Monday, February 26, 2007

Out of my comfort zone

For the past two weeks I've been recovering under the watchful eyes of my grandparents. Not having much of appetite, and not being able to drive I've been content with staying in their house. I knew sooner or later I would have to break my comfortable bubble and return to my house. I've been scared and concerned about my willingness to stick with the plan. Before the surgery, I just knew that I would be able to do it. Well, thinking it and doing it, is two different things.

On Saturday, I left my grandparents house to begin the journey on my own. Before I reached my home, my will was tested. On my block alone, I have to pass at least 5 fast food restaurants. Restaurants that I would frequently visit, sometimes daily. As I entered my stuffy home, I was overcome with emotion. How would I do this with no one watching??? How would I succeed all on my own??? Could I really do it????

As I began unpacking, I remembered something I'd heard in church a while ago. I remembered that God never leaves me. So in that moment of despair, I was filled with such hope. To know that even when I feel so alone, God fills that space with comfort. I've told you before that I thank God for all the support I've been given from my family and friends. It gives me strength, encouragement.

Wednesday, February 21, 2007

Report from the doctor...

Ok... I told you yesterday that I weighed myself on my home scale. I can't tell you the pressure my parents put on me to tell them the results. But I kept my word, and I didn't tell anyone until after I left the doctors office.

Well, are you ready to hear the results. Well, I have GREAT NEWS!!!!

According to the scale at the doctors office, I've lost 15 pounds this week!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! My first goal has been met. I can't tell you the satisfaction of seeing the number 272.4 on the scale. I wanted to hug every nurse/doctor in the place!!! I must thank them for granting my tool to a NEW ME!!!!!

But that's not all....According to the results I've lost a total of 21 pounds since February 8th...Now that I can't believe, but I certainly am glad.

I thank God, for first blessing me through a successful surgery. I thank him all the more, for walking every step with me through this healing process. I believe with my whole heart, that whatever God promises, He will accomplish...For in Him there is NO failure.

So I'm on my way, I can't stop now...

Tuesday, February 20, 2007

One week in the books!!!

Ok... I'm excited on so many levels..To the point that I can't really put into words how I feel.

To start, if someone had told me I could survive on liquids only for an entire week, and not be hungry, I wouldn't even believe it... But, I have. I really noticed today, that I'm doing just fine with my water, jello, Popsicle's... In reality, if I had a couple more days of this, I probably would have lost my mind!!!

Well, know its time for the next phrase of this adventure, and I'll admit, I'm getting a little nervous. ***Ok, because I trust that you won't tell anyone, I did something today that I promised myself I would do. Well, today before I was taking a shower I noticed a scale in my grandparents bathroom. Why, I'm just noticing, I don't have a clue. Well, against my own judgement I stepped on it. Needless to say, I won't believe what I saw until tomorrow. And I can't tell you until tomorrow as well. Sorry, I just can't put this item out until it's confirmed or denied, but trust me you'll be the first to know. Now remember this is just between you and me.****

I go to the doctor for my post-op visit tomorrow..Tomorrow, will result in either tears of sadness because I didn't meet my first goal, or tears of joy because for the first time, I set a weight loss goal, and I would have meet that goal.

For the next two weeks I will be on a soft food diet. That means I will only be allowed to eat food that can be mushed up. Things like canned tuna in water, baked fish, watermelon, baby food, Low Fat oatmeal, grits, Low Fat/Sugar Free yogurt, eggs, mashed potatoes, and Low Fat cottage cheese. Exciting, I know!!!!! The goal for the next to weeks, is to eat at least 50 grams of protein a day. In addition, I am under guidelines as far as nutrient information is considered. According to my doctor, I am to have no more than 6 grams of fat, and 3 grams of sugar per serving. In preparation for the next phrase of this adventure, my Grandparents and I went grocery shopping today,you'd be amazed how long it takes to shop when you have to look at every label, to ensure that you are meeting requirements. Three hours, and three grocery stores later, we'd found everything on the list.

Have you ever gotten excited going down the tuna aisle???? No????? Well, you'd be surprise what the anticipation of tasting actual food feels like. When we reached the baby food aisle, my giddiness reached another level. I know, I know, I maybe stretching this giddy thing, but seriously...I've never in my life, that I can remember, been excited to eat baby food, and I can't wait until tomorrow. Did you know they have kinds of baby food???? ****Mothers, please pardon my ignorance, but this is all new to me!!!!!***** I mean they make peaches, squash, carrots...But here's what got me...They even make macaroni and cheese, and lasagna with meat sauce. I'm telling you, if they aren't good, I'll be really disappointed. But at least I would have tried them.

Until tommorow....and remember don't tell anyone our secret...

Sunday, February 18, 2007

Thoughts and goals

OK...since my surgery, I've had experience serious lack of mobility. I can't drive, and I can't walk very fast, so going anywhere farther than the corner has proved to be challenging. Throughout these past five days it's occurs to me that there are several things that I should have done before my surgery. I encourage anyone that is thinking of this surgery, or any like it to consider the following:

Things I would have done differently:

1. Gotten my eyebrows arched. Everyday, I looked in the mirror, I am embarrassed..I mean really, I look like a wolf..and not a very pleasant one at that.

2. Gotten my feet done. Again, everyday, I look at my feet, and I think to myself, " Your mother raised you better than that."

3. Relaxed, by taking a long bath..Pampered myself, light some candles, turn on some soft jazz.

4. Finally, I would have gotten a good night sleep. I spent so much time the day before my surgery running around, my mind was still running when it was time for me to go to bed.

Please take my advice and keep these things updated. Don't be me...

In addition to having tons of free time on my hands, I've done a lot of thinking. I mean, there's only so much time you can spend on the Internet before your eyes start to cross. There's only so many movies that you can re-watch without thinking, "Why am I watching this for the thousandth time?" Or better yet, laughing at parts you've seen before, only to stop mid-chuckle, because it really wasn't that funny...

So today in the midst of my third nap, YES I AM SLEEPING AGAIN!!!!!!!

I thought to myself what are your goals now that you've had this surgery. I decided that they must be weight, and non-weight related goals. So here's what I remember, I have been SLEEP, most of the day!!!!!

Weight Goals:

**** Some may be wondering what's my highest weight: 297.0 in January 2007****

Ultimate goal weight: 160 pounds
Current weight ( as of 2/12/07): 287.8 pounds
Net weight to lose: 127.8 pounds

I go back to the doctor on Wednesday for my first weigh in, and if that scale doesn't say 272...Well, lets just say it's going to be smoke in the city!!!! I'm determined to drop 15 pounds this week. I think I can do it. Today I increased my walking from my grandparent block, to walking at least 8 blocks. I'm on it people!!! I refused for this surgery to be done in vain.

Other non-weight related goals:

1. The most important reason for me having this surgery is because I am a diabetic. I was diagnosed in 2003, and I take Metformin 500mg three times a day. I want off the meds, and the sooner the better. It's time for it to GO.

2. To wear a size 14/16 in tops and bottoms
***Currently, wearing a 26/28 in both****

3. To be able to buy bras in a regular store. Most people I meet think having large breasts is cool..So the opposite.

4. To be able to cross legs comfortably. I don't remember ever doing it..But I'm going to get there.

5. To get rid of this back fat. Seriously, where did it come from. One day I looked up and my shirt was just stuck in one the pockets. I don't remember getting it, but I'll be happy when it's gone. In fact I wish is Goodbye, and Good riddance Today..

6. To be able to walk without my thighs rubbing together. I live in Texas, and in the summer it's got to be hotter than hell...and I'm trying to wear cute skirts to keep warm, and my thighs keep sticking. I'm through with it. I'm to old/young to have to wear some kind of short under everything to keep this from happening...

7. Ok, I've stood up and am looking in the mirror, to identify things that need to change...and I've decided, I want a butt. As long as I can remember, I've been flat as a board. I believe anything is possible so, I want a butt. I want to be able to wear my tops tucked in, and not have to wonder where my butt should be.

Alright, I think that's about it...I'll be sure to update when I think of more. But praise God, I'm sleepy again.

****Sorry...just thought of something else..I want to go skydriving. I've always wanted to go, but you have to be under 250 pounds...As soon as the scale says 249.9, I'm signing up!!!!

Friday, February 16, 2007

Day 2 & 3: Keeping things honest

Well...I've made it to day 3!!!!

Last night, I decided sleep was more important than being tough. I had two teaspoons of some pain medicine, and before I knew it..I was knocked out!!!! I thank God that I had a good rest-filled slumber, I really needed it.

It crossed my mind that I haven't mentioned what I've been able to eat over the past few days. Due to the surgery, and the effect of having a swollen stomach, I am only able to eat clear-liquids. So basically for seven days, I can eat, or maybe drink is a better word: water, ice chips, sugar-free jello, crystal light, sugar-free Popsicles, and broth. According to the surgeon, my goal is 64 oz. everyday. After writing down everything I ate yesterday, I was excited to learn I could eat a lot more than I thought.

So this is what I normally have during the day...

*****It is important to note that drinking with meals is not recommended, and it's preferred that you wait at least one hour after you've eaten to drink......******

Morning:

1 bottled water -16.9 fl/ oz

Breakfast

Chicken/Beef broth- 4-6 fl oz
1 sugar-free jello- 3.25 fl. oz

Snack

1 bottled water- 16.9 fl. oz

1 sugar free Popsicle- 2.0 fl oz

Dinner

Chicken/Beef broth- 4-6 fl. oz
1 sugar-free jello- 3.25 fl. oz.
1 sugar-free Popsicle- 2.0 fl. oz


Snack

1 bottled water- 16.9 fl oz.


I noticed today that I can eat a lot more in the evenings than I can in the morning. I will have to watch this once I'm able to go back on solid foods. Which by the way is in another 2.5 weeks.

Also, pushed by my grandmother and mom, I started walking at least 20-30 minutes a day. While I can't stand to admit it, they were right when they said it would make me feel better.

In addition, I has my first visitor today. John came over, and took me to Best Buy to get a new computer, and to Bath, Bed, and Beyond to get a much needed neck pillow. I have to admit getting out the house, and hanging out with him, made things seems almost back to normal. It wasn't until I got really tired on the way back that we both looked at each other, " oh yeah, you did just have surgery!!!!" Anyway today was a great day!!!

Day 2 & 3: Keeping things honest

The following was written over a two day span...However, I was just to tried, frustrated, and any other adjective to describe the situation.

After feeling reasonably good on Tuesday, the day of my surgery, I was expecting the same ability on Day 2. Boy, was I seriously mistaken. Perhaps it was my optimistic thinking that set me up for huge disappointment. As I attempted to sleep, Tues night, I soon realized no matter what I did, how many pillows I tried to fluff there was no comfort to be found. Not one for taking pain medicine, I thought I'd just rough it out.

Perhaps, it was the lack of sleep, or overworking myself the 1st day, but whatever to case was, Wednesday, I was upset, agitated, angry, and just plain mean.

I'd read all about the pain of recovery. But for some reason, I thought I was exempt. It's funny...sometimes the truth has a way of catching up with you, and making you face reality. I tried not to sulk around, and feel bad about my situation, but every time, I lifted 8oz. of broth to drink my attitude became worse.

It took a lot for me to write this down..I don't want anyone feeling sorry for me, or discouraged from having this similar surgery..But like I said earlier, you have to accept reality. The truth is, I am uncomfortable, and probably not a very pleasant person to be around right now...But I know this is just temporary...As the Bible says, "THIS TOO SHALL PASS"

Tuesday, February 13, 2007

Time to say Thank You...

Well, today was the day....

Whenever people say “Don’t judge a book by the cover"...well today I know that's true... Renaissance Hospital maybe small in comparison to most, and I mean most, hospital that I've ever since. But God works miracles in everyone and everything. For the first nurse, Linda in preop...to Angela and Jaime in Recovery, to the wonderful nurse staff in ICU. I thank God for having them carefully watch over me. For every smile of reassurance, to every vote of confidence, they helped in ways that I can even express.

I would like to thank all my friends and family who called, and or prayed for me today. The Bible says, “The prayers of the righteous availeth much", and God showed himself faithful, mighty, and true. I praise God today that he hears and answers prayers.

Finally, I must thank my Grandparents. As I stated before I have the best Grandparents in the world, and I am truly blessed to even know them. When I think back over my life, there's not a moment that is not touched, or inspired by them. When discussion of the Lap Band surgery first began, I remember the only comment from my Grandmother was "Just tell me when and where, and I'll be there." And they both are true to their word. This morning when we left the house at 5:14am my Grandparents support never shifted, in fact it was made stronger.

Yesterday, I told you how much my Mother has meant. Today was time to show gratitude for my grandparents...True examples of God's love, a love that never fails.

Monday, February 12, 2007

Tomorrow is the beginning of a new chapter..

Tomorrow.....Sometimes we take tomorrow for granted. Not really appreciating that we are not promised it.

As I began to prepare for my surgery, I tried to stay in constant prayer. I tried to keep reminding myself that all things work together for the good of those who love the Lord. I tried listening the gospel radio station, but nothing really calmed my spirit.

Perhaps that's because the day started so crazy. It began with the discovery that my brand new laptop refused to work. Talk about stressed!!! Then struggling with customer support to explain, I didn't break it and it was their job to fix... When it comes to things I pay good money for, I require good service. But anyway, after three hours of transferring and listening to the mind-blogging on-hold music, my computer was fixed. I thought after that I would gain some sense of relieve. But that relieve never came....

All I could then think about was that three hours of my precious day were gone, and I still had to wash, pack, clean my house and car, go to Walmart, and get to my grandparents house before dark, and it was already 4:00.

It wasn't until I finally arrived at my grandparents house at 9:30pm and opened a card from my mother that I felt calm.

The Maya Angelou card beautifully stated " While everything around you is changing, you are also changing. Trust your new self to adapt in all the things you do. Remember, all that you are experiencing has been to prepare you to live in confidence, to fill the space only you can fill. You will shine through this time."

I thank God everyday for my mother, but no more than I did right at that moment. I believe with all my heart that God places people, and situations around you to encourage, strengthen, and sustain you.

So Mom, while your reading this in the morning, please know that I praise God for the love and support that only a Mother can give.

Sunday, February 11, 2007

Welcome

My name is Ashley, and I grew up in Chicago as an only child, by two loving parents, and the best grandparents in the world. I was encouraged to try to accomplish every goal I could set for myself. Every time I think about the love and encouragement of my family, I am deeply humbled, and eternally grateful.

With all my successes, there has always been a challenge I have yet to overcome. That challenge is my weight.

For as long as I can remember I have been overweight. No matter how many diets, or exercise plans, I've tried the worse my eating became. As I got older, I turned to food for comfort. Whenever I was upset, angry, or lonely, I would turn to food. In fact, while recently taking a walk down memory lane, everyone of my memories revolved around food.

In 2003, I was diagnosed with PCOS, and pre-diabetes. I was told that both were a result of all the excess weight I was carrying. Almost immediately, I tried to change my eating habits, but before long I was right back to my old habits.

After doing much praying and thinking, I trust that God has lead me to Dr. Marvin's and OSS-Houston. I pray that by taking this step, I am on a healthy path.

This is my journey to a new life......and new choices..