Today, I called the surgery center to ask about the filter again. They said they would check with the doctor and call me back. Needless to say I have not heard from them. I explained that I had talked to three folks who had the lap band and two of the three had the filter. I just don't understand why they are not putting one in me. I really want to cancel the surgery. But, I know my wife wants me to have it so we press on.

Well today is another day. I have really had a good day as far as food. One thing I am concentrating on now is eating slower. It is not easy. I am so used to shoveling the food in and now I have to take smaller bites and chew them thoroughly. but, I do find I am full sooner so I see how this works. One of the hardest things for me is not drinking while eating. I am so used to sipping as I go and now I am supposed to stop drinking 30 minutes before each meal and not drink again until 30 minutes after the meal. But, I will get used to it

On another note, I have spoken with 3 others who have had the band. 2 of the three got the filter the other did not. I am still curious as to why I am not getting a filter. I am going to call the surgeon's office again tomorrow for further clarification.

Today I called and got my disability changed. I also had my final doubts taken away. I really was prepared to call and cancel the procedure. But, I had lunch with my beautiful wife and asked her point blank did she really think I needed to have this done. She is so wise and I know how much she loves me. She said she sees this as a way to help me lose the rest of the weight and help maintain my weight for the rest of my life. She also told me and she is right, I have been up and down with my weight. I simply cannot keep that up. The procedure will help me maintain the weight once it is off. I am nervous and a bit scared. But, I am ready. The praying has been done. The pre op diet is being observed. Weight is coming off and I am getting healthy. I feel so much better having lost the weight I have taken off. Hopefully there will be no further distractions and this will come off without a hitch.

Well, today once again brought more challenges and discouragement. I had my coroded artery study and leg vein study. the good news is the tests were normal. But, today I found out they are not going to do the filter to prevent blood clots. One of the major reasons I decided to do this procedure was because of the filter. Now, I have to change my disability, work with my manager who is great by the way for my days off. Honestly, I am beginning to think this is a mistake. I had lost another 12lbs according to the scales which is so encouraging. Bottom line, I can do this without the surgery. But, I guess on the bright side is the surgery will prevent me from going back to the way I was. The major key is following the program. The procedure will require me being admitted in the hospital Sept 2. The procedure itself actually takes about 30-45 minutes. After the procedure I will be in recovery for about 3 hours. I will get up and walk soon after waking up. I will have to wear some tight thing for my legs. this is to prevent cloting. If all goes well, I will go home the next day. Once home, I will have to be very careful about what I eat. It is mostly fluids for two days then I gradually begin to introduce some food mainly grits and mashed potatoes. Sugar free jello and pudding is also ok. After 6 weeks they will do the first adjustment. It will be exciting to see how much I will have lost. But, I think I will always wonder why I did this when I am doing so well on my own. I will continue to post my thoughts and things around the procedure. My purpose in doing this blog is to help educate those that may be considering bariatric surgery. I hope it helps.

Aug 8 2010

The reality of what I am facing is really beginning to hit me now. Tonight we went to a cook out at my God daughter's. There were hamburgers hotdogs, chili, chips, sodas, watermellon, cookies and sweet tea. As I watched everyone eat I began to realize that these days are going to be behind me. Oh, I may enjoy a burger with no bun and even a chip or two but for the most part these days will be over. That is what I will miss the most. I love going through the line and fixing my burger with chips, potatoe salad, sodas and what ever else is available. After the procedure my stomach will just not be able to handle it. I think about going out to eat with my wife and childen and how my life will change. So many adjustments and yet so much potential to improve my health and quality of life. Is it worth it? Most would say yes and I think I am in that catagory. but, it is still hard.

tomorrow, I work 8-8 so I can save time for the rest of the year. Tuesday, I have my coroded artery study and the mri to determine if I have blood clots. Also, I have to meet with the dietitian again and attend a class about the procedure and life after. Next Monday I meet with the surgeon again then the filter is put in aug 26. It will be here before I know it. Life is changing but change is good......right???

Today is one day closer to the surgery. Everything seems to be set. I have my disability approved and all the preop stuff is scheduled. Now it is just a matter of waiting. So many regrets. If only I had taken control before my weight got so far out of hand I would not be facing what I am facing. The one thing I have proven over the past few months. I have lost 41lbs. I have reduced my waist line. I am improving my health and all of this without the surgery. I feel I need to go through it though for Emily and the girls. So, on to the future and God's will.

August 2 2010

Well, today the surgery center called. They have me scheduled for Sept 2. Big problem is that is opening day for Gamecock football! One big thing still needs to be addressed and that is will they approve my disability on the day they put the filter in. I really want the filter because it prevents blood clots and it is permanent. So, right now, we have a date so let's see if the other pieces fall into place.

On another note, Emily bought me some new t-shirts and underwear. They are smaller and they fit. I feel so good about my progress.

But, today was not a good day from my heart. The jumping was very bad today and the chest pains were really intense. The doctor has told me there is nothing life threatening so I guess I have to accept that but man, sometimes this is very intense. Hopefully the surgery will help.