would like to communicate with non-gastric surgery patients about weight loss.

[Stella330]

Hey,

Here's one of many problems for me. I cannot afford the gastric surgery because I cannot afford medical insurance, and I can't get it through work, because I feel guilty about being so big and i can never ask them to pay half of such a sum of money ($150/per month)for my benefits. So I would like to talk to others who are, or has lost at leat 100pds with out pills, or surgery because i am afraid of the diet pills these days. No offense to others who are having the surgery but I need someone I can relate to and maybe help keep each other encouraged, because right now, i am feeling really low about my weight again.
Ayvon

[Gypsy959]

Hi Stella330!

I know just what you mean about feeling low about your weight. I need to lose at least 100 lbs. I have cut sugar out, am keeping carbs and fat low and have started walking twice a day (short walks at first as I have some slight back pain.) I have also joined the x-mas challenge on the weight loss message board for motivation and support.

I had lost 30 lbs earlier this year but lost my motivation due to back and foot pain and wound up gaining it back. I won't let that happen again. I would be happy to encourage you and cheer you on.
Take care,

[Stella330]

Hey Gypsie959,

Thank you for your support, it would be greatly appreciated, and hopefully I will be able to do the same for you. I must admit though this is going to be rough, I worked out tonight, but heart was not in it, i just kept thinking of how much I have to lose. Hopefully in time, I will be able to look at working out in a much more positive manner.
Well, have you started a new program yet? and how old are you?
Ayvon

[Gypsy959]

Hi Stella330,

I agree that it is a hard thing to do but not impossible. It will be alot easier with someone who can relate.

I have found that walking is what I enjoy most and know from experience that it's hard to stick to a workout program that you don't enjoy or that feels like a chore. I have tried numerous things (gyms, swimming, treadmill, stationary bike) but a hike through the woods or even just around my neighborhood is the only thing that I can do on a daily basis as I love to be outside in the fresh air. It really invigorates me. Perhaps you need to try different things or alternate your workout routine so you won't get bored. I know exactly what you mean about having so much to lose. It can be very overwhelming but I try to think of it as 10 lbs. at a time that way it seems more achievable. Once I lose 10 then I focus on the next 10 and I never look at the long term goal as it only discourages me.

I'm not really following a specific eating plan. I have just taken some info from different sources and devised my own plan.

Well, I hope I have helped you even a little and look forward to hearing from you again. By the way, I'm 30 and you?

Take care

[Stella330]

Hey Gypsy

i am 27, will be 28 in Feb. I know what you mean about the stationary bike BORING!!!, but I can't afford the Ymca, but luckily, my school has a PE requirment, and this semester I was finally able to get into the swimming program. I am not sure what to expect being it's for a grade, but I just love being in the water anyway. I to like to take walks outside, but have been thinking about getting a treadmill. I need to afford one first, but really thinking abotu it now. I have spent over $70 this weekend on fresh fruits and veggies, and chicken this and that. No more $6 dollar burgers for me. I tried to be good and took in a lunch and snack, but leftovers were still at work. But I did realize my weak points, and the times in which i should snack and eat lunch.

If you have any Ideas or recipes, let me know. Oh yeah, i have to leave the salt alone for i was just put on high blood meds this past week.So this is really hard. Ms. Dash (im trying)

I will be in school tonight though, im just checking mails at the moment. so i need to get up early to workout which is dubly hard cause i aint the morning person. Ok. good luck with your challenge also and let's keep in touch.

Ayvon