Six of our patients share their journey through weight loss surgery and the lessons they have learned. Those who attended our November support group this month also made this even a memorable one, as many stories were shared about participating in their first race. The Walk from Obesity, 5K’s, one was a half marathon! If you missed out this year, we’re planning next year’s even to be even bigger and better (if that’s even possible, I promise it really was that good!)

Before I post the handout that was available Wednesday night, I want to post about the next combined event. This is scheduled for March and will be the Makeover Event; A New Year, a New You. We are excited for this event, as it was a fun event last year. I will keep everyone updated with more details on our website homepage and our Facebook page.

Lessons Learned

Aimee learned…

Build a support system. This should include people who are a part of your daily life; family, friends, and co-workers.

Don’t get stuck in a rut. It may become easy to stick with a few choice foods that you tolerate well. Learn to expand and try new (on plan) items. Change it up! You’ll start dreading meals or your exercise routine if it’s the same thing you’ve been doing.

Aimee W.
Duodenal Switch 2011
Blog: www.watersweight.blogspot.com
E-mail: waterswife@gmail.com

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Sean learned…

Break old habits. The magical 18-24-month weight loss journey is the perfect time to break old habits and form new ones. Stop looking to replace popcorn, fudgesicles, or other foods that you loved pre-surgery. That was the foods that got you here. Now is the time to learn to eat different, better foods.

Learn how to deal with stress differently. Habits are cycles of behavior that only go away when you replace them with something else. Finding a hobby (such as exercise), other than eating, that allows you to effectively deal with your stress is important.

Sean J.
Gastric Bypass 2007
Blog: www.seanstransformation.blogspot.com
E-mail: sean_joyc@yahoo.com

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Joe learned…

Follow the program. Don’t rationalize, don’t cheat (you’ve been doing that your whole life)! Be psychologically committed. Your change is not temporary.

Find new ways to enjoy food. Research new recipes. I can still enjoy food, I just do it differently now, and in smaller portions, but food is still allowed to by yummy.

Joe C.
Gastric Band 2010
Blog: www.thevoiceofjoe.blogspot.com

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Tyson learned…

Build an environment where you can succeed. Talk to everyone who plays a significant role in your life. Make sure they are prepared to make a change with you. No matter what, you’re going to experience some frustration about food that you’ll have to own and deal with, but if you can get your friends and family aligned with you and your lifestyle change, that frustration will be so much more manageable.

Commit to changing your relationship with food forever. You have to be mentally prepared to continue your diet when cravings return. If you start cheating, it will only trigger more cravings, which is a slippery slope. To help prevent this, try to find new low-carb, high protein recipes and foods that will help you keep your meals interesting.

Tyson W.
Duodenal Switch 2011
E-mail: Tyson@myheck.net

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Chris learned…

Get into a routine of daily exercise. Appreciate what you can do now, don’t overwhelm yourself with what others are doing. Set goals for yourself and enjoy what your body can do for you.

Weight loss surgery is just a tool. You hear RMAP say that, but it really is just a tool in weight control, not a cure. Listen to your surgeon and staff, they can be a huge part of your support system, where you can ask questions or find advice.

Chris S.
Gastric Bypass 2011
E-mail: benevations@gmail.com

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Jeanette learned…

Enjoy the compliments. They will come and practice receiving them with grateful acknowledgment—don’t make light of your accomplishment. You’ve worked hard to get where you are today.

This is my journey. No matter how many people are supporting you, you are the one taking each step of your journey. Keep a journal about your journey. I found inspirational books and quotes really helpful. They helped me stay focused and committed.

Jeanette M.
Gastric Bypass 2011
Blog: www.dollygrandma-weightlossjourney.blogspot.com
E-mail: dollygrandma6@hotmail.com

Thank you to our panel who made this support group a great learning and inspiring event, along with those in attendance who shared their story. If you are interested in sharing your story, please contact Jessica at jessica@rmapinc.com.

Links to similar articles:
Advice from Weight Loss Surgery Patients – Part 1
Advice from Weight Loss Surgery Patients – Part 2
Patient Goals Reached Since Weight Loss Surgery
RMAP Patient Goal Achievements

 

www.RMAP.com
Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians
801-268-3800
1160 East 3900 South, Suite 4100
SLC, UT 84124