I've had several followers email recently asking for an update. When I saw the date of my last post, I could not believe it had been so long! I started this blog as a means of accountability. I promised the good, bad and ugly of my journey, and it appears as though I bailed amidst frustration. Overall, I feel like I've done well. So, my absence has been more about a busy life lately than anything else.
I am happy to report that I'm down to 226. So, that's 26 pounds lost in 5 months. I'll have my 6 month check up on September 24th. That's about 4 weeks away, and my goal is to be below 220! I want that more than just about anything right now. The doc has been pleased enough with my progress, saying 1 to 1.5 pounds per week is typical. If I average my loss over the 5 months, I'm on target. But, I haven't actually lost 1-1.5 pounds each week. Some weeks are better than others, but it's shaken out in the wash I guess.
I had my 3rd fill last week. At this point, I have 3 cc's of saline in my band. That sounds like alot, but a tiny medicine cup holds like 30 something cc's. Anyhow, I've FINALLY got enough restriction that I can really tell a difference. With the 2 other fills, I could eat just about anything without a bit of trouble as long as I chewed well. With this last fill, I'm staying fuller longer, I can't eat nearly as much, and I was sick for the first time over something I ate. I've read all about lapband patients vomiting after eating certain foods. This past weekend, I quickly ate a few bites of tuna and chased it with sugar free purple kool-aid. Not a good idea, and this sounds crazy, but I was relieved. Finally, I've got enough restriction to make a difference. I'll spare you the details but will say I've never experienced such pain.
Below are pictures of things that weigh 26 pounds. I've gone from a size 24 to an 18/20 in pants and a 3x to a 1-2x in shirts. It hasn't been easy, and it's not a fast loss, but it's working. I'm taking it a day at a time, would do it again, and would recommend it to anyone.

Starting Weight: 252 lbs
Today's Weight: 226 lbs
Surgery Date: March 17