Big Announcement!

O.K. ... I'm going to let you in on a really, big, private, personal announcement. Eeeeek ... I just don't know how to say this, so I'll just say it. I'm scheduled to have gastric by-pass surgery on June 24th! I'm soooo excited and scared at the same time. I've been wanting this surgery for years. I've checked into the complications and logistics of the surgery and feel really good about having it done. The main reason I haven't had it done before now, is that my health insurance didn't cover it. We switched insurances to my husbands at the first of the year and his covers the surgery 100%. The surgeon just called a few minutes ago with the news and the date of surgery.

I've been over-weight for years and have struggled with my yo-yo dieting. In order to maintain my weight I have to diet. And if I don't diet, I gain. If I'd just stay the same weight, heavy, I wouldn't be so concerned. But I continually add more weight and my health is being jeopardized. So, I'm going to be taking you on a personal in-site journey of my battle of the bulge. I'll post before pictures, during pictures, and after pictures along my journey. I know that it's not an easy road and I'm sure I'll have some sick days, but I'm willing to take the road to change my life-style. So ... wish me luck, and pray for me. I'll need your prayers!

I spent 4 hours at the ball park Saturday watching my oldest grandson play ball. I'm not braggin' but he REALLY is the best player on the team. He's only in 8th grade. I'm hopin' he'll be a professional player someday and support his old retired granny! I don't know too much about the game, but I sure had a good time visiting my girls!

The recipe book is coming along nicely. I still need more recipes, so calling all recipes ... let your friends know and get those recipes to me so I can get them in the book. I've received some stellar ones that I can't wait to try! I'll have to try them before my surgery because I understand I won't be eating much afterwards! Hey ... one nice thing about the surgery ... my food bill should go down and I shouldn't have to spend as much time cooking!

Got to stop and get to work on finishing my London itinerary. We leave for England on Wednesday. I'm sooo excited for the trip. I can't wait. We're taking the laptop so I should be able to post pics and updates about our trip.

Happy Monday!

16 comments:

Anonymous said...

Linda Congratulations. Being heavy has never been fun, I haven't been to the beach since I was 12, and dread ever going to Hawaii! Now, that I am nearing my late fifties, I see what it has done to my health as well. God bless you and keep you safe and healthy during this new phase in your life. I know you will do great and be an inspiration to us in blogland! Have a great trip too!!!!!

Up All Night Stamper said...

Well, GOOD FOR YOU! As someone who fights the battles of the bulgeS (PLURAL!) I know from where you speak. You are the perfect candidate for this, what with your sunny outlook and can-do mode.

So now the question is, are ya gonna EAT your way through England? Thank GOD above you aren't going to Italy or France! LOL!

Good on ya, love, you GO!

Charlene said...

I am sending you hugs before your surgery! I'm so proud of you! Another blessing from being laid off...now you have the time to recuperate.

Cula said...

My Mom had a gastric bypass 10 years ago. My whole life she struggled with her weight. Before her surgeryshe was 500lbs. now she's down to 280. It's not quite where she wants to be but it's made a huge difference in her life. Good Luck!

Evelyn said...

Wishing you the best of success with your upcoming surgery. My sister just had the surgery done the end of March and she is doing great. My husband and I both have serious weight issues, and we have been doing nutrisystem. So far we are both losing weight and motivated to stay on it. It is a lifelong battle and I still see how I could so easily gain back every pound I have lost plus more. Looking forward to sharing in your journey.

My Secret Life in Lilly said...

Hey Linda,
Yea for YOU! I know of a few people who have had this done with amazing results! They all say stick to the new lifestyle and you'll be fine! I will pray for a quick recovery, peace with your new lifestyle, and a skilled dr. to see you thru this!

Lindsey said...

All I can say is that it's a sad, sad day when I have to learn of this via your blog. Just teasing, Mom! I'm happy for you!

brooks1986 said...

Hi Linda,
My mom is having gastric by-pass surgery on June 16th so I know how you're feeling. I'll be thinking of you and sending healing prayers your way. Thank you for your contagious and optimistic inspiration.

Lisa Bohler said...

Hi Linda!
I'm three years post-op. I had laproscopic gastric by-pass surgery in December of '05 and have successfully kept off 130 lbs and maintain a weight between 160-168 pounds. It's NOT easy but if you follow drs orders and follow the rules and exercise, you will be successful. One thing, my dh had it done, too, and although he's kept quite a bit off, more would have stayed off if he had followed the "no eating and drinking at the same time rule." LMK if you have ANY questions from an experienced person! I'm on vacation and have limited computer time until next week but I'd love to answer any questions! Lisa

Amy said...

Congratulations! Accepting the risks and making the decision is the biggest step. I did it five years ago and I don't regret it for a minute. Do be prepared as it will embark you on an emotional journey but if you are prepared to take it - it is so worth it in the end. Follow your doctor's orders and you will do well.

Unknown said...

Hi Linda, Wishing all the best for your surgery and a speeedy recovery. Met you last year at the Brisbane convention dinner.
We were the lucky table to have your fantatic self seated with us. What sort of recipes are you looking for??? Do we just post the recipes on your blog site??? Posted Shannon a photo taken of you with our table. Hope that brings back memories. We all missed you this year in Canberra. cheers Julie

Terry Molineux said...

Oh Linda....good luck with the surgery I will say a prayer for you that it turns out to be what you really wanted. My girlfriend had hers done 1 1/2 yrs ago and she lost 85 lbs.... when we eat together she makes me feel like a pig because she eats maybe four forks full of food and says....I'm stuffed!

Cannot wait to see how you turn out...My girlfriend looks terrific.

Have a fantastic time on your trip and would love to see some pictures.

Scrapbook Zone said...

Linda,

congrats on this decision. I had this surgery 2 years ago and I have lost 128 lbs so far (I weighed 297 lbs before I started looking into this surgery) I did the research and I am so glad I went this way. Yes you will have to change the way you eat (and how much) but it is the best life changing decision I have ever made. I look at it this way I saved my life and now I will be around to see my children grow up.

Good luck will be praying for you on this day!! keep in touch.

Annette said...

Wishing you a safe trip to London - Enjoy enjoy and take lots of photos to share.
Congratulations - Praying for you - before during and after our surgery. I am sure it was not an easy decision but a wise one it seems. I have the same struggles and know what you are talking about. I look forward to following your progress.
Hugs and Prayers ~
Annette

Mommy Shar said...

Hi Linda- It's Sharie former SAM co-worker of yours.

Wow... I can't begin to tell you how thrilled I am for you. I too had gastric bypass 8 years ago a month shy of my 21st birthday. It has changed my life. I would love to share with you my story, give you some porters and just chat if you are up for it. If so please shoot me an e-mail at playfulprecious@hotmail.com

Hope to chat with you soon. Sharie

liz said...

Hi Linda,
My mom had this surgery 2 summers ago. Yes, she has some eating issues here and there, but she is doing great overall and looks incredible. Back in the beginning, before the surgery, my mom chose me to be her support person. It has been quite a journey and one she very glad she began. I wish you the best.