Looking to connect with patients 5+ years post op
I can not imagine what that must have been like for you. We are not supposed to outlive our children. Good for you for bouncing back. One thing I have had to learn in this experience is patience with myself. There are always going to be setbacks in life. How we bounce back from those is what truly defines us in the long run. I would love to hear more about your story and how things are going these days.
Hi Dawn,
I had my RNY on June 14, 2006 in Ocala, FL. I maintained a 110 lb weight loss until 2012 (6 years). This past year, I finally lost the last 50 lbs I wanted to loose. At first, I thought I was ill or something, as I lost 20 lbs in about 4 months in early 2012. I had GYN appointment, did my colonoscopy that I had been putting off, blood work, etc. No explanation as to what was going on, which was a little scary. Friends and family starting noticing it, as I continued to lose...then it clicked.
First, I had changed anti-depressant meds from Paxil, which I started taking several years before my surgery and contributing to a 30 lb weight gain when I started taking it. (I was already heavy and gained 30 more lbs...GREAT...less depressed, but not happy!) The Paxil wasn't really working anymore, so the Dr. switched me to Cymbalta, which can cause decreased appetite.(Yea!)
Second, we realized that my hubby, who is a trucker, but had always been a local driver, had taken an over-the-road job when the local job disappeared. Since he was gone 3 weeks at a time, I wasn't cooking very much. I work 2nd shift in a hospital, so I was eating dinner in the cafeteria five nights a week and was grazing on more veggies, soups, half sandwiches and salads at home. I was actually eating like I should have been, instead of the heavier meat meals that we did when he was home.
He is now home every weekend, but I'm not having difficulty maintaining as I cook one big item on Friday, like a roast or turkey, and make several meals out of it while he is home. I was happy with the weight loss from 310 to 200, but really had to be careful and keep my eye on the scale. Now, at 150...I'm loving life and wish I would have figured out the med problem earlier!
Good Luck,
Crystal
Congratulations on that final push. Yes, it is especially difficult when we have to work other people's lives into the equation. Especially if they don't need to or don't want to lose weight and/or eat healthy. I have never been a smoker, but I imagine it is much like trying to quit smoking or any other bad habit when you are surrounded by others who continue doing something you previously enjoyed.
Hi Dawn,
I am five years out this month, lost 130 lbs and am maintaining. As far as weight goes doing great. I am now having problems with low blood sugar. Trying to get that under control. If anyone has suggestions would love to hear from you. It took me a long time but exercise is a big part of my life now so have to find a balance with exercise and food!
I had my weight loss surgery in 2004. My high weight was 475 and I lost 260 pounds. Since then I have gained and now weigh 280. I am determined to go back to taking care of myself and going back to what I know worked! I am proud I have maintained an almost 200 pound loss, but feel much better at the lower weight. The last few years have been rough-I have battled breast cancer but am now healthy. The next chapter of my life is beginning and I am thrilled to start.
The most important thing is to never give up. You have been through so much. We can't change the past, but we can wake up every day and renew our resolve. There are always going to be bad days, but you already know you are stronger than the average person. It isn't the good fortune in life that defines us, it is the difficult times and how we tackle those challenges. Let me know how I can help.
