My Life before and after the Lap Band and Sleeve Surgery

Weigh In Wednesday - April 29, 2015

2015-04-30T10:58:00.002-07:00

Hello everyone! Today is the four-month anniversary of my sleeve surgery. Prior to surgery, I was on a liquid food diet and had lost 20 pounds. I have now lost a total of 33 pounds post-surgery and 53 total overall and am really happy. I am really proud of my progress to date. Although I have had a few upsets, I have continually lost weight.

I started exercising by walking around my apartment complex twice, which was exactly one mile. During my initial walks, I was out of breath and my feet hurt. I couldn't wait to get back inside my home. However, I continued to go out. Eventually, I became bored with walking around my complex, so I started to walk up the street. Before I knew it, I was walking three miles, then four and five. Now I walk up to six miles! Yes, I'm exhausted and my feet still hurt when I am done, but I couldn't be more proud of my accomplishments. Prior to surgery, I would have never gone out walking , much less six miles of it. Here is a link to today's walk which included my BFF Andi: http://www.mapmywalk.com/workout/965073879

Yesterday, I saw one of my neighbors out walking. I was so happy for this neighbor because prior to that when I saw her, she was sitting down by the office chatting with the neighbors. I am proud that she is walking or following my example after seeing me go out.

Today, I weighed myself, and I'm at 209.8 pounds. My family tells me that if I get down to 200 pounds, we will celebrate, so I chose my celebration of choice. I told my family I wanted to hike to Paradise Falls in Thousand Oaks, CA. This is a one-mile hike, and although it sounds simple, I hope it will have an incline and give us a good workout.

As for my diet, I rarely have liquid meals anymore, but when I'm busy, I will have one to make sure I stay healthy. The drink I buy is from Costco and has 30 grams of protein. When I do eat, I forget that I'm post-surgery and tend to eat either too fast or too much, and 99% of the time, I throw up my food. This happened today. I had a hot dog, but I only ate half of it before some of it came back up.

I sometimes cheat and have candy, because I often get a sour stomach. I have found that the Sees peppermint chocolates are the only thing that calms my stomach. Of course, I don't stop at just one candy, and the scale shows my cheating ways.

I've gone down a couple pant sizes, and since I don't have any plans to return to my old weight, I've decided to either sell or give away the clothes that no longer fit me. When I weighed almost 300 pounds, I wore a size 26 pant. Now, I wear a size 18.

Last week, I attended a support group sponsored by my doctor. I found this very comforting; it was good to hear other people’s stories. After the session, one of the people in the group found me on Facebook and we starting communicating. She is just starting on her weight-loss journey and has questions that I am more than happy to answer.

I wish you and yours all the best. If you want to walk and need a partner or just want to discuss the strategies that are working for me, please look me up. I'm more than happy to share.

Weigh In Wednesday - February 18, 2015

2015-02-19T06:25:00.001-08:00

My last blog entry (two weeks ago) indicated that I was going to see my primary doctor for a follow-up after my emergency room visit. I recounted what happened to him and he told me that I would just need to stay on liquids a bit longer. If you recall, I mentioned that my post-surgery diet allowed me to have eggs and tuna at this point. Therefore, I will continue to drink my protein drink and slowly eat very soft foods. I was pleasantly surprised to not have to continue more tests and that it was all just a simple answer.

Also, because I was out sick for two weeks, I didn't exercise or walk at all during that time. I have slowly gotten back into it, however, I'm trying to get back into the two-mile range again which is where I left off. On Feb. 9^th, my goals were to walk the two miles and to reach the Camarillo post office. I did both! I have since completed the two miles on a regular basis. Some days it is harder than on other days, but I still get it done.

My new friend, Dave, told me today that he wants to join me on my walks. He says he can only go around twice which is fine with me. I'm just glad he was the one who suggested this on his own after seeing me walk every day.

On the down side, I tried to eat some vermicelli noodles in tomato sauce (fideo) and again, as if I had not learned from my own words, I ate too fast and too much and it all came back out again. I wish I had a magic tool to help me remember. I know I'm supposed to be on liquids, but still . . .

During the two weeks that I was sick, I had lost so much weight that now that I'm better, I am noticing a two- or three-pound gain up one day and down the next. Today, however, I am down to 220.2; I, therefore, lost a whopping ONE pound! Oh well, so long as I'm moving down, I'm happy.

As some if you know, pre-surgery, I was diagnosed with sleep apnea. This is a bad situation for a person like me who drives a lot. I can fall asleep at the wheel. The good news is that with the weight loss to date, I was able to put away the C-PAP machine as I am now getting a full night’s rest without it.

Pants size . . . I am now down to a size 18 pants. I recently went through my closet and posted for sale all the big sizes. I had gone all the way up to a size 24!!!

Men . . . On the up side, I've been getting the attention of men that almost never happened before . . . The other day at the bank, a man did a double take and took the time to say hello. I can only say it felt good. Big cheesy smile. If you are my Facebook friend, you also know that Dave has asked me out for lunch or dinner. Of course, he has to wait until I can eat a regular meal. In the meantime, he will join me on my walks.

Weigh In Wednesday - February 4, 2015

2015-02-04T22:06:00.000-08:00

In this day and age, there is a You Tube video for everything. Here is one from the Sleeve Surgery I had: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EMlxhICaG0s

It's been two weeks since I last posted. The reason is that I picked up a cold, and to top that off, I also went to Urgent Care twice and to the Emergency Room once. At the latter, I was diagnosed with ileus http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ileus. Basically, it was the reason I lost all desire to eat. My intestines had fallen asleep! The doctor gave me an injection, and I also got a prescription filled for the same drug. Unfortunately, the drug caused me to become really dizzy, and the room was spinning in different directions. I stopped taking the medication and felt better. I can eat, but I am limited to mostly smoothies. If I try to eat, it comes right back. Tomorrow, I have an appointment with my primary care physician and, lucky me, will have to review all the details again for him.

On an up note, being unable to eat, I also lost a few pounds. Today, I weighed myself and I'm at 221.2. This means that since I started seeing Dr. Sanchez, I am down by 38.8 pounds. Since I lost 20 pounds before surgery, I have really lost 18 pounds post-surgery.

I weighed 298 lbs in this pic.
Taken 06/06/2012.

I also wanted to post some full body pics, so if I get a chance, I'll do that so you can compare. I'll start with a pic from when I weighed 298, then a pic after the lap band, and, of course, a pic now.

When I hiked up to
Tarantula Hill in Thousand Oaks.
09/09/2012.

This was taken today
02/05/2015.

Finally, my walking has gone from one mile to two miles. It was zero for the two weeks of illness and is back to 1.5 miles today. I'm happy to report that I had no cough during my walk, but I was winded and had to stop a couple of times. The good part is that I chose the beach for today's walk, and it was as beautiful as ever!

Here's the walk data from my walk today: http://www.mapmywalk.com/workout/865405311

Have a great week everyone!

QUOTE: Sometimes you make choices in life and sometimes choices make you...

I also found another video of the largest woman in the world. This one however is much longer in length, but in my opinion worth watching. This will surely open your eyes to the world of obesity. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ik-RYOy7nME

Weigh In Wednesday - Jan. 21, 2015

2015-01-21T09:04:00.000-08:00

Walking and more walking. If there’s one thing I’m committed to, it’s walking for at least 30 minutes per day. I try to change my route to break the boredom. Sometimes, my feet hurt, and at other times, at the end of my walk, my back hurts. Otherwise, I really enjoy the fresh air and the wonderful feeling afterwards. I also use the MapMyWalk APP, and it works wonders. It counts my steps, tells me my time and speed, and shows a picture of my route. This allows me to share this information on my Facebook page for weight loss, as well as with another group that I joined at the beginning of the year.

January 12 – Today, I am two weeks post-surgery. As such, I was allowed to add tuna, egg, cottage cheese, canned fruit, and mashed or blended vegetables to my menu. I was really happy as I was not only craving certain foods but I also felt the desire to chew. I chose tuna today. I am allowed 1/3 – 1/4 of a cup. I prepared it with olive oil mayo from Whole Foods. It contains only 35 calories per serving, and it tastes fantastic. I also added pickles and onions (chopped super fine).

The tuna was fantastic, however, after eating two small spoonsful, I went running to the bathroom. Sadly, I had to throw up. I soon realized that I was supposed to eat my food slowly . . . no, very slowly, over 30 minutes! This issue of eating too fast has arisen on other days since this because I just don't seem to get it. Throwing up is, however, a horrific experience and not something I like doing. I therefore try to remember.

January 13 – This morning, I had one scrambled egg. The instructions were to make it soft, so I added a little bit of milk to the mixture. It took me 45 minutes to eat the meal, but it was incident free.

January 14 – Today, I visited my rheumatoid arthritis doctor (Dr. Mory). When she asked about my surgery, I offered to show her my surgery marks/scabs. She looked at the one that once held the drain and was slightly concerned as puss was still coming out of the wound. She versed me on what to look for and when to go back to the doctor should any of those things show up. I am happy to report that, as of today, the wound is closing up and there's just a pencil-sized hole left.

I also asked Dr. Mory about my RA. Every time I go see her, which is every three months, she doesn't see any RA swelling or hot spots in the areas that should have these. Like a dummy, I asked her if I still had the RA. She smiled and answered, “Yes, this is a lifelong event.” I will always have it! However, she did tell me that the meds (Enbrel and Methotrextate) will keep my illness at bay.

Dr. Mory is a fantastic doctor. I have been seeing her for several years now. She has a big heart and has helped me out of some serious predicaments, including some severe knee pain—and all this when other doctors refused to do anything about them.

I continue to conduct my mystery shopping assignments, which include lots of restaurants and burger places. The only difference is that I don't eat any of the food I order; I bring it home and hand it over to my twin sons, who are more than happy to have it. :)

When I reached my lowest from the Lap Band surgery, I was 229 pounds. Today, I weighed myself, and I am at 229.2 pounds. I'm happy with the results and look forward to reaching my goal of 150 soon. Also, because my iPhone got wet, this last picture from yesterday is what I can post until I get it fixed. Next week, I reach the one-month anniversary of my surgery. Along with the blog, I will also post a full body picture. Oh dear! ;)

Yesterday, my BFF, Andi Flores, stopped by with a gift for me. Inside the bag, was a Veggetti, a beautiful card, and a diary in which to write down my thoughts. The diary was titled "We were born to succeed, not to fail." The gift was totally unexpected but welcomed, none the less. Andi has been a constant in my life throughout the years. She was present at my daughter's wedding, and when I couldn't bring myself to say a few words, Andi stepped up to the plate and did it for me. Andi was also around at my lowest time, the passing of my son-in-law. Andi is a part-time photographer, and she offered to take pictures at the Celebration of Life. She did this without being asked, and I'll always remember her generosity and the time she sacrificed. Andi, I love you girl!

Weigh In Wednesday - Jan. 14, 2015

2015-01-14T08:30:00.001-08:00

January 8: Today I went to see my weight-loss surgeon, Dr. Sanchez. It was my post-op appointment to see how I was doing and to remove the drain. Boy, was I super-happy to have that thing off! Dr. Sanchez told me that having it removed would also remove the pain. I instantly felt better, but upon arriving home, I still took more pain meds just to deal with the residual effects of it all.

Another thing I found was that I was supposed to have a bowel movement by this time. Therefore, the doctor suggested I take some stool softener pills, drink more water, and walk around a lot more. I didn’t do the walking because I was so darn cold. Although water is my drink of choice—after coffee, of course—I had a hard time drinking it. I couldn’t drink coffee, according to the rules, and the water that I normally gulp down had to be drunk in a small capful. Boy, was that frustrating, and I just didn’t do it. I’m doing much better with water consumption today.

I mentioned the drain leaking in an earlier post. This of course will go away with its removal and healing.

Finally, I have this small bump on my left wrist or just above my wrist. I asked the RN if it was a bruised vein from the nurses’ trying to find a vein. She confirmed that, calling it a hematoma (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hematoma).

The doctor told me that my weight loss is good for post-surgery, but that it would have been more had I taken more water. My follow-up appointment is in 30 days, with his nurse practitioner. I see the doctor and NP every other visit.

January 9: 1,250 steps is what it took for me to walk around my apartment complex. All I can say is, That was exhausting! The following link will lead you to my other walking events: http://www.mapmywalk.com/my_home/#user_dashboard

Regarding my weight loss, I discovered I was reading my scale incorrectly. Normally, a person gets on the scale and reads it. This scale, however, has options for other family members to record their weight. Therefore, I have to wait until the blue light shows up and then take a picture. Because of this, my previous weight measurements were wrong. However, the picture is correct.

Have a great week!

Weigh In Wednesday - Jan. 7, 2015

2015-01-08T15:36:00.001-08:00

I would like to start this post by thanking some very important people in my life. Without stating their last names, I am sure they will know to whom I am referring. These are the people who wrote to me with offers of help after my surgery. Although I did not take them up on it, I still consider their thoughtfulness a blessing.

- Without a doubt, my children have been the most helpful. Thank you, Lupe and Daniel! Rebekah had to return home, so she wasn’t available to do much.

- Andi (Andrea). Your honest and heartfelt offers were truly a blessing. I was able to feel your honesty in each of them.

- Stefanie, my Bella. You are not only my sushi lunch friend; you also called and sent texts to check up on me.

- Angelica. Amongst all the things that keep her busy and with tax season coming up, she still found time to say hey.

- Naomi. Thank you for your text. The fact that you sent a text and offered to help was great just the same!

- Mario, “my brother from another mother.” Thank you for checking up on me.

- Maribel. Thank you for the FB private message. I appreciated your encouragement.

- Lucy, my rediscovered friend. Thank you for the text message and for checking up on me.

- Constantino. Thank you for the FB message.

- Lupe, my old neighborhood friend. Thank you for the FB message.

- Thomas, from the old Ventura Group. Thank you for the FB message and the encouragement.

- Mickie. Your prayers and hello were much appreciated.

- Maria (Lupe). Thank you for your thoughts and prayers.

- Cande. You called when I was post-surgery for two hours. That was okay. Even though I couldn’t answer your call, I appreciated the thought and the voicemail message.

- Silencio, my new FB friend. Thank you for the prayers and encouragement. Si, Se Puede!

- Aldo. Thank you for thinking of me on my surgery date. Your FB message was cool!

- Leonard. Thank you for the jokes and the text checking up on me. I really appreciated it!

- Eliseo. Gracias por la llamada para saber como estaba.

- Dan & Elisa. Thanks for the home visit and the offer to pay for my mani/pedi.

- Wowi (my momma). Gracias por la vista y por el dinero que me diste para Navidad!

- Ana. Thank you for the private FB message checking up on me.

POST-OPERATIVE PAIN

Surgery was on the 29^th, and I came home on the 30^th. I didn’t realize it, but I was still flying high on the pain meds that were given to me, and I felt like Superwoman. By Friday the 2^nd, I had scheduled a shoe shop in Newbury Park. I was aware of the meds, so being as my son Daniel had the day off, I had him drive me around. It wasn’t easy, but we did it.

On Saturday the 3^rd, I went to Ventura to have my roots colored and hair curled. Who does that? I still had my post surgery drain on and had to hide it from the students. It was all worth it, however, because the ladies did a fantastic job on my hair.

On Sunday the 4^th, I had four restaurant shop assignments (two breakfasts and two dinners) and two grocery store assignments. By this time, I was feeling invincible and drove myself. Of course, I was off the liquid pain meds by then, so I was not a risk to other drivers.

Monday the 5^th had me back in the doctor’s office visiting his RN. My drain incision had been leaking all this time. By email, she had been informing me what to do and how to care for it; however, by the time Monday rolled around, I had to see her. Also, by that time, I was in severe pain again. There must be a reason why they tell you to sit and relax. Well, I found out the hard way. After I saw the RN and, yes, conducted one more shopping assignmnet on my calendar, I went home, took some pain medicine, and fell asleep!

It is now Wednesday the 7^th. My boys have come to visit, which is very nice, but I am feeling a bit of cabin fever. Therefore, I took a load of wash and said hello to a couple of the seniors sitting around my apartment complex. I haven’t told any of the “regulars” that I talk to about my surgery, so, of course, they wonder and ask how I’m doing. I just tell them I’m tired, which is true, of course.

WEIGH IN WEDNESDAY

I have decided to post a scale picture of what I weigh each Wednesday. Pre-surgery, I was 260 lbs. In order to get approval for surgery, I needed to lose 10 lbs., being at 250 lbs. or less. The liquid diet allowed me to lose more weight, and I was at 239.6 lbs. on the day of my surgery. Today, I am 227.8 lbs., a whopping 32 lbs. total or 11.8 lbs. post-surgery! I thank you in advance for your congratulations!

Last but not least, I would like to thank the following people who wrote on my hospital posts by either liking them or by making a comment:

Karen A; Juanita F; Leonard A; Timothy B; Cecilia A; Paula S; Carrie B; Linda R; Ruben C; Juanita C; Aldo C; Jeannette C; Jose C; Minna C; Lupe A; Angie C; Sally B; Adele S; Rita G; Ingrid W; Exie D; Betty E; Ojay F; Andrea F; Leticia F; Diana R; Dianne C; Veronica F; Melba F; Constantino G; Dagoberto F; Maryzol G; Sanjuana G; Carmen G; Ramiro G; Tom H; Maria R; Janice H; Maria I; Arlene J; AlexSandra E; Juanita L; Bertha L; Judy M; Vilma L; Luz L; Patty M; Malu M; Patsy M; Maribel M; Stella M; Mickie M; Mario M; Kennia M; David M; Nancy M; Joe M; Kay H; Grace R; Janine M; Cindy Ojeda; Jesus O; Thomas O; Lonny P; Mary O; Jen P; Linda H; Silencio P; Katrina P; Carmen R; Jorge R; Ana S; Karen R; Patricia R; Susie R; Mary Ellen R; Estella T; JoAnn Foster; Berdy S; Lisa W; Maria Lupe V; Joann T; Rosie T; Rami M; Dora V; Lucy V; Michelle W; Beth W; Jeff W; Kathy W; Connie C; Jay and Gina Z.

Sleeve Surgery - Mission Accomplished!

2015-01-04T09:14:00.000-08:00

My last post was nine months ago when I mentioned that I visited Dr. Sanchez for possible sleeve surgery. What happened between then and now goes as follows:

- I weighed 260 pounds on this visit (this was up from 229).

- I visited the psychiatrist for surgery clearance (Dr. Bale).

- I visited the weight doctor for medical clearance (Dr. Rory).

- I visited the nutritionist (two different ones, Ann and Barbara) for eating advice and counseling.

After all of this, I still gained weight. It got so bad that the nurse practitioner at Dr. Sanchez's office told me that if I didn't start to take this seriously, she would postpone my surgery. And sure enough she did! It had been scheduled for August 25. I went to my next appointment, this time with Dr. Sanchez, and he told me that if I could lose 10 pounds in two weeks, he would reinstate the surgery for a new date. I told him to give me three weeks. When I returned, I had lost only nine pounds. His nurse told me to go back home and try again. When I returned a week later, I had the 10 pounds off and the surgery was scheduled.

**Here's my weight on 12/17/2014**

Next, the doctor's RN sent me the surgery paperwork, which included more blood work and an EKG. She also put me on an all-liquid diet for the two weeks prior to surgery. Because of the liquid diet, I lost a further 20 pounds. You would have thought I could cancel the surgery and just continue with the liquids, but I know—and as you have read—I am not capable of eating correctly on my own.

**Here's my weight on 1/2/2015 **

The surgery was scheduled for 7:00 a.m., but I wasn't wheeled in until 9:30 a.m. When I came out, I was in a fog from all the meds. I stayed a night, and the next afternoon, I went home. Besides my children who stopped in for a brief moment, I had no visitors, which was a little sad for me. I did, however, get several messages with offers of help. During my hospital time, the nurses kept coming in for the mandatory blood pressure checks. At one point, my pressure had gone alarmingly low, and they came in every 30 minutes until I wasn't a risk anymore. The hospital was extremely cold, and I kept covering myself completely and asked for several blankets. Even the staff complained about the temperature.

Here's a pic of the drain.
The color has become a light orange as expected.

Today, I am six days post-surgery. I still have the drain on my body, and that will be removed on the eighth when I visit Dr. Sanchez again. Today I weighed myself again, and I am down to 236.2.

Back on the wagon!

2014-03-27T08:47:00.002-07:00

Hello my family and friends! It's been about two years since I last posted on this page. My life has been taken over by lots of excuses and too much time on Facebook and other social media. I have also gone through lots of medical issues. The first of course was the back pain I suffered after a Zumba class, that was followed by toe and knee surgery. I never exercise anymore and all attempts to take a swimming class were put on the back burner.

Yesterday, however, I went to my first appointment with Dr. Sanchez. Dr. Sanchez is the medical director at Ventura County Medical Center for Bariatrics. This new location at the hospital was created because the only other option was Dr. Billy. Unfortunately, it was too expensive for me to see Dr. Billy, therefore, this was a welcome addition.

After Dr. Sanchez interviewed me, he suggested that he check my Lap Band and then added one ml of saline. Because I was in for surgery options, he recommend the gastric sleeve. This procedure is also conducted as minimally invasive. I will still have to go through all of the pre-surgery procedures including seeing the psychologist, the nutritionist and get all the lab work. Also, because I may be going through another knee surgery, I asked the doctor to wait until I was recovered from that.

Overall, I am happy that I'll be back on tract and I also hope that my knees will be good enough to go back to Zumba classes. I thank you in advance for your thoughts and prayers. ~~Marisela

Here is a link to the Wikipedia explanation of the Gastric Sleeve: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sleeve_gastrectomy

THE WAGON DOES EXIST AND I FELL OFF OF IT!

2012-11-24T16:30:00.000-08:00

I think it was about a year ago that I was actively participating in Zumba classes and ended up injuring my back. I promptly went to the chiropractor and he successfully treated me. After that series of treatments ended, I should have returned to Zumba but didn't. I not only let my time paid lapse, but I also sold off the three months that I had coming to me.

Every now and again, I would take a small walk, and on Grandparents Day in September, I gathered my flock and asked them to join me at Tarantula Hill in Thousand Oaks. That day was the last time I did any exercise at all.

Within this one-year sabbatical, I found myself dirt poor. This came from conducting mystery shops that required me to pay for items ahead of time before being reimbursed two to sometimes three months later. I also experienced a disappointing relationship, and the last straw was when my mom was hospitalized after yet another stroke. I strongly feel that all of these things caused me stress, but I didn't realize it at the time. In dealing with it, I ate all the wrong things a lot of the time. At one point, however, I was doing so well that my primary doctor took me off of one of my blood pressure medications. Sadly, a few months later, I was back on it.

In the one year that has flown by, I have noticed the unwavering support from friends who not only support me but also keep me in check with the food items I post on Facebook. I have also noticed my flagging enthusiasm and lack of goal setting and keeping.

So what has made me come back after such a long absence? I started a new temporary assignment working at Wellpoint. I also realized that working full time with a company that has strict attendance guidelines would not allow me to go see my lap band doctor in Marina Del Rey.

In the interview, the Wellpoint reps talked about how they liked their potlucks and asked whether that was something I would enjoy. I then came to the first day of class. Not only do they like their potlucks, but it was also mentioned that between our sit-down job and all this food around us, people who work there gain an average of 40 pounds. Believe it or not, in the two short weeks I have been in class, the temporary agency has brought in two boxes of donuts (and that was the first day!), we have had two potlucks, and our future supervisors brought pizza for the department the Wednesday before Thanksgiving.

If this is the way my new assignment will be, I really have to get my priorities back in check. I not only have participated in the potlucks by bringing a dish, but I also have participated by eating…and eating…and eating.

Yesterday, I decided to look into Zumba classes again. This time, however, I will find something closer to home here in Thousand Oaks. I emailed one of the instructors and she wrote back saying that she will start two new classes at the Goebel Senior Center this coming January.

I am really excited to start up again. I hope that these classes will encourage me to watch what I eat, and, of course, get back into shape.

Weight and Measurements Chart
Immediate Goal: 195
Ultimate Goal: 150

Date	Weight	+ / -	Bust	Waist	Hips	Thigh	BMI
Pre-Surgery	295		53	48	59	25
6/1/2011	290	5	53	48	59	--	49.9
6/15/2011	277	13	52	48.5	61.5	--	47.5
7/21/2011	268.5	8.5	51	46	58.5	24.5	46.1
9/1/2011	257.5	11	49	46	56	25	44.2
10/13/2011	254	3.5	47.5	45	53	23	43.6
11/22/2011	242.3	11.7	48	44	52	23.5	41.6
1/11/2012	238.3	4	48	43	51	24	40.9
2/23/2012	233.5	4.8	46.5	43	50	24	40.1
4/5/2012	229.9	3.6	46.5	42	48.5	24.5	39.4
5/17/2012	233	-3.1	47	41	49	25	40
6/28/2012	233.3	-0.3					40
7/26/2012	237	-3.7					40.7
9/11/2012	232.4	4.6					39.9
11/2/2012	231.9	0.5					39.8
Total Pounds:	62.6		6	7	10	0
Total Inches:	23

On A Sad Note...

2012-05-22T08:14:00.001-07:00

As my readers know, I always post my latest weight loss almost from the instant I leave the doctor’s office. My most recent visit was Thursday, May 17th or FIVE days ago. The reason for this madness you ask? I GAINED FOUR pounds!!! Yes, I said it and it is true. Sadly, my loss of control continued through yet another doctor’s visit. This, even though I had all of you, my friends edging me on for better behavior and encouraging me with every positive word possible, the gain is true.

The RN who saw me didn't really scold me, however her words were just as piercing and I cried. I don't like admitting this on a public blog, however, all of you should know me as a true person and not stating this on my blog would make me a liar.

In the end, the RN suggested I make appointments with all the staff available to my disposal at the Clinic. This would include the Nutritionist, and most importantly the Psychologist. The RN and I both think that this emotional eating needs to be addressed. She feels I didn't go through all of this just to fail now. The RN also asked if I was already happy with the weight I have lost to date. I answered a half yes; however, that being said, even though I am happy, gaining four pounds is not the way to show it.

Yesterday, one of my family members made a comment on my weight loss progress and when I admitted the gain, I told them I hadn't blogged about it. One of my family insisted that blogging about it would be part of the healing process and it is true. I am already feeling better.

Today, I will be driving to Marina del Rey for my appointment with the psychologist. Hopefully, we will get to the bottom of this issue and I'll get back on track. Somehow however, it won’t take just one visit…

On a good note... the RN refilled my Lap Band port. It feels a lot different than other visits in that I am full much faster than before. I am not sure what she did different, however, it is very noticeable to me. With this, I wish you all a blessed day. Enjoy its beauty!

	Weight and Measurements Chart
		Immediate Goal: 195
		Ultimate Goal: 150

Date	Weight	Bust	Waist	Hips	Thigh	BMI
Pre-Surgery	295	53	48	59	25
6/1/2011	290	53	48	59	--	49.9
6/15/2011	277	52	48.5	61.5	--	47.5
7/21/2011	268.5	51	46	58.5	24.5	46.1
9/1/2011	257.5	49	46	56	25	44.2
10/13/2011	254	47.5	45	53	23	43.6
11/22/2011	242.3	48	44	52	23.5	41.6
1/11/2012	238.3	48	43	51	24	40.9
2/23/2012	233.5	46.5	43	50	24	40.1
4/5/2012	229.9	46.5	42	48.5	24.5	39.4
5/17/2012	233	47	41	49	25	40
Difference from last visit to this visit	-3.1	-0.5	1	-0.5	-0.5
Total Pounds:	62	6	7	10	0
Total Inches:	23

You Are Kidding Me...

2012-05-01T21:26:00.000-07:00

Today, I have come to the conclusion that I have lost complete and total control... I am sad to report that my eating has gone over the top. Today for dinner I had three slices of pizza at a birthday party. If that wasn't enough, I had a piece of cake, ice cream and the candy toppings with that. I then had a candy bar after all of that. Yesterday, I had two donuts amongst all my other food intake.

I wish I knew what was going wrong, however, if I had to guess, I would say my eating is stress related. I recognize this when it is happening, however, I have no strength or sense to stop it. The worst of it all is I don't feel guilty, well not until today anyway and it was only after I finished eating the candy.

I am hoping that by writing this in my blog, it will be a restart of proper eating.

So bring on the scoldings, I deserve any words you send my way... Hopefully, those will cause me to behave, hopefully!

10 Month Check Up

2012-04-06T09:26:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I went in to see my Lap Band doctor, Dr. Korman at L.A. Bariatrics. As it turns out, he wasn't in and I was seen by his registered nurse Bridgette. Bridgette is such a great person. Her personality is so sweet and I like visiting with her just as much as I do with Dr. Korman.

Sadly, I only lost 3.6 pounds. I know a lot of you think that is a lot, however, to me, it is almost nothing. I look forward to the visits when I reported a 12 pound loss. On the upside, I lost another inch on my waist and an inch and a half on my hips.

I believe that part of my problem this time (there is always an excuse…) is that I gave up drinking coffee for Lent. In its place, I started drinking hot chocolate. I knew I was doing wrong, but kept doing it anyway. Also, I haven’t been to Zumba or done any exercise other than a brief walk here and there. I seriously have to get back on this subject and soon!

Three weeks ago, I visited my primary doctor, Dr. Jorgensen. He was proud of my weight loss thus far and asked what my goal was. When I told him I wanted to weigh 150, he told me that might be too much. He also said that losing that much would leave me with a lot of loose skin. I therefore asked how much the corrective procedure would cost. I was shocked, so I "think" he said $6,000 per area. I guess I better start saving now… ha, ha.

That being said, I need a new goal. Please respond with some helpful suggestions as to what you think my goal should be. I am posting the pictures from the doctor's office yesterday. This should give you something to look at when you make your suggestions. Also, if you are one of my "anonymous" followers and decide not to post your name, please send me a private email so I know who you are.

April 5, 2012

June 2011

and here is a cute cartoon I found... Enjoy!

this is the data from stepping on the scale.

AND FINALLY MY STATS:

	Weight and Measurements Chart
		Immediate Goal: 195
		Ultimate Goal: 150

Date	Weight	Bust	Waist	Hips	Thigh	BMI
Pre-Surgery	295	53	48	59	25
6/1/2011	290	53	48	59	--	49.9
6/15/2011	277	52	48.5	61.5	--	47.5
7/21/2011	268.5	51	46	58.5	24.5	46.1
9/1/2011	257.5	49	46	56	25	44.2
10/13/2011	254	47.5	45	53	23	43.6
11/22/2011	242.3	48	44	52	23.5	41.6
1/11/2012	238.3	48	43	51	24	40.9
2/23/2012	233.5	46.5	43	50	24	40.1
4/5/2012	229.9	46.5	42	48.5	24.5	39.4
Difference from last visit to this visit	3.6	0	1	1.5	-0.5
Total Pounds:	65.1	6.5	6	10.5	0.5
Total Inches:	23.5

A New Way of Eating...???

2012-03-01T21:45:00.000-08:00

My previous post spoke of the scolding I got by my doctors RN about my eating habits. I had the following food the day after my appointment:

BREAKFAST - Protein Shake
LUNCH - Steak and Chicken kabobs and salad from Daphne's (one of my favorite places)
DINNER - El Pollo Loco - 2 piece thigh dinner with salad (my other hang out)

So this may be the recommended eating plan, however, it was way too much food for me! In my pre-surgery days, I could have ate all of that and more. Today, forget it! I could have easily stopped at lunch and called it a day.

The day after the one mentioned, I had a protein shake for breakfast, then Pollo Loco for lunch at about 3pm. It was great and filling. I had no cravings for anything other than hot tea in the evening. Can't I just continue to do this? I like it so much better and I am losing weight. Heck, they are lucky I am eating breakfast! Well a shake that is...

On another subject, I recently bought a pair of size 20 pants. I started this adventure wearing size 24 pants! Here is my most recent picture.

Eight Month Weigh-In and Check Up

2012-02-23T21:40:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I know I should be and can be doing better, however, I'll take what results I did get for now. I lost an additional 4.8 pounds and 2.5 inches.

As you remember from previous posts, these last six weeks included back spasm problems. This meant no Zumba classes. In January I also started or restated my part-time inspections again. This means that I am traveling to Los Angeles on a daily basis. My Zumba gym is in Oxnard. My solution to that problem is to find a Zumba gym in the Thousand Oaks area. I will work on that soon.

Today's visit included a confession and a scolding by the nurse. They always ask how I am doing and I of course confess to eating too much. I tell them that after I have coffee in the morning, my next meal at about noon is something large and that covers me for the rest of the day. This is unacceptable to my doctors staff. They insist that I eat three meals a day, no exceptions. The nurse suggested a protein and a vegetable or a protein and a fruit. If I am still hungry in between, I can always have more protein. I always promise that I will behave, but never do. I just don't like breakfast or should I say I don't like eating at the breakfast hour... The nurse also reminded me that I didn't go through this surgery for nothing.

Next, the nurse refilled the port and that went smoothly.

Here are the latest numbers for your reading pleasure:

	Weight and Measurements Chart
		Immediate Goal: 195
		Ultimate Goal: 150

Date	Weight	Bust	Waist	Hips	Thigh	BMI
Pre-Surgery	295	53	48	59	25
6/1/2011	290	53	48	59	--	49.9
6/15/2011	277	52	48.5	61.5	--	47.5
7/21/2011	268.5	51	46	58.5	24.5	46.1
9/1/2011	257.5	49	46	56	25	44.2
10/13/2011	254	47.5	45	53	23	43.6
11/22/2011	242.3	48	44	52	23.5	41.6
1/11/2012	238.3	48	43	51	24	40.9
2/23/2012	233.5	46.5	43	50	24	40.1
Difference from last visit to this visit	4.8	1.5	0	1	0
Total Pounds:	61.5	6.5	5	9	1
Total Inches:	21.5

Tarantula Hill

2012-02-22T05:05:00.000-08:00

One of my pre-surgery goals is to hike the Santa Monica Mountains. I decided that taking baby steps would be suitable in this case. I had to stop several times, but I conquered it! This hill basically shoots straight up in a circular path. Once on top, you reach a chain link fence stopping people from accessing an underground water well. The view from the top is amazing! In one direction I was able to see the Santa Monica Mountains. Of course the 101 Freeway and Lynn Road were easily seen and busy with traffic.

This was an awesome experience and hope to duplicate it soon. By the way, the sore muscles go away in three days.

My next goal; Wildwood Regional Park.

So this is Christmas...

2012-01-14T09:03:00.000-08:00

ah yes, Thanksgiving and Christmas arrived and thankfully left! I ate so much that I actually gained FIVE pounds eating too many chocolates and tamales. Thankfully, by the time I made it to my seven month checkup, I had lost those five pounds and an additional four. Whew!

I did however, discover one thing about my treatment. If I know in advance that something like these holidays or special events are coming up when I am at my doctor's office, I should NOT let him convince me that I should not get my port refilled.

I honestly believe that this is what caused my downfall. On my visit of November 22nd, I had lost 12 pounds. My doctor who read those results felt that I was doing really good and that we could fore-go refilling my port. What a big mistake that was. I was now on double threat status. Nothing to give me the "full" feeling and the holidays.

Of course this is all my fault and not the doctors, however, I am just saying what could have been. Lesson learned and we will move on forward.

On another topic, I have not attended my Zumba classes in over two months as well. I think I overdid my exercises and threw out my back. Fortunately, it was only muscle spams and a chiropractor is slowly bringing me back to health.

Otherwise, I hope that your holidays were great and that your New Years Resolutions are on track.

With Love,
Marisela

	Weight and Measurements Chart
		Immediate Goal: 195
		Ultimate Goal: 150

Date	Weight	Bust	Waist	Hips	Thigh	BMI
Pre-Surgery	295	53	48	59	25
6/1/2011	290	53	48	59	--	49.9
6/15/2011	277	52	48.5	61.5	--	47.5
7/21/2011	268.5	51	46	58.5	24.5	46.1
9/1/2011	257.5	49	46	56	25	44.2
10/13/2011	254	47.5	45	53	23	43.6
11/22/2011	242.3	48	44	52	23.5	41.6
1/11/2012	238.3	48	43	51	24	40.9
Totals:	56.7	5	5	8	1

Before and Now Pics...

2011-12-01T16:28:00.000-08:00

June 2011

December 2011

Five Month Weigh-In and Check Up

2011-11-30T21:44:00.000-08:00

First and foremost, I must apologize for updating you so late. My actual appointment was on November 22nd. I updated Facebook and completely forgot about this Blog after that.

On this day, I weighed in at 242.3 pounds. Therefore, I have lost a total of 53 pounds! I am extremely happy with the results. Also, from my last visit to this visit, a total of six weeks, I lost 12 pounds.

One of the questions I asked my doctor today was about the size of my calves. I wanted to know why I lose weight and inches all around my body, however, my calves stay the same size. Dr. Korman was not able to pinpoint why, however, he says I will lose weight the way I do and nothing he can recommend other than what I am doing already will change it.

We also spoke of the drugs/medications I am on. My primary doctor has eliminated Metoprolol which is one of the two medications I was taking for high blood pressure. I hope to be off the other one soon. Today's blood pressure reading was 112/80. Great being as in late 2007 it was up to 198/xx.

My rheumatologist lowered the Methotrexate from six tablets to four tablets. This is just a trial elimination because we don't know if that will work or not. Based on my right hand joint, I think it will have to go back up... :(

Before I left the doctor's office, I asked the nurse if I could get a copy of my "before" picture to share on this blog. Here they are:

As soon as I can get someone to take a "now" picture of me, I'll post those as well.

Finally, here are my measurements. I've lost 17.5 inches all around.

	Weight and Measurements Chart
		Immediate Goal: 195
		Ultimate Goal: 150

Date	Weight	Bust	Waist	Hips	Thigh	BMI
Pre-Surgery	295	53	48	59	25
6/1/2011	290	53	48	59	--	49.9
6/15/2011	277	52	48.5	61.5	--	47.5
7/21/2011	268.5	51	46	58.5	24.5	46.1
9/1/2011	257.5	49	46	56	25	44.2
10/13/2011	254	47.5	45	53	23	43.6
10/27/2011	248.8	Dr. Mory's Office Scale
11/22/2011	242.3	48	44	52	23.5	41.6
12/16/2011		Dr. Jorgensen's Office Scale
12/29/2011		Dr. Mory's Office Scale
1/5/2012
Totals:	52.7	5	4	7	1.5

Zumba Baby!

2011-11-14T21:46:00.001-08:00

As a lot of you know and from previous Blog posts, I am attending Zumba classes. Zumba is an aerobics type class which uses Latin music to inspire the students into fitness.
I go every day and sometimes I take two classes a day.

Recently, however, I have decided to kick up the Zumba a notch. I received some weights for my birthday and tonight I took the wrist weights and used them through out the class.

It felt good to use them, however, I didn't feel any different. I guess I was expecting some pain, but no, nothing. The instructor was being a little soft on us and I think part of my blah experience was because of this as well.

I will continue to use my weights and see if anything changes.

I also plan on taking other classes at this gym such as Kickboxing and a Step class as well.

Finally, my Niece brought her "working" scale to our home and I weighed myself. I really didn't want to record my weight in between doctor's visits, however, it was just too temping not to. Therefore, drum roll please... I now weigh 242! This means I have lost 53 pounds!!! Woo Hoo!!!

Misc Stuff

2011-10-27T18:58:00.000-07:00

	Weight and Measurements Chart
		Goal: 195

Date	Weight	Bust	Waist	Hips	Thigh	BMI
Pre-Surgery	295	53	48	59	25
6/1/2011	290	53	48	59	--	49.9
6/15/2011	277	52	48.5	61.5	--	47.5
7/21/2011	268.5	51	46	58.5	24.5	46.1
9/1/2011	257.5	49	46	56	25	44.2
10/13/2011	254	47.5	45	53	23	43.6
10/27/2011	248.8	Dr. Mory's Office Scale
11/22/2011
Totals:	46.2	5.5	3	6	2

Post Surgery Follow-Up (10/13/2011)

2011-10-13T21:48:00.000-07:00

for those of you that have a Facebook account, thanks for reading my update and for posting your remarks. I appreciate all of them. This post however is for those who don't have that access.

Today was my six-week followup appointment and weigh in. Since I have not watched my diet, I kinda knew what the results would be and as we say in Spanish, dicho y hecho (said and true). I lost only 3.5 pounds. The reason this is so depressing is because the checkup before that, I lost 11 pounds. The time before that was nine pounds!

So what did I do wrong? I ate "almost" like I did prior to surgery. One day I had three tacos for dinner. I should have stopped at one. On another day, I had half of a chocolate croissant and so on. What the heck was I thinking when I was eating this stuff? I know better!

On the bright side, and thanks to my Zumba classes, the 5K walk and dancing with my girlfriends, I lost some serious inches. Three inches on my hips and two on my thighs. In my view, excellent results!

What can I do in the future? I attribute my bad eating to stress. Not that I stress out alot, however, when I do, I need to stop and recognize this and of course watch my eating. I will of course continue my Zumba classes. These are fun for me, so this part should be easy. Finally, I need to return to the support group that I went to last week. I liked the group and can see myself making friends with some of the people in the group.

As for the rest of my appointment, my doctor reviewed my blood tests and although the cholesterol was slightly elevated, it wasn't enough to worry about. We also discussed my thyroid and the medication I'm taking for that. Basically, I'll be taking that med for awhile. We also spoke about how good my blood pressure is doing. I told him exactly four years ago it was at 198/? The current reading is 116/70 which it has been consistently there for about a year now. In fact, it is so good that my primary doctor took away one of my blood pressure meds.

Last, but not least, my Lap Band doctor now has his own webpage with patient blogs on it. I will be joining the blog community as one of his patients. Here is the link in case you want to look it up: http://www.marinaweightloss.com/

The following is my Weight and Measurements Chart:

		Goal: 195

Date	Weight	Bust	Waist	Hips	Thigh	BMI
Pre-Surgery	295	53	48	59	25
6/1/2011	290	53	48	59	--	49.9
6/15/2011	277	52	48.5	61.5	--	47.5
7/21/2011	268.5	51	46	58.5	24.5	46.1
9/1/2011	257.5	49	46	56	25	44.2
10/13/2011	254	47.5	45	53	23	43.6
11/22/2011
Totals:	41	5.5	3	6	2

Out of the Darkness Event

2011-10-08T19:03:00.000-07:00

Today I participated in the Out of the Darkness Event. About a year ago, I lost my son-in-law to suicide. Therefore, in my own small attempt, I accepted my daughters challenge to join her in a fundraising drive and a 3+ mile walk.

Although just a small group of us showed up, it gave me more of a desire to get the word out, to do more, to get more people involved and overall to save lives. The people who are so depressed need to know that there IS help out there. If you would like to know more about the organization I joined, I also encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and please visit this link: http://www.outofthedarkness.org/ Lets all unite to do something TODAY!

Todays walk was the hardest piece of exercise that I have done since my surgery four months ago. It was just over a three mile walk. I ended up with a blister on my left foot and a pulled muscle on my right hip. I was able to keep up breathing wise, however, the pain in my hip caused me to come in dead last. I could have easily stopped and had a relative come pick me up, however, I didn't. I completed the walk, baby step by baby step and only five minutes behind a mom and her children in a baby stroller. Thanks to my niece Angelica who although could have run the whole route in just minutes, stayed with me as we completed the route together.

MY ROUTE AND STATS VIA MY iPHONE APP:
http://www.mapmywalk.com/routes/view/53610250

Marisela, where art thou?

2011-10-01T00:09:00.000-07:00

Guilty as charged! However, I have a good excuse... you see, I have been kidnapped by some really good friends. They invite me to go dancing every weekend. We make the rounds of the various clubs in Oxnard and Ventura and dance the night away. Sometimes, I just sit through some of the songs as I have trouble keeping up with them.

This of course brings me to my next and new adventure. These same ladies told me about the Zumba class they take. Of course I had to go and get a guest pass and I loved it. I wasn't able to do the jumps like everyone else, however, in time, I am sure I will be able too. Now all I need to do is get a good deal on their six month membership and I am set.

Another thing that I've noticed is the size of my clothing getting too big... I no longer fit in my old pants. They slide off way too easy and of course never at the right time! I then bought one pair of pants and even though they still fit, they are also starting to fit loose... I am also down a size in my pajamas and boy does that feel good!

Finally, I am now starting to date. This feels really, really good. Just when I had swore it all off and thought my love life was over... ~big smile~

Post Surgery Follow-Up (9/1/2011)

2011-09-02T08:18:00.000-07:00

This time, I was very excited to be making my way to Dr. Korman's office. First and foremost, he is a handsome man, however, that being said, I totally respect him and that ring on his finger...

The day before, I saw my RA doctor. While I was there, I was weighed in and the scale showed 260. What excitement! I thought for sure with all the cheating I was doing, that I would have gained some pounds. However, it was quite the opposite.

Some of the things I did wrong were nibble at the donuts that someone brought to my Moms home. I also had some enchiladas which of course are made with tortillas, an excluded item from my diet. I also had a little bit of soda. I was never a big soda drinker, however, it was so hot this past week, that I just did it out of necessity. Finally I had an egg sandwich with mayonnaise. The bread and mayo, a big no, no!

After being weighed in at Dr. Korman's office, I discovered that I was down even more than the reading the day before. This scale showed 257.5. WOW!!! 11 pounds down from my previous visit with this doctor. The nurse was excited and when the doctor entered, he was very happy for me too!

After the doctors initial greeting, he said "you are almost three months post surgery, you were here six weeks ago and your loss continues very successfully". I then confessed my cheating and he told me "then you know you can do better". "Even though you weren't perfect, and not too many people are, in six weeks you did 11 pounds, two pounds per week, that is encouraging and awesome!". "You are doing beautifully." I had a BIG smile on my face!

We then discussed how the last fill worked out for me. I told him the first week after, I was really full, however, the rest of the time was normal and I ate that way too. I really shouldn't say normal, because pre-surgery, normal would have been a large plate of three enchiladas, rice, beans and maybe some dessert. My post-surgery normal is one enchilada, some rice and some beans. A big difference for me.

The doctor then filled my port with the saline solution. While doing so, I told him about the walking and dancing I did recently. I also told him about my friend Veronica who wants to take me on a one-hour hike, which by the way he is all for. Finally, I told him that I have to buy new clothes. I said my pants keep falling down and never at the right time. Laughter from the Dr. and nurse erupted and he said "oh the things that will happen". I agree!

Below are my updated measurements. All good with exception to my thigh. How did it grow .5 of an inch when the rest got smaller?

	Weight and Measurements Chart

Date	Weight	Bust	Waist	Hips	Thigh	BMI
Pre-Surgery	295	53	48	59	25
6/1/2011	290	53	48	59	--	49.9
6/15/2011	277	52	48.5	61.5	--	47.5
7/21/2011	268.5	51	46	58.5	24.5	46.1
9/1/2011	257.5	49	46	56	25	44.2
	37.5	4	2	3	0.5

Dancing

2011-08-27T09:26:00.000-07:00

Last night I went to Heritage Square in Oxnard to listen to the last concert of the Summer Season. I was invited by a couple of friends that love to dance. I thought I can't possibly do this, much less keep up with them. However, lo and behold, I did it!

Prior to surgery, I was lucky to dance one half of one song. Yesterday, however, with only a couple of breaks, I danced the majority of the two hours and 15 minutes that the band played for. After that event ended, I made my way to the Moose Lodge where I continued to take on another two songs. Whew!!!

The bad/good news... This morning, my feet hurt and every muscle in my body aches. I will consider this good news because after all, it is exercise.

And now a shout to our Family friend Beth Weaverling. Beth had gastric bypass surgery on July 11, 2011. She has lost an AMAZING 43 pounds. Congratulations Beth, I am very proud of you!