Down in the Dumps

Ok, I'm feeling really bad tonight. It's been 18 days without a cigarette which is bad by itself but I also have to try to "diet" for this surgery. I'm having a difficult time handling both and it's depressing me. I'm trying to stay positive and tell myself that the surgery is coming soon and that all of this is worth it, but because the surgery seems so far away, it's becoming less of a motivator.

Delicia--I am 4 days post op and feel very well. The time goes by fast, really. I started this process 2 years ago and never thought I would be here. Think how happy your lungs are! You need to be as healthy as possible for the surgery, to avoid complications. I am relieved to be home and okay and that will be you. Hang in there. Hillary

I'm so sorry you are feeling so down. I can imagine that it's hard trying to conquer 2 things at once...but you can do it!!!!...and the surgery date will come before you know it and it will all be worth it. It is hard when you are in process and don't have that definite end in sight... but realize you are well on your way to reaching your goals...You absolutely can do this!!!!!!! My surgery date is scheduled and I'm still struggling with trying to keep the weight off I've lost...we just have to keep ourselves focussed on the end result! We'll both make it just fine! Praying also helps me a lot too. Keep Smiling! God Bless!, Carrie

Delicia, Here is a huge hug. Everything you do in preparation for the surgery I know it will be well worth it. I know we all have *down* days and sometimes days and days. Please keep up the good work..keep trying and do not go back to smoking.. dieting is hard.. it is hard to have to do both at the same time but I know you will suceed and find being on the *other* side is going to be wonderful. I want to let you know that I will be thinking of you..praying for your sucess. Hugs Pattie D

Delicia, You are on your way to a healthier life. Eightteen days of not smoking is such an accomplishment! I know dieting is not easy now. Give yourself credit for what you have accomplished already. Use this time to make lists of things you want to do after you lose this weight. Spend lots of time on things related to your surgery...research and this message board. You can do this..you have proved it these past 2.5 weeks. Keep up the good work and allow yourself to "morn" the loss of smoking... Just know you are on the right track. Blessings, Joanie

Delicia, YOU CAN DO IT! I had my surgery Aug 3, and had quit smoking about 2 months before in preperation. It was hard, but I did use the patch for about 5 days. Trust me, it's easier to give it up first. You will find yourself mourning food after the surgery, and I was very glad I was done with the cigarettes. Plus, I didn't have to panic worrying about how much it would hurt if I coughed. Stick with it, it gets easier. Anne

Delicia, Hang in there! You deserve the best and that's what you are giving yourself right now by quitting the cigarettes and having the surgery! You are the ONLY one who can do it..and I know you have it in you! Break everything down into small chunks of time. Keep busy. Do things with your hands-puzzles, knitting, etc. Avoid activities that you associate with food/cigarettes. I quit 19 years ago after having smoked for 17 years. If I can do it-you can too! This feeling is temporary...you have a lifetime of good health waiting for you ahead...go for it! Ann

Delicia, You are doing great!!! 18 days without smoking is incredible. The first week is the hardest, and you are past that! Making 2 huge changes at once is very difficult. Just take it 1 day at a time. Try to plan your diet each day, and stick with it. I find planning really helps me stick to my plan so much better than deciding as I go. Good luck, I know you can do it! Carmen

Hang in there, Delicia! 18 days is something to be very proud of, especially when you are doing diuble-duty with watching what you eat. You have the right attitude, all these steps you are taking now ARE worth it. Keep fighting the good fight and remember, your surgery date is coming, one step at a time. And I LOVE the picture! You are a beautiful woman! Peace, -Deb

Delicia: Congrats on quitting smoking that is such an accomplishment! GOOD FOR YOU! This is a difficult time for you, but we're here for ya, so vent away when you need to! Hang in and take it slow..one minute at a time if you have to !!! Good luck! JA