Wednesday, January 29, 2014
Moments with the Mullers: It's a New Day... and a New Me
Moments with the Mullers: It's a New Day... and a New Me: I'm sorry I didn't get to blog yesterday. I told you all that I would try but yesterday it was just not possible. Monday night, we...
It's a New Day... and a New Me
I'm sorry I didn't get to blog yesterday. I told you all that I would try but yesterday it was just not possible.
Monday night, we went to group therapy. Red Coyote shoes from OKC was there making a presentaiton. They specialized in measuring your feet to let you know which type of shoe you should be wearing when you work out. The next appointment that I have in OKC, we are going to stop by and look at the shoes and let them measure me.
Yesterday morning, I woke up at like 4:00am. I couldn't sleep. I was anxious and worried. I'm so glad that Johnathan, Michael Andrew and Seth Aaron were there to keep me company. Johnathan helps with calming nervous and the boys made me laugh. We also took my "before" picture of me in a pair of jeans and in a white tee. I want to do one either once a month or a week. I haven't decided. I may just do once a month so that you all can really see the difference.
When we arrived at the hospital, I had to go to the admitting process. It took like ten minutes and the next question they asked was if I had a hysterectomy. Of course the answer is no. So, then I had to take a pregnancy test. A part of me hoped it was positive. That's why I'm doing this right so that I can get pregnant. Of course that test negative. Again, that little part of me was bummed out and upset. There's nothing like failing a test right?
Anyways, then they took me back for pre-op. I had to weigh and of course I had lost another 5 pounds. I was pumped because it put me at a weight that I hadn't been in years! Next, I had to get undressed and into a hospital gown. I was officially scared. It was real and happening. After I had on the awful gown and the non-slip socks, I had to get in the hospital bed. They placed an IV in me which of course is my favorite thing (insert eye roll here). Then I had to get a shot in the side of my belly. It didn't feel too great but it was an antibiotic for my stomach for keeping me from getting an infection. They also placed some other medicines into my IV one was for getting rid of some of the stomach acid and I cannot remember what the other one was for honestly. She also put these things on my legs that will hook up to a machine to keep the blood flowing to prevent blood clots.
Next, the anesthesiologist came in to speak to me. She told me what they were going to do to put me out which was put the anesthesia in the IV line. She also told me about the likely side effects which sounded awful and we will get to the ones that really did effect me in a little while.
Then, Dr. B came in and asked for questions. Explained a few things and he told me that he would see me in a few minutes.
Finally, the OR nurse came in along with the anesthesiologist. They told Johnathan to start kissing me goodbye that I was about to go back. They wheeled me back to the OR. At this point, I was really thinking to myself if I really wanted to do this because I only had a few moments to decide. Next, when we got to the room, they parked the bed and asked me to "scoot" to the other bed. I just sat up and jumped over and they laughed and said "Well, that's how we should tell everyone to do it." Apparently, other patients literaly scoot inch by inch.
I don't remember much after that. I just remember waking up in post up and looking at the nurse. She asked me how I felt and I remember telling her that I felt as if I was having a heartattack. She said it was just gas and is completely normal. It hurt pretty badly. And I felt like was going to throw up.
The next thing I remember, I'm in my room and the nurses are getting everything ready. The machine they hooked up to my legs were on and they felt pretty weird. I remember the nurse asking everyone to leave the room. I asked if Johnathan could stay and she said not right now. She asked me how I felt and I said I was going to throw up. She gave me some Phenegren and some paid medicine. I remember she told JOhnathan that people could come back in; however, they had to be very quiet since that time was the only time I would be able to rest between then and 10:00pm. I heard Michael Andrew say that he and Seth Aaron were just going to go and then Mom and Randy left too so I could get a little rest. Once the meds kicked in, I was able to rest until they got me up to walk.
I got up and walked a lap around the floor. It wasn't easy but it didn't make me hurt any. When i got back to the room, the CNA came in and explained how to sip water. It's a completely new experience. My throat so was so dry that I wanted to take it and chug it, but I was a good patient and sipped. Then it was time to walk again. I made it halfway down the hall and threw up. I didn't throw up much because there really wasn't anything to throw up. I finished a lap and made it back to my room. The nurse came in with a different medicine to help with the nausea. It didn't help too much because within the hour, I was throwing up again and now my scars started to get a little sore. At this poing in the evening, I started to cry. I felt so bad that I looked over at my husband and said "I've made a terrible mistake." I don't believe that now, but I was feeeling very crappy. I was supposed to stay awake so that I could keep sipping the liquid; however, I could barely keep my eyes open so Johnathan woke me up every 5 minutes to sip water and then every hour to do a lap. It was a pretty long night.
At 10:30, I had enough and decided to go to bed. It hurt to lie down. My scars hurt a little. So I adjusted my bed up a little so that I wasn't laying flat. The nurse came in and gave me the pain medicine and I slept really well until the nurse came back in to check my vitals. I only had water bottle and 1/2 to get down so I started on it right away. Dr. B came in and said that everything was looking good that I should be able to go home today. He said that I have to have two bottles of liquid down before lunch, two more bottles before dinner and then two more before bed. Right now, it seems like an impossible task. But, I'm working on it.
Finally, the nurse came in to discharge me! I was so excited to go home! I got dressed and we loaded up and left. We stopped at Academy because I want a Camelbak cup. It's a cup with a one way straw that you have to bite down on to get the water out. This will help with the sipping. It will help teach me to sip not gulp. I got a pink one. It's rather cute. Then, we got into the car. The car brought back my nausea hard core. We were told to stop every hour on the way home so that i could walk. When we stopped at Shawnee, the nausea was too hard core to handle, so we werent through Walgreens and got my presecription for Phenegran and pain killer filled. After, I took it, I slept all the way.
I still feel really nauseated and my scars are very sore, but I can do this. This is a new day and a new me. I'm just counting down the days until I'm released to get pregnant :).
Again, I really want to thank you all for you prayers and support. This isn't going to be easy and to know that I have so much support makes me feel loved and really makes me realize that I can do this.
So, for now, that's all that I need prayers and support because this does feel so bad for right now.
Anyways, hopefully, I can get in another blog in a day or two.
Happy reading! and God Bless You!
Monday night, we went to group therapy. Red Coyote shoes from OKC was there making a presentaiton. They specialized in measuring your feet to let you know which type of shoe you should be wearing when you work out. The next appointment that I have in OKC, we are going to stop by and look at the shoes and let them measure me.
Yesterday morning, I woke up at like 4:00am. I couldn't sleep. I was anxious and worried. I'm so glad that Johnathan, Michael Andrew and Seth Aaron were there to keep me company. Johnathan helps with calming nervous and the boys made me laugh. We also took my "before" picture of me in a pair of jeans and in a white tee. I want to do one either once a month or a week. I haven't decided. I may just do once a month so that you all can really see the difference.
When we arrived at the hospital, I had to go to the admitting process. It took like ten minutes and the next question they asked was if I had a hysterectomy. Of course the answer is no. So, then I had to take a pregnancy test. A part of me hoped it was positive. That's why I'm doing this right so that I can get pregnant. Of course that test negative. Again, that little part of me was bummed out and upset. There's nothing like failing a test right?
Anyways, then they took me back for pre-op. I had to weigh and of course I had lost another 5 pounds. I was pumped because it put me at a weight that I hadn't been in years! Next, I had to get undressed and into a hospital gown. I was officially scared. It was real and happening. After I had on the awful gown and the non-slip socks, I had to get in the hospital bed. They placed an IV in me which of course is my favorite thing (insert eye roll here). Then I had to get a shot in the side of my belly. It didn't feel too great but it was an antibiotic for my stomach for keeping me from getting an infection. They also placed some other medicines into my IV one was for getting rid of some of the stomach acid and I cannot remember what the other one was for honestly. She also put these things on my legs that will hook up to a machine to keep the blood flowing to prevent blood clots.
Next, the anesthesiologist came in to speak to me. She told me what they were going to do to put me out which was put the anesthesia in the IV line. She also told me about the likely side effects which sounded awful and we will get to the ones that really did effect me in a little while.
Then, Dr. B came in and asked for questions. Explained a few things and he told me that he would see me in a few minutes.
Finally, the OR nurse came in along with the anesthesiologist. They told Johnathan to start kissing me goodbye that I was about to go back. They wheeled me back to the OR. At this point, I was really thinking to myself if I really wanted to do this because I only had a few moments to decide. Next, when we got to the room, they parked the bed and asked me to "scoot" to the other bed. I just sat up and jumped over and they laughed and said "Well, that's how we should tell everyone to do it." Apparently, other patients literaly scoot inch by inch.
I don't remember much after that. I just remember waking up in post up and looking at the nurse. She asked me how I felt and I remember telling her that I felt as if I was having a heartattack. She said it was just gas and is completely normal. It hurt pretty badly. And I felt like was going to throw up.
The next thing I remember, I'm in my room and the nurses are getting everything ready. The machine they hooked up to my legs were on and they felt pretty weird. I remember the nurse asking everyone to leave the room. I asked if Johnathan could stay and she said not right now. She asked me how I felt and I said I was going to throw up. She gave me some Phenegren and some paid medicine. I remember she told JOhnathan that people could come back in; however, they had to be very quiet since that time was the only time I would be able to rest between then and 10:00pm. I heard Michael Andrew say that he and Seth Aaron were just going to go and then Mom and Randy left too so I could get a little rest. Once the meds kicked in, I was able to rest until they got me up to walk.
I got up and walked a lap around the floor. It wasn't easy but it didn't make me hurt any. When i got back to the room, the CNA came in and explained how to sip water. It's a completely new experience. My throat so was so dry that I wanted to take it and chug it, but I was a good patient and sipped. Then it was time to walk again. I made it halfway down the hall and threw up. I didn't throw up much because there really wasn't anything to throw up. I finished a lap and made it back to my room. The nurse came in with a different medicine to help with the nausea. It didn't help too much because within the hour, I was throwing up again and now my scars started to get a little sore. At this poing in the evening, I started to cry. I felt so bad that I looked over at my husband and said "I've made a terrible mistake." I don't believe that now, but I was feeeling very crappy. I was supposed to stay awake so that I could keep sipping the liquid; however, I could barely keep my eyes open so Johnathan woke me up every 5 minutes to sip water and then every hour to do a lap. It was a pretty long night.
At 10:30, I had enough and decided to go to bed. It hurt to lie down. My scars hurt a little. So I adjusted my bed up a little so that I wasn't laying flat. The nurse came in and gave me the pain medicine and I slept really well until the nurse came back in to check my vitals. I only had water bottle and 1/2 to get down so I started on it right away. Dr. B came in and said that everything was looking good that I should be able to go home today. He said that I have to have two bottles of liquid down before lunch, two more bottles before dinner and then two more before bed. Right now, it seems like an impossible task. But, I'm working on it.
Finally, the nurse came in to discharge me! I was so excited to go home! I got dressed and we loaded up and left. We stopped at Academy because I want a Camelbak cup. It's a cup with a one way straw that you have to bite down on to get the water out. This will help with the sipping. It will help teach me to sip not gulp. I got a pink one. It's rather cute. Then, we got into the car. The car brought back my nausea hard core. We were told to stop every hour on the way home so that i could walk. When we stopped at Shawnee, the nausea was too hard core to handle, so we werent through Walgreens and got my presecription for Phenegran and pain killer filled. After, I took it, I slept all the way.
I still feel really nauseated and my scars are very sore, but I can do this. This is a new day and a new me. I'm just counting down the days until I'm released to get pregnant :).
Again, I really want to thank you all for you prayers and support. This isn't going to be easy and to know that I have so much support makes me feel loved and really makes me realize that I can do this.
So, for now, that's all that I need prayers and support because this does feel so bad for right now.
Anyways, hopefully, I can get in another blog in a day or two.
Happy reading! and God Bless You!
Wednesday, January 22, 2014
Moments with the Mullers: It's getting real....and I'm getting real nervous
Moments with the Mullers: It's getting real....and I'm getting real nervous: Today was the pre-op diet class. It's officially real kids. I'm starting to get nervous. I was warned about this: these feelings of ...
It's getting real....and I'm getting real nervous
Today was the pre-op diet class. It's officially real kids. I'm starting to get nervous. I was warned about this: these feelings of doubt and I'm pre-warned about buyers remorse in the first few weeks. But I can do this. I am determined. I am strong. I'm just having a weak moment when hit with all of this information.
The first thing they talk about is the importance of hydration. Did you know that when you think you're hungry, you may not be hungry but thirsty instead. The body response is sometimes the same. Anyways, hydration is the most important part of this surgery recover/life change. I should get at least 64 ounces of liquids but no less than 96. I've struggled with this during this pre-surgery weight loss period. I get busy and I honestly do not think about hydration. But no more, I've got to make time and take the time to sip. I am thinking about getting a Camelbak bottle. It aids in sipping fluids and not gulping like I do now. Water really is an important key to weight loss. It aids in body function, appetite suppression, metabolism, and other issues like getting rid of constipation. And I don't have to drink just plain water towards my 96. In fact, 24-32 ounces of that should be something with electrolites like PoweradeZero (which I LOVE). I can have decaf cofee and tea, flavored waters, diet V8, Ocean Spray Diet Cranberry or Orange Citrus Spray, broths chicken, veggie or beef, and of course my favs sugar free Jell-O and popsicles. I have choices that don't involve just plain ol' water, but I enjoy glasses of those as well. Dehydration can be serious for me after the surgery. I really have to learn to take care of myself. So, if you see me after January 28th, ask me if I'm close to my 96.... There are some restrictions like not gulping which I already mentioned, no eating and drinking at the same time, wait one hour after meals before drinking and of course no carbonated beverages. I haven't had a pop since May 2013 so we're good on that one!
Next she went over the pre-op day before surgery diet instructions again. It was reiterated that I should get as much liquids as possible the day before surgery. They have to be clear liquids such as broths, water, orange, yellow or green PoweradeZero, and sugar free jello and popsicles. They cannot be red, blue or purple because those colors can dye the insides of your GI tract. I'm nervous about this because I'm so worried that I will hungry to the point of starvation, but I can do it. We have decided to stay in OKC the night before so that we don't have to get up at the crack of dawn and rush up there. We are going to group to the night before because I want to hear about those shoes, but we are also staying at a hotel with a pool so I can relax and maybe even do a little excercising so that I will sleep good and keep my mind on some positives.
Next she went over the different stages of the diet. Stage 1 is a 2 week liquid diet. This including the clear liquid hydraion diet as well as some protein suppliments like the high protein soups, drinks, pudding, and shakes. I think I might buy some soups on Monday because they say the warm things help sooth the stomach. I also cannot take any vitamins for two weeks.
The 2nd stage is the soft protein foods stage. Only 3 meals per day, no snacking. I also have to take small bites like the size of the eraser on the pencil. They also want you to try new foods one at a time and in small amounts. They warned us that food intolerances are common. Just because I love a food or drink now, I may not after surgery. It would wonderful if I developed an intolerance for fried foods, sugar and all that other banned stuff! The first week of stage 2, I am allowed, light or reduced fat cheese, plain creek yogurt, eggs, refried beans, and modified tuna/chicken salad (meat & condiment only). She suggested you try it in that order to help build up your tolerance for food. The 2nd step of stage 2 includes eggs, whole beans, skinless dark meat poultry, canned meat without condiments, deli meats that are shaved, fish, and tofu. She suggested that we try many rubs, herbs and spices to your food so that you don't get tired of the food. She also said that it common that I might like the spicier food after. Looking forward to that.
The third and final stage is called the lifetime stage. Because it's the last stage for a lifetime. It's basically intergrating stage 2's rules such as no snacking, 3 small meals per day with the diet I'm on now. Proteins and veggies. She recommended that you consiciously eat not while watching tv or working so you can really focus on your pouch and not get too full. She said that we should be nice to our pouch. She explained that our new stomachs is like a funnel. Which is why you can't eat and drink at the same time. The goal is to keep your pouch full so that your hunger is kept at a minimum. So think of a funnel, if you chew chicken and spit it out and then pour water on it, it's going to go down the funnel. It's easier to look at the picture, but makes sense to me.
Then she explained the new vitamin regiment to us. Of course I have to have a multivitamin; however, I can no longer have the tablets. They have to be chewable, capsule or liquid. I will also have to take a iron supplement, calcium citrate, Vitamin B12, and probiotic. I can't start taking these vitamins until 2 weeks after the surgery. I haven't shopped around for vitamins or decided which type I want to take. I need to do a little more research.
Next was a section over alcohol. I cannot have alcohol for at least 6 to 12 months. Why? Because right now, it takes my body 20 - 30 minutes to fill the effects and for it to hit my blood stream. After surgery, it will take 5 minutes. They call it the cheap date effect. I also need to watch the mixer drinks such as OJ, Red Bull, etc.. It's a small sacrifice, but I've given up Dr. Pepper & Sweet Tea, so this is most definelty doable since I don't drink but 3 or 4 times a year.
Next she went over a segment called "Special Topics." This is the part that kinda jolted me. Dumping syndrome is real and she explained it like explosive diarrhea. High fat (fried foods) high sugar (cakes, pies, ice cream) will give me this and it can last for 15 minutes up to 2 hours. Another "scary" complication is frothing. This one freaks me out too and cannot be caused by eating the wrong things. This is caused by mucous that collects in the pouch during the healng process and then this causes clear/frothy vomiting; however, drinking the warm soups/fluids can be helpful to breaking up the mucous. The final complication that scares me is the hair thinning/loss. As some of you know, my hair and eyes are the only attribute that I find beautiful about myself. So, the thought of losing my hair is scaring me. She said that some people benefit from biotin and other vitamins but they are not clinically proven to help, so I don't know.
What I am nervous about? I can't really explain but I guess the way to sum it is up is I'm afraid of failing. I'm not afraid of the pain or dying or the fight ahead. I'm afraid that I've wasted $10,167 on this surgery only to fail because I'm addicted to food. Tonight, I honestly was a little bummed about not having bread again or nachos or a cheeseburger. Honestly, it scares me that I'm that addicted to food that I will miss it. I understand it's psychological and I have done a good job of having the will power, but now that surgery is just 6 days away, I'm scared I will mess this all up. I'm scared that it won't work and all this work will be for not.
I just need prayers. I need prayer for patience, comfort, and healing. So for the next couple of days, I'm going to continue my diet, spend time with my family, exercise and rest to prepare for this life change.
Thank you all for reading. I may post on Monday at the hotel but I'm defintely going to try to post at the hospital. It just depends on how loopy I am afterwards. So, if I do post and it's crazy sounding, it's the the anesthesia. So, anyways, I hope you all enjoy my novel and I look forward to seeing your support because it really does keep me going!
God bless you!!
The first thing they talk about is the importance of hydration. Did you know that when you think you're hungry, you may not be hungry but thirsty instead. The body response is sometimes the same. Anyways, hydration is the most important part of this surgery recover/life change. I should get at least 64 ounces of liquids but no less than 96. I've struggled with this during this pre-surgery weight loss period. I get busy and I honestly do not think about hydration. But no more, I've got to make time and take the time to sip. I am thinking about getting a Camelbak bottle. It aids in sipping fluids and not gulping like I do now. Water really is an important key to weight loss. It aids in body function, appetite suppression, metabolism, and other issues like getting rid of constipation. And I don't have to drink just plain water towards my 96. In fact, 24-32 ounces of that should be something with electrolites like PoweradeZero (which I LOVE). I can have decaf cofee and tea, flavored waters, diet V8, Ocean Spray Diet Cranberry or Orange Citrus Spray, broths chicken, veggie or beef, and of course my favs sugar free Jell-O and popsicles. I have choices that don't involve just plain ol' water, but I enjoy glasses of those as well. Dehydration can be serious for me after the surgery. I really have to learn to take care of myself. So, if you see me after January 28th, ask me if I'm close to my 96.... There are some restrictions like not gulping which I already mentioned, no eating and drinking at the same time, wait one hour after meals before drinking and of course no carbonated beverages. I haven't had a pop since May 2013 so we're good on that one!
Next she went over the pre-op day before surgery diet instructions again. It was reiterated that I should get as much liquids as possible the day before surgery. They have to be clear liquids such as broths, water, orange, yellow or green PoweradeZero, and sugar free jello and popsicles. They cannot be red, blue or purple because those colors can dye the insides of your GI tract. I'm nervous about this because I'm so worried that I will hungry to the point of starvation, but I can do it. We have decided to stay in OKC the night before so that we don't have to get up at the crack of dawn and rush up there. We are going to group to the night before because I want to hear about those shoes, but we are also staying at a hotel with a pool so I can relax and maybe even do a little excercising so that I will sleep good and keep my mind on some positives.
Next she went over the different stages of the diet. Stage 1 is a 2 week liquid diet. This including the clear liquid hydraion diet as well as some protein suppliments like the high protein soups, drinks, pudding, and shakes. I think I might buy some soups on Monday because they say the warm things help sooth the stomach. I also cannot take any vitamins for two weeks.
The 2nd stage is the soft protein foods stage. Only 3 meals per day, no snacking. I also have to take small bites like the size of the eraser on the pencil. They also want you to try new foods one at a time and in small amounts. They warned us that food intolerances are common. Just because I love a food or drink now, I may not after surgery. It would wonderful if I developed an intolerance for fried foods, sugar and all that other banned stuff! The first week of stage 2, I am allowed, light or reduced fat cheese, plain creek yogurt, eggs, refried beans, and modified tuna/chicken salad (meat & condiment only). She suggested you try it in that order to help build up your tolerance for food. The 2nd step of stage 2 includes eggs, whole beans, skinless dark meat poultry, canned meat without condiments, deli meats that are shaved, fish, and tofu. She suggested that we try many rubs, herbs and spices to your food so that you don't get tired of the food. She also said that it common that I might like the spicier food after. Looking forward to that.
The third and final stage is called the lifetime stage. Because it's the last stage for a lifetime. It's basically intergrating stage 2's rules such as no snacking, 3 small meals per day with the diet I'm on now. Proteins and veggies. She recommended that you consiciously eat not while watching tv or working so you can really focus on your pouch and not get too full. She said that we should be nice to our pouch. She explained that our new stomachs is like a funnel. Which is why you can't eat and drink at the same time. The goal is to keep your pouch full so that your hunger is kept at a minimum. So think of a funnel, if you chew chicken and spit it out and then pour water on it, it's going to go down the funnel. It's easier to look at the picture, but makes sense to me.
Then she explained the new vitamin regiment to us. Of course I have to have a multivitamin; however, I can no longer have the tablets. They have to be chewable, capsule or liquid. I will also have to take a iron supplement, calcium citrate, Vitamin B12, and probiotic. I can't start taking these vitamins until 2 weeks after the surgery. I haven't shopped around for vitamins or decided which type I want to take. I need to do a little more research.
Next was a section over alcohol. I cannot have alcohol for at least 6 to 12 months. Why? Because right now, it takes my body 20 - 30 minutes to fill the effects and for it to hit my blood stream. After surgery, it will take 5 minutes. They call it the cheap date effect. I also need to watch the mixer drinks such as OJ, Red Bull, etc.. It's a small sacrifice, but I've given up Dr. Pepper & Sweet Tea, so this is most definelty doable since I don't drink but 3 or 4 times a year.
Next she went over a segment called "Special Topics." This is the part that kinda jolted me. Dumping syndrome is real and she explained it like explosive diarrhea. High fat (fried foods) high sugar (cakes, pies, ice cream) will give me this and it can last for 15 minutes up to 2 hours. Another "scary" complication is frothing. This one freaks me out too and cannot be caused by eating the wrong things. This is caused by mucous that collects in the pouch during the healng process and then this causes clear/frothy vomiting; however, drinking the warm soups/fluids can be helpful to breaking up the mucous. The final complication that scares me is the hair thinning/loss. As some of you know, my hair and eyes are the only attribute that I find beautiful about myself. So, the thought of losing my hair is scaring me. She said that some people benefit from biotin and other vitamins but they are not clinically proven to help, so I don't know.
What I am nervous about? I can't really explain but I guess the way to sum it is up is I'm afraid of failing. I'm not afraid of the pain or dying or the fight ahead. I'm afraid that I've wasted $10,167 on this surgery only to fail because I'm addicted to food. Tonight, I honestly was a little bummed about not having bread again or nachos or a cheeseburger. Honestly, it scares me that I'm that addicted to food that I will miss it. I understand it's psychological and I have done a good job of having the will power, but now that surgery is just 6 days away, I'm scared I will mess this all up. I'm scared that it won't work and all this work will be for not.
I just need prayers. I need prayer for patience, comfort, and healing. So for the next couple of days, I'm going to continue my diet, spend time with my family, exercise and rest to prepare for this life change.
Thank you all for reading. I may post on Monday at the hotel but I'm defintely going to try to post at the hospital. It just depends on how loopy I am afterwards. So, if I do post and it's crazy sounding, it's the the anesthesia. So, anyways, I hope you all enjoy my novel and I look forward to seeing your support because it really does keep me going!
God bless you!!
Saturday, January 18, 2014
Moments with the Mullers: Can't help it but I'm really proud of myself.
Moments with the Mullers: Can't help it but I'm really proud of myself.: I really can't help it but I've never been so proud of myself. For those of you know me, you know that I'm really hard on myself...
Can't help it but I'm really proud of myself.
I really can't help it but I've never been so proud of myself. For those of you know me, you know that I'm really hard on myself most of the time but I just want you to know that I was I lost two more pounds than I needed to for my weight loss goal! I freaking did it! It wasn't easy and there were moments of weakness but I worked really hard. I truly am proud of myself. I've learned some things about myself that people tell but I've never really believed. I'm a pretty strong person. I've been hit with somethings and worked through it. I'm also pretty determined. I can get things done. I'm really glad that this new found confidence is coming at the same time as the surgery. I know the road ahead isn't going to be easy and I'm going to need all of the confidence and support that I can get.
Now, on to the update portion. My appointment was on Thursday at 3:00pm. I might have said this before, but I don't eat on weigh in days. So, someone who is used to eating 4 times a day, was starving! Anyways, I was so excited when I weighed in that I hardly contain it. Even though I weigh every week, I still worry. So, Dr. B was super pumped too! I had to fill out some paperwork. The first was a long list that was my consent to surgery. On this list was a four page list of possible complications. I read like the first have page and stopped because they were kinda freaking me out. So, I skimmed the next three pages until the complication "Complications in future pregnancies" came on the list. We all know this is why I am doing this so I asked Dr. B what this meant. His answer was that now that I'm not eating all of this bad stuff, I may not get all of the vitamins I need. Which kind made me laugh. Bad stuff have vitamins too?! Anyways, he said that as long as I take all of the necessary vitamins when I'm pregnant (pre-natal, B12 shot, etc..) that I should have a very health pregnancy. There's no reason why not. I just to do what the physician's say when I get pregnant and make sure that I use a WeightWise nutritionist so that I can can a healthy preganancy weight and then again so I can the weight off after pregnancy. That answer was good enough for me so I signed on the dotted line with my consent. Next, I had to go through the anesthesia consent that asked a bunch of medical questions blah blah blah. So, I should be fine. The only other thing that Dr. B warned me about is that will all of the gas and liquid during surgery, I will weigh more post-op than I did pre-op. He told me that he was proud of all my hard work and thanked me for being such a cooperative patient. And hugged me and patted Johnathan on the butt. I still laugh when I think about it.
Speaking of Johnathan, I have no bigger supporter than my husband. He has ate all of the same things with me and went to the gym with me all without complaining. He has told me every day what a wonderful job that I am doing and stood beside me as I griped and complained about being hungry and whining about not wanting to go to the gym. He has lost 55 pounds to my 43. I am so proud to call him my husband. He is everything that I have ever dreamed of and more. God sure has blessed me with a husband like him. When you see him, please tell him what a wonderful job he has done!
Next, the lab came in and took some blood to do some pre-op testing. They are testing for my blood count and the other basic stuff including my calcium which we all know was dangerously low. If my blood count is low, then my surgery is off but I'm not aniticipating anything wrong with that. If my calcium is low then I just continue taking prescription calcium until they are back to normal.
Finally, my Patient Advocate came in to give me pre-op instructions. Summitt Medical Center will notify me a few days before my surgery to let me know what time to come in. I think we are deciding whether or not to stay in OKC overnight on Monday. There is a group that I'm interested in attending. It's about workout shoes. There's a store in OKC that measures your feet to see what ttype of workout shoe is best for your feet. It sounds pretty interesting and we all know how much I love group (insert sarcasm here). Anyways, we are still in discussion about it. At midnight on the 27th, I can't eat and only drink clear liquids. I'm kinda nervous about it because I'm working and I'm worried about smelling food and being miserable, but I have a great team that surrounds me and I know I have the support that I will need. I also have to shower the day/night before and the day of the surgery and use some special soap. It starts with an H and they sell it at Walgreens or Walmart. Anyway, I have to wash my entire belly including my bellybutton with this soap. I also need to drink as much fluid as possible to get me ready for surgery. I only had one final question: Can I wear my own PJs. And the answer is yes. I can pick out my own so I'm going to get a couple of new pairs of cute ones!
It's so close that I have a range of different emotions. I'm excited and scared. I'm ready for it to be over;however, I'm not excited about the discomforts that I am sure to face.
Another plus side is that I actually know quite a few people who have had this surgery and had great success with it. I've heard a few "horror" stories but mostly things have gone great with people. I've had questions answers and recieved both good and bad advice. Who knows, maybe a year or so from now this blog will become a pregnancy blog and then a parenting blog. There are still so many possibilities.
I go back on Wednesday to a Post-Op diet class. I will learn about the different phases from liquid to soft food to real food. I will blog all about it. Promise :).
For now, like always, just add us to our prayer list. I know that at times I can get a little scared and even though he won't admit it, I know that Johnathan is a little nervous. I've made a few "life insurance" jokes and he is starting to get aggrevated at them. Anyways, just keep us in your prayers and think about us. Oh, and I will only be in the hospital overnight but everyone is welcome to drop by. I just ask that you not send goodie bags with candy to the hospital (obviously).
Thanks for reading and look forward to writing the next one!
Now, on to the update portion. My appointment was on Thursday at 3:00pm. I might have said this before, but I don't eat on weigh in days. So, someone who is used to eating 4 times a day, was starving! Anyways, I was so excited when I weighed in that I hardly contain it. Even though I weigh every week, I still worry. So, Dr. B was super pumped too! I had to fill out some paperwork. The first was a long list that was my consent to surgery. On this list was a four page list of possible complications. I read like the first have page and stopped because they were kinda freaking me out. So, I skimmed the next three pages until the complication "Complications in future pregnancies" came on the list. We all know this is why I am doing this so I asked Dr. B what this meant. His answer was that now that I'm not eating all of this bad stuff, I may not get all of the vitamins I need. Which kind made me laugh. Bad stuff have vitamins too?! Anyways, he said that as long as I take all of the necessary vitamins when I'm pregnant (pre-natal, B12 shot, etc..) that I should have a very health pregnancy. There's no reason why not. I just to do what the physician's say when I get pregnant and make sure that I use a WeightWise nutritionist so that I can can a healthy preganancy weight and then again so I can the weight off after pregnancy. That answer was good enough for me so I signed on the dotted line with my consent. Next, I had to go through the anesthesia consent that asked a bunch of medical questions blah blah blah. So, I should be fine. The only other thing that Dr. B warned me about is that will all of the gas and liquid during surgery, I will weigh more post-op than I did pre-op. He told me that he was proud of all my hard work and thanked me for being such a cooperative patient. And hugged me and patted Johnathan on the butt. I still laugh when I think about it.
Speaking of Johnathan, I have no bigger supporter than my husband. He has ate all of the same things with me and went to the gym with me all without complaining. He has told me every day what a wonderful job that I am doing and stood beside me as I griped and complained about being hungry and whining about not wanting to go to the gym. He has lost 55 pounds to my 43. I am so proud to call him my husband. He is everything that I have ever dreamed of and more. God sure has blessed me with a husband like him. When you see him, please tell him what a wonderful job he has done!
Next, the lab came in and took some blood to do some pre-op testing. They are testing for my blood count and the other basic stuff including my calcium which we all know was dangerously low. If my blood count is low, then my surgery is off but I'm not aniticipating anything wrong with that. If my calcium is low then I just continue taking prescription calcium until they are back to normal.
Finally, my Patient Advocate came in to give me pre-op instructions. Summitt Medical Center will notify me a few days before my surgery to let me know what time to come in. I think we are deciding whether or not to stay in OKC overnight on Monday. There is a group that I'm interested in attending. It's about workout shoes. There's a store in OKC that measures your feet to see what ttype of workout shoe is best for your feet. It sounds pretty interesting and we all know how much I love group (insert sarcasm here). Anyways, we are still in discussion about it. At midnight on the 27th, I can't eat and only drink clear liquids. I'm kinda nervous about it because I'm working and I'm worried about smelling food and being miserable, but I have a great team that surrounds me and I know I have the support that I will need. I also have to shower the day/night before and the day of the surgery and use some special soap. It starts with an H and they sell it at Walgreens or Walmart. Anyway, I have to wash my entire belly including my bellybutton with this soap. I also need to drink as much fluid as possible to get me ready for surgery. I only had one final question: Can I wear my own PJs. And the answer is yes. I can pick out my own so I'm going to get a couple of new pairs of cute ones!
It's so close that I have a range of different emotions. I'm excited and scared. I'm ready for it to be over;however, I'm not excited about the discomforts that I am sure to face.
Another plus side is that I actually know quite a few people who have had this surgery and had great success with it. I've heard a few "horror" stories but mostly things have gone great with people. I've had questions answers and recieved both good and bad advice. Who knows, maybe a year or so from now this blog will become a pregnancy blog and then a parenting blog. There are still so many possibilities.
I go back on Wednesday to a Post-Op diet class. I will learn about the different phases from liquid to soft food to real food. I will blog all about it. Promise :).
For now, like always, just add us to our prayer list. I know that at times I can get a little scared and even though he won't admit it, I know that Johnathan is a little nervous. I've made a few "life insurance" jokes and he is starting to get aggrevated at them. Anyways, just keep us in your prayers and think about us. Oh, and I will only be in the hospital overnight but everyone is welcome to drop by. I just ask that you not send goodie bags with candy to the hospital (obviously).
Thanks for reading and look forward to writing the next one!
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