by Bunnylover » Sun Jun 21, 2009 10:58 am
Hey Kirk!
Welcome to the forum. So I had to look up the band CAN on Wikipedia and I saw that the Ege Bamyasi album cover has okra pictured on it. What a cool username for a McDougaller! I don't know the band but I would probably like them. I was exposed to prog rock as a young teen by my stepdad who was a musician. He loved Yes, ELP, the Moody Blues, early Genesis, Jethro Tull, and the like. In fact the first concert I ever went to was a Jethro Tull show in the early 80s when I was 13. I am the same age as you -- turning 40 this year. Isn't that the age when they say "life begins"? I hope that will hold true for you, and I believe that if you stick with this program, it will.
I loved reading your story and was deeply touched by it. You write beautifully and from the heart. I look forward to following your journey to health.
By the way, I have primary lymphedema in my left leg, which is completely under control now thanks to McDougalling. The things that I believe have helped it are getting to a healthier weight, getting some exercise to stimulate lymphatic flow, and eating a low fat, low protein diet. I understand from your post that your lymphedema has multiple causes and is at a more advanced stage than mine was (I started McDougalling in 2003 soon after the onset of my lymphedema, and it never got beyond stage 1, but it still scared me to see how it can progress). So I will be sending good vibes your way for continued healing and better circulation. Your toesies are definitely worth saving!
I also hope that you see an improvement in your shoulder and arm pain. That sounds horribly difficult to live with. Many here have found relief from chronic pain and inflammation when they adopted this diet, so I think you have every reason to be optimistic.
Reading between the lines, it sounds to me (and forgive me if this is an incorrect assumption) that you may have some emotional issues connected to food. I have come from that place myself and still struggle with emotional eating at times. In my experience it is sooooo much easier to stay on track when you aren't still clinging to the vegan junk food. I know all too well how hard it is to give up your comfort food and treats, but truly, if you can avoid them for long enough to get out of the habit of buying and eating them, it does get easier. These days if I binge, it is on popcorn and fruit. I look forward to the day when I don't get the urge to binge at all. I am sure it will come in time.
Anyway Kirk, I just wanted to let you know that I am here to cheer you on. Take care.
