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Survivor - Now how on earth do I lose weight???

Hello Lovely, Strong Women,

My life changed forever on August 9th of 2009. I woke up from what was to be a simple fibroid surgery to learn I had ovarian cancer (later diagnosed as stage 2, with another growth - stage 1 endometrial). I had a colostomy bag as my friend for 6 months. They had removed everything. Omentum, complete hysterectomy, gall bladder. Any part you can think of, I guess. Then the chemo. 6 courses of Taxol/ Carboplatin cocktail. Lost all my hair. Nausea. Then a reversal surgery for the colostomy bag. And I'm here, and I'm free of disease, and I'm thankful. So please don't think, in this next section, that I'm whining. I can deal with hot flashes, I can deal with neuropathy. But here is the thing. Do I need to deal with being FAT???

I gained 30 pounds. Now that I'm back to exercising - I run, just completed a 5K and I do P90X, and I follow a low carb, no red meat, no sugar, no bread - you know, that kind of diet, and I still feel like I'm not making any progress. I used to have a flat tummy. Now I have fatty deposits and a roll. Can I get rid of that? Is anyone else out there dealing with this? What can be done? Has anyone been successful? It's just very depressing. I don't recognize myself anymore. It's hurting my marriage. I know I should just be happy to be alive, and I am, but I want to look good too.
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Avatar universal
Hey there, Ladies!  I am 5 years out (so far so good) and I am still doing battle with my 30 extra pounds!  I don't know who this smiley face stomach belongs to but I certainly don't recognize it!  Imposter !  
I've even been taking care of our nearly 8 month old grand-daughter for nearly eight months....picking her up and carrying her and walking her to sleep.....the arms are still way giggly !  
I haven't given up hope, but.....guess I'll blame it on being 60.....how come those 60 year old movie stars don't look like this.....NOT fair!
We gotta laugh , ladies.....gotta get on to the really important things.....like life!
I ,for one,  am  glad you are still here!
Peace.
dian
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Avatar universal
I gained weight during treatment too (1 month shy of 3yrs since chemo). IT wa the steroids that did it!! THe steroids disrupt the normal energy pathways using protein ahead of stored fat - so it is really hard to loose weight utnil your body shifts metabolism back, For me it took ages. You can go to a dietician and they can do some simple bloodwork and uring tests to ensure you are not low on anything you need. I was told to keep low car higher protein than normal due to the residual effects of the steroids to ensure I built back the muscles. Also do weight bearing exercises to build muscle bulk which in turn helps improve metabolism and in the long run this is what will drop the weight.
The stomach looseness was an issue for me too - mainly due to the laparotomy. Best to go easy and concentrate on activities or exercise that builds core strength and strengthens all stomach and back. Don't do too much on your stomach - or expect miracles, they just cut through your muscles a year ago and stretched everything open.
Hope this might help?
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Avatar universal
Iam two years out this month stage 2. did the whole nine yards, but I lost a 12o lbs cause of the cancer. After my chemo I also had to do 2 hip relacements, the last one this feb. I have gained 60 lbs back and am also disgusted. I do execise everyday and watch what I eat, but to no avail. I have noticed since the cancer that my body does crave healthier foods though, and I eat them more readily, than junk food. I have to be careful cause I am more prone to anemia now, cause my blood was so messed up for so long. I quesss we have to be more patient.. My onc told me for me to loose more than 10 lbs in a month is a danger sign. Hect if I really try I can loose 10 lbs in less than 3 weeks, but then I feel the after affects. I rather be a little overweight and cancer free, than to have to go through it again. Iam not free yet but am in remission, am starting to really get energy back and really have good color. My docs are saying I really look heathy and thats what counts.. I can loose the weight I just have to have patience and eat healthy. We will get there one day ata time
Helpful - 0
136849 tn?1327321510
Well I lost almost 45 lbs with my cancer ordeal and have averaged about a 7lb gain since then.  I could still lose about 10+ lbs, but honestly don't have the time nor the energy to exercise.  I do think my body has changed with the surgery (Stage 1A Clear Cell Ovarian Cancer-6 cycles of Chemo), I have ongoing neuropathy problems with my legs and major issues with my back.  I too have completely changed my eating habits ~to the better, stopped smoking after 24 years.  I too have a tummy "pooch" on the top (weird?), but not from a colostomy.  I've tried to do sit ups, but I have issues, again with my back, and with scar tissue, so I guess, me, my pooch and my scar have to live with it.  My body is just "different" now, it's hard to explain. I would hope that your huband loves the fact that you are just alive, and who cares if you have a "tummy" now.  I only hope that my hubby does for me.  Hey you are doing all the right things.  And if you really think about it, you are barely a year out of surgery and chemo, give yourself a break girl!! LOL  It will come in time, don't be so hard on your self. Hey if I had to choose between cancer and a couple pounds, bring on the blubber baby!!  Keep at it and stay cancer free, the weight will come off.  Take Care!!
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
I should also add that my abdomen - particularly the upper part, just seems unnaturally large. Has anyone had a colostomy reversal? Did it leave you like this?
Helpful - 0
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