It's been 11 days since I last masticated a morsel of anything other than broccoli, cauliflower or lettuce. Not a drop of wine or beer, not 1 smidgen of bread nor a single penne rigate...
On June 28th I began a liquid diet in preparation for my upcoming surgery. Four Optifast900 shakes per day and 1 cup of green vegetables. That's it. That's all. No steak, no pasta, no sushi, no crème brulée...and definitely no Liberty School Cabernet. On June 28th, by some twist of fate, I weighed exactly 349.5 pounds. Today, July 8th, I weigh 334.5...15 lbs in 10 days. Hardly the healthiest way to lose weight, but I'll take what I can get.
While the first week was terribly difficult, I found a secret - STAY BUSY! Work a lot, mow the lawn, trim your tomatoes, buy and assemble lawn furniture, renovate kids jungle-gym, wash cars, clean and CLR the shower doors... It reminds me of when I quit smoking 10 years ago. I couldn't believe how much extra money I had all the time. Well, when your life doesn't revolve around food and eating, all of a sudden I have a lot of time on my hands!
It hasn't all been roses though. Constant headache since day 3, regular bouts of nausea and sporadic dizzy spells...understandable when you realize that over night I went from taking in 4000 calories per day, to just over 1000 calories. A 75% reduction in energy going into the machine was bound to have an effect. The good part is that I currently feel so crappy, I'm not even hungry. If you put a steak in front of me I don't even think I would know what to do with it. OK.... I'm lying... I would kiss it softly, sing it an Elton John love-song and then devour it with great gusto.
But I carry on - 3 days to go before the surgery, and in all likelihood a couple of weeks more before I can eat my first real piece of food. Every night I fall asleep trying to decide what the first meal will be.... I guess that means I am far from reformed.
Sapienza my man,
ReplyDeleteI see 0 comments so far, but this blog is worthy of one.
Big decision, big journey! I'm in awe of your will power alone. Food is one thing, but Liberty School Cabernet? That's tough! Every Historica/epic tale, Biblical story or even sensationalistic CNN report depicts the rise of the underdog against all odds and at the lowest point in their lives. You are already a few steps above the lowest point and have lots of climbing to do, but I understand the view from the top is spectacular. You're kids will thank you for this in 20 years. God speed, my friend and keep us posted.
Kramer
Chris,
ReplyDeleteThis is an amazing and difficult decision on your part and I'm 110% behind you!! Food has become a very complex issue for lots of us, no longer being just a form of sustenance, but a comfort, crutch and an addiction. As someone who has known you since the day you were born (what a cute baby you were!!), I applaud your courage and strength of character. I know someone who would be very proud of you.
Chris,
ReplyDeleteWe are behind you all the way and sending you tons of positive vibes! The mind is stronger!! YOU CAN DO THIS!! M+G+N+A
Be Strong my friend.... Will be thinking of you for a speedy recovery! Keep us posted.
ReplyDeleteGood Luck Chris ;)
ReplyDelete- Martin