Gastric Bypass

Ummm LOL ... the direct quote should have been "You are looking smokin' hot".
hehehe
~blushes~

We've heard alot today about all the hurtful things that people say to us ...
well, I just want to share a good one.
At the gym I train at, there are two girls (myself and a girl I've really hit it
off with) and our trainers that train Monday and Wednesday together. Steven, my
friend's trainer (who is a hottie, yum yum LOL), told me yesterday that (and I
quote!!!) "I am looking smokin' hot". Can you say psyched, yeehaw!!!
Just thought I'd share. :-)
Hugs,
Diana

I'm going to be one of the post-ops speaking at the WLS seminar for my surgeon's
office tonight. Wish me luck, guys! It will be about 8 p.m. CST so try to send
me some good thoughts. ;-)
Hugs,
Diana

Hello all...
I just got home late yesterday from my WLS. It was a crazy experience to say
the least. I have never had any major surgery before and I wasn't sure what
to expect. Only from the posts of this group was I able to prepare myself
for most of what was to happen. Some of it wasn't as flawless as I had
hoped.
First of all my surgery was scheduled for 1:30pm on Friday but I was asked
to be there at 10:30am so that they could start an IV and get me prepared
for surgery. So I was there and they hooked me up and 1:30pm rolls around
and we hear from my doctor that he is still caught up in another hospital
and will be about 2 hours late. So this would put us at about 3:30pm. At
4:00pm they say that the doctor is ready but now they had other surgeries
scheduled and I would have to wait until about 7pm before a room opened up
and they were ready to take me. So after being there at 10:30am I finally
roll into surgery at 8:45pm.
The surgery goes without a hitch. The only thing I was complaining about was
pain in my back which I'm sure was a result of having been in that
uncomfortable gurney since 10:30am!
So they take me to my room which I must say was the nicest hospital room
I've ever seen. It had all of this woodwork and crown moulding. It was huge
with a couch-bed, a big round table with chairs and a big comfy chair in
addition to cable TV and VCR. The bathroom was immense with a huge walk-in
shower and we even had a little refrigerator. We must have won the hospital
lottery. I mean the room had a panoramic view of the city and everything. It
was very nice!
I felt alright except for the intense gas pain in the lower part of my
stomach. They told me I needed to walk and it would pass but it never did.
For days I suffered with the pain and even the medication that they gave me
didn't help. The gas pain started to move from my lower belly upwards. (The
wrong way!!!) When I told the doctor, he seemed to dismiss my claims and
wondered if my pain was due to something else like leakage or whatever. He
drew a white blood cell count and everything was fine. I knew it was gas.
I'm 34 years old... I know what gas pain is. Finally he ordered a
suppository and that was the start of everything moving it's way out. They
wound up keeping me an extra day. But I am home now. I still have moderate
gas pain that I am contending with. DID ANYONE ELSE GO THROUGH THIS OR AM I
SPECIAL? I am also in and out of a low grade fever. Is this normal?
While I was in the hospital I got a call from Diane "Impstress"! My wife and
I thought that was very sweet! We have never met Diane before although we
live in the same area. We just thought that it was very kind of her to look
me up while I was in the hospital to give me words of encouragement. If for
no other reason... This is why it is good to be part of the family. I mean
members of my actual family didn't even call me while I was in the hospital!
Thank you so much for caring Diane and we hope to see you soon at one of the
support meetings! Thank you all for being there!
Sincerely,
Ross Karpelman
post-op 8/22/03
440/?/?
New Orleans, La.

Hi, Ross!
So glad to hear you are home! I just posted the note to the group letting them
know you were ok and about talking to you and Melissa. :-)
I get gas pains at times now and it's the most icky feeling ... it's usually a
pain that causes a huge stitch in my side feeling and I've found that walking
combined with drinking hot/warm liquids helps.
I look forward to meeting both you and Melissa at one of the support groups
meetings. And if you ever need anything, just let me know.
Diana

Everyone get scared about surgery and everything.But I can say
you'll be happier in the end of the it.I felt the same way you
did.I'm one week out and 15 pound lightier of fat.I was worried that
I wouldn't make it the frist week and told myself God what the world
did I do it for.Well one week out and I can say I know I wouldn't
change what I've done now.I never been able to stand on the Doctors
scale before the surgery and today I thought the Doctors office
throught I was crazy when I laugh and yell with Joy becuz I could be
weight on the dumb scale.I know crazy t just 18 pounds but that the
most I lost in ten years.Mostly when surgery was only one week
ago.So If you need a friend and someone just to yell at e-mail and
I'm here.I know You'll be great and yhappier after it's over.Every
Doctors differnce and when I had surgery the Dr. sent me home on
soft foods and bye the end of the month reg food.sI haven't been
sick or ect since So Diane I wish the best and hope to here from you
soon and Hang in there Were all here and God will always be by your
sides all the way.God Bless a friend debkroll of Iowa,Surgery date
Aug.18,2003,Wt# 357.5/339.5/180 or less.God with you everystep of
what every you do or go.

Diane,
Welcome to the group and I am so sorry you were treated so horribly. I
work in an office of all skinny people who complain about their weight
and it's very hard for me not to scream at them for making me feel so
miserable and fat. I work on a university campus and get snickers from
students. I've told a few people about it and they can't believe
college students/adults would do this. They do and it does hurt. I
have been overweight my whole life and am tired of the stigma. I feel
like if I eat a piece of cake for someone's birthday everyone is staring
at me to see how much I eat compared to them. Overweight people are
truly discriminated against.
You will find a wealth of information here and a wonderful group of
supportive people who have "been there, done that."
Good luck to you all.
Robin
Wisconsin

I post on here once in a while but mostly I lurk. Just wanted to
let everyone know I got my date. I am having surgery on 9/26. ONE
MONTH FROM TODAY. I can't believe it. Anyway I am a little excited
if you couldn't tell. I wanted to let everyone here know how much I
appreciate the support and information that is on this group. I will
probably be posting more once I am a post op.
Rachel

I spoke to Ross Karpelman at the hospital on Saturday and he sounded great.
I just called to check on him and actually got to speak to both him and Melissa
briefly.
He wanted me to let everyone know that he was doing ok. :-)
Diana

So Bill,
Good for you!!!
How long did it take before you could actually say you felt Good?
I'm just trying to get an idea of how long it takes to get to the
point where you don't think you made a mistake. I'm pre-op and know
that some suffering is going to occur, I'm just trying to psych
myself up for how long it will take before I can see the light at the
end of the tunnel.
Lizanne
pre-op(tomistic)

Diane,
Your email brought tears to my eyes. I once married a man who told
me that if I gained any more weight, he would divorce me. Well, we
divorced almost 15 years ago. People don't realize how hurtfull they
can be. I feel it's their lack of upbringing that causes this. I
feel sorrier for them that I do us. We can do something about our
weight now that this surgery is available. Unless they make a
concerted effort, they will remain the way they are for the rest of
their life. It's so sad.
That doesn't cure the problem they cause. I've seen a bumper sticker
that says "Mean People Suck". They are leading a much sadder life
than us, because they can't be reaping the wonder benefits of being a
good-hearted person. Don't lower yourself to their level, just keep
thinking about how you will act once you get closer to your ideal
weight. You'll know how it feels to be a big hearted person who
knows what it feels like to be critised for no reason.
I know there are times I just want to stomp on people who act like
these low lifes in their 20's, but then I realize that doesn't stop
the problem, education does. Maybe your co-workers would understand
that better if you just told them that they hurt your feelings,
privately. I bet they didn't even stop to think about it.
Gid Bless You,
Lizanne
pre-op(tomistic)

Diane,
I'm very sorry that you experienced those incidents. Unfortunately I
don't think that they are uncommon for people of size. Simply put we
now live in a society that allows this.
About two weeks ago,waiting in the waiting room for blood work at my
Dr.s' office, I checked in and was in the process of giving insurance
info. when I overhear a young couple whispering to each other about
how disgusting I am. At a local Wal-Mart, I had to walk thru the
juniors sections to get to plus-size clothing and these kids probably
16-18years are standing there like I crossed an invisable line with
their arms crossed and one says to the other"Yeah she wishes-hahahaha"
Of course it's disturbing. I've mentioned it to friends and relatives
(that aren't overwieght ya know) and they say I'm just too sensitive.
They are wrong. I don't think that there is really anything we can do
to change the way these people think except to raise our children to
believe that "fat" people have feelings too. Since this isn't a
situation that will go away overnight I have chosen to change my
attitude about the whole thing...It' childish but feels good when I
think about it...I may be fat but I've found a way to lose the
weight. Their kind of ugly goes clear to the bone! I feel sad for
them in a way. Sad because they will never know what it is like to be
us. They are missing out on knowing some pretty fantastic people.
I decided to have the surgery when my 2year old went running up the
dirt road where we live, I went to run after her in a panic and
barely caught her because I couldn't run-after she was safe all I
could think about was-I hope nobody heard that-It was a clapping
sound coming from my belly hitting my legs as they came up. How
humiliating.
Sorry this is so long. Just wanted you to know you are not alone! I
sincerely hope that you find what you are looking for. This is a
wonderful place with wonderful people and fantastic resources. Keep
in touch, Constance

I can answer one of those questions. My brother had the surgery
almost a year ago. He has become the party guy, and drinks like a
fish. I'm not saying this is a good thing to do, but he waited 7
months before trying booze, and since he had no problems he has taken
full advantage. He doesn't drink mixers. I don't know if that
matters, but his drinks are all no mixer and on the rocks.
Lizanne
Pre-op

Hi Dee Yes You'll be able to have children after the surgery at
least two years they would like to have you wait.Your young and have
a long life.My friend she had surgery years ago and after she had
children.Her second son gradautaed last years and look and she does
great.So yes You'll be able to have children.Just make sure to wait
two years.and take care of your self and Vitiamins.And you'll be
fine.I haven't taking anything for Birth control four nine years but
once I want to have the surgery they made sure one thing I was put
on something so I don't get PG.They state that after the weight lose
your body easier to become Pregant.So God Bless and hang in there
There life and children after surgery.a friend debkroll of
Iowa,Surgery dater Aug.18,2003,Wt # 357.5./149.5./180.

Woke up this am, and went for my first bike ride, since I was advised
to wait 6 weeks. I like to ride, so was looking forward to it. A
little tiring against the morning breezes, but it was nice. Back
home by 7:20 am, and weighed myself, down another pound, and now half
way to goal! Went shopping Saturday and purchased new shorts, size
38 and XL shirts (caught a great sale price, too), since my 42's and
XXL's are getting a bit baggy. Tomorrow get my blood work done. I
have greatly cut down on my medications, and am feeling great. Am I
glad I had WLS? You betcha!
bill g

Hi my name is Diane and I just recently joined the group. I am in
my upper 30's, and about 120 lbs overweight. I have been thinking
about WLS for about a year now. I just learned how to join a group
and am excited to hear from other people like me.
I am scared to death about permanently changing my digestive
system. I worry that I may be creating other health problems
regarding nutrition etc for myself down the road. Regardless of all
the risks I think I might finally be ready to talk to some doctors
about my options.
I have thought about this a lot but to be honest, I hit rock bottom
last week. We were standing around in a group of about 6 at my
office job. We were talking about what each of our strengths were
on ` THE TEAM'. My team is about 18 people, half men, half women,
none of them fat except for me. One of my female co-workers made
the comment that my greatest strength was `cleaning up the cookie
tray and left-overs' from treats that we frequently bring in to
share with each other. I was so humilitated but didn't want to draw
further attention to the comment so just smiled and pretended it was
funny. I guess they all define me by my weight and have no value
for my skills or my feelings. I am so fed up of being the `butt' of
the joke. And my feelings were just plain crushed!
To make matters worse, about two days later, I went out to my
mailbox at home, (I live on a very busy street) and a truck with 3
men in their mid-s20's drove by and yelled at me to `try eating a
salad'. Total strangers, grown men who had no need to be cruel to
me. I did nothing to provoke this. Needless to say, I spent a
portion of my evening in tears.
I don't have many close friends and none of them have the weight
problem I have. Is it just me that gets treated like this? Did
any of you get this kink of crap from others? What made you
finally decide that surgery was the only option for you? Was there
a `last straw' for you?
Thanks
Diane

(((Diane)))
People can be so cruel and honestly don't understand. I am sorry that you were
hurt by vicious words. I used to have comments made to me all the time, one
night I was out with friends at a dance club having a great time ( not at my
highest wieght but about 150 over) as I was walking pass a group of " studly"
men, I heard one of them make a comment about my weight, needless to say it put
a damper on the rest of my evening.
In my job, there were countless times that I had been passed up for a promotion,
because of my weight, basically because the position had more direct face to
face contacts with our customer base. Of course they would never admit that was
the reason, but the fact that three weeks after my return from my medical leave,
and down 60 pounds, I recieved that promotion, really let me know that it was
one of the contributing factors.
I have been overweight my whole life, dealing with the cruel words of people
starting at a young age. Being tormented as a child to being ignored as an adult
as if what I was saying had no bearing because of my weight. Hearing so often
you are so beautiful, but you should really try and lose some weight, would make
me so mad. Over my Career of weightloss I have lost and gained over 1000
pounds. Those who have not been through it could not possibly understand the
mental anguish that we go through, and how deep the cruel words actually cut
into us. I think we all have had situations in our lives where others dont think
about what they say and how it can effect someone else. Whether its weight,
looks, sex,height, religion, ethniciy, there are people out there who think it
is ok to say things to degrade those who are " different" than they are,
unfortunately they are actually the ones who are losing out in the end.
My reasons for having WLS was medical, even though at the time of surgery, my
medical issues were " minor" compared to others, ( i had sleep apena,
narcolepsy, and low oxygen intake( below 40) ) at the rate I was going, I would
not live to have seen my children graduate high school, my oldest is 12 and my
youngest is 10. That scared the heck out of me and my husband, it took us a
year to decide that we would actually do this. I say we, because without his
support and the support of my family, I honestly dont believe I would have been
as successful as I have been. We involved our children in the decision process,
because it effected them as well. They knew all the risks of what could happen
before I went in, they met my surgeon and asked him questions, they talked to
people who had had the surgery, asked all sorts of questions and got the answers
that helped them understand.
I am starting to ramble here... but know you are not alone, we have all been
through what you have in some form or another. I wish you the best :)
Take care
Ruth
Post Op Open RNY Dr Bruce Thayer
386/206/???
Oct 29,2003
dley8 <dley8@...
Hi my name is Diane and I just recently joined the group. I am in
my upper 30's, and about 120 lbs overweight. I have been thinking
about WLS for about a year now. I just learned how to join a group
and am excited to hear from other people like me.
I am scared to death about permanently changing my digestive
system. I worry that I may be creating other health problems
regarding nutrition etc for myself down the road. Regardless of all
the risks I think I might finally be ready to talk to some doctors
about my options.
I have thought about this a lot but to be honest, I hit rock bottom
last week. We were standing around in a group of about 6 at my
office job. We were talking about what each of our strengths were
on ` THE TEAM'. My team is about 18 people, half men, half women,
none of them fat except for me. One of my female co-workers made
the comment that my greatest strength was `cleaning up the cookie
tray and left-overs' from treats that we frequently bring in to
share with each other. I was so humilitated but didn't want to draw
further attention to the comment so just smiled and pretended it was
funny. I guess they all define me by my weight and have no value
for my skills or my feelings. I am so fed up of being the `butt' of
the joke. And my feelings were just plain crushed!
To make matters worse, about two days later, I went out to my
mailbox at home, (I live on a very busy street) and a truck with 3
men in their mid-s20's drove by and yelled at me to `try eating a
salad'. Total strangers, grown men who had no need to be cruel to
me. I did nothing to provoke this. Needless to say, I spent a
portion of my evening in tears.
I don't have many close friends and none of them have the weight
problem I have. Is it just me that gets treated like this? Did
any of you get this kink of crap from others? What made you
finally decide that surgery was the only option for you? Was there
a `last straw' for you?
Thanks
Diane

Hey everyone i had a question. I am only 21 and have no kids and i was
wondering if anyone has had kids after their surgery. I want to make sure that
if
i decide to have this surgery that i can still have kids no problem.
thanks ahead of time
XOXO
dee

In case anyone is interested...I found a place on the internet that offers
a large selection of professional medical equipment such as large capacity
scales. http://medicalscales.com/siltec/PS500L.html This particular one
goes to 500lbs an is $179 + shipping. I got mine in about a week and it
works great. Unfortunately...it has revealed my true weight (: My pcp
scales only went to 350 so I has to guess before this...I was a very
optomistic guesser.

I feel so bad for you I know Insurance Companys are Assholes excuied
my language.But it's true.Well I was put on Wellbupfin sorry can't
spell the dumb drug.It wasn't helping me making things worse.I was
on before and after surgery but after surgery I couldn't take that
stuff anymore.It made me more sick.I've just quit taking it but I
feel so much better with a clear head and all.So you don't feel
right contact your Doctor and see if theres something else.I can't
talk for you but For my self.I just couldn't stand the stuff.I'm one
week out now and feeling really good today.My insuion is healing
good I'm eating soft to reg food now.Not over doing and measured
everthing I eat and drink.and the biggie WALK WALK WALk.I have my
frist appointment after surgery Sept.4,and I know more.I don't know
when I'm hungry so I made up a notebook of when and what I eat I eat
6 little 1 oz meals and drinking about 45 to 54 oz of water or
crystal light.But I can say the frist week I cryied some and talked
and yelled at my self WHAT THE WORLD DID I DO THIS FOR.But after I
got off the drugs and cleared my head and the pain started
clearing.I will say I'm glad I did it.I'm much happier and don't
miss the food.So anyone whom feels worried I can say I love it now
much better So hang in there and Please just don't give up your day
will come.And you'll see the better side of it all.God Bless each
and everyone here.We fight to live and fight to loses.I know God
will be with everything with what all and everything you'll go
through.So Tonya Please Keep bugging and stay on top of it I keep
you in my prayers that everything works out for you soon.a friend
debkroll of Iowa,Surgery Date Aug.18,2003,Wt# 357.5/349.5/180 or
better I'll be happy.

I don't think that they were too much so to speak, but just a MAJOR eye opener!!
Like I said before, I don't want to go in with my eyes closed. I want to know
all, good and bad!! Thanks again for all the info
Angie D

Hi, Sue!
I've been trying to reply to your email message from last week but it keeps
being returned. :-( Are you having mailbox troubles?
Diana

I have some questions that I would love to get some feedback one.
First, what causes hernias, and are there things you can do to
prevent getting them?
Second- Are there precautions you can take to lessen the chance that
you will have tons of loose skin?
Third- Post-Op, are you able to consume alcoholic beverages at all,
in moderation?
Any thoughts/experience/advice is Welcome-- Thanks!
Amy
surgery scheduled 10/14/03

Robin,
thanks :) and the same to you :) wtg :) definately
feel that way .. you just want to tell them to get a
life lol
take care ruth

i tried, but couldn't find a pair of thighs like mine. i typed
in "medial thigh lift surgery" & got a number of sites. my excess
skin is confined only to the upper inner 1/3.
oh, & sorry if the body lift pics from earlier were too much; i was
pretty astounded myself.
lori h.

Hey girl, I have not even sought for approval yet from my insurance yet so I
don't know how you feel. I can only imagine!! Some companies just want your
money and never want to pay out. Hang in there!! Maybe they will approve it and
if not, like you said go buy other insurance. Cigna is offered in New Orleans
isn't it. Check into them if you have too. The covered 100% fertility so maybe
they will cover wl. I will be praying for you. Let me know how it goes. Stay
strong!! I went to your website. You as well as your family are beautiful!!
Where are the update pics of Katlin and the new baby???? LOL
Angie

Oh, I feel so bad for you. It's too bad that there isn't something
we could do to help. Sometimes just writing things down helps get it
off your chest. I thought my delays took forever, I started in Jan
and can only hope that I will have surgery in Feb or Mar 2004. You
did the best you could for now. You were very organized, now you
have to wait. I'm praying for you. It couldn't hurt. Maybe you
will just have to wait for your new insurance to kick in.
Lizanne
Maryland
pre-op

I know that a lot of ppl have liver problems, especially fatty
livers, before surgery. U don't have to be REALLY overweight to have
this. Some dr's are unaware that the liver is fatty until they do
the surgery. Your liver enzymes may have been elevated all
along...you just didn't know. I have never heard that this surgery
causes liver problems.
PS The chat room is running right now. Ask the question there.
Just click on "CHAT" to the left side of this screen.
Lizanne
Pre-op

hi, i am so depressed and sick over this i don't know what to do - i'm sure
many of your have been at this a lot longer than me and are sick of it to --
i have BCBS PPO of Illinois - which is supposed to be one of the good states
that have high approval rates - i pay 1,000 month for this on COBRA which
ends in march - my dr office sent their info pack and got a response "didn't
meet criteria" which is BS - i meet criteria more than you can believe - i
then asked the dr to fax me what they faxed the dr b/c i really was not
expecting a denial - the info was vague and i would have denied it myself -
so i gathered more information and added a sleep study and a personal letter
and just basically re-arranged the information better - i grouped the ICD-9
codes with disease process with the medication i take for it so you can see
it all at a glance and sent my years worth of meds from walgreens - once
again i inever expected a denial - there is no more information i can
provide them with other than a photo which they said wouldn't make a
difference. i called friday and it was denied because "there was no mention
of exercise" - i called the girl and pulled my copy and had her pull her
copy and gave the specific page and year where i specified 2 different
physician assisted programs that combined medication and exercise -
specifically swimming and walking and strength endurance.
i then pulled out my book "complete guide to obesity surgery and had pretty
much covered all my bases except getting letters from physicians - although
i had medical records where the dr said it was necessary - 3 of them to be
exact - it also mentioned asking how many appeals are you allowed - so i
then had hope that i would do this and submit that while waiting to hear
from them this time which can be from 2 weeks to 60 days - when i called i
only get one appeal process and its already in progress so i didn't get to
add any info - all they did was combine what the dr packet with the packet i
put togeather. i'm not very hopeful at this point and now expect a denial.
has anyone been through all this and what was the outcome?
on a good note - i have to buy insurance in march and you can bet your ass
it won't be BCBS if i can help it - i will search for one that covers WLS
and hope that works.
i am just so depressed over this its ridiculous -
and they put me on wellbutrin and i'm having a horrid effect - aggitation -
major aggitation - i could be violent - i've already stopped it and i can't
wait for it to get out of my system.
thanks for reading if you got this far.
Tanya
visit our website
www.geocities.com/tanyarn96/countryside.html

Yes, in my right upper abdomen, right under my ribs

Did you have pain because of this??

Hi Tracy
I am 3 months post op and since about 4 weeks post op my liver enzymes had
been elevated. They have since come down and are now normal. My surgeon said
it was common due to the rapid weight loss. Hope everything is fine with you
tomorrow :)
~ami~

had trouble posting.. hopefully this doesn't post twice now:
Question for those with more experience or medical knowledge than
myself:
I had surgery on 7/30/2003, I did great for approximately 2 1/2 weeks
post-op, got a little over confident and went back to work right
away. I had pain, posted the question on here and called the surgeon
like you all suggested, he told his nurse to tell me over the phone
it was probably just muscle pain and he is going to see me tomorrow.
I work in a prison, and the medical staff there mentioned to me to
ask him to check my liver enzymes when I go in, that the pain I'm
experiencing seems to be similar to those they see who have liver
problems.
Is this common? Anyone heard of this surgery causing that problem in
patients? Anyone know what they do for that?
I'll be doing my research tonight just incase, but I see the doctor
at 10:30 tomorrow and I'm in pain and have been for the last
week..I'd like to know more about this so I can ask the right
questions when I go in.
As always.. your knowledge is appreciated, thank you for being here
to help me thru all the questions that arise!
Tracy Rexford
7/30/2003 Lap RNY
239/205/130

Hello ladies first all sweetbabyblues - such a young grandmother you are.
Welcome to the group do your homework and you will be just fine ask any
question you want. Ruth you have done so well 386-206 WOW 180 #'s this is
just wonderful and I so loved your story on attitude changes from certain
people I am also in the public eye and have seen so much of this it makes me
ill. Especially men who did not notice me and all of the sudden I am there
best friend Yeah right buddy I am the same person
so there. Have a good day ladies !!!
Robin O- Calif
211-135-????
Dec 5 2002

can you send me the link to the surgery that you are having?
Thanks
Angie

HI,
i think that you're not chewing the food enough. I mean really really chew!!
and take very small bites and let it sit a while before taking another one.
it'll get better with time. if not just ask your doc.
good luck,
eileen
loric_smith <loric_smith@...
Hello all,
I have been able to try some new things, semi-solid, like flaked
salmon, mashed potatoes, etc. What does it feel like if you over
eat? I am having such terrible pain and I dont think I ate to
much. But it is almost like a cramping feeling, tightening up at
the bottom of your throat. Is that it?? I dont like it and prefer
to eat my liquids if this is always going to happen each time i try
something.
Thanks
Lori - MI
Open RnY 8/1/03

Reminder Reminder from the Calendar of Gastric_Bypass_Family
Weekly Group Chat!!
Monday August 25, 2003
7:00 pm - 10:00 pm
This event repeats every week.
Notes:

I'm assuming that by the name of your Multivitamin that it came from
Walmart...What would be best for you is get the One Source Childrens
Multivitamin Chewable...That is what my surgeon recommended.
Big Hugz & Warm Smiles
Debbie
Northern Minnesota
Pre-Op Lap RNY 9/15/03
Current Weight 269 lbs.

Hello all hope everyone is doing well. Had a question I will be 2 weeks post
op on Wed and am still on the clear liquids. The Drs. had told me that I would
want to get some protein drinks for when I got up graded to full
liquids...They recommend the whey protein drinks. I didn't realize till I had it
home that
I had goofed and bought the soy protein kind do you think there is much of a
difference ? Another question I had is that I bought a mulit vitamin/mineral
supplement called once source and I have been taking it daily but it is a huge
pill and I have to cut it into 4 pieces do you think this is OK to do? I
didn't see anything on the bottle that says take whole but wondered if anyone
might
be able to answer those questions for me. Thanks everyone.
Cindy B in NY
8/13/03 open rny
228/205/120?

Hiya Angie D and Carol C
I must be looking in the wrong places or maybe it's time for glasses....LOL
Thanks
Pam C
New Orleans
pre-op
post-op wannabe
Angie Dougan <jluvsa@...
Hi carol! We are almost neighbors. I live in Louisiana. 3 1/2 hours from you...I
agree that everyone looks younger.
Angie D
waiting for consultation

Sherry Jan. seems so far away to you I am sure however it really will be
here before you know it.
There are so many things you can start doing now. You will need a letter
recommending that you have this procedure from your medical doctor you can
do this now you will need to do a lot of homework so you understand what
your choices are. Talk to others in your area where do you live ?
A good doctor is a MUST I have seen the difference just here in my small
town. Make sure that your doctor has great feed back it is so very important
! Call your Insurance Company and ask what you can do ahead of time. Check
on other seminars in your area. Your smart to be concerned you are young and
have alot of fun and work ahead of you and the better your health the better
you will feel.
I had lap on Dec 5th I feel wonderful and would do it all over again in 5
minutes ! But I had a great doctor. Take Care any questions just ask !
Robin O - Calif
211-135-???
Dec 5 2002

yes!! yes!! i'm bracing myself for the procedure, it's extreme!! i
have printout from the journal "Plastic Reconstructive Surgery" & it
in part states that "anchoring of the inferior skin flap to the tough,
inelastic deep layer of the superficial perineal fascia...has reduced
the problems such as inferior scar migration, labial separation, &
early recurrence of pstosis". not only is it excruciatingly painful &
uncomfortable, there's a chance of probs because of the location of
the incisions:the privates, ouch! lol! my only consolation is that's
the only reconstruction i "need".
what did your brother have? a belt lipectomy? tt?
lori h.

you go rosario!!! take pictures so you can document your progress.
lori h.

send energizing wishes, hang in there. congrats on the w l!!!
lori h.

WAY TO GO!!! That is awesome!! When was your surgery again? I am so proud of
you!! Keep those updates coming. Praying for a smooth and speedy recovery.
Angie D

Hi everyone!
Just thought I'd share that after my follow up with the doctor this past
Thursday, I've come down 36.4 lbs. (yes, I'm counting ounces because they are
there)! I don't see it but everyone else does.
Rosario
320.1/283.7/130.0

I know that he is the head of the surgical team at the hospital.Head of the
bariatric department at 2 hospitals. In the pamphlet that I have it just stated
that I would have to lose a few pounds before the surgery as it will shrink my
liver and allow a better view to do the lap surgery(which he prefers) It didn't
specify what kind or how long or even how many pounds. Thanks for the advice. I
am writing them down!!
Angie

amanda, feel free to ask away.
lori h.

hi MI lori. you got the famous bowling ball feeling? how did you
do with blenderized soups? no need to rush the progression...
lori h.

i'll keep my fingers crossed, hope you get a date, & soon. hang in
there.
lori h.

hi guys, been reading your post for a little while now, i have a appt with my
surgen on thrusday and im getting excited, seeing the pros and cons of all
this, im glad there is a support group for us to talk about our fears and how we
feel, im scared but i know im doing the right thing, bye the way, my name is
Amanda and i am from wichita ks. Having the Lap rny done here with dr Porter.

Hello all,
I have been able to try some new things, semi-solid, like flaked
salmon, mashed potatoes, etc. What does it feel like if you over
eat? I am having such terrible pain and I dont think I ate to
much. But it is almost like a cramping feeling, tightening up at
the bottom of your throat. Is that it?? I dont like it and prefer
to eat my liquids if this is always going to happen each time i try
something.
Thanks
Lori - MI
Open RnY 8/1/03

your visitor shouldn't be a prob, OR's probably handle that on a
daily basis.
& mmmm, popeye's, got me droolin'!
lori h.

i'm beyond excited for you! you're a pro, so no last minute tips,
just sending lots of love. just wait till you can sign "post-op"!
prayers & positivity always!
lori h.

OK gals here I go ... My surgery is tomorrow and my let's say unwanted aunt
flow came for her monthly visit since Thursday and she is still here will that
cause a problem tomorrow with the you know catheter insertion process
EWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW they won't cancel my surgery when they
see my
auntie will they :) I am telling you gals sometimes it's like being Job when
it comes to woman things LOL. All this time nothing and then time for surgery
and then ding dong guess whose here for a visit LOL I guess such is the
pattern of my extremely whacky life LOL. Please let me know about this it is
driving me crazy and after midnight I can't have squat LOL. Oh and my last meal
consisted of Popeye's chicken wings a table spoon of dirty rice and a tablespoon
of mac and cheese and a biscuit LOL. I have been sucking on a liquid diet for
two weeks prior I said dang I am gonna eat even prisoners get a last meal
LOL. Well that's all folks
Lori Anne
pre-op Lap RNY
8/25/03

Lori Anne,
I don't think you'll have any problem at all. I had my "Aunt" come to
visit three days before and they told me that it wasn't a big deal at
all. I don't know how your surgeon will do it but if I had a catheter, I
don't know it because I must have been out of it when they put it in,
and out of it when they took it out. So I wouldn't worry about it if I
were you :).
Sounds like you had a great last meal! Good luck tomorrow. I know you'll
come through with flying colors! You are a true source of information
and inspriation around here! I can't wait to see you at Disney World
next Christmas!
Tanya
432/370/170
Lap RNY 6/20/03
PS. I also have a delicate question for posties. I don't want to post it
on here though because it would be too much for the men. Could someone
(who doesn't have a weak stomach) email me privately so that I can ask?
Thanks y'all!
T

(((((((((((((((((((((TOI)))))))))))))))))))
You know we all love you girl you are the poster child for inspiration and
determination and I for one love you :) That award winning smile of yours
lights up the computer screen LOL and I know the positive changes that you have
made for your own life has radiated it's effects like a rainbow throughout the
lives of your family and friends and yes even to us in cyberspace :) So you go
girl and let that little light of yours shine ,shine, shine.
Lori Anne
pre-op Lap RNY
8/25/03

Hello group! I wanted to know when the next scheduled time is for a
chat? I keep missing the times so I'd like to try to get a time ahead
of the day to try to join in. Thanks Kathy

hi kathy. the "official" chat is on mondays from 7-10 p.m. EST,
though the chat room is always open.
lori h.

thanx jill, think the lesson sunk into my coconut.
where are you in your journey?
lori h.

yep, blessed is just right! you're doing a great job, super proud
of ya. 118 lbs is phenomenal!
lori h.

Jill,
Thanks for the affirmation of my choice in surgeon. Should I look for
you in the Hurley ICU after my surgery? lol
~sun
pre-op waiting for a surgery date.
Going for cardiac clearance Wed. Aug 27th. Required due to family
history of heart disease.

Its like beginning life all over again (or for the first time), isn't
it? A medium, huh??? WTG!!!! You've done so good and are such an
inspiration.
Toi

that is awesome!! I am so glad for you. You keep up that positive attitude. You
are a beautiful women inside and out!!
Angie DO

Well, this week I enter into my 9th post-op month. What a
journey!!! Not an easy journey all the time, but a very rewarding
one. Early on I battled with nausea, extreme fatigue, sever
dehydration, and heavy depression. Funny thing is that I literally
have to dredge up memories of those early months, because now my
whole outlook on life and my health are so wonderful. Would I do it
all again, even remembering those early pre-op difficulties? You
betcha!!! Because the rewards so faaaar outweight any complaints or
problems I may have had.
So, today I can proudly say I have lost 118 lbs and am FIRMLY below
200 lbs (190 to be exact). I am now fitting comfortably into a size
14. To the "average" sized person this probably still seems large,
but to me, it feels beautiful. I show bones I wasn't sure existed
any more. I can spend an afternoon at the farmer's market without
getting tired. I can walk the mall for hours back-to-school shopping
with my son and not have to rest. I can take vacations with my
family and actually participate in the outtings instead of sitting
around the hotel room not being able to muster up the energy to join
them. Best of all, I can finally look into a mirror and like what I
see.
I have my issues still, guilt for letting myself get to the unhealthy
point I was at, sorrow at still saying good bye to some of those old
(I thought at the time) comforting habits, a somewhat distorted body
image, and regret for those years lost to morbid obesity. But, I've
found that being healthier physically has also helped me to heal
mentally.
I wanna thank all my friends for their support these past several
months. All of you and your wonderful advice and cyber shoulders
have been a part of my success.
*big smiles*
Toi
Lap RNY Medial Bypass
12/31/02
-118 lbs
St. Mark's Hospital
Salt Lake City, UT
Dr. Steven Simper

hi guys. can't stop rambling about how life has been transformed
for me. last night, had the biggest blast @ a party & felt
completely NOT self conscious, danced & everything. my super hubb
couldn't stop complimenting me & grinned when a couple of guys
checked me out. ("she's MINE, you bozos", we laughed!)
this morning,we went to the beach (90 degrees @ miami beach,
perfection!!), while getting ready, dh asked why i was putting on
shorts, he wanted me to swim w/ him. told him i don't own a bathing
suit. actually the last bathing suit was a size 24 that i bought
for our honeymoon 20 months ago. so we head over to target & i
bought my first ever postie suit, in the juniors section, woohoo!
looked decent, except for the stretch marks on my shoulders & the
sharpei thighs that i covered with shorts, no sun allowed there per
the plastic surgeon. no rolls on my back anymore, wonderful.
this afternoon, bought the nicest shirt @ the Gap, a medium.
there is no feeling on earth that can describe & define the
elation!!!!!!!!!!
lori h.
almost 16 months out

Reminder Reminder from the Calendar of Gastric_Bypass_Family
Cleveland Clinic (Weston) meeting
Monday August 25, 2003
5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
This event repeats on the last Monday of every month.
Event Location: conference room
Notes:
email wlslori@... for more info/directions

thanx hunny. this is vital info & yeah, i had emailed this to my
work email, but i don't know how to download, upload, sideload, copy
& paste anything---how embarassing!! any volunteers?
lori h.

hang in there girl! it's a process, & personally all my struggles &
obstacles make the results sweeter & like i like
signing: "grateful". my progress wasn't automatic, wish i had a
buck for all the sour stomachs, vomitting episodes, that swallowed
a "bowling ball" feeling, you name it. all the hassles make me
appreciate & respect wls all the more, so it has served a purpose.
can another doc take over your care? are you taking your supps? it's
excellent that you're networking w/ local patients, too.
oh & thanx a million cabillion for the feedback, i relish being a
wls activist & crusader;-)
so i hope (& predict) that this uncomfortable hour will translate
into great results down the line for ya.
(((kim)))
lori h.

hi kimberly,
as i research and get ready for this surgery and check on sites that
everybody has complications it worries me because of the reason you are
saying - my uncle had it successfully - 600 lbs to 200 lbs currently and
still losing and eats anything he wants in smaller quantities and avoids
sugar and drinks water mostly and not with meals - i asked him when is he
going to stop losing? he doesn't know - he assumes he will just start eating
a little more at that time - i worry about the malabsorbtion more than the
restriction. and i've been reading the proximal absorbs more nutrients than
distal and i worry about this - yeh, i want to be smaller but not while
losing quality of life - makes no difference to me if i'm fat and dead or
skinny and dead - KWIM.....i've been praying about this and saying if its
meant to be it will happen and i've been denied 2x but i'm still working on
it. i wonder if these problems are a result of a bad surgeon or just one of
those surgeries that fall into the stats that has complications - i'm a
nurse and there is a saying when a nurse becomes a patient - everything that
can go wrong will and that is the story of my life. in the meantime i'm just
reading and learning. i hope everything works out well.
Tanya
visit our website
www.geocities.com/tanyarn96/countryside.html

Hiya Hon... twas me that posted the infectioncontrol info. Here it
is again, and feel free to upload it into the files if you would like.

Well Lori, I used to be strong and healthy in ways.. Now I don't feel so
strong anymore.. I'm actually pretty weak now-a-days.. (Well, I don't know about
pretty, lol) But I hope it passes shortly.. Anyway, I love how you inspire all
of us, and I mean that.. You're so motivating and supportive to the the whole
family here.. You make me feel alot better about myself, because you
respond.. You're great! It's nice to have friends like you and Deb to talk to
when I'm
down.. Or even to just listen to your experiences and posts.. Thanks for
being here for us when we're down in the "dumps."
It us unbelievable to myself as well, that the surgeon acts like there's no
existing problems or health concerns with any of his patients, when I know
better. I know some of his patients personally, and they are also very sick..
and
complaining still... And they're farther out than me.. I mean, I'm just a
month out.. Some of his patients are 5 or 6 months out that I know.. And
they're sick as a dog too.. One girl has had to be readmitted several times,
and
she still can't eat.. Yeah, she's lost 170 lbs.. but she's so weak and sick,
that it doesn't even really make sense.. She might get down to her goal weight,
but is it going to be worth it??? She says that if she could take it back,
she would.. And this woman couldn't even walk before.. It's amazing.. I hope I
don't feel the same way I do today, 5 or 6 months down the road.. I hope I'm
glad later, not regretfull.. I'm sorry for complaining all the time.. I'm sure
it gets old, but when I'm doing better, you'll all be the first ones to know..
Thanks again..
Kimberly Greer

www.vitalady.com
mommyatoakwood <csk470@...
michelles website to order protien
supplements please i have changed ip and i have lost alot of my stuff
thanks
Tracey

hey gina, there's some info on the hibernation/hunting modes @
www.gastricbypassfamily.com
what's a few dust bunnies here & there? gotta look out for #1,
hunny. sending out energy wishes!
lori h.

hi julie, decaf tea is a-ok.
lori h.

Hello everyone, I hope all is doing well. Just a quick question. I know
water is best, but can unsweetened ice tea count towards your water consumption?
Take Care,
Julie
Open RYN 4-7-03
351/281/???

Thanks for sharing Kristin! You sound like you are loving life.
Take Care,
Julie
Open RYN 4-7-03
351/281/???

I'm sorry...you're right...I guesss I was a little confused last
night. I have a 6 month supply that I started at 3 months out. Thank
you for clarifying that for me and everyone else.
Amanda

HI! My name is Jan, I live in Iowa. I met with my (hopeful) surgeon last
Friday and I am also very worried about the saggy, baggy skin issue. He told
me that water aerobics is THE BEST thing for this. He also said, as I heard him
say at the seminar, that somebody who is over 300# is NEVER going to look good
in a thong bikini again. Clothes become your friend. He did not say that you
could not lose that skin, but he did tell me that if i have to have the plastic
surgery, it WOULD come out of my pocket. But, the friend of mine who first
"hooked me up" with this surgeon and this clinic, also said that THIS particular
surgeon can set it up so that if you DO have to have the plastic surgery
afterwards for the excess skin, he can arrange it so that insurance WILL cover
it. I will have to talk to him again. THis is one of my major worries too. I
have read so much about the saggy, baggy skin, and how it can become infected
and I've seen the pics on the internet and it is
absolutely disgusting! I think i'd rather stay fat! I told him, I'd rather be
fat than stinky! At 5'8" adn 400 #, yeah, I'm worried about it too and
hopefully there are more posts about your question. Thank alot.
Jan, Iowa, waiting for insurance approval

Dear Carol,
About two years ago, only 65,000 people had this surgery. This year that
figure will top 150,000 and the number of us is growing daily. That's why
the delays are so long.
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, Debbie (waiting for a date) Ilene, Roy, and Ro

Dear Amanda,
The recommended use for Ursidol (generic for Actigall) is two capsules per
day for six months (some doctors keep you on it for up to 18 months). I've
never heard of it being used for so short a time. Just thought I'd mention
this to you.
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, Debbie (waiting for a date) Ilene, Roy, and Ro

HI,
Most people dont know this. But some Burn UNits will do surgury
and take your skin as a live transplant. My cousin lost 200lbs and
has alot of loose skin on her stomach and arms.SInce she had lost
over a 100lbs her Dr. referred her to the Burn Unit at University of
Alabama(UAB).Where they will preform her tummy tuck and use the
eccess skin as a live transplant. So You may want to talk to your
surgeon about this. She didnt know this till her Dr told her about
it. BUt you do have to have your Dr. refer you.

Reminder Reminder from the Calendar of Gastric_Bypass_Family
Lori Anne's WLS!!!!!!
Monday August 25, 2003
9:00 am - 11:00 am
This event does not repeat.
Event Location: albert einstein hospital
City, State, Zip: Bronx, NY

How 'bout it guys how big a deal is the loose skin issue. I mean I am
5'7 430 with a bmi of 68, is my loose skin gonna hang like
drapperies? Or is it all in my head. I am just worried about loosing
my gut but keeping the carrying case and wearing it like a Kilt. Have
any of you gotten your insurance companies to pay for Plastic Surgery
afterward?

that is so sad! I will be praying for you guys. I hope all goes well. Keep me
informed
Angie D

I had ground beef last night for the first time. DH made a meatloaf
and I had about an ounce of it, and I was fine. I had tried a tiny
bit of ground beef about a week and a half ago, and it didn't feel
right going down, so I didn't eat it. I haven't tried steak or
anything yet, and I don't think I will for a while still. Makes me
a little nervous that it might get stuck or something if I don't
chew it well enough, which is very easy to do (or is that not to do?)
Anyway, I think I'll wait until the good chewing thing comes
naturally. :-)
Gina in CA
LAP RNY 07-17-03
324/276.5/130?

I am so glad you are back and getting some things corrected. Keep
us posted on how you are doing and feeling. We love you and we also
missed you!!
Lori - MI
Open RnY 8/1/03

Hi All,
I am about 5-1/2 weeks post-op now, and still feeling tired. When I
get up in the morning by the time I shower, dress, and do hair and
make-up, I need a break. Then after about 20-30 minutes of rest, I
have breakfast, and then I need another break. I try to do things
around the house and stuff, but I find I always need to stop and
take a break. I know I need to be walking every day, and I WANT to
walk, but I just don't have the energy for it. I thought this slow-
mode would have passed by now. Anybody care to comment, please?
Thanks!
Gina in CA
LAP RNY 07-17-03
324/276.5/130?

I'm almost 4 months PostOp and it seems that beef is nearly the only
food that doesn't sit right. I was thinking about trying some Tri-Tip
tonight but I'm not interested in being uncomfortable! So I'm
curious... For those of you who can eat beef, When were you able too?
And those of you who haven't been able to, how far post op are you
and do you plan on keeping it out of your diet completely or are you
planning on trying to work it into your diet again in a a few months?
Thanks!
Amanda
Lap RnY 5/9/03
240/180/140

I have been wondering the same thing Connie. My cats walk all over
me, and jump, climb etc...I will not be able to shut my bedroom door
to keep them out because there is no heatin my room.
I have been gently trying to break them of the habit by nudging them
onto my lap or off to the side, then give them extra attention. Also,
if I lay on my side, they will sit or lay on my hip or side.
See if that helps any...let me know how it goes.
~sun
pre op waiting for surgery date

Hi kim what did your Doctor have to say about your problems you are having.
Mary A. B.
LAP RNY 3/22/03
BMI 65/54
386/313 - 73LBS.

Regina, the strange pain on the left side in your ribs is because that is the
location where most of the surgery was performed. You will get better every
day until it is gone all together.
Mary A. B.
LAP RNY 3/22/03
BMI 65/54
386/313 - 73LBS.

Regina, it sounds to me exactly like I was feeling a few days ago,
and from everything I read here, it's perfectly normal to question
what you are feeling and what you have chosen to do. At times, I
really have strong feelings about it, yet I did have the surgery for
excellent reasons, and I am sure you did, as well.
What I have done that helps me some, is:
I took a piece of cardboard and a bunch of magazines and cut out
whatever I felt drawn to, and made a collage, and put words and
phrases that remind me of WHY I've had this surgery.
I wrote myself a letter pre-surgery with my reasons and priorities,
and printed it out and put it on the wall next to my collage. I talk
to my husband, friends, and frankly, my little doggie as much as I
need to...
...and I try, try, try to pace myself and remind myself I'm healing
right now and it's not a good time to worry about how this will feel
in three or six months.
(((Regina)))hope you feel better. Some of us are going through the
same feelings, if that helps.
B*B,
Ysabeau

Danielle,
That is neat I pass the Radisson every day on my way to work that is a nice
place. You will have to visit the wonderful museums we have here too if you
get a chance the Corning museum of glass is wonderful.

Hi Jill,
Couldn't pass up your post. I am having an open RNY with Dr. Farhan
at Hurley in Flint! I am 2 hours north of Flint near
Grayling/Roscommon.
~sun
pre op waiting for surgery date

A BLANKET ON YOUR TUMMY WHEN YOU LAY DOWN OR EVEN A PILLOW, THAT MIGHT WORK,
BUT FOR ME A LITTLE PRESSURE FELT GOOD ON MY TUMMY BUT I COULDN'T LAY ON MY
STOMACH I HAD TO LAY ON MY BACK FOR A WHILE.
SO TRY THAT
YOUR FRIEND IN SURGERY
CHRISTOPHER CARROLL

Kevin,
Hang in there I know I had to wait about 3 months for my blue cross-blue
shield PPO to approve my surgery they said I wasn't over weight enough but I had
an excellent surgeon who went to bat for me and said look she is only shy of
20 lbs and has high blood pressure high cholesterol and a family history of
diabetes so with his fighting it and my history of weight loss attempts the day
finally came and I thank God for it I too am 29 and was beginning to wonder if
I would ever see my kids grow up and become a grandmother. God willing I am
going to. So don't give up keep working on it.
Take care,
Cindy

I have a strange predicament---one of my cats loves to get on my
tummy whenever I lie down. He purrs and kneads, I scratch and pet
him, and this is our special bonding time. I'm set to have the
surgery on September 17th, and needless to say, he won't be welcome
on my tummy after that. One of my friends says let someone keep him
for several weeks---that won't work---I want him to be at his home.
Any thoughts from cat lovers out there??
Thanks,
Connie
preop, Texas

In a message dated 8/23/2003 5:52:13 PM Eastern Daylight Time,
tiamia65@... writes:
Peace i would love to see some pictures. They are so inspiring to me! Great
job on the weight loss and recovery from the other surgeries. I would love to
have a breast reduction but am going to wait until i loose the weight and see
where i am there. Right now i am a E.
Denise G.
Pre-op
lap rny
nov/dec
245lbs

Thanks Lori! I'm here for you too g/f! I've met some wonderful people on
here, and good thing too.. I need all the support, I can get! And so do they!!
Thanks again!
Hugs and pleasant wishes your way..
((((((((((((((Lori)))))))))))))
Kimberly Greer

I am Six days Post op from my open RNY here in chicago. I am feeling
kind of sad not sure I made the right decision. The program that I
went through requires you to be on liquids for the first two weeks. I
am struggling here with this while mt family eats regular food. I
also am having alot of belching while drinking it is very painful.
Will this go away ? I also have the strangest pains in my ribs and
on the left side of my abdomen. I don't know I am so confused.
Sincerely,
Regina

I live in Clio, MI. It is just 15 miles north of Flint. Dr.
Dabideen from Flint is going to do my open RNY.
Jill
271/pre op

Thanks for the welcome mmgood. I don't like to sit back much and be
quiet. As for my story....I had bypass done on March 26, 2002 at my
highest weight, 353lbs. I am now down to 182lbs as of yesterday. I
had plastic surgery on July 26, 2003 and am still recovering and
loving the results so far. I had my tummy done and a breast
reduction. I have pictures of the old me and the new me if anyone
wants to see them.
Both surgeries weren't easy processes, not at all, but I'd do them
again in a heartbeat tomorrow. The reward is worth all of the pain
and suffering. So much more than being unhappy and hating myself.
The addictiong to food is still with me and I fight it on a daily
basis. They fixed my stomach, but I have to work on my head. I would
be happy to talk to anyone wanting to ask any questions. Feel free
to ask anything.
I do have a question for those of you who had been through the
process and lost a ton of weight, (no pun intended). How do you deal
with the attention now?
Little personal information on me....I am 38, married for 20 years
as of last week, we have 2 daughters, ages 15 and 17, both girls. I
am not working at the moment and enjoy cruising the net while
recovering.
Thanks for letting me talk. :)
Peace

hey peace!! awesome job on the w l!!! do tell about your p s! once
i choose a surgeon, i'm having a medial thigh lift. i hear it's an
ordeal, since the skin is so thin & they sew onto the bones &
tendons to anchor the incisions. ooouch! did they give you some
good meds?
lori h.

Hey Just Me! Glad you posted! Don't just sit back...join in! :-)
We'd love to hear about and learn from your couple years experience.
Gina in CA
LAP RNY 07-17-03
324/276.5/130?

In court, me ex was given increased visitation 2 overnight visits
per week, even though I objected intensely. The commissioner said I
could always come back and appeal it.
My ex lives 45 minutes away from me (and school). He will be getting
Blake from Thursday at 3pm til Monday when he brings him to school.
So he has to drive him those 45 minutes twice (every other week).
Blake's father wants custody of Blake now (that he is old enough to
feed, wipe himself and mow the lawn.)
In court, I expressed my worries and concerns about Blake
spending school nights with his Dad for several reasons. Blake
(especially any child with ADHD) needs consistency, structure and
routine. How structured will the child's life be if he is living in
2 counties and commuting to school 2 days a week? The judge said we
would "try" it and see then review in a few weeks.
I have notified the school and teacher that I want to know how Blake
is progressing on a daily basis. Any note written about Blake's
behavior will most likely not make it home to me. It's been the
most heart wrenching thing I have ever gone through this past year
and 1/2 over this custody/visitation issue. Mark is just waiting
until Blake is old enough to tell the judge who he wants to live
with. He is so much better off with Jim and I, going to the
Christian school, going to church and being raised in a Christian
home with good morals and values.
Blake eats what he chooses there (alot of McDonald's and Hardees)
and gained 12.5# from July 7th to Aug 11th this summer while with his
Father. He spent most of the summer in front of the Playstation
thing playing violent video games (Medal Of Honor; Army Men of valor
etc). I want what's best for Blake. Absolutely without a doubt. And
without a doubt, I feel it's with Jim and I.
First I had the ADHD to learn about and learn to deal with, now at
every turn, there's his Father wishing he were a full time Father to
him. Instead, Jim is there for him and that really eats at Mark. He
has told me that he won't rest until Blake is living with him. I
told him if he wanted to "share" custody, all he had to do was move
here. He's moved 9 times in 12 years, so what's one more?
I will be keeping a daily log/diary of Blake's academic performance
and behavior. He is trying to play football and practice isn't
over until 8pm usually. Couple that with a long drive to Ashland then
getting up an hour earlier to make it back here to school, Blake
will be fairly tired and may even fall asleep in class. Anything of
this sort, I want to know about it.
I have a letter from Blakes' teacher that she emailed me
yesterday. If I can show the judge these types of emails, I am most
certain he SHOULD reverse this decision in 4-6 weeks.
Let me know what you think!
:)
Sheila
=======================================
Shelia,
Honestly today was not Blake's best day. He was unable to
concentrate on his class work and did not finish any of his work
that we did in class. We took our Spelling test today and Blake got
an eighty (80%) on his. He will be able to re-take his test which
would be on Monday. However I found his test in his desk, he was to
bring it home and get it signed by his parent and return it on
Monday. Since he left his I will let him redo his test on Tuesday
this time.
Blake's behavior was different also, I asked if he had taken his
medication and he replied that he did not know. It would have been
beneficial if he had taken before he arrived at school. His
grandfather picked him up after school and he did ask how
Blake did at school. I told him that he was not able to do his work
and that he did not know if he had taken his meds.
I will keep you and yours in my prayers.
Mrs. A

Ok, here goes....I am new to this group but not new to the weight
loss thing. I am finding all of the messages overwhelming I must
admit, but dealing with them. It is nice to finally hear some people
going thru the same things I have been going thru for the last couple
of years.
I will just sit back and keep quiet for now....thanks for letting me
read your posts.
Peace

Billy Blanks Taebo tapes
(kinda of an advertisement here, but it really works and I know
how "vain" we all are after our weight loss! lol
I hope I haven't broken any rules, if so, I apologize in advance!
This is a great workout!!
I don't know if any of you are familiar with TAEBO workouts (THEY
ARE AWESOME) and really work to stop jiggly fat (tighten up muscles
beneath the jiggly skin so it doesn't jiggle as much!).
I have some tapes that I am selling to friends and family that I am
asking $7.00 each for. (I paid $60 for a 4 tape set) plus
actual S&H to where you live! (I do accept PayPal for immediate
shipment).
just email me and let me know!
angel_of_mercy_911@...
Sheila
:)

Dear Judy,
I wish you all the luck in the world. I am not quite as old as you are but I
have a long list of health issures and I am also in a wheelchair. I am 59
years old, I had a starting weight of 386 with a BMI of 65, I was a diabetic, I
have an aorta annesrysm, irregular heartbeat and high blood pressure. I had
a LAP on March 22, 2003. I have NOT had any adverse effects of the surgery.
I was in the hospital 2 day and had a small amount of pain. Two weeks after
the surgery I could not even tell that I had surgery except for an occasional
twing in the left side where most of the surgery was done. I have lost 73
pounds since March and considering that I am in a wheelchair and not very active
I
think that is pretty good. I am no longer diabetic, my blood pressure is in
control and I no longer take any medication except for one half of a heart pill
for the irregular heartbeat. I was litterally dying. I would encourage anyone
to go for it. It is well worth it. Good luck and God Bless You!!
Mary A. B.
LAP RNY 3/22/03
BMI 65/54
386/313 - 73LBS.

Lori Anne,
Will definately keep you in my prayers :) The positive attitude definately makes
a difference :) Good luck !!!
Ruth
Open RNY Dr Bruce Thayer
386/206/???
Oct 29,2002
Grimmlah1@... wrote:
Hi Everyone
I called the hospital yesterday and they told me to report there at 6:30 AM
so I figure my surgery is set for about 8 AM or 8:30 AM on Monday, August 25,
2003. My bosses at my job have been great and loving and supportive of me
taking this step and I am sure glad I told them. They said very soon I will be
slinking into the office and I am already quite a character now LOL. I am still
waiting for my food processor though I ordered an ultimate chopper with the
blender attachment and I am praying that it arrives by the time I get home from
the hospital which should be this Wednesday.
So just one more day stands in between my date with destiny and I am full
steam ahead. I am amazingly without fear and quite calm about it and I put it
all into my faith in the Lord and his powerful calming influence on my life. I
am 100% positive that this operation is in his will for my life because he
led me to it and held my hand every step of the way and is still right by my
side. I go into surgery with the best of prayers and hope and positive thinking
and with all the information that I have received from you all. I feel
spiritually prepared and mentally prepared for the after effects. So I have
said a
special prayer for everyone having surgery this month and all those who are
now living the life of a WLS person. As soon as I can type I will let you know
how the hospital part went. I have so many people coming to visit me on
Tuesday geesh I know I won't get any rest but I will be happy to see everyone
and
no matter what I love to have fun I just hope they don't make me laugh. I am
going to wear my hair in two big baby girl pony tails after surgery and they
will get a kick out of that LOL.
Good Luck and God Bless you all :)
Many Hugs
Lori Anne
pre-op Lap RNY
8/25/03 WOW soon to type post op 8/25/03 AWESOME DUDES!!!!!

Beth,
I still have a hard time getting everything in, I did find a protien bar that
actually only has 1g of sugar and 21 g or protien that actaully tastes pretty
good. It is called Carb wise and I found it at Walmart. I can only eat a half
of one at a time, but it definately helps when I think I want something sweet.
Great job with the loss, you are doing awesome !!! Isn't it great to be wearing
a size 16 again .. I haven't been in a 16 since jr high, so I definately know
that feeling :)
Take care
Ruth
386/206/???
Open RNY Dr Bruce Thayer
Oct 29,2002
glssblwrlady <glssblwrlady@...
Hello everyone,
It has been a long time since I have posted. I do read some of the
posts, not all of them, there are soooooo many. I just wanted to
share how things are going with me. It certainly has not been easy,
but I survive every day. The hardest things still are eating enough
food and also drinking enough water. The protein is tough getting
in. I have tried many protein shakes, they all suck, lol. I have
tried to fix them up a little here and there, but that smell and
taste still makes me naucious, and I cant handle that. I have tried
some protein bars, they are a little better, but I usually cant eat
a whole one at a time. I actually have gotten sick only one time,
because I ate too much and too fast, that felt pretty bad. A few
times I have been close to it, and that feels just about as bad as
throwing up. Sometimes I swear I will never eat again in my life,
lol. I was also very scared of getting sick from sugar before, and I
have tried little bites here and there when I want something sweet,
and I am glad to say that I have done fine so far. I know I can
never eat a whole piece of cake or anything like that, but
occasionally that little bite helps alot, with the head hunger. I
can pretty much eat anything I want, of course it is barely nothing
when I eat, but I am glad I am to that point. Bread is very hard to
eat, so I dont usually try that very often, besides, I know the
carbs are bad anyway.
Now, for the best part!!! I have lost 61 pounds!!!! I now weigh
205 pounds, it has been about 13 years since I have been that
weight!! I also am now in a size 16 jeans!!!!!!!!!!! It has finally
come to the point of people who havent seen me in a few months
saying "WOW" when they see me, so it is definitely noticeable to
others. That is such a good feeling. I know the eating part will
get easier eventually, it has gotten a little easier since the
beginn