Cellar Dwellers - Live and in Concert

Yesterday the "Cellar Dwellers" played at the Stratford Garlic Festival. We played last year and I had a good time. This year I enjoyed it all the more knowing that I took up much less space on stage. I felt more confident and was able to "get into it" a little more. In fact, you could say it was intense - I mean "in tent" (sorry - pun addiction - no cure). There were some "paparazzi" around so I will post pictures once I track them down. Also, we had some new Cellar Dweller pictures taken by our private photographer, Lil (Sam's wife) in their cellar where we practice.

I had a blast yesterday. Can't wait for our next "gig" (or whatever real musicians call it...)

David

"Before and After" Pictures

This before picture, taken in Rome in July, 2006, on our 25th wedding anniversary, shows me at somewhere between 270 and 280 pounds.

The second pictures is me at 189 pounds - September 4th, 2009.

The shirt I am wearing has an "S" on the label for size. Okay, it is a big Capital S, but it is an S none-the-less.
David

In My Spare Time...

Here is a link to the write-up for the upcoming Garlic Festival in Stratford. I am in the middle (standing) - all 280 plus pre WLS pounds trying to hide behind my guitar. (I can hide much better at 195 pounds!)

http://www.stratfordgarlicfestival.com/presenters.html
(You will need to scroll down a bit.)

I am hoping that our group photographer (Sam's wife) will take another picture soon - one that does not require a wide angle lens, now that I "dwell" in less space...

Anyway, if you love garlic, this is quite the event. As for the musical entertainment - we are worth every cent they pay us - and we perform for free!

David
Out of the cellar and not quite ready to quit his day job for rock'n roll...

Pictures Tell the Story

Time for Show and Tell: The top picture was taken on board the Galaxy Cruise ship while docked in Athens on our 25th anniversary - July 31, 2006. I was around 280 pounds.






The next picture was June 11, 2008 at my son's graduation from Police Foundations at Algonquin College in Ottawa. (He graduates from Carlton University next; I will take up much less room in that photo.) I was still flirting with 280 pounds.







This picture was taken July 6th of 2009. The only thing that is big on me now is my smile. At this point I was 208 pounds. As I write this (August 14th) I am 196 pounds.


A picture is worth a thousand words!

Anniversary Dinner - Success!

Yesterday Lady Ruth and I celebrated 27 years of happy marriage (although Ruth said it seemed like more...a good thing, I think...)

Anyway, we went to one of our favourite places - the Queen's Landing Inn in Niagara on the Lake, Ontario. (Close to Queenston where Canada thumped the Americans in 1812 - sorry - had to get it in...) The room was lovely and the "special package" included a three course meal. A three course meal? I only have a 1/4 course stomache!

Seated in the semi-circular restaurant, the floor to ceiling glass allowed quite a view of the marina and the Niagara River as it flows into Lake Ontario. The American fort was also visible on the hill across the river. But I was worried about what to order and how I was going to handle the situation. I wanted our anniversary dinner to be special and not focused on my inner "re-tooling" that is not yet four months old; I was not about to whip out my Barix Gastric Bypass card in such a setting. Ruth helped me quite a bit and I decided that I would order what was, or would become liquid at body temperature. I would be selective about what I ate during each course and not worry about having dessert - course three.

After a glass of a local Riesling I started with a tomato sorbet that came with red orange and yellow tomotaos as well. The sorbert was no problem and I enjoyed the softer parts of the tomato, taking my time, putting the fork down, and chewing, chewing chewing until there wasn't much left to chew.

Course two I opted for the chicken. The red wine sauce and the fresh local vegetables were delightful. (Once again, small bites, chew, wait...) I was able to have about half the chicken and most of the beans, mushrooms and other vegetable as well. I left most of the potato as it is a starchy filler.

Course three offered three small scoops of passionfruit, lemon and mango sorbet on a bed of fresh cut strawberries. I had about 2/3 of the sorbet and a strawberry or two.

The result? I feel I ate sufficiently "normally" and chose well from the menu. I now know that by taking my time (two hour gourmet meal), chewing really well, and selecting foods carefully, I can enjoy a "real" meal. I came away satisfied, not stuffed, and very pleased with my "normalcy" - when it comes to eating anyway.

So why am I writing all this description? Is it to torture you with a vivid description of food? No, just the opposite. I write to share a hurdle that I have overcome - one that maybe some of you have worried about. Maybe the way I handled it will shed some light for you and give you hope that you can go out into the world and enjoy the savoury delights that food has to offer.

While food has been my enemy in past, I have made peace with it and embrace it - much the same way as Americans and Canadians have put aside differences from another lifetime and enjoy a peaceful co-existence. It is possible - even necessary - that we acknowledge our past difficulties, and embrace the opportunities that the present and the future hold.

David

Some Collect Rocks - I Prefer Mile"stones"

Hello Everyone:
School was out last week and this week I am tying up loose ends. It is amazing what you can get done when there are 450 fewer people in the school every day!

I will be taking tomorrow off (Canada Day) to go to the Rogers Centre in Toronto and sell 50-50 tickets to raise money for the "Jays Care Foundation" for children and the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame in St. Marys (just 20 minutes from Stratford). There are fireworks after. Hope the Jays have "spark" in their bats!

I have a couple of "milestones" to share just before my three-month
"surgi-versary":

Milestone #1
I have been thinking about teaching university for a while now, but had not done anything about it before. Maybe it is my increased confidence since surgery, but I applied for a part time faculty teaching position at Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo, Ontario. It would be one night per week to instruct potential teachers in "Teaching Methods for Geography, History and Social Studies, Grades 4-8"; it therefore would not interfere with being a principal by day. The interview last week went well and I am "short-listed" for the position. I will find out for sure next week. Had I still been my old "heavy" self, I know would not have gone for this opportunity. Now? I am just honoured to be seriously considered. If I don't get it this time I will try again. I am excited at the prospect of entering into a new journey in my educational career. It will happen - if not now, then soon.

Milestone #2
60 pounds gone! I am not sure I could lift something 60 pounds, yet I carried this around daily! No wonder I was winded easily, had bad knees, and much lower self esteem. Now? It's like I can fly!

David
(Who is coming out of the basement as the "Cellar Dwellers" are providing music at our church this Sunday!)

Things Not to Do the Day After An Endoscopy

Just for you I have done the "Endoscopy Torture Test". I have done this selflessly for you so that you do not make the same mistakes:

Do not, upon finding cauliflower and broccoli salad left over from the weekend, think, "I think it's still good. I'll take that for lunch."

Even if it is your birthday, and you think, "One beer couldn't hurt when we go out for dinner - I can handle fluids and light beer is a light fluid," you would be making a highly erroneous assumption.

No need to thank me. Just know that cauliflower and broccoli are not the wisest choice right after an endoscopy - fresh or even somewhat "vintage". It is hard to digest and the creamy mixture it is in will make your tummy protest.

Beer burns. There is no other word for it. When I referred to it as a "light fluid" I should have said "Lighter Fluid". I had about an ounce and left the rest in favour of a fire extinguisher. I have since been reminded that 6 months before alcohol is best. I will remember thanks to "aversion therapy".

So, am I another year older? Yes. Another year wiser? The jury is out, and it's not looking good...

David

Pipe Dreams

In May I had my first endoscopy to fix my stricture - the "pipe" just passed the stoma was down to 2mm. Four weeks later I was back for another endoscopy as I was having trouble keeping solid food down.

Today was my birthday and my family wanted to take me out for dinner. It was at a nice English pub style restaurant downtown that has long been a favourite. I treated myself to a light beer and a quiche.

One day after an endoscopy I don't think I was healed enough. I did not have more than two ounces of beer and none of the food. (I have it in the fridge for future reference.) It appears that I need to stick with gentler food and drink for now. (I am wondering if the little bit of food I had earlier in the day is "stuck". That is what it feels like.)

I an just sitting and taking it easy - hoping this evening's baseball game will provide enough of a distraction from the discomfort. I think a chat with the dietitian at Barix is in order. This isn't fun anymore. My "pipe dream" is to have a "pipe" that allows me to swallow real food!

I am sure this will get better. I just need to work through it. In the meantime I am staying close to the "porcelain phone"- just in case I need to make a "call"...

Hey Big Spender!

It's official. I am a cheap date. I can't drink beer and the quiche/ salad combo I had at Tango's Coffee Bistro (in beautiful downtown Stratford) lasted three meals. My wife says I am now officially a "cheap date" (but I am NOT easy - not what Ruth says...)

Anyway, the waitress wondered if something was wrong as I delicately nibbled the "smaller half" of the quiche, I assured her all was fine and asked for a take-out box. This was after her ladyship polished off prime rib!

While I may have lost a lot of waistline, the looks I get at restaurants from waitresses indicate I have gained another two heads!

Oh well. The price we pay for looking sooooo good!

The Big 4-0

No, I am not talking about age - I hit that one over a decade ago. (I know, I look much younger...right?)

The 4-0 to which I am referring is the number of pounds of fat cells that have permanently "left the building".

I thought I would have enough pants purchased "on the way up" to last me until the end of the school year. I am finding that I may need to get a couple as every one of my dress pants are greatly dependent on the belt doing its job.

Not that I am complaining...

Successful Endoscopy

I am back from the land of Barix where the great wizard corrected my gizzard!

The intestine just past the stoma was down to 2mm (around 1/16th of an inch for you non-metric types). Dr. Schram used a balloon to inflate this area to 1.6 cm (or an inch). Fortunately he did not use a helium balloon so I do not sound like Alvin the Chipmunk.

On the way home I had a Tim Horton's Apple Juice and, a little later, a yogurt cup. They slid down like a fireman on a pole (ladies, try not to get too excited by that image...yes, I have seen those calendars...)

I may need to have a second endoscopy in a month as mine was so severe, but time will tell. In the meantime, I am to start "soft foods" as of 8pm tonight. Not a big deal, right? It is if you never even were successful with puree! By next Tuesday I am to start to introduce full foods. (I take my steak "medium".)

Advice to others having trouble keeping food down: CALL BARIX. This procedure is not a big deal to do, but a big deal in the results department.

I am off in search of real, yet soft, food (part of the "hunting and gathering instinct" from prehistoric times, I suppose...)

David

I'm Really "Scrambled" (Puns Included. Read at Own Risk)

This morning I returned to work which started at a breakfast meeting with a colleague before a weekly System Leader's Council at the Avon Maitland District School Board in beautiful downtown Seaforth, Ontario. (Population of about 3500 - half way between Stratford and Goderich - never mind...you can't get there from here anyway...) I ordered two scrambled eggs and was "full" after only eating a quarter of the plate - just half a scrambled egg. That's it. I am not "yolking". It was a "shell-of-a" small amount. I made it through the three hour meeting sipping on a half coffee. (The other half was non-identifiable - something close to "church" coffee, I think.) I made it three quarters of the way back to my school in Stratford before I had to pull "over-easy" to the side of a lovely country road and share my protein-rich breakfast with the gravel and weeds.

Yes, I still went to work. I am tired of being off and wanted to be back in the action. It was a good day - as long as I didn't try to eat anything.

Soooooo...I decided I better call Barix as I should be able to handle more food with less violation of the law of gravity. They want me back to Detroit tomorrow morning for an endoscopy - for real this time. (Last time I was too soon out of surgery - this will be exactly five weeks to the day.)

The staff at my school and my School Superintendent have been wonderful. I feel badly about all the uncertainty of my return. (Each time I try to come back, I end up being "off" again.) I am indeed fortunate to have such a great work environment.

I am confident that this will put an end to these downs and up-chucks.

(I did put a disclaimer about the humour in the subject line...you were warned...)

Mothers' Day

We just had most of my side of the "clan" down today. Most ate Chinese Food; I had a tiny bit of rice and a bit of pork (after researching nutrition labels on the web). Everything went down - a tad uncomfortable for a while, but tolerable. I am breaking new ground with "real" food now.

It is getting to be challenging doing my measurements. The middle and hip measurements are hard to find as my body shape is changing. I seem to be losing inches around the chest and neck - as well as the thighs. I am getting some slightly larger measurements around the middle, and the same at the hips. It is as though the remaining fat is gathering in one place for a farewell party.

Yet the real measurement has been yesterday's discovery that I can now fit comfortably into pants TWO sizes down. I have had to recall my smaller belt into active service and retire the belt from the evil "Big and Tall" store. (It did up, but just hung down at the front - looking rather deflated from no longer having purpose.)

I also have a number of new shirts from Christmas that just fit now. It is like Christmas in May as I discover new "dimensions".

After last week's hiccup (an unwelcome virus that deprived me of ny voice snd affected my abiity to keep my food down I am ready and raring to head back to school tomorrow. All systems are go.

Week Three - Ruth and Her Measuring Tape

Ruth must have squeezed the measuring tape a little tighter - it took 2.75 fewer inches this week - once again the chest and abdomen, with an assist from the neck (now 16") I have lost 13" of circumference.

Ruth wants to see if something else is getting bigger (...biceps...clean your minds!).

No Longer Violating the Law of Gravity...

After a couple of days of having food do a U-Turn and go back from whence it came, I am finally keeping fluids down. After a lovely 3 1/2 hour "cruise" down to Ypsilanti for a 30-minute appointment I am back and feeling much better.

It turns out I just have some temporary inflammation. (I would like to make some "inflammatory" remarks about the 7 hour drive vs the 30-minute appointment, but that would be whining, and "whine" isn't on my list of things I can have yet.)

I had to have nothing from midnight on in case they had to an endoscopy - to open up the intestine just after the "pouch". Getting fluids and protein back into my dissipating diaphragm has given me new energy.

Still, I am glad I went as I felt much more assured and was able to pick up some high protein supplements that are clear and not milk-based. You do need to dilute with water or you will grow hair where it has never grown before. Just trust me on that...

Now, where is my razor?

Today Was Different

Today I found that my first protein drink of the day was not going down quite as quickly, so I packed it in my briefcase and headed of to school. By 7:30 the pain was starting to get intense and by 7:50 what little protein I had taken in was back up and out. The pain continued to ramp up; my wife took me to the hospital, but not before I had redecorated the floor mat in the Buick. (Where did this all come from if I only had 2 1/2 ounces?) I demonstrated my condition yet again in front of the nurse, who was amazingly quick with the tray. After this fourth "fountain of intestinal fortitude" I started to notice that the pain was subsiding.

It appears that I may have an ulcer, or stricture, or both. I have to try medicine tomorrow, if I can get our Canadian doctor to write a prescription really quickly. If things don't improve, then I am off to Ypsilanti for Friday.

Sorry to "bring this up". Hope you weren't eating or anything...

Week 2 Measurements

The scale now reads 254 - yes, I have both feet on the scale, and no, I am not desperately trying to take pressure off the scale by leaning on the counter - not that anyone would actually do that...

I am down another 4 inches for a total of 10.75 inches. My mid-section and hips account for most of this.

One more thing: Ruth is having waaaaay too much fun with the tape measure....

Two Week Check Today

It is 5:40 am and I am about to leave for Michigan - about 3 1/2 hours' drive from Stratford, Ontaio. I have an appintment with Dr. Schram at 10:15. I hope to get the green light for work today - though I may start back part time only. I weighed in at 255 on my scale this morning.

My before surgery weight was 272. I went up to 285 in hospital, but was down to 280 on our digital scale at home the day I was released. This means 17 "original" pounds are now gone.

Better go now; I've got my passport, my water, my protein drinks...

David

And the Number is...

After one week I have lost 6.75 inches - mostly from my hips and thighs, but followed closely by chest and middle. My pants will confirm the loss as they leave for "Goodwill"... (Whoo Hoo!)

Each year I take in a bunch of Blue Jays baseball games at the Rogers Centre in Toronto with my father and a couple of my buddies from Stratford (one is another of the "Cellar Dwellers"). Our first game is May 3rd and I am looking forward to not having to squeeze my butt into the seat.

Play Ball!

Tonight I am picking up a vehicle to replace our second car. While this has nothing to do with weight loss, the fact that I traded in our "rounded" 2001 Malibu for a "sleeker" 2008 Pontiac G6 almost seems to parallel my own "body style" changes. Okay, that's a real reach and I may need therapy but the comparison is there (if you look really hard...)

One Week Since Hospital Release

Today I have been out of the hospital a week. I had a bit of a rough day yesterday - too much sorbitol and some other factors made for a very upset digestive system. I will spare the details...you don't want to know...trust me...

I feel much better today; I weighed in at 259 pounds - down 13 pounds of pre-surgery weight. I am officially down a size and all my clothes purchased at the "Big and Tall" store are packed up for Goodwill because I am never going to wear that size again. It was having to go to a specialty clothes store that thrust me into this journey in the first place. I can't believe how good I feel that I will be back shopping in a "regular" men's store again.

Tonight is "measurement time". My wife, Ruth, took a number of measurements to help me track my weight loss in another way. I have them all recorded on a spreadsheet (easy to do on my new Apple MacBook - love it!). Tonight the tape measure comes out. I will post the results next entry.

Easter Sunday

As you saw in my last post we had a big dinner at my sister's place. ("We" is a rather loose term as I had a protein shake and yogurt.) Afterwards we drove our daughter back to university (one hour) and then two hours home from there. While I didn't drive, I found myself sleeping the afternoon away today. I had to force myself to get up. When I did make it to the scales this evening it registered 266 - down 6 pounds from my hospital entry weight (before IV weight gain). This really works! Now if I can just stay awake...

Four Days After Surgery

Sometimes I have to look at my stitches to see if it really happened. That is how good I feel; yes the soreness is there sometimes - especially when I try to get up from bed. (I find that placing a hand on my abdomen and rolling on my side is better than trying to sit up - way better.)

I feel "normal" for the most part and usually have a good amount of energy. Sometimes I do "hit the wall" and an afternoon nap has become an important part of my routine! Other than that I am quite "with it" (no comments, please...).

I am also surprised about how easy it has been to swallow. I sometimes forget and take a larger sip of my protein drink and there is brief discomfort, but that is all. I called the Nutritionist, Dena, and asked if the liquid drains quickly from the new "pouch" or if I could be stretching it already. She confirmed that liquid does not stay long and that if I had gulped too much the stoma - the small opening - couldn't handle it and would send it back up "north". Good to know.

On the first day home I developed a tracking sheet for my protein, calories, and physical exercise. I am proud to say that I got in 89 grams of protein out of my recommended 90, as well as 2.9 km on the stationary bike. (The read-out said I also burned just over 100 calories.) I have also lost 12 out of the 13 pounds I gained in the hospital because of the fluids that were pumped in to me.

So it it "so far so good". Today we are going to a family Easter gathering. We weren't going to go as we all thought I would be needing recovery time. I am glad we can go and spend time together. As for eating, I told them not to be jealous as I sip my delicious "Cookies and Cream" protein drink while they settle for glazed ham...

Back Home from Surgery

I have just returned home from Barix
The surgery went rather well
Although I have noticed my middle
Is bloated and starting to swell

Yes I have just returned home from Barix
Where they practice a wonderous art
I look forward to becoming slimmer
But for now I just want to..lay down and rest

Twas the Night Before Surgery

Twas the night before surgery

And all through the place

Not a thing could be eaten

Not even a taste

The beef broth was boiling

The Apple Juice was chilled

In preparation for surgery

The tummy unfilled

When from my waistline

There arose such commotion

What was happening?

(I had a good notion!)

Off to the bathroom

I ran in a split

Thanks to the Dulcolax

I needed to...go really badly...

My wife heard me exclaim

O'er the roar of the fan

It will all soon "end" soon

And I'll be a slimmer man!

David (aka Cellar Dweller)

Preparing for Take-Off

It is less than a week until my roux-en-y gastric bypass. I have been very focused on "tying up loose ends" at work. I need to be more diligent about my pre-op "work" - breathing into the Respirex and reading my "Barix Bible" to ensure that I am ready to go.

I have been drinking the Matrix Protein drink ("Cookies and Cream" flavour - quite tasty) and have found that my cravings for carbs are but a distant memory already. I have also noticed that the waistline of my pants is a little "bigger" and the numbers on the scale are very gradually getting "smaller". I am pleased to see this kind of progress in the time since my PATS on March 24th. I look forward to even greater progress after my surgery on April 7th.

I really don't feel overly excited or overly anxious about the surgery itself. It is just like this is a normal thing to do. I wonder if it is because I have researched it well by reading and by talking - live or via internet or phone - with people who are success stories. It is just a fact in my life that the surgery will happen and that I will be successful.

One thing that has been a little awkward is the numerous times people have asked me "where" I am having the surgery. I find myself being evasive because they might want to know why I have to go to the US to have surgery. In time this won't matter; I just don't want a lot of questions right now.

The call with my surgery time is supposed to come tomorrow...once this "flight plan" is registered I will "taxi into position for take-off..."

PATS Today

Today I had numerous tests and questionnaires. In the end (not the location of the tests) I passed all tests with flying colours! (And I didn't even study!)

It is real now. Two weeks to go.

In the meantime I have my new Barix Bible to read and quite a few papers. Oh yes, there is that Respirex Contraption that threatens to turn me inside out... Now I know what everyone on the Barix site is refering to with "remember your breathing..." (I thought this was common sense. Now I get it. Boy, do I ever...wheeze, gasp...)

David

Lessons from Myrtle Beach

Lessons I learned in Myrtle Beach

1. It doesn't have to be warm and sunny to have a good time.

2. I still can hit a golf ball - even straight sometimes. I look forward to trying to beat my father at golf this summer (although that is not very likely - he is good!).

3. Shopping for exercise clothing is no longer "threatening" knowing I am two weeks from surgery. In fact, it is necessary - even encouraging.

4. My family is remains very supportive of my decision.

5. I am ready for the surgery. Bring it on!

Interesting Perspective

Tomorrow we are headed to South Carolina to visit my parents. I just checked the weather and found it will be about 50 - 65 F the whole time we are to be there. I was actually relieved that I could still wear a sweater to "hide" my bulk. I was actually worried about how I would look in lighter clothing! Silly. It just reinforces my decision to have the surgery at Barix. I can't wait for April 7th when my great opportunity begins.

Next year? Bring on the warm weather...

David

Southwestern Ontario - Group?

Hello Everyone:
The passing of our "Barix Buddy" Sheila has emphasized to me the need to support one another. Rusty (Sheila) was one who was always quick to offer support on-line. The response by everyone has been one of shock and grief.

While the on-line support that we all have is truly incredible it is important that we make contact in person from time to time. I am so glad I met so many - including Sheila - in London in January.

I live in Stratford, Ontario - sort of between Kitchener and London and about a half hour west of the 401. I have not thought out any grand plans at this point, but I am wondering if there are some people who want to get together - those who are waiting for surgery and those who are graduates. If there are a few, I offer my home (not in a cellar, by the way); if there are many I can arrange to rent the library at my school a block away, or a room at our church. I am posting this in both the before and after surgery conferences.

You can respond by reply or send me a private message. Once I hear from people I will select a date. If you have ideas of what we might do or discuss, I am open to that. The main thing is the personal support we can offer one another.

Cellar Dweller (David MacLennan)

"Never Bet on a Three-Legged Horse..."

Tips come in many forms. The one in the title is a bit of a "no-brainer"; I am really looking for some other, more useful tips. Many of you who follow this blog have now had the surgery. I need to plan for the changes I will face and would appreciate any input. Here are my questions:

1. How long was it before you felt ready to return to work/ normal life? Was time to get used to lifestyle changes part of your decision?

2. What is the biggest challenge after surgery and how did you manage it?

3. What do I drink/ eat? I am curious about the many products sold at the hospital What do you recommend? Are there products in Canada that you have found to be satisfying and tasty?

Thanks!

David

Need to Get in Gear

I have not had much to write about regarding my upcoming weight loss surgery.  It has been on my mind and I have been arranging my work priorities around my April 7th date.  I am really looking forward to getting this done as I haven't been able to get the weight off.  Maybe I am putting too much emphasis on the surgery as a viable means to lose the weight, but everything I hear and read from others just reinforces that this is the right decision.

I am thinking that I need to get started now.  I say this now, after I just devoured an A&W Burger Meal.  This is not my normal fare; I took the easy way out as my wife is on the way to Ottawa again to see her mother who just had a large portion of her stomach removed. (The doctors diagnosed a cancerous tumor this past Christmas.  She and I will be on similar "menus" it seems; I just wish that cancer was not the reason for her surgery.  She seems to be doing well for now.  We will remain positive.

Anyway, it appears that I must repent for my "burger boo-boo" tonight and sentence myself to a long ride on the stationary bike.  I have already decided that if I wish to watch television, I must do it while pedaling my butt - so to speak.  No time like the present...

David (From "Cellar Dweller" to "Basement Biker"...)

Coincidence? I Wonder...

Sometimes you just have to wonder...

Today, as I was dropping my wife off at Pearson International Airport in Toronto, my cell phone took the message that they were ready to book my surgery.  The fact that the call came at the airport is not a big deal in itself; however, I have often used the analogy about waiting for my "clearance for take-off" and other aviation metaphors when describing the process for working towards my surgery.   It is deliciously ironic that my call came while I was at the airport.  (Ironic, and somewhat eerie, to say the least!)

So there I parked, at the side of the highway, just outside the airport, chatting with Susan, who gave me the absolute perfect dates for my schedule:  March 24th for PATS and April 7th for Surgery.

All systems are "go".  The flight plan is registered.  The sky awaits.  I am ready to fly...

Cellar Dweller (David)

Patiently Waiting to Be a Patient

At this point it has been clear that surgery scheduling is one of those situations that you can't control.  I was able to get my approval with the cardiologist moved up, and they were good about getting the letter in to Barix.  Once the file hits scheduling, however, it is a closed door and nothing will happen until it happens.  

I do understand.  They have one person scheduling (which makes sense in a way - less chance for confusion) and impatient patients calling would only slow her down.  It will happen when it happens.  If the date doesn't work we will discuss options.  Reasonable people can make reasonable solutions.  I just need to keep telling myself that...

David

Last Hurdle Cleared

Today the cardiology office faxed my letter of clearance to Barix.  Tracy, in Dr. Schram's office called to tell me it was received and off to the scheduling department.

I am encouraged that someone else just got a late March surgery date with Dr. Schram so I am looking forward to getting an early April date.  This fits in with my schedule at work the best, It is the beginning of the third term and not as busy as May and June at school.  It is also the time that I try to timetable the school for the upcoming year.  I can work on this at home while I am recovering - no interruptions.   

Hopefully I will get my PATS and surgery date within a week or so.

Montana's Gathering in London, Ontario

What a great day it was on Saturday!  Barix friends took over the whole middle section at Montana's in London.  The staff were very accommodating with children's menus and take-out containers (although I did notice there was no toy with the meal...)

I recognized almost everyone at once (although many of you look quite a bit different from your pre-op Avatars!)

What a great group of support we have.  I learned so much and enjoyed the company of many.  I hope we all see "less" of each other really soon!

David (who was glad to be out of the cellar)

"I'm Telling..."

Hello Blog-Buddies!

"I'm telling!" is something we sometimes hear at school.  However, this is not what I am talking about.

A while back I asked about whether to tell people or not about the surgery.  I have told my family members (kids, parents, sister, out... oops, I mean in-laws) and a couple of close friends.  (I do have great in-laws but I can't resist...)  All have been somewhat surprised, but all have been 100% supportive.  I guess the rule is to tell the people you love and trust.  Even if they disagree (none do in my case) they will support you.  

I must give special mention about my wife, Ruth.  She encouraged me to explore different options with our family doctor and has supported my decision to move forward with the procedure.  She came with me to meet with my new Barix friends in Toronto when Judy set up a chance to chat with some "graduates".  I am very fortunate.  

David

Certified to Fly

As I write this I am in London, Ontario.  I have just been to the cardiologist who has cleared me for "take-off".  Hopefully soon after his letter lands at Barix I should get a call to book a surgery date.  Now if I can just get back home through this snow storm.  It's pretty bad when you pass an overturned Jeep in the ditch.  (No-one was in it when I went by.)  I may take the long way home to avoid the current snow-squall.  The rest of you miss all the fun outside of the "snow-belt".

David

Anticipation

This coming Tuesday is my "moved up" appointment to get a clearance letter from my cardiologist in London, Ontario (half way between Toronto and Windsor).  It is about a 45 minute drive for me in good weather; those of us in Southwestern Ontario are aware that winter came early and stayed.  Right now we have a "Winter Wonderland" and more of the white stuff forecast for Tuesday; however, I have snow tires and I am determined to make this appointment. (I know the rest of you don't get much of this stuff  (Toronto, Windsor, NC); it's mostly those of us who are east of Lake Huron or Georgian Bay who are the "lucky" ones who get all the squalls off the lakes. I look forward to our annual trek to Myrtle Beach in March to get an earlier dose of spring!  I will write again on Tuesday after my appointment.

David

My Visit with a Recent "Graduate"

Today I went to the doctor's office and met with a nurse practitioner.  I was really glad I did as she had a great Barix experience and has lost over a third of her excess weight in just under three months. 

Some points that really "connected" with me:

• she was a "carb craver"
  
• she did not feel full
  
• occasional bad choices did not seem to equal weight gain
• concern about health and appearance
• bad knees
• trouble sleeping

Some points that gave me encouragement:

• no regrets, no negatives
• back to work in two weeks
• feel terrific - knee pain gone
• able to eat most foods now
• feeling full really does happen!
• body stores fewer calories as fat (less absorbed calories) "Today I had tea and a cookie at break - one cookie, not five - and less of that cookie was absorbed." 
• looks forward to weekly weigh-ins
• Barix is wonderful

If I had any doubts they are gone. 

I hope to get the "all clear" from the cardiologist a week today.  That is the last step in my approval.  I will then be getting ready for "take-off"... (yes, a double meaning... no, not that one; clean your minds...)

David (aka Cellar Dweller)

Delayed Gratification

Today I contacted Barix, my doctor, and my cardiologist.  Dr. Schram needs a letter from my cardiologist saying I can handle the surgery.  The office was kind enough to bump up my appointment to January 13th - almost a whole month!  (He wants to see me before he will write the letter.)  Hopefully I can still get a surgery date in March.  Everything else is good to go.  

Catmom2000 (Shelley) wrote to say she had two books to recommend so I will pass them on to you as well:

1.  It Ain't Over 'til the Thin Lady Sings by Michelle Ritchie

2.  Before and After: Living and Eating Well After Weight Loss Surgery by Susan M Leach

School went well today.  So did the eating. (I was good - except for the one home-made cookie at the staff meeting after school.)  So why do I feel so awful?  I hope the stomach virus has not found its next host.  Between that and the chicken pox, we have lots of illness going around at school.  

David

Back to School

Today we start getting back into routine again.  We drove our daughter back to university this afternoon. Our son went back to his university in Ottawa last week.  We are now unchaperoned - I mean empty-nesting - again.

My wife and I start back at school tomorrow.  The routine will help with the eating.  I intend to try some Weight-Watcher smoothie ideas as a change-up for breakfast to start the ball rolling.

While the proportions can vary according to taste, here are the ingredients:

1c skim or 1% milk

1/4c fat free plain yogurt

1 banana (very "appealing")

some frozen fruit (fresh if you can get it) - just a few is plenty

blend until frothy (or until it wakes everyone in the house)

By the way, I'm my parent's worst nightmare:  I am 50 years old, still in school, and spend most of my time in the principals' office...

Some Helpful Resources

Me again - twice in one day!  I appreciate the kind words of support and the positive comments from Wayne on his blog.

I remembered that I wanted to share a couple of resources that I have found helpful:

Weight Loss Surgery for Dummies  (Yes, they have a "dummies" book for everything...)

Eating Well After Weight Loss Surgery by Pat Levine and Michele Bontempo-Saray

I bought both on Amazon.ca.  They arrived so quickly I swear the credit card was still warm!  The "Dummies" book is a good all around Q and A book with some decent eating suggestions.  The second book tells how to prepare the same delicious food depending on your surgery and the number of weeks out you happen to be.  Puree does not have to be boring!

Before you get the idea that I am a chef, let me make it very clear that my role in the kitchen is "clean-up crew".  There is a reason for that.

By the way, you know me as "Cellar Dweller" on the Barix Boards.  As you can see in my picture, there are large windows in the background - very "un-cellar-like".  "Cellar Dweller" refers to three men (Sam, Doug and David) who are from the same church and have discovered they like to play music together in Sam's cellar (hence the name...).  It's great fun, a great diversion, and really cheap therapy. 

Having a diversion that has nothing to do with food will be important to my success.  I hope the guys are up for a lot of practices!

Until next time...

David (aka Cellar Dweller)

Too Much Information

My intent for this blog is to journal my weight loss process in the hope that others will benefit.  One thing I still struggle with is how open I should be with people who know me.  I have purposely left out my last name and city of residence as I have a very public vocation.  I have decided to tell close family and friends who I know will support me and keep it confidential.  Having it "out there" is not something I am comfortable with - at this point anyway.  

Maybe you will struggle with this as well.  There is the impression that bariatric surgery is "the easy way out" and "just diet" is the answer.  For those of us who have struggled with weight loss, who lose only to gain it back (and then some), who watch "skinny" friends and colleagues eat huge amounts of fatty foods, we know that there is another factor at work.  Some of us "store" food as fat much more easily.  Yes, I sometimes make bad choices, and this Christmas was no exception, but generally you will see me eating "bunny food" (salads), Slim Fast bars and Lean Cuisine dinners.  I drink 1% milk and read the labels of almost everything I buy.  Easy way out?  You and I know this is not the case.  

The question remains:  Shall I say, "I just watch what I eat and exercise", which would be true enough, or shall I enlighten and tell those who comment on my weight loss (once it happens) about the wonders of bariatric surgery?

A New Year/ A New Start

Acknowledgements:

I want to thank Wayne MacLean and "Diminishing Dawn" for their inspiration and information.  Being new to the blogging scene I have been impressed with how they have shared their journey.  I want to "pay it forward" and hopefully help others by sharing my journey.  (It will also help keep me on track as I will be accountable to whoever reads this!)

Some background:

I am an elementary school principal.  I thoroughly enjoy my job but feel that I need to take time to take care of my personal health issues right now. After two heart ablations (cauterizing the heart from the inside to prevent further irregular heart episodes) and several years with a CPAP (constant pressure air pump) for sleep apnea I decided that I needed to do something about my weight.  I also want to feel more professional in my role.  Most of all, I want to stop being winded by going up the stairs, and having to shop at the "Big and Tall" stores. I also want to be slim and trim by the time my kids graduate from university - the first one will be in June of 2010 - the other two years later.  I need to get started now!

Doing Some Digging:

I went to Toronto to a clinic where they would do lypo-suction and a abdominoplasty.  This would only do the "surface" fat - not the fat around internal organs.  I re-joined Weight Watchers again - good program, but this is my sixth time.  I needed something else - I need a bigger "shovel" to dig myself out of the "hole" I am in.  I needed something to help me take it off and keep it off.  I went to my family doctor who recommended the Barix Clinic in Michigan.

I had never thought of the Roux-en-y procedure as a possibility.  For one, it sounded awfully drastic - and awfully expensive.  He then told me it was covered by OHIP and that he had a few patients that he had sent there with great results.  (Two have given him permission to share their names with me.  One is a nurse in his office!  I am going to see her on Tuesday to talk about it.)  As it turns out, I know two other people who have had the procedure at the same place with absolutely tremendous results!

And so it Begins...

On December 10th I signed the Out of Country forms for OHIP.  On December 24th, at 4:00 pm, Purolator arrived with an envelope for me - my OHIP approval was inside.  What a Christmas gift!

Right now I am waiting for a letter from the Cardiologist in London, ON.  My doctor in Michigan needs to know I can survive a 90 minute surgery.  (My heart ablations were 5 1/2 hours each - piece of cake!)

That's all for now.  I promise to update once or twice a week - likely more as my surgery date arrives - hopefully I will know soon.  It will help keep me occupied when I am recovering.  (I am hoping for late March.)  

I hope I can be helpful and I welcome your comments.

David