Health Info

Sorry I haven't posted sooner. I went in the hosp. on the 20th and
got out late that Friday night. I had a few complications, but
everything is going to be ok. I lost 12 in 11 days. I had my drain
removed last Friday. I have an incision down my abdomen about 3
inches long then 3 other small sites. I am still very sore and weak.
I am having a heck of a time getting protein in. I have already asked
myself "why did I do this?", but I know why and I know this is just
the beginning of something great. I am just taking things one day at
a time. I want to thank everyone who wished me well!!!!!
~HUGS~
Angela

Patty, you will be in my thoughts. Good Luck
Pat in RI

Wow Kathy that's great for Rich and amazing. Sorry to hear about your Mom
and hope your doing better. Will keep you both in my thoughts and prayers.
Keep us posted.
Laurette
4/23/04 open rny
309/290/227/160
St. Vincent Charity
Cleveland, Ohio

Today is the 2 month anniversary of Rich's open RNY with Dr. William
Roll at Fair Oaks Hospital here in Virginia. He is doing
fantabulous. Men, of course, lose at a faster pace than women
but...drum roll please... Rich now weighs 332 which means that he is
a member of the Century Club being down a total of 105 lbs! Yes, in
2 months. Can you believe it? I've watched it with great
amazement.
Scarily for me, I did some computing and he is now only 77 lbs more
than me. He is catching up! Eek!
As for me, it's been a crazy few weeks with the illness and then
loss of my mother. I've done alot of thinking about my own health
and wellness and if my insurance will cover this surgery (waiting to
see how it goes for a coworker who has sent her papers in) I'm going
to go for it. I'm just not 100% which type I want. Research,
research, and more research, I guess.
Regards,
Kathy (Rich's fiance)

Hey Kim,
I guess because he is a civilian downtown, that is all they cover
unless there are more complications. Everything from now on has to
go through my primary care onbase. Maybe it is just TriWest version
of it..haha. I know when I was going to have it done at Wilford Hall
(I know that is onbase) but they had you come in at 3,6,12, and 18
months post-op. Oh well, doesn't mean I can't drop in and see
them. :) They have helped me change my life and I was and am ever so
grateful. Yesterday when we did go to the park, I went down the
slides with my son and even got on those little bouncers that rock
back and forth!!! Never before could I do that. I cannot wait to
lose a little more so I can up in the tubes and tunnels with him at
the community center!!! Take care..
Tina
Open RNY 7-6-04
319/248/159

Hello everyone,
well here it is finally my turn to join the losing side. I go to pre op this
morning(since my last ore op was in Aug i do not have to do it all again) So i
will let you all know how it goes. Then surgery at noon at Yale. I should be
home friday i will post again after i get home too. Take care
Patty S
Have a great day!
Patty Schroeder

Patty,
Good luck!!! Wishing you an uneventful surgery and an easy and quick
recovery. Take care and God bless you and yours
Laurette
4/23/04 open rny
309/290/227/160
St. Vincent Charity
Cleveland, Ohio

Donna,
So good to hear from you and glad to hear your doing so well. It is
wonderful being a "loser" isn't it? Never thought I'd say that either. Take
care and
keep us posted.
Laurette
4/23/04 open rny
309/290/227/160
St. Vincent Charity
Cleveland, Ohio

I just sent in my forms to see if insurance will cover the surgery.
When I finally have my surgery, my best friend has agreed to travel
the 500 miles to stay for a week, and help out. I am so lucky to
have a friend like her. She knows we can't afford for my hubby to
take time off of work, and I'll need help with the baby.
Welp, thats all for now.
ccgg

I cannot believe all the new people in here. I have been really busy
since I went back to work in July. All is going well in my world, so
glad to see so many joining the losing side. Never thought I would
call myself a loser.. :) Anyways, Tis Donna here saying hi, hello,
and best wishes to all.
Donna
Open RNY
06/01/04
Unity Hospital, Fridley, MN
315/245/160

Reminder Reminder from the Calendar of Gastric_Bypass_Family
Weekly Group Chat!!
Monday October 4, 2004
7:00 pm - 10:00 pm
This event repeats every week.
Notes:

Tina that is great news but I have a ?, I have Tricare and I am now 17 months
out and they still cover my appts....I just find that odd....But glad you are
doing great!!!!
Kim
tineriffic <tineriffic@...
Hey everyone, just wanted to let you know that i just got back from
my 3 month follow-up. All looks well so far but we have to wait for
the labs to come back. With Tricare, I have to go to the base for
lab work so I will go tomorrow..haha. Well, I am down 6 more pounds
since Thursday!!!! I weighed in at 248 today which means I am down
71 pounds in 3 months!! I am sooooo excited and hubby is TDy with
the military for a week and have to wait to tell him!!! AHHH!!! I
tell you, I am doing carnation instant breakfast with carbcountdown
milk for breakfast, nectar protein shake for lunch, eat dinner, and
another shake before bed and the weight is dropping!!! I feel so
amazing. I cried today because that is all we get through Tricare is
a 3 month check-up so I am done with my surgeon. I told him that I
will be back to give him before and after pics and that when I get
where I wanna be, I am going to take our a full page ad in the paper
for him!!! I have never felt so good in my life. I feel like a mommy
again to my 3 year old. WE are getting ready to walk over to the
park!!, before, I would've drove and it is right across the street!!
WEll, I am going to email family and let them know. Wanted to tell
my family here first!!! Good luck to you all and never give up!!!
Tina
open RNY 7-6-04
319/248/159 YEA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Bethany,
Glad to see you are back. Congrts on all the weightloss and for
being able to stick to a great eating plan while on a cruise!! I
have heard about all those buffets and foods and those people trying
to make you eat 24/7..haha. Glad to hear you had a good time. I know
what you mean about the cold weather. I am in North Dakota and we
hit a record low of 24 this morning. Whew!! But it is my first
winter here and I am loving it...so far. Keep up the great work and
thanks for sharing your awesome job!!!
Tina
open RNY 7-6-04
319/248/159

Hey everyone, just wanted to let you know that i just got back from
my 3 month follow-up. All looks well so far but we have to wait for
the labs to come back. With Tricare, I have to go to the base for
lab work so I will go tomorrow..haha. Well, I am down 6 more pounds
since Thursday!!!! I weighed in at 248 today which means I am down
71 pounds in 3 months!! I am sooooo excited and hubby is TDy with
the military for a week and have to wait to tell him!!! AHHH!!! I
tell you, I am doing carnation instant breakfast with carbcountdown
milk for breakfast, nectar protein shake for lunch, eat dinner, and
another shake before bed and the weight is dropping!!! I feel so
amazing. I cried today because that is all we get through Tricare is
a 3 month check-up so I am done with my surgeon. I told him that I
will be back to give him before and after pics and that when I get
where I wanna be, I am going to take our a full page ad in the paper
for him!!! I have never felt so good in my life. I feel like a mommy
again to my 3 year old. WE are getting ready to walk over to the
park!!, before, I would've drove and it is right across the street!!
WEll, I am going to email family and let them know. Wanted to tell
my family here first!!! Good luck to you all and never give up!!!
Tina
open RNY 7-6-04
319/248/159 YEA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Alana,
Yes mam! It all makes sense to me! I can relate to all you are saying! I am
1yr and 3 months post op and am down from 456 to 238! Have the hanging skin,
hair loss, scars, stretch marks, just mention a few! And I too had the surgery
for health reasons. But you know what, I have realized that I see myself a lot
different from what others see. And I am my worst critic! I know now that a lot
of the reason I was so big in the first place was because of the insecurities
and demons I couldn't face most of my life and I needed to learn to love me
First, and except me, before I can allow anyone else to. How can I believe any
one else can really love me if I'm so down on Vicki all the time! Learn to look
through the eyes of your family and loved ones and give yourself the real break
you deserve! Not to live up to the you, you think you are supposed to be and
look like, but the person God created you to be....And that's whats on the
inside, not the outside! There's a you in there that is
truly beautiful all the time and that's what makes people love us and us love
ourselves. Let go of the superficial and grab hold of the real Alana...God
Bless....and hang in there.....Vicki
Alana <llamathegreat@...
I really don't know if any of this will make sense, but I needed to
try ans get some advice. I had surgery June 7th and i have lost
about 63lbs. Great right? Well this is my issue, since I really
started losing I have been gradually getting more bummed out and
insecure. It's almost like I am realizing just how big I was
before. Which I might add I felt comfortable with. My WLS was
mostly for health issues. But now I am feeling the insecurity that I
should have been feeling before. I am driving my fiance crazy and
right now I am just trying to sort through my feelings. He thinks
that I look great and is so proud of me. He doesn't get it either.
Now I know that I should be just excited with the fact that I am
losing and looking good. But at the same time the hanging skin,
stretch marks, smaller boobs, scars, and hair loss are just way more
than I can deal with. Can someone please help me. I really need it
more than anyone could possibly know. Also feel free to email me
directly too.
Thanks,
Alana

A lot of us have no stamina after surgery. I will be 8 weeks out on
Wednesday and it is just in the last 2 weeks I have had any energy,
stopped taking naps and got on with exercising. You had major
surgery give it a few more weeks and you will see a change.
Pat in RI

Harleybreeze,
One thing is you may be doing too much too soon. You have to remember your
only 5 weeks out from major surgery. The anesthesia isn't even out of your
system yet, that alone will make you tired. You need to give yourself time to
heal and your body to start adjusting to the newness. I wasn't even allowed to
exercise til the 7th week, except for walking. So give yourself some time and
don't be so hard on yourself. I'm almost 6 months out and there's times
where I get tired too. Hang in there and it does get easier. Take care.
Laurette
4/23/04 open rny
309/290/228/160
St. Vincent Charity
Cleveland, Ohio

Hi..I am 5 weeks out of surgery and have lost 30 lbs. But everyday is
a fight to put one foot in front of the other. I have no energy. I
take all my vitamins and get the protein I am suppose to have (mostly
through supplements as I have no desire to eat.) Has anyone eles had
this problem? I was exersizing alot then had a bad week, and have not
been able to motivate myself to start again. I find myself taking 2
and 3 hour naps during the day, I never took naps before surgery. Any
advice would be greatly appreciated, as my doctor says I am doing good
and is not sure what the lack of energy is from. Thanks

Hey Dawn,
Glad to see you are home safe and enjoying your new journey to being
healthy and happier. Wish I had an Omar around to help me but my
poor hubby had to work long hours while I was in the hospital but
he's giving me great support and love while at home. Take care and
wish you well.
Hugs, Linda in AL.

LoL.. you mean the moths didn't eat your clothes Beth that you saved from 8th
grade.. Hahaha. I am just teasing you i am glad you had fun and glad you are
doing well and glad you are feeling good about yourself.
Denise.
jackrussellrunner <MSUBeffy19@...
I wanted to let all of you know that since August 12th when my
grandfather died my life had been hectic to no end. On a good note,
I just got back from a 5 day cruise. I was a good girl and only ate
three times a day with about 4 oz. of which was mostly protein. I
lost a few pounds on the cruise and actually am feeling sick. I was
in 90 degree weather in Belize, Cozumel, and Key West and came back
to 55 degrees in Cleveland when we landed. BRRRRR! On an even better
note, I walked all the time while on vacation and my clothes that
fit before no longer fit. I am running out of clothes that I have
saved since the 8th grade, about 10 years ago. I hope that everyone
on the losing side is doing great, that those up for surgery had no
complications, and that the hurricane residents did not lose much. I
was actually in Miami when Jeanne hit. We got lucky, very lucky.
Can't wait for you all to tell me how you are doing!!! Missed you
all so much!
Bethany
May 27, 2004
281/261/200/150

Dawn
congrats on getting your surgery I can't wait to get mine done n over
with. I'm glad you are doing ok
Love Debbie

Hi Everyone,
Well, I've finally made it back online. My surgery was on Sept. 23 and so far
I'm doing pretty well. Was in the hospital from Thursday to Monday and then
had to stay in Ft. Lauderdale for two nights because we didn't have power in
Orlando after Jeanne. (I wasn't coming home to a hot/dark house LOL)
Had a few minor problems during surgery but nothing Dr. Rosenthal couldn't
handle. After surgery, I had a small problem of passing some bloody stool for a
few days and my hemoglobin dropped 3 days in a row but everything is back on
track.
Omar has been wonderful. He stayed in the hospital the entire time and took
great care of me. I'm sure the nurses just loved him since he did a lot of
their jobs. LOL
I've been up and around. Walking outside some and doing some small chores
around the house. Sipping my water, eating my broth, Jell-O, SF popsicles and
trying to drink at least 1 protein drink a day but that's a difficult thing
right
now. Have been going to the bathroom just fine and have been passing that
dreaded gas with no problems.
I go back to see Dr. R on Tuesday and hopefully my staples will be taken out.
They are getting on my nerves. Pulling and itchy.
I went out to Sears this evening with Omar for about an hour and then we
stopped and got some wonton soup. (the dog loved the wontons)
I want to extend a big thank you to those of you who sent me well wishes and
prayers. It meant a lot to me and Omar. Don't know yet how much weight I have
lost since our scale at home only goes up to 300 and I was 399 before surgery.
I will find out on Tuesday.
Omar and I send our best wishes to all of you. Take care.
Sincerely,
Dawn in Orlando
Post-Op 9/23/04

I wanted to let all of you know that since August 12th when my
grandfather died my life had been hectic to no end. On a good note,
I just got back from a 5 day cruise. I was a good girl and only ate
three times a day with about 4 oz. of which was mostly protein. I
lost a few pounds on the cruise and actually am feeling sick. I was
in 90 degree weather in Belize, Cozumel, and Key West and came back
to 55 degrees in Cleveland when we landed. BRRRRR! On an even better
note, I walked all the time while on vacation and my clothes that
fit before no longer fit. I am running out of clothes that I have
saved since the 8th grade, about 10 years ago. I hope that everyone
on the losing side is doing great, that those up for surgery had no
complications, and that the hurricane residents did not lose much. I
was actually in Miami when Jeanne hit. We got lucky, very lucky.
Can't wait for you all to tell me how you are doing!!! Missed you
all so much!
Bethany
May 27, 2004
281/261/200/150

James,
I am glad things are going well and you had a good experience. My
first appt. was on may 27th also, but I was even luckier and had my
surgery on July 19th. I barely even had time to get nervous. lol
Hope you have a speedy and uneventful recovery. Welcome to the
losing side!!
Kim

In a message dated 10/3/2004 3:35:58 PM Eastern Daylight Time,
hairbabe8585@... writes:
I did not mean to say anyone here did this. I was talking about people in my
daily life. This had nothing to do with the list at all

WHOAHHHHHHHHHHHH beth, wait a minute allow NO one to disrespect you,
period...and if they do disregard and disgard them...
look...i am educated, married to a fabulous man and, together, we run two
successful businesses...we also have four fabulous grown children...
why would it matter what some passerby in my life said?
prior to surgery i was 313 pounds, i went where i wanted and did what i
wanted...i regularly went to public beaches and water parks and amusement parks
and went on every ride that would fit me...if it didn't, so what? i laughed
like hell and moved on to the next one...there are, after all rides you can't go
on if you are pregnant or have a heart condition...if my "condition" kept me off
certain rides, same thing...
my kids always say they never heard anyone call me fat...well i suppose along
the way, behind my back, someone might have...but i assure you, if someone said
anything to my face, it would have been their sorry day...and it wouldn't be me
who walked away embarrassed...
i had this surgery because i DO believe obesity is unhealthy and shortens your
life...but those who choose not to are entitled to equal rights and respect...
so beth, as my daddy used to say, "there is always gonna be someone better than
you, but, then again, there is always gonna be someone worse..." so shake it
off and if someone doesn't like your fat a**, just ell them to kiss it...
tee
pixiereiki@... wrote:
Debbie,
I think I have every problem you named and more. I am sick of chairs too
small and toilets for people under 200! I am also trying to get the operation
soon. I am having trouble with my primary care. I have to see her just to get a
note documenting my weight loss problems and what we have done! I cannot even
get that appt. until Oct. 18th! I am so frustrated! I need to have the
operation over my X-mas vacation because I am a teacher and no one would really
understand that I need all that time off. So, the vacation will offset it a
little.
I do not want to have to wait until June! I feel like I am living a nightmare.
I want to eat yet I want to never eat another thing again. I am so sick of
feeling like an outsider in life and feeling like someone else lives in my body.
I just cannot believe that this is me or that I allowed this to happen. I
feel like my body just gets bigger and bigger daily. I no longer eat what I did
to get here but it does not seem to matter what I eat at all. I have my days
when I am upset and depressed and stop at McD's an d others when I eat more
normally. The other day I had a cheeseburger happy meal and I mentally beat
myself
up all day. I cannot seem to like anything about myself. I have to eat to
live. I have no energy to cook and clean so I eat out. This gets expensive. My
husband does way too much for me physically. I hate that too. Sometimes he
resents that and sometimes he likes it. I worry that he will not like me thin. I
know I will not live to be 90 in this body. I am 34 and I do not have any life
threatening illnesses unless we can count asthma and a really bad thyroid
condition. However, those could all be just weight. I did not have them when I
was
smaller.
About 6 months ago I went on Atkins and started excersizing. My mom and
cousin did also. They both lost weight. I gained weight. This was when I knew
that
eating normally was not going to work. I needed to eat so little that it would
kill another person so I could survive. I know how this happened and I know
why. I just do not know how to fix it. I am hoping and praying that this works
and that I can stay under 200 for life. That will mean I might make it to 90.
I know all about the hanging skin. It is a problem I welcome in my life. I
just want to have a family and live a normal life. I want to walk a few miles in
a museum and still have energy left to walk around. I do not want to go do
something normal people do and after feel like I am going to die if I have to
take another step. I do not want to go to dinner and feel like... can u bring it
to the car.... I cannot make it to the door of the restaurant anymore!
I am also sick of hating who I am constantly. I am sick of how people look at
me and treat me. The other day another teacher gave my students candy. I took
it for them and gave it out right before dismissal. One of the parents
actually said to me "You are going to make my baby fat!" I did not respond for a
few
seconds. Then I explained that it was from another teacher. I do not like
this mother. Her 14 year old is treated like she is 1. SHe did not come to
back-to-school-night because she has 3 kids and cannot get to all 3 teachers!
tHE
CHILD DOES No homework and she is selectively mute. What gave this mother the
right to treat me that way? Somehow people see a fat person and think that it is
ok to treat them like they are less than human. It is like I am less than the
dirt on their shoe. I really hate these people. I have heard that this
feeling gets worse. What do you all do about this? To me it seems like there is
no
good way for me to live in this world. I know this is my fault and not god but
I guess I feel like... there is no place that I belong in the world.
OK... I am sorry I went on and on here,
Beth

Karen,
I would make a can of chicken noodle soup and just eat the broth and
throw out the noodles. It tasted better than chicken broth (but it
is higher in fat, I liked it better and still lost weight), also I
would recline back in the recliner when I started feeling sick and
lots of times that helped even more than lying down. When all else
failed, I just gave in and took a phenegran! Hope some of this helps
and the nausea passess quickly for you.
Kim

The other Alana..
I am really sorry that you are now facing all these insecurity
problems. Right now should be the time that you are discovering the
new you in a good way. Just keep remembering that you did this for
your health. So you can live a long, healthy life..
Alana in Pa
Open- 9/21

Great Job Kim!! I know how exciting that must be. Congrats!!! You
are doing so well. I am still wearing my bigger clothes for the same
fear, that the smaller ones won't fit. but I feel like those kids
who wear their clothes down to their undies so I am washing some
clothes right now to try on. The good news is that I have been a
22/24/26/28 for so long that I have all those clothes sizes in my
basement and they are almost brand new. The 28 and 26 are huge so I
am washing the 24 and 22's to try on later. Wish me luck!! They are
all jeans and you know how different they make jeans. I'll keep
ya'll posted..haha.
Tina
open rny 7-6-04
319-254-159

Hi everyone,
I had open rny thiis past Monday and need some advice.
I am having quite a bit of nausea.... and for me any nausea is too much
I have been home from the hospital only a few days so I know this is way early
in the game for me, but I know I am not getting enough food in. Also, I feel
that because I am not getting enough food in I feel sick. I know pre-op if I
did not eat for a long time I would get this sick to my stomach feeling...
Does anyone have any ideas on what to eat for an upset pouch but still get a
decent amount of protien in??
Let me know please,
Karen E

Laurette,
You definitely don't want to rely on the pill for birth control.
Your surgeon should have warned you about this. Because of the
bypass, the pill is not absorbed well enough to be effective. Add
to that the fact that women become more fertile as they drop excess
weight, and you could very well become pregnant before your body is
ready. Please be very careful.
Personally, I miss the pill! I have been using the ring since
surgery, and now I am having problems with it. It's been about a
year, and I guess my body just doesn't like it anymore. I took a
break for two cycles, and as soon as I started back, the problems
continued. I've been on my period for a month so far this time.
Tuesday I go to the gyno. I wanted to try the Depo shot since I am
still to heavy for patch. From what I hear though, the shot just
might make me heavier, and I definitely don't want that! Maybe I
should just use the patch plus condoms until I lose another 20
lbs....I don't know...I'm so confused now. :-{
-Gina in CA
LAP RNY 07/17/03
330/215/130?

I really don't know if any of this will make sense, but I needed to
try ans get some advice. I had surgery June 7th and i have lost
about 63lbs. Great right? Well this is my issue, since I really
started losing I have been gradually getting more bummed out and
insecure. It's almost like I am realizing just how big I was
before. Which I might add I felt comfortable with. My WLS was
mostly for health issues. But now I am feeling the insecurity that I
should have been feeling before. I am driving my fiance crazy and
right now I am just trying to sort through my feelings. He thinks
that I look great and is so proud of me. He doesn't get it either.
Now I know that I should be just excited with the fact that I am
losing and looking good. But at the same time the hanging skin,
stretch marks, smaller boobs, scars, and hair loss are just way more
than I can deal with. Can someone please help me. I really need it
more than anyone could possibly know. Also feel free to email me
directly too.
Thanks,
Alana

Fran
I know what you mean I watched that surgery several times on the dicovery
health channel it is very interesting but scarey at the same time
Love Debbie

thanx Fran I will have to try it
Love Debbie

Beth,
My name is fran and I want to thank you for your recent post and to
say "DIDDO". I felt like I have dictated my storey to you and you
wrote it. As I continued to read your post it was actually
frightening to see how much alike we feel and what inconsiderate and
uncompassionate people have crossed our paths.
I have to often remind myself that I try very hard to be a
considerate, good,loving and kind person. Remember that beauty
fades but stupid is forever. I am sorry but it is lack of
understanding and in some cases just plain stupidity that cause some
people to behave in this manner. I am always told to pray for those
that hurt me and I have learned to do so, although it is hard.
Please feel free to email me any time at: grandangels2@...
I swear that I am going to start a campaign that public places
should consider the fact that not everyone is a size 8 and that it
is humiliating to not be able to sit in a chair or booth because
chairs have arms and booths are too close to the table to fit in. I
could go on and on and I am sure you could too.
I am waiting to have my surgery also and I am out of control with my
eating at times. Some days I am so good and then I become depressed
and discouraged with the pain and the shame of being so heavy that I
run (as if I could run) for that good old comfort food. I am
desperately trying to do better every day. I pray to my higher
power for the strength and I will add you to my prayer list.
Hugs,
Fran (From New Jersey)

Hello--
I was able to view this also. It was great!!! Very informative! It is
graphic so if you'd rather NOT know what is happening to you...don't watch it.
I feel somewhat more comfortable...(don't know why!) about having the surgery
now.
Angela in
Cali
Fran <grandangels2@...
Hi everyone,
On October 1st. I had the opportunity to watch a "LIVE" operation
of "Gastric Bypass Surgery" performed by my surgeons, Drs. Abkins
and Bertha. I have not had my surgery and this helped me to
understand the procedure better and to actually see what will be
done. During the coures of this presentation questions were asked
and answered which I found to be very informative.
.This procedure can be viewed on the following website:
.http://www.or-live.com
.This takes you to OR live screen: At this time.....
.If you don't have a "PLAYER" this is the page where you can
download one "FREE REAL PLAYER" so that you can listen to drs.
.From the same screen on the right side under...NEW JERSEY WILL
PERFORM A WEIGHT LOSS PROCEDURE...Click on this.
.Now you will see on the screen it reads-"REPLAY OF MORRISTOWN
MEMORIAL HOSPITAL PERFORMED A WEIGHT LOSS PROCEDURE LIVE TO
INTERNET".
.On the RIGHT side of this screen you will see: a picture of a movie
camera which says---VIEW WEBCAST---CLICK ON THIS AND WAIT FOR
WELCOME FROM MORRISTOWN MEMORIAL HOSPITAL WITH A PICTURE OF THE
HOSPITAL. After this welcome, the procedure will begin
WARNING!!!!
As a nurse and a counselor I found this very interesting and
informative, however, I want to say this as a warning....It is
extremely graphic as it is the actual operation un-edited so it is
an individual choice to view it or not. Also I don't know if every
Dr. does this procedure the same, this is how my surgeons do it.
Hugs,
Fran (from Jersey)

Debbie,
Carb Options is sweetened with Splenda, sorry it took me so long to
answer it has been crazy here this weekend.
HUGS,
FRAN

Hi everyone,
On October 1st. I had the opportunity to watch a "LIVE" operation
of "Gastric Bypass Surgery" performed by my surgeons, Drs. Abkins
and Bertha. I have not had my surgery and this helped me to
understand the procedure better and to actually see what will be
done. During the coures of this presentation questions were asked
and answered which I found to be very informative.
.This procedure can be viewed on the following website:
.http://www.or-live.com
.This takes you to OR live screen: At this time.....
.If you don't have a "PLAYER" this is the page where you can
download one "FREE REAL PLAYER" so that you can listen to drs.
.From the same screen on the right side under...NEW JERSEY WILL
PERFORM A WEIGHT LOSS PROCEDURE...Click on this.
.Now you will see on the screen it reads-"REPLAY OF MORRISTOWN
MEMORIAL HOSPITAL PERFORMED A WEIGHT LOSS PROCEDURE LIVE TO
INTERNET".
.On the RIGHT side of this screen you will see: a picture of a movie
camera which says---VIEW WEBCAST---CLICK ON THIS AND WAIT FOR
WELCOME FROM MORRISTOWN MEMORIAL HOSPITAL WITH A PICTURE OF THE
HOSPITAL. After this welcome, the procedure will begin
WARNING!!!!
As a nurse and a counselor I found this very interesting and
informative, however, I want to say this as a warning....It is
extremely graphic as it is the actual operation un-edited so it is
an individual choice to view it or not. Also I don't know if every
Dr. does this procedure the same, this is how my surgeons do it.
Hugs,
Fran (from Jersey)

wow Lisa thats alot of weight that you lost. I know you are worried but
mabey these Dr's ect... are exacgerating a little 109 lbs is very very low
but I don't know if it's such a terrible thing. Do you feel bad? If you feel
bad mabey there is a reson for concern as I don't know the whole situation
of what you have been going through.. I hope things get better for you soon
I am praying for you
Love Debbie

How about mexican food and have refried beans? My husband and I still
haven't gone out. He had his surgery 7/12 and I had mine 8/3 and we
lived in restaurants before this as we both worked a lot and had busy
schedules. We have scaled back a lot and I think I will keep it this
way, the world hasn't ended so I guess we are not that important to
making the world run ;-)
Anyway, we plan to eat out the first time on the evening of my 3 month
checkup and I will probably have fish, grilled salmon to be exact at
our favorite restaurant. I have also made a decision - no matter how
much I leave behind I am not taking it home I don't need it I don't
want it. And I am not going to make food so important that I have to
clean the plate one way or another again.
Maryanne

Linda,
I learned that same thing the hard way when I was on a low carb diet. The sugar
alcohol that they make those things with are not friendly to the digestive track
to say the least. I have never eaten one since then either. We live and learn
I guess.
Dora
Lap RNY 9-20-04
Vanderbilt Hospital
Nashville, TN
446-?-165
-Nobody can make you feel inferior without your permission.-
Eleanor Roosevelt

Hi Dora,
I didn't go out to eat during that time. I think I was about 6 to 8 weeks
out before tackling a restaurant atmosphere. By then I was on soft foods and
usually had a fish of some sort. Hope that helps a little.
Laurette
4/23/04 open rny
309/290/228/160
St. Vincent Charity
Cleveland, Ohio

How did you guys handle going out to eat during your pureed stage? Could you
find things that the restaurant would puree or did you stick to soups? I am
finding myself a little afraid to go out.
Dora
Lap RNY 9-20-04
Vanderbilt Hospital
Nashville, TN
446-?-165
-Nobody can make you feel inferior without your permission.-
Eleanor Roosevelt

I am back on my ortho-tricylin, so far so good and i'm almost 6 months out.
Both my surgeon and GYN said it was fine and should be just as effective as
before surgery. I sure am hoping so. I'm getting too old to have little ones
running around.....lol.
Laurette
4/23/04 open rny
309/290/228/160
St. Vincent Charity
Cleveland, Ohio

What forms of birthcontrol have you ladies found to be most effective post-op
?
Thanks
Shala

Kim,
Congratulations!!!!! Sounds like your doing great. I'm jealous, can't wait
til I can do that too. A size 3 again, wow I don't think I ever wore a
3....lol. You keep up the good work and you'll be there in no time. Take care
and
keep us posted on your milestones.
Laurette
4/23/04 open rny
309/290/228/160
St. Vincent Charity
Cleveland, Ohio

Hi, I haven't posted in a while. I had my surgery on July 19th and
was wearing a size 24. Today I bought pants in a size 16 and shirts
x-large and even large!!! I was soooo shocked that they fit. I
didn't even want to try them on, but a friend pushed me into the
dressing room with them and I came out with them on and not even a
bit tight! Needless to say, I don't regret this surgery at all and
dream of the day I can wear a size 3 again!! Best of luck to all.
Kim

Hi Debbie: I am sheryl Miller in NM. I am 2 years out now and I can tell you it
will be ok. I started out at 516 lbs, wheelchair bound and oxygen deficient. I
was home bound and could not ever stand up without feeling like I was going to
fall to the floor. Here is how I handled my wait for my surgery. First I read
all the materials I needed that my Surgeon gave me about the surgery. Then I
decided that if I was going to be successful I was going to have to follow his
suggestions and so I began preparing my body for surgery.I first bought slim
fast shakes and meal bars and ate them between meals for snacks. Then I bought
saucers and baby spoons and forks and sipper cups and began pairing down my
eating slowly but surely. It worked. I lost about 70 lbs before my surgery and I
felt better about myself. I am not saying that you will do as well but it worked

Thanx
I saved this info that way after I get surgery I can look over it more
Love Debbie

Hi Everyone
I'm writting cause I'm very depressed I'm getting surgery in
a few months but I don't want to wait I want to get it done
now I know a few months doesn't seem like a long time to wait but
it is for me I been trying to lose weight but I haven't
really been successful I mean I only lost 10lbs since the
process started wich was in June they are telling me I will
be getting my surgery in febuary but that is a long time
away. I can't stand my weight anymore I'm soooo uncomfortable
it's crazy... I can't walk far or stand a long period of time
and when I do I pay for it double. I'm always swollen and it
hurts really bad especially me legs,ankles and feet. My stomach
like touches the top of my legs kinda and it puts aot of
preasure on my legs and causes them to hurt really bad. I can't
stand this much longer... I have tried losing weight I force
myself to walk ect... even though it hurt terribly I don't really
know what else to do they say they MIGHT be able to push my
surgery up but they aren't sure about that yet. The earliest
it would be is January. so thats still 3 or 4 months away.
Love Debbie
ps did anyone else deal with these types of problems?

Bridget
what types of foods can you eat when you go out ect?
Love Debbie

You can see the carb options ingredients here
http://www.dietfacts.com/list.asp?brand=Carb+Options
They also have decaffienated teas.

I have a ? about this iced tea I know it probley doesn't have sugar but
does it have any kind of sweetner? I know you can have splenda sweetner
after surgery
Love Debbie

Hey girl!! You look AMAZING!!! I had to show them to Neil. He was
like wow, that is the girl we saw at the commissary!! haha!! Can't
wait til the support group on Tuesday nite!! Have a great weekend.
Hubby leaves at 4 a.m. tomorrow for Florida for a week. Oh well!!
Hopefully I will lose more pounds while he is gone (I can finally
get some things done around this house!!) Be good girl and keep up
the great work!!
Tina
open rny 7-6-04
319/254/159

WOW!!! You look great!!!!
Alice hardestyal hardesty@...

Hey Fran,
I have a cousin living up that way and she also said the same about
the tornado in Cherry Hill, NJ. I believe she lives near there.
I'll have to ask Mom. She's been a editor at several big publishing
companies up that way...lucky her!! We are doing remarkably well
down here and getting ready for the NASCAR/BUSCH races this
weekend. Don and I work at them (to help the Cancer society) to get
free seats to watch. We usually help out in the hospitality tents
and get to see the great drivers. Got to see my little guy Jeff
Gordon last April and he was so cute. Jr. is also a sweetie. Fran
I have to admit I think of you often too! All of you are always in
my prayers as my extended family!
Hugs, Linda

Oh Angela...you now know about my crystal ball....LOL!!!! We love
ya too!!
Hugs, Linda

Hey all,
I posted the other day that I put some new pics up but DUH didnt say
what name they were under. The pics are under AllnzWifey if anyone
would like to look. Kinda had a blonde moment and I can say that cuz
I am a natural.:) Talk later.
Jenn
Open RNY 5/26/04
339/235/140

Hugsss Fran thanks again for the info!
Fran <grandangels2@...
I posted earlier about a new ice tea drink called CARB OPTIONS--FROM
LIPTON TEA. **My very on the ball friend Denise from N. J. (Thank
You Denise you are such a sweetheart and oh so helpful) wrote to ask
if this drink mix was de-caf. I had not even given this any thought
I was so excited about it because I love iced tea and I am trying to
follow low carb when possible.
I just got off the phone with a rep. from the distributer--UNILEVER
BESTFOODS IN ENGLEWOOD CLIFFS, N. J. Their phone # is Toll Free: 1-
866-744-4453 for questions or comments I found out that this drink
DOES HAVE 10 MG. OF CAFFEINE PER 8 OZ. SERVING.
*I spoke to a woman who suggested that for those interested to call
to say that we need a caffeine-free tea mix because they do not have
a CARB OPTIONS DE-CAF at this time.
There is also a wesite visit them on WWW.carboptions.com
******Linda from Al. everyone up North is hanging in. We had some
flooding in some areas of Jersey and Pa, thank God we did not get
hit with anything other than a steady rain for a few hours where I
am. There was a Tornado in Cherry Hill, New Jersey (by Philly),
again thank God no reported deaths of serious injuries. How are you
doing there. I think of you often you are so helpful and so sweet.
To all who have had surgery my prayers and blessings to you all for
a successful surgery and the beginning of a new, healthier and
happier life. CAN'T WAIT UNTIL IT'S MY TURN!!!!!!
Big Hugs to all,
Fran (From Jersey)

Hi Again everyone,
I posted earlier about a new ice tea drink called CARB OPTIONS--FROM
LIPTON TEA. **My very on the ball friend Denise from N. J. (Thank
You Denise you are such a sweetheart and oh so helpful) wrote to ask
if this drink mix was de-caf. I had not even given this any thought
I was so excited about it because I love iced tea and I am trying to
follow low carb when possible.
I just got off the phone with a rep. from the distributer--UNILEVER
BESTFOODS IN ENGLEWOOD CLIFFS, N. J. Their phone # is Toll Free: 1-
866-744-4453 for questions or comments I found out that this drink
DOES HAVE 10 MG. OF CAFFEINE PER 8 OZ. SERVING.
*I spoke to a woman who suggested that for those interested to call
to say that we need a caffeine-free tea mix because they do not have
a CARB OPTIONS DE-CAF at this time.
There is also a wesite visit them on WWW.carboptions.com
******Linda from Al. everyone up North is hanging in. We had some
flooding in some areas of Jersey and Pa, thank God we did not get
hit with anything other than a steady rain for a few hours where I
am. There was a Tornado in Cherry Hill, New Jersey (by Philly),
again thank God no reported deaths of serious injuries. How are you
doing there. I think of you often you are so helpful and so sweet.
To all who have had surgery my prayers and blessings to you all for
a successful surgery and the beginning of a new, healthier and
happier life. CAN'T WAIT UNTIL IT'S MY TURN!!!!!!
Big Hugs to all,
Fran (From Jersey)

Do you drink this heated up?

Alana,
I am just now reading my 5 digest emails of 25 each and saw your
post on protein drinks. I am a big drinker of the nectar but snce it
has been cold up here, I have been drinking the carnation instant
breakfast S/f and it takes like cocoa. I mix it with 8 oz. of the
hood carb countdown milk and the mix gives me 16 grams of protein.
Not as much as the nectar but it sure tastes yummy on a nice cold
day!!
Tina
open rny 7/6/04
319/254/159

Hi Fran thanks for that info is it decaf?
Denise.
Fran <grandangels2@...
Hi again everyone,
I just noticed when I posted last--about finding a "new drink" that
I neglected to tell you all the name of it. I must have had a senior
moment. Well anyway here it is--It is called "CARB OPTIONS" and
LIPTON makes it. You mix it with water and it makes 2 quarts, ZERO
CARBS and made with SPLENDA.
Hugs,
Fran (From Jersey)

I have to say I keep reading these posts and I am just so impressed
with all of you. I have made a few new friends and ALOT of support.
THank you guys so much.. and my goodness linda are you reading my
mind with your answers? Youre not only riding that broom now youre
reading a crystal ball? LOL I love you guys.
Angela (ca)

Hmmm... Interesting. I doubt if iron loaded foods
would do the same thing. I do know people have
complained about constipation or for some it is
completely the opposite. If you ate a piece of
chocolate it would probably make you dump and have
diahreah (sp?) and then your problem would be fixed
LOL. Good luck,
Shannon

I didn't eat out for the first couple months after my surgery mostly because I
couldn't eat much but I've been eating out ever since. I just make sure that I
make good choices. I found that some of the chinese food caused me to retain
water so I try to stay away from that but I will go to most any restaurant and
be able to find something on the menu that I like that is also a good protein
choice. I usually end up bringing home a doggy bag so eating out is always a
nice change for me and it saves me cooking a meal for the next day!
Bridget
CY <collyyv@...
Why would you not be able to go out to dinner with your family? You
can still eat aftet this surgery. Just not as much as you can now
and you may find that food is no longer as important to you as it
once was. Especially in a social situation.
I do not regret one moment of this. I would do it again in a
heartbeat. It has made all the difference in my life. It has given
me back my life.
Having said this, I need to say that this surgery is not for
everyone. My advice to you is to research research research and find
out all you can before making a decision.
Stick around and watch us discuss the surgery and ask a lot of
questions.
My best to you!
Colleen
lap-rny 11/03/03
315/194/???

Hi again everyone,
I just noticed when I posted last--about finding a "new drink" that
I neglected to tell you all the name of it. I must have had a senior
moment. Well anyway here it is--It is called "CARB OPTIONS" and
LIPTON makes it. You mix it with water and it makes 2 quarts, ZERO
CARBS and made with SPLENDA.
Hugs,
Fran (From Jersey)

Hi Everyone,
Just wanted to let you know that my dear husband, Bill went shopping
for me tonight and found a NEW ICE TEA MIX, it is made
with "Splenda", the package is marked "NEW" and it is quite good. I
have not had surgery yet (still waiting for insurance approval) but
I read all the posts and it sounds as if we can use all the help we
can get when it comes to getting fluids in. This comes with Lemon
in the mix, I don't know if they make any other flavors, I will ask
Bill to look since he is my shopper et. al since my knees and back
hurt so bad right now.
Have a great day! And to all who are having or have recently had
surgery, you are in my thoughts and prayers. Without all of you I
know I could not do this.
Hugs to all,
Fran (From Jersey)
" HIGHER POWER WILL MOVE MOUNTAINS BUT WE MUST BRING THE SHOVEL"

Hi Joy,
I'm in Calif too. I have to tell you, this is the best thing I have ever
done for myself. My boyfriend and I eat out and I have no problem with it.
I can pretty easily find things that I can eat, and most restuarants are
willing to adapt for you. If they aren't we don't go back there. I even
pick apart sandwiches in the middle of meetings at work and eat the meat and
cheese out of them.
Learn as much as you can, I would be happy to help you in any way...I have
no regrets, I feel great!!
Claudia
2-10-04
404pre-op/367surg/261/160?

Hi Joy,
I understand what you wrote so I am going to be truthful! I do NOT
regret having the surgery at all. I am having my trials right now
since having surgery on 9/7 but its suppose to be a time of learning
and I still go out to eat with my family. I still cook them the
foods they love. I taste some stuff but have found my "taster" is
off so nothing I think will be good is. Its a learning curve and
you need to be able to accept this challenge and gift we are/have
been given. Its also common for some to have depression after
surgery since they miss their food so much. But with the
understanding and also the will to get healthy surpasses these
setbacks. I wish you all the best and keep us up to date on your
progress. Where in CA. are you living? We have several on this
message board from CA. and might be able to help you also. Ask away
any questions you have for we are very open to helping others.
Big hugs,
Linda in AL.

MY NAME IS JOY AND I AM FROM CALIF. I HAVE BEEN ACCEPTED FOR GASTRIC
BYPASS. I HAVE BEEN ON A 1200 CAL. DIET TO LOOSE 10%OF MY WEIGHT
BEFORE THEY WILL DO THE SURGERY. IT HAS BEEN THREE WEEKS AND I HAVE
LOST 13 POUNDS. I WILL PROBABLY NEED TO LOOSE CLOSE TO 30 BEFORE THE
SURGEON WILL DO IT. I HAVE A NUTRITION CLASS ON OCT 4TH AND I WEIGH
IN. I WILL THEN GET AN APPT. TO MEET THE SURGEON. THE REASON I AM
WRITING IS BECAUSE I HAVE MANY FEARS ABOUT NOT BEING ABLE TO GO OUT
TO DINNER WITH FAMILY. THEY HAVE SUCH A STRICT DIET TO FOLLOW FOR
LIFE. I HAVE GONE UP AND DOWN THE SCALES 100 POUNDS SEVERAL TIMES
AND HAVE BEEN ON MANY, MANY DIFFERENT DIETS. I LOOSE AND NEVER AM
ABLE TO MAINTAIN THE WEIGHT LOSS FOR LONG. I HAVE NOT BEEN ABLE TO
TALK WITH ANYONE WHO HAS HAD BYPASS. I JUST WANT TO KNOW IF MOST
PEOPLE ARE HAPPY OR IF THEY REGRET DOING IT. THANKS FOR YOUR TIME.
I WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM ANYONE.

Too
oh no,,,,this ain't good,,,I went to the kids school to give blood and they told
me that I was severe anemic ( however u spell it ) told me to get some iron
tablets...and now I see this....oh lord........now I have to choose,,,,do I want
to be low on iron or constipated......LOL
Deitra

Sounds great Vee!!! Your doing so well. Wish I could do that too
but having trouble getting my protein in since I hate the sweetness
of the shakes.
Hugs, Linda in AL.

Shannon,
I am only on two childrens vitamins so not sure what it is but if
you have had a child...ya know what happens down there in that area
well I am having problems with my hemoroid that has never given me
problems before. Dang what next...LOL!!! I'll look at my foods to
see if I am eating too much iron loaded stuff.
Hugs, Linda

Good Luck, Presh and have a peaceful night sleeping. I must say I
seemed to have died that night before in bed cause I slept hard. I
had two weeks of worry and nerves prior to that night so it was
welcoming. Will keep you in our thoughts and prayers.
Hugs, Linda in AL.

Denise,
Thanks for the kind words. It's also my parents' 38th Wedding Anniversary so
I have no doubt it will be a lucky one for sure...lol
Laurette
4/23/04 open rny
309/290/228/160
St. Vincent Charity
Cleveland, Ohio

Hi Dora,
There's Fitday.com which is a pretty good site. I used to use it til my own
hospital established there own online. Good luck!!
Laurette
4/23/04 open rny
309/290/228/160
St. Vincent Charity
Cleveland, Ohio

I just talked to my surgeon again and he definately wants me to wait
a couple months after I've reached my goal before scheduling my tummy
tuck and other plastics. He said that even after we reach our goal
our skin can still shrink a bit. I sure hope so!!

I remember a couple of you tracking your food intake on a website. I would like
to do that to keep up with protein, etc but can't remember the site. Can anyone
give them to me?
Dora
Lap RNY 9-20-04
Vanderbilt Hospital
Nashville, TN
446-?-165
-Nobody can make you feel inferior without your permission.-
Eleanor Roosevelt

Laurette oct 22 will be your lucky day it sure was mine almost 19 yrs ago when i
had my baby boy oops not a baby anymore.Hope you feel better soon!
Denise.
Babydollbbw3@... wrote:
The only thing is I haven't been taking iron and this is the first week in
little over 5 months that I've been having this problem. Trying to figure out
what I'm eating that is different. Think I just might need more fiber...lol.
I go next Thursday to by family doctor to see how the blood work came out and
to see what adjustments might need to be made, if any. I have my 6 month
appointment with my WLS surgeon on Oct. 22nd. I can't believe it's going on 6
months already. Time sure does fly by when your having fun.....lol
Laurette
4/23/04 open rny
309/290/228/160
St. Vincent Charity
Cleveland, Ohio

Shell,
I had my surgery jus 10 days ago. I too was scared as we all are and should be
before a surgery. But, I had come to the conculsion that this was what I was
going to do and if this was my day to go then there was nothing I could do about
it. Do you have faith in your surgeons? If so then rest a little more at ease,
because they know what they are doing. If you are a christian, pray!!! If not
then do whatever it is you do to feel close to your higher power. That is where
the real peace of mind comes from. Nerves are normal.
Dora
Lap RNY 9-20-04
Vanderbilt Hospital
Nashville, TN
446-?-165
-Nobody can make you feel inferior without your permission.-
Eleanor Roosevelt

Cindy,
I know that it sounds easier than it is, but ou have to keep your head up. This
is your life we are talking about. It is important enough to fight for it. I
have heard it said many times, "where there is a will there is a way". It is
true you know. And if you have to go to a couple different PCPs until you find
the one that will help you then do it. If this is important to you don't give
up the fight.
Dora
Lap RNY 9-20-04
Vanderbilt Hospital
Nashville, TN
446-?-165
-Nobody can make you feel inferior without your permission.-
Eleanor Roosevelt

Katie,
You have been through a lot, but it sounds like ou are doing well. Not sure
that I would be up and emailing if I had all that done to me. I will keep you
in my prayers for a speedy recovery. Keep up the good work. How are you
getting you 3 shakes in? I am having trouble getting more than 2 in a day
because I dread them because of the taste. If you have any secret please share.
Dora
Lap RNY 9-20-04
Vanderbilt Hospital
Nashville, TN
446-?-165
-Nobody can make you feel inferior without your permission.-
Eleanor Roosevelt

Denise,
You have the best thing possible on your side. You are a strong woman and you
don't give up. I think those two things are very important when trying to get
through the approval process. I am on Atenolol myself, but I take 100mg at
night. Hopefully soon I will be off of those meds too. Keep up the good work.
Keep looking toward the end.
Dora
Lap RNY 9-20-04
Vanderbilt Hospital
Nashville, TN
446-?-165
-Nobody can make you feel inferior without your permission.-
Eleanor Roosevelt

Catherine.. I also went today for my first post-op appt and lost the
same amount.. Congrats.. and also, had my staples out..
Alana

Jenn, way to go girl!!!!! That is fantastic and since May yet. Your doing a
wonderful job. Thanks for sharing the photos too, I'll have to wait til I
get home to look though...lol. Take care and congrats!
Laurette
4/23/04 open rny
309/290/260/160
St. Vincent Charity
Cleveland, Ohio

That's great girl! Where are the pictures LOL. Or am I a dork? LOL I
can't wait to be a loser.. 20 pounds and I can have surgery!!!! YAY!
I can't wait to see your pics maybe that will inspire my last 20
pounds :)
Angela (ca)

Hi everyone,
Hope all is well for all my fellow loser friends. Just wanted to say
that I FINALLY have posted some after surgry photos. Had nothing but
befores on here before. I asm down 105 and feel like a brand new
person. I can honestly say that if I never lost another pound I
could live the rest of my life happy. Talk later.
Jenn
Open RNY 5/26/04
339/234/140
was 26/28 now size 18

See Vee, we knew you could do it! Way to go!!!!!
--
Carrie Sagel Burns
Lap RNY April 9, 2004 (-85 lbs.)
348/263/140 (begin/current/goal)
carrie@... - www.carrieburns.net

Of course that's normal. You gain a lot of water
weight with iv's in the hospital. Be thankful that
you are one of the one's that did lose alot. Others
aren't as lucky. You go girl!

Ok ya'll I had my weigh in appointment today and it's
AMAZING but I lost more than what the doc asked me to
loose a whopping 15 pounds since last Wednesday!!!
I'm hysterical!!
Vee-

hello to all
I went to my first post-op appt. I had my staples removed. I was
down 22 lbs. Is that normal to lose so much in one week?
I dont return until 10/28. I have a new script for B-12. I am on the
pureed diet which agrees with me better than the liquid one.
Catherine

The only thing is I haven't been taking iron and this is the first week in
little over 5 months that I've been having this problem. Trying to figure out
what I'm eating that is different. Think I just might need more fiber...lol.
I go next Thursday to by family doctor to see how the blood work came out and
to see what adjustments might need to be made, if any. I have my 6 month
appointment with my WLS surgeon on Oct. 22nd. I can't believe it's going on 6
months already. Time sure does fly by when your having fun.....lol
Laurette
4/23/04 open rny
309/290/228/160
St. Vincent Charity
Cleveland, Ohio

I was getting very constipated in the beginning too.
It is from the iron. I started taking iron every
other day after that and I haven't had a problem. Too
much iron causes constipation.

Congrats Alana, that is awesome. I hope I can say the same in 2
weeks. I go tomorrow!!!!! WIsh me luck.
Luv u guys,
Presh

Alana, so good to hear your doing so well. Keep up the good work and keep us
posted.
Laurette
4/23/04 open rny
309/290/228/160
St. Vincent Charity
Cleveland, Ohio

Well.. It's been 4 days since I got out of the hospital, 9 days
since my surgery and I've already lost 22 pounds..!! I'm soo
excited.. Feeling pretty good.. I'm only on the pureed diet for one
more week, then onto soft foods.. 22 pounds, damn..! hehe sorry. I'm
just happy. No more staples too!
Alana

Manufactured for SkylarHaley. The Consumer information # is 1-866-759-5274.
The Drink name is "Achiev One." It comes in a variety of flavors. Hope this
helps.

Presh,
Wishing you an uneventful surgery and easy recovery. Will keep you in my
thoughts and prayers. Take care and see you on the "losing" side real soon.
Laurette
4/23/04 open rny
309/290/228/160
St. Vincent Charity
Cleveland, Ohio

Hi All,
Well, tomorrow is my day. Just waiting for the hospital to call with
the time. My mom is much better with the whole idea now and she even
started to call her friends to tell them. Can you believe her, here
I am worried about her approval and now that she has accepted the
idea she is telling all her friends. I think that is like her
little "support" group way, don't you think???
Anyways, I am still scared but trying to just stay positive.
Thanks for all your words of love and encouragement as well as advice
and insight these last few weeks.
AS soon as I can get back on after I get home (which will hopefully
be Monday), I will post and letyou all know how it went.
Luv all y'all,
Presh
LAP-RNY 10/1
385

Also, where any of you who have already had
Michele, I was only scared when I was in pre-op. I had to pee every
5 minutes, and they hooked me up to a bunch of i.v.s. I wanted to
bolt, I was so nervous. Horrible outcomes from the surgery went
through my mind. But then the anesthesiologist injected something in
my iv and I was off to La La Land. The first couple days in the
hospital were tough, mostly dealing with that blasted hospital bed.
I couldn't get in or out by myself and I had to almost beg the aides
to close my gown so I could walk the halls. I got scared about a
sharp pain under my left breast until the nurse assured me it was
gas pain. I thought I had torn something trying to get into bed.
Once I got home, life was much better.
Fear is normal. It is your survival instinct. Getting as much
knowledge ahead of time is the key. I went back and read as many of
the past postings here as I could to get a perspective of what
people went through. Good luck with your surgery. Janet
Janet W
283/224.5/150
June 11, 2004
FL Med Center, Ft. Lauderdale

Where do you get it?

I am scheduled to have surgery on October 21st. Does anyone have
any tips or advide that I might benefit from. If so please email me
at michelechaffer@.... I would appreciate anything you think
would be of help. At this point I am willing to take any advice
that sounds like good advice, especially from those who have already
started this journey. Also, where any of you who have already had
this surgery scared. I am terrified, which is unusual for me.
Thanks,
Michele

Hi Alana,
I am also drinking the sf carnation instant breakfast as its what my
surgeon request of us. But I am also drinking that 0gm Slim fast on
the side. Plus I drink as much skim milk as possible. I am finding
most shakes to be just toooooo sweet for me. Good luck in finding
something that will work for you.
Hugs, Linda

Hey Pat,
I am working at Liberty National Life Ins. as an agent selling
various life, cancer, final expense and some health policies. I
love working with people so its a nice enviroment. I just wish the
training was over and I could get on with making money. I want to
start banking some of it to go to Japan after Robert is stationed
there and I know he's there and not off on ship somewhere. Hope
your doing great!
Hugs, Linda

Thanks Laurette, I sure miss ya'll so much! If I didn't need to
work I'd be home chatting with ya'll as usual but...here I am really
needing to go on to bed but hubby's on the phone so I thought I'd
sit here and try to play catchup. My eating has gotten sporatic and
probably not great. My protein intake is minimal and I need to
concentrate on getting it taken care of instead of forgetting.
Constipation is the worst and I have started taking benefiber. What
a nasty word...LOL!!! Sorry guys...LOL!!! My period is so horrible
I was thinking I needed to go into the doctor for something to help
me clot...I felt like I was hemorraging. Scare me lots...LOL!!!
But thank goodness its lightening up and I might be released from
the running boards and plugs soon! Well I better skip on down to
answer something next. Look forward to being here more soon!
Hugs, Linda

If you like Coffee drinks ... look for Achieve Coffee flavor protein - tastes
close to Starbucks without the sugar. Has 20 grams of protein and only 5
grams of Carbs. Tastes good also. It runs about $3.00 a bottle but it is worth
it when you can't hold anything down. I am almost 9 months post-op and drink
at least 1, sometimes 2 per day. Feeling very good.

Hey Angela,
I think each roadblock you encounter seems to get busted down so I
feel you can do this to achieve this surgery. I know you have gone
through so much to get where you are now. Keep your chin up and
keep smiling...but keep that tongue in!!!! Miss chatting with you
during the day!
Hugs, Linda

i know...there's not one brand that could compete with ben or jerry...i used a
combination of isopure chocolate and sf chocolate carnation instant
breakfast...but remember if you try the carnation, it has less protein...it did
taste a little better to me tho...
tee
Alana <lanagurrl3@...
I'm having trouble.. Actually feeling pretty good from being home
since Monday.. but I need to find a protein drink that I can deal
with.. I've tried numerous ones from Vitalady..but can't seem to
tolerate them.. PLEASE ANYONE.. GIVE ME SOME IDEAS..
Alana

Cindy, i came to chat
Patty
Have a great day!
Patty Schroeder

I'm having trouble.. Actually feeling pretty good from being home
since Monday.. but I need to find a protein drink that I can deal
with.. I've tried numerous ones from Vitalady..but can't seem to
tolerate them.. PLEASE ANYONE.. GIVE ME SOME IDEAS..
Alana

I'm trying to keep my head up and stay optimistic. Even though I am
at the very beginning of this journey, I am finding it difficult to
be positive.
I keep thinking back on all the disappointments in my life, and I'm
so afraid this is going to be another.
I have had it with my PCP, and am having a hard time finding another
one, as I am wary now to open up and share my feelings and ideas
about GBS.
I live in Wenatchee, WA, and have very few options for doctors and I
am unable to travel to Seattle/Tacoma or Spokane for these
things...but I'm trying to stay 'UP'.
This is a great group of people, and I'm so glad I found you!!
:) Cindy

I never see anyone in chat???? Where is everyone?
:p Cindy

Katie, Hope the worst is over for you, and yes it sounds like a lot
of surgery but soon it will be a faded memorary. I've heard from
numerous people that the hernia repair is a painful operation. Just
keep doing what your doing drinking, walking and taking your shakes
and vitamins. Can you keep a glass of water beside your bed with
your pain pills and then you won't have to get up to take them?
Pat in RI

Dale got the PC moved upstairs today for me, so I'm able to chat with everyone.
And, boy, I'm ready! I'm doing much better.
It was/still is rough - but if the worst is over, then I lucked out I think!
I'm doing really well. Pain is terrible off and on, and I HAVE to keep my every
4 hour doses up, or I can't get up out of bed... I even started setting an alarm
to get me up for them. But, the surgeon said my pain is probably so much worse
than normal because they did all three - the RNY, the gallbladder, and the
hernia fix... and they used the rib spreader - and my incision is very high.
But, no complications (except for those blisters on my back where I broke out
from the binder) - so THANK GOD!!!!
I'm tired, but can't sleep very well. Can't stay comfortable in one position
for very long. And, due to the sciatic problem, can't sleep in the recliner
like I'd hoped. However, with everything else, I can't complain at all.
Drinking just fine, walking great, getting my shakes and vitamins in - all the
good stuff. No nausea, no vomiting, medicines sitting well. Had a little scare
yesterday when my PICC Line started bleeding, but we got it to stop quickly, and
they're taking it out tomorrow.
Well, other than that, I stay on the same: sleep, drink, walk regimen. I have
an appt with the nutritionalist Friday, surgeon and PT next week. I've got
angel friends and family helping me with the boys so I never am by myself with
them. Jack probably wouldn't be a problem, but you know Quinn! Please e-mail
me! Katie
Katie - mommy to Jack, age 4 1/2 and Quinn, 16 mo.
"Before you were conceived, I wanted you. Before you were born, I loved you.
Before you were a minute old, I would have died for you. This is the miracle of
life."

good luck tomorrow, will be keeping you in my thoughts and prayers that they
find out what's going on. keep us posted.
laurette
4/23/04 open rny
309/290/228/160
St.Vincent Charity
Cleveland, Ohio

Dora,
I am in the same boat. I cannot imagine being 200 or under. I hope I get the
chance to live it.
Beth

well i've been sick for a week again - throwing up and stuff. My
doctor thinks it is my gallbladder - I have a scan tomorrow to see

Well it is amazing the work you have to do to get this surgery i am
finding out why also. Not that i didn't know but it is becoming more
and more of a reality to me every step closer i get.I had my visit
with the Cardio Dr today it was not as bad as i thought it to be. I
had myself scared really for nothing considering i am pretty healhty
for my age.The Cardio Dr informed me that this surgery is pretty
serious so even though he considers me pretty healty though my blood
pressure has been a little high lately he did put me on something
called atenolol 25 mgs I am comfident i will be ok. Friday i go
back for the start of my 2 day tests.I didn't realize these pre-op
tests were so involved well it takes what it takes right? I didn't
get this weight on over night so i have to do what i have to do.
And just wanted to share i am very proud of myself when i had my
first consultation with my surgeon i was 321 and i am now 299. I am
very motivated and i will not give up i have never been a quitter
and i wont be now. Thanks for reading me ....
Denise.

There is a lot of work to be done beforehand yes.
Way to go on your weight loss! That is great and shows how very
motivated you are to lose the weight and be healthy.
My best to you!
Colleen
lap-rny 11/03/03
315/194/???