Health Info

Hi Melannie,
What she was told is very possible from what I understand. I had my surgery
at St. Vincent Charity in Cleveland, Ohio, had my surgery on Friday morning
and came home Monday morning. I had no drains, no staples. I was not required
to be on any special diet prior to surgery except that I had signed a contract
not to gain any weight from my first consultation with the doctor. So what
your mom was told does sound right. We have to remember that every doctor is
different in what they tell their patients. Good luck and congratulations on
your weight loss. Looks like you've done quite well yourself.
Laurette
4/23/04 open rny
309/290/238/150

Sorry gang .. with Kaiser you must lose 5% of your weight .. not
10%.. Oooopps. :-)

Melony
my surgeon told me it is a 2 day visit and i will have
a drain, i go Oct 6th, but that is what he told me
July 13th,
Patty S
=====
Have a great day!
Patty Schroeder

Patty,
Thanks for your kind words. I am grateful that I did not have to go
through the rejection like so many folks do. Just know you're not
alone through this and there are many of us praying for you and your
family. October will be here before you know it. Keep the faith that
all will work out as it was intended. Take care and feel free to
drop me a note anytime.
Ray

just a curious ? i had my gastric bypass 1 1/2 year ago. i was in
the hospital for 5 days and had a drain. my mom recently went for a
consultation to a different doctor. they told her that she would be
in the hosital for 2 days and no drain. they also told her that she
would have to be on opti-fast a week before. i did not. is this
possible?
Melannie21
310/190/150
lap-rxy 1/13/03

Ray,
I just looked at the pics and you really look great,
such an inspiration to so many, I am still waiting for
the surgery, i was supposed to have it August 18th
after my pre op. I got a call that my insurance denied
it, beside the weight i also have to hav ehigh blood
pressure, arthriis or diabetes Etc.. and have been
medicated and i have to make sure it is documented, So
my doc is going to run test and make sure it gets
documented and put in a new referral for Surgery Oct
6th, hopefully that will work, ( i guess with hubby
being deployed it was not meant to happen) because he
will be home for the Oct 6th surgery date, i just hope
i can do well like you are, i may be emailing you for
advice ,
thanks for listening to me ramble.
Take care
Patty S
=====
Have a great day!
Patty Schroeder

Jaydee,
When you get to the point your at, you do feel like you've had
enough. But never give up! This is a fight for your life, and I
know you can win. No matter what think positive. I've been
there and believe me I thought there wasn't anything more I
could do. In Psalms 91, "keep your trust in God", and no
matter what, you'll always come out on top! You'll be in my
prayers. I'll keep in touch with you.
RSL

Hi all!
I'm new and pre-op and (if I get my ins. approval) I plan to be
operated on by Dr. Neil Marymor at the Barix Center in Langshorne,
PA. (I live in upstate NY, however) I was just wondering if anyone
else had Dr. Marymor and how they felt about him and the Barix
Center. I've never had surgery so I'm REALLY nervous. I have panic
attacks and I'm worried about being restrained, waking up on a
ventilator, general loss of control situations like that just freak
me out. Hope the doc has good drugs! Thanks for your help.
Jolynn in NY
Pre-op 367/??/140 (I can dream, can't I?)

Hi all
Went to have the stress test today and as usual something happens. The dr blew
my vein when he put the thalium in my arm and could not give me anymore.
So here I am waiting and waithing and waiting!!!!!! I have been on this journey
for over a year now and every time I get close something happens. Do you think
that maybe I am not suppose to have wls. I said if it was Gods will so maybe it
is not his will but mine. I am begining to doubt myself and everything I have
worked for. I am just tired of this waiting game. I wish I knew what to do. I
would like to crawl in a hole and never come out. I am tired of waiting,
waiting and life is passing me by. I don't do certain thing because of my weight
and I keep thinking some day. I quess that day will never come.
Oh well life goes on ( and still passes by) Thanks for letting me vent and now
its time to go cry some more. There has to be a lesson in this. I am just not
getting it i quess. Oh well goodnite.
Jaydee

Oh Linda, don't panic girlfriend. I'm 4 months out today and I still can't
get that all in....lol. Eventually I'm supposed to be between 1,000 and 1,200.
I average around 800 right now. I think for the first few weeks out I was
lucky to get 400.
Laurette
4/23/04 open rny
309/290/238/150
St. Vincent Charity
Cleveland, Ohio

FYI:
Just posted a couple of photos. One with me and my son last year at
the Red Rocks, me at about 420. The other is day 204 (today) post-op
at 292.
I can finally see the difference, and the kids just flipped out at
looking at the vacation pic, they just forgot how big dad really was.
Folder name is Ray W - Omaha
-Ray

Hi Celeste,
Your doing so good. I hope to join you in about two weeks on the
loosing side of things but wish it was where you are instead of here
for now...LOL! I love the Rockies!
Hugs, Linda

Laurette,
That amount of calories daily isn't from day 1 is it? When will we
be told to start consuming that amount? Sorry but I was just
starting to panic ahead of the game. Wondered how I was going to do
that right away after surgery.
Hugs, Linda in AL.

Celeste,
CONGRATS girl - woo hoo! Excellent - keep up the great work.
Hugs,
Ella
Celeste <wildwomandaisy@...
Hello
I just wanted to share that I went for my four-week post operative check up
today and I am a big loser. Yes, I have lost 49 pounds so far!!!
The other good news is I get to add other soft foods to my diet, like
chicken, fish, potatoes, cheese, milk, and even some crackers. It was a good
day all around. I wish every one as much success.
Celeste
lap RNY 7/30/04
384/333/170 (beginning/current/goal)

I know exactly how you feel. My doctor wanted
me to have 3 sleep studies and future ones. Me
and my family thought it would get to the point
that the insurance company was paying so much
for my sleep studies, that we thought they
wouldn't pay for my surgery. It's been a year
since I started all this. And my surgeon is
finally scheduling me. I can't wait. It is very
hard to stay patient through all of this, but in
the long run it's all worth it. I hope everything
goes alright with yours.
RSL

Hello
I just wanted to share that I went for my four-week post operative check up
today and I am a big loser. Yes, I have lost 49 pounds so far!!!
The other good news is I get to add other soft foods to my diet, like
chicken, fish, potatoes, cheese, milk, and even some crackers. It was a good
day all around. I wish every one as much success.
Celeste
lap RNY 7/30/04
384/333/170 (beginning/current/goal)

Vicki,
Welcome home and so glad to hear everything went well for you. Keep up the
good work and take it easy. So good to have a great support team surrounding
you too, isn't it? Well you take care and keep us posted.
Laurette
4/23/04 open rny
309/290/238/150
St. Vincent Charity
Cleveland, Ohio

hi everyone,
Well I am home after surgery. I had it on the 17th. Everything went
very well. The staff at the BTC were great and new what to do to
make me comfortable. I was surprised with the iv fluids I gained 13
lbs. I was concerned about that, but on thursday after passing
my "no-leak" test, they gave me a popsicle and juice and since I
kept it down, the iv was removed. SO by time I left I had lost all
13 and was back to where I was. So I am home with good pain
medicine. not eating more then a few bites of jello at a meal. But
everyday feeling better. I have lost 9 lbs since coming home friday.
So I think I am doing great. I start on full liquids tomorrow,
looking forward to that. Jello is getting a little old. My hubby and
family have been great. Hubby's been with me for every walk so far.
Tonight will my first trip out there without him, cause he is back
to work. But I am up to walking around the block, and feel pretty
good afterward as long as I take my pain med about 1 hour before
walking.
So , so far so good.. I was a little urppy in the hospital. but been
fine since I have been home. I will post more as I continue. I hope
everyone that was due to have the surgery around now is doing good.
take care
Vicki
298/289/???
vickip@...

Reminder Reminder from the Calendar of Gastric_Bypass_Family
Weekly Group Chat!!
Monday August 23, 2004
7:00 pm - 10:00 pm
This event repeats every week.
Notes:

Bethany,
Sounds like your going good, but I think you need to get more calories and
definitely more protein in. That could also be a cause of the hair loss. I've
been told repeatedly that I need to get in 1,000 to 1,200 calories a day and
50-60 grams of protein in a day to remain healthy. If I don't I will go into
starvation mode and that isn't good. To date I don't think I've gotten close
to 1,000 calories but I do try my darndest to get in my protein in one form or
another. It is hard I know and I struggle but I just keep thinking of the end
results and I manage to get through. Good luck and keep us posted.
Laurette
4/23/04 open rny
309/290/238/150
St. Vincent Charity
Cleveland, Ohio

I just went to fitday.com for the first time. I am three months out
and down 45 lbs. I have been losing hair recently which I know is
normal. I went to fitday.com and calculated my two meals for the
day. I came out with 39g protein, good right? and 321 cal. I have
been not feeling well today although this is the food that I
normally eat. The only thing that has changed is that I did not
workout today. I think that I am freaking out because I thought that
I was eating more calories a day. Fat for the day was around 10
grams which is not bad considering I had a few pork rinds as a
snack. please advise if I am doing things normally. Carrie Burns- I
know that you use fitday, is this around what you end up with for
the day?
Bethany
281/261/216/150
May 27, 2004

Amy,
Congrats! We are proud of you. What is the link to your profile on
OH?
Hugs, Linda

Congratulations Amy, Keep up the good work and work your program. You will have
many magic moments as your journey progresses. God bless you. Hugs, Margaret in
Vegas
Amy <sunflower02742003@...
and as of 8-19-04 I have lost
36 lbs, from 312 to 276, and my measurements I am exactly 34 inchs
less... You can view my profile on obesity help dot come if yu would
like..
amy

well, I am exactly 2 months out today, and as of 8-19-04 I have lost
36 lbs, from 312 to 276, and my measurements I am exactly 34 inchs
less... You can view my profile on obesity help dot come if yu would
like..
amy

Ray,
You continue to be an inspiration to the rest of us. Congratulations on such
a great weight loss and for the good work you've done this far and will
continue to do. Thanks for the encouragement.
Laurette
4/23/04 open rny
309/290/238/150
St. Vincent Charity
Cleveland, Ohio

HI ELIZABETH
I HAD THE SAME PROBLEM WITH MY INSUFRANCE COMPANY AS WELL. I THOUGHT
THAT BECAUSE I HAD BEEN DOING WEIGHT WATCHERS FOR A COUPLE OF YEARS
THAT WOULD WOULD COUNT BUT MY INSURANCE (BLUE CARE NETWORK) SAID THAT
IT HAD TO BE SOMETHING THAT WAS DOCUMENTED BY MY PCP(PRIMARY CARE
PHYSICIAN) I TOLD THEM THAT IF I WENT TO THE DOCTOR EVERYTIME I
WANTED TO TRY A NEW DIET THEN I MIGHT AS WELL MOVE IN THERE. I WAS
DENIED 3 TIMES AND THEN THEY SAID I COULD DO A LEVEL 4 APPEAL AND
THAT IS WHERE I WOULD MEET WITH DR'S ON THE INSURANCE BOARD OR
WHOEVER IT IS THAT MAKES THE DECESSIONS TO APPROVE OR NOT.I FIGURED
WHAT DID I HAVE TO LOSE I HAD ALREADY BEEN DENIED 3 TIMES. I DID MINE
OVER THE PHONE AND I EXPLAINED EVERYTING 2 THEM. THE DOCTOR THERE DID
ASK ME WHY I STOPPED DOING WEIGHT WATCHERS AND I TOLD THAT IS WAS DO
TO FINACIAL REASONS PLUS WHEN I WAS DOING IT IT WAS THROUGH MY JOB
AND WE WOULD HAVE THE WW MEETINGS ON HOUR LUNCH BREAK AND IT MADE IT
EASIER BECAUSE WE WERE ALL IN IT TOGETHER AND WHEN I WAS ASKED IF
MONEY WAS NOT AN ISSUE WOULD I RECONSIDER DOING WW AGAIN. I TOLD THEM
NO BECAUSE I COULD FALL OFF THE WAGON AND IF I HAD THE WLS THEN I
WOULD NOT HAVE A CHOICE BUT TO FOLLOW WHAT I HAVE TO DO. I WAS AMAZED
THE PHONE CONFERENCE TOOK LESS THAN 20 MINS AND I RECEIVED MY
APPROVAL LESS THAN 1 WEEK LATER. THAT WAS LAST SEPT. AND I HAD MY WLS
OCT 28 2003. SO FAR I HAVE LOST 99LBS (WISH IT WAS MORE, BUT EVERYONE
SAYS I LOOK GOOD AND I HAVE NOT BEEN IN THE 100'S FOR ABOUT 10 YEARS)
BUT ANYWAY. GOOD LUCK WITH YOUR DOCUMENTATION. AND DONT GIVE UP
NORA WILLIAMS
292/191/160
MICHIGAN

It's been a couple of weeks at least since I last posted here, so I
thought I'd just drop a note to the group.
Today is day 206 of my new life. I'm now at 292 and have went from a
size 5XL t-shirt to a 2XL without having to stretch it out first ;-)
So, I'm down a total of 126 pounds with about 57 more to go for my
goal. My initial goal was, I think, 220 but my MD has convinced me
that this would be very difficult to maintain since I'm 6'5" so I'm
shooting to maintain 230 to 240 after building up some muscle. The
gym has really helped to get me off my recent plateau of about 3
weeks. I am looking forward to a TT sometime next year, but my goal
and muscle tone come first then we'll deal with the vainity then. I
have a possible ventral hernia about the size of a baseball directly
below my incision that may help when it comes to insurance coverage
of the TT but we'll see. I several have had that little blessing and
I'm hopeful that my will be covered as well.
Concerning some of the newbie posts have been fun to read as they
reflect a lot of what I was feeling during the same time frame, from
pre-op to immediate post-op your mind sort of weirds out and you have
to pull yourself together and focus on your long term goal. Mine is
living a more joy filled life and helping those who maybe seeking
freedom from obesity through WLS. While I still have 50+ pounds to go
to reach my goal, I try very hard to keep my mind and body in synch
by living the plan and exercising. Am I the perfect poster child for
WLS, no, but it has worked for me and I am really enjoying life right
now. Gotta run,
-Ray

Well I am off to have the dreaded stress test today.That makes me one step
closer to the rny. This has been so long in coming I had thought I was close
before only to have something go wrong. This time all that can go wrong is to
fail this test But, I have left it in gods hands and I am at peace with it so I
know he is guiding me in the right way so . I will write later and let everyine
know whats going on. I got a question. I have a friend that just had the lap rny
and she came home eating pudding and the next week she was eating food???? I
hear yall talk about liquids she did not do that. Now she is eating baked
potatoes with butter and sour cream and fried fish I know this is not the way
you eat??? jaydee

The reason for drinking soy milk is that many people have trouble
with the lactose in regular (including skim) milk following the
surgery.
Kathy
fiance Rich open RNY 8/5/04 - down 43 lbs (17 days)

Hey Nancy,
Help is right here. Go to the "Files" in the column to the left of
this message. Look down the list for "Pouch Rules for Dummies". It
will help you deal with your plateau and also help you understand how
to use your "tool" for a long time to come.
Also, take the cottage cheese test to find our exactly how big your
pouch is now. Here it is:
Purchase a container of small curd low-fat cottage cheese. Begin the
test with a full container, and perform the test in the morning before
eating anything else (this will be your breakfast on that day). Eat
fairly quickly until you feel full (less than five minutes). Note that
the small soft curds do not require much chewing. The idea with the
rapid eating is to fill the pouch before there is much time for food
to flow out of it.
After eating your "fill" of cottage cheese, you will be left with a
partially eaten container that has empty space where cottage cheese
used to be. Start with a measured amount of water (16 ounces, for
example), and pour water into the container of cottage cheese until
the water is level with the original top level of the cottage cheese.
Voila - the amount of water poured into the container is the
functional size of the pouch.
Good luck, keep us posted.
Cathy
Open RNY 7/26/04
-25% of excess body weight

hello everyone have a quick question,
i heard some of you say that you are drinking light soy milk is that
just you or did the doc. put you on it. mine says i am suppose to
drink skim milk. just wondering.

Reminder Reminder from the Calendar of Gastric_Bypass_Family
South Miami Hosp Support Group
Thursday August 26, 2004
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
This event repeats on the last Thursday of every month.
Event Location: Educ Cntr
Notes:
go to miamihope.com

Thank you Margaret.
Alice hardestyal hardesty@...

I had my surgery may 19 and have since lost 65-70lbs. But as soon as
i hit 200lbs my weight has stopped going down. I am worried that i
am doing something wrong. I dont want to fail at this but i am so
worried im gonna fail and never lose the weight. I also think i am
eating more than i should be able to. What is the amount we should
be able to each? I read anywhere from 1/4-1 cup..which is a big
differnce. I find that the honeymoon period is over and i want to
snack all the time. i physically have to pull myself away from the
food cupboards to keep me from eating. That is why i am worried that
im not doing this right. also, do you guys have any ideas for
exercise other than the gym...im starting to get bored with going to
the gym....maybe stuff more outdoors....Please help

Hi Alice, You are in my prayers as your WLS approaches and you will do just
fine. Keep you eyes on the Lord and he will guide you and keep you safe. Hugs,
Margaret in Vegas
Alice Hardesty <hardesty@...
Alice hardestyal hardesty@...

RSL...Thank you!!!
Alice hardestyal hardesty@...

You are stressing too much about this sweety! Just be patient with
your healing and don't worry so much about the protein thing. You
will find something that suits you soon enough.
There are tons of protein products out there on the market for us at
this time! Just try one at a time and eventually you will find
something that works for you.
You are still at the point where food may taste bad and depression
is common in the early stages of healing from surgery.
To be honest with you I had a major problem finding any protein
shake that I liked for the first 6 months. I was BAD about drinking
shakes but I am fine now and I found some I like at last but still
am not as good as I should be about drinking them
I do however, try to always eat protein first in my meals. There is
no way we can absorb all the protein we need from just food in the
beginning but just keep eating things with protein as much as
possible and know that you are doing just fine.
If you are losing weight, exercising, drinking your water and being
careful about the medications you put in your pouch you are doing
all the right things! Be happy with your success thus far and just
don't give up on the protein thing.
There are SO many ways to mix a protein drink besides using milk
(which is not that good for us to mix it with). Try using different
types of flavored waters or later on some juice that doesn't have
too much sugar or even frozen fruit with your drinks.
My husband made a watermelon cooler out of one of my protein drinks
by putting frozen watermelon chunks in the blender. He makes his (he
is a runner)protein drinks with peanut butter in them. *gag* But he
LOVES them.
If you call vitalady I am sure she would be happy to help you figure
out what to do. Just tell her you are very concerned about getting
your protein in but so far have not found one you like and need
ideas how to mix the drinks so they are more appealing.
Ok. I will shut up now. I think you are doing just fine though and
you need to not worry quite so much.
*hug*
Colleen
Lap-RNY 11/03/03
315/193/???

I am so sorry you are having a difficult time with protein. I too went
through many versions of protein shakes before I could drink one without
gagging.
I have now settled on vanilla carb solutions canned protein drink that I get
at Wal-Mart. It actually tastes like a vanilla shake and has 20 grams of
protein in it. I had tried many powder mixers and some other pre-mixed drinks,
but
nothing tasted that great to me.
This surgery is a huge adjustment for all of us and takes time to get used
to. I think you will find that as each day passes and you learn more and more
about your new body, that you will begin to relax a little more and enjoy the
ride. I can only say that from my own person experience. You may eventually
get to the point where you don't have to drink protein shakes if you can get
enough protein through food. For me hard boiled eggs really helps. Also,
Yoplait makes a new yogurt that has 9 grams of protein and only 5 sugars, which
is
1 more gram of protein than eggs.
I wish you luck and want you to know that we are all here for you every step
of the way.
Jeanne
8/11/03
356/223/150

Oh, Ok . Good Luck. I had my surgery done in March to date I have lost 80
pounds and doing well. However I did just suffer from an internal hernia last
month and had to have emergency lap-surgery to remove it. But gastric by-pass
surgery was the best thing I could of done for my self. It is very tuff changing
your food habits but you get used to it. If you have any questions let me know.
Christina

Today I got up and was feeling depressed thinking what have I done.
I feel good about myself cause I can see the weigh going, but still
the protein stuff scares me, because nothing I buy I like and I try
to take it because I know I need the protein but if I drink or eat
something I don't like I get very sick behind it makes me feel like
s--t and I don't like feeling bad. So now I very angery with myself
cause I never thought about protein and now it is a very valuable
source of my diet and I can't see to find anything I like. I am
still not wanting food so if I eat food and don't want it then I
feel I doing what I use to do. I wish they had a pill I could just
take and get over worrying about how I can get in protein. Well I
have had the surgery so now I have to deal with my own weakness by
myself with taking in the protein shakes Oh yeah got the order from
vitalady and didn't like not one of them either so now I know I have
a problem. Maybe soon I get my appitite back and began to eat for my
protein. Anyway hope all of you all are doing better than me with
the protien shakes and stuff.
I going to try and go to church for the first time since my surgery.
Hope everyone have a nice Sunday.

Alice,
We're all here for you, and you've got a lot of prayers going up
for ya. You maybe nervous - I know I am - but this is just
another step to living a long and healthy life. It takes a lot
of courage to do this, and you've definitely got it. Hope
everything turns out good. Best Wishes
RSL

Cynthia,
I am so sorry you were denied. I'm so glad you got an attorney.
This is your life! They have no right! They haven't been through
all the things we have, the emotions, feelings. I hope you give
them a fight that goes down in history! Hope all goes well.
RSL

Bethany,
I am so sorry your grandfather died. I am Pre-op. Your
success if very encouraging to me. I am so glad things
are going well for you. This month it will be three years
since my grandmother passed away. I hope things
continue to get better for you.
RSL

So sorry to hear about your Grandfather. He is definitely in good hands now
though. Congrats on your weight loss and inches. That is fabulous. Keep up
the good work.
Julia in Delaware
Lap RNY 3/10/04
261/171/120

Did anyone here go to the Wish Center in Phoenizto have their
surgery? Just checking. That is where I went and I kind of
feel "abandoned" by them since my one week post op. Can't get my
calls returned wiht dietician or excercise physiologist about
certain excercises I want to do (Pilates, etc). Let me know.
Thanks in advance!
Cortney

I would say that you're doing everything correctly and doing well.
You'll have your share of concerns and questions that come up, but
since all is going well, enjoy it.
Remember liquids are more easily digestable than solids, so they
should go down easily. Just don't push it and keep doing what your
doctor tells you.

Okay I know there are a bunch of us that have had this surgery done.
I am going on three weeks post-op and was wondering if any of you
were able to eat more than the 2-3oz at a time? I have been able to
take more in then I thought I would be able to take in and I am not
even eating till full just to satisfied. I had open rny. and I am on
full liquid diet for another week and half. I hear all you guy's
talking about how hard it is to make your selves eat or drink and I
have not had any problems not even with skim milk products. Any
suggestions.

Yes! You have the right attitude to get you just where you want to
be! Don't ever give up!
Colleen
Lap-RNY 11/03/03
315/193/???

Linda
I have had surgery in the past but i'm still very scared n nervous. when
i had my daughter it was surgery cause i had to have an emergency c
section. for this surgery they will be cutting me the same way they did to
get my daughter out only this time they will be re arenging my insides.
Love Debbie

Hey Dora,
I can understand the case of nerves...they are eating me up! My
surgery is alittle over two weeks away and I have been having crying
spells too. I know its all boils down to the fact its almost here
and I've waited so long for it to come. My husband can't be with me
during surgery due to his stupid work ethics and my Mom can't be
here either from Tx. so I am going to have my husbands ex MIL who
will stay with me before, during and afterwards. I am grateful for
her! Well I had to pipe up and tell you...your not alone in all of
this and I'll be saying a prayer for both of us to get past this
waiting period.
Big hugs, Linda in AL.

I was so lucky then, all I had to do was tell my PCP that they needed 10
years worth of weight history and lucky for me I've had the same PCP for years.
I
remember when I filled out paperwork with my surgeon that I had to tell them
what attempts I had made and approximate times and weights, but luckily I
didn't have to show records. They took my word for it.
Laurette
4/23/04 open rny
309/290/239/150
St. Vincent Charity
Cleveland, Ohio

Elizabeth,
I did not have anything either. I went to WW a dozen or more times, but they do
not keep your records unless you are a lifetime member. I had been to
Nutri-Systems so long ago I couldn't find anything from that. I just sat down
and tried to list every diet I have been on and recreate my diet history. I
also had my doctor list my weights at different times and the fact that he
documented that I had been to WW.
Hopefully you can do like I did and recreate them. It is just another hurdle
that they put up there to try and dissuade you from trying. Did your doctor
ever suggest that you go on a diet and document that you did in your records?
You just have to learn to be inventive. Good luck.
Dora in Tennessee
Lap/Open RNY 9/20/2004
Vanderbilt Hospital

Did anyone have this problem? Most of my ettempts have been Weight watchers,
diet books on my own, calorie reduction on my own...
What am I going to do? My insurance company wants 3 years of documented weight
loss ettempts and I know I don't have them. My ettempts have mostly been on my
own.
Did anyone come across this road block before?

My surgery is 1 month out from today. I am looking over the list of what to
take to the hospital and making my list of what I want to have in the house when
I come home. The closer it gets the more real it starts to get. Just feel like
I need to jump out of my skin right now. Just feeling strange.
Dora in Tennessee
Lap/Open RNY 9/20/2004
Vanderbilt Hospital

Dear Dora
I know that you are nervous as the time arrives. But trust me it is all worth
it. You will be a new person. I weighed 308 pounds when I had mine done. And
before I got pregant I weighed 164. You will feel alot better about yourself.
And You will feel like a new person.

Unfortunately you very likely won't have an appetite for a while.
Make it part of your daily schedule to eat. My doctor has be eating 6
1 ounce meals a day and I am 3 weeks out with out hunger. I mix up
protein drink with extra unflavored protein so each cups comes out to
5 grams each. Which gives me 30 grams of protein a day.
I kinda like the no hungries, kinda hope they stay a while, that we I
will learn to eat to live faster.
Maryanne

Hi To All,
Omar and I hope all of you are OK following Charleys appearance. Like most of
you I'm sure, we lost power for a few days and have been busy is our
neighborhood cleaning up. Luckily, our home suffered no damage. Since I know
there is
a lot going on with most of you we decided to reschedule our get together
until next Sunday afternoon. As far as location and whatnot, nothing has been
decided.
When you have time, email us to let us know you are OK and if you will be
joining us next week. I keep forgetting to post that we are in Orlando for those

Hi,
You can get protein from carnation instant breakfast (sugar free) carb advant
Edge (sugar free) this is almost the same as the carnation instant breakfast
except it is 100 cals instead of 150. cals.
Also, I have been getting egg drop soup at the chinese restaurant - that will
give you protein. I am now able to eat regular foods - if you like mushrooms-
try the portabello mushrooms - I make them in a little olive oil - with some
garlic _ Warning- not everyone can tolerate garlic - (i'm lucky).
Good luck,
Ella
decemberfemale66@... wrote:
Hello everyone, I just would like to know how can I get my protein
in as I need because I am never hungry all I want to do is drink,
drink, drink, and the only protein I find here is in milk form and
my doctor say milk will keep me gased up don't want that. I have
ordered some samples from vitalady someone had advie me to try and
they have not arrived yet. So how and the world can I get protein
wish they made a pill for protein. I am doing ok just scared cause I
don't know how I can get in protein when two spoon of broth make u
feel like u are full as a tick. However, I don't want full I just
want to drink as I said earlier. Like I have the Option Card and the
drink taste ok but like I said it is milk and it say it has 25g of
protein don't I need to drink a hole can in order to get the 25g.
This protein thing is making me had second thoughs as to wondering
why did I have the surgery when I can't find what I need to eat and
two weeks and a day out and still don't have a appitie for eating
therefore I getting no protein. my other vitiams is coming from a
flinstone vitamn he have me on one a day. I know I need to start
eating soon but right now I have no appitite for food.

Hello everyone, I just would like to know how can I get my protein
in as I need because I am never hungry all I want to do is drink,
drink, drink, and the only protein I find here is in milk form and
my doctor say milk will keep me gased up don't want that. I have
ordered some samples from vitalady someone had advie me to try and
they have not arrived yet. So how and the world can I get protein
wish they made a pill for protein. I am doing ok just scared cause I
don't know how I can get in protein when two spoon of broth make u
feel like u are full as a tick. However, I don't want full I just
want to drink as I said earlier. Like I have the Option Card and the
drink taste ok but like I said it is milk and it say it has 25g of
protein don't I need to drink a hole can in order to get the 25g.
This protein thing is making me had second thoughs as to wondering
why did I have the surgery when I can't find what I need to eat and
two weeks and a day out and still don't have a appitie for eating
therefore I getting no protein. my other vitiams is coming from a
flinstone vitamn he have me on one a day. I know I need to start
eating soon but right now I have no appitite for food.

Alice,
Wishing you a safe and uneventful journey. You will be in my thoughts and
prayers. Looking forward to hearing from you when you get back and on the
losing side. Take care and God bless!
Laurette
309/290/239/150

Well it is coming to the time when I very soon will go no mail and begin my trip
from Alaska to San Diego for surgery. I will leave here on Monday the 23rd and
fly into San Diego. Then the 24th is pre ops and the 25th is bowel prep with
surgery the 26th. I will be going no mail on the 22nd as I will not have access
to a computer after I leave here. Any prayers that you could muster up would be
great. I am a little nervous and scared but have researched this for so long
that I think I know all I`m getting into. I`ll miss you all and will post as
soon as I can after surgery.
Alice hardestyal hardesty@...

Cynthia,
I am so sorry to hear that you have been denied again. But this is your life
and you have every right to fight for it. Good for you for contacting an
attorney. Good luck to you and give them a fight they won't forget.
Dora in Tennessee
Lap/Open RNY 9/20/2004
Vanderbilt Hospital

yet again,
The "hearing" lasted a whopping 15 minutes! Can you believe that? Peoples lives
are only worth 15 minutes?! Holy cow! Then 4 1/2 hours after we left, the
insurance office called with yet another denial. She said that there was no way
they could approve me, as there were others appealing as well, and if they
covered 1 person they'd have to pay for them all, and so, no they couldn't
approve my case in any circumstances. I again thanked them for their kindness
and time, then hung up and went right to www.obesitylaw.com and immediaty
contacted Walter Lindstrom, I should hear something from them in a few days.
They paid for another persons surgery, that lives less than 15 miles from me in
2002 and it was on the exculsions list then........ I surely hope they honestly
don't think I'm giving up. They'll be sooooooo disappointed! LOL
Hugs,
Cynthia
" It does not matter how slowly you go so long as you do not stop."
~ Confucius ~
Visit my online home..
~ Cynthia's Place ~
Find me on ICQ
#16778835
*No buggies on me!
I tooked a baff in Norton's 2002 bubbles!*

Tammy
I'm excited about getting the surgery and the new life it will help me
get but I'm very nervous about the surgery part
Love Debbie

Just wanted to let everyone know that I was back in Ohio. My
grandfather died on Thursday night after our plane landed. The
funeral was on Sunday and then I stayed with my grandma and cousin
for a few extra days. Well tonight I came home to my parents and my
mom and I decided that we had better do measurements before
September 8 came. Since July 8, I have lost a total of 20.75"!!!!! I
have also lost 45lbs. Just wanted to update you all and have read
all of the posts and I am all caught up.
Bethany
281/261/216/150
May 27, 2004

If everything is tasting bad to you or even water is tasting bitter
you might want to be checked for an ulcer. I have heard that
marginal ulcers (think that is what its called) can develop quickly
after surgery and that is one sign of them...the bad taste in mouth
and even water tasting bad.
I had a similiar problem though and it turned out to be just after
effects of anasthesia and went away after awhile.
Colleen
Lap-RNY 11/03/03
315/193/???

Some people just do not feel as hungry after surgery. For me it was
like that the first 6 weeks or so. Anasthesia does that to me. For
others it takes much longer to gain an appetite back. Not sure why.
In my opinion eating just for nutrition is how we should eat anyway.
We have learned to eat for the sensory factors of eating though
instead of for fueling our bodies. I like the idea of eating just to
fuel myself. I stay out of trouble that way. :p
Colleen
Lap RNY 11/03/03
315/193/???

Hello and congratulations. I do live in Columbus, OH.
I've been approved, my doctor just has to set my date.
Thank you for wanting to be my buddy. This is all
new to me. I'm very excited and will keep you up to
date. Hope to chat with you soon. Bye

I have a question for all of your "old timers" of the Open RNY. My
first two weeks on liquids I was starving the last couple of days.
The second I was on mush I was hungry and ate. I am not officially
on "regular" food and as of about four days ago I am NEVER hungry.
It is as if I am MAKING myself eat for the nutritional requirement.
I know I need more water, but even that seems like to much. I feel
fine, etc. and when I eat I haven't had issues, just NO appetite at
all. Suggestions?
Cortney
259/225/142

Congradulations Debbie... It wont be long now. I bet you can hardly wait.
Linda.... I still say yous... LOL I think its a Pennsylvannia Dutch thing.
Tammy In PA
287/231/135

If I have one piece of advice for your wedding, it is enjoy every minute of it.
Me and Dane just got married on Oct. 4, 2004. I would do the wedding all over
again if I could do it and not have to pay for it. We had a big party
afterwards and we had the best time. I had people for months telling me that it
was the best wedding they had been to. We made sure that ours, which worked for
our personalities, was very casual (even though I wore a wedding dress and he
wore a tux) and people ate and drank and danced and had a great time. It was
one of the best days of my life. I had decided that if anything went wrong it
was not going to bother me. If anything went wrong I don't know about it and
loved it. Enjoy yourself!!!
Dora

Dora,
I've been married once (5 years ago) before (that was my big
quick "weight loss" of the past year - 225 lbs gone just like
that). We did the more formal thing thought it was small - 50
people and we did pay for it ourselves.
Right now, since funds aren't that great...I want to do things more
casually. I have great friends that have offered to do cooking and
things but I think what we may do is rent a hall (historic property
in the county) and then order trays of food. My friends can help
warm things up and put them out for us. We'll do our own
decorating. Hire a DJ and dance! (My first wedding wasn't that
wild - since it was mostly family with a smattering of friends.)
I'm doing some checking around and think this will work great and
folks will have fun. And no, I won't worry if things go wrong - I
trust my friends to help plan and make sure all goes as well as
possible.
Wanna see my dress?
http://www.everafterformal.com/Bridal/Alfred%20Angelo/1755.htm
I bought it new with tags on eBay and got it for 50% off the list
price. I need to lose some weight to wear it but that's okay...I'll
get there.
Kathy

Thanks so much, Dora. You are truly a sweetheart!
Rich is the sweetest man I ever met and I told him before the
surgery that it was time for him to take care of himself first and
that it was okay to do that.
Plus I also look at the surgery as a thing that he is doing for *us*
and our future. As the surgeon said, this surgery is not about what
you weigh or look like in a year or two, but is it about your health
5 years or 10 years or 15 years from now.
But I also look at it as helping me. I'm overweight (255 at 5'8" -
large frame thanks to German and Scandanavian breeding) and have
diabetes and borderline high blood pressure (treated). I figured
that his changing his eating habits would also provide incentive for
me too. Since his health will improve, we'll both be able to be
alot more active and that will help us both so very much.
I can freely admit that I wish I were him and that the pounds were
melting off me too. I've struggled with weight pretty much my whole
life. My insurance doesn't cover this surgery plus my BMI is a bit
lower than the recommended for the surgery (not by much!) though
with diabetes and HBP...I might qualify (if my insurance did cover
it). However, I'll be 45 in a few months and we'd like to see if we
are meant to be parents and I couldn't do the surgery and then wait
for the doctor's go ahead to try - that kind of time I don't have.
Anyway, I'm down 11 lbs thus far and just going to keep at it. Last
year, lost almost 65 but then gained most back. Eck! I know that I
cannot compete with Rich.
BTW, Rich is now two weeks post-op and is down 36 lbs!!!!! And he
is on the brink of the 3's! He is so excited. And also cutting
back on blood pressure meds as of today...his pressure was 80/60 at
the docs office though he felt fine. Yea!
Kathy

Hey Ella! I get that every now and then. You might want to try a sugar free
mint. I'm not sure why I get it. Sometimes it happens while I'm eating and it
just shuts down my appetite.
Ella Van Tassel <ellavant1012@...
I am about 1 month out of surgery. Geginning yesterday - I have this awful
taste in my mouth and I cannot get rid of it. Has anyone else experienced this?
What is it from and how do I get rid of it.
Thanks,
Ella

Hello all,
I am about 1 month out of surgery. Geginning yesterday - I have this awful
taste in my mouth and I cannot get rid of it. Has anyone else experienced this?
What is it from and how do I get rid of it.
Thanks,
Ella

Kristy,
Yes I remember feeling much better. I felt more rested for sure. Before the
CPAP I would wake up just as tired as I was when I had gone to bed no matter
how long I slept. I wish you lots of luck with your test tonight. Take care
and let us know how it went.
Laurette
4/23/04 open rny
309/290/240/150

Kathy,
I just have to take a moment and say how wonderful you are to Rich. He is truly
lucky to have you. Not many people would get on this board and try to acquire
the knowledge and ask for the help like you are for Rich. We are all on here
because it is ourselves that will be going through this and that we are worried
about. I don't mean that as selfish, but my husband would not be on here for
me. He is very supportive and is completely on my side, but you have gone the
extra step. I hope he gives you an extra hug for being so good to him.
Dora in Tennessee
Lap/Open RNY 9/20/2004
Vanderbilt Hospital

Cortney,
Welcome to the group and congratulations on your weight loss. Keep up the
good work.
Laurette
4/23/04 open rny
309/290/240/150

Thanks Cortney, I feel blessed to be here with everyone. Decisions
are very important in life and after making some really stupid one's
I am glad to be preparing for such a life changing one. I pray I am
able to pop back after a few weeks and be able to get back to work.
Foster agency keeps calling asking when we can take more kids but I
feel at this time and what I am getting ready to do it wouldn't be a
good idea until afterwards. But I sure miss having them around...
oh well! Have a great day!
Hugs, Linda in AL.

Your very welcomed Debbie! I have family in Washington, PA and I
just reread your original post and giggled cause I saw your typo but
it might not have been, yous and it made me think of how they
say "you'ns alot. Sorry but its early in the day and I am
delirious.
Love ya too! Linda

Barbara,
Thanks for the welcome back. I just feel like a new born learning how to eat
again. I was outside ehre and it was hot and I took more than a sip and low and
behold, it all came up again. Baby steps here , baby steps.
Cherie Rivard
Bakersfeild, CA
Surgery 8-2-04
288/261
Barbara <bjstipi@...
LAP RNY 7/20/04 249/217/150
Welcome back Cherie and Dora. Your common-sense wisdom has been
missed.
Sorry you had so many problems, Cherie, but you're on the way now.
Dora, 34 days is nothing. You'll be going nite-nite before you know
it.
I'm almost 4 weeks out and have discovered since going back to work
that I should have stayed out longer (went back last week, part-time)
and that I'm very tempted by the food at work. Wonder of wonders,
popcorn goes down very well, with no bad effects. Haven't tried
anything sweet yet, though. Since popcorn is allowed, it shouldn't
get me in too much trouble.

Welcome Cortney,
This is a great group of people with lots of information to share.
I haven't had my surgery yet (9/7) and have learned so much which I
know will enable me to succeed post op. And yes this is a busy
group at time's with interesting topics.
Take care, Linda in AL.

Hello Everyone!
I just joined thr group a few days ago. I suppose that I forgot to

hello i hope you get your surgery approved are you here in columbus
ohio, I had my open rny on Aug 2, 2004 and I live in urbana ohio
about 45 minutes from columbus. I have lost a total of 24.3lbs in
two weeks. let me know if you would like a buddy thanks and good
luck with everything

Tina,
Excellent -w hat great news. Keep up the great work. Ella
tineriffic <tineriffic@...
Well, I went today at 3 p.m. and the doc told me that I was allowed
to go to the gym. Just no strength training until 10 weeks. He also
gave me the okay to use the pool. I just have to take a really good
shower when I get home since my one incision is still healing up. So
that was the verdict. I am so glad. I cannot wait. We have a Curves
here too and I was thinking of joining but the base gym is free and
I am afraid I will not be able to get off base during the snow
season to attend regularly. We also talked alot about food and he
told me that he will not schold me for eating anything unless it is
fried or sugary. He told me peanut butter is not a great idea
because 1 TPSP has 100 calories and you could eat much more for that
100 calories. He also told me that the half of hot dog I ate in
Texas was Ok but not the right choice. He said cheese with a few
crackers are great, eggs (of course) and he said the meatballs I
made last night in the crockpot was a really good thing. He also
said to stick with the crab and shrimp. I asked him about carbs and
he said we need them. He said wheat bread, rice, pasta and potatoes
are ok in moderation. So I feel a lot better now after talking with
him. I had meatballs for lunch AND dinner...haha. Hope everyone is
having a great night!!
Tina

Well, I went today at 3 p.m. and the doc told me that I was allowed
to go to the gym. Just no strength training until 10 weeks. He also
gave me the okay to use the pool. I just have to take a really good
shower when I get home since my one incision is still healing up. So
that was the verdict. I am so glad. I cannot wait. We have a Curves
here too and I was thinking of joining but the base gym is free and
I am afraid I will not be able to get off base during the snow
season to attend regularly. We also talked alot about food and he
told me that he will not schold me for eating anything unless it is
fried or sugary. He told me peanut butter is not a great idea
because 1 TPSP has 100 calories and you could eat much more for that
100 calories. He also told me that the half of hot dog I ate in
Texas was Ok but not the right choice. He said cheese with a few
crackers are great, eggs (of course) and he said the meatballs I
made last night in the crockpot was a really good thing. He also
said to stick with the crab and shrimp. I asked him about carbs and
he said we need them. He said wheat bread, rice, pasta and potatoes
are ok in moderation. So I feel a lot better now after talking with
him. I had meatballs for lunch AND dinner...haha. Hope everyone is
having a great night!!
Tina

Have you ever been tested for Fibromyalga (sp). I have a friend who has that
and it sounds like what you are describing. You might call your PCP and tell
them your symptoms and ask them. It might be nothing related to the surgery.
And my friend, after getting diagnosed and on the proper meds, has had no
problem with it. It might not be that, but it might be worth a try.
Dora in Tennessee
Lap/Open RNY 9/20/2004
Vanderbilt Hospital

Folks,
I just received this information about a WLS convention in Ft Lauderdale. It is
sponsored by a practice in that area. I called to get additional information
and was told that last year about 100 attended. It looks interesting so I
thought I would share the info.
http://www.regonline.com/Checkin.asp?EventId=14047 click on Event details for
more info. Carnie Wilson will be there as a speaker.
Regards, Cathy

Hello all my friends I had my two weeks appointment today and
everything seem to be doing fine. Still they can't figured out about
my thighs, they can't figure out what is causing them to be numb,
tinggling, and feel like pins and needles sticking in them the
burning is what keeps me up at night he change medicines so I hope I
can sleep today with taking one. No good night sleep since I been
home. Hopefully tonight I will get some. I have lost 28.2 pounds so
I was happy with myself. just can anyone tell me when the sipping
stops and the drinking start or do we ever drink again and not sip.
I wish and pray we all keep doing well and progressing.
382/353.8

Corn in is season here in central NY as well. I'm 17 weeks out and
I've had some - absolutely delish!
At four weeks though I'd be afraid - I was just on pureed foods at
four weeks out.
Patty

I had my surgery on April 21, 2004
I've had some Chinese food - but some are definite no-no's for me
now.
I can't eat rice of any kind and I noticed that the lomein was too
greasy for me to tolerate. But the veggies were great! And the
pepper steak - oh my - it was the first bit of beef that didn't
bother me. And for me hot and spicy was never a problem - thank
goodness. I love my spice.
I would just be very careful.
good luck

This brought something to mind that the nutritionist said at our support group
last night that I did not know. If you eat beef with vitamin C, such as the
pepper steak it helps you absorbed the iron. She said that if you can tolerate
citrus when you take your iron it helps to absorb better, but the peppers are
high in C and will help you absorb the iron in the beef. Just FYI

I was wondering when everyone got hteir okay to go to the gym. My
doc says nothing until I am 12 weeks out, not even the treadmill. I
thought that was a little drastic but he says he doesn't want to
have any hernia repairs to do. How long did you all have to wait to
work out? Walking is cool but I LOVE the gym and want to get back
into aerobics and the crosstrainer ASAP. I know I need to listen to
my doc but I was just curious. I am seeing him in about 2 hours so I
will beg him again. I am 6 weeks out. I want to be able to swim too
but I still have an opening on my incision from an infection and he
says as long as it is open, no can do. Thanks all for your comments.
They are very much appreciated. This is a great group and well to
all the newbies!!
Tina

Karen,
People in my support group at the hospital eat corn. Does not seem to bother
them. But then again everyone is different. Just try and see how it works.
Dora in Tennessee
Lap/Open RNY 9/20/2004
Vanderbilt Hospital

Don't think I tried it until closer to 2 mths. out, but I didn't have a
problem with it at that point Karen. I was just in Rochester, NY and
the corn was fabulous!!!! I never knew how much corn was grown up
there! I have a friend in Madison, WI and whenever I visit him it's all
about corn and cheese curds :).
Carrie
Lap RNY April 9, 2004
348/274/140 (begin/current/goal)
www.carrieburns.net

Had anyone tried fresh corn? It's in season in Wisconsin, and I'd love to have
a couple of bites. I'm 4 weeks out and not had a problem with anything yet.
Karen

Amy,
I eat chinese a lot and haven't had any problems so far. I of course stay
away from anything fried and I try to avoid the sauces as much as I can.
Chinese chicken is so moist and I love shrimp so I can find plenty to eat.
Laurette
4/23/04 open rny
309/290/240/150

I tend to stick with things, like Chicken & Broccoli, that have a
lighter sauce and sometimes have egg drop or hot and sour soup (minus
the fried noodles :) ). I have a weakness for pot stickers so I
sometimes let myself splurge on sauteed ones. Just watch anything too
sweet or fried and start slow to make sure it sits well.
Carrie
Lap RNY April 9, 2004
348/274/140 (begin/current/goal)
www.carrieburns.net

i havent had any chinese food snce my surery 6-23-04. and i am dying
to eat some.. is this a good thing or do u suggest me not to eat any?
amy

Thanks Ella! I am looking forward to joining you all on the other
side.
Take care, Linda in AL.

Thanks Dora... I'll do as you suggest, I think when the time comes to get rid of
that darn machine we should have a ceremony...lols or sing "Another one Bites
the Dust"...lols
Can't wait for that day to come!!!
Dora McCary <dora.mccary@...
Elizabeth,
I too have been on my CPAP for some time now. You do get used to it, but I
can't say that I like it. I can sleep with it now but can't wait until I can
get rid of it. However, start experimenting. I have learned how to sleep on my
stomach with the mask on. You just have to learn how to position your head so
that the air does not leak. Play with it and find your comfortable position. I
hope we both get to get rid of the machines.
Dora in Tennessee
Lap/Open RNY 9/20/2004
Vanderbilt Hospital

Elizabeth,
I too have been on my CPAP for some time now. You do get used to it, but I
can't say that I like it. I can sleep with it now but can't wait until I can
get rid of it. However, start experimenting. I have learned how to sleep on my
stomach with the mask on. You just have to learn how to position your head so
that the air does not leak. Play with it and find your comfortable position. I
hope we both get to get rid of the machines.
Dora in Tennessee
Lap/Open RNY 9/20/2004
Vanderbilt Hospital

Dora,
Is that something that you were put on BEFORE the sleep study? Or
did you have to have the sleep study done since checking into the
surgery?
Teresa
Pre-op

Well all? I've taken the first steps!! I've been to 2
informational meetings; I've seen the internist. I went back to my
PCP yesterday and got more blood work and my EKG. The PCP is also
doing the referrals for my sleep study and psycho eval. I'm
soooooooooo PUMPED!! I just hope and pray that my bubble doesn't
get busted! lol
Teresa

Teresa that's wonderful! I know exactly how you feel and don't worry at
all about that bubble bursting, I'm sure everything will be smooth,
just keep on 'em :).
Carrie
Lap RNY April 9, 2004
348/274/140 (begin/current/goal)
www.carrieburns.net

Best of luck with everything Cynthia! You're such a trooper, you'll be
great!!!
Carrie
Lap RNY April 9, 2004
348/274/140 (begin/current/goal)
www.carrieburns.net

Hello everyone,
Sorry I haven't been participating in the group, life has been a whirlwind of
activity lately.
I'm just getting caught up at work, and I wanted to let you all know that I have
all my tests finished that Dr. Poplawski told me that I had to do, and the
results back. I sent all the info, and support letters into the insurance, and
tomorrow at 11 AM, I have an appeal hearing. I have no idea what to expect, but
I think I'll be ok. My PCP and pyscologist (typo?) seem to think I've covered
all the bases, but I'm sure the insurance company will think of something else,
or deny me outright again. If so, no problem, I have a few aces in the hole, so
to speak.
They wanna play games, no problem, bring em on I say, lol. I'm not going to give
up.
Any way I'll let you know what happens tomorrow.
Hugs,
Cynthia
" It does not matter how slowly you go so long as you do not stop."
~ Confucius ~
Visit my online home..
~ Cynthia's Place ~
Find me on ICQ
#16778835
*No buggies on me!
I tooked a baff in Norton's 2002 bubbles!*

Welcome Debbie and best of luck with the upcoming appts. I can't help
you with the psych eval questions, but I believe there are a few folks
on the board who will be able to.
Carrie
Lap RNY April 9, 2004
348/274/140 (begin/current/goal)
www.carrieburns.net

My husband bought some last night and I said...Okay I can do this!
Nope took one smell and gagged and that was all doctored up too. So
I think chicken is such a nice meat and will stick to that...LOL!
Its all my Mom's fault for keeping us sheltered from fish...LOL!
Hugs, Linda

Hello Jolynn (Pre-op).
I didn't know there was a chat. What day and time is it at? I'm RSL.
I'm Pre-op too. How do I get to it? Hope to chat with you soon.
Bye
RSL

oh gross,,,lol,,,,,my neice always eats tuna with mustard,,,,,,,and I thought
her taste buds were confused ,,,,,,lol ,,,guess not,,,,,,,I myself have found
toooooooo many little pieces of bone in the tuna for me to even sit down and try
to eat it........but good luck changing the taste,,,,
Deitra

Hello everyone. I'm a newbie. Went to the "chat" on Monday night at
7:00 and nobody was there! Do you guys ever use it? I enjoy reading
your posts. I've got a lot of info. Any night owls out there?
Jolynn (Pre-op)

Christina,
I will be having mine done at Dobbs Ferry Hospital. The surgeon, Dominic
Artuso, that will be doing mine was with the Medical Center a while back.
Sue
Hey Sue, I am from NY too. I had my surgery @ Westchester Medical. How about
you?
Christina

Thanks Pat, Hadn't thought about adding mustard which I love. I am
going to try it soon...when I get my guts up to do it.
Linda

Cherie,
I just think its a lot of emotions also. I had the chance to have
this surgery in 2002 but opted to move here and married this great
guy. Now I get my chance again and I am just overwelmed plus I'd
love to have my son with me. His grad. date from Navy school is
suppose to be on Sept 4th and if his orders allow it before going to
San Diego he's coming to be with me. Plus just starting a new job
and knowing its going to put me behind is well...up in the air. I
know I can find another one someday...LOL! But seriously I told
them I was going to have surgery and they are cool with it. I will
just work from home and then when I can get back into the swing of
things I'll go back.
Sorry to hear about your setbacks after surgery. I pray you are
doing better now. My sister in law lives in Bakersfield and had
surgery 12/02 and also had a setback with needing transfusions
afterwards. She's doing great now.
It feels good to have found such a warm and loving group of friends.
Thanks for being there!
Hugs, Linda

Melannie,
Alot of doctors will give a discount for the others if
your insurance is paying for the stomach.
A collegue of mine has a small hernia that has to be
repaired. The doctor will do the tummytuck and other
plastic surgery for about $2,000 more than what the
insurance pays for the hernia and she said the
hospital would charge about $1,000 for extended use of
the operating room. Hope it helps you some.
Gloria

Hey Dora. There is a lady in our support group up here that eats her
own spicey chili everyday for lunch. She cannot eat chicken, pork or
cuts of beef but she has been eating her chili since she was 3 weeks
post-op. She has lost over 100 pounds in 7 months and she looks
great!! So I would try a little at first and go from there.
As for the staples, I had open because that is all they offer up
here and I had about 40 of them. I got an infection and they had to
remove every other staple to reopen me. Some of them were "tight"
but none of them hurt (and I am a BIG BABY!!!) I still had 3 staples
left as of last week. The doc wanted to keep them in until I see him
tomorrow (I am 6 weeks post-op today) because he did not want my
incision to bust open anymore. One of the staples came half way out
when I was in Texas last week and I just pulled the other side out.
It did not bother me one bit. I figured after all the pain I was in
in the hospital, the staples were the least of my worries (I still
held my hubby's hand though...haha).
Best of luck to you. I know you are waiting patiently..haha.
Tina

Congrats Diana on the new YOU!
DENISE
Diana <sumbunnylovesu@...
Well just an update for all; I am 8 months post op and lost a total
of 120lbs so far, still a long way to go but feeling good. I have to
say this was the best decision I have ever made and sure glad I did
it when I did; life has not been easy lately, but I am sure glad of
one thing I am happy about me for once.
I know I sometimes feel I have eaten the wrong foods or eaten to
much. I do feel lucky I can eat almost anything and not get sick or
dump; it has been a real learning experience for me and I know I have
a long long long way to go....but I look towards my future now more
than I ever did. I hope the best for all those going through simular
situations and hope they all do as well as I have. Well take care all
and God Bless all.
Diana WI
509/389/???

Well just an update for all; I am 8 months post op and los