Celebrating my "surgiversary" today! I weighed in this morning exactly 100 lbs lighter than the morning I went on the pre-op diet.
For all of you that are just starting, I want you to know this is NOT an easy fix. I also want you to know the urge to overeat NEVER goes away for some people, including myself...however this surgery has given me something I never had before: confidence!
I was always a heavy child growing up...I remember being called "big-boned" by friends and fat by everyone else, while growing up. Food was a source of entertainment for the family. I never thought much about portion control, and I just ate til the food was off of my plate.
In this last year, I got out of an unhealthy relationship and found a great man in my life; lost a significant amount of weight; and regained confidence I haven't had in years- maybe that I never had before. I am more sure now than ever before I am prepared for whatever comes my way! Thanks for letting me share all of my excitement, advice, jibber-jabber...etc.
What I want to share with you all is this...just a few reminders (this is good for me to put in writing as well, for a reminder to myself!)
1. Use smaller plates or bowls when eating. This will resist your urge to stuff the plate and ATTEMPT to eat more than you should...also, try the baby forks and spoons. I love mine!
2. DO NOT drink water from a straw...it will stretch out your sleeve faster. I learned that after disobeying MD orders not thinking a thing about it- and he told me the bad effects, so take it seriously. I only warn you, because I can't assume I'm the only REBEL out there
3. I recommend doing the sleeve test every 3 months. It's a good way to check yourself, and restart weight loss when you get stuck.
4. This surgery will help you drop significant weight, but take advantage of the opportunities it'll give you to work out; try new things! I've taken up hiking, biking, rock climbing, and running- things I never dreamed would be hobbies. It's a great opportunity to rediscover YOU!
5. DO NOT FORGET WHERE YOU CAME FROM. My cousin and I had the surgery done at the same time, and since then has lost several friends. They think she has become too arrogant to be friends with- and she makes fun of obesity, as if she was not just there. Don't be THAT GIRL (or GUY).
6. Use this site for encouragement. I don't know how many times, I felt like turning to chocolate or candy - but this site, these people (Y'ALL) kept me honest. It is a great support system. So glad I joined!!
7. The excess skin will happen, some more than others, but remember to tone and exercise while you're going...this will help tremendously!
8. ENJOY THE JOURNEY- it'll be a lifetime...but I look forward to each day in my new healthy state!
If you guys ever want to talk, I'm always here. I remember having so many questions when I first got started. Good Luck to everyone no matter where they are at in this process. We're all in it TOGETHER!
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