8.5 Month Post-op Photos

I Did It!!! 5 K in 38.56

It was bitterly cold, 17 degrees. I wasn't able to run the entire course, but I did finish. I wasn't first across the line, and I wasn't last. It has been a GREAT day. One more goal I can check off of my list.

Special thanks to all of my friends and family that ran/walked the race. And a huge thanks to Dave Collins who was by my side every step, fast or slow, of the 3.1 miles.

Here are some race photos. #1 is me in running gear. #2 the finish line with the time clock. #3 is approachng the finish line. #4 the start, I'm the one waving my arm in the air. I know they are not in cronological order. Sorry

I could be a crack addict

I'm not, but I could be. Let me clarify...For the most part, I have shared the positives of my weightloss journey through this blog. There are LOTS of positives. And while my journey has been remarkably easy, I must confess that I really miss food and some of what is associated with it. I also am discovering that I crave things I never did before and my will power to turn it down can be thwarted fairly easily. Not only do I crave things, but if available and I give into the temptation, I tend to binge until the said food item is GONE. For example, I bought a half gallon of ice cream to have a bowl of and share with my family. Well the second night it was in the house and nobody was eating it, I felt an almost uncontrollable urge to finish it off. It nearly consumed all of my thoughts and would not let up until I gave in. I finally gave in and ate it ALL. Another example, last night we were setting up our Christmas tree and I decided I would make a few cookies to add to the festivities. I made 10 cookies. My kids each ate one, my wife ate two, I ate the rest. I wasn't hungry, but I had no will power at all.

It is disconcerting that with all of the success I have had losing the weight and getting my physical body back in shape, I still have not found the magic ticket to correct my behavior. So, while I am not a crack addict. I do see how someone could become addicted to a substance.

All that being said, I am so glad I had the surgery. The beauty of my situation is that even with my errant behaviors, I have a tool that will help me continue to lose the weight and keep it off for the long haul.

By the way, today I will run my first 5K race. It is 15 degrees outside. What was I thinking.

Marc

First Parade Ride

Here I am on the new (old) bike. It was VERY cold, but lots of fun.

I'm Below Average

I found some statistics on line that suggest that the average waist size of an American male is 37". Today I am wearing a size 36" jeans and they are a little big. I guess that means I below average. That is a first for me.

Other good news today... I passed my motorcycle license test today. I am now a licensed driver. I even rode my new bike home from the testing center. I was a bit nervous as we've had some rain and the roads were slick. I was also concerned about riding on the interstate. All went well though. I am looking forward to this new adventure on the open road.

As a result of the events in the paragraph above, I have a new drivers liscense with a new picture. WOW I look different.

Until later...
Ride on,
Marc

Wow Moments

I went to my sleep study Doctor last Friday (I'm having a study done tonight, Monday), and when the MD came in we talked about my weight loss etc. Over the years, I never really knew my highest weight, because I stopped weighing for several years. The MD started flipping through my chart and told me that the highest weight they had recorded was 370 lbs. WOW, the highest I knew was 360 lbs. On the day of surgery I was 351 lbs. Today, I am 241. Pretty amazing huh?

I bought a motorcycle this weekend. I've never had one before. It is a 1981 Honda CB750 Classic. I got it from a guy that was strapped for cash and need to sell the bike bad. I got it for $150.00. Yep that's right, $150.00. Yes, it runs. It runs good, and is looking much better with the elbow grease I am putting in. It didn't have a key, so I had to remove the ignition switch and have a key made. It cost me $22 to have two keys made. By the time I get everything fixed that needs fixing, I will have $300.00 in a really nice bike.

I guess I have officially begun my mid-life crisis.

Ride on,
Marc

Down Some More

I'm now down to 242 lbs. for a total loss of 109 lbs. since March 23, 2006.

Post more later.

Marc

Just Keep Running

I ran a complete mile today without stopping!

I had been really struggling with my stamina and decided to slow down a bit and see if that helped. It did! I was able to go much further than before.

After running the mile, I continued with the normal walk/run regimen.

It has been a good day,
Marc

Hellish Halloween

The Halloween sweets got the best of me. I sampled many of the chocolate delights in my kid's stash of candies. I think they were even better than I remembered. I felt some guilt for doing so, but not much.

This morning I was on the treadmill and ran further than I had previously without stopping. Then I continued with my walk/run regimen. I know my heart is getting stronger. It feels good to have my health returning.

On another note. My wife's work has a big celebration dinner this Thursday night at the local art museum. It is a suit and tie affair. So, I had to buy a suit. I am between a 44 and 46 regular coat and a 36/38 pant. I started out at a 58 coat and a 50 pant. Pretty cool huh?

Party on Wayne,
Marc

Update

It was a VERY busy weekend. It was supposed to be busy, just in a different way. My kids play soccer and both were to play this weekend, one in an all day Saturday and Sunday tournament. Due to bad weather on Friday, the tournament and other games were cancelled. YAHOO! FREE WEEKEND...sort of.

I had planned to take today, Monday, off to install an underground fence for our dogs. We decided to get a jump start on it Saturday. We got it all done. There was LOTS of up and down, bending over and on my knees work. I was a bit sore the next day, but not too bad at all. I also pressure washed part of the house. It was a beautiful day outside and we sure didn't waste it.

On another not, my sleep apnea must be improving because my c-pap is beginning to drive me crazy when previously, I could not sleep without it. The pressure has been waking me up and giving me serious dry mouth. I have a self adjusting machine, but apparently It is still too much. I have an appointment with my sleep MD later this month. Hopefully we will schedule another study and sooner rather than later I will be ridded of my machine. Oh what a happy day that will be.

That's all for now,
Marc

You Can Comment

I know there are folks reading my Blog, because they tell me occasionally. If you read, how about commenting every once in while so I can tell who is around.

Thanks,
Marc

Made if to the Century Mark

As posted previously, I had my fourth adjustment some two weeks ago. I then left town to help rebuild homes in Mississippi and finish off the week with some R&R at the beach. I did not have access to any scales so I didn't weight myself. When I returned home, I didn't make it to the gym until Tuesday of that this week. That is where I officially weigh myself. When I did, I was so please to see that I have finally made it to one of my mini goals and lost more than 100 lbs. Actually, as of today, I have lost 102 lbs. That means I have 23 more to go to make it to my initial goal weight and 48 to my dream weight.

I am still training for this 5K race in December. I am worried that I am not going to have enough stamina to run the entire thing. I am not worried about completing the race, I just don't know if I'll be able to run the whole thing. I am going to keep training and work a little harder at it for the next 5-6 weeks and see where I am then. I will be excited to complete it running or walking. It is certainly a far cry from 8 months ago when I got winded walking to the mailbox.

Take care all,
Marc

Fourth Adjustment

I had my fourth adjustment yesterday. I am up to 8cc's in a 10cc Vanguard band. No problems at all. Last night I had a bowl of chili for dinner and this morning a small bowl of Kashi Go Lean Crunch cereal. I'm pretty tight, but not uncomfortable.

I have lost 2/3 of the weight I want to lose. I'm pretty darn happy with my results thus far.

Take care,
Marc

Do the Scales Lie?

I got on the scales at the gym this morning after working out. They say I am down to 249, which would mean I broke the 100 lb mark. I should be jumping for joy, but I'm actually a bit suspicious that the reading wasn't accurate. If it were true, it would mean that I've lost 5-6 lbs since Monday. Highly unlikely.

So, I'll wait to celebrate until I confirm with another weigh in on Friday.

Have a great day,
Marc

Need an Adjustment

Seems the stories of others enjoying bad food has begun to rub off on me. I've made some poor food choices in the last two weeks. My MD says that when people begin to make bad choices it is usually a sign that it is time for an adjustment.

So I scheduled one for Friday. I have pretty strong break through hunger between meals that cause me to snack too often. But that is the beauty of the lap-band...instead of giving in to the hunger, I can have the band adjusted and do away with the hunger.

I am so close to losing 100 lbs. I am at 97 lbs gone. I know that this adjustment will put me over the edge.

I continue to train for the 5K race in December. I am able to run about 40% of 3.2 miles. I stagger walking and running. I don't have the stamina to fun for longer periods yet, but in intervals I am getting better. I just have to increase the running time and decrease the walking time until I am able to run the whole race.

Sounds fun huh?
Marc

Six Month Band-iversairy

Six months ago today I had surgery. It has been a great ride. I am so pleased with how things have gone thus far. As of today I am down 97 lbs. I feel better. I have more energy. Having lap-band surgery is one of the best decisions I have ever made.

Many know that I am training to run a 5K race in December in Knoxville, TN. I have been on a walk/run training schedule increasing my run time weekly. Today I actually complete the distance of a 5K (3.2 miles). It took 45 minutes and I ran about 1/3 of it. In my opinion, this is a huge accomplishment. Six months ago I was the guy who had the philosophy that I only ran if someone larger than me was chasing me.

I'm pretty darn tired now in my after lunch daze, but I must say I am quite proud of how far I have come in six months. I am looking forward to the future.

It is a beautiful day,
Marc

My Secret...Stay Busy

People always ask me what my secret is for having such great success with lap-band. I always tell them I try to follow the band rules the majority of the time and I exercise regularly. There certainly is no secret in that.

If I had to say there was a secret to my success, it would be staying busy. Before surgery it was not uncommon to take a day off of work and sit in front of the TV all day long eating junk non stop. Part of it was that I had NO energy and that creates a cycle of lethargy...eat junk...feel tired...get depressed...eat junk...feel tired...get depressed...you see the pattern.

Thankfully that pattern can be reversed and another cycle created...eat healthy...feel better...have more energy.

What I find now is if I have time to sit and do nothing, I naturally want to eat. So, I try to stay busy. I have even picked up an additional part time job to earn a little extra cash, but it helps me stay focused on my weight loss goals by keeping me busy.

Hopefully I will be able to incorporate other kinds of down time into my life that don't lead to food. But for right now, I'm staying busy.

Peace,
Marc

Still losing

As of today, I am down 92 lbs. I have gone from 351 to 259. My pants have gone from a 48-50 inch waist, to a 38 inch waist. I have gone from 3XL shirts, to plain old XL shirts.

Feel good,
Marc

Exercise

You know, I never thought in a million years that I would look forward to exercise. Don't get me wrong, there are things I would rather do, but on the whole I am learning to enjoy it. There are even times that I get frustrated when I can't go to the gym. i guess I'm learning to like the endorphin rush that comes with exercise.

Typically I start out with a 5 minute cardio warm up on the treadmill or bike. Next I do light weights focusing on toning my upper body. I usually throw in some ab work of some sort. Then I get on the treadmill and go for 40-45 minutes. Currently I am running one minute out of every five. I'm going to up it to two minutes out of five next week. When I am done, I stretch some and then go to the pool and the hot tub to stretch some more and relax a bit.

A full workout takes me 1.5 to 2 hours. If I'm in a hurry I modify and cut out the weights and pool time. Then I can trim it down to an hour.

I knocked out my workout this morning and believe it or not we do not have soccer practice or any meetings tonight. So...a peaceful night at home is on my horizon.

Peace,
Marc

Bugs Me, Big Time

It is a mixed blessing...something I have looked forward to, but on the other hand frustrates me.

Almost every person I come in contact with comments on my weight loss. Usually I am pleasant and answer their questions, make small talk, etc.

However, lately I have noticed a feeling welling up inside me. So often people will say, "you look great, I'll bet you feel better, I'm so proud of you". Instead of hearing the compliment, I often hear, "you looked like crap a few months ago, you must have felt absolutely terrible, you were a huge disappointment to us all." I know this is extreme, but I want to make a point. I have lost a lot of weight, but who I am as a person hasn't changed. My accomplishments in life are still the same. I'd like to think that pre-WLS I was more than just the sum of all my weight on the scales. I'd like to think that my value and what people are proud of me for is who I am and the difference I have made for others along the way.

I know this may sound whiny. It's kind of like the movie star that craves notoriety and and then complains that they have no private life.

Can I have it both ways? Can I allow people to be proud of me for my weight loss accomplishments and expect that they also recognize me apart from WLS.

Just a few of my thoughts today,
Marc

Five Month Post-Op Before & After Photo

Busy

I've just been busy...that is why I haven't posted in while. I've picked up a part-time job. I'm helping custom paint motorcycles. Well, mostly I sand, and sand, and then sand some more. Anyway, I needed to make some extra cash...and so that's what I am doing.

I did make a BIG decision this week. I decided that I needed to take my exercise to the next level and begin training for the 5K Jingle Bell run, a local holiday fun run in my home town. I've never run a race in my life. Why not start now?

Hopefully I'll get some pictures put up this weekend. Sunday is my five month bandiversairy.

Until then,
Marc

Big Weekend

It was a BIG weekend for the Gamble family. First off, last Friday was the first day of school for my girls, and...it was also my youngest daughter's seventh birthday. That evening we had a rehearsal dinner to go to for a wedding of a close friend. Both of my daughter's were in the wedding. Thankfully the rehearsal dinner food was protein heavy and band friendly.

Saturday was the wedding. My girl's had appointments all day, hair, nails, pictures, etc. I on the other hand had very little to do. I went to the gym in the morning, lifted weights, did the stair climber, hopped on the treadmill and even ran for two whole minutes of the 20 I spent walking. Because of boredom, I switched to the bike and finished up my cardio exercise.

Late afternoon I got ready for the wedding. I found an old suit in my closet that I thought I try on. The last time I wore it was before my oldest daughter was born. She is 11 going on 12. I looked good even if I do say so myself.

At the wedding I got to dance with both of my girls and even danced with the bride for one song. It was a great evening.

Saturday we finally had Erin's birthday party at the pool. It was a great way to finish off a fun weekend.

Peace,
Marc

Trip to Disney

We just returned from a week at Walt Disney World in Orlando, FL. My wife, two daughters, and I went. We did all four parks with and extra day in the Magic Kingdom. It was FANTASTIC! We had a BLAST! I wouldn't trade the time with my girls for anything in the world.

I found WDW very friendly for large people. I'm not as large as I once was, but I'm still pretty big. I didn't have any problems on any ride at all. I was able to find appropriate food choices at most places. Although, I did enjoy several treats throughout the week (the Mickey ice cream bar is to die for). We walked and walked and walked, so I definitely got my exercise in.

The true test came today when I went to the gym to workout. I couldn't wait any longer so I went and jumped on the scales and believe it or not, I lost 10 lbs while at Disney. I LOVE MY BAND!!!!

2nd Adjustment

I had my second Lap-Band adjustment last Friday, and finally...I understand restriction. So far I, before 2nd fill, I noticed myself getting full and eating smaller meals, but it certainly wasn't what I would call food restriction.

Now I know. Every meal that I have had since Friday has been too much. I have either prepared a meal or ordered something in a restaurant that I thought was sensible. I have yet to be able to finish what is on my plate. This is what I have been waiting for. The place where my body helps me make good decisions, and I don't have to do it all on will power alone.

I'm pretty excited about what the future holds for me. It is a good place to be.

peace out,
Marc

Asian Salad Art

When you are tired of fast food...make art.

Plateaued

I'm at a stand still...for several reasons I imagine:

1. I need another adjustment. Luckily I am scheduled for one on Friday. Hopefully I will get better restriction than I did after the first fill.

2. I've been traveling a good bit and hanging out with teenagers. No matter how hard you try, when you are subjected to steady doses of fast foods and college cafeterias it is next to impossible to be 100% compliant with banster rules.

3. I have let my exercise regimen slip while I have been traveling. However, I am determined to get back on track. I'll start with a trip to the gym tonight after a healthy dinner cooked at home using the fresh veggies I grew in my own back yard.

So...all of these problems are correctable. Oh yea, in two weeks we leave for a week vacation with the family in Disney World - auggg.

Three Month Photos & Goal Updates...

Here are my newest before and after pics. I am three months post-op today. Also, back in January I posted the following goals, and I thought I'd update you on how I am doing accomplishing them.

1. Start off with the obvious. I'd like to lose weight. I currently weigh 350 lbs. I'd love to get down to 200 lbs. I would be content at 225 lbs. That's what I weighed when I got married 16 years ago. I am 5' 11" so that isn't unrealistic.

Currently I am at 285. I have lost 66 lbs. I'm about half way there.

2. I like to be forever ridded of my cpap machine. Boy would I ever.

I am not rid of my cpap machine, but they did lower the pressure and eventually put me on a self adjusting machine so that as I lose weight it will automatically adjust with me.

3. I'd love to have no hint of type II diabetes.

Diabetes...GONE

4. I'd love to have normal blood pressure and get off my meds.

Blood pressure is more normal than it has ever been (125/75 yesterday). However, I have not gone off my meds yet.

5. I'd love to be able to wear my original wedding band. I think it is a size 11. I currently have a cheap replacement that is a size 17 I think.

I am currently wearing my original wedding band and can easily take it on and off. I am also wearing my college ring on the other hand.

6. I'd love to see if being lighter might help lessen the chronic mild depression I have had for the past 6-7 years.

I still take my daily 40mg of Prozac, but I must admit I feel better emotionally than I have in some time.

7. I'd like to continue coaching my daughter's soccer team, but do so without gasping for breath during the easiest drills.

The season is over, thank goodness. I needed a break.

8. I'd like to take up mountain biking.

Haven't yet, but do ride at least 10 miles on the bike whenever I go to the gym.

9. I'd like to take some form of martial arts.

Not yet - but I have lots of time left.

10. I'd like to weight lift again, I did a good bit in high school.

I am lifting 2-3 times per week currently. I really need a partner to lift with me...it is just better that way.

Three month check up

I went to the surgeon today for my three month check up. I am down to 285 lbs. (my last post said I was 283, wrong...I was dehydrated). That means I am down 66 lbs. That is pretty darn amazing if I do say so myself.

After I return from Mississippi in July, I will have another fill. I hope that will help me continue with the steady weight loss I am experiencing.

I believe with all my heart that 1. Eating protein first, 2. Not drinking with meals, 3. Drinking at least 64 oz of water a day, & 4. Exercising at least 3-4 times per week all add up to success. Of course there are varying degrees of success; increased energy, inches lost, new clothes, actual pounds lost, etc.

All in all, lap-band is the best decision I have made in years. Over the long haul, it saved my life.

Peace,
Marc

Down Some More

I had not weighed in a week or so until last night. The scales at the gym say that I am down to 283 lbs. WOW!

I'm not sure that is accurate though. I spent most of the weekend out in the sun - sweating a lot. I probably was a little dehydrated. I think I will go by my surgeon's office and get an official weight after I work out this afternoon.

Slowing Down

Well...the weightloss has slowed down. I knew it would. It is still a bummer though. I continue to lose 1-2 lbs. per week, which is great. It is certainly more than I was losing prior to surgery.

I am still exercising regularly. I really have to make it a priority or a busy day will slip up on me and get by without any exercise. I find I am more likely to follow through if I go in the morning, especially if we have any night activities at all.

The kids are gone this weekend. So I am finally following through with the Christmas gift I gave Darla. I am putting new closet organizer in our walk in closet. I tore everything out and am starting from scratch. Hopefully we will be much more organized when I am done. If nothing else, it is a great chance to weed out all those clothes that are out of style or that we cannot wear anymore.

Until next time - Peace out,
Marc

2nd Month Post-op Pics

You can't tell much difference in the third photo, but I sure can.

Finally, perhaps?

I had a fill a week ago. For several days afterward I could not tell any difference at all. I was making good choices, but felt no restriction at all. I called my surgeon, he said I'd have to wait six weeks for another adjustment - and told me to be careful to follow the bandster rules.
Well over the past two days I have felt greater restriction. Even more today. I had some scrambled eggs for breakfast and a protein bar after my workout. I'm stuffed (I have been drinking lots of water, workouts do that for me.) So, maybe I'm one of those that it takes a week or so for and adjustment to kick in. I don't understand it, but I am glad to have the restriction none-the-less.

Peace out,
Marc

1st Band Adjustment

Last Friday, my birthday, I went in for my first band adjustment. It was pretty uneventful and painless. Dr. Boyce did indeed insert saline into my band. I took it easy for most of the weekend, but never really felt anything different from the day before. In fact, since then I still haven't felt anything. I have virtually NO additional restriction. I called Dr. Boyce's office this morning to check in and told Sarah, the nurse, that I have no restriction. She said she'd talk to Dr. Boyce and told me to call back Wednesday. So I will. I don't know what the plan will be, hopefully another fill.

None-the-less, I continue to lose weight. I am now below 300 lbs (298 to be exact). I haven't weighed less than 300 lbs in 10 years. I feel great. I continue to work out regularly and feel that the exercise is the key to rapid success. I can do various cardio exercises at my target heart rate for 45 minutes now. That is a huge increase over a few months ago.

More later,
Marc

Good news!

I think it is great news, I didn't gain any weight in France. In fact, I lost 2 lbs - a miracle if you ask me.

Also, my sleep apnea is improving. I went to my sleep MD a few weeks ago because I was having problems with severe dry mouth and belching during sleep. They decided the pressure was too high on my cpap machine. They lowered it. I went in again today and told them the problems were better but not resolved. So, the MD is putting me on a self adjusting cpap machine that will automatically adjust throughout the night and as my weight comes off.

One more thing. I bought a new pair of jeans yesterday. A SIZE 40 WAIST!!!! I started out at a 48" waist. You can buy 40's in any store, not just the "Big & Tall" places.

It's a beautiful day!
Marc

Home from France

It was a wonderful trip I saw Reims Cathedral, Sainte Sulpice, Sacra Cur, Sainte Chapelle's Notre Dame de Paris, Rouen, and Chartres, all amazing. I also visited Chalone sur Saone south east of Paris where we worshiped at the Taize community. The whole trip was very inspiring.
I ate well while in France. I ate sensible portions of whatever I wanted. I enjoyed croissants for breakfast, quiche and pannini's for lunch, and desserts and expresso after dinner each evening, it was all very tasty.
I don't think I gained any weight, my clothes all still fit the same. I did walk a lot in Paris. So I got my exercise in, I have blisters on my feet to show for it.

It was an experience I will never forget.

Au Revoir,
Marc

New Measurements

When I first took my measurements pre-op they were:

Stomach - 56"
Waist - 49"
Neck - 22.5"
Bicept - 18"

As of today they are:

Stomach - 49"
Waist - 44"
Neck - 20"
Bicept - 16"

Oh yeah, I was able to get my oringinal wedding band and college ring on today.

Cool huh?
Marc

Swelling virtually gone

Well, the post-op swelling must all be gone now, because I have very little if any restriction. I am having to make good food choices and really control my portion size. I am staying away from carbs and trying to focus on protein and veggies.

I am leaving for France on Wednesday. I'm sure that the temptations will be huge over there. I am not going to be a strict as I have been up to this point. However, that is a choice I am making. I am intending to watch portions and food choices, but I am going to have at least one French croissant.

I continue to work out regularly. I can tell that my heart and lungs are getting stronger. I am having to increase the intensity of my cardio workouts to maintain my target heart rate. I am also lifting weights 2-3 times per week. I know that more muscle mass mean higher metabolism and aids in burning fat.

I am doing well at getting my fluids in. I cannot lie though, I really miss diet coke in a fountain cup with lots of ice. Rest assured though, I would trade them in again over and over for the new person that I am becoming.

I am receiving lots of support from friends and family. There are still lots of folks who don't understand; however, I'm not sure they will ever understand. For the overwhelming part, people have been very supportive, complimentary, and sometimes inquisitive. I do not mind the questions at all. Hopefully what I have chosen to do might help someone else choose to take control of their lives in some way also.

I'll post again when I return from Paris, hopefully I won't gain any weight while there.

Peace,
Marc

One Month Post-op

My first before and after pics:

Great Weekend - Even Better Monday

I turned out to be a beautiful weekend. Friday night it stormed all night, causing our soccer games to be cancelled on Saturday, which meant...FREE DAY! We were lazy for most of the day, and then I went to the gym late Saturday afternoon. I actually enjoyed being on the treadmill. I did 2 miles in 40 minutes. That's pretty dang fast for an out of shape fat guy.

Sunday was High School Senior Sunday at our church. I'm in charge of coordinating this. I was pretty excited because the suit I haven't worn in years, fit nicely; and the shirt I used to love to wear didn't strangle me at the collar. I got lots of comments on how nice I looked. I felt good.

Then today, Monday, I went in for my 2nd post-op appointment. I got on the scales first thing, drum roll please.........I am down 41 lbs since I started all of this. I was and am pretty amazed. Then to top it all off they moved me to phase III of the bariatric diet, so for lunch today I had a grilled chicken breast with onion, mushrooms, & green peppers sauted on top, finished with a little mozzarella cheese. It was very good.

My band is working. Not that I didn't think it would - I just don't have lots of positive weight loss experiences to look back on.

Onward,
Marc

Rebirth of my lawn mower

So...I'm not very mechanically inclined. Frankly, that is an understatement. I have always been intimidated my any car, mower, appliance, etc. repair. I'm great with computers, but engines give me the willies.

All of my life I have wanted a motorcycle, but on principle I believe that if you can't do your own basic repairs, you don't have any business owning a bike.

My push mower...I bought a cheap push mower a few years ago to do trim work around the yard. Last summer it wouldn't start, so I didn't use it at all. This spring I called a small engine repair shop and asked how much it would cost to fix it. They said it would be cheaper to buy a new one.

With new resolve I went to the used bookstore and bought an old book on small engine repair. I read most of it and grasped about 1/2 of it theoretically. Last evening came the time to try my new knowledge out practically. I pulled the spark plug, the air filter, cleaned out the carburetor, inspected and cleaned other parts as necessary. I dumped all the old oil and gas; then refilled both. I put everything back together and gave the pull chord a good yank. Believe it or not, it started up. It blew gray smoke for a few minutes, but then settled down and ran like a champ.

My first engine repair. I'm quite proud of my accomplishment. Then, because I'm feeling so much better due to weightloss I mowed all the areas that I can't get to with my riding lawn mower. My daily exercise must be paying off, because I didn't huff and puff like I thought I would. It was a good evening all the way around.

Later daze,
Marc

Pumping Iron

Well not really...However I am quite proud of myself and my level of commitment both to making good food choices and to exercising regularly.

Easter Sunday we joined my wife's family at the lake for a day of fun. There was lots of good food there, but I brought my own and stuck with it. I must say, my tuna salad was very good. I decided to stay away from the food table as much as possible, the strategy worked well for me. It was a good day.

I've been going to the gym almost every day. I am up to walking 35 minutes while increasing the speed and incline. Yesterday I met with the trainer and he took me through some simple strength training exercises that I can start when I get the go ahead from the MD's office. I enjoy going to the gym. It makes me feel good and boosts my confidence level.

Until next time...

The best thing about Easter

The best thing about Easter for a lap-bander, other than the amazing gift from God in Jesus Christ, is boiled eggs. Especially for someone still on mushies. I love egg salad. I've got about a dozen eggs to use creatively over the next few days.

Yum.

Update

I continue to do very well post-op. I am beginning to have some hunger issues. Usually late afternoon and late evening are the hardest. However, I am making good choices and sticking to the plan prescribed my Dr. Boyce.

I joined a gym, Courtsouth, this week. I've enjoyed walking there. It makes me feel like I am doing something proactive to gain control of my health. All the diet stuff seems like I am always saying "no" I can't have this or that, but I get to say "yes" to light exercise.

I'm confused right now as to where my port actually is. I have two possible incision sites with hard masses under them. I've e-mailed the nurse to see if she can tell me which is my port. If not, I'll wait until I go in for my next check-up on the 24th. It is not a problem, I'd just like to know.

Later daze,
Marc

Made it through the weekend

I think I did very well this weekend. I stuck to the "mushies" phase of the plan quite well. Saturday night we had a big party downtown with lots of fun finger foods. I ate about 6 cheese cubes over a three hour span and had two little sandwich wrap slices, very small. That's it. I didn't eat the chocolate covered strawberry or white macadamian nut cookies, or chips and salsa. I'm pretty darn proud of myself.

However, I did sing karaoke and it was BAD...and not in a good way.

I do find myself getting more hungry faster, especially in the evening. I'm making good snack choices though and trying to convince myself that slight hunger pains are your body's sign that fat is being burned.

Over and out,
Marc

1st Post-Op Check Up

Well I almost goofed. I thought my 1st post-op appointment was Friday, tomorrow, but the office called, yesterday, to remind me that my appointment was today. Whew!

I went in, got on the scales (emptied my pockets of wallet, check-book, keys, etc.) Drum roll please.... I have lost 17 lbs since surgery for a total of 27 lbs. Yahoo!

And, I get to move to phase II, mushy foods, one day earlier than I thought.

Oh what a beautiful morning...

1st NSV

I haven't weighed since surgery, by choice.

I also haven't worn pants that need a belt since surgery. I've been comfy in shorts etc.

Yesterday I put on my jeans with my belt and had to pull my belt two notches tighter.

And then today I reached in my closet and pulled out some pants that last summer I could NOT button. They went on easily and look a little big on me.

Can you hear me doing the happy dance?

One Week Post-op

One week ago today at this time I was begging the nurse to remove the catheter. He told me that if I could walk to the nurses station and back he would remove it. I practically jogged there and back. Thankfully - he kept his end of the bargain.

It has been a good week. I am healing nicely. I have just a little soreness remaining, especially around my port incision. I have been walking, and today walked down the hill in front of my house so that I would have to walk back up it. It felt good.

I am WAY over the liquid phase of this new lifestyle. I've always enjoyed soup, but I'm ready to move on. On Saturday I stopped by P.F. Changs and got some hot & sour soup. I had to puree it, but it tasted so good.

I also stopped at Smoothy King and got a strawberry, low-carb, protein smoothy. It was HORRIBLE. I love Smoothy King, but I will NEVER have another one of their low-carb drinks. Yuck.

I haven't weighed myself. First of all our home scales are broken, but second I think I might have the tendency to become obsessive about the number on the scales. So, for now I am only going to weight at my MD's office. My next appointment is Friday. I know I have lost a little weight because my wedding ring isn't as tight. Also, my pants bunch up at the sides when I pull my belt tight. Feels good.

Until next time - peace out,
Marc

All has gone well

Well, I am four days out from surgery and feeling remarkably well.

Surgery day went without a hitch. IV's went in correctly, shots were minimal, and most important, the catheter came out quickly after I came to. My stomach hurt pretty badly after surgery. It was much like someone had punched me in the stomach several times and then forced me to do about a billion sit-ups.

I was surprised by how tired I was. I must have taken a nap about every other hour. Sleeping was initially uncomfortable because I usually sleep on my side and because of my incisions I had to stay on my back. I'm doing better now and can sleep on my sides.

Today I have begun to deal with some hunger issues. I haven't had any trouble getting liquids in. I haven't been overly hungry and frankly it is difficult to tell is I am physically hungry or just wanting to eat out of habit or for comfort. When I feel like I am actually hungry, I try a protein shake and that seems to knock the edge off. I am also eating sugar free pop-sicles, sugar free jello, soup broths, and drinking water. I have to do liquids until next Friday, that is one more week starting tomorrow. I'm going to have to branch out for some flavor. I may ask my wife to stop at P.F. Changs and get some hot and sour soup. I love their hot and sour soup.

Tomorrow I am going to have to get out of the house. I may go crazy being off for two weeks. Being home also makes me want to eat more frequently. Perhaps I'll go see a movie, walk the mall, or take the dog to a park.

Overall I am pleased with my progress. I'll keep you updated as I can.

I did it!

I'm a loser now. I've always wanted to be a loser. I'll write more later.

peace out,

Today is the day

Wish me luck, and say a prayer.
Surgery day, 341 lbs (down from 351 lbs.)

One more day

Tomorrow is the big day. I wish I had chosen the earlier surgery time. I don't have to be at the hospital until 11 AM. Since I've been waking up so early, it will be a long wait until surgery time.

Since yesterday I've had a steady stream of family visiting. My brother and his family arrived early yesterday morning. They are fun to hang out with and I'm glad they are here. My dad and stepmother came for dinner last night. I grilled steaks. They were amazing. It may be the last full steak that I ever eat. It was definitely one of the best I've ever eaten.

Today my mom and grandparents arrive. We're grilling hamburgers for lunch. Then we'll just hang out for the rest of the day. I'm glad I get to see everyone before surgery, but truth be told, I don't want to see anyone after surgery.

I guess I am getting a bit anxious. I have been short tempered with Darla. I hate that I am. It is sad that most often those who are closest to us receive the brunt of our anxiety in stressful situations. She is a God send in my life. She has been very supportive and I can't imagine going through all of this without her.

I must say I am looking forward to my two week off of work. I plan to get outside and walk as much as I can. I may also catch up on some movies that I have been wanting to see. There is work to be done around the house. I doubt I'll get too any of that. I don't want to risk screwing up the surgery. I do wish I had gotten the yard mowed before now, oh well...

On TV they are covering the Knoxville Marathon. Who knows...perhaps some day I'll be on the starting line with all of those runners.

Until tomorrow...

Pre-op Testing

This past Monday I went for my pre-op testing. It was pretty uneventful except that I had lost 10 lbs. I told the nurse that she was lying. She showed me the records and believe it or not I had indeed lost 10 lbs, making me weight an official 341 lbs.

So today I thought I'd post my measurements. For me, the change in these will be the real test to see if I am successful or not. Prepare yourself, this is not for the faint of heart.

Stomach - 56"
Waist - 49"
Neck - 22.5"
Bicept - 18"

I tried to measure my thy, but due to the "cone" shape I couldn't decide where to measure. Let's just say their huge and be done with it.

I'm leaving tomorrow for Mississippi to help rebuild homes over spring break. When I return I will only be days away from surgery. Finally.

I do have a "health club" story to tell, I'll save it for another post.

Peace out, Marc

New Drug

The new drug, not NSAID, the MD gave me yesterday seems to make a big difference. Yeah for narcotics.

Off NSAIDs

So, like I said, I went to my diet class last week. They said we all needed to get off of our NSAIDs, anti-inflammatory meds. I had begun this process previously, or shall we say the FDA began it for me. I had been on Viox for years for joint pain (interestingly enough, I was originally put on it for headaches). When Viox was taken off the market, I switched to Celebrex. It worked great.

When my wife changed jobs, and insurance companies to the one that approved my lap-band procedure in one day, I got new prescriptions for my meds and took them to the pharmacy. Well-well, John Deere wouldn't cover Celebrex for me, grrrrrrrr. So I stopped taking Rx NSAIDs. I went to taking over the counter naproxin. It worked okay.

After my class last week, I decided I give them all up. Cold turkey. ........ Excuse me, but DAMN I hurt from head to toe! I ache all over and my joints feel like there is rust in them.

I went to my PCP today and he prescribed a mild narcotic to ease the pain. He says it is not addictive. I hope not, but frankly I don't care. I'm ready for some relief. I'll let you know how it goes.

I have my pre-op testing Monday. Only 18 days to go from today.

What to do?

Dr. Boyce's office called yesterday to say that someone had cancelled their surgery and that they could bump me up to March 13.

Actually they left that message on my machine and my daughter forgot to tell me after she checked the messages.

So, I called them back today and told them that I really wanted to go ahead on the 13th. However, there was a caveat. I would need Dr. Boyce to release me to travel to Mississippi the following Saturday, the 18th. I am leading, along with two other adults, a group of 95 people to Biloxi over spring break to work on homes ravaged by Hurricane Katrina. I have already been twice, and our church has been going once a month since October.

Well Dr. Boyce wouldn't release me that soon, and I understand that completely. Then I had to decide whether I would bail on the trip and opt for the earlier surgery, or wait for the later date. I called my wife, a few friends, and my trip co-leaders. It became clear to me that I need to go on the trip. It was a tough decision, but I believe the right one.

So, after working for the better part of a week hanging sheet rock, I'll come home and have just a few days to prepare for surgery. I feel good about it.

Pre-Op Class

Today was nutrition class day. From 8 AM until 12 noon, Johnnie filled us in on what to expect before, during, and after surgery. Most of the people in the class were RNY bypass patients. I was the only lap-bandster. I would say 70% of the information presented was bypass specific. I must say, I am even more sure of my decision to have lap-band after today. She would start a topic and then say to me, you won't have to deal with this. No after surgery tubes, no daily vitamin packs to keep you from dieing, and far fewer surgery risks in general.

I do generally feel better about choosing Dr. Boyce. They said today that he will be fills after 6 weeks. Someone recently told me that he wouldn't do them until after 12 weeks.

I bought my starter pack of protein shakes, powder, etc. I also scheduled my first post-op appointment for April 6.

Johnnie gave us a pretty extensive to-do list before surgery. It is good to be busy; it helps the time pass until I become an official loser.

Second Support Group Meeting

I attended my second lap band support group meeting tonight. A nurse was there from a surgeons office in another city. She not only knows the surgery medically, she is a patient as well. She had surgery in 2001, (she looks too young to have had surgery that long ago).

We just did a lot of Q&A tonight. We had one girl there tonight who was five days post-op. It was good to see her doing so well. She was still on clear liquids, but tomorrow was going to be able to have full liquids. Frankly, she didn't look to me like she needed surgery. I imagine she will be pretty successful.

I did get confirmation that I'll be okay going to France 4 1/2 weeks after surgery. In fact the nurse, as well as the rest of the group said it was the perfect time to go because I would be mostly healed and not had a fill yet. They all said enjoy myself, moderately mind you. They even gave me the thumbs up for some wine tasting while staying in the Burgandy region of France.

I'm getting excited.

Burgundy
Brandy
Organdy
Brigand
Bargained
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Headaches & New Cell Phones

I've had a migraine headache since yesterday afternoon. It sucks. It hurt so bad last night, I could not sleep. Finally, I crashed and this morning it was better. However, about noon today it came back with a vengeance. I left work and came home to medicate myself. As of right now it is working.

I also got a new cell phone. It's one of those cool RAZR phones, a black one. I downloaded AC/DC's Back in Black for my ring tone. Reminds me of Junior High School, good times.

Better Attitude

Several people have asked me over the past few weeks if "everything is okay". Apparently I have been wearing a scowl for quite some time. Well, I guess I have felt like I must have looked. But today, I feel better. It is amazing what a little good news can do to a solemn face.

Going away for the weekend with work/church.

Peace out,

Great Day

It has been a great day. My surgeon's office faxed my paperwork off to John Deere yesterday for pre-op certification. To my surprise and elation, my surgeon's office called me this morning to say that I had been approved. That's right, one day approval. Can't beat that.

I've been scheduled for lap-band surgery on March 27.

Anxious

I've been waking up at weird hours with a tightening in my gut and the thought, "Will this ever end?"

Will the blob of my body ever end? Will the waiting for insurance approval ever end? Will my love affair with food ever end? Will the cravings, which I am powerless over, ever end? Will the sideways looks and hushed comments of well meaning, and sometimes not, people ever end? Will my physical dependence on regular meds ever end (legal ones I might point out)? Will the dependence on this damn Cpap machine ever end?

I'm ready for these things to end, and a new beginning to commence.

Until then...

Goals for WLS

So I've got some reasons I want to have WLS. I thought I might list some of them.

1. Start off with the obvious. I'd like to loose weight. I currently weigh 350 lbs. I'd love to get down to 200 lbs. I would be content at 225 lbs. That's what I weighed when I got married 16 years ago. I am 5' 11" so that isn't unrealistic.

2. I like to be forever ridded of my cpap machine. Boy would I ever.

3. I'd love to have no hint of type II diabetes.

4. I'd love to have normal blood pressure and get off my meds.

5. I'd love to be able to wear my original wedding band. I think it is a size 11. I currently have a cheap replacement that is a size 17 I think.

6. I'd love to see if being lighter might help lessen the chronic mild depression I have had for the past 6-7 years.

7. I'd like to continue coaching my daughter's soccer team, but do so without gasping for breath during the easiest drills.

8. I'd like to take up mountain biking.

9. I'd like to take some form of martial arts.

10. I'd like to weight lift again, I did a good bit in high school.

I have some other life goals, but the ones listed above are all weight related. I think they are do-able, and I will give them my darndest if insurance will approve my request.

Keep praying!

Not all the steaks fault

So in my last post I whined about how my tummy hurt from a delicious Outback steak. Yeah...later in the week I discovered it wasn't the steak, but was in fact a kidney stone. I passed it today at 4:30 PM while standing in front of a urinal at work. Can you say OUCH!

I have had kidney stones all of my life, since I was in junior high school. I've had surgery three times to have them removed. I guess I was lucky that this time it only hurt like hell and then passed quickly.

It did make the presentation I had to do for a church committee tonight MUCH EASIER.

Peace out, and the stone is too.

Off Topic - but just a bit

I don't usually eat steak. I really like it, but my wife doesn't really and frankly it is too expensive for me most of the time. If I do get to have steak, I either like to grill it myself or eat at Outback.

This past Sunday we went to Outback. I got a gift card for Christmas and thought I'd use it with my lovely family. We had the works. I had a 14 oz. Rock Hampton Rib-eye. It was amazing...at the time.

About 4 PM in the afternoon I began to feel uncomfortable. It progressively got worse. Just a really nasty stomach ache. And today...it is Tuesday and I still have the remnants of that stomach ache. YUCK!

Perhaps this was preparation for the life I am choosing with WLS.

A late addition to my new years resolutions for 2006 is to lay off the steak...well at least 14 oz. at a time.

1st Support Group Meeting

I went to my first support group meeting the other night. It is a group specifically for those who have had lap band surgery and those who are interested.

Overall it was a good experience. I was a bit nervous because I never do well with small talk and meeting new people. I tend to be pretty introverted a good bit of the time.

The folks were very supportive of one another. The facilitator told her story and was very open and honest about her journey. She is a friend of my wife's and I imagine will be a great help in my journey.

I must admit, I was a bit surprised at the number of folks that had been banded some time ago and still appeared to have a good ways to go. Of course, I don't know where they started or what there journey has been like. It was a misconception on my part. I came away with a better understanding of how different the journey is for each individual. This was important for me to realize.

On the way home...I blew it. Like Ben & Jerry's Chubby Hubby, blew it. I have much to learn.

Until next time...

Initial Consult Today

I met with Dr. Boyce this morning and all went well, for the most part.

I have decided that the lap band procedure the is right surgery for me. Dr. Boyce is fine with that. However, he did say that about a year ago, John Deere Select set a policy that they would only cover lap band if there were contraindications to performing the traditional bypass surgery. For example, you had previous abdominal surgery that resulted in much scar tissue. Then they would approve lap band. Dr. Boyce didn't know if this was still the case. I hope not.

Anyway, I told Dr. Boyce that I wanted to go ahead and try for lap band approval. We'll see what happens.