Health Info

I just got a call from my doc's office,,,,,my ins has a waiting period and since
we just got the ins in May ,,,I have to wait until after Jan. 05 before I can
have the surgery,,,,,,I feel like I have just been crushed,,,,,,,,lol ...guess
that sounds crazy...but I was really wanting this done before the end of the
year.......oh well,,,back to square one,,,,,,,maybe I can get my mind focused
and lose some of this weight before then,,,,,,but as for now ,,,,I wanna go some
where and cry.....I'll keep in touch and let you guys know when it gets moving
again ...........
Thanks for being there !!
Deitra

i am pennie and i am from monroeville AL.
Alice Hardesty <hardesty@...
will be having surgery August 26th in San Diego, CA.
Alice hardestyal hardesty@...

Jennie,
Congrats!!!
Thank you for sharing. I am going for my appointment on the 18th & reading
about all the success stories here is only making me more excited.
Have a great day in your "new" pants!!
Sue in NY
jennie phillips <JPHILLIPS@...
Hi
My name is Jennie and I had my surgery on July 1st. Is it possible to do to
much at the gym to the point where you now you get sick when you eat? I
went to the gym on Sunday and I think over did it, since then anything I eat
makes me sick, plus I can't tolerate as much. (it was not much in the first
place)
On another note. I read where people get down to lower sizes and read their
excitement, and wonder when will I experience that. Well, before the surgery
5 weeks ago, I went out and bought pants that were two sizes smaller. I have
tried them on periodically over the last couple of weeks, but they didn't
even come close, by chance I tried them today and they fit. I didn't know
what to do, I just stared in amazement.
When I first had the surgery, I didn't know what to think, almost like there
was a regret because of the things I will never be able to do eat again.
That quickly changed about two weeks later, and now each day that past it is
met with an excitement that only something like this can create. Each day
at the gym is an opputunity to do something that I have not done before, or
go further than before.
I feel like my life is finally starting to begin.
Thanks everyone for reading and surporting and for encouragement.
Jennie Phillips
Open RNY July 1 2004
337/300/140
jphillips@...

Hi
My name is Jennie and I had my surgery on July 1st. Is it possible to do to
much at the gym to the point where you now you get sick when you eat? I
went to the gym on Sunday and I think over did it, since then anything I eat
makes me sick, plus I can't tolerate as much. (it was not much in the first
place)
On another note. I read where people get down to lower sizes and read their
excitement, and wonder when will I experience that. Well, before the surgery
5 weeks ago, I went out and bought pants that were two sizes smaller. I have
tried them on periodically over the last couple of weeks, but they didn't
even come close, by chance I tried them today and they fit. I didn't know
what to do, I just stared in amazement.
When I first had the surgery, I didn't know what to think, almost like there
was a regret because of the things I will never be able to do eat again.
That quickly changed about two weeks later, and now each day that past it is
met with an excitement that only something like this can create. Each day
at the gym is an opputunity to do something that I have not done before, or
go further than before.
I feel like my life is finally starting to begin.
Thanks everyone for reading and surporting and for encouragement.
Jennie Phillips
Open RNY July 1 2004
337/300/140
jphillips@...

I was approved based on type 2 and BMI. I had PCO, but had a complete
hysterectomy in 1997 due to uterine cancer. PLEASE anyone who has PCO,
please know that if you aren't having regular cycles this can lead to
uterine cancer. Even though I was on birth control pills to try and
regulate my cycles, I still wasn't "shedding" the lining enough and was
diagnosed with Stage 1 uterine cancer, discovered during fertility
treatments. Uterine cancer is not diagnosed through regular paps. It
is only diagnosed with a uterine biopsy. During the treatments I had to
have a D&C because the lining was 1 1/2" thick should have been 1/2"
thick. What they scraped out was loaded with cancer cells. After the
hysterectomy (age 32), my uterus showed "questionable" spots, so the
cancer was discovered very early. Just a heads up.
Robin
Message: 3
Date: Tue, 10 Aug 2004 01:23:17 -0700 (PDT)
From: Jennifer Becher <jenn24_08009@...
Subject: Re: surgery
I also have polystic overain disease with gave me type 2 diabeties.
Which this condition be enough to get someone approved to have the
surgery? Also how did u make out with your surgery. Were there any
complications?

If you LOVE chocolate like I do, have you tried the sugar free
Baskin Robbins mint chocolate chip hard candies? They are
WONDERFUL!!!
Teresa

Alana,
I'm sorry to hear of your problem, but glad your here to tell of it. I can
imagine how scary that was for you. Your guardian angel sure was with you. I
never thought I could give up the chocolate either. I do on occasion allow
myself a sugar free reese cup now and then. There is so many sugar free candy
products out there, maybe if you get that urge you can try some of them. I
wish you the best of luck.
Laurette
4/23/04 open rny
309/290/244/150

I live in North Pole, Alaska and will be having surgery August 26th in San
Diego, CA.
Alice hardestyal hardesty@...

About a week and a half ago I made a big mistake. I had a peanut
butter cup and a couple sips of an icee and can tell you now that
never again will I repeat this. I just thought that I would tell
you my story to perhaps help others avoid the situation.
After eating this very bad selection I started to have an increasing
pain in the area of the pouch. I ignored this and decided to drive
home to finish packing (I was moving). As I drove the pain become
even worse. All of a sudden I fainted and woke up to my boyfriend
telling me to stop the car. He then put me in the passenger side
and raced me to the ER. Shortly there after though I felt fine.
After about a half hour though the pain started again. Thankfully I
was in the ER at that point. They said that I was whiter than a
sheet. I was in pain for about a half hour or so and then I started
throwing up. As soon as I was done I felt better, but I still had a
million tests done to me. All they could say was that it was
something I ate.
The following Monday I spoke to my nurse and he said that it was
probably a combination between dumping and a blockage. Not more
than an hour later I started to feel faint again. I was at work and
was very scared. As soon as it subsided I went home. Unfortunantly
I had to pull over because the pain started again. I started to
throw up and this time it didn't work. My boyfriend had to once
again come to my rescue on the side of the road. The pain continued
for a least an hour this time before finally going away. What
scared me about this attack, as I have come to call them, was I
hadn't eaten anything for at least three hours.
The next morning I talked to my nurse and he and my surgeon said
that it must be an ulser and a combo of dumping. I was put on
Prilosec and back on the liquid diet. Also if the attacks continue
I have to go have a scope done. I visited my nutrionalist yesterday
and of course I got a great lecture and now I must swear of the
sugar items that I love. Also the same sugar items that I could eat
with no problem just a couple weeks ago. Of course I never combined
those two before.
Anyway, my point is that all of you should please be careful.
Although what I have is rare, it can still happen. Trust me, if my
boyfriend wasn't in that car that day I wouldn't be talking to you
right now. That is a very scary thought for me. Scary enough to
make me not eat chocolate. Wow I never thought I'd say that.
Thanks for your time,
Alana

Carolyn, that's wonderful keep up the great work, you had your surgery
just 1 day before me :)!!!
Carrie
Lap RNY April 9, 2004
348/275/140 (begin/current/goal)
www.carrieburns.net

Trempealeau, Wisconsin

Good luck with the surgery...I'm sure everything will go fine....
Jenise

Hi Linda,
My hubby's uncle was at the same base when he was younger. It's a pretty area
from what I remember.
Dr DeWitt operates out of Caraway, I was familiar with UAB but this was my
first visit to Caraway, it's an older hospital. My shrink recommended this dr
for a dr she knew whose daughter needed the surgery he did a search in the area
for the best dr who did this type of surgery for his daughter and chose Dr
DeWitt. At the seminar there were around 200 people there so that made me feel
better too. I'm in the process of getting all my drs to give me a copy of my
weights thru the last 10yrs, it's a job some of them charge for it too, u would
think we paid them enough with all the copays thru the yrs that getting a copy
should be free. I'm familiar with Brookwood, I have 2 drs there in fact I go
back to one of them on the 23rd. Sounds like u will beat me on the surgery. My
appointment with the dr is not till next month, I hope my insurance comes in as
fast as yours did. I had a breast reduction last yr and it only took 5 weeks to
be approved.

I'm from Duarte in Southern California. I had my surgery 4/8/04 and have lost 62
lbs.
Carolyn
301/270/208/135
Carolyn
Duarte, Ca
Lap/rny
4/6/04
302/276

Janise yes it is true cause they have to make sure that you don't have
sleep apnea
love debbie

Hi,
I just wanted to ask a question...my regular doctor is sending me for
a sleep study and I ask my mum why and she said that I would have to
have it done in order to have the weight loss surgery.....is that
true that you have to have a sleep study in order to have the
surgery? Thanks...
Jenise

Hi Layna i'm from lancaster if u ever wanna talk
Debbie

Hi Teresa!
I'm in Prunedale,California, just north of Salinas. Had my surgery
in Monterey.
Christopher, what an awesome accomplishment. You are incredible!
Just saw my endocrinologist today and lost 4 more pounds since last
Thursday. I've been off the glucophage since the surgery and she
told me to stay off it and now I only have to do finger sticks once a
day. She'll see me again in December and probably cut me loose. I'm
so very happy--that's why I had the surgery.
My list of allowable foods includes skim milk and yogurt and low-fat
mozzarella. None of these things bother me so I've been eating them.
However, I'm losing slowly in my opinion.

I'm from the Phildelphia Area in Pa..
*Layna*

Hi everyone. This looks like a great group. We are brand new here and
still a long way from surgery. My wife and I have been on every diet
in the book. We are usually very successful but we always gain back
what we have lost plus a few. I am a BMI of 44 and My wife has a BMI
of 41. Our Insurance demands a 6 month diet prior to surgery. I don't
understand if it is to show that we can loose weight or that we can
not. Either way its going to be a pain. Then we have about a 3 month
weight after that and I have no idea how long I will have to weight
for my wife to recover from her surgery till I can have mine. So I
may be a year away from my surgery and who where my weight will be by
then. Oh well enough complaining.... We are happy to be part of this
group and will enjoy reading along on how you all are doing on your
weight losses.
George and Barb

George and Barb,
Welcome to the group!!!!! Wish both of you lots of luck in your journey and
hoping the road ahead isn't too rough for you both. Good luck on the pre-op
diets and insurance approvals.
Laurette
4/23/04 open rny
309/290/244/150
St. Vincent Charity
Cleveland, Ohio

I am in Connetiut, but origonally from southern Calif.
Patty S
=====
Have a great day!
Patty Schroeder

Hi
I'm from Wisconsin- Stevens Point- right in the middle of the state. I had my
open RNY July 22, and I have lost 26 pounds in less than 3 weeks. I'm also
older than most here, at 59. Even with the open I'd do it again!

Hi Pat,
Wishing you an uneventful surgery and speedy recovering. Your hard working
in preparing for the surgery has all been worth it. I have to tell you it has
been the best thing I've ever done for myself. Best of luck to you and keep
us posted. Will keep you in my thoughts and prayers as each of us will.
Laurette
4/23/04 open rny
309/290/244/150

Lost 18 lbs, dont know where. will keep updates

I am scheduled for surgery Wednesday August 11 at 7:30 a.m. After
ten months waiting I am starting to get nervous. Any words of
support or wisdom would help.
Pat in RI

It it okay for you to eat cheese? My doctor told me to stay away from cheese
because
it can stop your weight loss, along with milk.

Ok not sure if this will help or not. After you are done eating so to speak, do
you start sweating, heart racing, feel like your going to pass out cause your
getting hot flashs. Or going to the bathroom shortly there after with the "runs"
(sorry). If your doing any of these things your over eating. I myself at 15
months post op, can only eat about 2 crackers and a slice of cheese. One thing
you have to remember is protien first and foremost. All most all the doctors
will tell their patients this. I really recommend you going back in to talk with
yours or if they have a nutrisionist.
Kim
Open 5-5-03
243-113
Size 26-28 Now a 4
Amy <sunflower02742003@...
so if you are eating like crakers and cheese and having no problem
yet you dont feel like you are full and you keep eating and you dont
get sick and throw up, then that means your not over eating
correct????
amy

i eat pork skins for a snack... they have no carbs,no sugar, and go
down very well... just thought i would give a suggestion on snacks..
amy

Congratulations on your weight lose and WELCOME to the losing side. God bless
you. Margaret in Vegas
thecrystalwrist <thecrystalwrist@...
Aug.4th (that was the day I came home from
having the Lap Roux-Y. I was so excited to read the responses and all
of a sudden my monitor switched off and wouldnt go on!!! Argh! :)
Anyway, I have a new monitor and no fever anymore. Thankfully, the
awful chest and shoulder pain is gone:) I just can't seem to get rid
of this sharp pain near my right ovary. Like I said, I could've
pulled a muscle...who knows. I will see a physician in another week.
I have lost 23 pounds since July 28th and that makes me very happy!
Andrea

Reminder Reminder from the Calendar of Gastric_Bypass_Family
Weekly Group Chat!!
Monday August 9, 2004
7:00 pm - 10:00 pm
This event repeats every week.
Notes:

Hi. I posted a message on Aug.4th (that was the day I came home from
having the Lap Roux-Y. I was so excited to read the responses and all
of a sudden my monitor switched off and wouldnt go on!!! Argh! :)
Anyway, I have a new monitor and no fever anymore. Thankfully, the
awful chest and shoulder pain is gone:) I just can't seem to get rid
of this sharp pain near my right ovary. Like I said, I could've
pulled a muscle...who knows. I will see a physician in another week.
I have lost 23 pounds since July 28th and that makes me very happy!
Andrea

Barbie,
No need to apologize, this process can be very frustrating and I'm sure your
not alone in what your going through. I myself didn't go through Medicaid or
the psycho exams, but I do wish you lots of luck. You will be in my thoughts
and prayers for a speedy and good outcome. Try to keep your chin up.
Laurette
4/23/04 open rny
309/290/244/150

so if you are eating like crakers and cheese and having no problem
yet you dont feel like you are full and you keep eating and you dont
get sick and throw up, then that means your not over eating
correct????
amy

Which info Jennifer?
Carrie
Lap RNY April 9, 2004
348/276/140 (begin/current/goal)
www.carrieburns.net

Hi Everyone...I am so frustrated today I need to vent...I am working so hard to
get my surgery done and all i get is disappointments!I have to get all my
records and meet medicaids requirements before I can even apply for approval and
it has became a total nightmare! I cant find a psychiatrist that will accept
medicaid to do my evaluation. I can not afford to pay for it since all I have is
my disability!My PCP sent me to a psychiatrist that refered to medicaid patients
as **Charity Cases** and wouldnt do my evaluation. Whats the deal with ppl now
days. Dont they realize that just because I am Fat doesnt mean I dont have
feelings also!! I am still a human! Man Im So FREAKIN PISSED!Sorry Folks but i
needed someone to cry on! I want this surgery so bad.... I will not give up on
it! Hope you all have a great day!!!

Can someone tell me how we change our info when our weight changes.
I have yet to figure it out. Thanks.

My EX-FATHER IN LAW told me (while I was married) that if I lost the
weight that he would buy me a whole new wardrobe. Maybe I should
make a special trip to Texas and say, "Mannie, lets go shopping!!"
Although after being divorced 10 years I don't think that it would
really work. LOL.
Love, Sherry
My mother used to tell me that she would buy me a whole new

Anybody out there in the Nashville, TN, area? Or Springfield, TN,
area????

Anyone coming to tulsa for the all day seminar?
If you have any questions email me
Mythreesonz@...

Dallas, Texas!!
Lap RNY 12/18/2003
Down 133 lbs.

well, i finally found something i can eat that is only 2 g carbs, 2
grams sugar 5 grams pprotein in 2 tbl spoons... i eat it as a snack
with crakers.. yummy...
amy

Atlanta, GA
Carrie
Lap RNY April 9, 2004
348/276/140 (begin/current/goal)
www.carrieburns.net

Staci,
Congratulations on your surgery and glad to see your home already. I didn't
have any problem with my teeth, but maybe it's from the anthesitia. It
affects our body in so many ways. I know things did taste metalicy for awhile,
specially water. But that thankfully didn't last too long. Good luck and take
care.
Laurette
4/23/04 open rny
309/290/244/150

Hello everyone!
I had my surgery on 8-6-04, and my teeth are now super- sensitive..
Has anyone else experienced this? Does it go away? Any idea why they
hurt? I am worried that they will stay this way.. and of course, it
hurts. I would appreciate any information.
Thanks much!
Staci
Be Silly. Be honest. Be kind.
--Ralph Waldo Emerson

I would LOVE to hear from as many people as possible as to where
everybody is from....I'm in Tennessee, myself.

I just want to thank you for listening and responding in such a positive way.
You have been a "Godsend".
"Janet P. Whiddon" <janetpw@...
but it does comes. You lose less
muscle mass this way. I get sick on plain water too. Propel and SF
Koolaid help me tons. Janet
283/247/150 july 11, 2004

Victoria, I too am a slow loser, but it does comes. You lose less
muscle mass this way. I get sick on plain water too. Propel and SF
Koolaid help me tons. Janet
283/247/150 july 11, 2004

LOL!!!! Teresa, my grandmother used to say the same thing and everyone
telling me I should hold her to it, not like she set a time limit on it
:). Best of luck with everything!
Carrie
Lap RNY April 9, 2004
348/276/140 (begin/current/goal)
www.carrieburns.net

Well? I've made the 1st step. I've got an appointment Aug 16th for
my Health Risk Assessment. I'm so "antsy". I'm really, REALLY
ready for this! I'm ready for a whole new life! I want to be proud
of myself. But I also want my family and friends to be proud of
me. My mother used to tell me that she would buy me a whole new
wardrobe if I would lose weight. Well, here I am 47 years old....I
wonder if she's still planning on doing that. hahaha......Oh
well...thank God for Goodwill!!!!

Hi Jenise,
I am new here, having only joined over the weekend. I am thrilled for you. I
know how you feel as I have my appointment on the 18th of this month.
It sure is a good feeling to be selfish & know I am doing something good for me.
Sue in NY
dream_angel416 <dream416@...
Hi again,
I posted that I had my first appointment with the doctor in November,
they called the other day and moved the appointment up to the 23rd of
this month cause they had a cancelation!!! I can't wait to talk to
the doctor about everything...I just hope everything goes well. Just
wanted to tell someone cause I was happy....thanks for listen to be
babble.
Jenise

Hey Jenise,
That's so exciting! Same thing happened to me in July and now I am
already Insurance approved and awaiting surgery at the end of the
month or sometime next. Good luck!
Linda in AL.

Hi again,
I posted that I had my first appointment with the doctor in November,
they called the other day and moved the appointment up to the 23rd of
this month cause they had a cancelation!!! I can't wait to talk to
the doctor about everything...I just hope everything goes well. Just
wanted to tell someone cause I was happy....thanks for listen to be
babble.
Jenise

Hey Tricia,
I am familiar some with the area you live in. Our Foster son came
from Athens and had been in a home near Muscle Shoals. Too bad
there isn't any Doctors close to you so you wouldn't have to drive
so far. I would think Huntsville would have some. Husband say's
Caraway is a good hospital but didn't know the Dr. His ex-wife had
surgery in B'ham year ago July but for the life of me can't
remember. I think it was Brookwood. Anniston has at least 3
Doctors who specialize in GBS and some only do 3 surgeries a week.
I will hopefully have the surgery either at the end of August or
sometime in September. I missed a message the other day on the
machine for me to call concerning some dates at the end of the
month. Want to get it over with and get to the loosing side of
life. We have B/C B/S of AL too. I saw the Dr. on July 9th and had
the approval in the mail dated July 28th. I was so happy to see
that also. Luckly I have no major problems just the usual aches and
pains attributed to being overweight...oh yeah I have asthma...LOL!
I was so afraid without any major problems they wouldn't approve me
but thank goodness it didn't. I understand concerning the age
factor too. My husband's Mom is 71 and would love the surgery but
fears she wouldn't be approved for it. I have seen where they are
doing the surgery at that age but only for certain circumstances.
She's in CA and is a really bad diabetic.
Not aware of a boy scout camp but there is a big girl scout camp not
far from where we live. Its called Cottaquilla. Wonder if it
changed sexes at sometime. I have only been here since Jan. 2002
and dh came here during his Army day's at Ft. McClellan.
Glad to have met you and hope you keep in touch with me. If you

Hi Linda,
I live in the Shoals area about 60mi from Huntsville we live in Muscle Shoals.
I will be going to Birmingham for my surgery if everything goes to plan. I am
using Dr Dewitt at Caraway Hospital, he came highly recommended, there isn't
anyone in this area that does the surgery.
Have u all ready had your surgery? I see the Dr on the 22nd, I have Bluecross
and Blueshield of Alabama and from the way he talked in the seminar I shouldn't
have a problem but not getting my hopes up till they schedule my surgery then I
will get excited about it. I'm 54 so if I don't get it this yr most drs won't
do it after age 55.
My hubby used to have realatives in Anninston, his uncle was the caretaker of
the big boy scout camp there but he died back in the 80's.
Tricia
Linda Lou <iamllu@...
Where in AL. are you? I am in Anniston and will be having surgery
by Dr. Clifford Black at Stringfellow Hospital hopefully at the end
of the month or Sept. for sure. Are you near me?
Linda in AL.

Have fun and talk to you when you get back!
Julia in Delaware
Lap RNY 3/10/04
261/176/120

Amy,
I think we all lose at different paces. It sounds like we're fairly close in
our losing and I've been told I'm doing great and to stop worrying...lol. I
started at 290 at surgery and I'm down to 245. Surgery was on April 23rd.
I'm sure you've lost a lot of inches in there too, I know I have. I was wearing
a 30/32 and today I put on a jeans blouse that is a 22/24 and danced around
the room....lol. Your doing great and keep up the good work.
Laurette
4/23/04 open RNY
309/290/245/150

There is no norm to this in my opinion. Everyone loses at a
different rate depending on how much they need to lose and how their
bodies respond to the surgery.
Most people lose a big chunk of weight right after surgery because
of the water weight they lose then at about 4-6 weeks might go
into "hibernation period" then it starts up again and they lose more.
I wouldn't compare actual weight loss to any one person though. Some
people start out slow and end up fast and some start out fast and
end up slow. Some lose it in fits and starts. I am one of the fast
at first people and now it is slow and also coming off in fits and
starts so I am a combination of all of the above! Clear as mud to ya
now isn't it? :p
Colleen
Lap-RNY 11/03/03
315/195/???

i weighed at Curves today and since my surgery on June 23, 2004 this
the way it went.. Start 312, two weeks 193 my regular doctor visit on
July 15 288, and today August 6 at 282.. 30 lbs... does this sound
right to yall or am i a slow loser?
amy
dallas

Yesterday was my first post-op check-up and I only lost 10 pounds,
which was a disappointment, but at least it's off, not on. Possibly
the constipation had something to do with that. Obviously I'm not
going to be losing like the rest of you are reporting.
Otherwise my doctor gave me an A rating and I can move on to soft
foods. That's not going too well. I've tried chicken and tuna and
while the chicken stayed down (only 3 bites) the tuna came back up.
My how vomiting has changed! It happens so easily! Evidently I'm
just eating too much, although it was only 1/4 cup. I tend to return
to my pureed soups when stuff like that happens.
About quitting smoking--34 years ago I quit by being hypnotized. The
therapist told me when I called for the appointment, don't waste my
time and your money if you're not really ready to quit. Evidently I
was. The only times I've been tempted have been when people have
asked me to light a cigaret for them. It still tastes wonderful and
always will, so I don't do that anymore.
Thanks for the reminder about not drinking water 30 minutes before
and after eating and during. We were told that in nutrition class
and I simply forgot it.
About exercising--my doctors (and it looks like most of yours)
required me to lose weight before the surgery. The only way I can do
that even with diets, is exercise. For the past two years I've done
water aerobics, cardiac wellness classes with treadmill, exercycles,
rowing machines, cross-country machines, etc. This year I've just
been walking and going to Curves. For me it is essential to have a
buddy for the walking. We walk on a bike path along the coast with
hills and gorgeous scenery. I have to drive 10 miles to get there
every morning and 10 miles back, but I'm worth it. We do it rain or
shine and each of us knows the other is there waiting and it helps me
get out of bed and just do it. I'm a night person and getting up at
7:00AM is or was a real hardship for me. So I feel that I've already
made significant lifestyle changes as far as exercise goes and I
really missed the walking post surgery. I was just doing laps around
my 1/3 acre yard. It's really wonderful to hear the birds and smell
the early morning freshness every day. Since I'm retired I can
always come home and take a nap if needed.
I can't imagine not having all the classes and counseling my doctors
required before the surgery. And I continue going to my counselor
because in my opinion the hardest part is coming up. Learning to
live our new lives with our new bodies.
And, finally (!) I actually asked my surgeon if he really operated on
me or just scratched 5 tiny holes in my stomach. You're not alone in
that.

You have come to the right place. I highly recommend you do lots of research on
the surgery. It has its up and downs but each person and or doctor are
different. I had no complications, I had what they call open which means I was
cut from below the breasts to my belly button. I also had my gullbladder out at
the same time as the surgery. I would do the surgery over again in a heart beat.
I had type 2 also now I am on no medicine and its a great feeling. I am 5'2 and
went from 243 the day of my surgery wearing a 26-28, today I am now 15 months
post op (surgery was 5-5-03) and at 113 pounds and wearing a size 4 . You have
to understand this is only a tool. You have to c hange to. And thats when you
hear about people gaining weight back. There are bunchs of files on the home
page for you to read. Also go look at some of our pictures.
Kim
Open 5-5-03
243-113 I finally made my goal!!!!!!!!!
jenn24_08009@... wrote:
I have always had a weight problem. I have tried diet after diet to
help me loose weight. None of them have worked for me. I also found
out that I have type 2 diabeties. I think my best alternative would
be to have the gastric bypass surgery. I have read alot about this
and think this would be the best surgery for me. I would like to talk
with someone who has already had it done. I would like to know if
there are any risk factors.

I have always had a weight problem. I have tried diet after diet to
help me loose weight. None of them have worked for me. I also found
out that I have type 2 diabeties. I think my best alternative would
be to have the gastric bypass surgery. I have read alot about this
and think this would be the best surgery for me. I would like to talk
with someone who has already had it done. I would like to know if
there are any risk factors.

I am going out of town until Friday the 13th. I just wanted to let
you guys know because I have turned my email off and don't want you
to worry about where I am. Have a great week and I hope to catch up
with you next Friday.
Dora

That is not a funny question at all. I think that might be a normal
response if you aren't feeling a whole lot differently sweety.
Wait 'til you have lost 50-60 LBS then you will have no doubts in
your mind!
Colleen
Lap-RNY 11/03/03
315/195/???

I wholeheartedly agree!
Colleen
Lap-RNY 11/03/03
315/195/???

I've tried arobics, and, Tae bo. Swimming on occasion But I really dont lik=
e swimming
without a purpose either its kinda like just sitting there is the the water=
, so whenever
I do swim i do water arobics for my legs and stomach. I try the bike riding=
at the gym
but I also get the same feeling of going nowhere but I wonder if I did buy =
a bike if
that would feel different. The only thing that really works for me is danci=
ng and
correagraphing dances but i think mainly because i enjoy that. I dont know.=
I mean I
do exercise but in my mentality its because I have to or this surgery's a w=
aste. But I
just want to enjoy it so I dont always feel like i HAVE to but that I WANT =
to.
Jennifer
Surgery Date
3/17/03

I'll admit Jennifer I hate walking for the exact same reason your
stated below. I will do kickboxing, swimming, strength training, you
name it, I don't like walking with no purpose. Have you tried doing
exercises other than walking? What about swimming? Bike riding?
Carrie
Lap RNY April 9, 2004
348/275/140 (begin/current/goal)
www.carrieburns.net

I just hate to exersice. I know I have to and I have but It just never seems to
get fun
and I dread it all the time even if I do see results from it I still just hate
it!!!
I mean I have to walk every day because the doctor yells at me if I dont, and
its not
like I can't do it i just feel like when I walk that if im not going to a
destination then
its a waste and a hell of a boring walk, but If I was stranded somewhere and I
needed
to get home I would not even have a problem walking 5 miles to get there, but
getting ready and knowing that i have to go walk 5 mile for nothing just urks me
and
I end up stalling all day just to get out there and do it. THats why I hate
treadmills. I
know there great because there convient for you home but to me just walking in
place
and not going anywhere irratates me and then i never do my complete miles
because
I get bored. I' ve tried to accually have somewhere to go when I walk so that I
can
enjoy it better but I dont normally have the time to really go anywhere because
of my
work schedule and I really just need to get it over with. Do anyone have any
suggestions that will make it at least seem more enjoyable to work out?
Thanks
Jennifer
Surgery Date
3/17/03

actually, that same thought crossed my mind also, because i was up walking the
minute i was in my room with no pain.. the only problem was the week of being
sore.. I didnt hurt not one time through out the whole process... just sore...
but yes.. i thought the same thing.. how funny..
amy 6-23-04
Celeste <wildwomandaisy@...
Hello
Perhaps after my last note I might not get much of an answer about this
but.....
Here I am one week after surgery and I was talking to my medical group
yesterday and had to ask if they really did the surgery on my stomach.
Did anyone else have the feeling that maybe things were too good, that maybe
they really didn't do all that major surgery that you were in for? Might this
be a side effect of the lap process when you can't really see a huge incision
then you might have doubts about what happened internally?
See, this is a funny question, but I thought I would ask.
Celeste
lap RNY 7/30/04
384/364/???/170 (beginning/surgical weigh in/current/goal)

Celeste,
I think you are right on the money. We have to change our habits or there will
be no success. I am ashamed of the trash that I have put in my body over the
years. I look at the "honeymoon phase" as a way to ingrain my new eating
habits. I am a firm believer that if we start over from where we started and
rebuilt our eating habits we would have better control. And I will admit my
greatest self-defeating issue is the fact that I am so heavy that I get hungry
all the time. How wonderful will it be to try and change my eating habits
without being hungry constantly. I look at this as a golden opportunity to
change a lot of things about me.
Dora in Tennessee
Lap/Open RNY 9/20/2004
Vanderbilt Hospital

Hello
Perhaps after my last note I might not get much of an answer about this
but.....
Here I am one week after surgery and I was talking to my medical group
yesterday and had to ask if they really did the surgery on my stomach.
Did anyone else have the feeling that maybe things were too good, that maybe
they really didn't do all that major surgery that you were in for? Might this
be a side effect of the lap process when you can't really see a huge incision
then you might have doubts about what happened internally?
See, this is a funny question, but I thought I would ask.
Celeste
lap RNY 7/30/04
384/364/???/170 (beginning/surgical weigh in/current/goal)

I am trying to drink my shakes but I can't drink a whole one. I can
eat about 1/4 cup of food a day, and I can not drink all my water I
get really full. It doesn't hurt I just throw up. Not I am starting
to get head aches. Thank you for the help . By the way my name is
Dana

Hello
I have noticed the conversations about nutritionists and psychological exams
and I am surprised that anyone would think of going through any of this without
either, even if they are not mandated by their insurance.
This is not just a surgery to fix one thing and then you go on like usual.
If you believe that then from what I have seen you will probably fail. They
don't disconnect the part of you (your brain and desire) that may cause you to
eat inappropriately in the first place, so unless you completely re-train your
mind, and body to work with this new tool you will have a difficult time at
success. But all of that is my opinion, although I am sure someone out there
has done surveys on past surgical weight loss patients with conclusions being
about the same.
I am scared for patients, or possible patients who are in the back of their
mind saying, "I don't eat that much", or "I will lose the weight and once it is
gone I will never gain it again" because those are the same thought patterns
that may got most of us in this situation in the first place. It is through the
psychological exam and 10 years of personal therapy that I now know I am not my
own best judge of what is going on in my life. I will always choose to look at
me in my best light even if I am also the hardest person in the world on myself.
I know that genetics plays a huge role in whether we will be obese or not,
but that is only part of the story also. It has to be true that if you have the
genetic dispostion to be obese but are not overeating or eating inappropriately
you won't gain weight. It is like just because you have a gene to be an
alcoholic if you don't drink you won't become one.
I would embrace, welcome, and expect nothing less from my surgeon and
doctors than to have nutritionist, and thorough psychological exams and follow
them to the letter. This is not a 'one off' fix (that the surgery will cause
the weight loss and its done). In all my three years of research I have also
found one really scary detail, that being that those that work to get back to
their regular foods as soon as possible, even if in small amounts over the long
run usually have had the least success. This is a change of eating for life,
not just for the weight loss.
I will apologize now if this note seems a bit harsh, but after going through
the surgery one week ago, I now take all this very seriously and thought that
some of this information might help others.
Celeste

Not a dumb question at all! Everyone is different and really you are
not that far out from Surgery. Give it time.
What types of food are you eating and are you taking vitamins and
drinking protein drinks? Does it hurt when you eat or can you just
not eat very much... because if that's the case the surgery is
working! You should not be able to eat too much at less than 4
months out.
Colleen
Lap-RNY 11/03/03
315/195/???

I had my surgery on the 19th of April and I can sitll hardly eat any
food at all, Can anyone help me out? I am new to this group so I
might be asking a dumb question.

Hi Patty,
I know what you mean about the lack of sleep. I lay in bed at night,
excited about the future. But also a little bit of fear has set in.
Not that I would even consider changing my mind. Just alot of things
to think about. I have my surgery Aug, 17th.. so please let me know
how yours goes... I wish you the best of luck... and a few good
nights sleep too
Vicki
vickip@...

Hey Tricia,
Where in AL. are you? I am in Anniston and will be having surgery
by Dr. Clifford Black at Stringfellow Hospital hopefully at the end
of the month or Sept. for sure. Are you near me?
Linda in AL.

congrats on the approval letter, I found out the navy
covers the surgury and tummy tuck, my doc waits a year
to referr to get the tummy tuck, i go in Aug 18th i am
excited just get a bit too much time when i am laying
in bed and think about what could happen. just prayed
and i was able to relax better. If any one has any
advice about sleeping better. Hubby is deployed so i
am alone too.
Patty S.
=====
Have a great day!
Patty Schroeder

Countdown.. 47 days.. Got the letter from my insurance saying they
were covering the surgery, and also down the line.. My insurance
covers a *tummy tuck* when you lose 80 or more pounds.. I mean, I
don't know if I'm going to get one down the line.. (not even
thinking about that right now).. Anyway, just wanted to say hi and
share my joy of the countdown to freedom.. :)

hi i am pennie in lower alabama
they told me right in the hospital after my surgery that i could have grits when
i was on pureed foods and i could put cheese in them as long as they were just a
little thinner than normal. i hope this helps u. you can im meat
robnpen1989@...
pennie leatherwood
in alabama
may 28,2004
312/260/150

Is is OK to have my fill of complex carbs, or will that cause
dumping? I have had only tiny amounts so far, with no problem. I'm
wondering about things like spelt or whole wheat flour, oats, wheat
berries, whole grains and things like that. Has anyone had problems
with these or the like?
Thanks!
Alicia
11/18/03
284/249 preop/159

Well I am new to this, I am just getting started. I have about 2
months till my surgery. Did any of you think well maybe I will try
1 more diet before you did your surgery? Now I am getting the things
done they said I had to do, like stop smoking, give up my diet
pepsi, tea, gum. I dont really understand the whole give up tea, it
is unsweetened. Can someone explain it to me. Sorry this is so long,
I am just full of questions. What do you get to eat right after the
surgery? I am worried it will be milk which I hate.
Thanks for any advise you can give me....Mary

Liquid Tylenol or Extra Strength Tylenol
Carrie
Lap RNY April 9, 2004
348/277/140 (begin/current/goal)
www.carrieburns.net

wow congratulations on such a great weight loss!!!!! can i ask where you
started and what your at now? i appear to be a slow loser, i'm 3-1/2 months out
and only 45 lbs down since surgery and 65 lbs down since the first of the year.
what are you doing to have such a great loss? am i doing something wrong?
laurette
4/23/04 open rny
309/290/245/150

What's the best thing to take for a headache?

Amy,
You made me homesick while reading your post...Jack in the Box!
Miss the ol' guy! And Whataburger...LOL! Have a good one!
Linda in AL.

Didn't see the do not drink 30 minutes before a meal, during a meal,
or after a meal for 30 minutes rule in there. It's an important one!
Colleen
Lap-RNY 11/03/03
315/195/???

Been reading a lot of questions about what we can eat and when. My
doctor gave me pages and pages of post surgery instructions (as well
as nearly a book of pre-surgery instructions and requirements!)
Boiled down, here it is:
First two weeks: Immediately 40 grams of protein daily for women
and 60 for men.
Blenderized diet, not a liquid diet. Start vitamins today!
1. Take small swallows. Avoid all solid foods.
2. Wait 5-10 seconds or so between each swallow to make sure things
have made their way into the stomach and that you haven't exceeded
the capacity of the pouch.
3. In order to keep hydrated sip liquids through much of the day.
All fluids should be essentially sugar free. If you need to drink
juices, dilute them at least in half. Failure to do so may produce
dumping symptoms.
4. Keep your protein up! Liquids during this time should contain
protein.
5. Begin your vitamins.
Weeks 2-8
This is a prime time for depression to set in, the What Have I Done?
syndrome. This is normal and will get better.
1. Begin adding solid frood, but chew it until liquid. Begin with
soft fish, soft steamed vegetables, moist eggs, thick soups Bread
and red meat should be the last two foods you try and probably not
for the first 2 months.
2. Wait 10 seconds or so between each swallow until you are sure
things have made it through and your pouch isn't over full.
3. If you have the blues, ask for help. Often talking (or e-
mailing) someone who has been through it can make all the difference.
4. Begin your iron, continue all the other vitamins.
Months 2-12 "The Honeymoon"
This is when you really should make the most of the operation.
Weight loss is often effortless during this time.
Develop the habits that will make the operation work for you forever.
This means that you must establish the activity, routines and eating
patterns that will allow you to be successful. Do not waste this
opportunity to put the operations to work for you. If you do not do
it during these months, it will not happen!
Rules for months 2-12
1. Get into the good habits now, while the hunger is at bay and the
weight loss is effortless.
2. Remember the Golden Rules of Weight Loss every single day.
3. A perfect diet consists of:
a. High quality protein 3 times a day (lean poultry, fish, beans,
lentils, protein shakes, etc.) Try to avoid the fatty meats.
Lentils are an almost perfect food.
b. Raw or very lightly cooks brightly colored vegetables with lunch
and dinner - spinach, chard, asparagus are great foods. A chicken
salad with spinach is close to perfect.
Sorry this is so long, but it seems people need this information.
Today, two weeks and one day post Lap RNY I tried steamed chicken
and veggies and was only able to eat a few bites. I can drink a cup
of pureed soup (lentil, of course!) but 3 bites of chicken and I'm
burping and extremely full. Thankfully I didn't throw up, but it
was a definite possibility.
My stomach is now a bit sore, externally, but I've been walking and
pulling weeds and vacuuming, so that might account for that. My
only other problem has been constipation and they recommend OTC
medication for that. I just hope it's a passing thing and not
forever.
Hope all this info helps someone.

Walking is definately the best thing to get rid of the gas and yes
your belly is probably still full of gas from surgery. I know mine
was for a week or more afterwards!
The pain will subside and you will start to feel better each day.
Just be patient with yourself and get plenty of rest and walk a lot,
drink a lot and try to keep a positive outlook. It will all go a
long way towards good healing!
Colleen
Lap-RNY 11/03/03
315/195/???

Andrea,
I had open rny but I know several that had theirs lap and we all had
excessive gas in the beginning. That's one of the reasons why you need to walk
as
much as you can. Walking helps get rid of the gas. Glad your home and doing
better. Good luck and God bless!
Laurette
4/23/04 open rny
309/290/245/150

Hello. I had lap roux y last Wednesday and I am finally home today. I
had a drain the whole time and it was finally taken out today. the
wound is so sensitive and irritated now. Plus, I may have pulled an
abdominal muscle on my right side! My temp is 100 and the gas/
hetartburn in my left shoulder/chest is painful and nonstop. The
surgeon wasnt too concerned. Do many people have these problems in
the beginning? I even take the gas chewables but they don help;
especially when I lay down. Could the gasses from the lap still be in
me?
Andrea

Hello again!
I am finally home again. I left and had my surgery in Mexico on July
6, and was immediately taken for surgery. I had it around 3:30 that
afternoon. I stayed in the hospital for 10 days, I had immediate
complications and had to be re-operated on to repair it. I am not sure
what happened except my tube was placed wrong and I was screaming in
pain. Thank God they put me out and repositioned it and re checked all
of my incisions and cuts and tubes and everything. The hospital was
beautiful and the staff simply doted on me! They gave the best of
care, always came quickly if needed, never left me without anything I
needed. I ended up in Mexico for 3 weeks instead of 1, and had daily
nurse visits and regularly the doctor would stop in to check on me. I
was told to expect 3 months of feeling weak, and after that I will
gradually get stronger, and I have been pretty weak. I had to have
wheelchairs the whole way home.. I am so happy to be home... Just my
update, oh, and I am down 42 pounds already! 2 days until my 1 month
anniversary of surgery. OK, naptime..
Staci
7-6-04
surgery in mexico
The other sports are just sports. Baseball is a love.
--Bryant Gumbel

Staci, I'm sooooo sorry that you had complications like that. I have
been looking for you to give us an update. Couldn't remember your name,
just remembered Mexico. Congrats on the weightloss, now it's just time
for you rest. If you need anything at all just shoot it out to the
board :). Best wishes.
Carrie
Lap RNY April 9, 2004
348/277/140 (begin/current/goal)
www.carrieburns.net

There are also a lot of good flavored waters out there. Some have
artificial sweetners in them so I tend to not drink those as often
but the Glaceau Smartwaters are good and do not have sweetners
added. Especially watermelon. mmmm.

I don't know if this has been asked or not. But can we have fruit? And if
so what kind.
Pam

I've noticed some change in myself in this area as well. To be
honest I was terrified I'd end up with none! I had a breast
reduction six years ago (52DD to a 44C). I had gained quite a bit
of weight since the reduction so I'm not sure exactly what size I
was - I couldn't find any bras that fit, except sports bras and
those were a 48. Anyway I'm 15 weeks out, 91 pounds down (309 down
to 218) and I'm now wearing a 38C.
Hopefully the weight loss will continue without my losing 'my girls'
LOL

Hmmm....could have been either not chewing well enough or something
simply didn't sit well (I've had that happen one time).
Carrie
Lap RNY April 9, 2004
348/277/140 (begin/current/goal)
www.carrieburns.net

The staff at my office even wants to consider Diet Coke as counting for
water when you're out far enough. I don't agree with that, but I think
Crystal Light (as well as SF Kool Aid and others) and decaf tea and
coffee certainly count as water.
Carrie
Lap RNY April 9, 2004
348/277/140 (begin/current/goal)
www.carrieburns.net

Those liquids DO count towards your water but you need to be careful about
drinks with caffeine (and some teas have caffeine) because it can dehydrate you
so caffeinated drinks usually don't provide you with as much water/liquid as
non-caffeinated, some-but not as much.
Bridget
Amy <sunflower02742003@...
i was told that drinking decaff tea and crystal light is the same as
drinking water because all it is doing is giving the water a flavor..
Is this correct? Because to be honest, i dont drink alot of water,
but i do the tea and crystal light..
amy

no, i dont drink while i eat, but after i started feeling full i stopped, and i
sat therebecause of the discomfort in my chest waiting for the food to go down,
but al of a sudden i got nausated and ended up in the rest room...
i felt much better afterward though..
amy
Carrie Sagel Burns <carrie@...
Ohhhhh, much better Amy :). So you did actually vomit or was it only
discomfort? Were you drinking while you ate?
Carrie
Lap RNY April 9, 2004
348/277/140 (begin/current/goal)
www.carrieburns.net

Just thought I'd share this with the ladies. As I lose weight, I'm also
losing "the girls" (barely a "B" now). I went out looking for
bras...how depressing. What I decided to do was buy a bra extender
(found at the local fabric shop...$1.67) and took it with me. I bought a
bra that was one size too small and used the extender...perfect fit.
That way I'm not wasting money on new bras...Once I lose more weight I
can take the extender off and get more use out of that bra. FWIW.
Robin
Lap RNY
4/27/04
260/204/140-160

i was told that drinking decaff tea and crystal light is the same as
drinking water because all it is doing is giving the water a flavor..
Is this correct? Because to be honest, i dont drink alot of water,
but i do the tea and crystal light..
amy

Ohhhhh, much better Amy :). So you did actually vomit or was it only
discomfort? Were you drinking while you ate?
Carrie
Lap RNY April 9, 2004
348/277/140 (begin/current/goal)
www.carrieburns.net

Forgive me, but am I reading that right Amy? You had surgery 7/15 and
had queso and chips last night? I don't have a problem with cheese dip
and chips now, but didn't attempt until 2-1/2 months out or so, my
doctor would have flipped if I tried that at 3 weeks out, but all
doctors and patients for that matter are different.
My best guess would be that you tried too much too soon. One word of
advise is just to take it SLOW! You have the rest of your life to try
queso and chips :). Have 1 chip, not 4 and see how it sits when you
chew very well, just wait and see how it feels before continuing. It's
all just re-learning how to eat to maintain comfort.
Carrie
Lap RNY April 9, 2004
348/277/140 (begin/current/goal)
www.carrieburns.net

no, i had my surgery June 23, 2004..
Carrie Sagel Burns <carrie@...
right Amy? You had surgery 7/15 and
had queso and chips last night? I don't have a problem with cheese dip
and chips now, but didn't attempt until 2-1/2 months out or so, my
doctor would have flipped if I tried that at 3 weeks out, but all
doctors and patients for that matter are different.
My best guess would be that you tried too much too soon. One word of
advise is just to take it SLOW! You have the rest of your life to try
queso and chips :). Have 1 chip, not 4 and see how it sits when you
chew very well, just wait and see how it feels before continuing. It's
all just re-learning how to eat to maintain comfort.
Carrie
Lap RNY April 9, 2004
348/277/140 (begin/current/goal)
www.carrieburns.net

Congratulations, on the appt, when i started the
process of getting all this done i thought it would
take so long and things went by pretty quick from my
referral date to the date i go into surury was 3
months and 16 days. things seem to have worked out for
me i have been weighing this for over a year to even
get the nerve to dicuss it. Now i go in Aug 18th. I am
so excited i have an awesome Dr( Dr Bell ) at Yale
hospital. he specializes in this surgury and Oh My the
Navy insurance actually pays for it !!
This site has been awesome. there i things i do not
think about then as i read messages i get info to
things i never thought about.
I am so excited to have the surgury and be able to
post my sucess stories.
Good luck with the rest of your appt's
Patty S
=====
Have a great day!
Patty Schroeder

Hi again...
Since I went to the support group on Monday..and saw the doctor, she
said to make an appointment to meet with her and I got one in
November, but if anyone cancels...I can go sooner. Hopefully
everything is going to work out for me. Also I wanted to thank
everyone for the emails welcoming me to the group...and I'm sure soon
enough I'll have a lot of questions to ask everyone. Thanks again!
Jenise

Very nice pics!! Congratulations!!!!
Alice hardestyal hardesty@...

Argh! I definately was not insinuating that you were using it as an
easy way out! I was saying that is what they look for in a Psyche
eval and that some people do believe that about this surgery or do
not realize the amount of work we have to put into it so they have
to be really careful about weeding people out and sometimes will
assume a bit too much.
I was more or less giving general info to anyone new who might be
reading my post about what the psyche eval is for and then also
addressing you in there as well about your depression issues.
I am sorry if you took it another way and definately do support you
in this but if they feel like you may not be a good candidate you
probably need to address those issues before the surgery is all I
was saying.
Maybe you could arrange to have 3 months of counseling sessions
surrounding weight and depression issues or something? Would they
agree to that you think?
There is generally a waiting period right now with the good surgeons
anyway so the 3 months would probably not be so bad?
Hope everything works out for you.
Colleen
Lap-RNY 11/03/03
315/195/???

I am not having this surgery thinking that it is an easy way out of
many of my problem, but I do feel it will help in covering one major
problem. thank you all for your help and advice, but I know the
surgery will not fix all my problems but it will fix one major one,
One of my main reason for the surgery is to get a job, I feel if I
do get it and lose the weight I am going to be able to get a good
desent job and not have no one look at me at every interview I go
into and say well we are not hiring yet just putting a face with the
application. I am not taking the surgery because I feel it is an
easy way to weight lost, because I know many of the risk and
complication with this surgery. I am 37 and weigh over 380 pounds
and I have tried everything since 1995 to lose the weigh but never
can. I also have a tendency to over eat when I am depress or upset,
but with this surgery I know that if I do that I will definitely
suffer and I am the one that will have to go through recovering. I
think I am ready and I will have a lot of support with you guys in
this group and my family, my family is and will be my biggest
support. And I am just gonna also rely on God and prayer first and
fore most.
Again thank all of you for your responses.

Ok everyone I finally added pictures, I have my two days before surgery my six
months out and my 9 months out and then a year. Also my tats and my kids oh and
hubby is in one of the pictures. Its under Kim Graby
Kim
Open 5-5-03
243-116
Size28 Now 4

Hey Everyone! Hope ya'll are doing great! I finally found out
which month I am looking at for surgery..September! No date yet but
will find out either next week or the following after they get their
September surgeries scheduled. Getting really excited now!
I was asked a question today about the surgery that I couldn't
answer. And I hope they were referring to Lap instead of Open so
here goes. Do they go through the muscle or under the muscle when
they do the surgery? I'd appreciate any input you can give me.
Thanks in advance.
Linda in AL.

In my experience that is what the psche eval is for. They have to
let you know all the cons of the surgery so you will know what you
are up against and you will need to know how to handle each scenario
should it come up.
Weight loss surgery is not an easy solution to being overweight.
There are many factors involved in this process and some people are
more apt to be able to handle all of the possibilities than others
and this is what they are looking for in a psyche eval.
After a certain amount of weight is lost you have to work just as
hard as anyone else to get the rest of it off and to keep it off and
many people do not understand this going into it.
If you do have problems surrounding depression that need to be dealt
with it is so much better to deal with them BEFORE the surgery. it
will make things go so much easier for you in the end.
You want what's best for yourself in the end don't you? I know it
seems like this surgery is the answer to your problems right now but
really it only fixes the outside of us not the inside of us.
The depression doesn't just disappear once we lose weight nor do all
the other problems we have inside.
I am dealing with my compulsions to overeat and eat the wrong foods
every day still. It is an ongoing battle and one I will have to
fight the rest of my life. Surgery didn't fix that and it didn't fix
the reasons for my overeating.
Take care of the inside and worry about the outside after. You will
be glad you did.
Colleen
Lap-RNY 11/03/03
315/195/???

Applesauce is good but it sometimes has a lot of sugar in it so be
careful about that. I was told to keep my sugar content under 15 gms
per serving but I always stuck to under 10 for the first several
months plus I could never eat what they considered to be a whole
serving of anything anyway so keep that in mind as well when reading
packages.
Do you know if you will be on a liquid diet for awhile or just a
soft diet? Every surgeon varies on this. I was on a soft diet after
I left the hospital for about 2 weeks and then I went to a "as
tolerated" diet but was told to stick to protein first and be very
careful and introduce foods one at a time in very small amounts to
test out the effects on my pouch.
I ate a lot of peanut butter on toast, nuts, cheese, seafood (which
I tolerated better than anything else believe it or not), and yogurt
w/cereal.
I looked in the grocery store for the lowest sugar content of
everything I ate and I was careful when I ate any fruit to have it
in small amounts because of the sugar.
It turns out that I never dumped from sugar even once but I wasn't
willing to take the chance plus I thought it would create good
habits for myself to watch the sugar intake.
As for soft diet items when you first get home to have on
hand...thats a toughie because I found that my tastebuds were all
off and the things I "thought" I would like to have when I got home
were not at all what I wanted.
My tastes totally changed around for the first 4 months so my
suggestion would be to just have a minimum amount beforehand to come
home to until you find out what you can tolerate and what you will
feel like eating.
Hope this helped. I know I tend to ramble. :p
Colleen
Lap-RNY 11/03/03
315/195/???

Well crystal light is good to drink. And carnation instant protein drinks. And
you could try baby food. But I have had people tell me they taste terrible. I
would suggest maybe getting a cheap blender and bending regular food to a puree.
You might only be able to eat one or two bites. And you might try apple sause. I
have tried pasta but have had back luck with it. And a multivitam You need to
take this everyday to get your vitamins.
I am glad that you are getting the surgey. I had it done 2 yrs ago and I am so
happy with it . And now almost due with my 2nd child. And do not get upset in
a yr or so you will be able to eat regular food but not as much. Oh another
thing when you can eat at resturants again. You might ask your Surgen about
getting a card so you can get a kids meal. And some buffet places give you the
kids rate.
Kim
(Iowa)
Post op 2yrs and counting.
Dr. david Coster Grinnell Iowa
Alana <lanagurrl3@...
Another question.. anyone know a list of things that I should buy to
have to eat/drink when I get home from the hospital?? I'm sure I can
figure it out, just wondering if any suggestions..

Another question.. anyone know a list of things that I should buy to
have to eat/drink when I get home from the hospital?? I'm sure I can
figure it out, just wondering if any suggestions..

Thanks, I just bought a huge jug and wanted to start using it before
the surgery.. Another question, before the surgery did your doctor
put you on a 45g of carbs a day?? Just wondering..

We can use Slenda according to my nutritionist.
Dora in Tennessee
Lap/Open RNY 9/20/2004
Vanderbilt Hospital
451/445.6/150

I'm confused.. Can we use Splenda or not??
-Lost for a minute-

Hi! I had my surgery on 7/15. I'm having trouble getting down the
water, and I think I might be eating too much. I'm at the point
where I'm not sure what I should be concentrating on. For instance,
today I've had 24 oz of water, 8 oz of protein. I had cream of wheat
(2 tablespoons) and for lunch I had 2 oz of shreded beef and 2
tablespoons of mashed potatoes. I'm always hungry. HELP! Everytime
I drink the water my stomach starts cramping. Is this normal? I'm
really getting disgusted and depressed, plus I'm still sore.

Carolyn,
Thank you. I was looking for some books myself. I will look into these.
Dora

Thanks, Carolyn. I picked it up at the library
yesterday and am just starting to read it.
glo

sorry Carrie, I've don't drink coffee or tea so i would have no idea. good
luck in your search though.
laurette
4/23/04 open rny
309/290/247/150

Just out of curiosity...does anyone know of a protein powder that could
be mixed into coffee? I tried the unflavored protein at GNC and it's
not too bad, not too great either. What I was hoping was that I could
find something that was protein-based but acted like Benefiber,
dissolving right in. Anyone try something like this?
Carrie
Lap RNY April 9, 2004
348/277/140 (begin/current/goal)
www.carrieburns.net