Hey Everyone,

I wanted to let everyone know and ask for prayers for Tucker.

Sometime in the night Tucker got into a bottle of Advil. He ingested approximately 60 to 80 capsules.

Judy and I were actually in Kentucky with family. Jonathan was at home though. He discovered it at about 9:00am this morning. To the best we can know it happened between Midnight and by the time Jonathan found it this morning.

Jonathan and Jennifer got him to the veterinarians office as quick as possible. They have pumped his stomach. They have injected “charcoal” into him and begun heavy amounts of IV fluids plus other medicines for different things.

Judy and I made it home around 2:30ish. Making a 6 to 7 hour trip in four and half hours. They would not let me see him because he is on IV’s and they need him to remain calm and they are afraid seeing me would get him to excited and upset to see me leave. It will be tomorrow sometime before they will allow me to see him.

The big fears are kidney damage and liver damage. It will be at least Tuesday before we know if he will live or not.

Tribute to Trent

Late last night (July 6) Judy and I walked out in the front of the house to check on some new flowers we planted. I went to go to my car to get some watermelon I had bought earlier in the day.

I looked over in the yard and saw Trent lying down. I called his name and got no response. I immediately knew something was wrong and called out “what is wrong Trent” at the same time I knew he was lifeless.

We are unsure what happened but Trent did in fact die last night. Our best guess is he was bitten by a snake. There was a small place on his leg and he was very wet like he might have been in the creek.

Trixie was Trent’s mother and he was born beside my bed one night while I slept. I recall waking up and she was having them right beside the bed. I moved them to a closet where she nurtured all of the kittens. I recall falling in love with Trent and hoping no one picked him. They wanted to but I held on.

Trixie was a great mother to him. Until his death Trixie would still treat him as her son. It was amazing to watch her bath him like he was still a kitten. She would sit back and allow Trent to eat first. They would often sleep together hugged up to one another.

In the middle of the night I guess it was around midnight my mom and Jennifer came over to be with me. Jonathan came home early from his evening and dug the grave alongside the creek. A all to recent site over the past year. He now rest next to Marshall and Dancer. This morning like always Marshall Lawn Care came and fixed up the grave for us.

Trent was more than 15 years old and lived a very “catful” life. I always told people he would eat a human if he could get his mouth opened wide enough.

Trent was truly all cat. He loved to hunt. Which was something I really didn’t like about him but it was just his natural instinct. I recall the time I came home from a late night horror movie. I walked in the front door and was shocked to see blood all over the kitchen floor. My hands trembled as I walked in only to find a nice bunny rabbit had become Trent’s latest meal.

I recall one night sitting in my office working. I heard Trent in the kitchen eating which was odd because it was so loud. I remember vividly thinking he must be hungry! After a few minutes he was still eating. So I got up and looked out the door and there sat Trent watching a possum eat his Meow Mix! I didn’t know what to do. I had no clue if a possum would attack or what to expect. So I called Dad. He laughed while I ran and jumped on the desk chair. While on the phone the possum finished eating and he came towards me down the hall way and back. I watched in amazement as he and Trent then simply walked out the door and off into the night. To the day I die I will believe that Trent and that possum were friends and played with each other.

I can also never forget the first time he brought in a dead animal at Judy’s house. For me it was nothing new but you can imagine what Judy and Jonathan thought! There were squirrel's and chipmunks and lots of birds. A mouse or two here and there.

But I also remember how he would cuddle up with me at bed time. How he was always loving and loyal.

Yes cats have attitudes and Trent was no different he had an attitude of love for me and an attitude to live life to the fullest which he certainly did.

Update

Hello All,

It’s been a long time since an update. However if you take a look to your right you will see my weight loss ticker has continued to rise. Now at 65 pounds lost.

So where do I begin. We went to Vegas last week and I lost weight! I saw some friends with Domino’s who had not seen me since surgery and the response was all good. Judy and Kalon came with me and we had a lot of fun. It’s amazing how much there is to do for families in Vegas.

One day Dennis and Judy saw me but didn’t recognize me. I don’t see that much weight loss but hey if others do then great!

I have been extremely busy getting ready for Jonathan’s graduation party which was this past Friday. We did a major landscaping remodel. It took over a month to complete but the results are fantastic. I know you aren’t supposed to brag on your own stuff but it truly does look great. Judy started out just wanting a nicer entrance up her walk way. She got that and a whole lot more. We did the backyard a couple years ago for Jennifer’s wedding. Now the front and back flow together. It was done so that Jonathan would have some great memories of this time in his life.

This week brought tragedy though. Dance Judy’s little dog of 15 years suddenly died on Thursday. It was tragic and hard for the entire family. Dancer was a special dog to them and to many foster children over the years. We buried her along the creek bank next to Marshall. Mom bought a special marker and together we placed it Friday.

So on the weight loss. I eat high protein. I don’t even want other stuff. Yesterday however I didn’t do so good. Brian’s (Judy’s Ex) mother made Jon a cake for graduation. I didn’t eat any at the party but yesterday I eat 3 pieces! She makes a great cake. I am also still having problems with crackers.

Haven’t started walking yet. But getting ready for the party I have been moving a ton. So that helps. Sleeping is very odd. I am not and have never been a morning person…until now. I am up most days by 7am. Sometimes earlier.

Judy and Mom and me are going to Michigan sometime after than to see my Dads mom.

So life goes on and hopefully I will continue on my weight loss journey and arrive at my goal weight by Christmas.

Coming out of turn one...

Coming out of the weekend I am 1 pound shy of 60 pounds lost!

Actually it is 8tenths of a pound but who is keeping track? Hehe

I am getting nervous about Vegas. I hope people can see the progress the scale is showing. I still have a long way to go but I also know I have come a long way already.

Before surgery I couldn’t even think about being 50 or 60 pounds down. At the time it seemed impossible. Like I have said before if you haven’t fought weight before you probably can’t truly grasp the struggle it is.

Those who have known me a long time join me still today in thinking who would have thought I would ever have this issue. It was not long ago that I had a weight issue but it was on the side of I needed to gain weight!

My mom is losing weight too. Brenda was down for a week and was keeping her busy and she lost a good bit last week.

Well I better get off the computer and get some morning house work done. It was a long weekend. But I had a special visit in the middle of the night (thank you) and I am ready to face the world.

We are doing a complete makeover of our landscaping and I hope they can get to work today. We have had so much rain that it might be too muddy. Also Kalon’s class is coming for a tour of Domino’s today. That is always fun.

I will be 60 Soon!

Haven’t updated in a long time. It is so odd…before I sat on the computer day and night not really doing anything.

Now I am not in the house or office much I am out living and making my company stronger! And it feels great!!

So while some have chastised me for not much updating I hope you understand and appreciate it is because my old life is coming back and I just don’t want nor have much time for sitting around.

We are getting ready to head to Vegas soon. We have a Domino’s World Wide Rally. Speaking of Domino’s have you tried the new BreadBowl Pasta!!?? It is incredible!!

Anyway I plan on an update to my measurements soon. If you look to your right you will see that I am up to 57 pounds lost! I can’t wait to hit 60…will this be the week? We will see.

See you soon! Hopefully you will see less of “me”!

Half a Century!

Well its been a while since I updated. I just been so busy and really not doing good on the weight loss. But as you can see to the right I am now down 50 pounds.

It could be so much more though. I still have not gotten to the exercising nor am I dieting. So I guess that’s darn good for doing nothing. i have a couple other issues holding me back. One is eating crackers! I can’t stop eating them. I was never like this before. I think though it is the “bread” I am after and the carbs.

The other issue oddly enough is I don’t think I am eating enough. I forget to eat. Tuesday was my first day to be able to eat anything. I had some of a chicken breast and it was real tasty. But then never ate anything else other than crackers since.

Judy had surgery yesterday. She has bad sleep apnea. The surgery is a hard one and causes a lot of pain after. But Judy is having little problems. But we are keeping her drugged up and so she is sleeping it away. She was suppose to stay in the hospital but was doing so well they let her go home just a few hours later.

Talk to you soon!

WOW 2!

So yesterday I weighed myself which normally only happens on Tuesday’s. For you ignorant skinny folks when trying to lose weight you generally don’t want to weigh yourself often. Most people will weekly or bi weekly. I use to try to wait a month. The reason is your weight can fluctuate up and down daily. When fat and trying really hard it is very discouraging to look at your weight and either see a gain or just a slight loss.

If you haven’t had to battle weight then you can’t imagine how incredibly difficult it is. Then at my level where I have a serious addiction it becomes life consuming. It is like food devourers me not so much that I devour it. The weight is more than my body. The weight over hangs my whole life crushing it until the point when life is no longer what it once was or should be. Being overweight is not what God has planned for any of us.

So anyway yesterday I weighed and was down a good little number for just 2 days. I suspected it was a fluke. Scared that it was I went ahead and weighed again this morning fully expecting to be disappointed.

To my surprise I was down even more! So this week I am now down 3.6 pounds! Since it held and even lost more for 2 days I am counting it!

This brings me to 46 pounds lost so far. Wouldn’t it be awesome to break 50 pounds this week!

O if you missed it below is a post from yesterday.

WOW!

So it has been only weekly to update but I had to share tonight.

We were waiting to get my haircut and I was talking to someone. I without thinking crossed my legs!!

It still wasn’t that comfortable BUT I was able to hold it!

Man you know you’re getting old when this excites you!

The stylist noticed the weight loss! I just always wonder if they are just saying that.

Weight Loss Version 3.4

So I weighed again but this week it had to be a different scale. Jonathan took mine outside yesterday to weigh a stray dog we took in overnight. He left it in the front yard all night during the rain.

So in my mind I wonder if there is a difference in the scales.

But I lost 3.4 pounds this week. I know that’s good but I sure was hoping to be losing 5 to 6 pounds a week. But I am now down 42 pounds. It’s hard to believe that I got so fat that I could lose 42 pounds! And then I got so fat that even after losing 42 pounds I am STILL FAT!

But not for much longer. I was hoping to be way down by the time we go to Vegas in May because I wanted my friends to be able to see a real WOW difference. I don’t think that’s going to end up being the case though. But maybe a little.

Talk to you soon!

Weight Loss and Puppy Love

So another weigh in has come and gone. I lost almost 3 pounds this week. 2.8. For most people that would be great. I wasn’t all that thrilled. I want to get 5 pounds a week.

But 3 pounds with no exercise and not even dieting is good. I am eating a lot of carbs. I am ready to start meat and then I think I will lose more quickly. But hey I am only 1 pound from losing 40 pounds. My first goal was 50 pounds which hopefully isn’t far off.

Earlier I had a heart stopping moment. Tucker got out of his fenced in area and into our pool area. I was working at my desk. I heard some noise but didn’t think anything of it but after a few I went to look. Poor Tucker was in the pool barley hanging on to the side.

I was able to get him out without jumping in. Judy had just left for a ballgame and I almost went with her. Had I gone Tucker would have died this day. I couldn’t have handled it. Its been sad around here as we have been thinking a lot about Marshall. This gentleman we met at Auburn emailed us the other day. He is from South or North Carolina I can’t remember. When we met him he had driven all night to get his dog “Boris” there. He is a man with little means. He works part time at a veterinarian office and they helped get him enough gas money to get him to Auburn. We ended up putting him in a hotel while he was there.

But anyway he is just a sweat old man. He emailed to let us know that Boris has finished his chemo. He is worried what comes next.

I know a lot people still don’t understand and I guess they never will. I actually feel for those who can’t find the joy and love that animals bring to your life. There is a reason God created them too.

Dancing with a Fat Man?

So today was weigh in day. It wasn’t a good weigh in. I only lost 1 pound. While disappointing I guess at least it’s a loss.

Judy measured me and we had much better results. I have lost another overall body inches of 8 and a half.

I lost 2 more inches in my waist. I think I lost inches in every part. So that is good.

I have to drink more protein shakes and water. I also caught myself a time or two lurking in the kitchen late at night. Bad boy I am!

Mom got us hooked on Dancing with the Stars. So last night Judy is all like “lets take lessons and start dancing”. I’m like you see Steve Wozniak?...he can only get on national TV and do that because he is a billionaire! Me being just a pizza man won’t cut it!

I think it is time for me to start walking. This should help. But I sure don’t want to be walking. Exercise sucks. They aint took that part out of me.

O yea our coke contest started yesterday. This is my chance to win the chance to carry the Olympic Torch. If you live here order a 20oz!

Tuesday

Been awhile since I updated. Not a lot going on. I am eating more and more. Still amazingly small amounts. But I have this fear that come morning I am not going to have lost or at a minimum lost very little. It would sure suck to have gained!

I think my fear comes from eating and being full. But the amount it takes to be full is so little surely it won’t translate to weight gain.

I weigh in the morning. My hope is 5 pounds lost.

Tomorrow will tell. I may do my measurements too. If I have little weight loss maybe I will at least lose inches.

Blah Blah Blah

Today I really worked. I started out with the idea of going to all the stores. I ended up only making 3. I got kind of tired easily. But clearly getting better and better. Just need to start getting some more in me.

This morning I had 1 scrambled egg with cheese. Then about an hour ago I had a little mash potatoes with gravy. I will have to do better.

So anyway that's about it for the day. Had one person tell me they can tell I have lost weight. My pants were surprisingly to big!

O and this darn gout just wont go away completely. I don't know what is causing it.

Down the Hatch & Down the Fat!

I ATE! I ATE! I ATE!

I just took the last bite of 1 egg omelet with cheese! (Protein Power!)

I even got 2 sips of grape juice down. I feel good!

So far my stomach is holding out good. I feel satisfied. I don't really feel full. But that can be misleading. In the past I would have ate until the brink of being sick. So my life history tells me you cant be full on just 1 egg.

More than anything this is a mental game. I also feel good because being able to eat that much makes me feel "normal". Not like a bird atin or like an elephant eating. It isnt much but it is enough! (so far)

As you can see to your right I am now down 36 pounds! I lost 6.8 pounds last week. I have mixed emotions. I was afraid I wouldn't lose any but then I also wish I could have pulled another 10 pounds out this week. But 7 pounds in 1 week right after a 10 pound isn't to shabby.

Can't wait to start exercise walking. That should help a lot.

Time to Eat!

So tomorrow (Tuesday) I will eat soft foods or mushie as they call it.

I feel like I am going to have to force myself to eat. I just don’t really want anything. It is so odd. This feeling of being independent of food. I am afraid that once I eat something I will awaken the beast inside of me and the cravings monstor will return.

But at some point I must get back to eating. I am weak today. Every time I stand up I am dizzy. My gout and bone spurs in the same foot got real bad again last night. I took some prednisone and it has helped.

Gosh I hate to weight tomorrow. I don’t feel like I have lost anything.

For breakfast I will have a egg and cheese omelet. Cold pizza sounds better huh?

Olympics, Life and Weight Loss

Gout is improving greatly. Now having a little bit of trouble with bone spurs! These things can hurt terribly as well. So far though it is very mild. Hope it stays that way.

I will weigh again on Tuesday. I am afraid I will not see much in results. I have not been good about my protein the last 2 or 3 days. Calorie intake must be less than 200 a day. I fear my body has entered the starvation mode. It did that the other week and I only lost 1 pound.

So Domino’s along with Coca-Cola is having a contest coming up where a franchisee will have the change to carry the Olympic Torch for the 2010 Games in Canada. I spoke with my managers about this. I can’t think of anything more rewarding than to cap my weight loss and this new healthy life style change off with than having such an honor.

We are really going to focus on this. Even though winning doesn’t count on my losing weight but rather on store performance I feel it is a worthwhile goal to strive for. I think more than anything it is ceremonial in what I am trying to do.

The Olympics are about coming together across all spectrum's and uniting with one another. It’s about family and friends. It’s about life. And that is exactly what my journey is about…life.

It’s about living again. Not forgetting all the heart acks in the world or my life over the past 3 years but it is about rising above the challenges and telling the world that I am still here and I am not down and out.

What a way to shout to the world by running with the Olympic Torch raised high above me proclaiming "I am living again."

So it has been a few days since I posted. Not a lot going on.

I went to my Doctor yesterday. He liked the weight I lost. He said he could already see it in me. My blood pressure was good. My sugar was good. He did some blood work to see how my electrolytes are and nutrients. I haven't heard anything today so I assume that was all good.

Last night my gout in my big toe began to flare up. It got real bad this morning about 5am. So I am on pain killers now. If you haven't had this you don't want to. It can hurt really bad. I had it while in Mexico but it was not in the big joint and the pain was tolerable. But this time it is in the joint where the toe bends. It is unbearable.

So the most exciting news is Mom has started to the gym!!! She is walking on the treadmill right now. Judy is going with her to support her and help with watching what she eats. I can't exercise walk yet but I will as soon as I can.

I will stay at the house this weekend hoping my toe clears up. It is very warm today and this weekend. It feels like it is 70 out today!

I get to go on soft foods Tuesday!

Tale of the Tape!

So today marks exactly 1 month since I began my search for freedom from food addiction and farewell to fat.

Weight Loss Last Week 10 pounds

Total Weight Loss 29 pounds
I have lost a combined total of 16 ½”

Lead By:
Neck Loss of 1”
Chest Loss of 2”
And my Waist Loss of 7 ½”!!!
My BMI is now 39.77. Down from 44.4!

My new BMI takes me down to an Obese Class 2. Down from Class 3. This means I am no longer classified as “Morbid Obese” but just Obese.

I have a long way to go. But I have to brag on myself (Which I haven’t done in a long time. (Being proud of myself I mean.) This has been far from easy. But I am determined and with Judy, my Mom and all my family and friends I will continue to combat this and conquer it.

Thanks everyone!

Slide Show - Snow and Peanut Butter!

Check out the slide show above. These are pictures not in the movie.

You can click on any picture to see it larger. You can also stop – play – reverse. Just hover your mouse over the show.

So today I had a Peanut Butter Shake from Sonic!! Gosh dog it was sure tasty. Had 10 grams of Protein too!

Will probably just have a protein shake for super and maybe a snack of pudding later tonight.

It sowed this morning a little. Here are a couple pictures.

Infection

Got my stitches out today. I do have a little infection setting in where the drain was. Just need some antibiotics for a couple days and should knock that out.

Had another protein shake this morning. Will be eating potato soup tonight minus the potatoes. Judy also made me some banana pudding minus the banana and wafers. But still looking forward to it. Only a little more than a week away from soft foods like mash potatoes.

Well we are heading to Moms to hang out with her.

Don't forget I am on YouTube now http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HqxTj45benA

What you think about going with mostly video blogs rather than written?
Leave a comment and let me know.

The spelling issue would be solved! But replaced with a slight southern accent.

Now on YouTube

Some of you were unable to view the movie in the form I had. Mostly Mac users. Also the pictures are slowed down so you can have more time to read the captions. (Vickie!)

So here it is now on YouTube.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HqxTj45benA

CLICK THE “WATCH IN HD” LOCATED TO THE BOTTOM RIGHT OF THE VIDEO. IT IS IN BLUE LETTERING. THE QUALITY IS GREAT!

On the other site since yesterday I had over 500 views! I don’t know who all is watching but they like it!

Not much happening today.


I am gaining more and more strength each day now. I got in 80 grams of protein from my shakes today!


I went to the Dentist today to get a crown or cap what ever they are called these days.


Also Judy bought me a new pair of walking shoes today. I can't do any face paced walking for a few more weeks. But I am suppose to walk in a strolling manner.


That's all for today.

Fat Man in Paradise!

http://www.photodex.com/sharing/viewshow.html?fl=3078988&alb=0

Click link above for high quality picture show. Click on the movie to play. YOU MAY HAVE TO CLICK TO INSTALL ACTIVE X.

(Easy to do and no security threat.)

Howdy! Above you will find a little picture show I put together. I hope you enjoy!

This morning I woke to some bleeding from one of my incisions where they had my drain. But it is clearing up. I feel much better today. Though I won’t make the mistake of over doing it again. So at least for the rest of this week I will be sipping, walking and sleeping. The more I think about it my little escapade in Mexico was very dangerous. It could have caused very serious problems. The truth is it still could long term though that is highly unlikely.

My stomach is very traumatized and it is going to take weeks and weeks to allow it to heal. One mistake and serious life threatening complication could set in.

I am so thankful I have Judy here to help me.

O yea…I am so excited I drank a protein shake! All of it! So I got in 40 grams of protein with that alone. Plus I ate a small cup of pudding!

Enjoy the show! If you haven’t subscribed you can to the right. It’s easy just put in your email address and then confirm it.

No Chicken Fingers and Fries!

Hey...not a whole lot to post today. Had a tough morning. I weighed and was down only 1 pound. But in talking with others and Judy called Dr. Joya's office this is normal.

They pumped so much liquids in me and gas for the surgery. Most everyone will gain weight. I was told with the 1 pound loss it is likely that I lost 8 to 10 pounds. Maybe more. This is relevant since I was given liquids though the IV just yesterday.

I did do something very ODD today. I tried some chicken cream soup. I ate it all gone! Wish they made chicken fingers and fries soup!

I did get in some pain again and slept most of the day. I plan on finding a way to force me to get on the protein shakes.

I am working on posting pictures from Mexico. I hope I can do it tomorrow.

A Brief Scare This Morning

This morning gave me a little scare. The doctor came in and was concerned about my progress. Namely the very small amounts of liquids I am able to drink.

He sent us immediately to the hospital. Which we were just checking out and heading to the airport. But he explained they really needed to make sure I didn’t have a serious problem.

So at the hospital they had to again sedate me. They ran a camera down to check for leaks or any other issues. Thank goodness everything was ok. I was badly swollen though. So they did something to widen my area to swallow.

It was very scary for a few hours. But thankfully with a mad dash in a taxi we made it to the airport. I had to be in wheel chair which I didn’t really like but on the good side we were able to bypass the long lines.

Remember I said yesterday that I had over done it. Well I paid a price for it and I have learned my lesson. Things are great but it could have been a disaster.

We are home now! I am very happy to be here and see Kalon. Tucker comes home tomorrow.

I have until Thursday with only clear liquids. However then I am on all liquids. This isn’t much difference to me.

Anyway I will be taking it very easy this week. Probably won’t be able to get much work done but Dennis seems to have everything running good.

I must get some protein in or I will continue to get weaker and weak.

Happy Birthday Mom!!!

Yesterday Is Over

So yesterday as you read below was not a good day.
I was hurting most all the time. Getting up, sitting down…standing or walking.

I think I clearly way over did it at the Zoo. I mean way way over did it. It set me back a day or 2.

On top of that I began having feelings of wanting to eat. The odd part is I didn’t want to eat but yet I wanted to want to eat and thus eat. It’s very hard to explain.

So today we are coming home! Our flight leaves around 2pm today and will arrive in Atlanta 7ish I think it is. Not completely sure we will be able to drive home or have to wait until Tuesday.

We are both so looking forward to being home.

Waiting on the doctor this morning. Hoping this pain is still normal at this stage. Also have to talk to him about my intake. With 100 to 200 calories a day I am quickly running out of energy and strength. Something will have to give. I worry I am not losing weight because my body is or will go into starvation mode.

Please pray for our flight today for a safe take off and landing. Pray for the pilot and crew and that Gods hand will softly lift us home.

Special Update

Today Sucked.

WOW!!!

Good evening. What a great day today.

We went to the zoo today. It was a blast! We got the VIP treatment. We had free drinks, free food and a personal guide who just happened to be the cat trainer!

He took us to every spot in the zoo including the restricted areas.

I DID GET TO PET A TIGER! AND A LION AND ANOTHER TIGER AND ANOTHER TIGER.

They were 400 to 600 pounds. Massive creatures. Now I didn’t quite get to do exactly what I dream of. I pet them through the cage. Because of my slow movement he didn’t take me into the cages. It would not have been good if the time came and I needed to run or duck or otherwise make swift movements. But nonetheless we were in the restricted areas and were able to put my hand to the cage and the cats would come sniff me and I could pet their noses. I just can’t subscribe the feeling of being so close to such a massive beast. The paws are bigger than what you can imagine.

I did get to play with a baby lion for a long time. I held him and kissed him. He licked me and bit me and sucked on my ear and bit me. He played in my hair and bit me. He sucked my thumb and bit me! You get the picture. It was great.

Then I got to go in a cage area with a solid black Jaguar! It was incredible! He was big but not full grown. He loved to play. I was able to sit on the ground and he curled up in my lap and licked my legs. Purring the whole time. He would play just like a house cat. He tried to eat my flip flops.

Judy had the camera and he wanted to play with it. It was so funny. I think Judy enjoyed the whole experience as well.

We played with some monkeys as well. The zoo was not ruined my lawyers! The animals were all so healthy looking and happy. No it wasn’t a multi million dollar corporate zoo with fancy decorations. But it was filled with well cared for and truly loved by humans who do it all for the animals.

Now the good news! We are talking with them for me to have my very own tiger!!!! Not to come home but with a new born I would commit to pay for his care so he can stay his whole life there. I would get to name him and see him anytime I wanted to come visit. You can not believe how excited I am about this possibility! I don’t know if it will work out but over the next weeks and months I will be keeping in contact with the zoo.

We closed the evening off with massages on the beach at sunset. The breeze is swift and it was so peaceful.

I know it’s a long post but I am still so excited about today. I can not wait to come back.

I can’t wait to show you all the pictures. O yea I also kissed a Giraffe! And feed him out of my mouth!

Morning Doctor Visit

Doc came by this morning. Everything looking good. The drain hole is still leaking but in time it will clear up.

Told me to start on protein liquids. The bullets. I hate that stuff. I will have to decide if I am going through that again.

We are heading out to the zoo. Here kitty kitty kitty…

Tigers Here We Come!!

Tonight we stayed in the room most of the night. But we did go down and have a drink and took a long walk around the property.

It is so amazing that I am getting full on a half glass of tea! And I am ok with that.

Tomorrow the Doctor will come visit me in the hotel. We are then going to the zoo. I am hoping so much that they will let me pet a tiger. I am hoping the lawyers haven’t ruined this place. Judy was talking about it today. There are not all these crazy signs about don’t do this or don’t do that or swim at your own risk ect… You just have to use your brain!

Anyway I am very pumped about possibly getting to pet a tiger. If you don’t know I am a great lover of tigers. My life long dream is to pet one. I dream of laying in the grass rolling with a 600 pound Bengal pawing at me. They are such great creatures.

Tonight we will sleep with the balcony door open and fall to sleep with the crashing of the waves. O yea tomorrow night after the zoo we will have massages on the beach. Well mine will be limited to my feet and maybe my shoulders. I can’t lay flat but they said they can do it with me sitting up.

We both are missing Kalon and family. I am going crazy missing Tucker too. But I know he is safe and having a blast. The lady keeping him took him to swim in a pond the other day. She told mom he had a blast.

How to recover!

Hello All

Just got back to my room. Judy and I went down early for breakfast. She had an omelet and I had some pineapple juice. Also tried the orange juice and it is great.

We then lay out by the pool for sometime and had strawberry daqueres. (Non alcoholic)
I could get maybe ¼ of it down and Judy finished it. I looked at her and said “what the hell happened to Jason Upton!” I am full of a drink and I am satisfied!

Last night we met a nice couple from Indiana and we had dinner with them. She had surgery last Friday. She is doing good as well.

The party last night was huge but all in Spanish so we really had no idea of what was going on.

Judy went back to lay in the pool and I am about to take a nap. I am hoping to go to the zoo before we leave.

Out of the Hospital

Hey everyone. We are out of the hospital. The leak test was all good. I am getting around better but still slow.

We went to Wal-Mart to get my meds filled. So odd...no prescription needed just tell them what drugs you want.

I got to drink some pineapple juice! Also had a mexican drink that I cant spell. It is sour cherry water basicly. I love it!

About to go eat some broth. They are having a huge party on the beach tonight. Our balcony is just above the stage so we are going to have a great seat for the concert.

I over did it today at Wal-Mart and crashed. I just woke up though. We are going to get broth like I said and watch the sun set.

The lady's from the hotel just came in and put a new matress down for me with like 10 pilliows. they were so nice. they have made it very comfortable.

Talk to you soon. (For some reason spell check isnt working.

TESTING TESTINT TESTING!!!!

Good morning. Dr Joya came in late last night. Apparently the pain I am having is not my stomach but mussel close to my rib. If I understood him right there are stitches there. So getting up and down is extremely painful. But I am not hurting my stomach which is a relief.

He way upped my meds last night. They put a whole jug of some pain killer mixed with sleeping med in the IV plus came in several times with injections. I finally got some relief and sleep. Most importantly Judy got some sleep. It’s easy to forget what this is like for her. But I shouldn’t. She is dieting without help. She is not getting any meds and she has put up with me! I bet she has lost as much as I have already.

Today is the leak test. I am nervous about it. I want it to be good. I can’t wait to get some ice chips but I mostly want juice! Pineapple Juice. I had it for the first time here and it was so good. I am concerned about how much I can drink. I hope it is not reduced to just sips now and then. I don’t expect to be able to kill anything but maybe it will take 15 minutes rather than 20 seconds.

O COOL!!! The doctor just came in and will be back in 10 minutes to get me for my test!
He says drinking shouldn’t hurt and by noon hopefully I can get on liquids!!!!!!!!!!

I AM SO EXCITED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

From Jason

Hello Everyone,

Well I can’t believe I actually did it! No turning back now. I ended up losing 18 pounds before surgery. Not to bad. I would have lost more. You read about by binge I went on over the weekend. What happened is the 2nd week my calorie intake was down to about 2 maybe 300. No sugars no carbs very little protein. So my body went into starvation mode where it was holding on to everything. Then my mind snapped and the eating binge took place. However once that binge ended, between Sunday night and Tuesday morning I lost 6 pounds. Lesson? I must eat but with in reason.

Last night was full of a lot of pain. I was told to be ready but it surprised me nonetheless. The pain was mainly from all the gas they pumped in me. They had to do quite a bit. Dr. Joya said I had a rather large tummy. (Notice “HAD”). He gave me a 40 bougie. He expects me to do very well with it.

My intake able has been extremely reduced. I don’t even know how to compare it. Maybe what an elephant can eat compared to a cat? What a life change this is going to be. This surgery has one huge advantage over other WLS and that is the removal of the stomachs ability to produce Ghrelin. This is where cravings come from. In my case extreme cravings. I really hope this helps keep things in check.

Anyway I am on pain med every 2 hours. Judy is making this whole thing so much easier. I wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for her. I will never be able to repay her.

Tomorrow is the leak test. This is very very important. If it goes well I should be able to go to ice chips. Then hopefully by Thursday night I can try to drink something…first on deck will be pineapple juice! I have come to LOVE this stuff.

Thanks everyone. I enjoy reading comments and emails.

Jason's Morning

Jason didn't rest well at all last night-----neither did anyone else close to his room. This morning is much better. It was 10:30 before they brought him back to the room and he was sure there was complications because he had been gone so long and thought we were keeping something from him. Also, the anesthesia always affects him badly plus the fact that he is a big baby. Anyway, we made it through the night. This morning he is much much better. He has had his shower, brushed his teeth and acting normal again. He is walking the halls. Two doctors have been in to see him. Dr. Joya told him today he is to walk, rest, walk, sleep, walk, rest, etc. The other doctor came in to tell him he enjoyed his belly message and showed him the picture he made of it. The message has been a big hit at the hospital with everyone talking about Domino's Pizza. Jason is such a company man that even in major surgery he advertises pizza.
Talk to you soon, Judy

Surgery Is Over!!!

Jason's surgery is over. Dr. Joya just called and said everything went good and Jason is doing great. He will be up to talk to me in a little while and Jason will be in recovery for about 2 hours. Just before they came to get Jason he decided he wanted to write the doctor a note on his belly. I had to do this for him. The note said "Please leave room for PIZZA". Dr. Joya said Jason was asleep before they pull off his gown but the whole surgical staff laughed when they found it. Now Jason will not be able to have anything including water by mouth until Thursday when they do the leak test to make sure everything is healing okay. They will keep him on IV until then and give him fluids through it. Keep praying for him to have a speedy recovery. Judy

Update 2

Got all clear. Have just received the first "good stuff". Good news is the Doc said my belly was nice and jiggly! Makes it is easier.

4pm on track.

Judy will take the updates from this point.

Pray.

Update 1

Check in hospital. Very nice. I am down 18 pounds!
Surgery expected at 4pm.

Surgery Day

It is morning and we geting ready to leave for he hospital.

I don't know if I will be able to update the blog over the next couple days. I am going to tell Judy how to do it though.

So check back for updates. You will only receive one email of an update per day. That is set on a time schedule for late notight. So check back often for the latest.

Not sure about my spelling as everything is checked with Spanish! So it appears as if almost everything is misspelled. (Not much new I guess!)

Day 14 Surgery Eve

Well we arrived is beautiful Puerto Vallarta after a smooth and scenic flight. (Scenic for Judy, I was hunkered down!)

It was nice not having to plan anything. We arrived at the airport and someone whisked us away to cab and on to the resort. All we had to say was “Jason Upton” and everything was taken care of! I kind of like this Mexican hospitality! Judy says not to get to comfortable though.

So our hotel is right on the beach. To the left is a mountain range and directly ahead is the Pacific.

Judy treated me to a pedicure and manicure before they start ripping my guts out.(Literally)

We then enjoyed a dinner under this great leaf roof hut. I am still on liquids only but they had a really good chicken broth. Judy had a soup as well. You know she is losing weight as well. She is doing very well. We then took a stroll on the beach. It is times like that when being overweight to my extent really looks you back in the face. It’s very difficult to walk in sand. We walked to a really nice place next to ours. We sat on these huge round bed type pieces and watched the sun set.

We then took a dip in the hot tube before heading over the hut again where I ate my last super…more chicken broth.

We must be at the hospital in the morning at 10:30. Not sure what time the actual surgery will be. I can hardly believe I am in this position. I know it is the best thing to do but I still have so many racing thoughts worrying about what will life will be like. There is no doubt however that being healthy and full of energy will bring so much positive back into my life and that of my family and my business.

Thanks to everyone for your prayers and kind words. Tomorrow is it…a new dawning in my life. Hopefully I will recapture the life of yesterday when I was young and living life to the most.

Day 13

We are heading to Atlanta. Judy and I will stay in Atlanta tonight so we can catch our morning nonstop flight to Puerto Vallarta. The flight departs at 9:45am. Please be in prayer. Might want to make it extra as this time I won’t be taking and drugs before take off!

Well since I began this I can’t hold anything back. I continued my spree again late last night. Pizza once again defeated me. Then this morning that little white glove woke me up and I just had to eat some Hamburger Helper. I took the time to sit on him so maybe he won’t be rearing his ugly head again. (For now!)

So all this means I am back to 300 land. Weighing in just a few minutes ago at 301.4. L So now my total weight loss on the 2 week preop liquid diet is 12.6. Now the 2 weeks isn’t up until Tuesday so we will hope to get that back to at least 15 and hopefully more. (The ticker won’t update when you go backwards)(I kind of like that!)

The seriousness of this is hoping that my liver still has shrunk to help the surgery go smooth. I should not have cheated and even when I did it should have been with lean meat.

But the truth is Friday night I basically cracked. What I didn’t tell you yesterday was I had actually called off the surgery. I had been held up in this house and for 12 days when through intense withdrawals and hunger pains. I was very proud of myself as I did not cheat even one time. To be honest just about everyone I talked to said they cheated and were impressed I had not.

The truth is had not eaten I most likely would not be heading for the surgery. So much time with no food has a way of messing with your mind. I began to believe this was what my life was being reduced to. The excitement of a new life faded away and I simply couldn’t see past the current situation I was in.

So while I messed up I also believe though that I am still on track because in 48 hours I will be “sleeved”! And that new life will have begun.

So everything in recent days is just a reminder that I have a problem and that surgery is going to give me another tool to help me in this battle to say "Farwell to Fat”.

Day 12...YEEEE HAAAW!!!

Wow. The past 24 hours or so have been one hell of a ride.

O before I go further I can’t remember if I have said this before but I can NOT spell nor do I punctuate unless it is !!!!! Usually after a YEEEEEEEEEEEEE HAAAAAAAAW! For we writers it’s called a “writing style”! I can hear those chuckles out there…you know who you are!

So back to day 12. Late last night I absolutely fell apart. I called off the surgery and then called that famous 5050505. Sorry I know you want to read that I then found the courage and inner strength to not order or at least not answer the door like we aint home. (Think they would fall for that?) Or surely you didn’t eat it. Of course you didn’t eat more than 1 slice.

Hell no I ate the whole damn thing!!! (Like that punctuation) O I wasn’t done. I ate the bread sticks too and drank a 20oz and a little more of another 20oz. This morning I went to Chick-Filet and I ate 12 chicken minis. Lunch I had a really good ol greasy bacon cheeseburger and a coke.

You read it right. It was like I broke out from the insanity ward and went on drunken binge for 12 hours.

Surgery is back on and I am more confident than ever!!! I try to always use humor and sometimes that means using it to hide true emotions. I am an addict. I know I have said it before but I cannot stress it enough. I must admit it and the very fact that I have come to feel it and recognize it proves I am ready.

This is some serious stuff. But you know what? Just like any addiction it can be beat. I will fall now and then but I will continue to get up. I will keep true to myself, seek God’s infoment wisdom and lean on my family and friends.

And occasionally gorge out!

Day 11... Mine is Bigger than Yours!

Don’t believe me? Let’s compare.

I’m talking bougie…what were you thinking?

Today I have spent all day thus far researching the right size bougie for me at surgery. The bougie is some type of instrument the surgeon will use to decide the size of my new tummy. I could bore you with the details but who cares. My description is close enough. If it isn't you would be an idiot for taking medical advise from me! (Just playing)

So the standard right now seems to be a 32. I am looking into one bigger than that. However it is complicated and results are mixed on if bigger is better. In weight loss bigger is not better. But when looking at a major life altering procedure that you only have 1 shot at I feel one must look at the whole package. And as always no matter what size I will have to work it or I won’t find successful weight loss.

No matter what I decide I’m looking at a stomach that some describe as being the size of a magic marker. One person told me it was about the width of a fat thumb and double in length.

I have to say I am having some real second thoughts. Nothing to do with the whole bougie thing. But rather there is no return or do over. Once it’s done it’s done for life. It’s scary as hell.

Day 10...Judy

Judy is just the greatest!

Since this adventurer began and I mean from the time I began researching this stuff, she has been there all the way.

Since my all liquid diet she and Jonathan have not eaten anything in the house in front of me. They have not brought any outside food in.

Judy has made countless trips to the store at all times of the day and night trying to find a protein shake I will drink. She brings my meds to me on time and whips me into shape taking them.

I am weak so she has taken care of the house and the business. She is right now out with Dennis insuring that our Valentine’s Day promotion is set and ready to go tomorrow.

I could go on and on but to sum it up…she is putting up with me! You can be assured not eating makes me more than a little ornery. I will come clean this is very stressful and doubts and fear have consumed my every thought. She is there each time to life me up in prayer and to tell me to shut the hell up when necessary!

This wouldn’t be possible without Judy. I am very blessed to have her.

Day 9

Well Day 9 has gone decent. Felt better most of the day. Very weak right now though. But not as bad as the last couple days.

Spent most of the day searching for a beach house for family vacation in June. I am hoping by then to be able to really be going strong again. I know I will still be where I have a lot of weight to lose at that time but I also feel like getting any off will make me feel better.

I hope to be able to walk and play with Kalon on the beach this year without having to stop every 20 feet to rest. Last year was difficult to get out in the water too. The waves can be tough when you are top heavy like me. I guess I could try a sports bra to see if that helps! :o)

Anyway this kept my mind off the surgery and hunger for a while. Judy and I are on our way to see Charlie, David and Casey’s new baby boy. It will take all my strength to drive there.

Then Jennifer, Stephen and baby Will are coming here to see us before we leave for surgery. Well the truth is they mainly are coming so Judy can babysit so they can have a nice Valentine’s Day! But that’s ok they need a break.

Easy Subscribe!

I had several folks tell me they had to join or sign up for other things or something. So now I have made it very easy to get updates.

To the right at the top you can simply enter any email address and BAM you are signed up. You will immediately receive an email where you simply click the link to verify.

From then on you will be notified as soon as the Blog is updated.

So easy even a Pizza Hut driver could do it!...well maybe not... but hey you don't have to worry about that.

This is also a good time to mention that I am not a great speller and I don't even try to use the correct punctuation. I speak with a northern and southern mix. I like to refer to it as "my style of writing".

Day 8

Morning broke over Alabama and the sky opened and the winds of change blew across the Valley's rolling hills...

Screw that....I AM DOWN 15 POUNDS!!! 15.4 to be exact!
(And I will be)

Notice tracker over there ---------->

Day 7 P.S.

I HAVE NOT ATE IN 7 DAYS!!!!!

LEAVE ME A MESSAGE!!!!

(I deserve some...dog gone it. Yea I am cranky!)

(And no that ain't me!)

Day 7

Still alive. I think…yup I see my breath on the mirror.

So last night I got a shake down with 42grams of protein. This morning I got an Adkins shake down with 15grams.

Tried beef broth and that taste like burnt water. Got a little bit of un sweet tea down. Judy got me some vitamins today. Also got something called Super B Complex. I guess that is a vitamin too. I don’t know I just take what she gives me.

I have to tell you this has been a real shock to me and to Judy. I believe this addiction is stronger than anything I have ever thought possible. My mind is consumed every moment with thoughts of food…should I really do this…do it another way. Basically I am looking for any excuse but what this also means is I have to keep fighting harder and harder.

Like Judy just said and it is so true there is not a snow balls chance in hell of ever getting healthy if I don’t get this surgery. Sure I could lose but I would be outright lying if I thought for a moment that I could keep it off. Thus there is no reason to waste my time on it.
Almost a full week with no food! Nota! Zelch.

Day 6

Weak..spent most of the day reading about what life will be like and worrying what life will be like.

Researched this other WLS DS Looks risky but seems to allow you to eat a lot.

I have to do something about getting my protein. Doc says I can eat some meat but I am afraid to do so as I might get out of control and eat to much.

But I have to get the protein. The damn shakes and bullets simply gag me just thinking about them...literally as I type this I am getting sick.

Day 5

Well it is only just after 4 but today has been much better. Judy spent most of the day mixing protein this way and that way trying to get something I could survive with.

She mixed one of the bullets into some jello. I think I can handle it. I don't really taste the protein but I think my mind is messing me up. So time will tell.

I am really getting a gut check. I am absolutely addicted to food. I won't pretend to know what it feels like to go through withdrawals from drugs or alcohol but I have to believe I am experiencing some of the same things. I quit smoking 10plus years ago so I do know what that withdrawal is like...this food withdrawal is 100 times harder. 1000 times.

Yesterday could be partly from the antibiotic was taking. Judy checked with the Doctor when she became concerned about my trembling and shivering along with the sickness to my stomach. We all should have thought that antibiotics should be taken with food.

A week or so ago they put me on medicine for Diabetes. Mt GTT showed that I am experiencing big swings in my sugar level. I thought I had problems with low sugar sometimes. So when I was eating anything and no sugar I thought I was in trouble. I have checked my sugar a couple of times and it is holding steady. I guess that is some proof the meds are working.

I Finlay began taking my blood pressure meds after many months of refusing. Some will recall I was on meds at a very young age early 20's. But after stopping smoking I came off them. Though looking back I don't think that problem ever left.

I am on a aspirin a day for my heart. Then there is the sleeping pills. Basically right now I am taking about 4 or 5 pills a day.

But hey guess what!? My Cholesterol is 131!

Just about got 42 grams of protein in another 42 to go. Judy is at the store buying more jello.
She is also losing weight and eating good. She is down I think it was 8 pounds already!

Mom is on her cruise about now. Maybe someday we can go again and this time not be limited on the shore excursions.

I may update again later tonight.

Day 4...What the heck am I doing?

So let’s talk a little about just what surgery I have chosen. It is called the Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy, VSG for short.

Currently there are only about 15 surgeons worldwide that perform the procedure. The procedure was developed in England. The surgery is now offered in Germany, Belgium and Mexico along with some here in the United States.

Most of my research shows that Mexico is a very popular spot for this type surgery. And yes that is where I have chosen to have mine performed. Notice I said chose. I made the choice to have it in Mexico based on extensive researching and speaking to countless people with experiences in Mexico as well as other places. Clearly by going out of country I was free to choose any place but feel that Mexico is my best option.

As with other surgeries and in particular weight loss surgery it is very very important to chose someone who have performed numerous surgeries. Dr. Joya in Puerto Vallarta. He is currently averaging 9 VSG’s per week. He has nearly 600 under his belt. Compared to a Doctor I spoke to in Atlanta where I would have been his 3rd! I know I am fat…but I aint a Ginny Pig…more like a bore heading to the slaughter house!

In addition he ONLY performs weight loss surgery and combined he has done just under 5000 surgeries. He is an all in one center in that he is also a Gastroenterologist (stomach specialist). He was the first Doctor to perform the VSG in Mexico and brought actually brought it to this continent.

He did his fellowship at the University of Miami. And he has an extensive list of credentials. So I am happy and confident in the care I will receive. Here are some pictures of the hospital and facilities.

Now…so what does the VSG do? Very simple it restricts the amount of food I can eat at one sitting. This is done by removing part of the stomach leaving me with a sleeve like shaped stomach or better disrobed as a shape of a banana rather than a pouch. That’s it. No other extensive changes. The digestive system is not altered in anyway and everything performs as normal. This cuts down dramatically the complication risk and malnourishment concerns.

The part of the stomach that is removed also is the source for the hormone Ghrelin which gives us the feeling of hunger sensations.

Because this procedure is only helping to limit the intake I am able to eat anything I want just in smaller amounts. So with this surgery it is critical that I watch my diet and exercise. The VSG is only a tool to help me control my intake amounts. If I don’t apply myself and commit to a healthier lifestyle the surgery will not magically cause me to lose weight.

It is by no means the “easy way out”. In short if I try to eat too much of something my body will kick me upside the ass and say you’re an idiot! After while if I don’t get the point…it is believed my stomach could just stretch back out and everything was for notta!

It is Day 4 with no food. I am seriously questioning this. But I think that is just more signs of the fact that I have allowed myself to become addicted to food just like a junkie is for drugs. It sucks…I aint gonna lie. I don’t know how I am suppose to be sure I am ready.

If knowing for sure is being happy about looking forward to eating so little then I don’t think it would be possible for me to be 100% ready.

Day 3

Root cannel today. Not bad at all. I was surprised. But I am on some pain meds. So the story of the day is going to sleep!

O yea tried yet another protein drink. This one is nick named a “bullet” it is only 3oz and taste bad but like I said it’s only 3oz and gives me 42 proteins. So only 2 a day and I surpass my needed amount. So for now we will stick with them.

Day 2...Protein Sucks!

Protein shakes suck!

Enough said for today as Day 2 of the 14 day pre op liquid only diet.

Protein in a dead cow from Ruths Chris taste so much better!!!

O and tomorrow I go to have a root cannel! I am actually looking forward to it so they can knock me out!

Day 1...And Were Off!

So in the middle of the morning shortly after Midnight I drank my last Orange Crush and scarfed down a good helping of fried rice. I will enjoy once again but not anytime soon.

I began my 14 day liquid only diet. In stead of shoving in burgers and fries you will see protein shakes and sugar free jello. You will be more likely to find me at the GNC store than in the drive thru line for the next several weeks to months. My hope is someday to be seen in both locations.

Which is why I have chose the Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy. The surgery should allow me the ability to eat anything I want, just in moderation.

I will have another post to talk more in detail about what is the Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy.

So here goes...The numbers tell the story. Many have suggested they didn't think I was "that" overweight to need surgery. I suspect that is their way of being nice and supportive. But hey don't worry I am not blind...

I AM FAT!

Weight 314
BMI 44.4 (Class 3 Morbid Obesity)
Neck 18"
Chest 51" (What cup size would I be?)
Waist 58.5" (DAMN!!)
Pant Size 46

So there it is.

What is the first step? I must get through 14 days with nothing but liquids. Judy will be here doing everything she can to keep me on track. It won't be easy on her and I only hope she forgives me once it is all over!

I plan to update near daily.

Below are the "Before" pictuers. I only hope there is an "After" coming soon! These were taken Day 1 of Pre Op Diet.

2009 GQ Man of the Year!