Work Holiday Party Last Night...

...and I am beat!

Quick update on Doc, doesn't think it's a stricture/ulcer, just need more time to take a step back and will see me Monday.  Been doing fine on soft foods (purees a lot) and protein drinks, so will survive until Monday just fine...

Anyway, went into NYC for our xmas party (aren't some of you from that area?) and man it was COLD!  I work from home so I go outside to put the kids on the bus/off the bus, but waiting in that taxi line outside of GCS was pure torture!!  Party was crowded, we got bought out in May so we had a combined party so a ton of faces I've never seen before (boy I sound like a party pooper!  I think I am 20 years to old for this kind of even and I couldn't even drink yet 20 years ago!).  Was great to see a lot of people from the office I don't normally see, so that was cool.

Now, the food.  Because I haven't been feeling well, I made myself a protein drink for the ride in on the train, and then got a wine just to look like  I was partaking, but also had a water that I sipped all night.  I didn't dare try any food not knowing what anything was made with or how, etc...especially being only 8 weeks out as it is.  Now, if it had been a year from now, what would you guys have done?  I know I probably would have sipped that wine and maybe had 2, BUT what do you do in these social functions where there is food?  Try a bit?  Avoid all together?  Even if I felt well, I don't think I would have tried anything.  I still have that grave fear of dumping even though it hasn't happened yet, but I also haven't given my body anything that are the dangers for dumping, so I still don't know if I do or not.....  

How do some of you more senior post ops handle this type of function?

Happy Hump day!!!
Ann Marie

Hi Ann Marie!! 

Sounds like you had a good time, but was a little stressed over the eating/drinking situation...

Now - I'm over 2 years out.  A year after my surgery I'd have been okay going to a function like that, having a drink or 2, and able to eat something without fear of dumping or feeling bad.

BUT - since then I have developed Reactive Hypoglycemia.  I have an "episode" when I eat simple carbs and drink alcohol.  Its not uncommon for RNY'ers to develop this, BUT each person who doesn't always react to the same things, even though carbs are usually the culprit.

So - I went to this Halloween party and it was a potluck.  Usually you can count on a protein dish (meatballs, ham, etc) being there, but this time there wasn't ANYTHING I could eat.  I'd already had a glass of wine, so I knew I had to be very careful.  I did finally find a quiche-like dish that I picked apart and some chili that came out afterwards.  Not even a cheese tray - all desserts and potatoes...

So - now before these types of events I make sure I eat dense protein BEFORE I go.  That way I'm not put into that situation again.

I have 3 parties this weekend and will be sure I eat before I go.  I don't trust just a protein drink will be enough, so it will be a piece of chicken probably. 

Very good question - I'm curious to see what others have to say.

I don't drink so that is never an issue.  And I don't dump, so that is not an issue either.  When I go to parties I eat sm quantities (bites) of just about anything I want.  I have never been a huge sweet freak, but I do enjoy some sweet things.  The key for me is moderation and being mindful. 

Jane

I am no where near a veteran but have been placed in that situation. I have the same fears you are explaining and what I have done is find what is closest to the healthiest that I wont dump on. Veggies ( mainly carrots or celery no dip) fruit no dip, or even a cheese platter.
Like Jody, I have also been where there was not even a cheese platter and I have been keeping protein bars hidden in my purse now. I keep 3 with me at all times and if I need it, I pull it out. I have never been asked about them.
At 8 weeks out though, I think you did great. Arm yourself with knowledge and know what you can and cant have.

When I have to go to "events" or even family get togethers, I go for the raw veggies without dip first, which helps fill me up, then I'll take small bites of whatever. I don't dump with the sleeve, so I don't have to avoid sweets, I just have to limit my quantities. I also don't really drink. This weekend I might have a small glass of white wine at DH's party.

Thanks ladies!  Yes, that is a big struggle for me worried to put anything in my mouth.   I guess for now while I am still trying to lose that is a very good thing, but it is a little stressful.  Everything looked fried and even the passed apps looked like they had a lot of seasonings (skewer chicken,etc) so I was afraid "is there sugar in there" or "too much oil in the marinade" etc.  I am my own worst enemy sometimes.  Because of the discomfort in the pouch, the temptation definitely wasn't there anyway, but wanted to feel like I was "participating".  Does this make any sense??  Anyway, I am doing xmas with my husband's family this weekend here at my house and asked them to bring wine and dessert as I won't have any of either anyway and then I can control the meal so there will be things I am comfortable eating.  I just know though that I can't always have the control (even though I would like it!! )

I think some of it is my stupid head is still in that place that the "event" is centered around food and drinking.....  I hope I will come to some compromise with my head over this....

Thanks again, ladies!  Sometimes I think just writing it and "putting it out there" makes me think about it and work on what's really going on in my head.  ((HUGS))

Its hard, especially being only 2 months out, with the holidays.  I had my surgery in October too, so I know where you're at.

I didn't let the food control me - but I also didn't go to any parties.  My first "event" was New Years eve and I allowed myself a glass of wine.  I had absolutely NO desire to try and push the envelope and eat sweets or simple carbs.  My family knew, so eating with them was easy. 

But - by questioning NOW what's in food is starting your learning process and it will become habit very soon - which is a good thing!!  It will keep you accountable and successful throughout the whole journey and maintenance.

You're doing great!