I knew that once December rolled around, my diet would have to change drastically, and I would need to create and work with a team of local professionals that would help ensure my success, both prior to and after surgery.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

I was committed to starting a bariatric diet that would prepare my body for surgery a few weeks ahead of when I would need to, just to help with the adjustment and my health. Given that, it was very important to me that I would be able to find a professional that had a proven track record with helping individuals who had experienced repeated weight loss failures.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

I was excited to find a local dietician that did just that. I felt even better about working with them when I learned one of their specialties was helping patients who were preparing for & recovering from bariatric surgery. After my first visit with them, I experienced a massive amount of relief. In addition to helping me with meal planning & and accountability, they also sold specialized food that made it easy for me to stick with a diet that was appealing, healthy, and convenient.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Knowing that in addition to a dietary change, I’d need to work on my strengthening my physical body, I found a local gym. I knew I’d need accountability and encouragement, so I met with one of their personal trainers to explain my situation and develop a plan. As an added bonus, they also offered red light therapy, something I was very interested in for post-surgical healing. I started working with my trainer once a week and going to the gym 1-3 times a week.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

I attempted to find a local practice that offered bariatric surgery to help me maintain other potential post-surgery issues, but I wasn\u2019t able to find anyone. Fortunately, my primary care doctor offered to help me monitor my levels and help answer potential questions. She said she preferred me to have the surgery locally but understood that without my health insurance helping it wouldn\u2019t be affordable.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

I also made sure to surround myself and my family with support for the time I\u2019d be away and for part of my recovery. My mother agreed to be my travel & surgery companion, despite the fact she absolutely hated flying and was nervous about my procedure. I spoke with my mother-in-law, and she agreed to come help Fredric with the boys while I was away & for a few days after I returned while I was recovering.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

From Thanksgiving until I left for Mexico, (approximately 7 weeks), I lost almost 40 lbs. I was working with my personal trainer, going to the gym several times a week, and following a carefully planned out diet. My body and plans were as ready as they were going to be!<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n