My Gastric Bypass Story/Journey

My story with Gastric Bypass surgery

This is my story with Gastric Bypass surgery. A story that I honestly never dreamt anyone would want to hear. But little by little, people have asked me to share my journey. I have always said, if sharing my story can help one person, then it is worth it.

When I first decided to share, I started sharing my recipes on YouTube (which proved to be super time consuming and challenging). Then I switched to Instagram and blogging.

Maddie after gastric bypass

In 2016, I had reached my highest weight and began praying about what I should do. I had exhausted every other option. I had heard about gastric bypass and gastric sleeve surgery and quite honestly always thought very negatively about it. I could not imagine permanently and surgically altering my stomach in order to lose weight. After months and months of prayer, God placed it in my heart to set up an appointment for a consultation with a bariatric surgeon just to see what my options were. I am a researcher. For weeks, I looked up everything about weight loss surgery and was more confused than ever. In general, I would say about 99% of people that I told about it were pretty positive and fully supportive of my upcoming appointment.

Once I saw the bariatric surgeon, I had made up my mind and proceeded with the next steps towards surgery. This took about nine months. This was a whirlwind. I began telling people in person of my decision to have gastric bypass and how I knew this was going to change my life. I went through test after test after test; including an EGD, blood work, psychiatric testing, nutritional testing with dietitians, tracking my eating habits, a physical with my primary care doctor, an abdominal ultrasound to check for gallstones, and pre-surgical testing before the day of the surgery. I’ve almost made a list of everything you need to take with you day of surgery. Check that out here.

Maddie before Gastric Bypass

On June 26, 2017 I had Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass surgery at 3pm. To say that my life has changed since then is an understatement. But to say it has been an easy road, is an even larger understatement.

Complications with Gastric Bypass

As I have told you all before, I am a unique little critter. Haha. My bariatric surgeon has been doing this surgery for about 20 years. When he got in my abdomen to perform my surgery, SURPRISE! He found out that I had/have intestinal malrotation. It is very rare and you are born with it- my surgeon had never performed bariatric surgery on a patient with intestinal malrotation. Basically, my intestines did not uncoil when I was little and they were underdeveloped and “adhered” to other parts of my intestines. This actually caused my appendix to be in the incorrect spot. Instead of it being in the right lower quadrant, it was in the left upper quadrant since my intestines did not fully uncoil as a baby. They removed my appendix and had to stop the Gastric Bypass and start over – performing it slightly backwards. My stomach is slightly lopsided. Leave it to me. So I had an additional couple laparoscopic sites.

That led to my first complication. One of the additional lap sites began to get infected five days after surgery. It opened up and started draining a very abnormal type of drainage. My surgeon neglected this (not cool) and the infection got way out of control. I dealt with this infection for a couple months. It actually got so bad that they considered putting a wound vac on it to close it. It was over 8cm deep with tunneling and I had to have visiting nurses come twice a day to pack it for seven weeks. It was impossible for me to do this on my own and it was pretty painful.

I also developed an esophageal stricture three weeks after surgery. I was having so much pain and pressure anytime that I ate or drank, even a small sip of water was super painful. They took me in and did an EGD and balloon dilated my esophagus to stretch the area. Basically it was trying to heal and my esophagus was almost closing off. I had three EGDs, two weeks apart.

I know, I know- this sounds like a nightmare right? I do not tell you any of this to scare you. But my road has not been easy. Sometimes people see my before and after photos and think “wow, she looks great! It has been so smooth for her!” WRONG!

***I WANT YOU TO HEAR THIS LOUD AND CLEAR– EVEN WITH ALL THESE COMPLICATIONS– I WOULD DO THIS A MILLION TIMES OVER AGAIN AND GO THROUGH ALL OF THESE complications AGAIN TO HAVE THE LIFE I HAVE NOW***

Gastric bypass my story

What’s the difference between Sleeve Vs. Bypass?

I did a lot of research on the difference between both of these surgeries and for me, the best option was the bypass. My insurance pays for bariatric surgery one time in a lifetime. The sleeve is newer and there was not as much research available. I also had a much higher BMI and really wanted the best chance possible for success for how high my weight was. I feel I also needed the negative consequence of Dumping Syndrome if I eat too much sugar, too much fat, or things that will go through my belly too quickly. Lets face it, I did not get to be 180 pounds overweight by eating healthy foods and watching my portions. I needed negative effects that would make me ill and basically feel like I am going to die. The decision was easy for me. The full bypass is not for everyone and I have seen people have amazing results with the sleeve! You have to do what is best for you!!

Speaking of Dumping Syndrome: What is it?

Whew. Dumping syndrome. Not fun. So if you have not had surgery yet- it is not what you think it is. You do not just poop a bunch. Haha. Basically if you eat something with too much sugar (or fat, or milk), which can be different for everyone, you can get sick. Now I am not talking just a belly ache, I am talking ill. It can last from one hour to eight hours. Usually mine has been short lived because I am like over the top careful. This has only happened to me maybe twice and it had been mild. Each time it has happened to me it has been from weird things. Halo Top ice cream – IS A NO GO FOR ME. And that is supposed to be healthy and lower sugar. Certain types of dairy do not agree with me. I can eat cheese until the cows come home but milk, low sugar greek yogurt, Halo Top ice cream or any ice cream, frozen yogurt, low sugar granola, not happening over here.

So first, I start dripping sweat and my heart starts RACING. Then my stomach starts cramping and I have to curl up in a ball. Then I get abdominal pain and nausea. Usually when you have gastric bypass surgery once anything passes through your pouch (at least for me) you can’t really throw it up. You just ride it out. I am telling you, it is not worth this amount of discomfort. Hence why I just avoid eating too much sugar, too much fat, and things that cause this to happen. Also why I wanted Gastric Bypass. Sounds crazy, but you bet your bottom dollar it will help me keep my weight off.

After Gastric Bypass

Maintenance after Gastric Bypass

Food

Now you are probably thinking, “well Maddie, you could just eat other stuff like bread and gain your weight back, right?” Yes of course I could. But, let me tell you the first two years are critical to your success. If you take the first two years seriously and adopt strong new habits and focus on eating primarily lean healthy protein, moderate healthy fats, and lower carbohydrates – you will succeed. Also, when I eat bread, crackers, etc. I FEEL LIKE CRAP. I crave lean healthy protein. You would have never caught me saying that three years ago. I have adopted a new healthy lifestyle over the past couple years that is not going anywhere. Do not get me wrong, I cheat. But there are a couple things that I do to avoid cheating all the time. I don’t bring junk into my house. I cheat outside my home. I usually cheat at work. I am a hospice nurse and we have a kitchen full of goodies. That is where I will have a cookie or some chips. But I did NOT do this the first year. I needed to adopt a very strong set of rules and principles the first year to “get my mind right.” Once I was almost at my goal weight, I started slowly adding in “treat” foods. I was over the top at the beginning. I had to be. I knew that once I started adding in goodies, it was over. I am an all or nothing person. So, I created a mindful and intuitive approach to eating.

Exercise

I began exercising about 5-6 months after surgery. I started with jogging and FELL IN LOVE. I added in weights, then began working out with a trainer, then got into running in 5k races. In March of 2019- I was in the absolute best shape of my life. Then all of a sudden I was diagnosed with a rare neurological disorder, Hemiplegic Migraines. They first thought it was a massive stroke but thank goodness, this is much better and more manageable. We later found out that these hemiplegic migraine episodes that mimic stroke like symptoms were triggered by a few different things. One of the triggers was exercising, more specifically overheating that exercising causes. One of my goals for 2020 was to find ways to incorporate exercise back into my daily routine without overheating.

The pandemic and masks really took a toll on my Hemiplegic Migraines. In June of 2021, I had to go through some pretty intense infusions for my Hemiplegic Migraines and in August of 2021 I was finally cleared to start jogging again. I am taking it slow and praying that I am able to get back into an exercise routine and able to start running again. Running and exercise is so good for my mental health.

**Hemiplegic Migraines HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH GASTRIC BYPASS SURGERY OR MY WEIGHT LOSS- THEY THINK THERE MAY BE A GENETIC COMPONENT**

Mental Health

This journey can mess with your head. Losing 170-180 pounds is amazing but it can change you. One area of my life that is obviously very different is dating. And let me tell you, I have had one nightmare after the next. For the first time in my life, I am 100% happy with myself, in my very own skin (saggy skin and all) and I am happy being alone and single. I know that in Gods time, the right man will come along. But dating can be difficult after going through all of these changes. I have made it a point to be open and honest about my surgery when dating, but that is a personal decision.

Swimsuit after Gastric Bypass

I take time each day to reflect back on how my life used to be and I am so thankful for all that I have been blessed with because of this “tool.” Bariatric surgery is just that, a tool that if utilized properly can be used long term for lifelong weight management. It can be very hard not to go through some depression and anxiety along the way. This surgery is most definitely not the easy way out. I have missed out on parties, meals out, nights out with friends because I made a decision to change my life and I would not change that for anything.

Conclusion

This surgery is tough. I have learned that it takes a village and that is why I created a blog, an Instagram to share recipes, and a Facebook page to also share things. I love sharing my journey with the world. Together, we are all better. I have not figured it all out. I have days that I royally mess up, BIG TIME. But each day is a new start. I know that this surgery has given me a new shot at life and I am so grateful.

If you are still considering Gastric Bypass, surgery check out this post for even more info.

Love and hugs,

xoxo Maddie ♥

I love connecting with you all – On my Instagram and on my Mornings with Maddie Facebook page. (This Facebook page is PUBLIC and is not a group! I also share recipes, grocery hauls, and some beauty/affordable fashion on my Instagram as well! I am all about kindness, body positivity, and inclusivity!

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This is a place where you are all welcome and you will all be loved. I am a simple girl, living in Ohio, who loves to cook and I am certain that I have found a “healthier” alternative to any sweet or salty craving.

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Click on any of the photos below and click on the item you would like to see! If an item is out of stock, message me and I can try and find a similar item for you! xoxo

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Leave a Comment

49 Comments

  1. 1.18.20
    Cynthia Cutting said:

    I love following and hearing your story. Also love learning new delicious recipes and great deals on clothes.

    • 1.18.20

      Awww!! I am so glad you are enjoying! I am loving sharing with you!!! 🙂

  2. 1.19.20
    Cherie said:

    Thanks for sharing your journey. It is interesting how similar but different journeys we (who have had weight loss sergery) have been on.
    I know how much time It takes to make the videos and keep up with the blogs, but keep up the good work – you’re very encouraging, and helpful.

    • 1.20.20

      You are welcome! I am loving sharing my journey with you all! We all have different journeys but together we can learn so much from each other. I am just so happy that you are enjoying what I am sharing and thankful that you are here!

  3. 1.19.20
    Jacquelyn said:

    I’m so thankful to have found you “accidentally” in that fb group thread! Ha! I’m more thankful you have taken the step to share your powerful story. You’re a true difference maker! You are gorgeous on the inside and out, truly! You’re an inspiration for sure.

    • 1.20.20

      GIRL!!!! I am so happy to have made a mistake and commented on someone else’s post AND FOUND YOU!!!!! haha. God works in mysterious ways and brings people together for good! Thank you so much for your kind words! Sisters in Christ, sometimes found by “accident.”

  4. 1.19.20
    Dawn Prideaux said:

    I go for my last appointments with my psychiatrist, nutritionist, & physical therapist, along with a pre-op class tomorrow. After all of that, they will finally submit all of my stuff to insurance for approval & hopefully get me scheduled soon. You are truly an inspiration & I look forward to continuing watching your journey as I am on mine.

    • 1.20.20

      Dawn, I am so happy to hear that you are on this new life journey! How exciting! I remember back to all those appointments and it gives me butterflies. I am so happy for you. I would do it over again and again. I can’t wait to watch your journey unfold, as it is going to be truly magical!!!!

  5. 1.20.20
    Y-V said:

    Love hearing your story and following your journey. You are so inspiring! Thank you for sharing.

    • 1.20.20

      Y-V!!!! You have been here for me since the beginning, even changing my diapers as a baby!! I love you so much! Thank you for reading and for your kind words!!!! xoxo

  6. 1.21.20
    Tamara said:

    Love heari g and reading your story, youre a great inspiration. I am now 2 years out from gastric sleeve and i hae stopped at a plateau, i use to weight 250 and now im at 195, i need help, on what to do.

    • 1.22.20

      I am so proud of all that you have accomplished! When I was at a plateau, I would try and change things up. Drink tons of water, change up exercise, change up diet routines!! Be so proud of all that you have accomplished!

  7. 1.21.20
    Wendy said:

    Love your story!! I also have hemiplegic migraines! I have had them since I was 7! They have gotten worse since my surgery in July 2019 but I would not trade my journey for anything in the world! I feel amazing! My husband had surgery in October 2019 so we are doing this together and it is amazing!! We both had bypass) It is FOR SURE a lifestyle change but we are so much healthier already and so happy!! Keep up the great work and positive attitude! You are beautiful!!

    • 1.22.20

      Hi Wendy. I am so so sorry to hear that you have Hemiplegic Migraines too. Sheshh they are something fierce to deal with. But we will prevail! I am so happy for you with your dedication to this new lifestyle after surgery! And absolutely so amazing that you did this with your husband! You keep that positive attitude as well. Thank you so much for reading! XOXO!!!!

  8. 1.28.20
    Brittany said:

    Thank you for sharing your journey. I am on the road right now to deciding if I am ready to go through with the sleeve. I have Chrons disease and ulcerative colitis so having bypass isn’t an option for me. I’ve made my peace with this. Now it is just the act of doing it. I am deathly afraid of being put to sleep. Like as soon as I see the anesthesiologist he has to give me something to relax me before I can even have a normal conversation. So that part worries me.
    Also my mom has bypass 13 years ago and he experience was not good. She has always spoken of it as the biggest waste of $ (insurance coverage wasn’t great for it back then) and the biggest waste of time and left her with lasting issues. So I have that in my head too…
    It is very interesting how you described the dumping syndrome episodes. That is EXACTLY what I experience when I am having a Chrons-colitis flair up. Everyone always asks me to explain it but I’ve never been able to put it like you have. Thanks for the help on that ?
    Also really cool thing-there’s an episode of Greys Anatomy where a man had the same issue you did with your intestines and they had to pause mid surgery and switch things around. I’m a nerd so maybe it isn’t cool to anyone else but I thought it was lol. Thank you for sharing your story!

    • 1.29.20

      Hi Brittany! I am so sorry to hear of your battle with Crohns and Colitis! Being a nurse, I know of patients that have struggled with these diseases and from what I have seen/heard I know how life altering it can be. I always tell everyone, you have to do what is best for you personally. I never tell anyone that bariatric surgery is the answer for everyone. It just so happened to be the best thing for my life and for me!! Dumping is the worst and I am so sorry that you experience something so similar with your flare ups!!!! That is so neat about the Greys Anatomy episode! I am a huge Greys fan and I will have to go back and search for and rewatch that episode! I can’t remember it off the top of my head! Thank you so much for reading and sharing with me!!!! xoxo! I will be thinking of you as you make this decision on your surgery!!!

  9. 2.16.20
    Valeria said:

    Hi there Maddie, what an amazing inspirational story that you have. I too am on the journey, for bypass surgery. Ups and downs of weight, has been a struggle for me as well. I haven’t shared with many folks, about MY decision, of surgery. My decision, is a personal one. Having 2 special needs kids, ages 17, and 15, my decision has been for myself. 2020 is my year, to become healthy for myself, and also to be able to fo fun things with my kids. Having children later in life, really has been great, but without losing the weight gain, my belly weight is a struggle for a domino effect of ailments. Autoimmune issues, genetically, has been another struggle. However, I chose to take a hard look at myself, and this surgery, is a life changer for me. I too am a researcher, and having the bypass has been my only choice. I am very thankful and grateful, to have found someone, like yourself, whom is honest, and reading your journey, is so inspiring. Question, not having a great support system for myself, and as you’ve read having “belly fat”, that I have, and not a good core at all, would you recommend me to get a bariatric device to help support my back after having my bypass?

    • 3.6.20

      Hi Valeria, I apologize for it taking so long to get back with you. I am so happy for you on this new life journey. Never feel the need to be open with people about your surgery. You don’t have to tell anyone about it. Surgery is a tool and you are still putting in just as much work losing and maintaining the weight loss and it is YOUR journey. 2020 is your year and you are allowed to do this however YOU want. I am so proud of you having made this decision. I will be thinking of you and am always here for you to help you and support you. I would ask the physician about a device for back support. I am not familiar with those devices. You could also do some research or ask some of the support groups on Facebook if anyone is familiar with them. I am over the moon excited for you and can’t wait to watch you SOAR!!!!!! xoxo

  10. 2.17.20
    Butch Luce said:

    Well I read your story and I commend you for being upfront and honest. Hopefully your story will encourage other younger persons to pursue bariatric surgery. I waited too long, I was 69. I’m 73 now. Wish I had done it 20 years ago! Anyway, I’m in my “elder” years feeling better with much improved health such as lowered blood pressure. I have to admit that when I see friends who are grossly overweight I have to resist going up to them and telling them they need to look into the surgery. I just hope that maybe my weight loss will inspire them to pursue it. Thanks for sharing your story because I know you will inspire younger people to look into the surgery. God bless you!

    • 3.6.20

      Hey Butch!! I am so glad you found your way to my blog! I know since you commented you found your way to my Facebook and my hemiplegic migraine video and we have chatted since then! Bless your heart for having the surgery and maintaining your goals. I am so proud of you. You are such a great example to so many and I am so happy for you. I have been praying for your friend and hope he is doing well. God bless!

  11. 2.29.20
    Julie said:

    I don’t have Instagram…do you post recipes and other things somewhere else? Would love to follow you. I have gastric bypass in 2010. Starting weight was 259 lbs. Lowest weight was 136 lbs about 6 years ago. I am now back up to 180 lbs. I need help with menus, easy recipes, I have a very busy schedule. I’m a single mom, work full time, go to school and have bible study once a week. Need something fast and easy. Need to get on track and searching for everything and anything to get there! Thanks for your story! You are absolutely beautiful!

    • 3.6.20

      Hi Julie! I post recipes here and on Instagram! I also have a Facebook page – Mornings with Maddie All of my Instagram posts go here. The only thing you can’t access is the highlights that I have on Instagram!! I am so proud of you for wanting to get back on track. I will tell you, it is so hard!!! Gastric bypass is a wonderful tool and don’t let anyone tell you that it is the easy way out. I have a lot of recipes that are quick and easy! Thank you so much for your kind words. I am here to help and hopefully you can get something from my page!!! Praying for you!!! We are all better together!! It takes a village! xoxo

  12. 3.10.20
    Tara said:

    This was so honest and helpful. I am considering weight loss surgery and am going to a seminar Thursday to find out more.

    • 4.23.20

      I am so happy for you and so glad that you found this helpful!! I hope the seminar went well!

  13. 7.20.20
    Jessica said:

    I am going through the process of getting the sleeve & I went to an aesthetician recently where Theresa told me to follow you! Small world lol

    I think my biggest concerns about this is loose skin. I haven’t seen you talk about it (which I imagine why), but I feel like it would put many of us going through this lifelong journey at ease.

    Would you be willing to share?

    • 7.21.20

      Oh my gosh! I love Theresa!!!! I talk about my loose skin a little bit on some of my Instagram highlights and I am thinking about doing a full blog post on loose skin. I definitely have some. Mostly around my bra line, back fat, belly, and arms. I was able to work out quite a lot from December of 2017 up until March of 2019 when I was diagnosed with Hemiplegic Migraines. It is a rare neurological condition where the episodes mimic strokes. My episodes are brought on by exercise and overheating. The effects of each episode can be permanent so I have to be careful with any exercise that I do. From December of 2017 until I was diagnosed, I did the elliptical, jogged which progressed into running, lifted weights, and worked out with a trainer. I loved it! It helped so much to minimize the amount of skin that I have. Stay tuned for more on loose skin and check out my Instagram highlights!

  14. 8.4.20

    This article is a source of inspiration, I recommend it. I also want to share how I lost weight fast
    and healthy.
    Thanks and keep it up!

  15. 10.20.20
    Isabella said:

    Way cool! Some extremely valid points! I appreciate you writing this
    write-up and the rest of the site is also very good.

  16. 11.10.20
    Brandi said:

    Hi there Maddie, I found you on Instagram and absolutely loved all your posts. You are such a positive person and beautiful inside and out! Your journey is amazing and it sounds like the beginning of mine. I never ever thought I would be considering WLS but after having 3 kids and still gaining I knew I needed to do something if I wanted to be around to watch them grow. I prayed for an answer and I truly feel like God has brought me to where I am now. I have an appointment with my surgeon next week to go over everything and to schedule my other appointments and surgery date. Although I am scared to death and find myself questioning if this is the right thing to do, I know I just need to take one step at a time. Reading your posts and blogs helps me immensely and the entire WLS community. Thank you for all your positivity!!!

    • 11.12.20

      Hi Brandi! I am so glad you came across my Instagram and my blog! I want it to be a safe space for anyone who is considering bariatric surgery! I alway wished there were more resources for me when I was in the beginning phases!!! It’s the best thing I have ever done! I’m excited to hear how your appointment goes! It has completely given me my life back in so many ways! Love, hugs, and prayers! Xoxo Maddie

  17. 12.29.20

    Thank you so much Maddie for sharing your story!!
    My mom had the “RNY” back in 1982 and lost a lot of weight!! I had my RNY in 2009 and lost over 100lbs, yes I have cheated by sweets and gained 20 lbs back, but I have also lost that weight again!!
    When I look back on my weight loss, I remember my co workers shaming me for wearing size 2 clothes and high heels to work, why wouldn’t I?? I was darn proud of who I was becoming!! To this very day, I can still hear them shaming me and telling me I took the “easy” route!! Ha ha ha, NOTHING easy about it at all!!
    I had my RNY when I was 43 and love everything about it, even if it is work, I still love it!! As of 2 years ago I have developed MS and from my breast line down on both sides are totally numb, NUMB meaning I have bowel and bladder issues now and truly cannot even feel my stomach anymore, so I really have to watch what I eat!!
    I am going to make (his choice of course) my husband follow a strict diet (his is complaining about being so fat at 5’11” and 220 lbs) so he (we) can go through his weight loss together!!
    Thank you so so so much for your recipes, I am going to share them with my neighbor who has become a new best friend and who was sleeved about 6 weeks ago!!
    Thank you again,
    Darla

    • 1.3.21

      Oh my gosh Darla, I am so happy for you!!! What an amazing journey you have been on!!! Thank you so much for sharing! And to be on a journey with your husband now is just so incredible to have the support together! I am so proud of you!

  18. 1.5.21
    K said:

    New member to your blog and excited! Just read your story as I am close to my surgery date. I had an extremely hard time deciding between the bypass and sleeve. For months I was set on the sleeve but after speaking with my surgeon, I switched to bypass because I have bad reflux. The last minute switch has sent me into near panic feeling like I need to research all over again! Dumping syndrome scares me so much. I’m so anxious about the idea of having to go through the symptoms to “learn” my trigger foods. I scared of being at a group function and experiencing it. Any advice? And no ice cream the rest of your life? 😉

    • 1.5.21

      Hi!!! So happy you are here! Congrats on deciding on your surgery! I have never regretted having the bypass. I still have a couple bites of ice cream here and there. But a moderate/large amount doesn’t sit well in my stomach. They also make alternative kinds that some that have bypass can tolerate. I also make my own protein ice cream with Devotion protein. I’m going to share that soon on my Instagram! It is delicious! I have pretty much found alternatives to almost every food and it’s just a learning process. It takes a few months to get adjusted to the new lifestyle!! For me, it was worth it to have to learn a new lifestyle versus living my life at 338 pounds. I knew I couldn’t live my life at that weight and be happy and live life to my fullest potential!

  19. 3.19.21

    Maddie—
    Thanks for sharing your story… I’m a 34 year old man, 200lbs overweight and just signed the contract for private gastric bypass surgery in the UK. Received my surgery date this morning… 5 May. Seriously cannot wait to start this journey and if I’m half as successful as you have been, i will be a very happy chap.

    With love, respect and inspiration
    Andrew

    • 3.28.21

      Andrew, I am so so happy to hear from you and so excited for your upcoming gastric bypass journey! May 5th is going to be a fantastic day! The day I got surgery was a day that I will never forget! I am cheering you on!!!!

  20. 4.10.21
    Marisa said:

    Hi there! I’m 4 days post-VSG surgery and I am fortunate to have a fairly easy recovery. However, I am so hungry even when I fill my tummy with water or protein drinks. The liquid diet is so hard. I’m worried I’m going to feel hungry forever with a restriction. Does it ever sync up? Does that make sense?
    Also your recipes look good – any recommendations for yummy and satisfying ways to fill up on liquids and purées?

    • 5.2.21

      Hi Marisa! I am so sorry for the late response! I recommend following Kristin (Bariatric.Meal.Prep) on instagram. She has a ton of really good recipes for liquid, purees, soft, etc. She is amazing. She is a dietitian and has a wonderful setup on her website and Pinterest. I feel like it does level off and you will begin to get a little more satisfied once you add in more solid foods!

  21. 4.29.21
    Kallie said:

    Thank you for sharing your journey, I am definitely going to try to read all of your posts about your journey. This is something that I am looking into doing.

    • 5.2.21

      Hi Kallie! I love sharing my journey with the world, in hopes of helping others along with their journey! I hope you are well and things are going well with your pre-op preparation if surgery is something you are pursuing!

  22. 5.2.21
    Carly Richardson-Grubb said:

    So beautiful. You got your dream, she who dares wins ♥️🌈

    • 5.22.21

      Thank you so much Carly! It seriously means the world!!!

  23. 7.5.21
    Stacey said:

    So glad I found you Maddie! I am also a nurse, I work ambulatory GYN/Oncology. I am with my patients through surgery, chemo to whichever way their journey takes them. I have been debating for some time now gastric sleeve, and have ex-coworkers who have done it with much success. I have started the process, and can’t wait to see how much this tool changes my life!! So glad to have found you!!

    • 7.5.21

      It is so nice to meet you Stacey!! And I always love meeting fellow nurses as well! I hope my blog will help you along the way during your pre-op and post-op journey!!! I would do it all over again a million times!! Have the best week!! xoxo

  24. 2.17.22
    Larissa said:

    So I had sleeve…I still have to lose 30 pounds before I have skin removal surgery. I’m at a stand still. I don’t know what to do to get my weight loss to start back. Any suggestions?

    • 2.18.22

      Hi Larissa. Sometimes our bodies are just happy with the weight we are at. When I had some regain and wanted to try and lose more weight, I hired a bariatric dietitian. I always tell people they should go back to their surgeons office and see their dietitian there as well! I have a blog post on stalls as well! Best of luck to you! Congrats on your surgery and your skin removal! This journey is LIFELONG!

  25. 5.5.22

    Definitely, what a great blog and informative posts, I definitely will bookmark your website.Have an awsome day!

  26. 8.28.22

    I know this if off topic but I’m looking into starting my own blog and was curious what all is needed to get set up? I’m assuming having a blog like yours would cost a pretty penny? I’m not very internet smart so I’m not 100 positive. Any tips or advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you

    • 9.22.22

      Hi, definitely just get started!!!! I am transferring over to Sqaure Space in November!!! There are so many amazing tools on Pinterest and YouTube to begin!