shercara
MY STORY
A little bit about “ME” I am a 43 year old Wife (of 22 years to my Darling Husband Phil) and Mother to our 2 Wonderful Sons ~ Nick (16) and Jake (10). I am also going to include both my and my husband’s history with weight, and weight loss, since we are in this battle together.
I have battled with weight and weight-loss my whole life. I was always a chubby child. I remember in grade school always being the “last one picked” for any gym activity, and dreading the President’s Physical Fitness Test. In High School, I would go to the nurse’s office as often as I could and complain of cramps to get out of gym, and having to get changed in the locker room. My Mother and I were always on and off of Weight Watchers ( she still battles with her weight today) I remember in High School taking the following for lunch: a can of TAB (first diet soda available I think) a tuna sandwich made up of on piece of bread – lightly toasted then cut in half to make 2 THIN slices (before the “light” breads of today) and the tuna was mixed with Worscteshire Sauce instead of mayo – YUM!! (gag!)
I did manage to loose enough weight by my Freshman year to wear shorts but I was still chunky. Then at 16 I met and fell in love with Phil. He was 17 ½ and also struggled with his weight. Neither of us were Obese or even Morbidly Obese at that time, but we sure took the journey to there together! ( And thoroughly enjoyed ourselves I might add!) While dating, Phil lived on a busy street, in a house with a big front porch that overlooked a Deli, Bakery, Carvel, and Sub-Sandwich Shops across the street. – Date night at that age consisted of sitting on the porch, watching the cars go by, being impressed by how he could name the make and model of each car, and of course – eating anything from chips, ice cream sundaes, napoleons and cannoli pastries, or sandwiches. Hey, I had this Great Guy, who loved me, and who I loved …. So the pounds started to pack on.
We married 6 years after we met, and I became a really good cook – more pounds. We tried Weight Watchers (W.W.) together from time to time and lost but gained it back and more.
Six years after we were married, our first son was born. Now, Nick was a BIG baby – 10 lbs 5 ozs – but that did not account for the 70 + lbs I gained. Phil probably gained about that along with me. We went out to dinner after every Doctors visit and Lamaze class!
Then, more W.W. together, more lbs lost and gained back, and 5 ½ years after Nick, our 2nd son Jake was born. I think during that pregnancy was when I first reached my all time high weight of 297 lbs. Well Jake was a “small” baby, only 9 lbs 3 ozs! Thank goodness Nick was upside-down and backwards in my first pregnancy and both boys were delivered by “C” sections. By this time I really had a hanging belly!
Ok – now with 2 kids, and both of us working full time – bring on the fast food! It was just so much easier to “pick-up” dinner ( hot dogs all the way, fried chicken, burgers) than to take the time to make something more healthy. Oh we tried W.W. on and off, as well as Atkins and South Beach… but it was always the same story, LOSS = GAIN + MORE! And so it went year after year.
Sher (@285) & Phil (@300) July 2004 - Pre-WLS
Fast forward a little to the year 2004. This year found Phil facing a very trying time in his life. His Mom, who had suffered from Diabetes since she was 40, and along with it, mostly all of its complications, had been very ill many times over the past decade. At this point in her life, she was unable to take care of herself, and he and his 2 brothers and 2 sisters were forced to find a nursing home that could give her 24-hour care. Her kidneys had pretty much shut down, and she required dialysis 3 times a week at this point. She constantly battled congestive heart failure and was in and out of the hospital and was counted out many times. She also battled bed and foot sores, loosing all the toes on her one foot about 8 years before. In June of 2004, she had to have her leg amputated above the knee due to an infection that started in her foot and progressed quickly into her bone. She amazed us by appearing fine after the surgery and in very good spirits, but 2 days later she crashed and became very ill. She had an amazing spirit, and never wanted to give up on life. Unfortunately, on July 4th, 2005, her body just couldn’t do it any more, and she passed away. This was a very difficult time for all of us, and especially for Phil. He was very close to his Mom. She had lived across the street from us for 8 years, and we became very close. She was only 70 years old.
Phil had been diagnosed with Diabetes about 8 years before this, and had been taking pills, and attempting to modify his diet. He had high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and by 2002 was not only taking pills for his diabetes, he had progressed to shots 3 times a day. In March of 2004, he began talking about WLS. At first I was TOTALLY AGAINST it. Defiantly NO WAY he was going to have the “drastic” RNY – maybe he could convince me about the Lap-Band. So we started our research – on-line, asking his PCP, attending Dr’s seminars, Phil talked to a co-worker who had had LAP-RNY, and both he and his wife were very successful. We finally found the remarkably talented, and compassionate Dr. Alexander Abkin, who had performed his co-workers surgery, and attended one of his very professional and informative seminars. After absorbing all of the info, we both came to understand that due to Phil’s medical conditions – at this point he was taking 11 pills, plus 3 shots per day – RNY was the only successful way to go. We were very confident with Dr. Abkin and this decision. Phil’s surgery was on August 2nd, 2004. He weighed 303 lbs. He was blessed with no complications, during or after surgery. To date ( March 13, 2005) Phil has lost 123 lbs! He now weighs 180 lbs and would like to get down to 160 – 165. He has become a total gym freak, and enjoys working out, walking, and now aerobic classes. Now for the BEST part … He is off ALL medications! No pills – no shots! The only pills he takes now are his vitamins! THIS SURGERY WAS TRULY A MIRACLE! They only “BAD” thing he will say about the WLS is he is now always cold. Before he was always hot, and in the summer our home was referred to as a “meat locker – so cold you could hang meat! It will be very interesting to see what the summer brings.
So after about 6 months of witnessing Phil’s success – it was my turn. I do not have the many medical complications that Phil had. My only issue was my knees. These past years they have been giving me a lot of pain. They creak going up and down stairs. I pretty much have been avoiding stairs whenever I could. My first inkling was to get the LapBand - I didn’t want anything so permanent as the RNY, but then I started to get these “signs” that helped me with my decision.
1st - 2 months after Phil’s surgery, we went away for a weekend to Boston, Mass (our 22nd Anniversary get-a-way) Phil was able to eat out at restaurants, and find menu choices that were good for him, and tasted good to. Eating out is something we very much enjoy, and his WLS has not changed that – just the choices that are made.
2nd – While we were away, Phil had no trouble walking around sight seeing. I would get out of breath, and my knees and legs hurt.
3rd – I have a friend who had the Band about 2 years ago. She lost about 75 lbs and has about that much more to go. She pretty much stopped loosing for about 6 months. She told me her port came loose, and she had to have additional surgery to correct this. At this point I realized there was an ongoing maintenance with the Band that I wasn’t sure I was willing to run back and forth to the Dr. to take care of.
4th – Another friend had the Band surgery one day after Phil’s. When we met her about 3 months after their surgery, Phil had lost about 60 lbs, and she had lost about 30 lbs.
5th – The most important. I was wrestling with the fact that RNY was so “permanent” when I finally realized that I wanted to and needed to loose this weight “PERMANENTLY!” It all became very clear to me, and I made my decision to proceed with Lap-RNY with Dr. Abkin.
Below is a diary of my WLS Journey. I hope you find it helpful in making you decision, or easing you mind that you are not alone.
294 Highest weight (beginning of 2004)
289 June 2004
276 12/2/04 - 1st PreOp Visit to Dr
265.5 1/31/05 - at home morning of surgery
271 2/2/05 - at home after hospital
254 2/10/05 - 1st Post-Op Visit to Dr
249 3/7/05 - 1 month Dr. Visit (somethings wrong with his scale!
244 3/13/05 - at home scale
233 4/17/05
1/6/05
Waiting for Insurance approval. I'm not too concerned, my wonderful Husband had WLS this past August (8/2/04)and I am insured with his insurance. I've had all my labs done. Now I have a pre-op class to attend on 1/13, and EKG scheduled on 1/18, and surgery is scheduled for 1/31/05. I really can not wait. I am using the same Surgeon as my husband - Dr. Abkin, and have complete confidence in him and his abilities. My husband's surgery and overall experience has been so successful, and I know I have his support and guidance to get me through mine.
1/11/05
I've been approved! Pre-Op class in on 1/13/04, and final test (EKG) is scheduled on the 18th - I'm on my way to a new me!
1/12/05
Our Gazelle arrived today! I expect it to be my new best friend!
1/13/05
My husband Phil and I went to my Post-Op class today. Dr Popkova came in to answer any questions. She was actually brought to tears when one pre-op patient said that she wasn't going to quit smoking, and if she died due to that - then it was her own fault - not the Dr's or anyone else's - Dr. Popkova said they are not the kind of surgeons who operate on people and never see them again, they look at all of their patients as Family - and since her family is so far away, it really upsets her when she hears that. She said that her "job" is better than an OBGYN, that brings babies into the world, that they really change and bring new life to people. She loves and is very proud of what she and all of the Drs at Advanced Laproscopic Surgeons do. I was very impressed and comforted by her reaction.
We also learned that Phil shouldn't take Calcium and Iron together, since they both compete for absorption at the same time. It was very informative.
1/14/05 - 1/16/05
Spent a GREAT weekend in Baltimore with Phil's brothers, sisters and their spouses. It's a yearly get-away that we always try to fit in. Adults only - leave the kids at home and have fun together. We had fun exploring Baltimore and I can't wait to have more energy and less knee pain to walk around next year when we go away.
Phil is down 103 lbs since his surgery on 8/2/04, and is feeling GREAT. I pray that my surgery will be just as successful. He looks SO GOOD, but better than that, he is SO MUCH more healthier, and I think happier too! His surgery has truly been a BLESSING and I thank God every night for this WONDERFUL MAN I am married to and share my LIFE and LOVE with.
Our Fitness Quest Total Gym arrived when we were gone, and joins our new Gazelle in our "at home gym" we are setting up in the basement, which I think will be my new "hang out!"
1/23/05
One more week to go! I went to my PCP - Dr. K for my EKG (as required by Dr. Abkin) and all is well. Dr. K also did an ultra sound of my heart -and passed that as well. He wants to do a Stress test on Tuesday, since I've never had one and I'm 43! He expects no problems, but since I'm 43 (did he have to keep saying that!) and I'm going under general anesthesia, I should have one as a precaution. I don't know if it's really necessary, or just another billing for him. But I'll go along with it since my insurance pays for it and it's better to be safe than sorry.
We added another piece of equipment to our growing gym. Phil's friend had a treadmill for sale, so that has joined the Total Gym and the Gazelle, oh and the excerise ball too! Now I just have to get myself down there!
2/6/05
My first post from the “OTHER SIDE!” The surgery went fine (I’m told) and the Hospital stay was uneventful. I met a lot of nice people and hope to hear from them too. Phil and I did a lot of talking to other WLS Patients, and he was an inspiration to many. I hope to hear from our new friends Lola and her husband Rubin, as well as Leo whom we met too! My new friend Maryellen who had surgery the same day, and I are keeping in touch by email, and lending each other support and comparing our journeys. This is very helpful.
My only real issue at this point is getting out of our higher than high bed! My husband Phil stayed home with me on Thurs and Fri, so he could get our boys off to school, but next week I'm on my own. (He's been so wonderful- I am blessed)
Some of my staples are red too, but Phil says they look good. My last pain med was this morning at 6am. I am on Darvocet- it's not too strong- because I am allergic to morphine products.
I'm getting in all of my water/liquid with no problem. I've had low fat cream of mushroom soup/ S/F jello, pudding (yum) and yogurt with no problem. I'm also having the protein shakes too.
My only problem was cream of wheat - but I think I ate too much of it (8oz - but very slowly)
My follow up appt is on Thursday at 9:30
2/7/05
Got out of the bed with little problem and got our oldest son (Nick) off to school. The youngest (Jake) has a cold and cough, and spent the day at home with me.
I had the cream of wheat made with 8 oz of skim milk again today - I had it in 2 servings - 4 oz's each which was much better than the 8 oz's I first had all at once.. I didn't have any gas pains - but a few rumbles in my tummy, which were weird but not painful!
I am having the 1 scoop of protein shake mix with 8 oz's of skim milk twice a day, and sipping it down, fortunately with no problems. When Phil first had the shakes after his surgery - they "went right through him." But now he tolerates them with no problem.
I've been making herbal tea with Splenda and then putting it in the freezer to get cold. All the water I was drinking made me feel like I was going to float away so I needed a change.
I am able to get in a total of 72 oz's of fluid-counting the shakes and milk/pudding/yogurt- per day. And the 2 shakes/yogurt/pudding are totaling 54 grams of protein -so I think I am right on track. It's funny how GOOD raspberry yogurt actually tastes when you eat it slowly with tiny spoonfuls - oh and S/F butterscotch pudding is just AWESOME!
Not to be gross - but I had my 1st "BM" today - not too bad - just a little one, but I knew all day it was on it's way - there was a little rumbling way down below. I think I may add a stool softener to my daily vitamins thought!! LOL!!
I am having no problem getting in all my vitamins, since they are so important.
I am kind of tired too - but Phil, my resident expert tells me this is normal, since my protein intake has dropped so low since before the surgery, and my body has to learn how to function on this smaller amount.
I can't wait to CHEW SOMETHING! Anything - eggs, cottage cheese, shrimp - I think that is the hardest part for me so far. I am already planning my lunch on Thursday after the Dr's visit when I can have SOFT foods! It's not that I'm hungry really, I just want to chew something or have a different consistency to actually eat instead of just swallow. I don't want to fixate on food, and don't' want anything I shouldn't be having - I'm just ready for the next step too soon I guess.
Phil is doing terrific too – Thursday is his 6 month check up, and he has lost 111 lbs to date! He looks (and feels) awesome!
2/10/05
Update time!
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Staples are GONE!! It didn't hurt - just a little pinch on a few of them. Now my belly feels much better. A lot of the staple holes are red, and Dr Abkin said they look kind of angry, but are fine. I'm not too thrilled with the weight loss though -but I guess if I look at the whole picture it's not so bad.
294 Highest weight (beginning of 2004)
289 June 2004
276 12/2/04 - 1st PreOp Visit to Dr
265.5 1/31/05 - at home morning of surgery
271 2/2/05 - at home after hospital
254 2/10/05 - 1st Post-Op Visit to Dr
So - it's 40 lbs in 1 year ~ or 18 lbs in 2 months ~ or 11.5lbs since surgery. I was hoping for more on the 1st week - but, Hey - either way - it's better than gaining!! Right!
Now for the best part - soft foods are IN !! Phil and I went to Trader Joe's down the street from the Dr's office. We bought some frozen fish there that looked good. I have to find a fresh seafood place around here - not too keen on what the supermarkets have to offer. While we were there we picked up sushi they had made with the imitation crab legs. I ate ONE roll with the rice & crab, and then just the crab from 2 other pieces( about 4 bites!), along with 1 L/F cheese stick. - YUM! I chewed and chewed and took little bites - and was FULL - can you imagine that?? (about 10 grams of Protein altogether) Then tonight for dinner Phil sauteed Shrimp, Zucchini, and Roasted Garlic. 11 little Shrimp = 3 ozs = 21 grams, plus we also bought a can of marinated bean salad, and I had about a tablespoon = 3 grams for a total of 24 proteins for dinner - Woohoo! So far all has stayed down, I'm full but not too full. I chewed and chewed, and took about 1/2 hour to eat it. Now I will wait 30 mins to drink.
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2/14/05 ~~~ HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY !! ~~~
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I ended up going back to work this morning. I took my lunch hour at work, and left at 3:15 - so I'll be charged with 1hr 45mins PTO time. I came home and got into bed and slept soundly until Phil woke me up for dinner at 5:30. (I'm still a little sleepy but not so bad.)
Phil made a great oriental shrimp salad (mostly shrimp) for dinner. I saw the recipe last week on TV and told Phil how to make it. He follows instructions well, and is becoming a great cook! He made cucumber salad for him and the boys and the boys had crackers with theirs. There were fresh flowers on the table, red styrofoam plates, and red votive candles. It was very sweet! Nick and Jake made me a soft white Teddy Bear at Build-a-Bear, with a red heart on it's chest, it has magnet paws and nose to blow kisses, and when you squeeze his hand it says "I Love You" and Phil gave me a bunch of great bath/body stuff "Moonlight Path" from Bath & Body works, and the DVD of Seinfeld's 1st and 2nd seasons.
I'm doing well getting in my protein with out much problem. Only thing was last night we had roast pork for dinner, and after 1 ounce it got stuck. I was very uncomfortable for a little while, and took a few sips of water which helped ease the pressure. (I do not drink 30mins before or after eating, but I had to do something!) I waited a little while and had a cheese stick and was full. Good thing I had a 35gr protein drink that morning, so I got in enough protein. Water doesn't seem to be a problem either - but I like my "homemade" herbal iced tea the best.
Now the weight loss is a little disappointing. Our scale has been kinda fluky lately. I got on the scale this morning and it said I lost 17 lbs - to be sure I got off and tried it again - yup - again, 17 lbs. OK - seems too good to be true - so I shower, blow dry my hair, put the same robe back on, and before I leave the bathroom I figure - one more time, just to be sure. Low and behold - I gained 2 lbs in 1/2 hour, without leaving the room!! Go figure! ???????? So I guess I've lost 15 lbs or there abouts. I do know my work clothes did feel looser (not snug!), even my shoes were more comfy!! I'll have to get a paper/cloth tape measure so I can start keeping track of inches.
Regarding the scale issue, Phil has been getting different readings too, so he went out today and bought a new scale that you enter your height, 4 different people can use it, it stores your previous weight, and shows your new weight and BMI too. So tomorrow will be "another weigh!" LOL!!
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2/27/05 ~~ I'll be 4 weeks tomorrow.
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Time to check in –
My first week back to work was awful – If I had the choice, I would not have gone in. I only worked until 1:15 most days, then came home – had lunch, and feel into a DEEP sleep, until my WONDERFUL Husband woke me up with a kiss to tell me that dinner was ready. He has been so terrific and supportive. I haven’t made dinner in weeks. I AM SO BLESSED TO HAVE HIM AS A HUSBAND, FRIEND and LOVER. We have been married for 22 years, and have 2 wonderful sons.
My clothes seem to be starting to hang on me, I feel thinner, but the #$*&@!!! Scale does not move!! Even the BRAND NEW Scale! What’s up with that?? I swear to myself every night before I go to bed that I WILLl NOT get on the scale in the morning – I WILL wait one week and then get on –BUT NO – It calls me every morning – “Come on – you had to have lost this morning – you are hardly eating anything.” “ Go ahead - take a look!!” So then I fall for that dang nagging voice – hop on – lean this way and that way – and either I loose 4 /10ths of a pound, or gain 4 / 10ths ! – DAM!! It gets me every time!!
Water seems to be a problem with me sometimes -especially in the morning, my pouch gets kind of achy when I drink it. I do take a 16 oz bottle to bed, and sip it all night long, then try to finish it before I have my Protein Shake - 8oz milk ( 18grms protein- Designer Whey - Choc Peanut Carmel - best one so far - Hubby and I have tried MANY since his WLS 6 months ago) so before breakfast I've had 24 ozs of fluid, and 26grms protein. ( I take my vitamins with the shake)
Then I pack my breakfast- ( cottage cheese(or ricotta cheese) & fruit ( 16gr protein) and eat it when I get to work after, I take my son to school.
I also drink as much as I can before and after lunch - and I've come to love my homemade iced tea - I take a 20 oz bottle - drop in 2 caffeine free tea bags ( use your favorite flavor) and 2 packs of splenda, fill it with HOT water, put it in the fridge, and sip it all day long ( except for the 30 mins before and after eating period) For some reason my pouch likes tea better than water!?
For my lunch - either the cottage cheese again with fruit / or turkey lunch meat and a cheese stick (16grs) / or deviled eggs (l/f mayo) and a cheese stick (16 grP) // or my new favorite - solid white tuna with l/f mayo and red wine vinegar - & some cut up grape tomatoes (17 grs in 1/2 can) YUM!
By now I'm up to 44 oz of fluid and and 42 grams of protein.
Dinner is usually 4 ozs of chicken or fish - so that's my 70 grams of protein for the day.
And then another 20 ozs of tea or water before bed, and I made my 64ozs! It takes a lot of planning.
I had to have blood taken yesterday for my 1 month check-up next week, and it threw me all off. I didn't get in all my water - but am making sure I do today.
Oh - we got Chinese food for dinner last night - steamed chicken and broccoli with garlic sauce on the side - IT WAS GREAT - a real treat - I at the chicken first and a few pieces of broccoli, then had the leftovers for lunch today - YUMMY!
I will wait until my check up and see what the Dr’s scale says before I post my weight in the chart below, and get discouraged!
MARCH 2005
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MARCH 13, 2005
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My 1 month check up on March 7th, at the Drs was a little disappointing. His scale said 249 lbs which is 16.5 since surgery. I feel like I lost a lot more – may pants legs are baggy, and my sleeves are getting longer!! I TRY not to get on the scale every day, but can’t seem to help myself. Today it finally moved and I am now 244 – that’s 21.5 lbs since surgery and I’ll take it!
I am having a little problem with water first thing in the morning. I keep a 16oz bottle by my bed and try to sip all night, but it seems to hurt my tummy. It’s kind of achy like gas. I keep on drinking so I can get in my fluids and for some reason it doesn’t bother me throughout the day. The Dr. said he has heard this before and it is possible it will go away with time.
I have had 2 food related issues and will post them so that I don’t forget (I don’t mean to gross anyone out or discourage anyone – these are lessons I’ve learned, and it’s mostly about making the right choice)
Episode #1 - Before surgery, I bought a big pork loin that was on sale, and cut it up into chops and roasts. I was determined to have a pork chop – (Phil can without issue!) I lightly browned the chops and then simmered them covered in low fat cream of mushroom soup. Guess what – it went down fine this time and I was able to eat about 3 ozs without any pain! (yet!) Then about 3:15 AM I was woken up with TERRIBLE – I mean TERRIBLE PAIN in my lower abdomen. I then started to feel nauseas. Now you all know with WLS – “things” come out – shall I say “compact in the end” and I think this pork chop wanted OUT – but had to get past all the “old stuff” blocking it’s way! After much pain, and moaning, I was able to clear the way for the pork chop to “explode” onto the scene! I had a few gagging moments to but nothing came up out the top end. I went back to sleep after about a half an hour, and was pretty tired the next day. Lesson learned: - you tried 2 other times to eat pork and had problems – you’re only one month out just because Phil can eat pork doesn’t mean you can (yet I hope): not WLS person is the same – Don’t push it!
Episode # 2 had to do with a 6 foot sub sandwich I had for our son’s 16th Birthday party. I had deviled eggs and shrimp cocktail for Phil and I and a veggie salad, but the blasted sub with prosciutto, mozzarella and roasted peppers kept calling me. I cut a slice in half, took off the bread and had about a 1 ½ X 1 ½ square of just meat and cheese – Protein right?!! About 10 minutes later I just didn’t feel right and was very nauseas. It finally ended in the bathroom – I threw up for the first time, and immediately felt better. I think the meat was too fatty – although I cut off any visible fat, or probably I just at to much. Lesson learned: Don’t push it!
On a positive note, we took our now 16 year old son out to diner for his birthday last week. We went to Legal Seafood, and had a very nice dinner. They don’t charge for a sharing plate and the waiter very nicely had the kitchen plate the dinner onto 2 plates before they brought it to the table. Phil and I shared a delicious Halibut dinner with spinach and string beans. We really enjoyed ourselves.
Overall things are fine. I’ve gotten on the treadmill twice and will strive to do more. Exercise is something I really need to start working on.
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April 17, 2005
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So sorry for the delay in updating. Everything is going along fine. I feel GREAT really!
Actually I feel quite NORMAL. I don’t really feel deprived of anything. I may have had some doubts in the beginning as to “did I do the right thing having this surgery?” but they are all gone. I KNOW I DID THE RIGHT THING. I’ve gotten into a routine and have no problem getting in over 64 ozs of water each day, and at least 60grams of protein too. I’m not drinking the protein shakes anymore. I just can’t find one I really like, and I’d rather drink skim milk for the extra grams if needed.
Breakfast is usually cottage cheese with fruit. Lunch is a salad with protein – either turkey and cheese or tuna or grilled chicken. Dinner is usually protein and veggie – I never have any carbs ( potato, rice…) and I can’t believe I do not miss it. I finally was able to have pork-chops with out a problem, and we even had steak the other night. Mostly we eat chicken, or ground turkey, and usually some kind of bean or veggie.
Phil and I have been very busy. He took down all of the wallpaper in our long hallway, kitchen and dining room. Next we put 15.25 gallons of joint compound over all the walls in the hallway and gave them a textured finish – then 2 coats of paint, plus painted the trim. Then onto the kitchen and dining room – which share a 15 foot cathedral ceiling.
We used 5 different colors of paint between the walls, ceiling, and trim in the 2 rooms. I have to say – it all looks GREAT! We finally finished this afternoon. Let me tell you, it was a lot of work! Boy was I sore some mornings! Phil has all the “new found” energy now that has lost 126 lbs!, and it’s a little hard to keep up with him, although having lost my 43 lbs so far sure did help.
I am so proud of him. He went from a size 52” waist pants, and is now in a size 36”, which are a little loose! He wants to loose another 17 lbs, but I think he looks great now – well I’ve always thought he’s looked great – we’ve only been together for 29 years!
The BEST thing is he feels good, and is so much healthier.
Now for my first WOW moment. All of my clothes are getting to big. I don’t want to buy much, since I will shrink out of it, but I need clothes for work (office) – so on my lunch hour, I go to the big chicks store (the Avenue) which is basically where I buy all of my clothes. I will only buy items that are on sale – or reduced. So I go through the racks, and most everything is 30/32, 26/28(my old top & bottom size), 22/24, oh look, here is a size 18 – what the heck – I’ll see how far I’ve got to go to get into these… and GUESS WHAT – the 18’s FIT!!!! And an 18 TOP TOO!! Now I’m in the dressing room, holding back the tears, and trying to get dressed fast, so I can look for some more…BUT NOOOOO!!! Not one other pair of 18’s to be found on any of the sale racks. I am not spending $40.00 on a pair of pants I will hardly wear. So I buy the outfit, and call Phil as I drive back to work, and sob hysterically on the phone that I can’t remember the last time I wore a size 18!! I found a few other items 2 weeks ago at Kmart, which I can now put in the dryer, because they are getting big.
Well, we are going away next week to Boston for a vacation with our son’s and our dog. We’ve rented a 2 bedroom flat which has a full kitchen and a washer and dryer, which is ideal since neither Phil or I don’t really have a weeks worth of vacation clothes! We plan on going out to dinner most of the time, but this will be very convenient for breakfast and lunch. Phil and I were in Boston for the weekend in October, and we think the boys will love it – they are very much into American History. We want to visit Salem too, and maybe Cape Cod. We have tickets to a Red Sox game at Fenway, which will be a real treat ( and surprise ) for the boys!
Well – that’s all for now – I’ll try to update more frequently in the future.
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May 12, 2005
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Back from vacation! We had a very good time – even though it rained most of the time.
We really enjoyed Boston –but we did get rained out at Fenway! The flat was great and the washer and dryer came in handy! We did a little shopping, and my skinny husband Phil, now wears a men’s MED. Shirt, and a 36 inch waist pants! This from a size 3XL shirt and a 52” waist pants! – Simply amazing – This surgery has been a blessing and a miracle. He is medication free!
I’m feeling good too. I went to my 3 month check-up on May 5th. My blood work is good, just a little low in my iron stores, so I have a prescription for iron now. I’m trying to up my exercise – we’ll actually I’ll admit it – I really need to start exercising regularly.
I’ve lost 40 lbs since surgery – and I can’t believe I am in the 220’s!!! My old “tight – fat clothes” are now too big, and my newer “skinny” clothes are getting big too. I really only have 3 pair of pants and 4 shirts to wear to work, plus a pair of size 38” waist jeans, ( that used to be my son’s!!) and a few tops to wear on Fridays (dress down day at the office.)
I’m not having any real food issues – although on Mother’s Day I had fresh fruit salad (which I’ve had before) but this time with fresh pineapple in it. I think the fibers from the pineapple did not sit well in my pouch, and I felt really lousy and ended up throwing it up. I felt much better then. I really do not have any other issues with food. My pouch is even less grumpy in the morning, and I have no more trouble drinking water like before. I am even able to swallow the big calcium pills now too.
We found a new protein drink that is tolerable. Isopure Apple Melon. It’s not bad, and we are trying to up our protein. We are making the 60 grams with out it – and just adding 1 shake to boost it up a little.
All in all – I’m feeling very good about my decision to have this surgery. I really think Phil and I have been blessed. We are going to attend the OH conference next weekend and are really looking forward to it. That’s all for now!
April 2005 - Phil 175 ~ Sher 229
May 21, 2005 - 221 lbs!!
May 21, 2005 - 170 lbs!!
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MAY 30, 2005
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Phil and I had a GREAT time at the OH Conference last weekend. We met lots of nice people, and were able to sample many great products. We really enjoyed ourselves. Most of the break out seminars we attended were very helpful. It was a real pleasure meeting Susan Maria Leach from Bariatriceating.com, she is such an inspiration to me, and I am sure to others. Susan’s booth was all about “samples”! They had AchieveOne in a slushy maker and handed out cupfuls all day long – YUM!! This is some GOOD stuff! She also mixed Nectar Lemon Tea with Crystal Light Peach Tea, and Nectar Fuzzy Navel with Crystal Light Sunrise Orange – both were really GOOD! Both are Protein drinks we found that actually like!! I won a 12pk of the AchieveOne in a drawing that they held, and on the last day, Susan’s wonderful husband Ty, handed me what was left in the big tub of Nectar Roadside Lemonade that they were using as samples. I have been mixing it like this almost everyday: First I make a pitcher of Crystal Light Sunrise Orange, then I fill my 24 ounce water bottle ¾ of the way full with it and put the rest of the pitcher in the fridge. Then, I add 1 scoop, ( 23 proteins) of the Nectar Roadside Lemonade to the Crystal Light in the bottle and give it a good shake. I then fill it the rest of the way with ice, and shake some more. I bring that bottle to work, keep it in the fridge there, and drink it all afternoon after lunch. My problem with the Nectar Protein drink in the past has been that it gets clumpy. I think the ice, and the pre-mixing and letting it sit for a few hours really helps.
It was also great meeting Bo and Monica as well. Amy Williams gave a wonderful speech, and Susan Maria was great as the Keynote speaker as well. It was nice to share lunch and stories with fellow WLS folks too! I just think it’s so amazing that now that I am on the loosing side – I have no problem telling total strangers how much I weigh, and weighed! I mean, before surgery, God forbid anyone knew how much I weighed. Now, I blurt it out to total strangers over a few pieces of cheese and a couple of meatballs!! I’m not as comfortable telling those numbers to those who know me (family, friends and co-workers), but I think it’s just great to be able to be comfortable enough and interact with people, who know what you are going through, and don’t judge you, but encourage you!
I would highly recommend attending an OH Event if you are ever able to do so!
I now weigh 219 lbs!! I AM NO LONGER MORBIDLY OBESE - I AM "JUST OBESE" - WOW! I have been feeling great lately. Phil and I have been trying to walk every night after work and dinner. I am actually starting to look forward to walking! I bought a new pair of sneakers and it has made a difference on how long I can walk. We try to walk for 1 hour. I had what I guess was a dumping episode when I ate frozen mixed veggies with corn – I think the corn did me in - yuck! After a while of feeling terrible – nauseous and runny nose - I kind of forced myself to throw-up and get it over with, but it was mostly just phlegm that I got rid of – after about ½ hour I felt better. Then the other night, Phil and I had a small cup (1scoop) of frozen yogurt. Both of us got the rumbling in our tummies and that sick feeling – mine was accompanied with a runny nose. We both laid down on our bed and complained to each other (why did we eat that?) and then felt better after about ½ hour.
This weekend we cleaned out and knocked down our old shed, and cleaned out our garage too. We did some yard clean-up and ended up filling a 30 cubic yard dumpster with years of accumulated “junk!” We were lucky that we had great weather. I had a hard time keeping up with Phil, but I think I did pretty well. It really felt good to be able to get out there and accomplish all that work. Next weekend we will have a garage sale and get rid of more “stuff” that we have had hanging around. I hope we have good weather.
Well that’s all for now! I’ll check in again soon!
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JUNE 14TH 2005 - MY 44TH BIRTHDAY!
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WOW - I can't believe I am 44 today - where did the time go?
I look back and count my many blessings - my WONDERFUL husband Phil, our 2 GREAT sons - Nick and Jake - we are truly blessed to have our healthy, loving and wonderful boys! I am blessed with 2 loving parents, and a very close and terrific family. I am very happy at my job of 25 years. I've moved around many places in this company, and am now at my happiest working for a wonderful boss.
I sit here with 2 beautiful bouquets of flowers on my desk, one from Phil and the boys, and one from my boss and his family. I have on a new necklace and bracelet from 2 of my friends and co-workers. There is a counter full of cards wishing me a Happy Birthday!
I had a "make-over" on Saturday and used a gift certificate that Phil gave me for Christmas. I was treated to an aromatherapy facial, a spa hand treatment and manicure and pedicure, a scalp treatment and hair conditioner, a hair cut & blow dry, and make-up application. I will post a picture of my new look below.
I had to do some clothes shopping since everything was getting big again, and bought hot pink jeans - can you believe it!! ( I can't!!) and a skirt!! all in size 14/16W!! I am just amazed!! I even bought a new bathing suit in a size 16W. The best part is new BRAS!!! What a difference! From a 42DD to a 40B! I don't even miss the "big girls!" My old big clothes were a size 26/28W!!! This is truly amazing!! I am feeling GREAT!
Phil the boys and I are going out to the Cheesecake Factory for my Birthday Dinner tonight! I'm down to 215 lbs!! When I ironed my slacks this morning - I couldn't believe the were mine because the look so small!! I AM NO LONGER MORBIDLY OBESE!! LIFE IS GOOD!
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July 6, 2005
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A question was posted the other day on the boards that asked : What is the hardest thing about WLS? It gave me a chance to reflect on my journey so far.
I think the hardest part for me ( right now ) is believing that this will work, and grasping the fact that I’ve lost 68 lbs so far. I’ve been very blessed no complications.
Another hard part is getting the mindset to become more physically active and exercise more. My other concern is the daily hair loss – that’s the one part I am not happy with, but will trust what I have read that is only temporary. I’ve also found that if I get out of my daily routine ( like on the weekends) I am more likely to forget my vitamins, or at least some of them, that is something I really must work on
I had trouble with the water in the beginning. My pouch was “grumpy” and did not really like water in it in the morning. It’s “all better now” and no longer is bothered by
water. To make sure you get in at least 64 ounces – I would say you have to get into a routine or schedule. I also found that at that time – I tolerated Herbal Tea much better than water. I would put 2 teabags in a 24 ounce water bottle with 2 packs of Splenda and fill it with HOT water. I would then bring it to work and sip it at room temperature all day long.
Now I take a 16.9 oz bottle of water to bed with me. I use it to take my evening vitamins ( 2nd multi of the day & calcium) Since this is usually @ 11:00pm, I count this as my first water for the next day ( I sip it if I wake up at night, all night through, and finish it while I am getting ready for work)
Then I make a protein drink in a 24 ounce squeeze water bottle. I fill it 2/3’s of the way with Crystal Light Iced Tea, 1 scoop of Nectar Lemon Tea, shake, fill the rest of the way with ice cubes and shake some more. I bring this to work with me, and squeeze it into a cup and make sure I finish it by noon.
After Lunch I take my big red 16 oz cup to the water cooler and fill it up. I then drink it and hopefully another one by 5pm. After dinner, it’s another 16.9 oz bottle around 7:30 – I sometimes take one with me when I walk and sip as I go, or sip as I work on the computer. Then it’s time to take my vitamins and start the next day’s bottle. So I guess I get in 74 – 90 ozs per day. It does take a lot of work and planning, but I do think I loose better and feel better if I get in all the water.
On another note, I went to get my “mammies gramed” yesterday, for my one year check-up, and all is well. The technician took the films to the Dr. to read, and then came back in a little while later and said “ The Dr. was wondering if you have lost a significant amount of weight since your last momogram?” To which I replied yes I have. She then asked how much, and I replied almost 70 lbs. She said “Wow – you go girl! That’s great. He was concerned that either you had lost a lot of weight, or that I missed a lot of breast tissue!”
P.S. – Just to update on the Cheesecake Factory Birthday dinner – Phil and I brought home and shared a piece of cheesecake for dessert. – At first I looked at the 20+ flavors on the menu and thought – what the heck, it’s my birthday – right !! Then the more I thought about it, the sillier it seemed to be eating healthy, loosing weight, and then take the chance that I would dump or feel lousy if I picked something that I shouldn’t really be eating. So, I ordered their low carb Splenda cheesecake – and it was delicious! I couldn’t even eat ½ of it, and I was satisfied, full and not stuffed. Best of all – my brain, taste buds, and tummy were happy too!
Here is a pic of me on June 4th '05 after my "make-over"
215 lbs:
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JULY 27th - ALMOST 6 MONTHS!
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I HIT ONE-DER LAND TODAY!! 199.8 LBS THIS MORNING !!!
I will be 6 months out on Sunday the 31st, but we will be in Myrtle Beach on vacation! Phil is insisting on bringing the scale. He will be 1 year out on Aug 2nd and has now lost a total of 136 lbs and doing GREAT!! He is 164 now - down from 300, and wanted to be at 160 by his 1 year Anniversary. I think he is great just where he is - but that's the number he is looking for!
I was hoping to be under "200" before vacation, but wasn't sure I would get there. I really can't believe it. I am now in a size 14 W!
(Those pink jeans in the pic above are a 16W and getting big on me!) I can't wait to be able to stop using the W after my clothes size! When I loose 8.8 more pounds, I will no longer be Obese - just Overweight! My Mom said to stay where I am - I look good now - don't loose too much or you will look sickly. She just doesn't get it. Sometimes that gets me frustrated. I know it's just because she loves me and worries about me - but I've never been thin, and she's struggled with her weight all her life. I don't want to anymore!
Anyway -- We have plans to walk alot while we are away. We are looking forward to getting away for these 2 weeks! I've got the protein powder packed and ready to go - we are driving - so there will be water and yogart in the cooler, and beef jerky up front with us! I am a Planner and love to know what I am doing and when, so we have no problem keeping on the right path!
Ok - I'll check in again in 2 weeks!
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Aug 14th – Phil 1 year (8/2) and Sher 6 month (7/31) UPDATE !
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Where do I begin? We just returned from a family vacation to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. It was a heck of a 2 weeks! The first week was spent with 12 other family members in a beautiful 7-bedroom condo on the beach – well that is everyone but Phil spent that 1st week there.
We arrived on Saturday, July 30th at about 2:00pm. After checking into the condo, and unloading everyone’s stuff – the “girl’s” went food shopping, and the “guys” stayed at home. When I left, Phil was starting to have some pain in his lower back, and was going to lie down. Just when we were almost finishing shopping, Phil called and said he was in terrible pain and couldn’t take it anymore ( he has a high pain threshold, so I was concerned.) I rushed home, and my brother-in-law came to the store to pick up the girls and the food. I took Phil to the only emergency room that we knew of in the area at the Grand Strand Medical Center ( a place we have driven by over the last 16 years while vacationing in Myrtle Beach, and had always hoped we would never have to visit!)
I informed anyone who would listen of Phil’s medical history – specifically his RNY G.B. They asked his symptoms, took a urine sample and did a CAT scan. We had also called our Gastric Bypass Dr’s office (Dr. Abkin), and Phil spoke to Dr. Popkova as we were entering the emergency room, and she asked that we call her and let her know what was going on. They diagnosed Kidney stones, even though the urine test came back with no blood in it (not uncommon we were told) and the CAT scan was not conclusive, but did show something in the lower right of the kidney. We took a BIG sigh of relief that it wasn’t RNY related, and were sent home with pain meds and a strainer. Kidney stones are not “fun” at anytime – and even worse on vacation! They almost sent us home with a prescription for an anti-inflammatory, but I questioned the nurse, and she then questioned the Dr., who thanked me for pointing this out to him again. We contacted Dr. Popkova, to advise her of what was going on, and to confirm the pain meds (tylox) were OK, and she also said no anti-inflammatory drug. She told us to call her if we needed her. Phil spoke to my Dad, who had a stone in the past, and his symptoms were identical, so that’s what we thought it was, and I kept making him drink to flush out the stone so he would feel better.
Now Monday night comes – no stone – same pain and running out of pain meds. The E.R. said he had to come in to be re-evaluated before he could get any more pain meds. Phil didn’t want to spend the night in the E.R., so we got up early and were there by 7:00AM. ~~ Please note – it is Tuesday, August 2nd, 2005 – EXACTLY 1 year to the day of Phil’s G.B. Surgery!!) ~~ I again advised every one of his past RNY surgery. They did another CAT scan, and this E.R. Doctor came in and said they didn’t see any stones, but saw fluid in his belly, and he thinks it is something bypass related. I immediately called Dr. Abkin’s office and told them what was going on, asked them to have Dr. Abkin call the E.R. Dr. ASAP! Dr. Bertha, his associate called an about 8:00am advised the E.R. to suspect a hernia and call in a surgeon. The surgeon, Dr. Mark Borowicz, came in and said that he wanted to do a CAT scan with contrast first – he didn’t want to cut if he didn’t have to. That takes some time to do this test, drinking some stuff, then waiting etc… Meanwhile, Phil was given pain meds and wasn’t in too much pain. I was very scared. We were 700 miles (@ 12 hours ) from home. We didn’t know these Dr.s or their abilities. This hospital or this Dr. did not perform RNY’s.
I called Dr. Abkin’s office again, and was a little upset with the response of the staff. I understand that Dr. Abkin was in surgery, but 2 of the people in the office basically said there is nothing the Dr. can do from 1000 miles away. He can’t diagnose from the phone. (I will take this up personally with Dr. Abkin when I see him later this month.) I was insistent that I speak to him, since Dr. Borowicz came back with the results of the new CAT scan and was of the opinion to wait it out overnight, admit Phil and see if he felt any better the next day. The staff agreed to email Dr. Abkin, who called me on my cell phone immediately, and said they had been waiting to hear from Dr. Borowicz. Dr. Abkin said we could not wait. Things would only get worse. He needs to speak to the Dr. and Phil needs to at least be explored right away. I walked back into the E.R. with Dr. Abkin on my cell phone, tracked down the E.R. Doctor, and handed him my cell phone to speak with Dr. Abkin. After their conversation, he assured me that he would have Dr. Borowicz speak with Dr. Abkin right away. About 10 minutes later, Dr. Borowicz came in, and said they were brining Phil into surgery in the next few minutes. He would explore laproscopically, but any hernia repairs would be through an open incision. We had no choice. It was 4:30 when they wheeled him toward the O.R. and said it would take about 1 hour. Boy was I scared, boy did I pray!
About 1 hour and 15 minutes went by, and the Dr.’s assistant came out to tell me what was going on. They did have to make an open incision (about 8 inches in length from the bellybutton up.) They did find a hernia in the bowel (they referred to it as a Peterson’s Hernia.) The Dr. repaired it, and the bowel looked fine – all pink and healthy. While was there, he found his gall bladder to be distended and filled with stones, so he was in the process of removing it when she came out to tell me what was happening. Phil’s vitals were all great, and he was doing fine. The Dr. came out when he was all through and told me Phil did great, and he was glad he listened to Dr. Abkin and didn’t wait, or Phil would have been in real trouble. Phil would be in recovery for a little while, and then go to his room.
By 8:00 pm, they brought him to his room. I must say the rooms were quite large, and all private. They had no problem with me staying the night, and even brought in a cot for me. Phil was in terrible pain, and I kept telling him when every 10 minutes had past to push the button on this morphine pump. The nurses were great at the hospital too, and Phil received excellent care. The only problem was the food. Clear liquids to start. It was difficult to get sugarfree jello. They gave him Boost Protein Drink – which is full of carbs and sugars! I brought him Isopure shakes that I made at home later in the week.
Phil was able to leave the hospital on Friday at about 2:00pm. He got to spend the last night of the 1st week with his sister and brothers, and we all went out to dinner. Phil had a crab cake appetizer for his first meal. All his new size 34 shorts didn’t fit him since he was so swollen ad filled with fluid. He had hoped to reach his goal of 160lbs by his one-year anniversary, but weighed 173 upon returning from the hospital. (He had been 164 when we started vacation, and yes, we did bring a scale – although it wasn’t my idea!!) He was pretty upset by this, but I kept telling him its water weight and swelling!
On Saturday, Aug 6th, the rest of our family ended their vacation, and Phil, Nick (16) Jake(10) and I moved to a smaller 2 bedroom condo that we rented, since we had planned on staying for 2 weeks. It was on a golf course, with a pool, and good luck would have it be on the ground floor. It was the ideal place for Phil to continue to recuperate from his operation. Nick was a big help and I am thankful he has grown into such a strong young man, since Phil was unable to lift anything. His pain did lessen the 2nd week, but was still always there. The pain meds made him very tired too. We were able to sit by the pool on the days it didn’t rain, and go out to dinner each night. My usually shopping spree’s were skipped this vacation, and we had a very relaxing time. We were together, and Phil is healthy and healing. That is what is important!
Our original plan was to drive home – straight up Hwy 95 on Saturday, Aug 13th. Since Phil could not drive, and didn’t want to spend 12 straight hours in the car, we decided to go half way on Saturday and arrive home on Sunday. I ended up driving 6 ½ hours on Saturday, and we spent a relaxing evening in Fredericksburg, VA at a very nice Wingate Inn. We left on Sunday at 10:00am, and arrived home a little before 3:00pm. Phil took pain meds and slept a little.
Even though this vacation did not go as we had planned, we are thankful for many things! We are thankful we were not on a cruise ship, or in a foreign country! Thank goodness we had our family there to take care of our sons while I was at the hospital with Phil. If this had happened the 2nd week of our vacation, when it was just the 4 of us, I don’t know what we would have done! I thank each of them for being there for our sons and us. They took them to the beach, out to dinner, for ice cream and to mini golf. We are truly blessed for Phil’s health, and for their love and support.
I want to thank my boss who took my frantic phone call and tracked down one of our employees who lives in Myrtle Beach, and I thank John, (that co-worker) who came out of a meeting and called me within 5 minutes to assure me that he hasn’t heard an horror stories out of that hospital, and he an his wife are available if we need them for anything. Also, thanks to our families, friends and co-workers at home. Their prayers, love and support helped us get through this scary time. Thanks also to Dr. Abkin, for your insistence on having the surgeon proceed and not wait. Dr. Borowicz said at least 4 times after the surgery, and in his office when Phil had the 30 staples removed on Thursday, “ I’m glad your guy pushed me and we didn’t wait.”
Lessons learned:
1) Just because you tell a Dr. about your surgery, doesn’t mean they know what to look for. I think we should have questioned the first Dr. more on Saturday when the Kidney Stone diagnosis was questionable, but I think we were too relieved to hear it wasn’t bypass related. Phil never had Kidney Stones and was lucky no damage was done to his bowel by waiting.
2) I would not let this experience keep me from traveling. What I will do in the future is try to research hospitals in the area where I am traveling to, before I go. There was a hospital 30 minutes away that does do bypass surgery, and probably could have performed this surgery on Phil laproscopically, which would have cut down on his healing, pain and recovery time.
3) When choosing a surgeon for your bypass – ask him what is his policy for emergency phone calls – especially when you are traveling or away from home. Again, we are blessed to have Dr. Abkin!
4) Be insistent ( but nice) with the Dr.’s office staff if you think you need to speak to your Doctor. If I had been put off by their comments, and listened to them, I may have agreed with the surgeon to wait a day and who knows what kind of trouble Phil might have been in.
5) While at the Dr’s office to have his staples removed last week, we showed the Dr. and his staff Phil’s “before” picture. They were all amazed and couldn’t believe it was the same person. One of them asked, would he do it again, I guess figuring on all that he just went through. In a heartbeat, Phil answered “Yes – with out a doubt.”
Friday, Phil got on the scale and weighs 157 lbs. He is getting back his appetite and will work on getting in more protein now that we are back home.
I weighed 196.5 on Friday too – so I lost some through all that craziness!
New Pics from Myrtle Beach (after Phil's surgery):
Jake, Nick, Sher & Phil 8/9/05
Sher 6 months ( 197 lbs) Phil 1 year (157 lbs)
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September 6, 2005
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Phil and I went for my 6 month and Phil's 1 yr check up on 8/25. Dr. Abkin said he was very happy to see me, but even more happy to see Phil. He said he told the surgeon in South Carolina that he would hold him “medically responsible” if he did not immediately take Phil into surgery and explore him to see if he had a hernia. He also said that this type of hernia ( Peterson’s) was very rare, he has only seen it 2 or 3 times. We were very lucky. I am very glad that I pushed as hard as I did to speak to Dr. Abkin ( he said he will take care of this with his staff – in fact, on of the people I spoke to in his office no longer works there.) and that I was with Phil and had enough knowledge about this surgery to know that something just wasn’t right – and that waiting, as the surgeon in S.C. wanted to do wasn’t right.
Phil has had a very slow recovery from this surgery. He also has very low iron levels, and has begun iron infusion treatments, once per week, for 6 weeks, 3 hrs each time. He has had 2 so far, and has been told that by his 3rd, he should feel much better. His digestion has not been great either since the gall bladder was removed ( food goes right through him.) He still hasn’t returned to work, and Dr. Abkin said he will re-evaluate him next week to see if he is ready to go back. As of today, Phil has gained back some pounds, and now weighs 160lbs. Who would have thought 1 year ago that he had to try to gain weight! I just pray every night that he continues to feel better each day.
Today I weighed in at 190 lbs !! WOW!! I AM NO LONGER OBESE !! I AM "JUST" OVERWEIGHT! I went shopping on Saturday, and bought a size 12 dress pants for work!! They actually fit (although a little snug) I really can’t believe this – I have checked and double checked the tags to make sure there is not some kind of mistake!
Yesterday was the 4 year Anniversary of my total hysterectomy. I can’t believe 4 years have passed. I have been truly blessed by having no complications or problems with either of these 2 life changing surgeries, and have had the help and support from my wonderful husband through both of them.
School starts tomorrow – Nick will be a junior this year and my baby Jake will be going into 5th grade. How quickly they grow.
That's all for now!
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OCTOBER 15, 2006
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Boy - time sure flies when you are busy! Can't believe I haven't posted in over a month! Everything is going well - Phil went back to work on the 4th after being out from his emergency surgery while on vacation! He is back to his "new" self, and feels as good as he felt right before vacation. He completed t