7 months out - what I know now (long post)

[tempred]

Well it has been 7 months, so I thought I would update my progress and share some of the things I have learned along the way. Sorry for the length, just my thoughts.

THE WHY -
I had the surgery to rid myself of diabetes, and that was a success (doing a happy dance here). I have lost 70 pounds so far and after a long stall, I am back to losing (another happy dance). I still struggle with eating and I find my diet limited (I am a picky eater, before and after the sleeve) so there is not a lot of variety. I am still eating pretty much by the clock, as I am still not hungry.

FOOD-
There are things that I can eat more of than others, but never more than a half a cup at any one time. I am still drinking my fruity protein drinks and that is great, however I would like to graduate to more solid proteins versus the liquids. Deli meats and cheeses remain my staple; however I am introducing shrimp into my diet. I rarely get to the veggies, but when I miss them, I just alter my diet to make room. As a single person, it is difficult to cook an entire meal knowing that it will last forever, LOL. I need to get better with that. At times, I am still finding that things I liked last week, I don’t care for this week. It will be a lifetime of adjustments and I am okay with that. I have yet to eat anything that has made me ill, and I am thankful for that. I have had some foods that some would consider “bad” foods, but such a small portion, that it works for me. This decision was to get healthy, not to live forever without occasional treats. Everyone has their own agenda, mine is working for me.

CLOTHES-
My body continues to change, even when the scale is not moving. There have been times when I will drop 2 sizes in one month. Nice problem to have but it gets frustrating at times. I find myself shopping for things I like, not just buying the things that fit (and getting one of every color because they do fit). I only wish the top half would catch up with the bottom half. Tops are L/XL depending on how they are made and bottoms are a size 10. Made my first trip to VS to treat myself to a couple of new bras, I waited until it was absolutely necessary and I thought that would be a nice treat. It felt so good to know I could go in there and buy things without people staring wondering why the fat lady was there. Even picked up some panties and they weren’t the largest in the store (yea!!). Another benefit is that in regular stores, you can actually find cheaper clothes. I have found sales on tops for 5 bucks at my former “tent” shops as I call them (LB, Avenue, etc) you could never find real bargains even on sale.

HAIR –
Despite all of my efforts of getting my protein in, taking all the vitamins and supplements I was supposed to, heard about or Dr Oz recommended my hair started falling out in a big way about 4 months out. I am still losing, but not as much. I used the Nioxin shampoo and conditioner and I don’t know if it helped or not but I do have new growth and I am thankful. About a month ago, I gave up the fight of keeping my long hair and cut about 8 inches off. That was a huge step for me, but in the grand scheme of this journey, it was the best thing for me. My Dr said it was going to happen, with or without me spending hundreds of dollars on remedies. I guess he was right, but I still have more hair than him, so all is good. LOL

CHANGES –
Many changes have come about the last few months; of course the obvious is the smaller size but there are others. I have more energy, it is easier to do things and I am having fun. Even sex is better! I find that while I was confident before, my confidence is over the top now. In fact, I even started a new venture check out my website Consultant Personal Website something that I would never have done a year ago. It is a way for me to make money to hopefully fund any cosmetic surgery I may need. If not, I am sure I can find some use for the cash (more clothes).

LESSONS I HAVE LEARNED –
1. Don’t compare yourself with others, we are all different and we started at different places. We will lose differently.
2. The weight didn’t get there over night, and it is not going to fall off overnight. You have to work your sleeve. Be kind with your expectations
3. Support is necessary, however you can get it. There are down days to face throughout this journey.
4. Share with others, there are too many people suffering that just need to see someone else go through surgery to gain their own courage. I have led 3 others to pursue surgery to become healthier.
5. Every day is a new day, foods that didn’t work yesterday may work today and it is okay if they don’t.
6. Eating out is a pleasure not an inconvenience, I no longer focus on the food but the conversation and I have some great friends with stories
7. I am happier
8. Getting up and getting dressed is no longer a chore, I actually think about what I am going to wear versus just picking the next outfit.
9. Yellow is my favorite color these days, yes my wardrobe used to be the basic black and blue with a splash of color

REGRETS-
Only that I didn’t do this years ago. I am becoming the person on the outside that I was on the inside all along.

ADVICE FOR THOSE CONSIDERING THE SLEEVE-
Do your research; make your own decision about this surgery. This is a lifetime commitment that is yours and yours alone. You must be physically and mentally ready for it. If you are not, you aren’t ready for the surgery. If you are, do it! You will not regret it.
Just remember to allow yourself time to heal, this is major surgery and there is some pain and discomfort. It gets better every day and all of that becomes a very distant memory (like childbirth). I have been asked knowing what I know now, would I do it again? To that I would answer “Hell to the Yeah” it hasn’t all been a bed of roses, but it is so worth it and I am not all the way to my final destination yet.

Thanks for giving me the opportunity to share, I know this is long but it is important for the newer folks to hear from people that have gone before. There were so many people on this forum that walked me through the beginning of this journey and I will forever be grateful for them. I don’t always check in daily here, but I plan to stay a member so that I can pay it forward.
Best wishes to each of you, where ever you are on your journey.

[dachsie]

Sounds like you are doing great! Good advice too. Thanks!

[deewelch510]

Thank you so much for sharing!!!!!!

[Michellelynn1236]

Thanks for the post. I have been a little worried about my hair falling out so that is a concern but I guess what will be will be...

[Sunflower]

Thanks! I'm not too far behind you and I concur on all parts.

[xxtac66]

Shelli, I really enjoyed reading your post! I am 3 months post-op and I could visualize myself in your journey. Thank you!!!

[Jewel]

This was SUCH a great post! So many great pieces & parts for the newbies
You have much to be proud of - great job!

[Lexi]

Thanks for sharing! I think it had to be long to give all the great advice and details!

[NEANER]

Your story really helped and I thank you. I ave one more dietary class then will see the surgeon so should be in the fall. Wish me luck.

Neani

[shelleyssweets]

Thanks for posting and offering your thoughts. Your post should be placed (and kept) at the top of the forums so everyone gets a chance to read it.
Good luck on your new venture! I hope it gives you the opportunity to have things tucked or lifted as needed.

[Noregrets82]

Thanks for the update, loved it!

[Holly]

Wonderful post, so much love in it, that's what I like here honest kind and up lifting people like you, best support is this kid honest and well thought out, bravo and well done

[Missing_Link]

Thank you for your words of wisdom, very much appreciated. I look forward to furthering my journey and will remember the words you said. Thanks again.

[Fran71]

Thank you , this is great advice & very encouraging & positive.

[blessedahf]

Very well said!