the Almighty God for making all things possible. He sure has shown me the way.
Be Blessed family until my next update!
October 22, 2005 Weight 151 lb's
Good morning all! I'ts been a few weeks since I updated here purely because I have been so busy. My job and school are challenging me for some reason. Classwork seems to be harder than usual but I thinks it's because I have not put myself on a disciplined study schedule. I need to change that right now! Work and the powers that be have put the pressure on to increase patient volumes in my department.........so until that happens i flex down staff and then fill in the gap by doing the work myself. I hate this but it's business.
We here in Florida are again hanging in limbo while waiting to see what, when and where hurricane Wilma is going to get up to. My mom lives on the west coast of South FL and of course that is a concern. Luckily she has her plan in place and will be evacuating to the home of a good family friend.
As far as my weightloss journey, it continues to be a good one. My eating is stable and in control. I find that i am not snacking as much as I used too..........even under all of my stress I find that a nice cup of green tea with lemon relaxes and satisfies me. Don't get me wrong, I will have that peice of candy when I want it but but within limits and not that often. I am just feeling and looking SO SEXY these days I don't want to spoil it.
Anyway fam, I'm off to take my son to a university he is hoping to get accepted to for next year and we are going to see what scholarships and financial aid are available to him.
Take care, Bev :-)
November 16, 2005 Weight 143lb's
Yes, I said my weight is 143 lb's!!!!!! Who would of ever thought that I would start losing again. I swear by those protein trains. If you stick with it...........it will happen. I must also add that my recent stress level also helped with losing because I did not do any forbidden food snacking and stayed away from carbs because I just didn't want them. My foot size is trying to decrease by 1 and I can now wear some size 10's. Gee I hope I don't have to start giving more shoes away!!!!! As for clothes, well I have size 12, 10 and 8's which are going to have to go.......whaaaaaaaaaa!!!!!!! I must have spent thousands rebuilding my closet and now I have to do it all over again. I wear a lot of belts and the size 8 jeans are looking like I'm a pauper............all bunched up in the waist. Not good. I am wearing a size 6 and some size 4 jeans. My momma is gonna kill me when she see's me, I just know it!!!!!!
Anyway, I quit my job of 4 months last week. It was more than anyone in their right mind could bear. Without going into details, i am comfortable with my decision and will take a few weeks to catch-up with myself my children and school work. I will be looking for another job in the meantime.
BAF, BAF, BAF!!! You are some beautiful people. I got to go to the ATL meet and greet this past weekend and enjoyed myself so much. It has been quite a while since I felt like a free bird. I did not get to go to all of the events, as I also visited my best friend Maxine and her Fiance Chris.
I have to give an honorable mention to Cookie (Hope) who did a fantastic job with organizing everything. Hope is so cool and has it all together. Dolphin DeDee, what another beautiful soul. Girl you crack me up. Between you and your sister, I just don't know!!!! I also met Trini Peach, Post-op (Renee), Stephanie, Nat F, Lisa H, Girl keep knocking them dead with your smile, Frenchy, such a gentleman, and you know he really is very smart.....Don't be fooled by what he posts on the board. There where many others and if I did not get to speak with you all, my apologies. sometimes I get really shy........honest!
Well, I better get back to my books, I have a BioEthics quiz tonight.
Laters!
January 2nd, 2006 HAPPY NEW YEAR BAF!
I had hoped to update my profile to end 2005 but now I will just add my thoughts for this new year, 2006. The year is starting out on a very positive note for me and it's almost scarey! I say this because I am usually down in the dumps, unhappy, and alone when seeing the New Year in. This year was totally different. I thanked God that I had my family, my mother recovered form her mini strokes and we go to prepare the Christmas meal together as always. I continue to pray that God will provide her with good health and strength for this coming year. My children are continuing to grow into fine young men........of course they are boys and teenagers, so they are very typical but I am blessed that they are good and respectful, do okay in school and i just pray that they continue to exhibit good values instilled upon them by myself and their father. I also give thanks to God for keeping their dad involved in their lives..........he is truely a loving father!
On a personal note, I have met a very special man who I spent New Year's Eve with......the first time in about 7 years. Aaron is very special to me, and let me tell you that it is going to take some work on my part in getting used to this man's attention. I read a post by Nat F about her friend and can relate to what she wrote about. How do you act when a man looks into your eyes and tell's you that he worships you????? I could see and feel how sincere he was and really did not know what to say. Aaron got to meet my best friend Maxine who was visiting from ATL and loved him so much that she invited us to dinner so that HER mother could meet him!!!!!! We are both trying to figure out where that was coming from. Anyway, Max and Chris her fiance, hung out with Aaron and I the whole weekend and saw the NY in as 2 couples having a blast at a party! It feels so good being 1 half of a couple again!!!! I plan on posting a photo of us on pictuertrail later.
Tomorrow I will start my new job and will be glad to start earning an income again. I have not seen a paycheck sinc November 12 or so. LOL!!!!
My final thoughts for today are just to go with the flow, enjoy the road that my life is travelling on, continue to watch my weight and stick to the WLS ruls as much as possible. I am not perfect and don't intend to be, I just don't want to gain back any weight. Today I am weighing 153LB's and look fine, but I am still not satisfied. I am not sure what is going on in my head beceuse when I got down to143, I was in panic mode because the weightloss was due to stress. I just did not feel healthy but I looked good. I would like to get back down to 145 but slowly. Now the other thing is my thinking about a TT. I may have to consider this becaus my stomach is the only part of me that could look a little better especially in my clothes. let's just wait and see what I decide to do.
I'll be back soon!
January 11, 2005
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I am in the mood to update my profile today and to tell you the truth I have nothing else to do.. I started my new job last week Tuesday and love it. On my 3rd day working, I fell in the parking lot and badly twisted my ankle. I ended up with an avulsion (chipped) fracture of one of the bones and some badly damaged ligaments. I am so bumbed out about the whole thing. Not being familiar with the lay out of the parking lot, I did not realize that there was a curb that you step down after getting off of the elevator on the roof. I am doing better today although the foot sweels very easily when I don't keep it elevated,...........shame on me!!!! My MRI is scheduled for tomorrow and I go back to the orthopedic doctor in 3 weeks. I am hoping that they will allow me to go back to work on light duty, as there is a lot of learning that I can do related to the job and organizing files in my office.
Speaking about my office, the hospital I work at is downtown fort lauderdale and I am on the 8th floor, NE corner. I can see all of downtown and the atlantic ocean on a clear day.........Whoooooo!! Just beautiful. Anyway I did take some pics, not the best but plan to post them on picturetrail.
Moving forward into 2006, I was thinking about where I am now and where I was when I began my WLS journey. My 2 year anniversary comes up in March on the 22nd and i am hoping to be setteld 100% in the new me. Yes the new me!! I look at everyday as a new day withnew challenges and hopes to find new ways to better myself. I still struggle with food issues and find it hard sometimes to go back to the basics. Why do we call them basics when they should be a regular part of our post-op lives. I'm talking about pouch rules here and believe in order to be successful, these rules are not to be broken.
Overall, I am happy with my successes so far, I love the way I am looking and feeling. My confidence level continues to soar and allows me to be more open and receptive to new ideas and activities. I find myself always wanting to be the center of attention............ain't nothing wrong with that!!!
Laters!
Date?????
(Due to the lack of time, I have been reduced to copying and pasting my post from today in order to update my profile............what a shame!!!!!)
Hi BAF,
Sorry I have been in serious lurk mode for the past month or so.....I hope you are all doing well. I've been so busy with work and school and getting my oldest son ready for graduation next month and college in July!!!! my baby is only 16 and ready for the world. I thank God that he has his head on straight, he's focused and goes after what he wants. He went and applied for a job at Banana Republic and at 1st they would not hire him, said he was too young, then they called him back 2 weeks later and hired him...........who wouldn't!!!
Anywho, after being so consumed with everything, I forgot that March 22nd was my 2 year anniversary since having WLS.........my rebirthday too!!! I am doing so well I can't stand myself sometimes. I still have my moments with eating the wrong things and not exercising but trying to maintain control is easier now than it was 1 year ago. I still take my vitamins and supplements, drink water and green tea during the day. Sorry Cookie, I still have to have that cup of joe 1st thing in the morning........yep.... with caffeine and flavored creamer!!!! Frenchy said he would take the licks for me!!!!
God has truely blessed me and put me where he wants me to be in this world, and I am truely greatful.
I have posted a few pics on picturetrail under "2 year anniversary ...." for anyone interested in taking a look.
I hope to be able to check in a little more frequently but can't make any promises..........school is whooping my A** too!
I love you all BAF and wish the best of luck to all pre-op's no-ops, newbies and oldies, and remember, the choices you make, you make for you only, stay positive and confident and you will be successful in all that you do!
July 15, 2006 - Weight 155lb's
It's been a few months since I last posted. (Ididn't even date the last post). Anywho, so much has been going on in my busy life. The new job of 7 months is still new to me as I am learning so much. My boss is a 27 yr old African American and is as smart as can be. i intend to tap into her brain as much as I can.........I'm so proud of her!
My son Patrick graduated from high school, started college this past Monday, full time, still has his part time job and got his drivers license on Wednesday, Have I told you how proud of him I am???...........and he's only 16 (ok, 17 next month). What an accomplishment for a young man.
We took our vacation in Montego Bay Jamaica this year and had a ball. it rained off an on for 2 days but we enjoyed it just the same. The Sunset Beach Resort is a place to stay at on vacation and the all inclusive package was great. How many rum punches can one drink. I was there telling them to go light on the rum and the fruit punchwas to sweet and nearly killed me one night. My poor kids had to witness mommy throwing up and having diarrhea. I'm just hoping they don't think I was drunk!!!
We also went to Dunns River and climbed the falls. We don't have any pics of that but have it on DVD. That was a blast and I would do it again.
I go back to school on the 14th of August and will take my last 3 classes. I will graduate in May '07. With God's help I will still be at my present job and will apply for the MBA program which the job will pay for 100%. I will need to take Saturday classes for 18 months and finish. Let's see what happens.
I had my 48th birthday on July 7th, it came and went just like any other day but I am going to get out tonight and celebrate.
My weight is stable at 155 lb's and I can gauge when Ieat too many carbs because I get the worst gas and my stomach is boated and I feel uncomfortable...........soooooooooooo I don't eat too may carbs!!!! I went to my favorite store and bought some pants for work, size 4, with stretch material. I love them. I also bought a size small top which I am fitting into a lot more these days.
I need to get back into the gym but need to get more motivation and focus of exercise which i don't desire to do right now. Shame on me! I am haveing such a good time getting out and socializing and looking cute.
Well, I'm off now and will update in about a month or so.
Peace and love.
September 19, 2006 
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It's been a few months since I updated my profile. I have been having my fair shair of struggles in my personal life but nothing that I have not had in the past. My weight continues to go up and down between 155 and 165 at the most. What I like about having weightloss surgery is that it is so much easier for me to lose the pounds that I gain. on the other hand it is also too easy to eath the things I am not supposed to. Maintaining a healthy balance in my eating and exercise routine is sometimes a challenge but I know I can conquor both.
I am in my last semester of college and will walk in the graduation ceremony in May 2007. I pray that God allows me to complete my studies and reciev my BS degree in Health Services Administration. I am looking towards the MBA program but not sure if I want to sp
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