One of the 'leading indicators' for my health problems has been my weight. 

When I was admitted into hospital back in October 2004, I weighed in at 125kg (275 pounds/19.6 stones).  The message was clear, drop some weight or things will get worse, a lot worse!

So, I started a simple regime that consisted of some regular exercise (walk for 30 minutes each day), adjust what I eat (increase in fibre, more veggies, less crap), and give up some things (my beloved coffee).

This change was for the good, and the weight came off. I was averaging a loss of 500g per week. My doctors were happy with the progress and I was feeling good.

I made it through Christmas and New Year, but then was admitted to hospital again. This time, I weighed 115kg (253 pounds / 18 stone).

Once I got out of hospital, I continued with the regime. I even went walking through the local national park with a work friend.

By the time I went back to hospital for my minimally invasive endoscopic examination, I weighed in at 105kg (231 pounds / 16 stone).

Last week I passed under the 100kg barrier and this morning I weighed in at 98kg (216 pounds / 15 stone). I cant remember the last time I was this weight. I think it was 10 years ago.

I probably have another 10 kgs to shed in the next few months, especially with my upcoming surgery, but at least we've dealt with one of those pesky "leading indicators".

[listening to: Woman - Wolfmother ]
5:26:42 PM    comment []  trackback []  G!   • Health

I find myself at home again today. I had a pretty crappy Easter – especially watching my kids devouring their chocolate eggs, bunnies and hot cross buns – while I was on a clear liquid diet.

I’m heading back to hospital for a colon resection in the next few weeks. This is currently in the hands of the scheduling gods, but it is inevitable. I will be in hospital for up to 7 days, and then I head home for my recovery which could take up to 8 weeks. Lots of TV/DVd watching, blog reading, podcast listening, book reading for me.

If you want to know more about my saga/exploits, don’t forget to follow it here on my personal blog.

[listening to: Everyone Deserves Music - Michael Franti and Spearhead ]
1:07:16 PM    comment []  trackback []  G!   • Health

Surfing the TV on Saturday night we came across a show on the Comedy Channel that had this song.

Quite appropriate me thinks!

SONG: Working Where The Sun Don't Shine (The Colorectal Surgeon's Song)

We praise the colorectal surgeon
Misunderstood and much maligned
Slaving away in the heart of darkness
Working where the sun don't shine

Respect the colorectal surgeon
It's a calling few would crave
Lift up your hands and join us
Let's all do the finger wave

When it comes to spreading joy
There are many techniques
Some spread joy to the world
And others just spread cheeks
Some may think the cardiologist
Is their best friend
But the colorectal surgeon knows...
He'll get you in the end!

Why be a colorectal surgeon?
It's one of those mysterious things.
Is it because in that profession
There are always openings?

When I first met a colorectal surgeon
He did not quite understand;
I said, "Hey nice to meet you
But do you mind? We don't shake hands."

He sailed right through medical school
Because he was a whiz
Oh but he never thought of psychology
Though he read passages.
A doctor he wanted to be
For golf he loved to play,
But this is not quite what he meant...
By eighteen holes a day!

Praise the colorectal surgeon
Misunderstood and much maligned
Slaving away in the heart of darkness
Working where the sun don't shine!

www.bowserandblue.com

MP3 audio of quote/song (3.4 Mb)

[listening to: Praise the Colorectal Surgeon - Norman Swann / Bowser & Blue ]
8:25:49 AM    comment []  trackback []  G!   • Geek • Health