Gastric Bypass

Hi Keri,
I have been researching Medicare coverage myself since thats the only
coverage I have. They pay 80% and you pay 20% unless you have other
coverage.
I found the following National Coverage Determination on Gastric
Bypass at Centers for Medicare & Medical Services website:
NCD for Gastric Bypass Surgery for Obesity (Effective for services
performed on or after October 1, 1979) (35-40)
Publication Number
6
Manual Section Number
35-40
Effective Date of this Version
10/1/1979
Benefit Category
Physicians' Services
Note: This may not be an exhaustive list of all applicable Medicare
benefit categories for this item or service.
Coverage Topic
Hospital Care (Inpatient)
Item/Service Description
Gastric bypass surgery, which is a variation of the
gastrojejunostomy, is performed for patients with extreme obesity.
Indications and Limitations of Coverage
Gastric bypass surgery for extreme obesity is covered under the
program if (1) it is medically appropriate for the individual to have
such surgery; and (2) the surgery is to correct an illness which
caused the obesity or was aggravated by the obesity.
I spoke with Medicare on the phone today and you must meet those 2
requirements and there is no pre-approval. So more or less you have
the surgery and Dr. and Hospital will file claims afterward. You have
to meet your Doctors Guidelines before the surgery will be done. I
also know that you have to be at least 100 lbs. overweight and have
blood tests, etc. done beforehand.
Also you can't just choose your own Dr. The Dr. has to accept
Medicare. I researched WLS and chose 2 surgeons that were highly
recommended in my area only to find out that they do not accept
Medicare. Not to many Bariatric Surgeons accept Medicare.
I am waiting on appointment with a surgeon that does accept Medicare
and I will know more afterwards.
I wish you luck on your journey. Hope this helps you.
Chris
Pre-op
280/ /150

Hi everyone
I have an extra Walk Away the Pounds 3 mile super fat burning DVD by Leslie
Sansone. Its never been opened. If anyone would like it I would be happy to
pass it on for the cost of shipping to whereever you live - it shouldnt cost
more than about $3.00. First come first serve :)
~ami~
Lap RNY 5-13-03
261/211.5/130

I found this really good drink at costco but i need to make sure it
is ok for drinking . It is called diet botanical ice . No soduim, no
sugar not fat it is flavored water withsplenda and is so easy to
drink . am i hurting myself i dont know much about splenda..
thanks
Peggy
322 waiting

I have Medicare and I did not have to do anything. No pre approval or
nothing and they paid 80% and my coinsurance paid the other 20% and I did not
have
to pay anything out of pocket.
Mary A. B.
LAP RNY 3/22/03
BMI 65/54
386/312 - 74 LBS.

Hi Mel,
Congratulations on 85 pounds gone forever!!! Keep up the good job. I
can't wait to join you on the losing side.
Chris
Preop
280/ /150

I hit 85 pounds gone today!!!!! The cool thing is I am only 4 pounds from
200. This am I weighed 204. I can't wait to get below 200. This has been
the best 4 months of my life. I can't believe the transformation. I had to
share because I was so excited.
Mel
Open RNY May2,2003
289/204/150
85 pounds gone!!!!!!!!!!!!

Dose anyone have information on what Medicare insurance requires to have the
surgery???
anything would be appreciated.
thanks
kerri k.
354 pre op

I have not had my surgery yet, but it seems that everyone who has had
it has had an annoying pain on their left side. My thought is that
every one must end up with this pain. The comments on here have been
that your body is trying to recuperate and this is just one of the
steps. Hope I helped.
Lizanne
Maryland

Here's my experience (per my personal journey and my surgeon's advice):
1. I haven't lost that much but my doctor has advised that anyone over 300
pounds will have issues with loose skin in areas. If you are below 300 pounds,
it's possible that you will not have skin issues. He also says that many people
are content even without plastic surgery afterwards. As for increasing skin's
elasticity, my nutritionist and my personal trainer drinking as much water as
possible. Hydrated skin is supple skin. Weight training will also help in
building muscle mass which may help to fill some of the trouble spots as well.
2. The only PERMANENT no-no forever per my surgeon is fresh coconut (straight
from the nut). Red meat and pork are discouraged (but not forbidden) for 6
months. Sugar and high fat foods are discouraged as well as it can possibly
lead to weight gain, dumping, etc. but if you can tolerate them and are ok with
the potential consequences, then you are physically able to eat them.
3. Your tolerance for alcohol may be reduced after surgery. Some surgeons
forbid alcohol consumption forever. Mine recommends waiting for 6 months. For
me, unless it's a special occasion, those drinks are just empty calories that I
don't really need ... unless of course it's a white russian with extra milk
(just for the protein of course). Just kidding! :-P
Hope that helps!
Diana

Diana,
Thank you so much. Your message was not goofy at all, just exactly
what I needed to hear. I think I was just having one of those
days. Usually, I'm the most positive person, but I just felt down
or felt a little like a failure today. You're right, why am I
weighing myself daily to just be depressed? I need to stop it. As
for my relationship with food, you're right there too, it has taken
years to get where I was. I think I'm just being hard on myself.
I'm still not back to work yet and I'm slightly bored. There's only
so much you can do while everyone else is in work...go figure! If I
think about it, the past 4 weeks I have been eating pretty good. I
think I took the nutritionists meaning of eating anything a little
to far. Just had the wrong snacks a few times this week and was
beating myself up about it. I need to move on.
Thanks again and when the going gets tough, I need to be a bit more
positive and remember that I am HUMAN.
Thanks for the pep talk,
Beth
07/18/03
339/294/150
Boston, MA

Hi, Beth!
Don't be too hard on yourself, first off. You are restructuring your ENTIRE
relationship with food. You've grown and nurtured that relationship for years.
Changing your habits are going to take work and commitment but they are not
going to happen in one day. You are going to try and sometimes succeed and
sometimes fail. Look at each new day as the opportunity to start over. Try to
make good choices for just that day ... or that hour ... or that minute. Let
the future be the future. I find it much easier to manage my eating that way.
I'm now almost 10 weeks post-op and it's starting to become more second nature.
Every once in a while, offer yourself a treat ... for a job well done. I
honestly believe that the harder we fight food demons with denial, sometimes
they grow to insurmountable proportions. So a little reward of the things you
enjoy will do you good.
As for the battle of the scale and the numbers, I made a post about a week ago
about my "personal plateau". Keep a healthy perspective on the scale. It
doesn't always tell the whole story. Do your clothes fit better? Do you feel
better? I would feel the same way as you if I owned a scale and I weighed daily
and it didn't move. That's why I don't own a scale. :-) I beat myself up
enough without added motivation.
Another thought ... and this one may be a kind of goofy one for some ... is that
I honestly believe if we constantly dwell on the negative, then that negative
energy builds and it thwarts our progress. Instead of dwelling that the surgery
might not work or that you will be a failure, instead expend positive energy
believing and seeing in your mind, your changing body ... try to visualize in
detail your face getting slimmer, your bones showing through, your clothes
falling off. Maximize the positive thoughts! With faith, all things are
possible. :-)
Hope none of this sounded too preachy/smarmy/silly/goofy/crazy ...
Hugs,
Diana

Hiya Lori Anne,
I am sorry I missed telling you good luck. But I was thinking about ya. I am so
glad to see you home and in such great spirits. Have a great one
Pam C
New Orleans
Sept. 8th (with fingers crossed)

Hi Lori Anne,
Glad that your surgery went so well. Congrats on being on the losing side. I
just can't wait to get there. I've only just begun my journey. You are such an
inspiration to me. Hope my surgery goes as well as yours.
Chris
preop/280
scheduled for surgeon consult

Thanks to all of you that responded to my post. It's just so
wonderful having others to share with. Sometimes I just read the
posts and I feel calmer knowing there are others like me! You guys
are great. P.S. I am 33 years old & live in Chico, California.
Angie H.
9/10/3
300

Hi all,
I haven't posted for awhile, but I have been reading all your post
and I could use your help. I'm 6 weeks out tomorrow and I've lost
45 pounds, which I am happy about but I'm frustrated at the same
time. I have 2 issues. I'm afraid I'm slipping back into my old
eating habits. Yes, I have a portion controlled stomach, but I find
myself snacking on cheese-its, smart popcorn and other poor
choices. I'm not eating a ton by any means but this frightens me
because I'm making bad choices now only 6 weeks after surgery.
Plus, I thought the dietician groups I have to attend at the WLS
Center only once a month for 3 months (this cost me $800.00) would
review how to eat better. It took me 36 years to get to 339 pounds,
how are we suppose to retrain our brains to eat better and pick
better choices if I don't really have a support group to go too. I
need to hear from others who have dealt with this, is anyone going
through this or has gone through it? How did you deal with making
better choices when it came to food?
The other thing is I'm weighing myself daily and when the scale
doesn't move I'm frustrated. For exercise I swim daily for about 2
hours, but I'm wondering if walking would be better. I don't want
to hit a plateau so early on. I want to lose, lose, lose this
weight.
Thanks!
Beth
07/18/03
339/294/150
Boston, MA

Hello Beautiful people
I am back from surgery my Lap RNY that was done on 8/25/03 and I am home and
feeling absolutely great :) My lap surgery was about 3 and a half hours and I
have no scars and just tiny little holes covered with surgi strips. My
surgeon and his staff did not put the tube or the catheter on me until I was
deep
asleep within the anesthesia. When I woke up later on that day I was in the
ICU step down clinic on a comfy bed with a pain med and fluids through a iv. I
hardly ever hit the pain button because I only felt a mild ache nothing too
big. I received my room later on that evening and I was out of the bed the next
day walking very slowly and I asked for my spirometer and totally floored my
surgeons staff who were very impressed that I even knew about it. I was not
and am not hungry in the slightest. On Tuesday my coworkers and family and
friends came by to visit. I received some pretty nice stuff LOL flowers cards
doll, teddy bears oodles and I loved everything. I had my first bm earlier
today while still at the hospital. My dad went out to get my meds something for
the gas get a rumble in the jungle everynow and again LOL. I had a roommate
from hell a 91 year old lady and that is another adventure (she kept thinking
that I was her in room nurse LOL) Luckily she was transferred to a nursing home
the next day and my new roomie had open RNY so she was out of it. I was back
on my feet day two after surgery doing my hair and makeup and in great spirits
the nurses were awed with me LOL and I talked on the phone something awful my
friends said hard to believe you had surgery at all the energy you've got
LOL.
The only thing that was gross was the barium test and this blue dye they made
me drink other than that everything else was a breeze. Oh and when my
doctor's assistant took out my drain it was so freaky it felt like a slinky
coming
out of me he pulled it out quick and it did hurt a bit I yelped out loud and he
said I am the only person who actually felt it LOL yeah well there is always
a first time for something LOL. I am home and full of energy and pep and
drinking my wylers decaff green tea and peach sugar free drink. It tastes so
good
I highly recommend it. I am on the clear liquids for a week or two and my
next appointment is in two weeks with my surgeon. I want to thank you all for
all your support and prayers and I am here today to tell you I am a survivor
and doing great:)
Lori Anne
Post-op 8/25/03 finally a loser :)
274/270/135

Hello all:
I had the surgery a little over 2 weeks ago and have the
folllowing questions:
1. For those who have lost 100+ lbs-are you having problems
with extra skin? Any tips on how to increase the elasticity in the
skin? I cannot afford plastic surgery.
2. Dietary restrictions such as red meat and sugar-is that
temporary or permanent?
3. Alcohol-anyone had any problems/
Thanks in advance for your advice.
Angel
278/254/135
lap rny 8/12/03

You can write a letter to your insurance. Explaining what you have been thru. Or
you can use the form in the back of Weight Loss Surgery Guidebook by Barbara
Thompson. The book is great. I am ready for my insurance to denied me. I have
called both insurance for the pass two weeks and two of them said they would pay
for it as soon as my surgeon set a date. I know it will problemly be denied but
I have my letter ready to go in case.
Joyce
dixiecrow@... wrote:
I'm not sure how to feel about this other than being very hurt and
disappointed that my insurance did not give me an approval on the surgery. What
they
(Cigna PPO) are requesting is for me to complete
26 weeks of a physician monitored weight loss program. At the end of
that time, they would review my information again.
I supplied them with over 20 years worth of dieting history. I even had my
weigh in information from weight watchers the last time I had joined in
2001-2002. I just don't see how this 26 weeks is going to change anything. My
BMI
is 51.
Any ideas on what my next move is? Do any of you have experience with
appealing this process? Any tips?
TIA
Angela

I'm not sure how to feel about this other than being very hurt and
disappointed that my insurance did not give me an approval on the surgery. What
they
(Cigna PPO) are requesting is for me to complete
26 weeks of a physician monitored weight loss program. At the end of
that time, they would review my information again.
I supplied them with over 20 years worth of dieting history. I even had my
weigh in information from weight watchers the last time I had joined in
2001-2002. I just don't see how this 26 weeks is going to change anything. My
BMI
is 51.
Any ideas on what my next move is? Do any of you have experience with
appealing this process? Any tips?
TIA
Angela

Hiya everyone, especially the newbies here!
I am Katie, but please call me Seta. I am 26 years old and went into surgery
on March 27th of this year weight approximately 305 lbs. Now at my 5th month
anniversary I am 74 lbs lighter, and weighting 231 lbs. I am proud of
myself. But it takes time, persistance, patience, and work. Don't think you
don't
have to work (and I am not a "poster child" for that word or much of the
above. I've had my problems, and while I do not like to call it a "failure" -
yeah, it is (but constructive criticism and help and self determination gets one
out of that!) Be well on your journeys! My AIM is PrincessandHope if you ever
wish to talk, and my AOL address is PrincessandHope@... if you ever wish
to speak that way. DO NOT SIGN ME UP FOR SPAM (just a friendly reminder to
those who would.) Thanks! Take care, much love and be well - all of you, even
the "oldies"!
~ Seta/Katie

In a message dated 8/28/03 1:05:27 PM Eastern Daylight Time,

Michelle, this surgery has saved my life. I am 59 years old and would do it
over in a minute. I have always been a chocoholic [spelling] It has been 5
months since my surgery and it does not phase me that I can't have sweets. I
know that they will make me sick and that is all it takes for me to stay away
from them.
Mary A. B.
LAP RNY 3/22/03
BMI 65/54
386/313 - 73LBS.

That is so great!! Im so happy for you!
Pamela
11/19/02
127 lbs gone!!
Miami

Awesome news, girlie! Way to fight the fight and win. I'll keep you in my
thoughts and prayers.
Hugs,
Diana

I totally agree with you, Kristin, and that's one of the things I really
stressed when I spoke at the seminar on Tuesday. That it is soooooooooo
important to get to know your surgeon, his support team, and even better some of
his honest-to-goodness patients. Because this is a lifetime commitment, you
need to be comfortable with your surgeon and his team because it's them that
will get you through this and make it an easier experience.

Hi Treann,
My name is Vicky. I haven't posted in a while but I know how you
feel. I was denied 3 times by my HMO. Here's what I wish I had
known:
1. You can get the guidelines for the requirements for Gastric
Bypass surgery. Call BCBS and ask them to fax you the guidelines.
That way you will know EXACTLY what they require to be eligible for
the surgery!
Once you have the guidelines make sure you address each issue they
require. For example, my insurance requires that I have 6 months of
a multi-disciplinary diet including a medical doctor, a nutritionist,
exercise and a psychologist. They require hand written doctors notes
with weights and so on. If you don't have that ask your doctor is
he/she will create it for you (or sign it if you create it!).
If you don't qualify now then you might have to take 6 months and do
what they are asking before they will approve you.
2. If you don't have 6 months (I am on Cobra and my Cobra expires
soon) then just keep appealing and fighting. I appealed all the
appeals through the insurance (just know that you probably have no
chance if you don't meet their criteria) and then when all their
appeals are done you can appeal to the state insurance board where
you have a 50-50 chance of actually being heard and getting the
surgery.
GOOD LUCK and email me if you have questions at any time :)
Vicky

Dear Ewayne,
So sorry to hear about your wife's complications. A few of my friends have
experienced the same exact thing. If the endoscopy has stretched her stoma
again and that's not helping, did she have reflux or irritable bowel
syndrome pre-surgery? If so, it could still be there (somewhat) and maybe a
prescription for Nexium would help... just a suggestion. Please tell her I
wish her the best of 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, Debbie (10/14/03) Ilene, Roy, and Ro

I know that we're not supposed to be weighing ourselves, but it's a
20year habit that's difficult to break! Also, because I could not
lose weight pre-op, no matter what diet plan I followed, it's hard to
wait for office visits with my surgeon.
I will be 4 weeks post-op tomorrow; I officially lost 18.7 lbs the
1st 2 weeks; but my scale hasn't budged since!!!! I would expect a
plateau at 3+ months out, but 2 WEEKS?!?!?! Gawd, I hope that my
metabolism hasn't adapted after going thru the Open RNY...
I live in am area of the country where the climate is suffocating
this time of year; I can not take walks outside due to other health
problems. I've tried walking the local mall, but I tire very easily.
I am also having difficulty getting in the tons of water, but I am
not dehydrated.
Any ideas why the plateau? I am very depressed, but know that I would
get over that as soon as the scale continued it's downward spiral...
TIA.

Oh My Gd!
All your prayers and good wishes and support and encouragement and
everything else has paid off!
THANK YOU!!!
The State Insurance Commission has found in my favor against
Neighborhood! I WON!!!
It is only a preliminary finding and they still have 10 days to
change their minds and then Neighborhood has the option to appeal the
decision and take it to the appeals court but for the first time
since this whole thing started I have seen a glimmer of hope!
THANK YOU all SO MUCH for everything. It has been because of you
guys that I kept fighting and that I may actually have a chance of
getting my surgery. You guys are the best! Gd bless each and every
one of you!!!
Love you all!
Vicky

Hey Cheryl
Your right the Shenandoah Valley is one of the most beautiful places on earth. I
use to visit twice a month in the summer. We would spend the weekend with my
great grandmother. Most of my family from their have passed away. I think there
might be a few left. The Hensley and Lam clan.
It is great you have lost 34lbs. I will be on the losing side soon. It would be
great to keep in touch.
Have a great one
Pam C
New Orleans
pre-op
Sept 8th
Cheryl Risley <cherylrisley@...
Hi, My name is Cheryl and I live in the beautiful shenandoah valley
of Virginia. I had Gastric By-Pass surgery done in Richmond, VA on
July 22nd (the day after my birthday!). It's been just over a month
and I have lost 34 pounds.
I am feeling really well and have had very few problems. I have
dumped twice and understand what I did wrong, but am trying to avoid
doing it again. I agree with the one post that said that the biggest
thing the miss is not being able to chug a glass of water. I used to
be a huge water drinker. I could chug a 32 oz glass of water. Now
it feels so weird to only be able to take a sip. If I drink too
fast, I feel terrible. So I am learning a whole new process to eat
and drink.
If there are any more people in the Shenandoah Valley of VA, please
answer me

I just want to give my 2 cents... before my surgery i met a person who had
already undergone surgery at work. they were extremely sick and their
gallbladder clip fell off... she also told me the woman in her room died day 2
of surgery... later on i read about this doctor in tampa who has major lawsuits
and has had many patients die from the wls. It was her doctor. I still had my
surgery, her doctor wasnt my doctor and i did alot of research to find a good
one and even met 100 of his patients. Not all stories were good but on the most
part they were. One common denomiator was that he cared about the wellbeing of
his patients. None of the events of his patients medical problems were his
fault, heart attacks... stuff like that. after my surgery i seen the woman i
mentioned earlier, she said to me she wished she had researched her doctor
better like i did. she just jumped in and had her surgery within 2 months of
seeing the doc. it took me 2 years to get into my doc to have the surgery,
he had a waiting list. I am post op 16 months, doing great and happier than
ever. It was really scarry but just do your research and that will make all of
the difference. smiles.
wlslori <wlslori@...
introspection, yes people die from
wls, it's a risk, so is driving a car, choking from eating, falling
down in the bathtub, etc etc. there are no guarantees in this life.
best of luck.
lori h.

sorry i havent posted in a while, but i have been trying to get all
of my stuff taken care of for pre-approval. I just got told
yesterday by BCBS of TN that I was denied for surgery. I have no
Idea where to start with the appeal process. they were so snotty on
the phone with me almost like they were mocking me. If any of you
want to offer some advice I would greatly appreciate it.
Thanks,
Treann

welcome aboard, cheryl. great job on the 34 lbs!
lori h.
16 grateful months out in the magic city

Hi, My name is Cheryl and I live in the beautiful shenandoah valley
of Virginia. I had Gastric By-Pass surgery done in Richmond, VA on
July 22nd (the day after my birthday!). It's been just over a month
and I have lost 34 pounds.
I am feeling really well and have had very few problems. I have
dumped twice and understand what I did wrong, but am trying to avoid
doing it again. I agree with the one post that said that the biggest
thing the miss is not being able to chug a glass of water. I used to
be a huge water drinker. I could chug a 32 oz glass of water. Now
it feels so weird to only be able to take a sip. If I drink too
fast, I feel terrible. So I am learning a whole new process to eat
and drink.
If there are any more people in the Shenandoah Valley of VA, please
answer me

Hey everyone,
I am doing well!!!! 5 weeks out and 40 pounds gone!!! YAYAYAY!!
I did have a quick question though. I am having a slight pain on the
left side under my rib cage.. it's not sharp.. just annoying. Anyone
else? I know it's not my gall bladder... wrong side of the body.. Any
clues??
Thanks,
Trish

hi christine, i have a 3 month post-op friend w/ chronic health issues
who does a lot of swimming & is doing great, better every day!
lori h.

congrats pam c!!!
lori h.

what?! can you get another doc in there to help her? they're working
on her stricture, there has to be a solution to the constant dry
heaves, other than constant sedation.
lori h.

woohoo, seta! way to go, & way to go on backing back "on the wagon".
it happens to all of us.
lori h.

hi michele, don't get me started on the benefits of wls. there's so
much more to life than food, it's possible to enjoy LIFE, vibrantly &
passionately.
& yes we're all different when it comes to dumping, (it hasn't been
easy or smooth) but i wouldn't trade my operation for all the riches
in the world. best of luck & pls keep us posted:-)
lori h.
16 grateful months out

hi mindy. continue researching & introspection, yes people die from
wls, it's a risk, so is driving a car, choking from eating, falling
down in the bathtub, etc etc. there are no guarantees in this life.
best of luck.
lori h.

Hi,
I took my nightgown, slippers, a robe, shampoo and conditioner,
toothbrush/toothpaste. I forgot my blowdryer, but I ended up just
putting my hair up in a clip. I never wore my robe, slippers or
nightgown. Some suggest bringing your own pillow in case of a long
stay! Don't forget to wear comfy clothes to the hospital on surgery
day. You want to have something that doesnt bother your incisions
when you go home!
Michelle

hi pam, congrats on the date and its on my bday - i'll be thinking about
you. who is doing the surgery?
Tanya
visit our website
www.geocities.com/tanyarn96/countryside.html

Hi all, I am a newbie and have a question. I have deceided to have
Gastric RNY hoping that weight loss will help with chronic pain. I
have Ehlers Danlos Syndrome Type 3 and Fibromyalgia. I have been in
daily pain most of my life and have not been able to exercise and the
pounds keep coming on. It's getting to the point that I can barely
walk because of my excess weight on my unstable, loose hip, knee and
ankle joints. I have Oestoarthritis, Plantar Fascitis, heel spurs,
hip dyspalsia just to name a few of my problems. My question is: Has
anyone else had WLS that have these similar problems? And if so, is
there a significant decrease in pain after the weight comes off?
Chris
Marietta, GA
preop/280 scheduled for surgeon consult

Hey Mary
Try these.
www.vitalady.com
www.wlssuccess.com
www.fitday.com
Pam C
New Orleans
maryooch7 <maryooch7@...
Hi everyone, do any of you know of a website where I can get
vitamins etc. in individual, daily packets? Thanks.
Mary

Hey Mary,
Hear are a few things I have heard of so far.
Chap Stick
Non skid slip on slippers
Robe
Lose under ware.
you need a set of clothes to go home in.
Moist towelettes
One person said take tongs so you can wipe.
One person even said take a small fan (clip on type)
CD player and magazines.
I hope this is some help.
Pam C
maryooch7 <maryooch7@...
In Message # 27042, the member asked what to take to the hospital.
Would someone please respond. Some of us would like to know. Thanks
so much. Mary

Hiya
I am so happy to say I have a surgery date. Sept 8th 7:30am at East Jefferson.
Now I got to get through the blood test and the EKG and x-rays with no problem.
I am scared to be happy...LOL (been there before) I go do all the tests on Sept
2nd.
I have gained 2lbs I guess because I have quit smoking. He tied to tell me I
would have to lose 5 to 7lbs before surgery. I stopped him right there (I don't
know where I found my back bone) I told him I have done everything he ask of me.
I am tired of jumping through the hoops and if I have to jump one more time "I
don't want the surgery" He said but it will make the surgery easier on me. I
said I will try to lose some of the weight. Next thing I have a surgery date and
date for the pre-surgery tests. Now thinking about what I did...I hope I did not
piss the surgeon off. Not good.....Nah he won't do anything like that he is a
great guy.
I really want to do the happy dance. But I have been this close before and don't
want to jinx anything
Have A Great One
Pam C
New Orleans
pre-op

Hi everyone, do any of you know of a website where I can get
vitamins etc. in individual, daily packets? Thanks.
Mary

She is still fighting nausea.
I'm back with an update on my wife. She had her surgery on 14 July. She was
readmitted Saturday the 23 Aug. For the second time for severe nausea. They
stretched her esophagus for the second time, but to no avail. She still has
the nausea. Their NEW ideal is to treat her by giving her Velum (the nerve
medicine) every few hours so that will keep her sedated. They want to give her
body a break and see if it will interrupt the nausea. Basically the way I
understand it is they are going to keep her asleep for about 2 days. Supposedly
this will trick her body back into thinking everything is okay. Sounds absurd,
but right now they have no other reasons as to why she is have the sever
nausea. My wife has said over and over that she wishes she could take it back.
I
just keep hoping and praying that it will pass and she will start to fill
better. She has lost 50 pounds but at this point she does not even want to
discuss that. When she is awake she can't go more than 5 minutes without having
dry heaves. Every now and then she actually spits up some potassium, but that
is about it. I can tell she is so terribly miserable. Nobody could predict
how the surgery would effect her body. It seems right now nobody has a
solution. My wife thinks she is in the 1% of the people that die as a result of
the
surgery. I keep watching the doctors, and at this point they don't seem to
worried. When I see them starting to get worried that's when I know we are
going
to have to consider drastic measures. From all the research that I have been
able to find this problem has no solution. Its definitely nothing she is
eating. They looked at her surgery and everything looks really good there. The
only thing they have found is the esophagus but it really does not make sense
to any one why that would be causing the nausea. Thanks for listening and
letting me get it off my heart. Thanks to everyone who has shared their
experiences. This surgery is very successful for some people, the only draw
back is
nobody can guarantee you which category you will fall into.
Sincerely,
Tammy's Husband

In Message # 27042, the member asked what to take to the hospital.
Would someone please respond. Some of us would like to know. Thanks
so much. Mary

Pam you said it right about your not alone.Your day will come and it
will be worth it at the end.Take care and I'll keep you in my
prayers for a faster answer.God bless a friend debkroll of Iowa.Hang
in there and yes scream if you have to.Everyone here under
stands.

Hey, Joyce
This is one subject I can help with. I have been waiting for the longest to have
my surgery. I have jumped through every hoop my surgeon put me through. He gave
me a date of August 25th. Well that did not pan out. I almost let this take over
my whole life. What ever you do you must keep a positive attitude about
yourself. When others would tell me "it will work out" I wanted to scream. I
felt like I was the only one going through these feelings. But don't fret, You
and I are not alone. I Just tell myself "I am well worth the wait." AND YOU ARE
WORTH THE WAIT TOO!!!
Have A Great One
Pam C
New Orleans
pre-op
Joy Muns <joy_ms@...
I am sorry for writing the crying in Michigan. I shouldn't of wrote it. I know
alot of other people out there has worse problems than I have. I feel like I
can't take another bad call. Did any one feel that way. Is it natural? I know
with Gods help I will have this surgery. He is the only one who really knows how
bad I need and want it. My doctor only does this surgery up to the age of 55 and
I just turned 50.
Joyce
waiting for a date

Angie,
I just wanted to clarify. What I meant by food taking the place of
God is this: If you need solace and peace and run to anything whether
it be food, shopping, sex, music, or even sleep for that matter,
instead of falling to your knees, that is a god to you. This being
said, I think even if you have a full spiritual life and you still
run to the periferals and not the Lord then you have some idols.
P.S. not that it is a big deal but I don't believe in
dispensationalism. I think it was a dispensed once and for all and
Christ' work was part of it from the get go. But that's ok if you
hold to that. :)

Hey ya,
I knew you could do it. Those were tears of joy. See ya tomorrow.
Pam C
New Orleans
pre-op
imptress <imptress@...
So there I am at the informational seminar for my doctor's office and it's my
turn to speak. I start talking about my experience and guess what happens. I
get all choked up and tears are welling in my eyes. ~laughs~ I just told them
that I'm an emotional girl. I even plugged our group here as a GREAT source of
support for pre-ops and post-ops. It felt really good to be able to help people
understand and make decisions about WLS. It's cool to be an advocate. :-)
Thanks to everyone who thought of me and/or wished me luck.
Hugs,
Diana

Hiya everyone,
74 lbs are lost!!!
I am so grateful!
I am getting back on the plan, as I told earlier I was having some problems.
Just some behaviour modifications must still take place, but I am working on
that.
Take care!
Much love!
Be well!
I hope everyone is well who is newly Post Op - I was gone for the past few
days.
~ Katie/Seta

I am sorry for writing the crying in Michigan. I shouldn't of wrote it. I know
alot of other people out there has worse problems than I have. I feel like I
can't take another bad call. Did any one feel that way. Is it natural? I know
with Gods help I will have this surgery. He is the only one who really knows how
bad I need and want it. My doctor only does this surgery up to the age of 55 and
I just turned 50.
Joyce
waiting for a date

Having the insurance approval is good, BUT as a couple of us have said---if
it isnt the right timing for you, it is not meant to be at this time.
That is not to say that sometime later, everything might just fall into
place and start clicking. Please, please do not give up. Just be patient
a little longer than you anticipated. And no, you are not being a baby.
Everyone needs to vent frustrations. Its therapeutic. This list offers a
lot of support, sometimes more than we get from our families. Take
advantage of all the experience of people of this list who have gone
through the waiting, refusals, and the surgery itself. And keep hoping.
Charlotte

Hi,
My name is Michele, I'm from New Jersey. I am in the process
leading up to having the surgery. My mother is not very found of me
doing this. I am only 22 years old, and have been battling my weight
since I was about 7 years old. I have tried everything from
medication, weight watchers, LA Weightloss, Nurtionists and
Physcologists. What I was wondering is- Does anyone regret having
this surgery? My mother says to me, What is your life going to be
like after? Your not going to be able to have any sugars or fats for
the rest of your life. Is everyone like that? I'm sure that people
vary. I read an article about a woman who couldn't ingest a little
bit of ketchup because of all the sugar. She would have very bad pain
and nausea and her heart would be very fast. Then I was watching the
Tonight Show and Roseanne Barr said she eats Chocolate Covered Graham
Crackers and Krispy Creme Doughnuts??? I am not a big Sweet eater
just basically on special occassions. I would be happy if I could
have just 2 small fork fulls of cake or one cookie. Does anyone feel
like they aren't living? Because they can't eat some many things? Do
you regret having this operation?
I would really really appreciate your responses.
Thank You,
Michele

Joyce,
You can blow off steam my way any time you like. I didn't want to
say before but my own surgery has been a real pain because first I
was denied, I appealed and waited and waited, now I'm approved but
they say they can't give me a date for awhile and that I'm looking
at another 5 months before I can have the surgery. I have to remind
myself everyday that slowly but surely we are getting closer to this
being a reality. I know its hard but keep thinking positive Joyce
and blow off steam with us any time you want:)
Bridget

(((joyce))) talk about agonizing, frustrating, & heartbreaking!
sounds likes it's time for plan b, c & d. does MI have any kind of
vocational rehab? what (if any) ins do you have on sept 2? sending
brainstorming wishes!
& btw, most of us have pre-op obstacles of one kind or another(i had
to be cleared @ the very last minute by a hematologist, too many
platelets).
lori h.

The thing is I have been appoved 100% from my insurance and I have my husband
insurance that pays 80%. Plus I have the money. That isn't the problem its one
test says I am ok from a doctor and the another test of the same thing saying I
am not. My family doctor don't go to the hospital I am having the surgery done
so I had to get a another doctor there. And he ran the test over again cause he
told me yesterday that I will be having the surgery next month. Than he found
this out about the liver and told me I was suppose to have the surgery in two
weeks now they don't know until next week when I have more test done. I don't
know when the date of the surgery is suppose to be I never heard anything from
my surgeon until this Friday when he took the polyps out of me. I am just being
a baby. I am sorry. I guess I need to blow off steam to someone. I would rather
it be on here than my family right now. I know they are worried about me with
this surgery. I would rather be safe with this
surgery than sorry. What all they can find wrong with me now is the better so
they can fix it so I can go on with my life.
wlslori <wlslori@...
frustrating, & heartbreaking!
sounds likes it's time for plan b, c & d. does MI have any kind of
vocational rehab? what (if any) ins do you have on sept 2? sending
brainstorming wishes!
& btw, most of us have pre-op obstacles of one kind or another(i had
to be cleared @ the very last minute by a hematologist, too many
platelets).
lori h.

Im so sorry Joyce for all that youve been through. But maybe this isnt
a sign that you arent supposed to have the surgery. Maybe it is just a
sign from the Lord that it isnt the right timing. Dont give up. There
have been so many others on this list that hit a lot of snags before
finally getting an approval from their insurance. Maybe your next
insurance will approve a lot sooner and pay a lot better.
Charlotte

I have tried so hard to have this surgery. I have done everything the doctor has
told me to do. The doctor told me yesterday that I could have the surgery. Than
today I got a call from his office that I have liver trouble. He said he wants
to do more test on me cause of a infection I have now. I have had heart cater,
colonscopy and now this. I got the letter today that my insurance ends September
1, 2003. I am so close to having the surgery. My surgeon is going to call me
this Friday over it. Has anyone else had these troubles? I know I have read in
here about the trouble with insurance and blood clots. But all this at once. I
feel like someone is trying to tell me OK you made it this far, your not going
any farther. Really I have done everything since May. I have had so much blood
work done since May that my arm looks like a pin cushion. They have been taking
the blood out of the same place no joke. And something keeps coming back up to
stop the surgery. I am feeling pretty low
right now. If it wasn't for this chat room I don't think I would of made it
this far. Thanks for all your help.
Joyce
still waiting.

awesome news, charlotte. with all the faith discussion going around,
it was inevitable, huh?
lori h.

alright, diana. thanx for the plug;-) & you did ok, kudos on giving
your testimonial.
lori h.

yay gina! sounding good, keep up the good work.
lori h.

hi diana. congrats on wanting to recapture your life, we're with ya!
lori h.

I have heard that the tummy tuck will be covered as
medically necessary, but arms, legs, etc, will not.

Does your surgeon prescribe protein drinks and
vitamins? Maybe he's missing something important like
B12 shot or something. Your regular physician should
be able to diagnos this for you.

So there I am at the informational seminar for my doctor's office and it's my
turn to speak. I start talking about my experience and guess what happens. I
get all choked up and tears are welling in my eyes. ~laughs~ I just told them
that I'm an emotional girl. I even plugged our group here as a GREAT source of
support for pre-ops and post-ops. It felt really good to be able to help people
understand and make decisions about WLS. It's cool to be an advocate. :-)
Thanks to everyone who thought of me and/or wished me luck.
Hugs,
Diana

I'm so happy for you Charlotte! You'll do fine. It went fast for me too.
Hugs,
Diana

There was a guy on here who used to post-he was 20
years out and doing great! I think you eventually
start to level out at the weight you are supposed to
be at and if you take your vitamins religiously, then
there should be no problems.
Shannon in WA

Deb,
Tell Ruth Ann my name is actually Ruth Anne too Thanks for telling me I still
think its pretty neat when I find others who have the same name as I do Give
her all the information she needs to hopefully not have to go the same path we
did. My oldest son who is also 12 .. is overweight and is constantly trying to
be aware of what he eats, he struggles, and I see how hard it is for him. I
have tried so hard not to nag or berrate him
as that is how I felt my mom did to me, even tho I know now it was because she
hated how I was treated. All we can do is educate them, give them all the
information they can use and hope that with that they can prevent having to go
through any of what we had too.. Take care and God bless
Ruth Anne
Debora A.Kroll" <debkroll212003@...
Thanks Ruth and God Bless I see you've lose over 180 lbs WOW that
Cool.I'm proud to know you and I bet you your a great person.Funny
thing I'm writing you about is My fourth child names is Ruth Ann She
saw your name and throught that was Great someone with her name.She
just turned 12 years old the 13th.And a little over weight and of
course she follows my foot steps on that.She was born 9lbs 11 oz.So
she been a big girl since birth.One good thing about me going
through this is she learning how to read lables and what to eat to
help her.She a proud little girl But also teased becuz she heavy by
some.I told if she still heavy and a few years and don't slim down
she has a right for surgery too.I'm hope many be she'll just slim
down as she gets older.Well Thanks and Congraduation too you too.a
friend debkroll of Iowa,Surgery Date Aug.18,2003,Wt# 357.5/339.5/180
or so.God be with everyone everyday.

I have been thinking about this surgery for almost a year. I finally got
up the courage to talk to my pcp in June of this year. She referred me to
a surgeon in Houston, but I couldnt get an appointment til July 15. I got
my hopes up and physiced myself for wls, constantly thinking and reading
about the surgery. I figured it was going to be an extra long process
since I didnt even get my first appointment with the surgeon til just a
couple weeks ago. Yesterday my insurance said that they couldnt approve
of my surgery, and that it was pending. The words that they used sounded
like they really wouldnt be approving. Well, this morning they DID
approve. The doctors office called me and the surgery is set for Sept.
17. It has all gone so quickly. Im sort of in shock. Got lots of
butterflies and getting scared already. My insurance is going to change
drastically by Oct. 1, by dropping the percent covered from 90% to 75%.
That means that I will pay 10% in September, but if the surgery was after
Oct. 1, I would have to pay 25% of the total cost. And thats a BIG
difference. I too am a Christian, so I just left it up to the Lord. A
couple days ago, I told the Lord that if He wanted me to have the surgery,
then He would have to work everything out. I certainly couldnt. If it
wasnt His will, then I would be satisfied with His decision; and with His
help, I could still lose weight. If it were His Will, then I would be
approved, and even be able to have the surgery during the month of
September. Well, He did! It is very hard to get a surgery date on such
short notice. But nothing is hard for God!
Charlotte
Pre-op (tomistic)
Soon to be post-op (tomistic)

Actually, once you have highlighted your information,
just left click on your mouse and select "copy" right
from that list-same with the paste. It saves a whole
step and much easier-faster.

SPIRIT LIFTER
God has kept me here for a reason.
I survived because he has a plan for me.
All my bad relationships, the bad credit, the repossessions, the death of my
loved ones,
the back stabbing from my friends, the negative thoughts, or the lack of
support.
I made it because I am blessed!
I release and let go of all past hurts, misunderstandings and grudges
because I am blessed! I recognize them as the illusions they are, for God
is all there is. All else is a lie!
Now give yourself a hug, wipe your tears and walk in victory!!!!!!!!

I know I've seen this listing before, but now I can't find it. What
should I take to the hospital for my WLS? Can anyone point me in
the right direction?
Oh yeah, I'VE GOT A DATE!!!! Sept. 18th, to be exact.

I agree with Maureen 100%. I can't believe anyone would say that
God wouldn't approve of this surgery, in fact I've heard many people
say that this surgery has been a gift from God for them! I know for
me personally this surgery is my last resort after trying every diet
and exercise plan out there. God wants us to be healthy and happy
and if this surgery will accomplish that than so be it. Prayers
will get us through this and perhaps you should pray for your
brother and that he will find true understanding.
Take care!
Bridget Northam

Yesterday I went to my one month follow-up. Actually, I'm about 6
weeks out, but it's been a month since my last visit to the
surgeon. Anyway, it was a good appointment. I really do love my
doctor. He is an excellent surgeon, and a very caring, kind
person. I can tell that he really takes an interest in his
patients. I mentioned to him about Kimberly's situation with her
doctor, and he told me that he doesn't like when his patients have
stories like that to relate about other doctors because it troubles
him that they are not concerned for their patients.
He had to re-open the incision at my waist on my right side. It
seemed to be infected, and not healing well. He wasnt' sure that it
was infected yet, but said the way to fix a problem like that is to
re-open it. If there is infection, it should drain, and then the
healing should be quick. So he pulled it apart and then cut the
sutures inside. As if that wasn't enough, then he cauterized it.
Ouch! I was laying on the table the whole time saying Ouch! Ouch!
Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! real fast....like that was going to make it feel
any better! LOL! By the time we got to the reception area, the pain
was starting to set in. It's almost like starting all over! The
only thing I keep thinking of is that this should fix the problem
and I'll be all healed up on the outside.
I go back in 3 months...day before Thanksgiving, I think. He wrote
an order for labs at that time so we can see how I'm doing nutrition-
wise.
Now there's something to think about...Thanksgiving should be
interesting this year. If it's just me and DH, I'm sure we won't
even cook a turkey.
See ya!
-Gina

In a message dated 8/26/2003 9:53:46 PM Central Standard Time,
Bdchow2@... writes:
I just wanted to wish you the best for your surgery on Wed. Sending
positive thoughts , and prayers that you will have an uneventful
surgery and hospital stay, and soon be safely on the Losing Side!
Beverly
RNY-Lap 7/31/o3
265/232/160
It is because of people like you that I love this group! I want to thank you
so much for the well wishes and the prayers. God Bless you and again thank you
so very much.
Wolfie
Pre-Op
Leeds, Alabama
Surgery Date-August 27th
Dr. Lee A. Schmitt

In a message dated 8/26/2003 11:14:08 PM Central Standard Time,
clearlight@... writes:
Ross
New Orleans, La.
post-op 8/22/03
440/?/?
Good for you Ross!!!!!!
Wolfie
Pre-Op
Leeds, Alabama
Surgery Date-August 27th
Dr. Lee A. Schmitt

Judy,
I haven't seen an answer to your question yet, so I'll jump in here.
My surgeon told me that it isn't required but recommended to get some sort of
medical bracelet. I contacted Medic Alert online - http://www.medicalert.org -
and got one. I agreed that it would be a good idea, if I am not able to tell
emergency staff to avoid a NG tube. There is a yearly membership fee that
includes a basic bracelet but you can upgrade for a fee to other styles.
I'm sure there are other organizations that provide this service, this just
happens to be the one I thought of first.
Mary
Open RNY 3/20/03
320/254/150(?) -66 pounds!
--
Mary A. Rawlings Kansas, USA
knitwit@...
homepage: http://www.angelfire.com/ks/maresplace <:3 )~~~
--
"If ignorance is bliss, why aren't more people happy?"
--

jtkidd1971,
Boy did your brother push my buttons without even being here! lol I
don't think that many of us are gluttonous at this stage. What
happens to the body that has yo-yoed for years is that it saves our
stored fats when it thinks we are starving ourselves by dieting. That
is biological not religious. For your brother to use God against you
is human and plainly WRONG. Do you think God would do that to
you? He loves us all not just thin people. I can't tell you how
grieved I am to hear a human being so proud as to tell you God
wouldn't approve and to make you question your motives. That to
me is a most un-Christian thing for anybody to do. There's a song
some years ago, "Would Jesus Wear a Rolex". (If he were alive
today?). that was during the time we had all the charismatic
Christians who wore expensive clothing, jewelry and drove
expensive cars. These people fell from grace. You have to go with
your best interpretation of Christianity and the Bible. Good luck with
this problem and once you make your decision keep to
it.~~Maureen~~

My wife had gastric bypass 14 July 2003. I'm not sure how it supposed to go,
but we have been back in the hospital 3 times. She is currently back in.
The GI docs say her surgery looks really good as far as the pouch and intestines
go. The problem is she cannot hold any food down. For some reason she stays
nauseous. They thought her problem was a restricted esophagus, she has had
it stretched twice in 3 weeks. If anybody knows about or has had these types
of problems please let us know. She is at the point where she wishes she had
never had the surgery.
Thanks
Dwayne

You go Ross......if you kept it down with no problem, that is great.
Eggs are great protein, and will help you feel satisfied!
Elvia

I just wanted to wish you the best for your surgery on Wed. Sending
positive thoughts , and prayers that you will have an uneventful
surgery and hospital stay, and soon be safely on the Losing Side!
Beverly
RNY-Lap 7/31/o3
265/232/160

Hey Y'all
First let me thank all of you for your words of encouragement! I really
appreciate the support of all of you in this group!
Now... I never thought I would be excited about eating an egg but here I am!
OK... I know that the plan calls for clear liquids for 2 weeks and eggs
actually don't even come into play for like a month down the road but I have
read a bunch of different posts in this group and if there is one thing I
have learned it is that no two plans are the same. That tells me that these
doctors are just playing it by ear when it comes to dietary decisions. Some
of you are sent home on soft foods, some of you are only on liquids. I have
talked to some people that were eating almost a normal diet a week post-op.
The only thing that is constant from everyone is the vitamins, protein and
liquids. So am I a bad boy? If so...blame it on my wife. She said try it!
LOL!
So I ate the soft scrambled egg and it went down fine. No nausea... No
nothing! And wouldn't you believe it was the best damn egg I ever ate!!!
Ross
New Orleans, La.
post-op 8/22/03
440/?/?

Everyone is diff on that subject.Mine was only the frist week.I had
mine surgery last week thought I was going to died or something but
this week been a blessing I walk alot to help when I did have nausea
that frist week Plus my 4 extra strenght Calcium Antacid tables from
the dollars store helped me through.I hope it gets better for you
and clears up.Not much fun or feeling.Oh don't forget Please eat
and drink slow also helps.a friend debkroll of Iowa,Surgery date
Aug.18,2003,Wt# 357.5/339.5/180 or close to it.God bless ya everyday
and help us through all the plans God puts us
through.

You're taking a leap of FAITH, hon and if you have any question about
that, I say pray on it, you'll get your answers. My whole WLS
journey has been traveled via the path of prayer and my faith in the
Lord to guide me.
Toi
Lap RNY Medial Bypass
12/31/02
-118 lbs
St. Mark's Hospital
Salt Lake City, UT
Dr. Steven Simper

Please unsubscribe me from Digests and group at this time.
thank you

What is the average length of time experiencing nausea after Gastric
Bypass Surgery

"...I mean do you miss being an eater?"
Yeppers! Food has always been a big part of my Rocky Mountain family
also. Seems as if the heart of every gathering consists of a feast,
its no wonder we all have weight difficulties.
But, yes. Some days I feel very hungry and just can't figure out
what I want to eat. Other days I am not hungry and wish I was so that
I could figure out something to eat. Funny thing is that when I made
my heartfelt decision to have surgery I was in tears and pleading
with my husband to tell me that I never had to eat again. I was
tired of food, I never wanted to smell it, look at it, taste it, buy
it, cook it, ever again. That was when I knew I was ready to take
the steps to seek surgery.
I am pretty strick with my diet, but I figure a years sacrifice is a
small price to pay for the years of damage I did my body because of
MO... I guess I kind of see it as penance. When I near goal I will
certainly allow myself special items and make sure I lean closer to
moderation and good choices, and hopefully not ever miss not being
able to eat large quantities or certain foods again.
Toi
Lap RNY Medial Bypass
12/31/02
-118 lbs
St. Mark's Hospital
Salt Lake City, UT
Dr. Steven Simper

In all the things that I have read on here, that has touched me more then any!!
I HATE that you have no church. You believe and love God but no one has extended
their hand out to you and invite you and your family. I wish I lived closer
because my church family is awesome.None of us are "anybody"!! we all come from
sin. I would welcome you in my family (church or otherwise) anytime. I hope one
day you feel comfortable enough or welcomed enough to go to a church. If you
have the strength, don't wait to be invited. You gain so much thru the teaching
of Gods word. I will pray for you and your family. That God lays you upon
someone's heart and they extend a welcome to you. Please know that you will be
in my prayers. I don't know what I would do without church. Please email me
privately if you want to talk about anything.
Way to go on your wls!!! You are such an inspiration to me. Not only with your
wls but with your personality. I can tell that you have a kind heart and a
gentle spirit.
Angie D

Yes, it's common for the dietician fees to not be covered or reimbursed by
the insurance company, depending on your carrier, which really doesn't make
sense in the first place.. I feel like they should cover the fee due to the fact
that some may be able to lose weight on their own, if they had someone working
with them directly, and had a prescribed healthy diet plan to work with.. But
since it's not covered, and some of us are poor, I guess we have to do what we
have to do.. lol.. Later...
Even if it is an extremity..
Kimberly Greer

Nope, I don't miss being an eater.. I just want to live and feel healthy
again.. Food isn't important to me anymore.. In fact, I have to remind myself to
eat..
Kimberly Greer

Hello
Wondering if other members have the same problem after Gastric Bpass
Surgury that the Medical Insurance company doesn't pay for a
Dietician

I believe in God and trust he will help me through life and all.I
just don't have a church I belong to.I read my bible and teach my
children his word.But I had bad exprience with churches in my
area.I'm not wealthly or have lots of money.I'm on disablies and I'm
not a very know person.I've lived in my area for 15 years moved here
becuz of my husband job and he farmed with his family and don't know
hardly anyone.The ones I've met have used me for stupid reasons and
ect.I never have been invited to join any church around here.So I
just pray to god and read his word to help me through everything.I'm
not writing to say anything bad about religion but were I am You
have to be someone to join a church.I thank god everyday for my life
and my family.But it's sad that people don't give people a chance to
invite family to join them in church.I guess becuz I don't do drug
or drink and hang in bars here and not look great they just don't
see me.God bless everyone whom has a church and fellowship of
friends to be with.So Like everyone said to make in life FAITH is
very important.a friend debkroll of Iowa,Surgery date
Aug.18,2003,Wt# 357.5./339.5/180 or better.God Bless you all.

Diane,
I think we can all say we have been the "butt" of jokes and
comments. I am now 51 and decided a few years ago that when
even someone looks at me with "that look" that I would think he/she
thought I was attractive. It works for me. I have lost 100 pounds
twice and put it back on plus some. I am sick and tired of being fat
and wondering if I will fit in a plane seat, a turn style, or a lawn chair.
As I am a dual citizen born and reared in the US and now a
Canadian having married my sweet heart five years ago who is from
Canada, I had enquired about WLS in the US and was told it was
not covered by my insurance. It is covered here in Canada but the
wait list is 2-years-long. I am getting close to my surgery date. I
have done gobs of research and am ready, willing and able. I have
no concerns about the surgery. You will do your research and you
will become comfortable with your choice. Ask questions and check
out our files. They are full of information. Good luck with your
journey.:-)~~Maureen~~

Thanks for the warm welcome I have recieved from the group it means
alot to have a place to come and express my feelings and concerns.
And yes I am a very young Grandma but I do love every minute of it, I
can spoil them and send them home at the end of the day.
Well today was my psychological test and it took me an hour to take
it 500 and some ?? that were so stupid maybe I just thought them
stupid because I was a psych major for 2 years...lol. I am currently
not working although I have a degree in Administrative Assistant... I
find it hard to find work here in my small minded town, I guess they
want someone fit and trim behind there desks they think someone of
size can't move fast enough to run from the boss's advances...lol a
little office humor there. But I have found it hard when looking for
work appreance is everything now a days. I know I am a very fine
looking lady but I am a large woman also; I am ready to make the big
change and can't wait to see what the psychologist say's on Thursday
(that's when I get my results) should be interesting to say the
least. I don't meet the surgeon til the 18th of September but I am so
ready for this surgery its not even funny. I have been battling the
weight for so many years and I am tired as is others of the remarks
and looks when you got shopping or out to eat with my husband (like
he should have better taste). And to be honest sometimes I wonder
what he does see in me, I am a very passionate woman and at times I
think he is really turned off by my weight although he would never
say that. He keeps telling me this is my decision. We have our
problems but mostly due to his ex's and I get stressed but have
learned to live with that for 3 years now and am finally handling it
better. I just want to feel like I did when I was lighter and was
able to turn a few heads and be for active; I can't wait for those
days to return. I got all the info from my nutrionist and now its
just wait wait wait... I am not very patient I want to just get it
done so I can move forward in my life. I have wasted way to many
years. Well thanks again for all the support and feel free to email
me anytime. Has anyone been near 500lbs that has had the surgury done
would love to hear from them?????????????
Diana
pre-op
490

Anybody Christian?
The reason I ask is to see how you have dealt with other believers
who may see this as a faithless cop-out?
I have a brother who is very holier than thou! I love him but I am
not so sure where he is coming from. The last time we talked about
the possibility I might get WLS (cracks me up thats the call letters
of a AM radio station in Chicago) He expressed concerns (non-
descript) as they were. I could tell where he was coming from when he
mentioned me going to a program there at church called The Most
Excellent Way. It is a program based on addictions. They even get
referals from the County courts. He was hinting that this and the
good ole Atkins diet would do the trick. I told him I would consider
my options for support after I made a decision about medical help,
whether it was meds or surgery. I can tell he still disapproves
though. Am I alone in this resistance? I mean is this a LACK of faith
or a LEAP of faith? From what I have gathered so far it is far more
than a cop-out. I still need to modify my behavior afterward it's
just the surgery reinforces it. I am not too off base in that
understanding am I?
I mean I understand, I am addicted to food. I have let it take the
place of my relationship with the Lord. That is a sin! Food has
become a [g]od to me. I am desperate to fix it. Short of deliverance
I see no more options. Doesn't scripture say something about cutting
of your right hand and gouging out your eyes if they cause you to sin?
This isn't the only thing leading me to this decision, health and
feeling good about me, and doing the things I have always wanted to
do, those are major considerations also. But my gluttony has been a
major conviction for years.
It just seems strange that my family has been after me for years to
do something about my weight. And when I finally work up the resolve
to be proactive? Whammo, they become disapproving and skeptical.
Thanks for having this group guys it is a major relief just to be
able to say these things. Let alone get answers. God Bless you.

I am a Christian....it is not a cop out. You will still have to resolve your
addictions so this is not a quick fix. You still have to work at it. Part of
the addiction is a sense of hopelessness and when you, really me, need to lose
260 pounds....it seems hopeless. But it is not hopeless. I have all of my
church family behind me...I am Methodist and sing in a contemporary Christian
band....I can't wait till I can't wait til I am on the losing team....10 weeks
and counting. Hope that helps....
Carol Matar
Carol Matar

I don't mean do you miss eating as in you don't eat now. I mean do
you miss being an eater? How hard has it been to get used to not
using food for medication, celebration, and an activity to kill time
with? I know you eat afterward but it is to stay alive. Are you ever
able to in some small way enjoy food again? Don't get me wrong I am
not basing a decision on this alone, as you can see so far I have
lots I am dealing with as I am sure you all do/did. I come from a
large southern family and food is a big part of that heritage. I just
want to go into this (assuming I do) completely heads up.
Please Just let me know how hard it has been to adjust and do you
still miss it if it has been some months or years even?
God Bless

Reminder Reminder from the Calendar of Gastric_Bypass_Family
South Miami Hosp Support Group
Thursday August 28, 2003
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
This event repeats on the last Thursday of every month.
The next reminder for this event will be sent in 1 day, 4 minutes.
Event Location: Educ Cntr
Notes:
go to miamihope.com
August's speaker is a LCSW, Journaling your wls journey

Rachel got a date wow how wonderful a month will pass fast. Good Luck !
Joyce I really enjoyed your intro. you wil be fine because you are strong
and care about yourself as well as others. Ask any questions you can think
of.
Robin O- Calif
211-135- ?????
Dec 5 2002

I have a new question for all of you. Do you know if we should be wearing
Medical ID bracelets to inform and emergency care givers of our surgery? If
so, where can you get them? I was told that without such notice we might
have an NG tube put through our pouch accidentally. As I will have my
surgery on Sept 15th, I am trying to prepare well in advance for any
possibility. Thanks for all the help and inspiration you all have been.
Keep up the good work! Judy Sheldon (preop)

Denise,
You are going to do great! It is only natural to be nervous, but you can do
this, stay positive, talk to anyone that will listen to you :) We all here will
:) And trust in your surgeon.. Do things that need to get done before you go to
the hospital,I made lists upon lists of things to get done beforre I went in so
that I knew it would be done and I wouldnt be tempted to try to do them
afterwards. I think keeping busy and occupied really helped me out alot :)
Take care .. and congratualtions :)
Ruth
post op
open RNY Dr Bruce Thayer
Oct 29,2002
"Reichard, Denise L" <reicharddl@...
Hi all,
I just received a call from the hospital yesterday giving me my time for
surgery.. It will be Sept 5th at 10:30 AM... I am so nervous I can't sleep
at night. Please someone give me the confidence that I will need to make it
through... I have a feeling once I get to the hospital I may turn around
and want to come back home... Worried to death... Help....
Denise R.

Deb,
WTG keep up the good work and the positive attitude :)
Ruth
Postop Open RNY Dr BruceThayer
386/206/???
Oct 29,2002
"Debora A.Kroll" <debkroll212003@...
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.

Thanks Ruth and God Bless I see you've lose over 180 lbs WOW that
Cool.I'm proud to know you and I bet you your a great person.Funny
thing I'm writing you about is My fourth child names is Ruth Ann She
saw your name and throught that was Great someone with her name.She
just turned 12 years old the 13th.And a little over weight and of
course she follows my foot steps on that.She was born 9lbs 11 oz.So
she been a big girl since birth.One good thing about me going
through this is she learning how to read lables and what to eat to
help her.She a proud little girl But also teased becuz she heavy by
some.I told if she still heavy and a few years and don't slim down
she has a right for surgery too.I'm hope many be she'll just slim
down as she gets older.Well Thanks and Congraduation too you too.a
friend debkroll of Iowa,Surgery Date Aug.18,2003,Wt# 357.5/339.5/180
or so.God be with everyone everyday.

Rachel
Congratulations :)
Ruth
bastianmagoozer <bastianmago