Deb,
I am so glad to here all went well. Get your rest and keep up on the
fluids... We will be here for you when get back on your feet... Denise R.
Lizanne...Congrats on your surgery. You will not regret it (though
there will be moments that you do!! lol )
I live between Centreville and Chestertown and had my surgery done by
Dr Craig Schaffer in Cambridge. Dr Magnuson was not taking new
patients at the time I wanted mine done. They have an excellent
support group there that meets once a month.
I hear you loud and clear! In the hospital (Which I do NOT recommend anyone
to go to.....New York Hospital Queens) I was questioning my sanity over having
had this operation. Being a nurse I thought I had some inside info on what I
could expect. BULL***T! No one knows what major abdominal surgery is really
like until one experiences it oneself! I am much more empathetic with post-op
patients though. I thought I was going to die from the pain (I am a wuss) and
the
nurses and aides were downright neglectful. Thank God for the advent of the
morphine PCA! I also firmly believe that if a hospital is going to reap the
financial benefits of my WLS, the least they could do is invest in some plus
sized johnny coats! My husband had to modify several of them with scissors for
me
so my arms and neck wouldn't strangle. Among other unpleasant things were the
dreaded radiology test where you swallow 10 times more barium than your tiny
pouch can hold; being parched from the oxygen and morphine and not allowed to
sip or suck on a single thing; Being smushed into a wheelchair designed for a
person weighing 95 lbs; I could go on, but you get the picture. Then after
coming home on the second post-op day, one of my incisions decided it was going
to
begin draining adipose tissue and came open. I am thankful it did not become
infected.
Last week, I found out that my surgeon's office (separate from the hospital
and they have been wonderful to me) did not tell me that my Dr. was not a
participating provider and therefore will only get paid 80% of the bill!!!!!!!!!
I
am now responsible for this balance (~3000.). Not that my new lease on life
isn't worth the money, but I could have easily found a Dr that was on the plan
and covered 100%! Oh well, he will be getting 25. a month forever, lol.
HOWEVER, having said all of that, I would do it all again if I had to to feel
the way I do today! I have lost over one hundred pounds in 4.5 months and
feel like a new person! Although the experience was awful, like being in labor,
I
believe the 'trauma' of it will fade away as I keep feeling better physically
and emotionally.
So, to everyone out there who is pre-op: Good Luck! It sure isn't a bed of
roses, but the aftermath is wonderful!
Danielle M.
Lap RNY 3/31/03
BMI 57
361/254/135
Dr. S. Merola
Queens, NY
Peace Out :o)
you're next on my "inquiring mind". how's it going with surgery less
than a week away? :-)
lori h.
nice to have you onboard kristen. & thanx for sharing your story. my
road hasn't always been smooth, either, but i'm better off in each &
every way because of the struggle, because of the sacrifice(s).
lori h.
15 very grateful months out
Hello, My name is Kristin. I am new to the group but post op 1 year and 3
months. I had lap so it was a little easier than the open. I had pains up high
in my chest and I actually visited the hospital 1 week post because i couldnt
move due to them, it was air in my wound and lessened a couple of months down
the road and eventually subsided. I thought i broke a stitch or something. the
pain inside and the lack of independence was bad afterwards i have to say at
times i wondered if i did the right thing. I didnt have a friend stay with me i
was alone, I liked it that way. Now i say yes. Yes it was worth it. It took me
7 months to be able to say that. Day one after surgery I was so thirsty, no one
would give me a drink or a washrag with water on it, I was slowly getting angry.
Day 2 my blood pressure escalated so i had to stay an extra day, Day 2 i made
them take my morphene iv out and my catheter out, I couldnt take the nurses not
responding to me when i spilled my water on me
because i was too hight to drink it myself and on day 3, after surgery I was
sent home with my drain tube still in and had to have a visiting nurse for 2
weeks afterwards to give me blood thinners and help me relern to take a shower
and so forth. The drain tube was in for 2-3 weeks afterwards and i had to drain
myself... yuck. I drew the line at giving myself shots though... now over a year
later i do my own b-12 injections. I have problems keeping the weight on and
eat spagetti 5 times a day, thats about the only thing that doesnt make me sick
that and veggies. But in trade I have a life. I rollerblade, kayak can be
outside without almost fainting I can actually do yard work, I can get on a
carnival ride without thinking i will break the ride or fall out due to being
too big... funny i know. I just thought i would share. I was 275 and dead, now i
am 150 and full of life. Thought i would share. Kristin
Firebon911@... wrote:Yes, honey I had pains after surgery 1 week post-op..
They were higher up, on
my left side, under my breast... I didn't think it was normal either.. But
doc knows best.. Or does he???? THAT'S AN OPEN ENDED QUESTION... I still have
pains that come and go.. But nothing compares to the fatigue, nausea, and
depression I'm experiencing.. Wonder if anyone out there is feeling this too? Of
course, I have had some major complications that others haven't had, fortunately
for them.. Girl, I'm a realist! I'll tell you the way "it really is", rather
than the way, "it is supposed to be." I don't think EVERYONE out there has had
promising success.. I think some do encounter difficulties that others do
not.. I do hear often "miracle" stories.. I had to get off the network for a
little while because I couldn't bear listening to them anymore being as sick as
I
was.. But slowly, I'm getting just a tiny bit better, so don't lose hope..
Things will most likely get better.. Anyway, how much worse can they get???
Later.
Kimberly Greer
hi peggy, the link works just fine.
lori h.
i tried no one was ther e....
Smile and Count your blessings life is to short
My question is , is there something wrong withthe photo link on the
web site or is it my computer i cant view pics ..
Not a big deal just wondered.
thanks Peggy
I have an idea. If you are on now and reading this realizing that
Calif time is 940 eastern time is 1240, click on chat and lets talk
realtime! Here I go!
Michelle
In a message dated 8/21/2003 12:09:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time,
funmomof2@... writes:
You know you are next in line for all those good thoughts! Do your
thing, listen to the doctor and we'll be right here waiting for you!
Michelle
Thanks Michelle you are a doll :)
Lori Anne
pre-op Lap RNY
8/25/03
And Lori;
Hun, I will be there for you when or if I get strong.. Trust me on this one..
The only stipulation, is if I'm here at all.. (no pun intended).. We're all
family here.. My heart goes out to all of you.. Thanks for being there for me
as well..
Kimberly Greer
Thank you! Wow, I am really impressed. Girls you are amazing!
My strong, spoken sisters!!! You know it takes a "real woman" to speak her
mind.. Thanks.. Michelle, Lori and all the rest who have been totally supportive
in giving out good advice and alternative suggestions.. I will speak to him
tomorrow and tell him what I really think. (Hopefully, I won't be arrested..
lol.. ) No, seriously, I do need to find out what's going on with me.. This is
not good.. To be sick day after day.. I worry, but I don't want to burden
friends and family with my concerns, so I suffer silently in front of them.. Of
course, when I'm constantly throwing up, or sleeping, it's hard to hide, my true
feelings.. I was kind of hoping that some of this was normal, so that I would
have hope that it would all soon pass.. But I guess it isn't.. So if he
doesn't have the answers, I will definitely find someone who will.. I can't keep
going on like this.. I feel horrible.. I feel weak.. I'd be lucky to feel
anything at all at times.. I don't know.. Tomorrow I'm seeing him.. We'll see
what he
does then.. I'm getting very flustered over this.. Very stressed.. It's easy
to get depressed, when you feel like crap.. But to all others, I am happy for
your success.. Maybe it sounds like I come off awfully negative about the
surgery, but with all the problems I've been having, it would be abnormal to
feel
any different.. Talk to all of you later.. And I'll keep u posted..
Kimberly Greer
Lori Anne,
You know you are next in line for all those good thoughts! Do your
thing, listen to the doctor and we'll be right here waiting for you!
Michelle
Thanks for the tip. Where can you get a smoothy machine and will a
blender do the same job??
I have been mixing my protein powder with milk and shaking it with
my hands in a glass with a lid.. thank goodness for tupperware!!
Lori
Open RnY 8/1/03
Hi Jan,
I posted about birthdays, but I didn't have the surgery on my
birthday. What I referred to was that I now have 2 birthdays, the
one I have celebrated for the last 41 years and my new 2nd birthday,
the day I had my RNY. It just so happens that they are 5 days apart.
I think having your surgery on the last day of your 38th year is a
great way to celebrate, but any day you have your surgery is the day
you start living the rest of your life! Congratulations on your
decision.
Michelle
Lap RNY 8/12/03
215/203/? TBD
I'm sure the courts will look at all of this and hear
both sides of the story. Are you going to court as
well? Good Luck!
--- angel_of_mercy_911 <angel_of_mercy_911@...
Ok, I'm confused...the three sets of numbers...before surgery/1st year/2nd year
or pre surgery/day after surgery/goal? I am new to all of this....help!
Carol Matar
I just got home from the mall and am sipping on a protein smoothie...and LOVING
it! I am so shocked! A fellow WLS friend suggested this product called Designer
Whey and it is GREAT! I was such a baby that I was mortified to get it, but
since I'm only 2 weeks out and not getting near enough protein from meats yet, I
figured I'd best get my butt in order here. I bought the chocolate and the
strawberry flavors as they were out of the "Natural" which I really wanted. I
want to be able to sprinkle this stuff on everything. I HATE fake strawberry
flavor but this stuff is not bad. I am having a smoothie right now and it is
like I'm cheating. It is actually GOOD! I put a container of berry yogurt, a
scoop of strawberry powder and some crushed ice in my smoothie maker and blended
it all up and it is really good. I think I have a nice breakfast here. And a
nice bedtime snack. It is refreshing and really yummy. I'm not sure why I bought
the chocolate stuff, maybe only because I was a chocoholic in my other life and
this will give me just a small reminder at times...I really don't know.
So if you can afford it, please get this stuff. You can get it at GNC and The
Vitamine Shoppe You won't be disappointed!
Debby in WI
244/225/130
Open RNY 8/6/03
best of luck, valencia.
lori h.
<A
HREF="http://www.heartcenteronline.com/The_Blood_Test_Center.html?WT.srch=1"
ck here: Blood Test and Bloodwork Center</A
Hope this helps!
Danielle M.
RNY 3/31/03
BMI 57
361/255/135
Dr S Merola
Queens, NY
Peace Out :o)
yippee!! so great that you're home, deb k. you're a trooper,
continue to hang in there.
lori h.
hi christy & welcome. do lots of researching, meet post-ops & we'll
also follow your journey, if you like. today, i was on the phone w/
my old insurance comp & they were surprised i was ever approved, my
response was that God was good & merciful & He listened to my heart
& rescued me from the MO.
lori h.
15 grateful months out
YAAAAAAAAAAY HI DEB
Welcome back girl so glad to see that you are doing ok. WOW you was in the
hospital only what a day or so and now you are home already and on soft foods
well all I can say is wow. I and a few others are right behind ya. I go in on
8/25/03 and I can only pray that I am able to feel good enough to type a few
word of encouragement for the group. I know you are happy to be on the losing
side of life now:)
God Bless You ... you little loser :) LOL
Lori Anne
pre-op Lap RNY
8/25/03
I Everyone.I was sent home to day.Not feeling to bad.I havn't been
sick yet Thank God.I'm hanging in there.When I'm feeling better
I 'll come back on and talk some more.God Bless and Thanks for all
the Prayers that help me through that Big Day.I'm finally on the
losing side and glad to be home.Even though it's only been yesterday
at 1p.m. when I had my surgery.Talk Later debkroll a friend of
Iowa,surgery Aug.18,2003.Wt# 352.8/357.6/180.Yes I gain a little
with all the fuilds I was on.I was sent home on soft food.I was
surprized of this.
Thanks for letting me in this group. I am considering the by-pass
surgery and have heard good and bad things about it. I guess its like
that with all surgeries. I have been overweight all my life. I have
tried all diets, all meds and even binge/purge (that only hurt..ha) I
am so miserable with myself and I constantly think about being thin.
I am happy with myself as a person but the outside definately needs
much work. I am a Christian and I love the person God made me, I just
hate what I have done to myself over the years. I done the BMI cal.
and it rated me at 39.5%. Can someone please give me some advice or
just a boost!! Thanks once again for allowing me to join. It's very
encouraging...Christy
I think the extra iron and B-12 would help. As far as
the thinning hair, it happens about this time and you
might try Nioxin shampoo-some people swear by it.
Dear Todd or Vicki (you didn't sign your name so I don't know who I'm
answering)...
What you eat is dependent upon how far out you are from surgery. Please
tell us what type of surgery you had and when, then maybe we can answer you
better.
live each day like it's your last... love like you've never been hurt...
Deb in Hazlet, NJ
"Debbie Dancer"
distal rny
September 3, 2002
386/235/160
BMI 60/34.7/24
-151
-69.5"
Angel to Bill (8/14/03), Debbie (waiting for a date) Ilene, Roy, and Ro
Sorry to hear about the situation with your son. Number one piece
of advice: DON'T PANIC!!! This is not good for your son to see you
panic plus it doesn't look good in the eyes of the courts and/or
counselors involved in the case. Stability is the most important
thing for your son. Do you have a lawyer? If so you should
obviously talk to your lawyer right away. Second, it would probably
help if you have statements from teachers at your son's school and
other objective and respectable people that can say how responsible
you are as a mother and how well your son is doing under your care.
Keep us posted and good luck.
Anna
ok, I need some *quick help* here.
As you know, Blake has ADHD and has been on medication and going to
a Christian school since kindergarten because of the much smaller
class size (5th grade last year just had 5 students!). Having ADHD
makes Blake require routines, structure, familarity, and discipline.
To make a long story shorter, his father is taking me back to
court tomorrow to get "increased overnight visitation". He lives 45
minutes away in another county. His father's ultimate goal is to get
primary physical custody of Blake. He told me when Blake is 12 he
can decide where he wants to live. With Mom, it's homework, get up
early for school, no TV until homework, bath, (healthy) dinner is
done, go to bed early etc. (routine is boring and familiarity breeds
contempt (these are true I've discovered). With his father, he has
no set bedtime, gets up when he chooses, eats what he chooses,
playstation, Fire Station, Fire Trucks, and Dalmatians. Where would
you rather live??? I'd take the dalmatians any day to!
I just learned at 5pm that his father subpoena'ed Blake to
appear in court tomorrow. I am assuming it's to tell the court where
he would like to live. I was expecting this in 3 years when he turns
12, not now!! He is just 9 years old. I think (lets pray the court
agrees) that 9 years old, coupled with the symptoms of ADHD, it's
definitely NOT in Blake's best interest to go live with his father.
Besides the fact that I am his mother, have bathed him, cared for
him, fed him, clothed him, paid tuition for the Christian school
since he was born, I AM NOT GIVING MY BABY AWAY TO ANYONE!!!!!!! His
father left us. I didn't leave his father. Now, that he can wipe his
own tail and feed himself (not to mention that I remarry and have a
loving, wonderful supportive husband who is a full-time father to
Blake), his Dad wants to be a dad again and wants him back.
His father doesn't think he needs the Christian school, doesn't
want to pay for his 1/2 of tuition like he's been court ordered not
once , but twice.
I need some angles to take with me to court, just in case my
attorney isn't "hip" to this stuff.
HELP ME!!!
I need advice, ideas, input etc....
please please please email me directly @
angel_of_mercy_911@... in case I don't get to read replies!
Sheila
Hello greeneyes - how long ago did you have surg ? How much have you lost ?
Are you close to your goal weight ? I have noticed now that I am close to my
goal weight is not coming off as easy so I have really started exercising a
lot more however I feel muscle gain but this is ok because I look better as
I firm up. I also did not get a lot of direction on nutrition from my doctor
he told me I would be the best judge and to make smart choices as far as
food value goes. This is what I have done and I feel good. I drink my water
and take vitamins and listen to my bodys needs. If I can help just let me
know.
Robin O - Calif
211-135-???
Dec 5 2002
Hi all i am so glad to hear that i am not the only one waiting around! i am so
bad at waiting. actually i think i am moving rather well through this thing and
my problem is i cant sleep for thinking about this all the time, all day and all
night i am just so afraid that i wont get approved by the Ohio Medicaid system.
i had a friend and my father in law that have already had theirs paid by
Medicaid. my friend had less wrong with her and my FIL had more wrong with him
so i am somewhere in the middle. it took me 3 times to find a Dr that was still
taking the Medicaid, and then i had to wait till Aug 6th for the seminar as they
wont schedule you for a consult with the Dr till you go. then i was lucky that
they were scheduling appts that evening and i got one 8 days later. that was
last Thursday. i went to that and she asked a bunch of questions they measured
me all over and looked over my history and then said that i was an excellent
candidate for surgery. So then she says that the lady
that does all the insurance stuff is on vacation till aug 26 so i hope that she
has all my stuff done and sent in by the end of the first week of sept! so i
guess i am moving faster then a lot of people but the denial is what i am afraid
of. nothing im my life is ever easy and i figure this wont be either lol so i
have already begun to work on my appeal. even if i dont need it, it gives me
something to do i guess. i just wish i could think of something else! i go about
my day as usual and all but it is always there! well thanks for listening!
Tracey
I received my packet almost 3wks ago, all I needed to do was fill the
darn thing out and send it back to the dr. office. then the dr will
determine if i'm a good candidate for the surgery. so, now i wait
for my consult and go from there. and did i mention...that i'm
nervous!!!
Ohh i remember that article also, but i dont recall where i read
it. I hope someone can remember.
Lori - MI
Open RnY 8/1/03
hey folks, @ the bookstore, i stumbled upon a saying by winston
churchill:
"once in a while, you will stumble upon the truth but most of us
manage to pick ourselves up & hurry along as if nothing had happened".
lori h.
My surgeon says get your protein first also. They want us to eat
between 70 and 80 grms a day then any carbs we can fit it. There is
a difference between veggie and fruit carbs and the pasta/bread
carbs. My surgeon perfers no pasta/bread carbs after surgery.
Lori - MI
Open RnY 8/1/03
Michelle thanks for bringing me up to date. I do understand the Dad thing
my Dad passed away in Jan 1988 and I miss him alot he was my night and
shining Armor so after he was gone I decided my husband would be my hero. It
sounds to me right now you dont have the husband support like you should so
try and be patience if the love is there. I know exactly where your at I
just went to MG MT
a couple Tuesday ago we had a great time. that area just grows and grows. We
are in Bass Lake just above Fresno and below Yosemite National Park. We have
been here 24 years we where born and raised in the Seal Beach area. Smile
and enjoy the day.
Robin O- Calif
211-135-???
Dec 5 2002
before anything: how far out are ya?
can you find another doc that suits your needs? does your insurance
cover nutritionists? any in-person support meetings, a lot of the
time they'll be a nutritionist present.
lori h.
hi marybeth, the narrowing of the stoma is fixed through endoscopies,
it's not preventable & from what a couple of friends tell me, it's not
a big deal.
any other pre-surgery ?s
lori h.
hmmm, have you had labs done? & way to go on the w l, ms. century
club.
lori h.
woohoo heidi! so thrilled for ya, finally!
lori h.
Dear Tracy,
You are probably carrying too much weight on your mid-section. My surgeon
adamently stressed no bending, stretching, pulling, pushing or lifting
anything greater than five lbs. for the first six weeks. Seems like you're
carrying around a lot heavier than that and you can create a hernia. Have
yourself checked out...
live each day like it's your last... love like you've never been hurt...
Deb in Hazlet, NJ
"Debbie Dancer"
distal rny
September 3, 2002
386/235/160
BMI 60/34.7/24
-151
-69.5"
Angel to Bill (8/14/03), Debbie (waiting for a date) Ilene, Roy, and Ro
I have a big problem. I have received no help after surgery from my
doctor. I have no idea what I am supposed to be eating or
supplements to take. I hear alot about protein and carbs, but have
no idea how much. I pretty much eat whatever I want and hope for the
best. Please, Please, Please help me. I have stopped losing weight
and need to get back on track. Thanks to all of you who read my
ramble!!
Lizanne,
I live in Southern Maryland, St Mary's County... I will be having my
operation at Washington Adventist supposedly on September 5th... Still
holding my breath. Dr. Fullum from Providence Hospital. He now has two
offices Providence Hospital and Washington Adventist Hospital.
Denise
Denise,
I live on Kent Island, which is where the Bay Bridge drops you off on
the eastern shore. I work in Baltimore, so I cover a lot of area. I
am having the surgery at Johns Hopkins by Dr Thomas Magnuson. What
about you?
Lizanne
Hi there
First off I gotta tell you all that you do a tremendous job of
information, support and encouragement. Never have I seen so many
posts, lol.
Secondly, one of my co-workers who had the rue-n-y done 5 weeks ago
just found out she has a stricture. Can some one please tell me what
this is if it is preventable and well ok, anything.
My surgery is 8 days from now and am starting to have jitters... not
to bad yet, taking the AA aproach, one day at at time and trying not
to let the big picture overwhelm me.
Well thanks for being such a great group.
Marybeth
Hey gang...
Here I am 4 months post op and I literally have to force myself to eat otherwise
i forget or I seem to not need anything...plus I am so tired (Yes I take
vitamins everyday) and my hair is thinning so badly...HELP!!!
Jana
388/288.5 (99.5lbs gone forver)
I have the next two days off from work yeahhhhhyyy! Not only that but
I just got off the phone with Blue Choice and I have been approved
for the surgery! After I got off the phone I called my surgeon's
office!!! They said that they have 10 people to schedule surgury for
and the opperating room is all booked up! So it could be anywhere
from Sept. to Dec. when I get it done! She has to call weekly to see
what is open. If I cant get in between them it will be next year.
That seems soooo far away! When I got off the phone with her the
offical letter came from Blue Choice! Pretty soon I will be on the
loosing side with all of you!!!
Hi Jan
I'm having the surgery the day after my 44th bday which is on Sept. 14 and
surgery on 15th. Yes I definately feel like you do. My family has planned a
wonderful dinner for me and I will eat my last piece of real bday cake. Luckily
my surgeon doesn't require any fasting or cleansing. I just can't have anything
to eat or drink after midnight is all
Debbie
Northern Minnesota
Pre Op RNY 9/15/03
Current weight 275
jan kisner <kodiaks_mom@...
Whoever posted that they had their surgery on their birthday, i had the same
idea, i thought the same as you, what a wonderful way to start your new life, on
the anniversary of your birth. I am currently waiitng for insurance to approve
but I hoping to have the surgery done on October 1st, which is the day before my
39th birthday. My surgeon does not surgery on Thursday so I will settle for the
last day of my 38th year, being the end of some old and not so good habits.
Wish me luck! And let me add that I read my mail every day and am getting alot
of excellent information from all of it. Good luck and Congratulations to
EVERYONE! I CAN'T WAIT TO BECOME A LOSER!!!!!
jJan, in Iowa
Lizanne,
I am also from Maryland.. Where are you located and who is your doctor?
Denise R.
Cynthia,
It looks like you must be doing real well, since your first concern
is your scar. My brother bought mederma for his scar but his plastic
surgeon told him to just use vaseline or a heavy lotion at least 3
times a day, that it worked just as well. I can't tell you if it
works or not, because his scar is too new, but if the plastic surgeon
recommended it, I'd listen. The mederma was $29.00. Of course,
maybe she's just setting him up for another surgery to get rid of the
scar, an ulterior motive. (LOL)
Lizanne
Maryland
Dear Lizanne (and anyone else who needs this),
Here's the blood test information for follow up.
It is recommended that for the first year post-op that you have your blood
tested every three (3) months. After the first year then it is every six (6)
months. Just to let you that this testing requires about 6 or 7 tubes of
blood so don't freak out when they line them all up !!!
Also make sure the lab knows the proper handling of the specimens, one test
requires that the blood be kept from light and several require special
tubes....just politely ask the lab to look up all the requirements for each
test.
You should always get a copy of your blood tests and compare the results for
trends. For instance if your lab values are in the "normal" range but they
are consistantly getting lower each time you get them done, you want to do
something about it before they fall into the "abnormal" range.
Here is the list: Comprehensive Metabolic Profile Lipid Profile ALT
(SPGT)GGTLDH Phosphorous - inorganic Uric acid Hemogram with platlets B-12 &
Folate Iron, TIBC, % Sat Vitamin A & D (25-hydroxy) Thyroid panel (T3U, T4,
FTI, TSH)Zinc Magnesium Ferritin
These are the ICD-9 Diagnosis Codes needed for insurance reimbursement
579.3 - post-surgical malabsorbption; 269.2 - hypovitaminosis; 244.9
hypothryoidism
live each day like it's your last... love like you've never been hurt...
Deb in Hazlet, NJ
"Debbie Dancer"
distal rny
September 3, 2002
386/235/160
BMI 60/34.7/24
-151
-69.5"
Angel to Bill (8/14/03), Debbie (waiting for a date) Ilene, Roy, and Ro
Whoever posted that they had their surgery on their birthday, i had the same
idea, i thought the same as you, what a wonderful way to start your new life, on
the anniversary of your birth. I am currently waiitng for insurance to approve
but I hoping to have the surgery done on October 1st, which is the day before my
39th birthday. My surgeon does not surgery on Thursday so I will settle for the
last day of my 38th year, being the end of some old and not so good habits.
Wish me luck! And let me add that I read my mail every day and am getting alot
of excellent information from all of it. Good luck and Congratulations to
EVERYONE! I CAN'T WAIT TO BECOME A LOSER!!!!!
jJan, in Iowa
Deb,
Would you please post the blood work and vitamin tests that you
mentioned in your post? I want to be prepared because my PCP has had
only 3 patients who have had gastric bypass and he may not know what
things ned to be monitored after the surgery. If I can help him in
any way, I want to.
Thanx,
Lizanne
forever pre-op
and Ro
definitely notify your surgeon's office. i have a somewhat sedentary
job & took 6 weeks off b/c i didn't want to risk a hernia.
lori h.
15 grateful months out
Lap RNY
i feel for you all. i read somewhere about the hibernation mode vs
hunting mode, where your system tries to protect itself after the
shock of surgery. anyone know where this info was posted?
sending healing & energizing wishes MI lori, gina, kimberly, michelle
& all other "earlies".
lori h.
Dear Joyce,
Hi. I didn't have to have the filter, but several of my friends did. It's
called a Greenfield Filter (not greenwich) and it's put in near your groin
to prevent blood clots from passing through and causing problems. There are
two types that I know of. One is inserted temporarily, just to get you
through the surgery, the other one is left in for life. In either case, it
will allow you to have the surgery that you want. The surgery is done as
outpatient and you have to stay still (only climbing stairs once a day) and
rest for the 24 hours immediately following when they put the filter in.
You'll never even know it's there and it will save you from those pesky
blood clots. If you want to learn more about it, type Greenfield Filter
into your browser bar and it will take you to the manufacturer's site. Good
luck.
live each day like it's your last... love like you've never been hurt...
Deb in Hazlet, NJ
"Debbie Dancer"
distal rny
September 3, 2002
386/235/160
BMI 60/34.7/24
-151
-69.5"
Angel to Bill (8/14/03), Debbie (waiting for a date) Ilene, Roy, and Ro
Thank you for your info.
Joyce
"zoes.mom" <zoes.mom@...
Dear Joyce,
Hi. I didn't have to have the filter, but several of my friends did. It's
called a Greenfield Filter (not greenwich) and it's put in near your groin
to prevent blood clots from passing through and causing problems. There are
two types that I know of. One is inserted temporarily, just to get you
through the surgery, the other one is left in for life. In either case, it
will allow you to have the surgery that you want. The surgery is done as
outpatient and you have to stay still (only climbing stairs once a day) and
rest for the 24 hours immediately following when they put the filter in.
You'll never even know it's there and it will save you from those pesky
blood clots. If you want to learn more about it, type Greenfield Filter
into your browser bar and it will take you to the manufacturer's site. Good
luck.
live each day like it's your last... love like you've never been hurt...
Deb in Hazlet, NJ
"Debbie Dancer"
distal rny
September 3, 2002
386/235/160
BMI 60/34.7/24
-151
-69.5"
Angel to Bill (8/14/03), Debbie (waiting for a date) Ilene, Roy, and Ro
In a message dated 8/20/2003 3:37:46 AM Central Standard Time,
muttie@... writes:
Very good question.
what is the limit of carbohydrates a person should have per day? Can
you help me?
Please see the attached file for details.
Better safe than sorry.....see the surgeon if it isn't gone by morning. Good
Luck.
Danielle M.
Lap RNY 3/31/03
BMI 57
361/256/135
Dr.S.Merola
Queens, NY
Peace Out :o)
Hi everyone..
I'm about 20 days post op, and I attempted to go back to work on
Monday of this week. I work in a prison, so I carry keys, radio, and
handcuffs, etc. around my mid-section. The day I went back, I tried
to sit as much as possible through out the day, but I've had horrible
back, and stomach/chest area(just under my ribcage) pain since then.
I am one of the lucky ones, and I hadn't had pain, or any nausea, or
bad side effects from the surgery at all... now all the sudden this
happens and I'm wondering, if anyone has experienced this onset of
pain that late in the recovery process or if perhaps anyone knows
what the symptoms of a hernia feel like?
Please give me your opinions.. could this just be over doing it by
trying to go back to work that fast.. or do you think I should go see
the surgeon about this?
Thanks for any advice :)
Tracy R.
239/210/140
Colorado
Lap RNY on 07/30/2003
Hi all,
I'ld like to introduce myself also. I'm Tammy and hope to be hearing from
my insurance company in the next two weeks that I have the approval for
surgery. I have a friend here locally that is a year post op and has done
so well. Watching her through the process is what really got me going to
pursue this option for myself. I've been tuning in to your messages for the
last couple of nights and am so glad to see all the info and feedback you
give each other. As I read earlier this evening, waiting is really hard and
I almost have to push it from my mind, otherwise I just want to sit at home
and wait by the mailbox. Hopefully, once approved, I can schedule the
surgery for September. Looking forward to getting to know you all better.
Tammy
Pre-RNY/259
Hello and welcome. I am 2.5 weeks post op and I am using mederma.
It is a clear cream you put on 3 times a day after your incision has
healed. I have no idea if it will help, but my surgeon recommended
it. Look forward to hearing more about your journey.
Lori
Open RnY 8/1/03
Lori's typical day
Breakfast - 8oz skim milk with protein powder
Lunch - 4 oz of cream soup strained (cream of potato or bean)
Dinner - 8oz skim milk with protein powder
Snack during the day and evening one of the following - 8 oz OJ, 8
oz V8, 3 oz yogurt, 3 oz applesauce I have also added the protein
carbs fat to each item.
Protein Carbs Fat
OJ 8oz 2 26 0
V8 8 oz 2 10 0
Milk 8oz 9 13 0
Yogurt 3 oz 4 8.5 0
Soup Potato 4oz 6.5 10 3
Soup Bean 4 oz 8 15 2
Applesauce 4 oz 0 13 0
Protein 1oz 20 6 0
So during a normal day I get around 600 calories, 70grms protein, 70
grms carbs, 2 grms fat. Not the perfect ratio but for the selection
of items I do my best.
Thanks for asking us to do this. It made me take the time to think
about what I am putting in my mouth and what total carb, protein I
am taking in. Now i need to work more on the water.
Lori
Open RnY 8/1/03
Hello,
I would like to introduce myself My name is Cynthia Bronson and I am new to
the group. I look forward to sharing this new beginning with others and am so
happy to know that I am not the only one who is heading on the same journey
that I am. Tomorrow I will be a week post op and the next day I go see my
surgeon and get to have the staples and drain removed ....I cant wait. I have a
question for everyone I was wondering what if anything can help minimize the
scarring from the surgery? Well I look forward to hearing from everyone and am
so
excighted and thankful to find a support group.
Take Care,
Cynthia Bronson
I have been reading the posts, but frankly have been too tired, sad,
scared, or hurting to get up the energy to post. I had this surgery
at my doctor's strong (!!!)suggestion, hoping to prevent being less
mobile, or losing my right leg... but it never sounded like something
I wanted to do, and I had to force myself to do it.
I had lost some weight five years ago, when I was diagnosed with
diabetes, and changed my lifestyle to be much more active, regularly
attended a gym, and maintained most of the weight I had lost for
about five years, and hoped that would be "enough", but it just
wasn't, if I want to feel really well, and don't want to be in a
wheelchair, which was looming in my future.
I learned everything I could, gritted my teeth, we refinanced the
house (since the insurance coverage we had refused to cover me) and
found the best doctor in the area as far as we could tell: Dr.
Milton Owens, and I would definitely recommend him, especially if you
need "open" like I did... and I went for it.
I've had very depressed moments, feel like I failed by needing this
surgery - and I really, truly tried so hard - and was very upset when
I had a complication just over a week out and had to go back in the
hospital and be opened up again to fix a bowel obstruction, and
recover again. I've had a lot of strange aches and pains, trouble
sleeping, fear of taking capsules because I had the impression that
started my bowel obstruction (which is not reasonable). It helps to
hear that others are going through similiar moments.
Thank you all for being there.
B*B,
Ysabeau
353 top lost to 278 pre-op/257/150 goal
Open RnY 7/22/03 & gall bladder removal
(bowel obstruction 8/2/03 reoperation)
age 49 diabetic
Lori, I'll keep you in my thoughts. Good luck with everything.
Take Care,
Julie
Open RYN 4-7-03
351/281/???
Reminder Reminder from the Calendar of Gastric_Bypass_Family
Lap Band Support Group
Wednesday August 20, 2003
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
This event repeats on the third Wednesday of every month.
Event Location: Mercy Hospital 6 floor
Notes:
Meetings are the 3rd Wednesday of the month
The 1st annual Walk for Obesity is going to be on September 20th at
Tropical Park. If anyone is interested in attending please let me
know. My group Miami WLS will all be walking and the more the
merrier. The walk is 1 mile long but if you cant walk the mile you
can do registration, or lots of other things.
Hope to see lots of us there
Vanessa
I am really curious as to what types of food we are eating - weather you are
post-op a week or years will you share a typical meal that you enjoy? Recipes
would be a great option:
Stasia's Typical Day - 3 1/2 weeks post-op
Breakfast - 1/4 of a scrambled egg
Lunch - 100 cc of Tomato Soup
100 cc of Jell-O
Supper - 1/4 of a scrambled egg
Not a whole lot of variety but it seems to stay down for the most part.
Surgeon? Any help? lol... Stop joshing me Lori! The only help he offers, is
an elevation in my blood pressure.. Maybe he helps up my stress level..
No, he's no help.. At this point, I don't even want to see him.. I cancelled
my last appointment.. I'm on edge.. I'm supposed to go in to see him
Thursday, but hell, I don't even want to go.. He does nothing.. I'm telling you,
I
feel like a joke.. One big, fat joke to him! And I'm not alone.. There are
others feeling the same way that I've met along the way. Maybe I'm just taking
everything personal, because I feel so lousy.. I mean, maybe it has nothing to
do
with him at all, but I highly doubt that.. When you feel like the doc doesn't
care, you start to not care too.. It's contagious..
I will try the non-flavored protein and add it to my broth.. But I'm really
getting tired of that broth.. I'm telling you.. A person can only eat, well
drink, so much of that stuff before they say what's the use? And physically,
some days I'm not even hungry at all, I'm just weak.. And tired.. And moody..
It's a never ending roll of emotions on this twisted, hell hole of a coaster
ride.. It's scary, even for me... I feel sorry for the others around me.. In
fact,
most of the time, I'd rather much be alone.. And I agree I need some
physical support, but what surgeon or facility wants to bother with me when I'm
not
even their patient? Well, I guess I can keep that possibility open..
So you have three boys??? I bet you have your hands full.. But those boys
alone, are three reasons to make a positive change in your life.. You want to be
around long for them.. See them grow up, and proceed with their lives.. I know
I only have one, and she's a handful! Very active, and healthy.. She's a
beautiful child, and hopefully, she'll never repeat my mistakes in life.. (with
food).. lol.. Hopefully..
Yeah, you're on liquids? I was doing okay on liquids until they advanced me..
Then, I wasn't doing so good.. The only thing you can do, is wait and see
what happens.. And I was thinking about the possibility of a "stoma
restriction." Could very well be.. Lori, thanks.. You've been great.. And hey, I
can't
imagine too many others having the same complications as me, with all the good
things I hear.. You'll probably be another success story come true.. So hold
your head up and keep the faith.. Afterall, we are women.. lol.. 100% WOMAN AND
100% PROUD.. Right? lol.. Later.
Kimberly Greer
Lori;
I've received this e-mail.. Thank you.. And you're right! No peaches and
cream here! I just think that going into this, the facilities and surgeons
highlight all the good, and kind of underplay the complications and the more
negative
outcomes of this type of surgery.. I'm a realist.. I'd rather much had them
tell me straight out the bad first.. And then proceed to tell me about the
benefits.. If I would have ever imagined that I would feel like this day after
day, I would have taken back the day I went in for surgery.. And I studied this
procedure for 3 years, but I just thought some how that I'd be okay.. I mean
you don't hear so much bad when researching it.. You only hear a good portion
of the miraculous success stories.. How it's changed others lives for the
better.. How it gave them a second chance at living.. You don't hear, what I'm
living, physically and emotionally.. I just thought at 26 years old, and not as
many co-morbidities as others, that I'd be happier after the surgery opposed to
how I was before the surgery.. I knew my life would change, but I never
realized that the change would be so devastating.. Thanks again.. It feels good
to
be relate with others out there going through similiar situations.. Now I know,
it's not only in my head..
Kimberly Greer
has anyone in the group had the open duodenal switch procedure. and
can help me out with some info
Thanks for the response! First of all, I want you to know any advice you give
here is well appreciated and that we all need as much support as we can get,
so that we may be better able to give back some of that good advice later! But
this is how it is.. I'm now giving you the whole scoop on my ordeal!
No, I had the surgery "open," not laprascopically.. I was cut from my bra
line down to my belly button. I also had my gallbladder removed at the same
time.. I had 2 drainage tubes, one on each side that have also had difficulty
healing up thoroughly. I have bursted open at the bend of my waist just a tiny
bit,
enough to have got infection, hoping that cleaning it with antiseptic will
help some... And hoping that it will connect back again.. (the skin). I can
keep water and some broth down okay.. SF popsicles help also.. I can also
tolerate my vitamins and calcium pretty good.. But as far as any food goes, well
I
can eat a tiny amount very slowly and I'm throwing up and on the toilet.. I have
noticed some blood in my bowel movements.. I don't want to alarm anyone or
cause myself more grief and discomfort, but I don't think that this is good..
I've already gave up on eating meals.. Nothing stays down, so why bother? I've
tried all what the surgeon suggested.. Cottage cheese, pureed and soft, lean
meats, eggs, cream soups (some I can tolerate, others I can't) and mashed
potatoes, bland. Even with those, I'm deathly ill.. Very sick a good portion of
the
time.. I know I was okay with SF jello and puddings, broth, and Choice DM,
but there's only so much you can get of that, before you're completely sick of
it! It's been a month already.. And my weight loss is now slowing as well.. And
it doesn't make sense either because I'm not even eating.. I do try to get in
my WATER though, due to the fear of dehydration.. I know my lips are cracking
and I'm very pale in color, but I did get my first period this year! I guess
that's good news.... It's very discouraging when you feel like I do.. I try
to look down the road, and past this, but it's very difficult.. And if it's
quite normal to experience depression this early on, I'm right on target! I just
want to have energy and be able to function.. I don't care about "good food."
I care about living.. And it's difficult when you're not getting adequate
nutrition into your body. And you're right also, about suffering silently.. I
don't want to be re-opened.. I don't want any more pain to come my way or
distress.. And honestly, I feel like the doc doesn't care, and either does his
staff..
We're just a money market for his slaughter house.. I shouldn't say that, but
that's the way they make you feel.. He just tells me, "It'll get better," and
sends me on my way after waiting 2 and a half hours in his waiting room with
over a dozen other patients.. How can I tell him how I really feel if he
doesn't even take concern in my infection, and breathing complications, or my
constant nausea.. Anyway, he's overbooked.. Now he's saying the surgery's going
to
be "a thing of the past." The one he just performed on me.. He's into the
newest thing, LAPBANDS.. What a hot market! How much money are they making off
of
us??? I'm sorry but I can't help but imagine.. All he tells me is that I'm a
beautiful girl, and how good I'm going to look when I drop the weight.. How
about how good I'm going to feel??? How come you never hear that??? I tell him I
can't eat, for the fear of getting sick.. He doesn't care.. And I'm getting to
that point, where either do I. I wonder if it's even going to matter how
beautiful I'm going to be later, if I don't make it through.. I wonder about how
pretty my corpse will be.. Maybe I'm not thinking rational here, but how
rational can you be???
Kimberly Greer
It is heartwarming to know that it's all normal! However, my marital
stuff was happening before the surgery, so in a way, that's normal,
too, it's just a shame. I'll have to continue to take care of myself
because I am the best at it anyway! I spoke to the coordinator at
the doctors office and she told me I could drive today if I wanted
to. I am exactly one week out. Pretty cool! I think I'll go to
Walmart and see what kind of bucket o'protein they have. I just wish
it all tasted better. It doesnt seem like it should be that hard.
Then again, by the taste of some of this stuff, maybe it really is
that hard! Anyway, I'll be back and forth on here today. Thank you
for taking your time to explain so many things. It is so nice to
have people who have been there, done that, to explain to us. I hope
that one day I'll have the experience enough to be able to share as
well. I'm going to go sip my protein and water now and then head out
for my first outing! Take care,
Michelle Hamburger 41 on 8/7/03
Stevenson Ranch, CA ( Near Valencia, Magic Mountain)
Lap RNY 8/12/03
I dream all the time. Thanks for the encouragement.
Shannon in WA
Hi Debbie,
It is great to see you on here, I have not seen any familia names on here. I
have not posted in several months. I was wondering how everyone is getting
along and there was no one that I recoginized. Can you give me the low down.
Mary A. B.
LAP RNY 3/22/03
386/315
Hey girls,
You are all so right on schedule it's scary. The only thing that worries
me, Kimberly, is the problem you're having holding down fluids and food.
Have you spoken to your surgeon about this? I know someone whose stoma
healed too quickly and got too small. She had to have an endoscopy to
stretch it again and then she was good as gold. You don't want this to go
on to long sweetie. Get checked. Dehydration and malnutrition set in way
too quickly to risk it.
As for the lack of energy and depression, also right on schedule. It's due
to having major surgery. It's actually got a name (hibernation syndrome)
where you don't want to/feel able to go anywhere or do anything. Are you
taking vitamins (especially b-12) yet? This will help. It will also pass
in time (perhaps a week or two).
For the pain you're experiencing, also normal. I'm assuming you've all had
the surgery laparascopically. If that's the case, practically ALL of the
work is done through the main incision on the left and that is where they
use the rib spreaders. According to friends of mine that had the surgery,
that also decreased in about two to three weeks. Believe me, everything
you're going through is perfectly normal and will pass. But Kimberly,
please be sure to run this past your surgeon. Don't suffer silently at
home. This is something that can be fixed and should be. Don't get blown
off by being told that it will pass. If you're having trouble holding down
fluids, it's NOT normal and should be looked into.
Good luck girls!
live each day like it's your last... love like you've never been hurt...
Deb in Hazlet, NJ
"Debbie Dancer"
distal rny
September 3, 2002
386/235/160
BMI 60/34.7/24
-151
-69.5"
Angel to Bill (8/14/03), Debbie (waiting for a date) Ilene, Roy, and Ro
Shannon in Wa,
I'm so sorry for you. Here you are all set for the operation, then
nothing. I thought I had it bad, at least I didn't think 'well.
finally a date I can look forward to'. Just think, by Christmas
you'll be on your way. You can have pictures taken so that next year
you can compare. I know, my brother had the operation alost a year
ago. He's lost 205 lbs, now weighs 195 lbs (he lost more than he
weighs now) and his pictures from last summer look so weird. None of
us remember him being that heavy.
By next summer---think bikinis
Lizanne
pre-op forever
Hey you two,
Nice when you're going through the same things at the same time, huh? As
for protein drinks, the powdered shakes break down in potency if you don't
get them in within a half hour. The other ones, like Atkins (20 grams of
protein) or Isopure Zero Carbs (50 grams of protein) last longer, but our
bodies don't absorb more than the 30 grams of protein every couple of hours
anyway. The good thing about the Isopure is that this protein does not
break down, so you can put them away and have more later when your body can
absorb more again.
As for the emotional side of things, after the MAJOR surgery, your hormones
are in an uproar and that is why you cry at commercials, etc. Also, it's
normal to have the "what did I do to myself" stuff going on. The good news
is that it will all pass. Seems to me you're right on schedule.
Keep up the good work.
live each day like it's your last... love like you've never been hurt...
Deb in Hazlet, NJ
"Debbie Dancer"
distal rny
September 3, 2002
386/235/160
BMI 60/34.7/24
-151
-69.5"
Angel to Bill (8/14/03), Debbie (waiting for a date) Ilene, Roy, and Ro
lori h,
It's good to hear that others had the same problem, although it seems
it may never happen. As to other support systems, there are no
others to do the open RnY, and the only support group with live
people is sponsored by Hopkins, where this doctor is a member. I
don't think he's shirking his responsibilities, I just think he's not
aware that it takes so long. When I had my appointment with him, he
told me it would take 2-3 months for the surgery, I don't think he
knows its more like 6-7 months. His voice mail for the bypass
patients maintained by his assistant, says to leave your name and
number, for new patients, and someone will get back to them in about
four weeks to set up an initial appointment 6 months from now.
I guess there is just too much work for everyone with the popularity
of this operation. I shouldn't complain because when I think about,
there really isn't anything that can be done about it. I should be
glad that I'm going to get this operation. 2 years ago I wasn't even
aware that some day I might be able to weigh a normal amount ever
again. I should look on the bright side.
Speaking of that-----does anyone know how Deb Kroll of Iowa-SD, is
doing? Does anyone keep in touch with her personally? She's such a
sweet heart.
Lizanne
pre-op forever
Kimberly,
Give it some time, it has only been a month. You will get better everyday
and every now and then you will have a few setbacks. You have setbacks in
normal life, it is something that we just have to deal with one day at a time.
Just give it some time and think positive, positive, positive. Good luck!!
Mary A. B.
LAP RNY 3/22/03
386/315
Kimmie,
You are doing great!!! I am only 5mo and you have lost twice as much as I
have. I have only lost 71 pounds. If I ever get out of this wheelchair and
beable to move around I might have a little more success. Keep up the great
job!!!
Mary A. B.
Lap RNY/3/22
386/315
Thanks Robin,
I am 5'4" and so you are feeling good at 135#? I was thinking about
making that my goal weight, but would be happy at 150 also. Most of
my high school days i was between 135 and 155. I thought i was fat
in those days, but looking back now, i wish i looked like that
again...lol ohh yeah.. in a year i will, or close. I am a bit hung
up on the loose skin, but i am going back to the gym when the Dr
gives me the ok. And if i have the skin problem, I will cross that
bridge when I get to it. One day at a time. I think i might invest
in some relaxation tapes or just ask my surgeon for some ambien for
a bit. I am going back to work at 3 weeks post-op and i need my
rest or i will not make it. Thanks for your postive message! Smile
Good Day Everyone - Michelle I read your post and wanted to say hang in
there girl and lets try and put some order here first of all very soon you
can have some sloppy Joe if you want you will soon be able to enjoy food
again however your desire for food will be very little we know longer need
alot of food.
Drink your water watch your nutrition and listen to your body. And Smile
everything will be great you have made a decession that will make everything
better. Your husband has his own issues right now ne patience with each
other. Did your Dad move or pass away ? You mentioned you missed him ?
Where is Stevenson Ranch ? And Now this sleep thing you have to have your
rest this is a must
Maybe walking in the evening might help try and relax at night think of the
ocean and close your eyes.
Your starting weight was very close to my starting weight and I now weigh
135 # 's and feel wonderful
I am only 5'3 1/2 but for the first time in over 20 years everything fits
take this all easy girls Lori sounds like your going to be just fine as
well. One Day at a time ! Smile Smile when you do smile someone else will
to.
Robin O - Calif
211-135-???
Dec 5 2002
I understand completely about the not missing food. I fix things
for my children and could care less. I have to force myself to
drink my shakes and drink my water. I know we have to adjust and
give ourselves time, but it is hard when we had felt good before
doing this. I am a bit older than you, 37, but i was in great
health before surgery. I did this to keep myself healthy as i know
that caring around and extra 135 lbs was taking a toll on my health
even if I couldnt see the effects yet. I think we did the right
thing, we just need to figure out what is going on with you so you
can drink and not get sick, and eat and not get sick. I think the
fear of getting sick is keeping you from trying things. I dont
blame you, who wants to be sick, but you are going to kill yourself
slowly if you dont try to get something in your system. What about
the non-flavored protein. I found some at GNC. I have not tried
that yet, but if you can drink broth and can add that protein, that
will help you. What about your surgeon? Has he been any help at
all? What about finding someone new to go to. I know that my drs
helped many patients they didnt operate on. You need some physical
support to help you get back on track. I am still on liquids, so i
dont know what will happen when i try to add foods. Ohh I have
three boys :) 14, 11 and 8. I am bouncing around with topics, but
i imagine you can follow me just fine right?? We are woman :P:P. I
will keep you in my prayers and really you need to find a good Dr
that can help you resolve this. I know that many people get a
stricture in there stoma around 1 month out. Maybe that is the
problem. I am just guessing, but trying to give you ideas what
might be the problem. Let me know how you are doing ok? I am on
here as often as i can be.
Lori-MI
Open RnY 8/1/03
lizanne, i can relate to the impatience, actually i'm guilty in the
1st degree. are there any other docs in your area?
any in-person support groups, that way you can network, get ideas,
feedback, reassurance....
lori h.
Thanks g/f.. I thought it was something I said.. I know I haven't been quite
so positive lately, but it's just from my own personal experiences.. Started
to take offense, but you got me straight.. lol.. Later.
Kimberly Greer
hi perdida!! have you tried asbs.org? & great job on the wl!!!!
lori h.
Why have I been bounced from posting when I've always had good things
to say about the people from this network.. Sharing my story about
what's went wrong with me after the surgery, shouldn't be banned..
Perhaps, there are others out there going through the same thing..
Maybe they need someone to whom they can relate to.. And I think we
all need some support here.. Sometimes it seems that reality is too
much for some to bear.. Is it just me?
Kimberly Greer
yay!!! you go girl, time to celebrate!
lori h.
I have a friend who is looking for a surgeon in the Miami/Ft.
Lauderdale area that takes Medicaid.
Please let me know if you happen to know of anyone.
Thanks in advance,
~Zuly~
6 mos post-Op
120 lbs gone-4-ever
Kristin I had surg on Dec 5 th 2002 so about 8 1/2 months when did you first
give blood ?
Robin O - Calif
hi girl. as it was explained to me, the concept of bouncing may have
to do with a full email account. it definitely was not an intentional
thing, it was a cyber thing. there's about 200 members who are
"bouncing", could be cuz they haven't gotten around to check their
emails, or got a new email addy, who knows. way too much science!!
lori h.
That's great Kimmie! I'm glad to hear of your success.. Only 2 lbs. shy of
your goal.. CONGRATULATIONS! CLOSE ENOUGH.. But can I ask you something.. How
in the world, did you do it???? I am sick as a dog.. I can hardly keep fluids
in, and I barely eat, even what the doc suggests.. I don't want to come off
sounding like a whine tail, but I have had nothing but problems since surgery
last month.. Infection, breathing difficulties, dehydration, nausea.. Not to
mention depression.. I have no color.. I am so weak, my arms tire out before I
can
tie my hair back.. And I never leave home anymore.. for the fear of fainting
and getting sick.. Hell, I was more active before surgery! And I've lost
almost 40 lbs.. I was so positive before I went in for surgery... But now, I'm
so
down.. U have any tips for me??? I was 1 month post-op yesterday.. I need some
support here... And the doc sure isn't much help for me.. Is this normal? Did
you experience any of this before? Talk to me g/f....
Kimberly Greer
I agree Lori, that support groups post-op, are essential.. Support is what
keeps you strong, helps you get by, and helps maintain your focus... Sad but
true, there still isn't enough support with ours to help me get by..
Kimberly Greer
Yes, honey I had pains after surgery 1 week post-op.. They were higher up, on
my left side, under my breast... I didn't think it was normal either.. But
doc knows best.. Or does he???? THAT'S AN OPEN ENDED QUESTION... I still have
pains that come and go.. But nothing compares to the fatigue, nausea, and
depression I'm experiencing.. Wonder if anyone out there is feeling this too? Of
course, I have had some major complications that others haven't had, fortunately
for them.. Girl, I'm a realist! I'll tell you the way "it really is", rather
than the way, "it is supposed to be." I don't think EVERYONE out there has had
promising success.. I think some do encounter difficulties that others do
not.. I do hear often "miracle" stories.. I had to get off the network for a
little while because I couldn't bear listening to them anymore being as sick as
I
was.. But slowly, I'm getting just a tiny bit better, so don't lose hope..
Things will most likely get better.. Anyway, how much worse can they get???
Later.
Kimberly Greer
I was 1 month post-op yesterday.. Surgery was July 18, 2003...
Oh Lori! I'm just hoping that some of this passes.. I think this is a huge
CHANGE in our lives and we have to have time to adjust to it.. The only thing
is, I'm not really missing the food.. How do I explain this???? What I mean is I
need to eat something to keep me fueled, to keep me going, to help get some
nutrition in, even if it is a tiny bit.. And it seems like I'm having
difficulty doing even that.. See, I'm young.. 26 years old.. I thought I'd be
okay with
the surgery.. I've heard of others who have had difficulties but I just
thought it was because of their current health, but now I'm really starting to
wonder about the surgery itself.. Noone has answers.. Not even the surgeon..
It's
scaring me a little.. Sometimes I look at my daughter, and wonder how long
I'll be around for her.. I made the decision to go with surgery for a better
life, a more promising future, for my health.. And I'm sicker now than I was
before surgery.. Now I'm just wondering if I made the right decision. Yes, I've
lost weight.. But I can't even enjoy life, at all for the fear of getting sick..
I don't know.. Maybe it's just me.. I hope everything works out for all of us
later on down the road.. And thanks for asking.. I was bounced from posting at
the website.. I guess sharing REALITY is too much for others to bear.. Later.
Kimberly Greer
Yeah Popsicle brand is the best.. I can't hardly tell the difference between
SF and non-sugar-free from before.. They're actually pretty good.. One of the
only things saving me.. Always resort to them if you're having difficulty
getting enough liquids in.. They help.. Later.
Kimberly Greer
I started my process in February, finally got a date
at my July orientation, which was set for 9/11. Then,
while on vacation, my surgeon fell while hiking and
broke his leg. Now I'm back to not having a date
because he had to cancel all surgeries for at least 2
months. Now I'm looking closer to November. Bummer!
The waiting process is the worst thing a person has to
go through, in my opinion.
Shannon in WA
Today I celebrate my 8 month anniversary. I'm taking a moment to reflect. It
absolutely amazes me that I don't even weigh 200 lbs anymore.
I was hoping to have lost 150 lbs by today, but I didn't quite make it. I've
lost 148.
I'd do WLS again in a second.
Kimmie
Lap RNY 12/19/02
343/195/135
Did you all have to wait forever for your appointments? For example,
Jan 15 I called my surgeon for an appointment. I was told that I was
in luck because they had a cancellation. My appt was set for July 2,
if there hadn't been a cancellation I'd have to wait until Sept.
Well, I had the appt and everything went great, and I was pre-
approved for the open RnY. I've been waiting for my surgery date.
Although I've been calling twice a week since 7/2, this past Friday I
was told that my surgery will be in Feb or Mar 04. I was supposed to
call back today for a firm date. I just called, the person who was
supposed to get me a firm date is on vacation. How can she go on
vacation when she told me to call her? Do you think she's trying to
avoid me? Have any of you had to wait over a year for your surgery?
Please, I need to feel like something is really going to happen. I'm
dying here.
Lizanne
245/ /135
Maryland
hey guys. @ the "graduate" group, (i don't consider myself a
graduate) but anyway, there's prot supp website with some interesting
info. the site has a vested interest, of course, but they claim a
number of things, such as how long a shake can stay fresh, etc
http://www.vitalady.com/why_protein.htm
lori h.
15 grateful months post-op
Well hello everone, sorry I have3 been unable to get to you but im
done, yep out of the hospital now and with 5 days post-op i am proud
to say I have lost 14 pnds so far. The surgery was a huge success
and I am having no regrets so far. It is deffenetly a big lifestyle
change that I HAVE to accept and have accepted in my life to make
my life healthier and better.I want to thank all of you for all your
wonderful emails and prayers and want to encourage any of you that
are considering this same surgery, to go for it, it is totally worth
it. if have any questions feel free to call or email me., In closing
I want to thank you all again and hope to see you all on the losing
side come love you all very much and god bless.......... 377/364/180
Loric,
You bring up a lot of interesting thoughts. I too wish I had a
diagram of my new insides. I'm still in the, "I can't believe I did
this stage." and sometime when I get an ache or a pain, I wish I had
a way to describe it better than, "my insides just feel funny." Not
the 'ha ha' funny either. I too am having trouble adjusting to
sleeping with wounds. On one side, everything slides down to meet
the matteress, same on the other. I'm finding the when I wake up I'm
on my tummy, which is very unusual for me. Then again, when I'm
feeling those funny feelings, laying on my belly, letting the bed
press up into my seems to make me feel better. It's the same
position I use when I'm really crampy from "that time of the month"
stuff, too. I didn't think that I would be an active participant
here, but I am finding that I feel better reading that people are
going through or have gone through some of the same though processes
I am going through right now. Like I said, I still can't believe
I've done it. When I sign my postings with Lap Rny 8/12/03, I sit
back and think to myself, "I can't believe that's ME!" I have to say
I am very proud of myself. I am doing what I have to do to make my
life better and longer. I wish I had my husbands support though.
Just tonight he asked me to sit and keep him company while he ate
his dinner. I said no and he was actually amgry with me. So I stay
in bed and relax. An hour later he shows up in bed with a plate full
of some kind of pie we had before my surgery. Don't get me wrong. I
don't want him to not eat things he wants to, it's his body. But I
want him to respect me and mine. I guess it's more up to me to take
care of myself than expecting anyone else to do it for me. So this
takes me to that sad part. I feel sad, but I know why. I cry much
easier, I miss my dad like crazy, commercials make me weep, on the
other hand they make me laugh, too, so I guess I'm going to be thin
and manic depressive! What a bargain! Makes me think I need to start
taking that Lexapro again! I stopped taking it because I was afraid
the pill would block my stoma! Silly, I know...it's bigger than
that. I was afraid to take the pain pills they sent home with me
because I can't take the liquid codeine they would have liked me to
take. I dont do codeine and darvocet is a large pill, even if you
break it in half. I feel like I'm babbling here. Maybe he's finished
that pie and I can go back to bed. Then again, I haven't slept well
since the 2nd night home. I might have to ask the doc for something
to help me out. Thanks for listening. Thanks for being here!
Michelle
Stevenson Ranch, CA
Lap RNY 8/12/03 <~~thats the part!!!
219/209/? to be determined.
Kimberly,
If you dont mind sharing, how far post-op are you? I am starting to
feel blue myself and wonder if this is perfectly normal. I am not
missing food, i just cant put my finger on why i am sad. I cant get
to sleep at night either. Hope you dont mind sharing.
Lori- MI
Open RnY 8/1/03
To heck with lurking, I'm just a big ole blabbermouth in real life
anyway. I know you will do fine. I have 0 tolerance for pain and i
havent taken anything since they sent me home. I thought I would be
incapacitated, but I'm not. As a matter of fact, I just came home
from a quick shopping for more protein powder. This might be a good
topic for conversation on this board. Does anyone know of a good,
tasty, chocolate protein powder that is really satisfying? My cousin
told me about Designer Whey and that's not all that bad. Today the
man at GNC told me the one most of his clients who have had WLS buy
is called IsoPure. It has 50grms of protein in each serving. What a
great way to get in all of your protein in one drink. They also have
premixed drinks in fruit flavors. I've had Passion Fruit ( he says
all the women buy this flavor first!) and in the fridge is a bottle
of green apple. Each bottle has 40grms so while you're sipping your
clear liquids you also get the benifits of the protein. I never
asked the doc about it, but I'm guessing that anyway you can get
your proteins in cant be bad. Had a bad case of mouth hunger today
when I walked into the El Pollo Loco to get dinner for the family.
Silly me, I thought it would be easier than cooking! Survived,
though. So now I'm sipping my shake. Anyway, I'd better get the kids
into the shower. Gotta start practicing getting them ready for
school on Thursday. I can't believe they're going to be in 6th grade
already! BTW, I have twin boys 11 1/2 years old. So off I go. Have a
good day.
Michelle
Stevenson Ranch, CA
Lap RNY 8/12/03
219/209/? to be determined!
Thanks for asking. It is going pretty good. I have had no problems
with eating or drinking so far. Everything has gone down just fine
and no real problems. The incision is closed and the drain site is
also closed. I am having these pains on the inside here and there.
I called the offcie they say it is scar tissue... ok. So what does
that really mean. Scar tissure at the points they reconnected this
and that? I feel like i need a diagram of my new insides on the
outside of my body. Then when i feel a pain i can say to myself..
ohh scar tissue at the connection of my Y limb, or scar tissue at
the stoma point on my pouch. I guess i am just thinking things are
going to well and that this pain is a sign of something. Maybe the
rest of the post ops remember these pains that come and go now and
then. I really notice them when i am trying to lay on my side to
sleep, or when you roll over. Guess i just need some reassurance
and i dont feel that the office can give me that. Did they have
this surgery?? NO!! I trust them, but finding out that others felt
the same pain here or there is more of a reassurance. That is why
these support groups are important. They should not replace that
call to your Dr, but as an additional resource. Thanks for letting
me whine a bit :D:D
Lori - MI
Open RnY 8/1/03