Update on my daughter

For those who might be interested, I thought I would give a quick update on my daughter who had Lap RNY on November 14 of last year. She seems to be more active now, going to school (cosmotology school)during the day and working (receptionist at a salon) in the evenings. And when she's not at either of those, she's out with her friends.... living! Its so wonderful to see her with more energy and so happy. The only thing that worries me is she's not getting her protein in and she forgets to take her vitamins daily. I keep Unjury in the house (I didn't even buy that for myself.... I thought it was a little pricey and I settled with a different brand) and all kinds of protein rich foods in the fridge. For some reason, she only wants dry food like crackers and chex mix. I bought her one of those weekly medicine keepers this week, hoping she will keep it someplace where she will remember to take her vitamins... I remind her daily to take them, but she's ADD and always gets sidetracked on her way to do it. I am just about tired of harping on the protein and vitamins. She's soon to be 19 and won't be living with mom and dad forever. I've been trying to get her in the habit of taking them... Any ideas? She also had a gallbladder attack two weeks ago. Dr. Weaver (our surgeon) said Maggie's gallbladder will have to be removed eventually. This attack was not too bad and Maggie chose to wait and see what happens in the future. Dr. Weaver said each attack will get worse and to keep a close eye on Maggie when she has one and make sure she doesn't start running a fever. So far, Maggie has been attack free. She's lost 45 pounds and her clothes are falling off of her. She seems to be so happy.... I sometimes think that girl is going to send me to an early grave!!! Wanda

Wanda, It has to be difficult. Maybe if you remind her that our bodies need 60 grams of protein JUST to maintain normal muscle mass AND that our heart is a muscle!!!! That really got my attention when I was told that. I sure didn't want any heart problems. If she likes crackers, how about some slices of cheese to go on them. Or deli meat that is easy to grab on the go. My brother has lots of tummy problems after surgery, so he found that crackers helped so much. Maybe not a good choice, but it was the one food that didn't cause him problems. Is she having problems eating? Would she eat Stallone protein puddings? They really taste good, are ready-made and have 19 grams of protein in them. I know for myself, sometimes, nothing really sounds good to eat so grabbing something quick and easy is easier (altho not as healthy for sure). Mary

Mary, Not only have I reminded her how much protein she needs each day, she learned it from all the nutrition classes she attended before the surgery. I've even told her that her heart is muscle. I think the one that got her was when I told her she will lose her hair if she doesn't get her protein in. That worked for a while... I think the problem lies with her being able to digest the dry foods so much easier. I'll try fixing her some crackers and cheese for "on the go", because she is always "on the go". I'll also try the Stallone protein puddings. I'm willing to try anything! The fridge is full of cheeses and meats, cottage cheese and sugar free pudding (Jello brand), Carb Countdown milk and tuna. She likes all of these.... she just won't eat them. Thanks for your concern and advice..... Wanda

Wanda, so glad to hear your daughter is doing well. You must be so proud of her and relieved that the real "girl" is shining through. I have such high hopes for my daugher and hope that weight is something she never has to battle, like I did and still do. Keep Smiling, Denise