As May 28, 2013 approaches, the 9th anniversary of my lap band surgery, I find myself becoming reflective. I am looking back on how my life has changed and would like to share some of this today, hoping you find it as interesting as I do.
Let’s start with the basics:
Food:
- Prior to 5/28/04 eating light meant I turned the light on over the dining room table.
- After 5/28/04 eating light means choosing to stay within a 1200-1500 calorie range that includes 80 - 100 grams of protein.
Water
- Prior to 5/28/04 water was something I washed with, or drank ONLY if nothing else was available.
After 5/28/04 water became a daily essential. My body wants at least 64 ounces per day to be happy.
Exercise
- Prior to 5/28/04 exercise was what I did if I left the remote on the table in the other room.
- After 5/28/04 exercise means raising my heart rate and working aerobically each day AND incorporating strength training at least 3 times weekly.
Clothing
Prior to 5/28/04 clothing was something I was forced to get to cover my body, whether I wanted to or not. Shopping for it was difficult and often humiliating.- After 5/28/04 clothing became something I had fun shopping for, enjoyed wearing, and learned what fit, looked, and felt good. It became an adventure to “find” something specific I wanted knowing that I would eventually be successful in my endeavors.
Life
Prior to 5/28/04 my life was spiraling downward. It was getting more and more difficult to get around and I spent most of my days in one of three chairs - office, dining room table, or living room.- After 5/28/04 my life began expanding and just keeps growing in depth and breadth. What do I mean by this? I am no longer restricted by my physical size, I can move freely through this world, and I am no longer taking medications for life threatening co-morbidities. I have a life. I can shop, travel, share with others. I can hike, bike, swim, scuba dive, and walk through amusement parks with freedom. I can plan a future rather than wonder if I will have one.
Just a few minor changes in what my reality has become since having surgery, shedding 250 pounds and learning what I am capable of.
How about you? What is different today since you have had your weight loss surgery?