One week from surgery * post op visit today *

One week on liquid diet hasn't been the easiest thing.  I struggled this week with energy.
I continued to workout and that wasn't easy with only 500- 600 calories per day.
I am proud to say that I've lost 17 lbs and 5.5 inches in 20 days.  I would like to lose 7 more pounds before Tuesday, July 29th surgery.  I am working hard at it!!!
The doctor was so helpful and answered ALL my concerns and questions.
I have two more appointments ( maybe one additional).  Tomorrow is my physical from my physician to clear me for surgery.  He may require me to have an echocardiogram so we'll see after my 2 pm doctor appointment.
Wednesday I am going grocery shopping with my dietitian for one hour.  I know it will be worth the $15.
Our kettle corn business is really busy this week. We have 4 concerts so that will keep things off my mind.
My son is coming home for a visit and concert on Wednesday I can't wait to see him it's been way to long..since Christmas.
Thanks again for your support and I will have pictures and my weight before surgery next Monday/Tuesday.
Jana

2 weeks before surgery

Thank you for reading my blog.  I hope you will follow me through my new journey.

I can't believe I am blessed to have this surgery 2 weeks from today.  I am writing this blog so my friends and family can see my journey for a healthier Jana.
I have been over weight for approx. half of my life.  I didn't start gaining my weight until late 20's early 30's.
As a child I was skinny.  Always having issues and in the hospital alot a young child.
I had children at a young age 19 and 22 so after child birth I was so upset I weighted 160 lbs.  What I wouldn't give to weigh that again ( oh, I will be that again one day soon). 
I dedicated my life to my husband and children.  Never taking the time to watch what I was eating or to even work out. Remember I never had weight issues growing up so working out was never a thought in my mind.

I even tried out for the biggest loser twice.  Once with a friend and another time all alone.  They didn't pick me.  I was so disappointed I told myself "I will show them".  I lost 45-50 lbs and 28+ inches.  Again the weight slowly came back.

I don't have any health issues besides being over weight.  No pills- nothing. 
My Gynecology Dr. Bruce Taylor (who I've been seeing for 27+ years) sat me down and for the 3rd time gave me information on weight loss. 

I wasn't  unable to change health insurance because of my BMI.  Insurance rates were sky high for me due to being over weight.  When Obama changed things I was then able to change insurance (an extra $300 a month) to a plan that would cover my surgery ($6,300 deduct) + all co pays (20 dr. visits ).
I thought it's now or never Jana.  My husband Mike is very supportive and said let's do it no matter what the cost.  

I went to my first consultation in February and group meeting.  My insurance became effective April 1st.
The appointments began.  To date I ended up with 20 appointments.  
At first I was so frustrated and discouraged but I realized I picked the #6 Bariatric Clinic in the U.S.
I can see why.

Fast forwarding to 2 weeks before my surgery:  my Dr. requires 2 weeks of clear liquids prior to surgery to help shrink the liver.  You can have some veggies, jello, plain salads, and up to 4 protein shakes a day.
I was really nervous about starving before surgery so I decided to start mine July 1st.  I started eating only 1 meal a day and two protein shakes.  So far I've lost 13 lbs and 3.5 inches.  My goal is to lose 12-15 more pounds prior to surgery on 7/29/14.
I will have before pictures up prior to surgery.  
This blog will keep me on track and inform my friends and family on how I am doing.  Please keep me in your thoughts and prayers during this New Journey.  I also wanted to mention my husband Mike is working out and eating less and trying to lose weight with me.  He has attended several meetings and is so supportive.  I am blessed to have him in my life and my boys.  My youngest son Dustin isn't to happy about mom having the surgery (mainly worried about me) but they both want a healthier mom.  I owe it to my family and I'm going to try my VERY best to do it.
Regards,
Shrinky Vinke
a.k.a ( Jana )