Getting back on track . . .

les527 · 02-22-2008, 12:30 PM

I was banded on October 2, and I was a daily visitor to this site for the first six weeks.

I had my first fill in mid-November, and I was scheduled for my second fill on January 3. Due to me having a sinus infection and my 4 1/2 year old son being in the hospital, I had to cancel my appointment. On January 7, my son, Sammy, passed away due to acute respiratory distress syndrome, sepsis, and disseminated intravascular coagulation.

My son was born with the odds already stacked against him from a congenital brain malformation, but he defied those odds many, many times. We were told that he would be stillborn or wouldn't live long after his birth, yet he lived nearly 5 years! And, we made every single one of those days count, and we created many wonderful memories with him that carries us through our grief.

This past Monday, I had my first appointment since that first fill in November. The good news is that I've gained only 4 pounds. If I didn't have the band, I'm sure that I would have gained much more than that given the situation.

I had a small fill on Monday, and I'm back on track again; however, I'm having trouble because I just don't feel like eating. My doctor wanted me on clear liquids for 24 hours and then full liquids for the next 48. I've passed that stage, so I can begin eating a normal diet again; however, I'm not hungry and I just don't feel like eating.

In the past, food was my comfort during stressful times. I've never truly experienced the grieving process in the way that I am now, and I'm quite surprised by the lack of hunger. I've never battled depression before, so I'm wondering if that's playing a bigger part in this.

I think I'll head out to the grocery store and pick up some fresh fruit and vegetables. I'm thinking that might give me a little pick me up and give me some healthy choices. I can't live on jello, SF pudding cups and chicken broth forever.

On a more uplifting note, my husband and I decided to get a Nintendo Wii system. I always thought video games were a waste of time, but as soon as I realized the potential for activity and exercise while playing the games, I could see how the Wii might help me in my weight loss. Anyone tried the kickboxing or dance games?

Leslie

sisterc · 02-22-2008, 12:55 PM

Hello Leslie,

I just had to say hello to you! I read your post and was so moved by it. I hope you and your family are well and healing from your loss.

I hope you are now back on track and eating well again! Please do this for yourself you deserve it. This year is your year to make the difference in your life.

I wish you and your family well and good health!

Carrie

Christal · 02-22-2008, 01:06 PM

Hi, there! I am sorry to hear about your loss!
I think it is normal not to feel hungry. If I am stressed I eat, but I noticed when it is past stress, greiving or something like that I do not feel like eating. Just make sure you get protein, drink some shakes and take your vitamins!
Take care!

mss · 02-28-2008, 07:49 AM

I wanted to add my support and warm wishes to you. Grief can affect everyone differently and you can often experience a change in eating habits, as well as lack of energy, lack of motivation, wanting to avoid people etc. It may be helpful for you to go and have a chat to your doctor and see if there is a counselling service you can link in with to get some extra support at this time.

I haven't tried any of the Wii games but they look like great fun, especially the dancing one.

yankeerobin · 02-28-2008, 04:04 PM

I'm so sorry for your loss. I think you're very brave to take on the challenges of weight loss and grieving at the same time. Perhaps the weight loss challenge will help focus your attention to exercise and trying to eat healthy, and maybe distract you a bit from your horrible loss.
I have a feeling depression is certainly playing a role in your lack of appetite. I'm just so sorry for you. Take care of yourself.