One month ago today, I had my gastric sleeve surgery, and I really feel like it is one of the best decisions I have ever made!

My first visit to the surgeon took place on July 6, 2022. I started doing some weight loss measures to prep for surgery starting after that visit. Since that initial visit, I have lost 41.5 pounds. Since my surgery a month ago, I have lost 16.7 pounds. But it’s not just my weight loss I am feeling good about; it’s more about how I am feeling. I have plenty of energy. I am not having really any issues with food causing me to feel sick. My biggest issue is related to bathroom stuff, but I won’t get into gory details! But even that issue is not super problematic.

I am now allowed to eat all proteins; I just need to be sure to cut them into small pieces and chew them really well. I’m also allowed 1/2 cup of non-starchy vegetables per day, or 1/2 cup of beans, legumes, or lentils per day. Related to that, I am allowed tomatoes or fresh tomato-based products, so I think I will try my hand at homemade tomato sauce. My exercise restrictions are gone, so I returned to boxing class yesterday, and it felt so great to be back! I am also going to try running again. I weigh less now than I did when I ran the marathon 5 years ago, so I am hoping with the weight loss and my TurboMed brace for my left foot, I can start that up again! I’m also allowed back on my bike, so I can get on my Peloton and do some rides as well as get on my Catrike outside when the weather permits. I can also have one cup of a caffeinated drink each day! How I have missed caffeine!

The one month mark is a big deal for me. I feel like I am getting many important parts of my life back. I’ve got some nice perks, too! I had to buy new jeans — I’m down 2 sizes. Rings are getting loose on my hands — I may need to get some sized as well as get some ring inserts. I have necklaces I couldn’t wear without chain extenders that I can now wear without the extender. My neuropathy is still there in both feet, but I feel like I am walking a lot better — less lurchy/limpy. I don’t ever really have any pain in my back or knees anymore.

Onward and upward!