Hi everyone. It's been a long time since I've been here to DT on a regular basis.
Most of you know me as a long time member of over 5 years now. You know the struggles I've had with my weight. Every time I enjoyed a small success, I would find a way to mess it up, gain it back plus more.

I have come to the conclusion that I will never lose this weight on my own. There is no solution I can find and live with, that will allow me to enjoy a life free of this fat.
After much thought, I have made my decision to have gastic by-pass surgery. After making this decision, I informed my family that this is what I'm going to do.
In my family, Dan is pretty much the boss (or so he thinks LOL) I didn't ask him his opinion, I didn't ask his permission, I just told him this is how it's going to be. To my surprise, he was completely supportive.

I have already seen one doctor and am waiting to see a specialist to start my battery of tests. Meanwhile, I will be making an appointment for a consultation at the clinic where I'll be having the surgery.

As most of you know, I am Canadian. Here, the wait is very long to see each doctor and the process is very slow. You need proof and documentation of your weight loss efforts, you need to see an assortment of doctors before even being considered a candidate, and the death rate is 1-50.
I will be going to a clinic in Michigan that specializes only in this surgery. They do more surgeries in one week then Toronto does in a year. In the 16 years they have been open, they have not lost one patient.

I'm hoping these wheels will move quickly. I'm so ready.
I know there is down time afterward, but it's relatively short because it will be done laparoscopic.

I don't consider my decision as cheating. I have given my weight loss efforts so much time and energy, and it has consumed so much of my life. I know I have tried and given it my all and that is just not good enough. I know obesity owns me and no matter how hard I try, I just can't break free. This is a decision to give a last ditch effort to save my life.
I know about the pain, the possible complications, the restricted lifestyle regarding food, but to me these are all worth it.
Believe me, if I could "act as if" and just change my eating habits with out the surgery, I would. Seems so simple, but so does quitting smoking... just don't do it. LOLOLOL Well, if we could just do that with food, there would be no use for this site LOL.

So, that's the choice I have made. I'm happy about it, and I look forward to it.
I like my life now, but I'll be able to enjoy my life then, when I have mobility and energy.

I can't wait to play outside with my kids and not huff and puff. I can't wait to try scuba diving. I can't wait to go to an amusement park and ride the roller costers. These are a few of the things I'm missing out on now. These are the memories I want to create.

Welcome back! I wish you the best of luck jumping through all the hoops that you are going to be facing!

Keep us posted on your progress and what you are doing in the meantime!

This is a paragraph I copied from someone's reply regarding their thoughts on the surgery. I wanted to share it and comment on it.


I* would not have the sense of accomplishment and personal satisfaction that I currently feel if I had gone that route. I did this *myself*, just by making my own healthy choices (with help from all of my buddies here!). I don't think that for me, looking in a mirror at a thinner body that surgery made would feel the same.

I am so very glad for their sense of accomplishment. I so envy that feeling. Knowing that I can never feel that for any length of time just hurts me to the bone and in fact, causes me to feel depressed.
I know I will never feel that same sense of accomplishment, but after surgery, after losing a significant amount of weight, I'm sure I will feel a different sense of accomplishment. A feeling that ''I'' did what ever had to be done to reach my goal. The suffering, the pain, the restricted lifestyle, those are things that "I" will have done to help me reach my goal. They will give me a sense of accomplishment.
Surgery may seem like the easy way out, but if you really look at it, is it? These are the sacrifices I will make to reach my goal since all my other efforts have always been in vain.

Thanks Mel.... it's good to be back.

Hi, I just saw your new journal :) Don't worry about what other people think, you need to do what is right for you and they can do what is right for them. It's your body and your decision! You are the only one who lives in your body. I've reached the point where I no longer am able to invest emotionally in what other people think about what I chose to do with my own body, especially my weight.

Gastric bypass is not just about not allowing you to eat as much food. It redirects your alimentary canal so that different messages are sent to the brain about hunger and appetite and all that. I'm sure you know all of this, but I think a lot of people don't know that it's not as simple as just not being physically able to eat as much food.

It sucks that the wait times in Canada are so long. It sure would be nice to have the service-oriented American medical system with Canadian prices :)

Good luck with all the details!! It sounds like you've really thought about it and researched good surgeons. Are you doing a pre-surgery weight loss plan? I don't know a lot about GBP but I know that a lot of centers like to jumpstart things with losing some weight before surgery. Do you have a date yet or anything?

Sorry for all the questions, I hope this isn't too long. Good to have you back :)

Nausicaa, Thanks for your kind words. I need to remember them!
I am quite fortunate that I live close to the Canadian/ American border. I will be having my surgery in the States and my medical coverage will cover the cost as well as some skin issues in the future.
I have no dates yet. I still have lots of work to do before an appointment is booked. I'm hoping by Christmas if I'm lucky.
I haven't had my consult yet so I don't have my weight loss plan in place. I know they like a rapid weight loss just before surgery to shrink the organs so surgery is easier.
I'm really hoping I can get this done quicker, but since I'm also dealing with the Canadian medical system as well, I fear I'm in for a wait.

I know I will never feel that same sense of accomplishment

Hi Fluereange - we don't know each other, but i thought I'd jump right in here anyway, lol. I've been around here (off and on) for about 10 yrs.

I see no reason why you shouldn't feel the same sense of accomplishment as anyone else! This surgery isn't going to be a 'piece of cake'. (unfortunately! :D) There's the surgery itself and then there's the disipline to limit your foods afterwards. Some people may say it's the easy way out, but it's not! Some people at DT will say they're disappointed in the way you're doing it. Too bad for them. This is YOUR decision and yours alone! I think it's better to have the surgery and improve your health NOW then to keep attempting diet after diet and 5 yrs. from now still be in the same boat you're in now. I had a friend who had it done and she's done fantastic. Not only does she look great, she feels great and her health is much improved. Don't let anyone bring you down.

Let us know when you find out something? Hope things progress faster than you think! Take care and good luck!

I know I just posted, but I have to post again.

I am really proud of you for making such a big decision to fight for your health. This is a tough thing you have decided to do, and you are a strong woman for accepting that this is right for you and having the courage to go ahead with it. A lot of people will say "I would never do that -- too easy!" and a lot of others will say "I could never do that -- too hard!" The truth is that it doesn't matter what other people will and can never do.

People seem to think that it's fine to have kidney stone surgery or Lasik, but gastric bypass somehow gives them the right to make it about willpower. No surgeon in her right mind is going to go ahead with a GBP that's not medically indicated, just like no surgeon is going to remove a gall bladder for no reason. It's a medical procedure, not a reflection on you. "Bob is such a quitter, he decided to have his ruptured appendix removed." Oh please.

It sucks that in this world people probably will judge you for making this decision. First we get judged for being fat, then we get judged for the way we lose weight (whichever way that might be), and then we get judged for being thin. I think the best thing to do, honestly, is to accept right away that this is -- for better or worse -- a still somewhat controversial procedure, and the society we live in tells us that it's okay to judge someone for doing it. Fine -- but you decide what's right for you, and that's as far as it goes.

But I don't think you will spend the rest of your life wondering how much more "accomplished" you would have felt if you had done it without surgery. What a waste of energy! :laugh: You are going to feel accomplishment for doing what YOU did. How many hours of sleep do you lose over not having accomplished becoming the Prime Minister (Ministress?) of Canada? I hope not too many. You will feel a tremendous sense of accomplishment because YOU did what was right for YOU.

Okay, time to get off my soapbox.... :)

Hi Mel and welcome. Glad you stopped in. Both you and Nausicaa make valid points. I pretty much feel the same way. This is my journey, my choice and I will have to live with it for the rest of MY life. I will suffer pain, I will lose weight, I will be healthier, I will feel good and I will have my own sense of accomplishment for doing it. It may differ then the author of the above mentioned quote, but it will be just as satisfying to me.
I'm not letting any judging affect me.... either about my weight or about the surgery. I know THIS is something I CAN do and that will give me a great sense of accomplishment.
As Frankie said.. I DID IT MY WAY.... LOL.

Hi Fleur,

Bravo to you for making a difficult decision. Sounds as though you have thought it through and quite frankly i have not lived your life ( walked in your shoes) so it certainly isn't for any of us to cast judgement you r way.

I do know they will do a battery of tests on your emotional state( if they haven't already) . My neighbors son is in the process right now, he wanted a lapband but after all the personality profiles they told him he has a true food addiction and needs a bypass.

He is in the process of paperwork, i wish you the best!

Hi Dar :)
i am so happy to see you back with a new journal.
i am a big believer in people needing to do what is right for them... for example i know that for me Atkins etc wont work..i cannot restrict my eating that much.. what i do to lose weight and keep it off may not work for the next person.
i am so proud of you for making the decision that is RIGHT for YOU!!!!!! i am especially proud that Dan was supportive of your decision..
I dont see surgery as any quick fix or easy way out as i have heard it referred to before..the fight will still be there for sure and you have plenty to be proud of already with yor weight loss efforts.
i am behind you 100% my friend.
hugs bell :)

Hey buddy ! so good to see you again :jn

I had posted a note from your boyfriend in food for thought a bit ago :D

def have missed you


I love the posts left for you...all so very true

Mels post is so true as surgery is no quick fix but might be the catalyst you need to get there


I know people who have had it and been great, and I know some who have regained thier weight, it is like anything... it still requires a lot of effort


if I was not so chicken about going under I might even try it

you are brave and I am glad you are taking whatever steps it takes to get healthier


I would support you in almost anything you tried (starvation is off the list as well as hard core drugs lol)


I will be interested in what you do to get ready etc


and I def will be cheering you on :cheer:

maybe all that cheering will help me burn some cals too lol



luv ya



:love: Peng xo

Peng,- I was chicken too, and still am, but finding out they haven't lost a patient in 16 years really helped make my decision. I'm afraid of the pain, I'm afraid of the changes the new lifestyle will bring, but I'm willing to set it aside and go for it. The 1-50 chance of dying was the deal breaker for me before. I know there's still a chance, but my odds are so much better at this clinic.
Doing my homework really helped too.
I know this isn't for everyone. I'll be honest, it wasn't for me either. I figured I didn't need to take such drastic steps, but I realize, that is my only way.
Thanks for always being there for me and supporting me.

Bell,- I knew Atkins wasn't for everyone. That really is a tough one to follow. The good thing for me about it is the very same reason it wasn't good for you... it eliminated certain foods.
Many do WW and count points, counting was something I just couldn't do. Even on Atkins, I didn't count carbs.
I know surgery is drastic and def not for everyone. For me, it's my last ditch effort to remove the fat from my body and keep it off.
Thanks for having my back and supporting me. When I start feeling nervous before the surgery and feeling like crap afterward, I'll really be needing that support LOL.

Judith,- From what I understand, they interview you to see how serious you are about the surgery, and the reasons why you want it. If you just want to fit into your bikini, chances are they won't touch you.
In Canada, you have to have much more psychological testing and I'd have to see an assortment of other doctors. I'd prob have to travel to Toronto (4 hours away) at least 15 times and I'd have to have proof of my weight loss efforts.
In the states it's much easier. That's not saying they let just anybody get it done, but there is so much less red tape.
I still need to find out if I'm a good candidate. (I believe I am since I have no real health issues besides the weight)
I hope your neighbour's son's surgery goes well.

I didn't get the phone call yesterday telling me when I can see the endocrinologist. The one I wanted to see has a year waiting list for new patients so I'll be seeing a new guy in the area and should only take a month to get in. I just wish they'd call.
Once I get the call, I'm going to call the clinic and book my consultation which is only a week's wait. I just want to make sure I have my appointment booked first before the consult.

The surgery hasn't been mentioned again around here. I've decided not to bother bringing it up. When I book my consult, I'll let him know, but as for the endocrinologist appointment and the testing, I'll just keep it to myself.
I guess I feel this way because all the times I've tried to lose weight, he's always though I was all talk because nothing ever came out of it. I don't want him to think I'm all talk this time. This time there's no talk, just action. This time I'm not looking for approval or a pat on the back. This time, like it or not, I'm doing it.
In fact, when I told him, I told him I made a decision and I'm having it done. I told him I was going to the states and told him I was doing it for me. I didn't ask or do the "what do you think" thing. Nope, I TOLD him.
He was surprised but all for it.
He may regret that LOL. Since he's such a jealous person to begin with, I'm gonna end up with a monster on my hands. I'll just have to deal with that when the time comes.

I'm off to get some work done. I'll be carrying my phone around so I won't miss the call for my endocrinologist appointment. :D

Have a good one.

Hi Dar!!

Looks like we both came back around the same time. How are you hunny??? First and foremost...GOOD FOR YOU!!! Who gives a "flip" LOL (Codys new curse word!!!) what other ppl think of the way you choose to live YOUR life! If surgery is the route you want to take then do it and do it with your head high.

No two people are the same. What works for one wont work for the other. This is your decision and do it with pride. I agree that it will fully have its own sense of accomplishment!! You'll rock it and finally be set free.

I hope all works well for you in the time leading up to the appt. I am sure the hurdles will be plentiful but keep smiling, seek love and support and you'll get there all in good time.

xoxo
Shan

PS...missed you hun :)

Hi Dar :wave:

As I shared with you in the other thread - I am 100% supportive of this choice of yours. I know you are not taking this lightly and have/are looking into all points of it :)

Hey Dar, So nice to have you back here, you are always missed. Hope this all goes well for you, and doesn't take too long to get it booked. Will be praying for excellent recovery from the surgery. I don't know, I think it will be at least as hard at any 'get healthy' plans others are doing here, maybe harder, because it is such an extreme food restriction. You will do it, you have descided and you will make it work. Looking forward to the progress photos!!!!!!!!!

Dar,

So glad to have you back hunny! Missed you terribly. Do what's best for you. You've obviously researched this and thought about it long, hard, and carefully - anyone who has negative remarks is probably doing so out of speculation. Glad to hear that DH is wholeheartedly supporting you.

:hug:
MD

Good to see you back. I think that surgery sounds like a pretty good idea. You are not ill-informed, or expect it to solve all of your problems. You are an adult, and know that it is a first and very drastic step that can help you change your life. You know the risks, and have thought about the trade-offs. I'm pulling for you.

I should also mention that I would seriously consider surgery if it becomes obvious that I can't maintain my own weight loss over years and years. I had almost done it before I started on my last program, but my doctor seemed to think that I could make it this time (big life-changing stuff already happening in my life).

Spouses can be very convoluted. Yep. Have a great week.

Hi Darlene - hope you're doing okay. How are your plans coming? :)

Hi Dar,
how is everything going? havent seen a post from you in a while so just wanted to check in with ya.
hugs bell :)

Hello everyone and thanks for stopping in.
Been really busy around here and today is no exception. If Dan catches me on the puter, I'm gonna hear about it since there is sooooo much work to do.

Anyway, just wanted to post real quick about the latest on the surgery front.

I go to the specialist July 10 to start my testing. I haven't made the consult appointment at the clinic yet, but I'd like that done before I go to the specialist.

I'm really pumped about it, and nervous too, but I'm determined.

Well, got to run... I'm already pushing my luck LOL

Glad to see you popping in even if you just have a minute. Good news on the appointment that is not too long to wait.

Pat

Hi Dar: Being pumped about your surgery and nervous also is quite normal... I have spoken to a couple of other folks in the US (Bed Bath & Beyond) one employee had the laparoscopic pass and another's mother in law had it at 64.. and both are doing very well and have lost tons of weight..
Your determination and following their eating plan will help you enormously.. I know you know it will work well if you follow everything which they recommend regarding eating etc and you will maintain a very healthy weight.
I think it is quite low risk from what I have learned so that is great news :)
i am very happy for you Dar :rose:

Thanks Pat and Lulu. I'm quite sure all will go well and I'll get a quick date for the surgery.

Yesterday I went to my first weight loss surgery support group meeting. They meet the 3rd Thursday of the month.
They were very helpful with regards to fears, what to do and not to do, OHIP and such. I have a better understanding of how the whole insurance process works.
Looking forward to my appointment July 10.
The new group invited me to a family BBQ a week after my appointment so that should be fun. I'll just have to find out what kind of food to bring.
One girl was going to stop at Tim Horton's and bring Timbits for the meeting last night. It was her first meeting too, and I'm glad she better of it.

What I liked about this group, is it's supported by the clinic I'll be going to. All members are past or future patients from there. One of them has had my surgeon and another will soon have him. Nice to get insight into the doctors themselves.

Ok, I"m off.
I've been having major problems with my net again. The techs were just here so I hope I'll be good to go now.
Hugs,
Dar

Hi all,
Just a quick update...

Thursday I go to the doctor to see what he says. Maybe he'll sign the papers that day, or maybe start a bunch of tests first. I'm excited to see how it goes.

On the personal front, I just saw Bon Jovi for the 6th time. What a band! Had a great time and can't wait till they come out with a new record and a new tour. Geeze, they still have 4 concerts left before they even finish this one and I've got them on the road again LOL.

Hugs,
Dar

Finally got my internet up and running. I've been without for a good 6 weeks. Even now, I don't know how reliable it is.

Anyway, I'd like to post an update about my surgery.

I saw my Dr and he did order a bunch of tests. Blood, urine collection, echo, ekg and a sleep study.
I had all the tests done including that darn sleep study. Gawd that was awful. I was hooked up to so many wires, most of them on my head. Since my hair is soooo long, I usually sleep with my hair up, but I couldn't for the study, so my hair and the wires got all tangled up. One wire attached to my finger got wrapped around my neck, and all this was while I was still awake tossing and turning trying to get comfortable.

Anyway, 2 weeks ago, I went back to the Dr and he reviewed my results. He said I was def going to have diabetes and went ahead and signed my papers. I'm now waiting for OHIP approval. Once I get that, it should only be a 6 week - 3 month wait.
I COULD have it before Christmas.

Once I hear anything, I'll post again (God willing my net is still working)

Best of Luck to you!

Glad to hear from you, I hope that it all moves quickly for you now. Keep us posted.

Hey Dar !!


I was sure hoping you would post soon !!


I am glad things are getting in motion for you.... I am so happy for you !


Have you had to adjust your eating and such for pre/post surgery? I know you mentioned before that you had to do a few things to prepare... how have you been feeling?


Please post when you can...we are all ready to help ya along !!



:love: Peng xo

Darlene

So good to hear progress is being made and that you received the OK. Was wondering about you and how things were going recently. I suppose superbly busy trying to get the kiddo's ready to go back to school. I get to start all of that next year! Wahoo!

MD

Thanks for your support ladies. Wednesday will be three weeks since the doctor signed my papers and I haven't heard anything from OHIP yet. I did get my results from the sleep clinic and I have no sleep disorders at all. (I could have told them that and saved them the trouble)
I spoke to the surgeon's office to update them on my status. The expect to hear news before me and said they'd call as soon as they hear anything.
Now that hockey has started, I need to get the kids' schedules and tournament dates so I can plan the surgery around them as best as possible. I know with Dan opening a second store, he'll never be free to take them.

Both Bry and Reilly have made it pass the first cuts for their travel teams. Reilly I know will make his team, but Bry is still fighting for her spot. Again, I need to know as soon as possible so I can no their final schedules.

That's all for now. I hope to post again soon with good news.

Hi, Fleur:

Thanks for bringing us up-to-date.

Best of luck to you, and please keep us posted.

Oh Jo, you don't know how pleased I am to update you.

I GOT OHIP APPROVAL!

The mail just came with a letter accepting me. I called the clinic and they confirmed they have the same letter. The surgeon will sign the order for the surgery and someone from the admitting department will soon be calling me with a date.

I'm so excited and I'm actually in shock.

so excited for you, can't wait for another update!

That's wonderful!! Things are really starting to happen! Keep up with the updates :)

Thanks Judith and Nausicaa, another update as promised.

I'VE GOT A DATE!!!

I have the surgery Monday, November 10. I'm so excited, nervous, scared, thrilled, worried all rolled into one.

As of tomorrow there will be some big changes around here.
I'm going to quit smoking. I don't smoke to much now, so I'm hoping I'll be able to give it up fairly easily. (Food is so much harder)
I'm going back on Atkins to lose as much as I can before my surgery date.
And lastly, I'm going to start walking again.

I know these sound like big changes all at once, but I'm so determined I'll do just about what ever it takes.
I only need to do it for 2 months. At least that's what I'm gonna tell myself so I can stick with it that long.
In the mean time, I'll be doing lots of research on the post-op food plan and vitamin selection. I'll also be looking into protein drinks as I'll need those for a while too.

Thank you all for your support. Right now, I can really use it. I really do want this surgery, and I'm going to have it, but I'm just so scared and nervous.

Hugs

Good news for you! I am glad your surgery will be behind you by Christmas. How long do you stay in the hospital? It will be great if you can totally stop smoking by then so you don't have to deal with that withdrawal as you recouperate. I don't think you want to be standing outside the hospital in a johnny shirt in Nov in order to get a smoke!

Thanks for the update, Fleur. It all sounds good.

I hope you can quit smoking, it will help you so very much. And the more lbs. you lose now the fewer you will be losing afterwards.

We are all cheering you on.

Pat, I have to quit smoking in order to have the surgery. Now you know how determined I am. They need my lungs clear and I have to be smoke free for 6 weeks. No time for messing around.

Jo, so true. A few less pounds means I can breath and move a little easier too.

Oh wow, a date - how exciting! I'm sure you're nervous too, but that's to be expected, don't you think? It's a big step. You've got the wheels in motion and it'll be here before you know it. Good luck with the smoking (or lack thereof, lol). Please keep the updates coming. We'll all be here to cheer you on!

Hey Dar Dar

2 visits !! :jn


missed you so much but knew you had so much going on



Have you gone off the butts yet? It is tough but might be easier knowing you have an ultimate goal huh


I used nicorette to quit a million years ago... it gave me something to do when i HAD to have a smoke, and also I never killed anyone during the withdrawl hahaha



so how else do you have to prep now? I am really curious... do you have to walk or try and get in better physical shape? How is your weight now....do they want you to stay stable or to lose?


The time will go fast Dar, it will be Novemebr before we know it... I am happy the officals didnt give you the run around


Kendra is looking into lapband, I am not 100% about what is involved there either... just that if it gives someone that extra bit of help they need...go for it :jn



have you got someone lined up to help with the family the first while...actually they are prob old enough tom take care of mum now huh lol




time flys



I hope your weeknd is good Dar



if you get a chance and feel like it, please let me know how and what you are up to



:hug: Peng xo

I'll have to get back to you Peng. Power is out, laptop battery is about to die and back up battery for internet will be useless with the lap top LOL.
I'd be glad to tell you what's to come and the differents between RNY and the band.
Hugs

I'm back.

I have 3 weeks till my pre-op appointment. I have to lose these 10 pounds I've gained, and lose anther 10 to ensure my liver shrinks enough to have lapriscopic (sp) surgery.
Time is really flying now. Nov 10 will be here before you know it.
I did manage to quit smoking, but I have indulged when I drink. As of yesterday, I finally managed to start Atkins and make it through a day. So, this means, no drinking, which in turn means, no smoking. THAT'S IT, DONE! No more bad habits.

Good luck Darlene on your road to recovery that is a long road. But you sound ready. I know it's not done but your doing the preps. congrats on parking those smoke. and the beer or whatever drinks. there no good for you anyhow. Take care.

Dar ~

Wow, things are moving really quickly now aren't they? It's a big thing that you're about to do - being nervous is only natural. Just stay focused on the end result, a smaller you cheering your kids on during hockey games & the like.

MD

I have been thinking about you and wondering how this process was going. Please do keep us posted.

HANG TOUGH - your so close ! You CAN do this ! I have seen you stick to a plan in the past, so I know you can lose these pounds you need for surgery. I believe in you ! :D

Ah, reading your supportive posts is like drinking in fresh clean water. So pure and refreshing. Thanks so much.
I'm still sticking to it. Day 2 is almost over. I've been tempted, but I'm focused now on the task at hand.
So lets set a 15 lb goal. (I'd like to add 5 more to that, but we'll see) So for now I need to lose 15lbs. I'll post any losses I get.

Thanks again for having faith in me.

The best of luck to you. Just take it a day at a time, and keep hanging in there. You can do it, you know you can.

Great advice Jo. That's all I can do is one day at a time. Sometimes even one minute at a time!

Well, this morning I'm down 5lbs. Water weight I know, but I'll take it. So that's 5/15.

10 to go you will do it.

Thanks Linda. I'm feeling it. I think you're right.

Today I bought another protein powder to make strawberry shakes. They have cookies and cream and peanut butter chocolate, but they don't have sample sizes. I really want to try them before investing in something I'll hate. Like yesterday, I bought a pineapple banana pack with 7 pouches. Cost me $25 bucks but I thought since it's not you're regular choc, vanilla and strawberry, I'll pay and hope it's good. It was soooo bad! Yuck. I'm going to keep and and try it again using milk. I just hope I don't become lactose intolerant.
My surgery is one month from tomorrow. Wow.

Tomorrow also happens to be my 10th wedding anniversary. Dan already told me he didn't get me anything yet. He feels so bad, but just this week he got yet another store... that 3 in 6 months. Things are so crazy and he just doesn't know what to get or have the time to get it. He has been asking and asking what I want and I could never come up with anything. Well, tonight it finally came to me.... a gym membership. Yep, that's what I want. Tomorrow I'm going to join the gym!

Guess thats about it for now.
Hugs,
Dar

way to go on those 5 lbs ! :up:

and Happy 10th Anniversary ! :cheers: ( with water lol )

what a wonderful gift idea :D

Dar - how are things going so far for you this week? That date is creeping up around the corner. I bet you have crazy butterflies. Keeping you in my thoughts - MD

See you at the gym. Be good the lbs are falling off.

ack! had a set back. Gained my small loss right back on. I called the clinic to let them know and to find out if I can still have the surgery. I've heard of other doctors refusing. My doctor said it's fine. All surgeries will begin lapriscopic, but may end up open. I really want lap, but if open is what I get, then open it is.
I'm still going to try to lose weight. Actually, Monday I'm going to start a liquid diet. The same diet infact that I will be on post-op. Will give me a real sense of how it's gonna work later.
I've found it's not uncommon to have a weight gain before WLS. Most people have their last food fling. Guess in a way that's what I'm doing.

A couple days ago, my favorite bar's kitchen caught fire so now their closed. Although I'm sad, I'm glad for no more drink temptation. Where there's drink there's smoking. So now I know I'll be good.

Yep, 24 days till my surgery. I go a week from Monday for my PATs. I'm really quite nervous. MD, you said it well. I've def got a case of butterflies in my belly. Every time I think about it they start flying around. LOL

Beth- I'll get those 5 pounds back off. Thanks for the Anniversary wishes. Was a good day.
Linda- I've been to the gym once so far. Did an hour class in the pool and only 15 mins on the treadmil. Had to get off for the pool class.
Wanted to go yesterday, but it was a no go. I'm going to make my way there sometime today. I really want to try an aerobic class.

Till next time
Hugs,
Dar

Hang Tough ! Your strong ! :mus:

Hi, Dar:

I'm glad things are still on schedule even after your setback. Thanks for the update!

Thanks Jo and Beth.
I'm not always feeling strong. Dan's giving me grief. Thinks the house is a wreck and since it's a mess now, how will it be taken care of later. He mentioned postponing my surgery. Well, the truth is my house is always a wreck, that's nothing new, and there is nobody to help me out. My mom is coming to stay for 3 days to take care of the kids while I'm in, but I can't ask her to stay and keep my house up, once I'm home.
I think he's just trying his last ditch effort to get me to change my mind.
Yes, it's true I could die right then and there, or I could die a few weeks later from complications, but to me it's worth the risk. This is my only chance of leading a normal, healthy life.
One way or the other, I'll be dead soon. Either I have a massive heart attack or stroke in a couple years time, or I die from these complications. OR!!!! I have the surgery, it's a success, and I live to be an old lady who got to see her grand kids graduate university. Yep, that's the outcome I'm hoping for.

So, 19 days to go.
Still TRYING to do the liquid thing, but dinner my stomach says FOOD! So I eat a regular meal. Guess that's ok too.

Guess that's it for now.

Hugs,
Dar

Hi, I'm sorry things are so stressful for you now. It will be great when this is all behind you. Just think of what you can do with your house when you have the energy to attack it.

pat

You know Dar - sometime I think these men of ours really don't want us to lose the weight :shrug:

Now I am sure Dan is worried about something happening to you - as you know it is a very serious operation.

I recently lost about 40 lbs and Tim brings SO much junk food into this house now - it's unreal ! Men ! lol

As for the house - oh please, tell him to get over it, he has rode your a*s for years about the house lol he knows you are super crazy busy and are the only one taking care of it - tell him to sing a new song lol ;)


Please please keep us posted how you are doing!

Can you PM me your email addy so I can touch base with you while you are recovering?

Prayers & Thoughts ! :hug:

Pat- Thanks for reminding me that this too shall pass.
Beth- You're right, it's just not worth getting upset about. He can deal with the house for a little while.
I'm not gonna stress it anymore. Least not now LOL.

Two days ago I went for my PATs. First I filled out my paper work then had my BP, temp and oxygen levels taken. Then it was off to donate blood... ok, they just drew 5 tubes so it felt like was was donating LOL. After that I waited about 20 mins then I was off to nutrition class to learn how to eat and read labels.
I had a chest x-xay and a gallbladder ultrasound and an EKG then a visit from the respetologist. They taught me how to deep breath and cough for after surgery, and they gave me a breathing toy to bring home and practice sucking in air. The measured my lung capacity and I was 120%. Finally I was seen by an MD who did a physical and answered the last of my questions.
I passed everything with flying colours. I'm ready for my surgery in 12 days.

wishing you a speedy recovery. Can't wait to hear from you down the road, what an exciting time....

Hi, Fleur:

You are on my prayer list - that your surgery may be completely successful and that you may have a speedy recovery.

And I agree with Judith that this is a very exciting time.

WOW! I had no idea it was so close Dar! Though I havent been on here in forever. I guess today is a good day to come back and see you! How exciting for you. I'll keep you in my thoughts and look forward to seeing how it all turns out!

xoxo
Shan

Just sing the song The 12 Days Of Christmas to yourself to make your count down more interesting lol :laugh:

Seriously though you are and will be in my thoughts & prayers :hug:

Beth- Have ever sang that song???? It takes forever! I'm hoping my 12 days passes faster then that LOL.

Hey Shan- I'm glad you're back. Today's as good a day as any right? Yep, my surgery is right around the corner. You'll notice I don't mention it on Facebook because there are people on there I don't want to know. I only talk about it here and on Obesity Help ( a WLS site)

Jo and Judith- this is an exciting time and a nervous one too. I have never had surgery before so I don't know what to expect as far as pain goes. They say it's much like a C-section or better. I guess if millions of women can have that done, I can do this.
Thanks so much for your good wishes. Please know I'll be holding them close to my heart.

If anyone wants to check out my surgery journal or my blog, I have a link in my signature to both.

Hugs,
Dar

Hi Darlene the 10th will be here before you know it. And I see your still going for it. Hope all goes well. It's right in hockey time the kids will sure miss their driver. But you will be back with it soon. Take care.

Thanks Linda.
One week from today!
I just found out there are a bunch of ladies (about 7 of them) all meeting in the lobby at the clinic next week. They're all going to check up on me. I don't know how with it I'll be, but it's nice they'll take the time to see me. Most will be there for their 3 month follow up.

Hockey is all taken care of. The big tournament is this weekend and Sunday will be a challenge since I'll be on clear fluids all day. I'll manage somehow. Then I'm off on Monday.

Take care

I'm keeping you in my thoughts and prayers -

Fleur,

Just wanted to say hi and I will be praying for you too. Looking forward to some pictures in the spring!!!

Thinking of you as the time gets nearer. Don't get too cold in the rink!
Pat

thoughts & prayers being sent your way - as always I wish you the BEST ! :D

It's coming up fast now. Won't be long and your looking forward to it. So should all be great. So you'll be taking a bit of a break from hockey I really think you deserve it. Clear fluids are not all that bad now did they give you a list of all you can have. Not near as strick as it used to be. You can even have pop on it now. But not the diet. Wonder what the reason is there. Good luck and the weight will just peel off after the surgery.

Hey buddy !!

how ya holding up?


thinking of you and hoping you are doing real real good



:love: Peng

Jo, Nancy, Pat, Beth, Linda,

Thank you all for being there for me and giving me courage when I haven't always had it.

This will probably be my last post in this journal. I'm going to keep it open until I get back on Wednesday. After that I'm going to start a new one. Not sure of the name yet, but I'll PM you and let you know so you'll be able to find me.

I'm going to ask someone to post updates from the hospital. So, look here to see if there's any news.

Linda, As of Sunday I'll be on clear fluids. Sprite, 7up, water, juice, broth, jello, that kind of thing.
For 3 weeks after, I'll be on a liquid diet. Protein shakes, SF jello, SF freezies, 100% juices, decaff coffee or tea. I just have to make sure I get 70 g of protein a day, 64oz of fluids, no more then 3g of sugar per meal (not including natural sugars) and no more then 11g of fat per meal. I'll probably have to force myself to eat.

I'll have to take a multi vitamin everyday. And later, I'll be able to eat just about anything that doesn't have more then the 3g of sugar. Some things I may find will no longer agree with me so it'll be trial and error.
I can't have diet pop for 6 months and even then it has to be flat. The carbonation can swell the pouch.
I just need to stick to the sugar thing, the protein and the fat amounts I listed. That will be for the rest of my life. Oh, and I'll only be eating 1/2C - 1C of food, 6 times a day. And although it may not sound like a lot, don't forget my stomach will only be the size of a golf ball so I really won't be hungry so there's no starvation factor.

Well ladies, I'm off to get ready for this weekend's hockey tournament, then off to the hospital on Monday.

I'll be thinking of all of you.

Hugs
Darlene

Good luck tomorrow, Darlene! Praying that everything goes well and you have a quick recovery. :hug:

You are in my thoughts and prayers.

I am both scared and excited for you


we have known each other so many years



I only wish the absolute best for you buddy




I will be praying to the powers that be that you come thru really well




good luck buddy



xoxoxo

I too am SO excited and yet also like pengii nervous for you - my thoughts are with you as are my prayers :hug: :rose:

Thinking of you and sending good vibes thy way! :cheer:

Will be keeping you in my thoughts and prayers, Dar :)

woke up thinking of you, best wishes, speedy recovery onto your new and improved lifestyle. can't wait to hear from you down the road....

Saying prayers today for a successful surgery and excellent recovery!!! :ghug:

Thoughts and prayers were sent your way off and on all day today :hug:

I am going to go goofy until we hear how you are doing lol ;)

Ah, you're not kidding anyone, Beth - you'll still be goofy even after you hear she's okay! :D :rofl:

Well if your reading this your home. Or your using a lap top in hospital. Get well quick. Good luck with all.

Just letting you know, fleur asked for my email so her friend could keep us updated on how she is doing but I have not heard anything yet. Will post it as soon as I get it.

thanks for letting us know Nancy that you will update us as you hear info..

Thanks for letting us know Nancy :)

& hey Mel :tongue: lol

You have to admit you left yourself wide open for that one, Beth! :D

Ah, you guys are the best!!!!!
How do you give the biggest virtual hug in the world? I need to give one to each of you.

Nancy was never given an update because her e-mail address got lost in the shuffle and my friend didn't get it.

So I'm back, I'm great, all went well and I'm not in to much pain. A little pulling feeling in the muscles (they did make 6 so so so small cuts into the muscle so that's why they hurt)

Ok, I'm going to start my new journal. I think I'll call it LIFE AFTER WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY. I hope to see you there.

Hugs, and lots of love
Dar

Fleur:

I'm so glad that all went well with your surgery and I'm looking forward to your new journal.

see fleur new journal here!


http://www.diettalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=68894

we are SO thrilled to have you back :dn