Health Info

Michele,
This sounds weird to say it about a divorce but you seem to be happy about the
change, but good for you! You deserve to be happy. I am glad that you are back
around your family and friends. That can really make a difference. I am sure
that there is a support group near you, or at least I hope there is. But if all
else fails you have support here.
As far as the jumpstart. I am not far enough out to know by experience, but it
seems that numerous times I have ready where they go back to the basics. Many
have been using what they call the protein train. They drink 3 protein drinks a
day plus water and that is all they have for 3 days. Then they start adding
foods back in. It might be worth a try. I hope some that know for a fact what
they are talking about will help too.
Good luck.
Dora
Lap RNY 9-20-04
Vanderbilt Hospital
Nashville, TN
446-426-165
-Nobody can make you feel inferior without your permission.-
Eleanor Roosevelt

Vee,
Don't know about the b-12 because my doctor did not put me on that. But the
calcium I take 2 or 3 times a day with a meal depending on how much what I am
taking has in it. I was taking the Viactiv which has 500mg 3 times a day. But
I have found a chewable that has 600mg and I am taking it 2 times a day since I
am getting calcium in a couple other places too. I think we are supposed to get
about 1600mg a day. Hope that helps.
Dora
Lap RNY 9-20-04
Vanderbilt Hospital
Nashville, TN
446-426-165
-Nobody can make you feel inferior without your permission.-
Eleanor Roosevelt

I was told to take 2 centrum type adult vitamins a day that translates
to 4 childrens vitamins, 2000mg of Calcium and 1 sublingual b12 a day.
Maryanne

I have my vitamins ready to go but don't know how much or how often
to take them. I know I should take my multivitamin twice a day (one
pill twice a day). How about the Calcium Manesium and the B-12?

Vee,
Welcome home and so glad to hear everything is going well. Sounds like your
doing great. Wishing you a speedy and easy recovery. Take care and God bless!
Hugs,
Laurette
4/23/04 open rny
309/290/226/160
St. Vincent Charity
Cleveland, Ohio

Hi!
It has been quite awhile since I posted; and many changes in the
last few months.... Well the first is I made it into the century
club in September! YEA!!!!! My husband declared he hasnt loved me
for the last 6 years, so we are in the process of getting
divorced... and life is soooooo much better!!!!!! I have moved back
to washington state to be near my friends and family and have gotten
a job working full time. I love reading up on everyone.. I can
relate to many of you...I am at a plateau and I know part of it is
my fault I havent been exercising like I should and i have not
eating alot of protein... have been under alot of stress the last
month and a half... just need a few reminders how to rejumpstart
myself......I am away from my support group being up here in Olympia
Wa and need to find one.
Congratulations to everyone just joining this wonderful journey! It
is the best thing you could ever do for yourself!!! i have never had
one regret at all..... well yes i do... I wish i had done this many
years ago!!!!
Michele
425/320/180Lap RNY 4/26/04
Dr Eubanks, Portland Oregon

Hi All,
First I want to thank all of you for your good vibes.
The surgery was a success!! I had my surgery at 7:30
Thursday morning and was discharged Saturday at 9:30
am. He took the drain out and the cathedar out and I
just have to go see him in about a week to get my
staples out. I'm a little soar but nothing terribly
bad. I've had a low grade fever which he wasn't too
concerened with and said I could take tylenol. So
today I start my vitamins. Flinstones Complete
multivitamin, b12 (sublingual), calcium magnesium,
Zantac. Oh by the way I got home from the hospital
and I also got my period! YUCK but atleast the pain
meds are helping with cramps.
Vee

Yeah, I want to sleep on my stomach but I am afraid to do so. I have progessed
to the side and am finally sleeping on just my 2 pillows instead of the pile of
them. Can't wait to sleep on my stomach though.
Dora
Lap RNY 9-20-04
Vanderbilt Hospital
Nashville, TN
446-426-165
-Nobody can make you feel inferior without your permission.-
Eleanor Roosevelt

I just tried a protein bar instead of a shake. It did not bother me at all and
it was delicious. I hope that it is ok. My doc told me to start on soft foods
and my body would tell me what I can do. It is called All in One and the flavor
is Choclate Peanut Butter Crunch. The brand is Dexatrim, but the only thing
that I can see that is in it is Green Tea which won't hurt us. The info on it
is calories 180, Carbs 23, Fiber 6, Sugars 1, and Protein 14g. I just chewed
and chewed and it just turned to almost like a liquid.
It might work for you. I can do this much better than the drinks. Yummy.
Dora
Lap RNY 9-20-04
Vanderbilt Hospital
Nashville, TN
446-426-165
-Nobody can make you feel inferior without your permission.-
Eleanor Roosevelt

Tricia,
The flourascope (if that is the right word) is where they make you drink this
aweful yellow stuff and then run a camera over you to look to see if you have
any leaks. You basically are flourescent on the film from the stuff you drink
and they can watch how quickly the stuff goes out of your pouch. It is not fun
but is doable. Don't worry, it doesn't hurt and nothing is put down your throat
other than the yellow stuff you drink.
Dora
Lap RNY 9-20-04
Vanderbilt Hospital
Nashville, TN
446-426-165
-Nobody can make you feel inferior without your permission.-
Eleanor Roosevelt

Awee Laurette you look so prettyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy.
Denise.
Babydollbbw3@... wrote:
Hi All,
Just wanted to let you know I've finally added my pics to the website. Your
all looking so great by the way!!!!! Keep up the great work.
Hugs,
Laurette
4/23/04 open rny
309/290/226/160
St. Vincent Charity
Cleveland, Ohio

Hey Patty that would be my luck have to take 2 swallows instead of 2. I think
they should wait till our 2 week ckup to do it, seems me like the first day,
keeping any thing down might pose a problem. But like u said--u do it just to
be able to go home. When I saw the PT, she had me doing different excerises and
then she wanted me to touch my toes, I laughed and said u got to kidding, but
they want to know how far u can reach.
Glad your surgery has turned out so well.
Hugs,
Tricia
Patty Schroeder <thumper2252@...
Tricia,
Yes i had to do the swallow study. yes it was very nasty , but at that point i
di dwhat i could to get ready to go home, they made me take 4 swallows because
they had to reset the machine, i am suprised i tolerated it, but at like i said
i did whAT I COULD TO GET READY TO COME HOME (sorry about caps)
Take care
Patty S
Have a great day!
Patty Schroeder

Hi All,
Just wanted to let you know I've finally added my pics to the website. Your
all looking so great by the way!!!!! Keep up the great work.
Hugs,
Laurette
4/23/04 open rny
309/290/226/160
St. Vincent Charity
Cleveland, Ohio

Hey Dora,
Let me say that I enjoy your posts how u explain things to us. Flourscope,
what do they do, put a light down u or is it like and xray? I guess I worry too
much too, the diet doesn't bother me because I am keeping my self focused but
it's the other stuff that they throw at u. I have had the light down the throat
but I was out of it at the time, for they did a colonoscopy too. I am what is
known as a habitual gagger, just ask my dentist lol. I just like to know what
I'm getting into. All of u have helped so much with your questions and answers,
when my surgeon ask me did I have any questions, I told him about our group and
that I also researched it first and right then I had no questions. I do want to
ck with him about the meds I am on, shoot it would be like eating a meal with
all they have me on right now. I'm ready to come off anything I can to make
this work.
Hugs,
Tricia in AL
Dora McCary <dobie161@...
Tricia,
They did a flourascope(sp) on me the day after surgery. And yes, the stuff that
you have to drink is disgusting. But luckily it is only 2 mouthfuls. The bad
thing was that they teased me with some water first. I had not had water since
Sunday night and this was Tuesday morning. They let me sip some water first,
just a sip mind you and then I had to drink the nasty stuff with no water to
follow it. It tastes horrible, but it is a small quantity which makes it
better. It'll be ok. Did not get any real water for the sip test until
Wednesday. Man was I dry.
Dora
Lap RNY 9-20-04
Vanderbilt Hospital
Nashville, TN
446-426-165
-Nobody can make you feel inferior without your permission.-
Eleanor Roosevelt

Dora,
Thank you so much i was wondering if anyone else had had this problem too adn
you confirmed for me that i am ok and i do agree i will stick wiht this and want
to be thin and healthy more than i want sugar.. THANKS for the reassurance and
the power to win!
Hugs,
Melisa
"Life may not be the party we hoped for, but while we are here we might as well
dance!"
Misa

Hi everybody,
just wanted to see if anybody is from Toronto Canada.
My hubby is schedule for surgery next Wendsday at the Henry Ford
Center in Detroit.
all the best to you all. Larisa

I'm right with ya there, I'm a worry wart too...lol. I'm afraid to put so
much in my mouth for fear that I might not dump and start eating it again. I've
never been strong enough to succeed on a diet before and deep down I'm afraid
at failing with this too. I just try to keep telling myself, don't start it
and you'll be ok. I wish you lots of luck in your journey and you are doing
great!!! I'm proud of you and all of us here for being strong enough to go
through this, it's not easy no matter what anyone says and it's definitely not
the easy way out. Take care and good luck!
Hugs,
Laurette
4/23/04 open rny
309/290/226/160
St. Vincent Charity
Cleveland, Ohio

i was not offended at all by what you said, and i know that in may case that
cheating with soda and drinking my calories got me to where i am. And this is a
tool that i am using as best i can. I am doign so well comparative to what i
woudl have any other "diet" but i do see your point that any cheating can be
detramental but my docotr has sadi that down the line you can eat soem of those
thign sthat dont make you dump it jsut as long as your protein intake is
fullfilled. but i was testing it and see what the toher person said about it
being such a small amount. BUT thanks fo rhte imput i am jstu a worry wort!
MElisa
"Life may not be the party we hoped for, but while we are here we might as well
dance!"
Misa

DO NOT CLICK ON THIS SITE!
mttkern9832 <mttkern9832@...
Sorry the url web site has changed to : http://www.spy-nuker.com
Try for free this great program.

Hey guys. I know that we have heard from Presh, but have we heard from Leigh?
Leigh had her surgery on the 30th. Just curious and concerned about her.
Hopefully I just missed her email.
Dora
Lap RNY 9-20-04
Vanderbilt Hospital
Nashville, TN
446-426-165
-Nobody can make you feel inferior without your permission.-
Eleanor Roosevelt

Melisa,
Unfortunately that is where your work comes into play. I too had hoped that I
would not tolerate sugar. I found out by accident that it did nothing to me.
I, before I even realized what I was doing, put a piece of icing in my mouth and
then paniced because I was sure it would make me sick. It did not. So I
figured that I will probably be able to eat the sugar that got me in trouble in
the first place. That is where I come into the equation. I have to just stay
away from those things that made me fat in the first place. I know, easier said
than done. I am with you.
But in my effort to get my protein in there really is no room for sweets. I
enjoy a half cup of sf pudding now and then made with carb countdown milk so
that it is a good source of protein. But I have to make that choice not to
start on the sweets. Use this tool. And when you feel like eating the sweets
come to the computer and start typing. That is how I have gotten over more than
a couple of the cravings that I have had.
Good luck to you. It is going to be a struggle but so well worth it. Hang here
with us. We will help get you through and hopefully you will do the same for
me.
Dora
Lap RNY 9-20-04
Vanderbilt Hospital
Nashville, TN
446-426-165
-Nobody can make you feel inferior without your permission.-
Eleanor Roosevelt

Kristen,
I think that most of us have had one person or maybe more who have not agreed
with our decisons. You know better than anyone if this surgery is right for
you. Only you can make that decision. And once you have made it, as it looks
like you have, don't let anyone talk you out of it. If you feel in your heart
and soul that this is the answer for you go for it. I learned that the one
person who was really against this surgery for me came around after I really
informed her of what it is all about. Her misgivings were fear and
misunderstanding. Sit down with them and let them know exactly what you are
going to have done. Let them know that you have extensively researched this and
answer any questions that they might have. But also be firm and let them know
that you are an adult and this is the decision that you have made for yourself.
No, this is not the easy answer. It is not he "quick fix" that most people who
have not researched it think. You know the risks, you know the dangers but you
have made your own decisions. Stick to you guns if you feel this is what you
need to be healthy. I found that my friend eventually came around. But you
know what. If she hadn't I still would have done it. Do what is best for you.
Dora
Lap RNY 9-20-04
Vanderbilt Hospital
Nashville, TN
446-426-165
-Nobody can make you feel inferior without your permission.-
Eleanor Roosevelt

Patty,
That is awesome!!!! You went into the hospital on Wednesday and left the
following night? That is awesome. Keep up the good work. I hope it all goes
very smoothly for you.
Dora
Lap RNY 9-20-04
Vanderbilt Hospital
Nashville, TN
446-426-165
-Nobody can make you feel inferior without your permission.-
Eleanor Roosevelt

Laurette,
Thanks. I just feel like this is so stupid, but I can't get it out of my mind.
Rationally I know that I will loose much more but I never have and can't
comprehend that. Thanks for listening and giving some help.
Dora
Lap RNY 9-20-04
Vanderbilt Hospital
Nashville, TN
446-426-165
-Nobody can make you feel inferior without your permission.-
Eleanor Roosevelt

Sorry the url web site has changed to : http://www.spy-nuker.com
Try for free this great program.

Kerry,
Good question. I am almost 3 weeks post-op and I have some of these same fears.
Glad to see you on in the group.
P.s. San Antonio is just one of the most beautiful cities. How lucky to live
there.
Dora
Lap RNY 9-20-04
Vanderbilt Hospital
Nashville, TN
446-426-165
-Nobody can make you feel inferior without your permission.-
Eleanor Roosevelt

I wouldn't wrry about it at this point. Everyone is different, but
half of a sugar cookie is not that much sugar honestly and eating
half of a sugar cookie once in awhile isn't a big deal. I bet if you
ate two of those cookies it would be a different story. Popcorn
hardly has any sugar in it and unless it was soaked in the fake
butter crap, you only have a handful, so that's not a lot of fat
either. I cheated and ate an oatmeal cookie a couple weeks ago and I
didn't dump either. I was a bit concerned but I dumped when I tried
eating unsweetened apple sauce just a few days ago. If you realy
want to see if you are going to dump, eat something really sugary.
You'll regret it for a while if you dump, but you'll feel better
knowing!! And also, it's only been 3 weeks, your stomach is still in
shock and probably not behaving as it will in a month or two when
you have healed more. I ate yogurt every morning for two weeks or so
and starting 4 days ago, I dumped every time I ate it. I guess my
stomach decided it didn't like even the natural sugars in yogurt.
Just give it some time Melissa and try not to freak out about it. I
know that's hard, I freak out every day about something that seems
so silly later!!!

First putting weight back on. Anyone determined to put the weight
back on regardless of which procedure you have will put the weight
back on. You merely start eating/drinking more calories than you burn
up. This may or may not be deliberate, it can have all sorts of reasons.
None of these surgeries are magic wands they don't take the decision
to eat or what you eat away from you. They are tools to help you
retrain yourself to eat fewer calories and exercise more. Our bodies
are extremely efficient with calories and we have work harder and take
in less calories than thin folks. The surgery helps us to do this but
can be defeated.
Open/LAP RNY - permanently reduces the size the of stomach so feeling
full comes quicker and staying full is longer. If you over eat you
can have pain and dumping. Some folks also dump on sugars or fats,
this is not an absolute for everyone. If your opening to the
intestines fails (gets very large) and this is about < 3% of the cases
you will not get the full sensation and need to return to the surgeon.
You can fail this by drinking your calories or eating soft high
calorie foods that leave the stomach faster. You will have problems
absorbing some vitamines and minerals and will have to use supplements
for the rest of your life. Protein is the first consideration when
you eat then you can eat veggies and fruit if you have room. You can
have some goodies, but you have to test and see.
DS, your stomach is also reduced but not as small as the Open RNY so
you will not be able to eat to your hearts content either. This
procedures works primarily because it is a malabsorbtion procedure.
You can dump with this procedure and you definitely will 'dump' from
your colon if you eat the wrong foods or too much. What I was told
when I looked into this is this procedure will cause you to drop the
most weight quickly but after 2 years both procedures show the same
percentage of weight lose. However with this procedure you must
follow your diet very carefully and if you do eat breads, sugars and
fats it will run right through you and you will spend a lot of your
time in the bathroom. A direct quote from a doctor who does these
procedures is "Jobs have been lost by patients who had the procedure
and then returned to eating fatty surgary high caloric foods because
of the odor in the office from the bathroom" Keep this in mind, you
know yourself will you be able to follow the diet very carefully.
Now that said you will always be able to eat a larger quantity that
someone with RNY Open or LAP. Obesityhelp.com would be a good site
for you to begin your research they have forums for folks who are
thinking about or have had all kinds of gastric surgery. You will
find folks who love the procedure and folks who have had terrible
problems. This isn't perfect for everyone, no surgery is there can be
problems and complications.
Find sites with descriptions and hopefully pictures or diagrams of the
surgeries see what they actually do. Talk to more than one doctor and
see which one fits you best. Maybe with the weight you have to lose
the doctors will want to do one procedure rather than another, folks
like me cannot make that decision for you. You may or may not have to
lose weight before the surgery, will you be able to do this. Finally
decide if at this time in your life have you decided that this is your
only option because this is not a miracle cure it is a tool and
nothing else.
Maryanne

Hey Ladies and gents,
I am worried. When i found out about this surgery i was very excited that it
would help me with my weight battle adn it has down 22lbs in almsot 3 weeks. But
i have discovered that i dont dump like i had hoped. sounds silly to want it but
feeling that way woudl so help withthe sweets andthe fatty foods that i lkove so
much. Well just being the curious creature i am whielmakign sugar cookines
withthe kids i tried half of one. jsut mademe slightly flushy and a little puky
never threw up... then last ngiht i went to the movies with my son adn had a
handfulof popcorn adn it didnt do anything. I am afraid that i will defeat
thsisurgery... i guess iw ill have to be prudent adn just not touch the stuff.
Has anyone else had this fear? I am eating pretty much what i want at this point
and see that soem of us are still eating purree at months out... iguess that i
shoudlb e thankfull i dotn know jsut a litte scared now i guess. Dont want to
end up fat again like a close friend o f mine has.
Melisa
9-20-04
242.6/220.5
"Life may not be the party we hoped for, but while we are here we might as well
dance!"
Misa

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Denise.
mttkern9832 <mttkern9832@...
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Your very welcomed, Kerry! I have heard of the WISH Center and your
surgeon. You'll do great and I can also get you in touch with a
local support group in SA/TX (if you want) who are great and helping
me out even in AL...LOL!!! Good luck and please keep us informed on
how things go with you...plus if you have an further questions.
Enjoy my home city since I am unable too right now!
Hugs, Linda in AL.

Hey Patty,
Glad to hear you are home and doing quite well. Hopefully they told
you other fluids you can consume than just Ensure cause that gets
old fast. I lived on my mashed potato's, oatmeal, cream of wheat,
broth, sf jello/puddings, sf pops and Blue Bunny lite 85 yogurt
along with the sf carnation instant breakfast. Yesterday I got my
samples from www.vitalady.com and will start using them as my
protein. I have heard it will be best to get my protein in this way
so I can speed up weightloss and be healthier. Good luck and not
forget to keep us informed on how you are doing. Also...we are here
to support you.
Hugs, Linda in AL.

I am seriously contemplating the duodenal switch (biliopancreative
diversion) over the RNY (either laproscopically or open)... Can
anyone shed some serious light on the differences for me, based on
their own research, not hear-say?
I hope that doesn't sound rude, not my intention. But kinda like
Kerry, I keep flip-flopping on what I want, based on the
knowledgeable doctors available to me, through Aetna. I've read so
much on either, that they're both starting to blend together. I've
been to several seminars as well, based on the doctor's preference,
and frankly it's so much to absorb, but I don't feel as though I am
doing it correctly.
I do not favor the RNY--I've got 210lbs to lose, I enjoy eating,
sometimes in quanity and I don't want dumping. Mr. surgeon right
now, Dr. Terry L. Simpson, Phoenix, Arizona, seems to be totally on
the ball as far as knowledge and safety. I've heard that some
people who have the RNY can slide under the radar more often than
the "switch" and gain their weight back.
Please advise...
thanks VERY much!

Protect your privacy Online
Hello,
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AdWare to your computer without your knowledge. Spyware is a common term for
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to your PC and could cause major problems with your PC.
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Welcome Kristin, I am Pat and I am 8 weeks post-op. I too, heard
that I wasn't that big. I feel 200% better since my surgery. You
have thought about this for 2 years and if you are still thinking
about it it might be right for you. I only wish I could have had
the surgery 20 years ago before the diabetes and other illness (and
aches and pains) started. You will find lots of information and pep
talks on this board. Good Luck
Pat in RI

Hi y'all...I am fixing to get myself set up for this. I started down
this road 2 years ago and chickened out right before i scheduled a
date. I think maybe, while my body was ready for it, my head was'nt.
Now I think both agree with each other. In spite of being really,
really well educated on all of this (I assist in the procedure itself
as a surgical technologist, I am a nursing student and I have
personally worked with the doctor that is doing my procedure), I am
still very apprehensive. I know that this is my decision, and it is
for my health. Unfortunatly my family disagrees. my mom's statement
was "you're not one of those people, you don't need that." Well, she
needs to take a better look at me cause I don't know what she defines
as "those people", but what ever it may be, I am and i do need this.
I am plain and simple...fat and don't want to be anymore. 2 years ago
i could not convince myself that i had done enough to take the weight
off myself. Now, 2 yrs later, I feel i can say that i have. I think
what i really need is for someone to agree with me, that is besides
my shrink, my doctor, my nutritionist, a few of my friends who are
post-GBS and several who aren't, if that makes any sense. i hoping
for a surgery date of early december and right now that is looking
very plausible. I know this is gonna be a tough road. I would worry
about anyone who finds this an easy decision to make. i would love to
have some comments from other folks wo have been there, so that i can
arm myself when i break the news to the parents. I would like thier
support but i must prepare myself to not have it. Thnaks in
advance ...kristin

I guess I am lucky, I didn't have a swallow study done. I think the
dr. checked the staple line while I was still under.
Pat in RI

But when you hit the 20 pound mark before you didn't have a little
pouch! Guess what will happen now if you over do it! (ask how I
know!). by the way Wednesday I was 8 weeks out and have lost 39
pounds, so I tried one drumstick (which I had been craving) from KFC
and within 10 minutes I was throwing it up, so I figured I ate too
fast and tried to eat the thigh with out the skin, again 10 minutes
later I was ... you guessed it. I am still eating canned tuna and
canned chicken ground up real fine in a meat chopper and yogurt,
oatmeal and sf popciles (sp). Go to the dietian on thursday to see
what else I can eat.
Pat in RI

Patty, welcome to the losing side. Glad you are home safe and sound.
Pat in RI

Glad that everything went so well for u. I have heard some things about the
swallow study, how bad is it, don't u have to drink some yucky stuff? I have a
hard time with liquids especially the yucky ones. Hope u continue to have an
easy time of it.
hugs,
Tricia in AL
Patty Schroeder <thumper2252@...
Hello everyone, My surgery actually got moved up to 8am on Wed instead of noon.
I remember waking up in recovery feeling sore and not hardly any pain. I slept
most of the day away. i got up and walked they sechuled my swallow study for 10
am but it was moved to 4pm and no one told me. But it all went good. I had to
wait to see my dr till 5:55pm to be able to leave the hospital. otherwise i am
tolerating ensure and water just fine, Talk to you sll soon.
Patty S
Have a great day!
Patty Schroeder

Hello everyone, My surgery actually got moved up to 8am on Wed instead of noon.
I remember waking up in recovery feeling sore and not hardly any pain. I slept
most of the day away. i got up and walked they sechuled my swallow study for 10
am but it was moved to 4pm and no one told me. But it all went good. I had to
wait to see my dr till 5:55pm to be able to leave the hospital. otherwise i am
tolerating ensure and water just fine, Talk to you sll soon.
Patty S
Have a great day!
Patty Schroeder

I can't believe your doctor is letting you have meat so soon!! My
surgery was 09/14/2004 and meat won't be added for quite a while.
The only soft foods I can have are beans, cheese, and eggs and such.
No meat. WOW. Good luck and eat something good for me!!!

Just curious to know why you are having the surgery. Is it because
of health reasons only?
That is great that you are comfortable with who you are on the
outside but you will still be the same person on the inside after
surgery. It doesn't change that. It may change your confidence
levels or your approach to things but you will still be the same
person.
I know that I always felt like my fat hid me from the world when in
fact it made me more visible and vulnerable.
Having lost 123 LBS now I can honestly say that I was never
comfortable in the body I was in no matter how much I wanted to be.
The fat did not protect me from any hurt or harm and all it did was
hurt and harm me more...Physically and emotionally.
I no longer feel shame and pain when I walk into a room. I no longer
feel embarassed for my husband out in public when we are together. I
used to avoid public places or going anywhere with my husband just
because *I* felt embarassed for him even though he said he was never
embarassed.
I hope this answers the questions you asked Kerry! My best to you!
Colleen
lap-rny 11/03/03
315/192

man, your ducks were together! That's awesome! The staff there is nice and the
facility is even nicer! I love that everything is size-wise for people luck us.
I am glad he's working out for you! That's awesome. I hope it goes really
smoothly for ya!
Terri <teddi_az@...
Matthew`
I had no problem with Dr. Batay-Csorba sending my letter right away
but I did go to my appointment prepared with a list of all the diets
and programs I've been on, including the past 8 months of Weight
Watchers. As for bringing my own CPAP machine, that is preferable
considering that mine is set to my own personal needs and I have been
used to using it for a couple of years. I don't know about other
people but once I got used to my machine I don't adapt too well to
different ones, which I had to use a different one last night for my
sleep study - very uncomfortable! So, to me that practice makes
perfect sence! I must admit I was very impressed with the facility
there and the open RNY was my first choice. Anyway - best of luck to
you too and thank you for the warm welcome - we'll definetly have to
keep in touch!
Terri

This is normal at the stage you are at. Your pouch takes months to
heal. Right now it is still very tender and swollen. You will not be
able to eat "normally" for a long long time.
You have already solved part of your problem on your own here by
recognizing that you need to chew VERY slowly and take very small
bites.
Introduce one new food at a time to your very tender new pouch just
like you would introduce food to a baby.
As time goes on it won't be as bad and you will get used to eating a
certain way and it will become second nature to you. In the
beginning it is a LOT of trial and error. Just remember that you
have been through MAJOR surgery and you need to be patient with
yourself and give it all time to heal.
You will soon feel so much better. Right around week 7 or 8 I think
I felt a huge difference and the weight just kept melting off for
those first 6 months so it was a very exciting time.
Enjoy your accomplishments and make sure to reward yourself for all
the good things and all the milestones you will be seeing along the
way.
My best to you!
Colleen
lap-rny 11/03/03
315/192/???

I feel so much better on the inside. I know people
view me differently on the outside and that makes me
feel better about myself. After doing research I
decided on the RNY because the band seemed like too
much work and not enough success for me. Besides,
it's a fairly new procedure and there just wasn't
enough info on it. I also didn't like the idea that
if you weren't losing weight, to go in and have the
tube adjusted tighter. I've also heard that people
can eat their way around the band. I wanted to make
certain I was getting a procedure that would work.
Good luck,
Shannon in WA

Matthew,
My husband's uncle used to make jokes that I was a cheap date and he needed to
keep me because I did not drink when we went out. Not opposed to it, but
someone had to be the dd. So after dinner I told him that he needed to call
Uncle Billy and let him know just how cheap a date I am now. He laughed at that
one.
I am going out to dinner tonight with my mother. Not sure what will be on the
menu, but the doctor told me to start playing with soft foods and eat them as I
tolerate them. Already know I can tolerate pork because I had it last night.
I have not been online much lately, but promise to not be a stranger.
Dora
Lap RNY 9-20-04
Vanderbilt Hospital
Nashville, TN
446-426-165
-Nobody can make you feel inferior without your permission.-
Eleanor Roosevelt

Hi Dora,
Glad you were able to get the staples out today and it wasn't so bad. I
don't think what your feeling at all is stupid. I know exactly how your feeling
and I'm sure a lot of the rest of us are too. I think it's just that we're
used to the ups and downs we've experienced in weight loss over the years that
it's hard fo us to comprehend how things are now. I remember when I was in
Weight Watchers I would do really well for the first 25 pounds or so then I too
never seemed to go any farther. I was never able to follow-through with any
diet. We just have to keep telling ourselves this time we will succeed. We've
been blessed with this tool to help us and WE WILL SUCCEED!!!!! Take care Dora
and you are such a wonderful person. Just love reading your posts and words
of wisdom.
Hugs,
Laurette
4/23/04 open rny
309/290/227/160
St. Vincent Charity
Cleveland, Ohio

Matthew,
It is good to hear from you. I unfortunately don't know much about what you are
asking. But I do know that it is something that hits young guys too. My best
friend & cousin is 33 and he had some major prostate problems when he was 32 as
well. He is fine now and has a clean bill of health. Eventhough I don't have
answers for you I wanted you to know that I am still praying for you and will
add this to my list. Hang in there and I hope you get some answers.
Dora
Lap RNY 9-20-04
Vanderbilt Hospital
Nashville, TN
446-?-165
-Nobody can make you feel inferior without your permission.-
Eleanor Roosevelt

I went yesterday to finally have my staples taken out. How wonderful do I feel
now!!!! And just like you guys kept telling me, it was nothing. A couple of
them stung a little because they were placed so close together that he had to
pull them together. But other than that I really did not feel most of them. I
was freaking for nothing.
And I lost 20 pounds. That is awesome that I could loose 20 pounds in 2 weeks.
But here comes the stupid thing that keeps running through my mind. Be
forewarned that I know it is stupid but it is there just the same. The last 3
times I joined weight watchers I never made it to the 20 pound mark. And I am
thinking, well is this it for me. I hit the 20 pound mark, will I actually
loose more? I told you it was stupid and irrational, but that is what deep down
I really feel. That I won't loose the weight. Am I alone in this?
Dora
Lap RNY 9-20-04
Vanderbilt Hospital
Nashville, TN
446-?-165
-Nobody can make you feel inferior without your permission.-
Eleanor Roosevelt

Advice I can give you...
If you don't have insurance check to see if you can get on State Aid Insurance.
I have heard of several people that were able to get this surgery done using
State Aid Insurance. As for donations, personally I think your best bet would
be to seek out your family & close friends or perhaps check with your church.
Good Luck..
Elizabeth
garvey43812 <garvey43812@...
I am a 24 yr old female in ohio. I am 5'7" tall and I weigh 280lbs. I
have bad knees, a bad back, I can't stand up in one place for a long
time, I can't bend over, I can't even have children. I am miserable
and my dream is to have this surgery. I am looking for anyone willing
to help my dream come true either by making a donation or by giving
advice. Please help!

Hey Guys.. I know this may sound silly but I don't know how to go in and view
pictures. Where do I go?
Linda Lou <iamllu@...
Hey Kim,
Lovely Picture!!! I have to repeat myself...you are such an
inspiration to us all! Thanks for being here with us.
Big hugs, Linda in AL.

I always said that too but love took me on this journey to AL. I am
learning to like it but sure miss my family and friends back home.
Not sure where we will land once the stepkids are out of high school.
Hugs, Linda

Big Hugs to you Linda...Thank you :)
Kim
Linda Lou <iamllu@...
Hey Kim,
Lovely Picture!!! I have to repeat myself...you are such an
inspiration to us all! Thanks for being here with us.
Big hugs, Linda in AL.

Hey Family,
My husband makes this great cheesecake and lucky for me I can eat
cottage cheese and not feel like barfing..LOL!!! Here it is and I
hope you all can enjoy it too. Hugs, Linda
Cheesecake
1-16oz low fat cottage cheese--smoothest you can find
2- 8oz cream cheese bars
1- 8oz sour cream
1/2 cup of splenda
3 eggs
Sugar free chocolate syrup and powdered Cocoa to taste if a
chocolate flavored cheesecake is desired (we made it and its great)
Light cool whip for topping is optional
2 light graham cracker crust pie pans (or other you would prefer)
Preheat oven to 350 degrees
Beat cottage cheese till smooth as possible in a separate bowl.
Mix in another bowl, cream cheese, sour cream, splenda and eggs
together.
Combine bowls and mix.
Fill pie crust.
Bake for 1 hour or until toothpick/knife come's out clean.
Cool then chill before eating...taste much better that way.
ENJOY!!!

Hey James,
Your doing great!!! Keep up the good work.
Hugs, Linda in AL.

Hey Kerry,
I am Linda and just moved almost 3 yrs ago to AL from San Antonio
and boy do I miss home!!!! I was born and raised there so its been
a learning curve for me. Who is your surgeon? Mine was going to be
Dr. Pilcher when I was going to have it back in 2001 but lost my
Insurance so it didn't happen.
I can understand your comment/question concerning your fears. I
have been overweight most of my life, chubby as a child and always
10-20 pounds overweight in High School. I did those stupid diets
which only compounded what I'd lost into doubling or tripling it. I
can remember my brief thin days but have had dreams/nightmares prior
to my surgery on 9/7 concerning my life when it happens as a much
thinner person. I can relate to being comfortable with yourself as
I was too but the pain from my back, hips, knees and ankles along
with asthma was making my life miserable. It became necessary for
me to make this decision to better my life and health. You will
slowly come to terms with your smaller self as you shrink from who
you are to who you will be later on...but remember...your still the
same person just much healthier and I believe happier too. I am 4
weeks since surgery and lost 30 pounds...I feel much better
physically and mentally. Hope this helps you some but its been a
long day and I might have started rambling...LOL!!!
Big hugs, Linda in AL.

Hey Kim,
Lovely Picture!!! I have to repeat myself...you are such an
inspiration to us all! Thanks for being here with us.
Big hugs, Linda in AL.

Hey Melissa,
Your doing fantastic!!!! Keep up the good work! Happy belated
Birthday too!!!!!!!
Big Hugs, Linda in AL.

My name is Kerry and I am from San Antonio. I have already been
approved by the insurance company and am now waiting for my surgery
to be set up. I am enjoying reading the comments being made by the
support group. Now I have a comment or question for you. I find
myself fearing who I will become as a thinner person. I have been
overweight my entire life. I am very comfortable with who I am. I
don't know if I want to leave that comfort zone I have created for
myself. For those of you who have lost weight, do you feel like a
different person on the inside? Has it changed who you always
were? (Other than the weight loss part.)
I am also curious why some of you chose the band instead of the
gastric bypass.

My name is Kerry and I am from San Antonio. I have already been approved by the
insurance company and am now waiting for my surgery to be set up. I am enjoying
reading the comments being made by the support group. Now I have a comment or
question for you. I find myself fearing who I will become as a thinner person.
I have been overweight my entire life. I am very comfortable with who I am. I
don't know if I want to leave that comfort zone I have created for myself. For
those of you who have lost weight, do you feel like a different person on the
inside? Has it changed who you always were? (Other than the weight loss part.)

Cindy,
I am an asthmatic and often have to take this drug. What kind did you get?
Is it called a "medrol dose pack" where it tells you how much to take every
day? If so it is not real cortizone. It will not make u gain weight. If you are
slowly stepping down it probably is real pregnazone. It will cause some water
weight. BUT... it will go away. I would take it. The weight gain is not perm.
and also... I have noticed that after I take it... a few weeks later I am
smaller than when I started because i get an upset stomach from the pills and
eat
less.
Beth

Hi Linda, I am so thrilled that things went so well with u. I'm concerned about
the shakes, I have never been a milk drinker so hope I can get them down. That
stuff they gave u to drink when u went for your physcial, ooooh that stuff was
gross. If I had to take one more swallow I would have upchucked right there.
But I am determined to follow all the orders for I want to quit taking all these
meds, course I will still have to take some of the meds, some for the rest of my
life. Think I should have invested in a Pharmacy yrs ago if I had known that I
would be spending so much money each month on meds. It was $600 a month but I
have changed some meds recently so this month it was just a few dollars over
$400.
I knew the surgery would be expensive but wow that's a lot of money. Our
insurance pays 80% and I have all ready paid fees to the dr and for the
nutrionist, and pt. I didn't have to pay $100 for the physic evalution and the
pulmonary for I have been under their care since 2001, so all I had to pay was
my co-pay. I can imagine some of those dreams especially so soon after surgery,
I'm hoping to sleep much better when I can come off the c-pap, it's no fun to
sleep with that on your face at night I feel like a dog that has had to wear a
muzzle over his face:). So maybe when I'm rid of that I can sleep better.
Did the dr set your goal weight or do u choose yourself. They had a little
chart to go by in our material we received, but according to that I'm suppose to
get to 122 lbs. I'm not a teenager any more, unfortunately I'm a middle aged
woman so my goal is 130. My hubby will be shocked to get back to a normal
weight for my heighth. I was 110 when we married wore a size 8, then after
having my kids I got back down to 116 but this was back in the 70's. I'm
concerned about the loose skin, what do u do to hide that, till u get ready to
have the tummy tuck. I was told u had to wait at least a yr after your surgery,
but do u know whether our insurance will cover something like that.

You lose weight very quickly with DS, faster than with any other kind
of surgery, but you have a stricter diet afterwards than with the Open
RNY as far as sugars and fats from what I understand. I had the Open
RNY and once I can eat solid food I can eat what I want and what I can
tolerate as long as I get my protein in. But DS you can eat a larger
quanity than I will ever be able to eat, but it will go right through
you. If you eat fats and sugars you will be right in the bathroom
according to my doctor.
Think very carefully about what you surgery you want because DS has
some side effects that were not acceptable to me such as tremendous
malabsorbtion and everything running right through you. But living
for the rest of my life with a smaller stomach and limited amount of
space for food I could live with you might decide differently.
You need to decide what you give up it worth it or you will have a
very hard time.

Ok everyone I know I havent been around much...Sorry Hi to all the newbies...I
am Kim I had open on 5-5-03 with Dr Peter Henderson in Bruinswick GA...I was 243
the day of surgery and today I was 110....I am only 5'2 I did wear a size 26 now
I can wear 2/4's and Jrs 3s....I had a friend take this picture of me this past
sunday....I am finally not looking in the mirror and seeing Fat Kim anymore....I
hope I can help all of you the best I can...I feel like a person again...and No
I have not had any plastic work yet.....
Good Luck to those who have just gotten their surgries welcome to the losing
side...and to those who are trying take it one day at a time....It will happen
for you...
Big Hugs to all...and check out my new picture lol
Kim

Hi Terri, my name is Tricia I'm 54 and 5'1' and weigh 230. A mother of 2 grown
men. My oldest son is married and lives in Ark with his family, so I'm a proud
grandmother of 1 special little girl, she is 6 and is in first grade. My other
son is a bachelor and lives near us. My hubby and I have been married for 33
yrs. I too have fibro have had it since 99, I also have the sleep apnea, plus
diabetes and uncontrolled high b/p and some mild heart problems, my surgeon sent
the insurance a letter too about being a medical necessity. So right now I am
waiting to hear from them. I haven't been in the group too long but I know it's
a caring group and is filled with special folks who don't mind answering our
questions and sharing with us their experiences with the wls. There is so many
e mails that I can't answer all of them. I don't know about u but I can't sit at
the comptuer for long periods thanks to fibro. But I have learned a lot from
the emails that I have read.
Do u live in Ariz? I know some of us have to travel a distance to our surgeons.
I have to make a 3hr drive to his office and hospital, but I wanted to go to
someone who was experienced in this field and I got great feedbacks from all of
my drs about this surgeon. Just make yourself at home here and ask any
questions u want, there will be someone who will have the answer to your
questions and to encourage us along the way.
Hugs,
Tricia in AL
harleybreeze57 <harleybreeze57@...

Hi Matthew,
I'm sure these drs all have their own way of what we can or can not have. They
told me no citrius fruit but that I could eat canned fruit that is in it's
natural sugar. But I'm still pre-op too so have no experience to go by.
Tricia in AL
Matthew <cactusflyer9@...
Okay folks... my colon doesn't know what hit it. I am about 3-4
months pre-op right now. What I wanna know is, after I have "the
switch," duodenal switch that is, can I still go to Krogers and buy
the frozen-fresh bags of whole fruit (no syrup) and sit down and eat
it? Modifying my volume obviously... but I eat about 4-5 cups of
mango, strawberry and pineapple every day. I didn't ever think
frozen-fresh fruit was any good until I final bought some.
Sure takes the prep time out, and no-need to add sugar...
any feedback on the subject? I am only asking because I know we're
supposed to watch our sugar intake and fruit can have a lot of sugar
naturally. I don't wanna dump!
Thanks,
Matthew

I am a 24 yr old female in ohio. I am 5'7" tall and I weigh 280lbs. I
have bad knees, a bad back, I can't stand up in one place for a long
time, I can't bend over, I can't even have children. I am miserable
and my dream is to have this surgery. I am looking for anyone willing
to help my dream come true either by making a donation or by giving
advice. Please help!

I was given steroid epidural treatments a few months after my
surgery and was told if I needed to go on oral steroids it can cause
weight gain BUT the treatment period is usually so short that this
would not be an issue.
I think it is only long term steroidal use that causes significant
weight gain.
Colleen
lap-rny 11/03/03
315/192

Hi Maria
I had surguary 1 year ago (happy anniversary to me) 10/1/03. at North Shore
with Dr. Gataleta lap. As of today i have lost 120lbs. I'am wearing a size 10
and loving every minute of life. I have 3 children also and was very afraid
of the whole process. I didn't want to die my children are young all under
12. Anyhow, I don't know much on those dr.'s but North Shore Surgical Center
in Manhassett is were I went and had lap RNY it went without a single problem.
Done on Wednesday morning and home to picking my kods up at school on Friday
2:00. By the Grace of God!! If you live in the city then go where you have,
but I'am in Queens and Long Island was close for me. Let me know what you
decide and Best of luck!
Maria
Lap RNY
10/1/03
300/179/150????
5' 6"

Okay folks... my colon doesn't know what hit it. I am about 3-4
months pre-op right now. What I wanna know is, after I have "the
switch," duodenal switch that is, can I still go to Krogers and buy
the frozen-fresh bags of whole fruit (no syrup) and sit down and eat
it? Modifying my volume obviously... but I eat about 4-5 cups of
mango, strawberry and pineapple every day. I didn't ever think
frozen-fresh fruit was any good until I final bought some.
Sure takes the prep time out, and no-need to add sugar...
any feedback on the subject? I am only asking because I know we're
supposed to watch our sugar intake and fruit can have a lot of sugar
naturally. I don't wanna dump!
Thanks,
Matthew

Hey Teddi, you're right up the street from me. I am in Chandler.
Did Barix Dr. Czorba just turn in a letter for approval? For me they told me I
needed 6months of this and 6months of that. I was so depressed, I went
somewhere else. I was also concerned because they don't offer anything other
than the open RNY, and they require you to bring your own sleep apnea equipment.
I am having my done w/Dr. Terry Simpson @ Maryvale Hospital. Not the best
hospital, but it's prepared for his "larger than life" patients. They have a
whole floor dedicated for his patients.
Other doctor's facilities told me it didn't seem to be the best set of practices
to have to bring your own equipment.
Nonetheless, please keep in touch, and I would love to chat with you on or off
the board.
I am 6.2" tall and 402lbs, so I've got some weight of my own that needs
attention.
Do you have a surgery date? I know they only do them on Mondays. I am looking
to have the laproscopic biliopancreatic diversion, otherwise known as the
duodenal switch.
They also take out my appendix and gal bladder at the same time, at no
additional cost to aid the patient in a pain-free, gal-stone free recovery.
Take Care, Matthew
Terri <teddi_az@...
OK - I'm really new here and just wanted to introduce myself. My name
is Terri, Teddi is a lifelong nickname though and so I go by either. I
am a 44 year old mother of 5 and at 5'4" tall I currently weight 288
pounds. I have "significant" sleep apnea as well as fibromyalgia. I
have had my first consultation with Dr. Batay-Csorba at the Barix
Clinic in Scottsdale, Az., and my letter of medical necessity has been
sent to my insurance. I just wanted to say what a great comfort and
encouragement it is to know that all are here for support and help. I
am looking forward to getting to know many of you very well!
Terri

Hi Michelle,
I know for me it was hard to get used to eating slowly. I was always a
golper. The best advice I can give is to chew, chew and chew somemore. You
need
to make sure your food is really moist. I am almost 6 months out and I still
have a little trouble with chicken and pork. I tend to stick with softer foods
like fish, tuna fish, meatloaf. It will get easier as we get used to our new
bodies and what they can handle. Keep your chin up and good luck!!
Laurette
4/23/04 open rny
309/290/226/150
St. Vincent Charity
Cleveland, Ohio

Hi everyone! I'm taking one day at a time with my post-op depression
and it seems to be lifting slightly. I do need more help, though. I
am only about a month out now, and I am moving to the solid food
stage. I notice, though, that I tend to vomit if I eat too fast or
don't chew well enough. Can anyone tell me if this is going to be a
permanent change, or if it will get better as time goes on. It seems
I vomit over the smallest things lately and my pouch is really sore
today because of all of the vomiting. I have been trying to take it
slow and chew well and take breaks between bites, but it is
difficult when you are used to eating so quickly.
Thanks,
Michelle

Hi Vee,
I bet right about now you are feeling a bit groggy from surgery this
morning. Just wanted to let you know that my thoughts and prayers are
with you for a speedy recovery. Know that these first few weeks will
be rough, but as each day goes by, it gets a little easier, I am jsut
over 4 months post-op and my only change would have been to have this
done sooner. Anyways, best wishes, hun, see you soon.
Donna
Open RNY 6/1/04
315/242/150??

OK - I'm really new here and just wanted to introduce myself. My name
is Terri, Teddi is a lifelong nickname though and so I go by either. I
am a 44 year old mother of 5 and at 5'4" tall I currently weight 288
pounds. I have "significant" sleep apnea as well as fibromyalgia. I
have had my first consultation with Dr. Batay-Csorba at the Barix
Clinic in Scottsdale, Az., and my letter of medical necessity has been
sent to my insurance. I just wanted to say what a great comfort and
encouragement it is to know that all are here for support and help. I
am looking forward to getting to know many of you very well!
Terri

Wow Marla, triplets!!! That would definitely be call for some assistance
post-op :). I am in Atlanta and don¹t know much about the NYC doctors, have
you checked them out on www.obesityhelp.com? They will have testimonials
from patients and everything, which may help you in making your decision. I
have never heard that the Open vs. Lap is ³safer², but I do know that
recovery generally takes less time with Lap. I don¹t think recovery tends to
be too much longer with Open though. Generally the method depends on your
weight, pre-existing conditions, health, and the doctor, the doctor you
choose will let you know which method they feel is best for you. Best of
luck in your journey, it¹s a wonderful road :)!
--
Carrie Sagel Burns
Lap RNY April 9, 2004 (-88 lbs.)
348/260/140 (begin/current/goal)
carrie@... - www.carrieburns.net

Hi there,
I am doing research and looking for a doctor in New York.
I am going to a meeting on Monday at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital in NYC.. it
is required prior to starting the process of surgery.
Has anyone here used Dr. Marc Bessler or Dr. Daniel Davis? I am probably going
to use Dr Davis as Bessler does not take my insurance. My other opton is Marina
Kurian who works out of Lenox Hill and actual did Al Rokers surgery.
Just wondering if anyone can help. I am hoping to have it done Lap Routine Y.
I have also heard that the open surgery is safer but the recovery is long. I am
a Mom to 19mth old triplets... so recovery time is an issue.. but then again I
also want the best options.
Thanks
Marla

Terri,
Glad to hear your doing better. Congrats on your weight loss too, your doing
great. Keep up the good work and each day does get easier. Take care and
good luck, keep us posted.
Laurette
4/23/04 open rny
309/290/227/160
St. Vincent Charity
Cleveland, Ohio

Thanks for the advice on "feel like the life has been sucked out of
me" the 100 calories every two hours has helped me alot, it has
brought some of my energy back, you were right, I wasn't getting
enough to eat. Thanks again.
Terri (HarleyBreeze)
LAP RNY 8/31/2004

Thanks everyone for the advice you gave to my post "feel like the life
has been sucked out of me." It was very useful, and I am improving.
I think the problem was I wasn't getting enough calories in. I have
started eating a small amount about every two hours and that seems to
be helping alot with the energy. I am so thankful to find this group,
because unless you've had this surgery, it's hard to understand what
we go through. It has been 5 weeks and I have lost 36 pounds. Thanks
again!
Terri (HarleyBreeze)
LAP RNY 8/31/2004

Denise,
Take heart in the fact that you are totally normal. I courted that horrible
lover, food for far too many years myself. Most of us are conditioned that when
we feel bad we turn to food because it is always there, it doesn't talk about
us, we don't have to talk to it and it makes us feel better. But you know as
well as I do that the comfort you get from the food only lasts a short time and
then you are needing more. I have been there with you most of my life.
But at least know this. This is a tool that works. I am amazed every day that
I am not hungry. That I am not craving the sweets that I used to crave. It is
like when they went in to do the surgery they turned a switch off. I have cake
and cookies in this house and am not tempted to eat them. I know that this
journey will not be without bumps, but I think that now I have the tools I have
needed all these years to be in control.
Keep your chin up. Being scared is completely normal. But know that this is a
very brave step you are taking to reclaim the life that God gave you. Put that
old lover in its place and walk away from it. And congratulations, you made the
best choice of coming here. I have done the same since surgery. Doing
something different sometimes is all it takes.
Sorry to ramble so long, but I know how you feel and hope that in some way I
have helped. And girl, vent away!
Dora
Lap RNY 9-20-04
Vanderbilt Hospital
Nashville, TN
446-?-165
-Nobody can make you feel inferior without your permission.-
Eleanor Roosevelt

Thank you all for your good vibes belive me I felt
them all the way here in VA!! As you all can see I
haven't slept all night long, it's almost 3am and I
have to get up at 5am to leave for the
hospital...YIKES. I went out to do laundry that
killed some time but now I'm wide awake, hungry cuz I
couldn't eat a darn thing since I started the system
cleaning on Tuesday. I know it gets better and this
is all worth it. I'm off now.
Vee

Hey Tricia,
I had mine lap also and felt so good after the second day...those
two were painful and I was asking for med's as I needed them. They
removed my IV on the second evening and gave me meds by syringe in
my mouth. In the hospital I was on morphine but at home they gave
me Lortab elixir. I only used it for a few nights to sleep since I
was worried (bad dreams..lol)about my taped incisions would open up
and my guts would spill out....can't blame those dreams on spicy
foods either...LOL!!! Yes B/C B/S of AL approved me so quickly I
was in shock. I was told it also depends on the surgeon and their
office and how they filled out the paperwork to them. BTW, my EOB
just came back and I found out the cost of surgery....$34,619.05!
They paid it all and I only owed $200 for my co-pay. I feel totally
blessed with this gift of surgery.
Late November will be here before you know it and you'll be joining
us on the "loosing" side of the journey. Being a member here and
following the post will help you so much with preparing. It did me
plus the friendships are very rewarding...my "other" family means so
much to me and I miss not being here daily life before.
I haven't had any problems walking or keeping anything down (knock
on wood)but food I loved before taste bland or like cardboard. So
ketosis has set in and its maddening for me. I seek food that is
tasty and have tried to stay away from meat because of their taste.
Most shakes are so sweet they make me squirm so I just do the sf
carnation instant breakfast and skim milk. I have a friend sending
me so samples from www.vitalady.com so I'll try them and see if I
like them before ordering any. Don has bought me so much thinking I
can drink them and they are just tooooo sweet for me to stomach.
But let me tell you, I did have a small peppermint patty the other
night and I loved it...sugar and all...LOL!!! I know I wasn't
suppose to have it but I needed something to calm my tummy and they
always used to do the trick before.
I'll email you my phone number to your address you we can keep in
touch in case the computers decide to land in the backyard.
Big hugs, Linda

Hey Tommy,
The best think I can advise you to do is get prepared. Read as much
as possible, do your shopping for post-op and relax. You'll do fine
if you believe in your surgeon and are mentally prepared. I had my
surgery done back on 9/7 and it was wonderful. Do you know if your
surgery will be open or done laporscopic? By the way, ask all the
questions you might have cause you have a valuable resource here
with so many who have already gone through surgery or who have done
extensive research.
Good luck, Linda in AL.

Tommy
congrats on getting your surgery date I will be praying for you that
everything goes well
Love Debbie

Hey Tricia,
I am working full-time at Liberty National Life Ins here in Anniston
but can sell anywhere in Alabama. I started Sept 27th and enjoy
this job because I love meeting people. My biggest selling product
is Cancer Insurance and then it would be Life Insurance. Most would
think the prices would be out of this world but they are so
affordable I was shocked...and so are those I sell too. I have
tried finding work since moving to AL. in Jan. 2002 and heard
everything from over qualified to under qualified to last me a
lifetime. So my husband and I became fosterparents so I'd have a
job and also fill that "empty nest syndrome" I had experienced with
my Son left my hutch. I had been hired at Banker's Life in B'ham in
late July but got tired of the drive and no pay just commissions
while there about 4 weeks...that got old really quick...LOL!!!
Thanks for the congratulations...mean's the world to me! I am now
down or right below my weight I was when I had the picture taken
that is on my profile. Don say's I look just like it again...that
is the pic he fell in love with me by...LOL!!!
Our pc was on the blink also for a few day's and done just cleaned
off alot of stuff and restored it back to a day when it was working
better. Now its fantastic and like new. Its my lifeline to my Son
in the Navy so I had to have it working and was so lost when it was
down for about 5 day's. I missed this family too!!!!
My surgery when so well I was out going to a Karate Tournament 4
day's afterwards. For a firsttime surgery I feel it went just like
they told me, from the pre-admission to the recovery. I can't tell
you how impressed and safe I felt with all those loving
individuals. They actually made me feel to happy and relaxed. I'd
recommend my surgeon, Dr. Clifford Black and the hospital,
Stringfellow Memorial anyday.
Big hugs, Linda

Hey Matthew,
I honestly done have a clue but wanted to tell you that if I find
out something I'll be sure to let you know. I am glad also your
doctor is aware and is taking precautions. Lots of thoughts and
prayers coming your way.
Hugs, Linda in AL.

Hi Vee,
Seems just like yesterday you were telling us how long it would be
until your surgery and WALA...its here now!!! Wishing you a
speeding recovery and a wonderful journey. Your in our thoughts and
prayers.
Hugs, Linda in AL.

Thanks Tricia i am in NJ and as soon as i get this pre-op stuff done i can get a
date. Tomorrow i am back to the cardio doc and thats done just have to wait for
the results. And now if i can get the sleep study ppl to get the lead out of
their b.....e...hinds i will be a very happy camper.Once all the results are in
from everything i will get my date. I am thinking November i will get my date.
Denise.
Patricia Waldon <mknaynay98@...
Hi Denise,
I know how u feel, I have seen all the drs they required except he wants me to
see a neurologist just was a precaution but not expecting any problem there I
had a MRI back in the spring and everything was ok. I saw my surgeon on the
22nd of Sept and he told me that I will probably(sw) will have my surgery the
latter part of Nov. that is if the insurance ok,s it but he seem to think there
would be no problem with the insurance.. So I'm excited like u, finally after
all the waiting we are nearing the end. Where do u live Denise? Hang in there
won't be long before either of us will hear from the dr as to our big day.
Hugs,
Tricia in AL
brooke sheilds <bbwstrumpette@...
hehehe Pat breathe breathe right ? Ok ok i am calm. I am just so happy i have
been waiting for this surgery since 1999 and now it is finally coming to
reality.And i made it happen all by myself and i am proud of myself!
Denise.
Pat <patcole@...
Denise,
Calm down, you are going to give yourself a heart attack! Your
surgery will be here before you know it.
Pat in RI

Welcome to the losing side! (tired side)
Pat in RI

Congratulations and WELCOME to the losing side. Praying for a speedy recovery.
God bless you. Margaret in Vegas
presh711 <elisamlowe@...
Hi All,
Presh here,
All went well and I came home Monday. Kind of tires so I will post
again soon.
Love yall
Presh

I got appoved last week and i am down for surgry on 10-22-04. I
have waited three months to say that hehehehehe

Hi All,
Presh here,
All went well and I came home Monday. Kind of tires so I will post
again soon.
Love yall
Presh

My regular doctor has prescribed prednisone for me, to dry up a
reoccurring ear problem. Is this something that we can take? And,
since it is a steroid and known to cause weight gain, has anyone had
experience with this...pro or con? I've had fluid behind my eardrum for
several weeks now, and it feels like an ear infection. I want to dry it
up and feel better, but the last thing I want to do is stop my weight
loss or, heaven forbid, cause a gain! I have started it, but with fear
and trepidation!
Cindy
Mother of Many

Okay folks, I've got a rough spot here and I am not sure what to
do. Has anyone here had prostate issues in their pre-op surgery
clearence?
I just found out that I have really REALLY bad prostate issues.
It's very painful. It's keeping my wife and I from having sex
because my equipment won't work; when it does work it's VERY painful!
I've recently started seeing a doctor, because I was disturbed one
of walking up 3 mornings in a row, soaked from wetting the bed. I
am 32 years old, that's not supposed to happen. My right leg is
starting to go numb--my prostate is so large (the size of an apple)
that's is hitting nerves now.
Are there any nurses etc., out there that now about prostate
issues? I am in a lot of pain when I urinate, and when I can
finally ejaculate, sometimes even when I have a bowel movement too.
I've got men in my family that've died from prostate issues.
Doc said it was a BLESSING that I finally went to him. Otherwise,
had they opened me for my duodenal switch, with all of that live
bacteria in my system, I probably WOULDN'T HAVE MADE IT HOME FROM
THE HOSPITAL! That's crazy!
Thank God I found out. Can anyone shed some light to this very
personal but enormous problem?
Thanks folks!

Hi Denise,
I know how u feel, I have seen all the drs they required except he wants me to
see a neurologist just was a precaution but not expecting any problem there I
had a MRI back in the spring and everything was ok. I saw my surgeon on the
22nd of Sept and he told me that I will probably(sw) will have my surgery the
latter part of Nov. that is if the insurance ok,s it but he seem to think there
would be no problem with the insurance.. So I'm excited like u, finally after
all the waiting we are nearing the end. Where do u live Denise? Hang in there
won't be long before either of us will hear from the dr as to our big day.
Hugs,
Tricia in AL
brooke sheilds <bbwstrumpette@...
hehehe Pat breathe breathe right ? Ok ok i am calm. I am just so happy i have
been waiting for this surgery since 1999 and now it is finally coming to
reality.And i made it happen all by myself and i am proud of myself!
Denise.
Pat <patcole@...
Denise,
Calm down, you are going to give yourself a heart attack! Your
surgery will be here before you know it.
Pat in RI

Hi Amy,
9 inches, help if I lose that much I won't have anything. I was a 44F in June
of 2003, I had a breast reduction because I had so much pain in my back and neck
and shoulders, it helped that but now I am a 38B. I look out of portion with
the weight gain elsewhere. Guess hubby will be looking for a new woman if end
up with fried eggs in my bust lol.
Congratulations on your 50 pounds lost.
Hugs,
Tricia in AL
Amy Stewart <sunflower02742003@...
well, i am, was a 4DD and i have lost 9 inches in my breast. I am 30 yrs old,
and as i lose the just get smaller, not thin or real saggy.. But i already said
that after i loose everything i will either have a lift or implants put in... I
am concerned with my belly mainley because it had gotten out there.. I had
urgery on 6-23-04 and am down as of yesterday 50 lbs...... as of the 20th of
august i was down 35 inches in all.. some seems to go into place but i am real
concerned with my belly and my wings under my arms..
amy
millasandra <millasandra@...
Don't know how old you are, but at my age gravity has already been
working long and hard on the old things and I will be lucky if I
don't have to roll them up to put them in my bra - just kidding I
think.
If you are young you skin will take up the slack somewhat but you
will lose weight so fast that your skin will not shrink at the same
speed. This doesn't mean it will never firm up but not immediately.
There is nothing I know of that will make your skin ready to snap
back except for youth.
Maryanne

Congratulations Linda,
30 lbs. in 4 weeks is great, I wish u well, sorry I haven't been on much since u
went into hospital, our pc has a mind of it's own. I guess we have just worn
this one out, hope to get a new one soon then I can be on more.
Update me about your surgery, did everything go according to what they told u.
Where are u working? Is it full time or part time? I miss working, worked all
my life until 1999, then God had other plans for me. Keep us posted when u can.
Hugs
Tricia in AL
Linda Lou <iamllu@...
Hey Denise,
I was going to send a post to update other's on my progress but
forgot to last night and its now almost the witching hour for me to
get on to work. I passed yesterday my 4 weeks since surgery and
down almost 30lbs. Its been hard and very challenging for me since
I can't find anything that taste good and its also hard getting my
protein down since getting this job. Late nights are killing me.
Well its only the rest of this week and next then I can breathe
alittle better and get my food/protein in. Hope all is well with
you and I'll be back around lunchtime.
Hugs, Linda

It is going to go fine - stay positive - even when you want to shake
the nurses senseless :-)
Maryanne

Welcome to the group Tommy, I'm fairly new to the group but I can tell u that in
a group this big, someone will be able to answer any questions u might have.
I'm in the waiting stage, hoping the insurance co. won't take too long. I still
have to see one more dr, a neurologist that works in the same building as my
surgeon. The dr is just being cautious since I have Tia's. What stage are u in
at this time?
God bless,
Tricia in AL

Hi Vee,
I will be saying a prayer for u, hope all goes well for u. Keep us posted when
u get back home and feel up to being on the puter.
Hugs,
Tricia in AL
VEECHEER <veecheer@...
Well tomorrow is the big day. Right now I'm kinda
numb but I have been keeping to myself these past
coupld of days and have been staying focused. I'll
leave my house at 5am and register in the hospital at
6am surgery is at 7am. I hope all goes well. I'll
talk to you all next week.
Vee