Chris A.

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Don't look back! What a ride its been so far and I'm only getting started. I'm about halfway to where I think I may end up. I've lost 57 pounds with about 56 to go. The funny thing (to me) is that I've gained confidence every step along the way. This has been in part, due to the sage advice of veterans on this site. I've become a devotee to those who believe that you limit your carbs to 40g or less, get in at least 80 g of protein and drink at least 80 - 100 ounces of water daily. That and 60 minutes of stationary bike at least 6 days a week and I'm rocking it so far.

Thanks to my focus and the advice found on this site, I was able to deal with my surgeon's staff when they want me to strive to be average!?! I won't settle for average. I've had major surgery, gained a great tool and I want my health and fitness back so I can have a do over on the second half of my life! I'm fitting in clothes I've only dreamed of. I'm keeping up with my teenage kids like I couldn't have imagined 6 months ago. Is this journey worth the sacrifices? Absolutely!

Gradually I am replacing my fears, doubts and concerns with a belief in myself. I can do this. I wil do this. I am doing this. I'm doing it first and foremost for me. And I'm glad others are gaining from my experience too.

Well here I am 5 days out. Up until 2 weeks ago, I was scheduled for RNY. As my surgery date loomed large, I was getting more and more uneasy. I finally came to terms with the fact that the procedure was too invasive to suit me. I was approved to switch to VSG. I still have some concerns, but none greater than staying heavy for any longer. I know I can do this long term with the help of the tool I am about to get.

I'm not sure who I want to see this, but if for no one else but myself, here it goes. I am fat. I ahve had issues with being over weight for almost as long as I have memories. When I was only in fourth grade, I remember running around in the summer months with no shirt and having my friends make fun of my belly. In Jr. High, I remember going to a birthday party and being shoved into the pool with my clothes on because I was the fat kid and it was okay to pick on us. Finally, during the summer of my Junior year in High School I discovered bicylcing and salads. I started the summer at 281 pounds (I am 5' 10"). By the end of that summer, I was down to 170. I had an awesome Senior year with my class of '83. Then off to college. My dad died suddenly when he was away traveling for work. The unlce I was closest to died from lung cancer two years later. I began a series of periods of regaining and then losing the weight.

Fast forward to now. I'm 47, with a 12 year old son and 10 year old daughter. I have a desk job and between work and shuttling kids, I find it challenging to carve time to exercise. But boy do I enjoy cooking and eating. If I had to choose a new occupation, I would love to open a diner or cafe. When we get together with friends, I love to cook elaborate meals. And of course an interesting cocktail or good wine must be paired with it. I'm at 271 pounds. I'm pre-diabetic. I've had high blood pressure (controlled with meds) for at least 4 years now. Low HDL is hereditary and I have that. Together, this creates the trifecta of health, metabolic syndrome.

Two years ago, at my annual physical, my doc asked me if I've ever considered bariatric surgery. I asked for a referral. And didn't return the requisite questionaire to begin the consult process. Over the last two years, I requested two other referrals to the program. I'm not sure what changed this year, but for the fourth time, this June, I requested the consult. I returned the questionaire and quickly was scheduled for my consult. I was screened by a surgical intern at UC Davis Med Center and he suggested I was a candidate for a vertical sleeve based on my lifestyle. Then, later that day, I met with Dr. Ali, head of the Bariatric program at UCD. He looked me in the eye and told me he didn't get to say this to everyone, but I was an ideal candidate for RNY.

I've been in shock since then, coming to grips with how overweight I've become, as well as the extreme measures I'm considering to overcome this. Can I adhere to the program to insure my success? I want to be here for my kids, my wife, simply to enjoy my life. I've gone through some of the testing required with some still to go. I'm not sure which procedure I will have. As each day passes though, I become more certain that I must succeed.