Gastric Bypass

hi Ivette,
I have that much to lose for my idea weight. I am so happy you made it. I know
I am going to make it but I don't know when. I am going to have my surgery
November 12, 2003. I really can't wait, I have waited along time for this.
Joyce
11/12/03
leonivette <leonivette@...
Hello everyone:
I just wanted to share with you that I am 10 1/2 months post-op and
I have never been happier!!!! I reached my goal weight roughly two
months ago. I lost a total of 129 lbs and weigh 133 lbs!
I have created a "before and after" picture album and you can see it

Lizette,
First of all Congratulations on you surgery date, that has to be one great
feeling! I agree with you that Dr. Phil has bitten off more than he can chew.LOL
I think he is great at what he does, but I don't think that everyone can be a
crossover diet guru. Especially, thank you for your prayers, this is one place
that you are never alone.Constance
Lizette Marie Alvarez <lma212@...
Hi Everyone,
I am new to this group. I just received my surgery date for October 14,
YEAH!!!!!!!
I live just 30 min south of Nashville, TN. I enjoy reading all the messages. It
is so wonderful how no one is alone in this thing. I also wanted to comment on
Dr. Phil. I too watched last night. I really do think he's bitten of more than
he can chew, this thing looks like it's going to blow up in his face,
LOL,LOL,LOL... and am I the only one who noticed? Doesn't it look like he could
lose a few ponds as well!!!!
Constance my heart goes out to you. I know how hard it is to lose a pet, it's
just like one of the family. Please know you and your family are in my prayers.
God Bless
Lizette

((((((Wolfie)))))),
Thank you so much. I'm so grateful that there are so many of you who understand.
She wasn't that old really. She would have been 9 in November. A Samoyed we had
her for 8 years. She was the type that the kids could pull on her ears, sit on
her, pull her tail and never even thought of laying a tooth on them. For us she
was perfect. We do have other dogs, but none will ever replace her. I love all
my pets and they are also our family. I just think there is something special
about animal lovers, Constance
wolfeyes1958@... wrote:
In a message dated 9/13/2003 11:42:42 AM Central Standard Time,
tcpar2@... writes:
Thanks for listening, Constance
Dear Dear Constance,
You did have a terrible time with all the bad things going on. I am so
sorry about your dog. I know, being a bigtime animal lover, what it is like to
lose a member of your family. All my furry babies I consider my babies and
will argue the point if someone says they arent. lol. But I wish you well and I
hope the children can work through their upset and greif along with you and
your husband over losing your dog. Take care and God Bless.
Wolfie
Lap Rny...August 27,2003
Dr. Lee A. Schmitt
Birmingham, Alabama
Keep 'Em Laughing!

Hello everyone:
I just wanted to share with you that I am 10 1/2 months post-op and
I have never been happier!!!! I reached my goal weight roughly two
months ago. I lost a total of 129 lbs and weigh 133 lbs!
I have created a "before and after" picture album and you can see it

Jessica,
We are in Colorado above 6000ft. I really don't mind the snow, the wind is what
gets you. Constance
cheyanne1113@... wrote:
Where do you live that your getting snow??
Jessica

Hi, Mary: My dietician at the Bariatric clinic recommended the
following bars: Odyssey @ GNC 30g, Detour 20g, EAS 25g, Atkins 20g,
and Carbsolutions. Most of these are available at Walmart. I have not
tried any of them yst as I just started on soft foods a couple of
days ago,
Jill- Louisiana
299/272/145

I just found fitday.com. GO to this site and keep a online daily
report of what you eat everyday, it even tells you all the carbs,
protein and everything you eat per day.
Good luck
Becky
246/223/ 135

For those of you that eat Protein bars.. what brand do
you recommend? I desperately need to buy some today,
because I cannot handle this hair loss. Please help
me choose the right kind!
~Mary
=====
"My wish isnt to be everything to everyone, but something to someone..."

I live in Indiana but my surgeon is in Louisville, KY
Kimmie
Lap RNY 12/19/02
343/185/135

Constance; I hope you have a much better day today... and where do you live
for snow already? Dawn in Kansas

Hang in there, Constance... I have had days that bad
and worse... You will make it through and be stronger
for it, honey...
Feel free to vent as needed... that's what we are here
for...
Sharon in Houston

Hi Everyone,
I am new to this group. I just received my surgery date for October 14,
YEAH!!!!!!!
I live just 30 min south of Nashville, TN. I enjoy reading all the messages. It
is so wonderful how no one is alone in this thing. I also wanted to comment on
Dr. Phil. I too watched last night. I really do think he's bitten of more than
he can chew, this thing looks like it's going to blow up in his face,
LOL,LOL,LOL... and am I the only one who noticed? Doesn't it look like he could
lose a few ponds as well!!!!
Constance my heart goes out to you. I know how hard it is to lose a pet, it's
just like one of the family. Please know you and your family are in my prayers.
God Bless
Lizette

I only watched bits and pieces of the show, but couldn't help but
thinking, wouldn't it have been more helpful or interesting if it
were Dr. Phil and Al Roker????????????? What did Katie Couric have
to do with it?

Where do you live that your getting snow??
Jessica

I am so sorry to hear about your dog. I know what it is like to lose
a friend like that. It is so painful and trying to be strong for the
kids makes it even more difficult. You are living life and these
things happen. However, you never need to apologize for venting
here. That's what we are here for. We all have lives outside of our
weight loss surgery issues! We are human. Please continue to lean on
us.
Michelle

Hey All,
Well, I have to say, this hasn't been the best day for me. This is
one of those days that reminds you of an old country/western
song...Are you ready for this...When I came home from taking my 4year
old to preschool, I found one of my dogs dead(We've had her since my
oldest daughter was two-8years she was with us)My 2year old screaming
and crying, she just doesn't understand. I'm crying. The dog weighs
about 60#, I can't move her. So the only thing I can think to do it
cover her until my husband gets home,around 5pm...4 hours to go.
4:30pm,kids come home from school...all three of them devistated that
dog is gone(only halfhour till husband gets home)
come in from letting kids say goodbye to dog-husband calls car broke
down, everyone else has gone home and no one to help him...He's
working an 2 hours away. About this time, dog is starting to "go bad"
and has to be laid to rest. Kids and I spend next 2 hours trying to
give the dog some peace...by this time all of the kids and I are
standing around this big hole in the ground crying...I notice some
neighbors watching trying to figure out what we are doing...thinking
to myself,I hope they realize my husband wouldn't fit into this
hole...he really is on his way home.I missed the first hour of this
special show with Dr. Phil,I have a real stinking attitude at this
time.Based on what I saw, I don't think he is being fair. I'm not
130# overweight because I choose to be.It's not as black and white as
he makes it out to be. I have to admit That I'm disappointed in his
point of view. And if that's not enough, my mom left Orlando this
a.m. for a cruise in the Carribean(sp)and hurricane who is hanging
around down there? I found out that I have to have another ekg
because stress test showed extra heart beat???And we are expecting
snow here tonight. Sorry this is so long guys, I just had to get it
out somehow... Thanks for listening, Constance

Thanks all for your answer. I did some research after I posted this
question and did read there were really no syptoms. Last time I was
at my Dr's office (last week) it was 140/90. I just have headches
all the time and today I could feel my heart pounding all over my
body, kinda fast and I had a rotten headache and I didn't feel too
great. Feeling that way right now actually. My dad has high blood
pressure and so does my brother who is not even 2 years older then
me. He's not everweight either, it is hereditary in my family so I
worry about it. My Dr isn't ready to diagnose me with it, he wants
to check it a couple more times at a few more visits and if it's
still up he said he would and give me some meds. I just want to
feel fine for one entire day. I feel like crap so often. I want to
get rid of these headaches.
Chelle
279 pre-op

Deb Kroll I sat and had a big smile on my face, after I read your
post. I could just picture you standing in place, with big old baggy
clothes half off. What a hoot. Keep it up girl.
Jill H.
271/pre-op
10/20/03

Well, I am hoping all goes well because I have United Healthcare
insurance and a whole host of comorbidities. I think the surgeon is a
good one and he spent lots of time with me going over things
Pat

Passing this info on for anyone in the Reno, NV area :)
Caroline Martin
Lap RNY 5/2/03
367/283/150
ObesityHelp.com Profile: www.tinyurl.com/bkld
More Photos: www.picturetrail.com/carolineam

Sorry I forgot to add, I will be having the Lap RNY procedure.

I have! I've spent tons of money at Jenny Craig...what a waste!
So why are you eating Atkins bread? It IS expensive! Personally, I
don't think the amount of carbs you save is worth the price you
pay. I used to make my own low-carb bread, and the ingredients were
expensive...and we always ended up throwing away at least half of
it. We didn't eat much bread, and it has no preservatives so it
would spoil. I don't do it anymore for a couple reasons....1) The
fat content is a little high for this lifestyle (because of the
almond flour and ground sunflower seeds). 2) The bread doesn't
taste all that great. I mean, it's okay, but it's just okay. If
I'm going to have a piece of bread now, I want to enjoy every bite
of it. Now I buy Oroweat 100% Wheat bread, and it tastes great!
-Gina in CA
LAP RNY 07-17-03
324/268.25/130?

Uh-oh! Don't have us send letters to Dr. Phil too now!
I'm kinda on the fence about anyone who has something to say about
anybody's behavior. I love to watch Dr. Phil, and I think he has
some interesting things to say, but I also don't always see eye-to-
eye with him.
And you're right, Lori Anne! He has been looking a little heavy
around the middle lately. Gosh, you crack me up!
One time I saw his show and there were two fat women on there who
thought that society should adapt to fat people....you know bigger
restaurant booths, bigger airline seats, etc. Granted, the two
women were, IMHO, off base in their thinking, but so was Dr. Phil.
And it really bugs me when people always assume that you have some
sort of emotional problem/childhood trauma that has made you fat. I
guess for some people that might be true, but not all.
I hope I catch the show tonight.
Gina in CA
LAP RNY 07-17-03
324/268.25/130?

Hey Lori Anne,
If I'm not mistaken, the short history of Dr. Phil began when Oprah
was being sued by the cattleman's association in Texas,for saying
something about beef and how bad it is for you.(LOL but it really
happened) Well, he is a psychologist and a pretty darn good one. The
type of man that could walk into a room full of people, briefly
interview them and decide who would be the best type of person to sit
on a jury. Long story short a behavioral psychologist that "reads"
people incredibly well, and laughing about it all the way to the
bank. I guess he made big bucks from huge corporations that would
hire him for his ablility. Oprah was facinated by him. He made
appearances on her show and spun off his own.
I myself have not heard his views on WLS and that's why I'm watching
tonight. To see if he will even address it. I'm curious as to what
this "think yourself thin" thing is about.(If it was that easy,I'd
look like Laura Croft) And as far as your what
did you call it "loud mouth opinion from NY", you go girl! You yell
it from the roof tops, this is America,I respect everyones point of
view. Constance

Wolfie
Lap Rny...August 27,2003
Dr. Lee A. Schmitt
Birmingham, Alabama
Keep 'Em Laughing!

Thanks Robin,
We are going to therapy together. I don't know how much it has
helped. We have really hard times and then not so hard times, but
it's never easy in my house. Who knows, maybe I did something wrong
in a past life or something! I'm dealing with it the best I can. He
is always in a bad mood, no matter what. But you know what? I like
me no matter how he is so I'll survive! Just like Gloria Gaynor, I
will survive, oh oh!
Michelle

Hello ladies as I read your post about your husbands I felt sad for you
because they should be your biggest fans and supporters. But you must be
strong women because you made your choice for you and knew you would be just
fine with out there support. Try and look at the entire picture here because
if you are in love with this person than maybe he is also having some
adjustment problems.
Try and talk it out they could even be scared of what the furture holds
maybe they are insecure.
None the less I admire your personal will. Ask any questions that might
make your journey easier.
Robin O - Calif
211-133-????
Dec 5 2002

Welcome Pat I hope you find this group as helpful as I have ! I had lap on
Dec 5th and am doing great.
I have had know problems at all and could not be happier with this choice.
Robin O - Calif
211-135-????
Dec 5 2002

$4.99 for a loaf of Atkins bread, a little shocking. for that price,
it should include the lunch meat or something. didn't buy it, but
who else has overpaid for weight management food?
lori h.

i'm with ya, hunny! 1st, congrats on making goal. 2nd, yep, a wls
website said it beautifully "complacency is the major enemy of post-
ops". it's a process & i'm having to always find inspiration &
motivation. i've heard that a good way to zap them *%&# carb
cravings is to go back to protein 1st. i'm working on the water
intake, that part of me is a remnant of being MO. i can relate,
this ain't a magic carpet ride.
keep posting.
lori h.
16 1/2 months out

hey guys, i need to take a course in "self-help" TV cuz i've never
ever seen a dr. phil show. i'll try to watch tonight if my hubb
doesn't hog the TV.
lori h.

oh no everyone, i need some help and encouragement!
I am fairly new to the group and i have only posted a couple of times. I am post
op (11/02) and have done well until now-----I have a gotten my appetite back-
and it scares me! i have lost to my goal weight and am soooo happy, but i find
my self starting to eat things that are bad for me, not drinking my water and
testing the limits with sugar. I am so scared that i am going to gain all my
weight back, like always before on diets. Does anyone know of anyone who has
gained their weight back???? I can't even enjoy my weight loss, b/c I am so
scared of gaining again!
michelle
post op 11/11/02
268/131

They call high blood pressure the silent killer
because there isn't always signs to it. I,
personally, do get a stuffy feeling in my head and
sometimes my pulse/heart will beat too rapidly. These
are my symptoms, but not everyone has them.

Is this high blood pressure?
Which leads me to another question. What would be some symptons of
high blood pressure? Headaches? Nausea? Just got a feeling but I
want to know more about it. Thanks is advance.
Chelle
279 pre-op

I am looking for a referal to a good Dr in Indiana. I live by
Keystone and the Crossing and would love to get some suggestions of
helpful/good Docs in my area.
Erin

Got my VCR set to record it. I hope that he has a good show. I like Dr.
Phil I would hate to hafta boycott him.
Jessica in MI
340/Pre-op (tomistic)

Hey Folks,
I thought that I would post for those of you who do not know(and may
be interested), that Dr. Phil will be on Dateline(I think) in a
special to promote his new book. Think yourself thin...or something
to that effect. Check your local NBC t.v. listings to verify time.
I'm going to watch. I have to say after Oprah, I'm sure curious if he
will address our "surgical method" and if so what his opinion may be.
We might learn something...we might get a good laugh...we might get
mad... but I thought it might be interesting. Take Care, Constance

LOL Lori, you crack me up!
It's all a marketing ploy, yanno. Exercise is like marijuana.
After you do it -- you're hungry. LOL
In a message dated 9/12/03 12:06:33 PM Eastern Daylight Time,
wlslori@... writes:

I agree. I checked my E-Mail today and found over 61 messages! I
didn't recognise most of them. I deleted them all. It filled my box
completely. Let me know what you find out.
Cheryl

in my neighborhood, there's a gym w/ a bakery right next door....
also saw a Dunkin Donuts right next to a Jenny Craig....
what's that about? ;-)
lori h.
16 1/2 grateful months out

http://www.snopes.com/horrors/mayhem/fakecop.htm
Whether this particular tale is true or not, women driving alone have been
sexually assaulted by rapists pretending to be police officers, so the
advice it gives (to not pull over in deserted areas when signaled to do so
by an unmarked police vehicle) is well worth heeding. Keep driving until you
get to a well-lit area where there are others about. Call 911 and tell them
what's happening. (Although in at least in some U.S. states, #77 on a cell
phone will immediately connect you to that state's highway patrol, that code
is not universal. Some states use #77, but others use *55, *47, or *HP, and
some don't have any special code at all. Rather than frantically try to
figure out which one will work in the area you're in, get around the problem
by going straight to 911.)
Subject: Re: Subject: #77 Cell phone feature -- IMPORTANT
Is this really true? Does #77 work in all states?

Is this really true? Does #77 work in all states?

Welcome to the family Pat!
Pamela
11/19/02
140 lbs gone!!
Miami

Subject: #77 Cell phone feature -- IMPORTANT
Apparently police in unmarked cars must wait until you feel you've reached a
safe place to pull off of the road. Check this one
out...it's short, but may save your life or someone you love's life.
Lauren was 19 yrs old and in college. This story takes place over the
Christmas/New Year's holiday break. It was the Saturday before New Year's and
it was about 1 PM in the afternoon, and Lauren was driving to visit a friend.
An UNMARKED police car pulled up behind her and put his lights on.
Lauren's parents have 4 children (high school and college age) and have always
told them never to pull over for an unmarked
car on the side of the road, but rather wait until they get a gas station,
etc., so Lauren had actually listened to her parents advice, and promptly
called #77 on her cell phone to tell the police dispatcher that she would not
pull over right away. She proceeded to tell the dispatcher that there was an
unmarked police car with a flashing red light on his rooftop behind her. The
dispatcher checked to see if there was a police car where she was and there
wasn't and he told her to keep driving, remain calm and that he had back-up
already on the way.
Ten minutes later 4 cop cars surrounded her and the unmarked car behind her.
One policeman went to her side and the others surrounded the car behind. They
pulled the guy from the car and tackled him to the ground....The man was a
convicted rapist and wanted for other crimes.
I never knew about the #77 Cell Phone Feature, but especially for a woman alone
in a car, you should not pull over for an
unmarked car. Apparently police have to respect your right to keep going to a
"safe" place. You obviously need to make some signals that you acknowledge
them (i.e. put on you hazard lights) or call #77 like Lauren did.
Too bad the cell phone companies don't give you this little bit of wonderful
information. So now it's your turn to let your friends
know about #77.

Congraduations to you Heather.Way too Go 100 lbs.WOW can't wait
till my day to say that.I so happy for you I would yell and jump up
and down to see that day.Way To Go Girl !!!!!!!!! keep the updates
coming.a friend debkroll pf Iowa down 36
lbs.

Way to go!!!!!! Woo Hoooo!!!! I can't wait to be doing the 100 pounds off
dance with you!!!!!

I did it!! My body has been fighting me for a month now on these last 5-10 lbs,
but today is the day :O) At almost 5 1/2 months out I have lost 100 lbs! WOO
HOOO!!!
I will try to post before and after pics.
Heather
3/31/03
Open RNY 150 cm bypassed
367.5/267.5/175??
»ïÏï«,¸¸,»ïÏï«,¸¸,»ïÏï«,¸¸,»ïÏï«
Lost time is never found.
»ïÏï«,¸¸,»ïÏï«,¸¸,»ïÏï«,¸¸,»ïÏï«

Yes, I ran across this. I also have Aetna and they just changed to the
6 month diet thing in January of this year. But they did not tell me it
had to be an approved diet. They just said 6 month dr supervised.
Guess I'm calling them today. I was also turned down by my second
insurance, because my primary, Aetna turned me down. And TriCare
approves everyone.
I know it doesn't help, but I just wanted to let you know this is how it
is. The doctors don't fight it. Can't, the insurance company will not
approve without the diet. But all his evaluations should be good after
the 6 months. I think it's only after a year that you have to have them
redone.
Good luck. My surgeon would not appeal...so I'm waiting still...

Sounds like a great early christmas present to me! Congrats on
getting a date!
~Tanja

I think it is called myvirtualmodel.com
It is great fun to "see" what you would look like at different
weights! I love it there!
Michelle

In a message dated 9/11/2003 11:45:50 PM Eastern Daylight Time,
n2nwnese@... writes:
Hello, my name is Pat and I am in Oklahoma. I just had my first visit
with the surgeon and will be having a Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass
laproscopically. I am just starting the process.
Pat
Hi Pat welcome to this merry band of folk LOL. I had the same operation on
8/25/03 and would be happy to share any experiences you'd be interested in
knowing about :0)
Lori Anne
Lap RNY 8/25/03
274/259/135

A CPAP is the machine used by people who have sleep apnea. It forces
air into them while they sleep so they don't have an apnea attack. I
only remember that from when my kids were born premature. They
always watched for a's and b's, apneas and bradachardia (sp) which
is the stopping of the heart during sleep. Scary stuff!
Michelle

I have BC HMO plus which gives you the option of going out of
network to use the PPO portion. My surgery was PPO and covered at
70/30. But I was approved within one week of my surgeons visit.
Actually, I was approved twice, once last year, but then I chickened
out and then this year. My surgery was 8/12/03 and I'm so glad I
didn't chicken out this time!
Michelle

Hello, my name is Pat and I am in Oklahoma. I just had my first visit
with the surgeon and will be having a Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass
laproscopically. I am just starting the process.
Pat

Anna,
I think we're married to the same man! My surgery was 8/12/03 and I
have lost about 25 lbs. He has not once asked me how I felt, if he
could bring me anything or even commented on my weight loss. On the
day I came home from havine MAJOR SURGERY his biggest concern was if
I could have sex with him. Need I say more? My 100lbs first, then
his 170lbs is out the f***ing door!
Michelle

I know, I know....it is http://www.myvirtualmodel.com
it's fun...
DebbieW - Az Pre-Op
googlymom3 <googlymom3@...
There was a website I visited awhile back that if you typed in your
height and weight it would show you a picture of what you would look
like. Does anyone have that site? please let me know asap! :)
Thanks bunches!
Vickie

Great job, keep up with the good work :)
Take Care,
Julie
Open RYN 4-7-03
351/260/???

There was a website I visited awhile back that if you typed in your
height and weight it would show you a picture of what you would look
like. Does anyone have that site? please let me know asap! :)
Thanks bunches!
Vickie

got my fingers & toes crossed for ya!
lori h.

Hi Lori, Which Dr did your surgery? I was just curious..
Vanessa

You go Lori H
You keep up the great work ... girl even when I am at fighting weight I do
not want to go jogging but I think my fiance has other plans for me because he
jogs and is other wise a physical fitness freak lol.
Lori Anne
Lap RNY 8/25/03

Hi Sandy,
I dont know if he will or not but try Dr de la Cruz-Munoz, he is the
best I feel! 305-856-4385 They dont just pull out?
Pamela
11/19/02
140 lbs gone!!
Miami

Hi Sandy,
Welcome to the group and your gonna love it here. Everyone is so helpful and
will answer any question that you may have. Will talk to you soon
Big Hugz & Warm Smiles
Debbie
Northern Minnesota
Pre-Op Lap RNY 9/15/03
Current Weight 278 lbs.

Charlotte,
I will try to answer what I can.....
Protein drinks can be eaten for either a meal on the go or a
snack...makes no difference really...you are aiming for 60gms. of
protein a day eventually.
I don't know how long it is suppose to take to eat a meal but I only
take about 15 minutes
Popcorn...I am only 3 months out and popcorn is one thing that I have
NO PROBLEM eating....and it surprises me how MUCH I can actually
eat....a whole mini microwave bag in about 30 minutes...I sneak them
into the movies....
Dessert like yearnings....I have personally found that one bite
satisfies my cravings and I am fine but everyone is different...only
you will know your limitations.
As far as fast food....I have eaten a chicken quesidilla (SP?) at
taco bell....only got thru 1 1/2 pieces though....middle of taco
would be fine....Wendy's has the BEST chili... Just remember protein
first and you'll do fine....don't stress to much on the
carbs....Personally I don't have any trouble stomaching carbs at
all....but again...everyone is different.
I don't see anything wrong with adding a few tablespoons of coke to
your water so long as it doesn't irritate you...but remember that we
are trying to create new good habits...so I wouldn't go overboard and
start letting yourself drink straight coke or anything.
As for post hospital food....I found I ate so little and didn't
really like leftovers that I didn't prepare anyting in advance. I
drank alot of milk and ate a pureed diet of scrambled eggs and
potatoes ect. for 6 weeks.
Good luck with your surgery! Anything else feel free to ask!
RaeShel
Lap Surgery 6/06/03
373/263/160????

All Right Lori h Jogging that Great.I can't wait to jog around and
ect.Congradaution and Keep on Going.a friend debkroll of
Iowa.

Hello -
My name is Sandy, I'm 37 years old and just made it to the losing
side on Sept 2. I self-paid for the Open RNY in Mexico using a great
doctor by the name of Dr. Aguirre. So far I've lost 15 lbs in 9 days
and am very happy with the lack of significant pain and quick
recovery.
I'm on a pureed diet until October, at which point I can start some
real foods. I'm very excited about the possibility of getting my
life and figure back and can't wait to start exercising.
I took my drain tube out Monday and that was the best feeling ever.
It hurt me a lot over the weekend! I thought it would be easy to get
a doctor to take my staples out here in Miami, but I was wrong. No
one will touch me!! Tomorrow will be Day 10 and they are supposed to
be out by then - and no one will help me. I even called Baptist
Hospital and they referred me out to some surgeons, none of which
will do it either. Can anyone here recommend a doctor who might be
willing to take my staples out? I'm self-pay and will sign whatever
they want, as long as they take these things off me.
I thought I read somewhere that this group has occasional get
togethers?
Thanks!!
Sandy
OpenRNY 9/2/03
255/240/130

My surgery is set for Sept. 24. I read and read, but the more I read,
seems like the more questions I have. Maybe some of you can answer
these latest ones for me.
Q. When do you drink the protein shakes? Inbetween meals? Instead of
a meal?
Q. I read that many of you just starting back with your eating, takes
a long time to finish a whole meal. About 30 minutes or more. But I
read in "Pouch Rules for Dummies" that a meal should be eaten in 5-15
minutes. Isn't that risking dumping?
Q. Is popcorn a FOREVER no-no?
Q. What takes the place of that little "dessert-like" yearning?
Another protein shake, or something better?
Q. When you are running errands in town, and don't have time to go
home to eat, what can you eat? My favorite food right now is Mexican
food. So how can I adapt that? Can I just eat the middle out of a
taco?
Q. I've always loved "watered down" cokes. So could I just add a
couple tablespoons of coke to my water to make it taste good, instead
of buying those flavored bottles of water?
Q. What sort of things should I prepare in advance, besides making my
own broth, for when I get home from the hospital?
These are just a few questions. I'm sure I'll have more later.
Thanks guys,
Charlotte
Pre-Op (tomistic)

i have BCBS ppo and they approved me from one day to another...they do require a
doctors recommendation and a letter stating the diets you've been on and have
been unsuccessful on...the gastricbypassfamily.com website helped me out...look
at di's letter and i'm sure it'll help you too.
good luck,
eileen
Erin Dean <erin_dean@...
Does anyone who has been approved have this insurance? I am trying
to get approved the first time and would like all the help I can get
on what all they require.
Thank you
Erin

that's right!! my trainer & i jogged a MILE. tG for indoor tracks
& most of all, tG for empowerment & progress. i never dreamed that
this would be possible again.
lori h.
16 1/2 months out

In a message dated 9/11/2003 4:21:27 PM Eastern Daylight Time,
apa@... writes:
Does anyone know if its ok to use a cpap machine immediatley post op?
Ive heard 2 different stories.
I heard no because there is a chance it could rupture the surgery
and cause a leak due to the high pressure and I have heard yes that
its a must.
Allan
Alan I don't know what that machine is or what it is used for but I would
suggest speaking to your surgeon and PCP before using anything that could harm
you.
Lori Anne
Lap RNY 8/25/03

Does anyone who has been approved have this insurance? I am trying
to get approved the first time and would like all the help I can get
on what all they require.
Thank you
Erin

Does anyone know if its ok to use a cpap machine immediatley post op?
Ive heard 2 different stories.
I heard no because there is a chance it could rupture the surgery
and cause a leak due to the high pressure and I have heard yes that
its a must.
Allan

Hello Everyone...I am really upset and hope someone out there has
come across this issue w/ Aetna USAccess. I had my Gastric Bypass on
May 20, 2003 and am happy to report I've lost almost 60lbs. Which is
almost 50% of my goal!
Anyway, my boyfriend had considered this surgery and had done his
nutritional evaluation & Psych. evaluation. Then today he went to
meet w/ the surgeon. So... after paying out of pocket for
nutritional & psych evaluation he was told by the surgeon today that
because he has Aetna USAccess, they won't approve him without him
being on an approved diet for 6 months or something like that. Now
my boyfriend has a BMI of 52, is diabetic & has sleep apnea. From I
understand, the doctors office won't even bother submitting his
information for at least another year until he's completed all these
requirements.
My question is, has anyone w/ Aetna USAccess come across this
problem? SHould we force the surgeon's office to submit for
approval???
This msg. will be posted on another group too.
Thanks!!!
Patrizia
268/207/150

Anna-
The problem is, if your husband is anything like
mine............................
He won't go to a group, he won't read anything, his opinion is what it is and
that's that. Sound familiar? I decided that I am gonna do this for me and
my kids and if the SOB I'm married to don't like it. SO WHAT!! I want to see
my kids grow up and I want to see my grandchildren. If he wants to sit on his
butt and just talk about losing weight that's his problem, I am gonna do
something about it!!! I will be here whenever you need encouragement, my email
address is cheyanne1113@.... I am so sick of these men who don't want to
do anything but bash our hopes!! (no offense to the guys on here!) I wish you
the best of luck and stick to your guns!!! And God bless you and my friend
Shannon who finally gave the strength I needed.
Jessica in MI
340/Pre-Op

I have been given a date for my lap on december the 15th...
Allan
Cincinnati,Ohio

I'm sorry, Shannon. That stinks!

At least it was only a week. My original surgery was
supposed to be today but because my dr broke his leg
while hiking, everyone's surgery was postponed for at
least 2 months. I'm back to not having a date.
BUMMER!
Shannon in WA

sorry that there's been a couple of 'em the past few days, but i've
banned their stinky asses.
lori h.

Well, my surgery got moved from 10/07 to 10/13. I'm a little
frustrated, but I've waited this long. I can wait one more week.

hi a.j. so good to hear that docs are coming around, i had to do some
major persuasion on my wonderful PCP. he's 1000% convinced now.
it was brilliant of your doc to note that obesity is a result (among
many other variables) of adaptive efficient genes. those thrifty
genes kept my ancestors alive. & now i'm adapting to my environment
as well. though wls isn't a cure, & i'm VIGILANT on a daily basis,
b/c my system may just try to fight me & get greedy w/ each & every
calorie.
i don't blame my MO on anyone or anything, but i agree that we are
sedentary society. when i travel, i'm amazed to see people walking to
places. i'm guilty in the 1st degree, maybe it's the stifling miami
weather, maybe it's my couch-loving behind.
oh, & best of luck @ the info seminar, keep us posted.
lori h.
16 1/2 grateful months out

I'm not sure about the others but where did you get the idea that
people received insurance approval before meeting the criteria?
Each company has its own rules but, in my opinion, none of them are
totally unreasonable. They are about to shell out A LOT of money and
they are only asking that they have some reasonable assurance of both
necessity, survivability, and potential for success.
So many of us waited YEARS to reach the point where we decided to
pursue this surgery. Then we want immediate gratification.
Personally, i think that's an unfair and unreasonable expectation.
I know you are frustrated but, hang in there.

Way to Go Wolfie I knew you were loses Girl.I so happy to see the
loses.And Candi I'm never hungry yet but like wolfie you know when
your full and ate a bite to many and it not fun.My nutrition said it
could be up to three months before your new little pouch tells you
your hungry so hang in there You be Great.a friend debkroll of
Iowa,down 36 lbs since Aug 14 too Sept.4,2003. God Bless
everyone.

In a message dated 9/11/2003 6:54:10 AM Central Standard Time,
candiread@... writes:
Full liquid is going down fine so far. However I don't ever
feel hungry or full. Has anyone experienced that?
Candi
Hi Candi,
Yes I felt I was never hungry and had to make myself remember to eat. I
do get full and if I take one bite to many it will come back up. Yes yukky I
know but true. After the first week I slowed down to losing nothing but
yesterday i weighed and lost another five bringing it down to 21 pounds lost and
this
morning, if the scale aint lying I lost another pound or two. So just follow
your diet and do like your suppose to and try not to do like me and get into
an all out brawl with your scales because you arent losing like you think you
should, lol. Skinny Wishes girl!
Wolfie
Lap RNY -August 27,2003
Down 23 pounds
Dr. Lee A. Schmitt
Medical Center East
Wolf

here i go again:
http://www.walkfromobesity.com
lori h.

Hello All!
Could someone let me know if there is a book or pamplet or web site to go to
to get info on PROTIEN...I am tired of the shakes:( Or if there is a book on
meals and cooking now with the gastric bypass....I had my surgery in Feb this
year and am very HAPPY with my weight loss...only 60lbs! but it is enough to
make my back and everything else feel BETTER:) Thanks VERY HAPPY!
VS-38 Ombudsman

hi family. this was emailed to me by one of my local wls friends:
Click here: The American Society for Bariatric Surgery - Walk From
Obesity - Sept. 20, 2003
hope the link works.
lori h.
PS can't make it to the miami walk, i'm in school saturdays 9-6.

Got home yesterday afternoon, but spend most of the day in bed. The
pain was pretty bad for me. But each day is getting better. They
had me on morphine in the hospital until I talked to the doctor and
explained I couldn't think straight let alone try to walk. So
changed me to oxycodone. I have been better since that. No major
problems thus far except that my drain started to leak a bit after I
got home last night. I talked to the doctor and he said it does
happen to some poeple and as long as I have no fever I should be
fine. Full liquid is going down fine so far. However I don't ever
feel hungry or full. Has anyone experienced that?
Candi

Well, I had my Dr appointment on Tuesday. I have never ever heard my
family physician swear before, but by the time I had left he had used
the "f" word and the "s" word several times. He absolutely
recommended the surgery using his words that "It's the only thing
that works at the moment." I was very nervous that he would be one
of the stalwarts and he would be absolutley against it. I was so
relieved when he said that he was sick of "misinformed f***ing
nutrionists, doctors and trainers telling patients to just "push away
from the table and get more excersice. They are just f***ing stupid.
" When he said that, I had a big old grin on my face. He went on to
explain that there are some promising medications in development but
that it could be years down the line. By that time, the damage would
be done from years of wear and tear on a body carrying 100lbs extra
weight. The other impressive thing about the visit was his knowledge
of getting approval for insurance. He was already trying to "find" a
comorbidity to help my process. He is going to get a letter and my
charts and history of previous attempts at managing my weight
together to present to Cigna. I am so excited. Next Tuesday is my
mandatory seminar with the surgical clinic staff. He even
recommended the surgeon I had already contacted as being one of the
best. Lastly, I wanted to share the mos insightful thing my Dr. said
to me at the visit.
He is absolutely convinced that morbid obesity is not so much a
disease as it is a metabolic adaptation. For example, if gravity
were to suddenly reverse itself instantly, humans do not have any
mechanism for maintaining our feet on the ground. There has never
been a need. Conversely, we have many mechanisms adapted over
thousands of years to combat the effects of gravity. From balance to
the design of our skeletal and muscular structure, it is all to keep
us upright against gravity. Now, to lay that against a metabolic
example, for thousands of years humans have been fundamentally
starving. It was a constant battle to find, forage, hunt, and kill
food. So our bodies have adapted with that generational history to
favor a metabolism that protects from starvation. A hording
metabolism. It is only in the last 50+ years that the western world
has experienced obesity. The abundance and convenience of food in
the west is something our bodies and metabolisms are not prepared
for, like the reversal of gravity. Until we can find a way to
trigger mechanisms that overcome our starvation metabolisms, obesity
is not going to vanish with a little excercise and eating healthy.
It will require genetic and chemical manipulation of our bodies
metabolism.
THanks for listening.
A.J.

Anna,
Maybe bringing him to a support group .. and telling him this is only a tool
tohelp us lose the weight and help us learn a new lifestyle. It is not a diet
as diets do not work for us. We need to change our life. I have a friend .. who
is my best friend .. when she found out that I was going tohave this surgery,
she told someone that she couldnt support me in this, because I would never
appreciate it .. because I would not have " worked" at it.
She was so ill informed on the whole process. I was very hurt that she had said
this, and actually didnt talk to her for a while because of it. I knew I
needed her support, because we were so close. I brought her to a support group
meeting, she heard alot of things.. I also sent her alot of information on what
the procedure intailed. This helped her understand, that if i didnt work at it,
didnt do what I was told to do, or chose not to change my life to living
healthier it wouldnt work. She is now one of the best supports I have ,
sometimes to thepoint where she nags me. "Did you walk today? did you go to the
gym today .. you know you need to keep active ..Did you remember to eat .. did
you get enough protein today".. lol ... Some times I just want to tell her to go
away :) but know that she is just trying to be supportive and keep me
motivated. Just remmeber also, you are doing this for you.. not for anyone else.
You are the one who wants to change the path you are on right
now.
Take care
Ruth
Post op Open RNY
386/204/???
Oct 29, 2002
MA
annadammmit@... wrote:
Hi Everyone,
I'm new to here, my best friend Tosh was the one who told me about this
group. I'm trying to find a way to have this surgery. I really need some
positive
info too... my father is very opposed to me having this surgery, and refuses to
be supportive at all. When I decided that this is what I wanted to do, I sent
both of my parents an email explaining why I feel I need this surgery and I
know what I'll be going through and how I'll have to change my life because
I've seen Tosh go through this whole process. My dad is adamant that I haven't
exhausted every available option to lose the weight, and wants to be my weight
loss coach, mind you, he weighs almost 300 lbs himself, being the expert he is
on weight loss. I've tried talking to him, but it's like he totally shuts his
freaking ears and refuses to listen, all because one of his friends, his
daughter had stomach stapling years ago, and I dunno if she had it undone, or
just
didn't do like she was supposed to, cause she put all her weight plus some
back on, and so he says I'll do that too, that this is only good for rapid short
term weight loss. Any advice on getting him to at least listen without
physically cracking his skull so it can get through?
Anna
In a message dated 9/10/2003 10:46:55 AM Eastern Standard Time,
cristi.n.aliester@... writes:

I really wouldn't worry. You're only 3 weeks postop. I went through the exact
same worries and concerns you're going through. In fact, I think I posted
this earlier to someone that I drove myself crazy by weighing myself all the
time
when I was early into my postop recovery. You just can't do that to yourself.
Your body is going to plateu. You can't prevent it. It has to catch up with
the weight loss. Once, I was stuck and my weight remained the same for almost 2
months. Losing 20 lbs in 3 weeks is a lot. Most can't lose 10 in 6 weeks
normally. You're already losing it twice as fast. Actually, I'm pretty
surprised
@ 3 weeks you're already eating tuna and stuff. I wasn't eating solids until I
was about 2 mos postop.
As for the water and protein .... YOU HAVE TO DO IT! There's no way around
it. If you don't want your muscles to totally deteriorate, your hair fall out,
and get dehydrated all the time, you have to drink the water, you have to get
in the protein! You don't have to gulp the water down. Remember, you cannot
drink liquids like you used to do. You have to take sips. Keep a water bottle or
a bottle of Crystal Lite around with you at all times. It needs to be your new
best friend. Just constantly take small drinks all throughout your day --
eventually, you'll get to the point where getting all your water down (and then
some) will be a easy task.
Don't try to rush the progress hon. All postops know this isn't a miracle
surgery. You just don't turn instantly thin overnight. It will take time -- your
body has to adjust to the weight loss so that you're losing quickly .. but
safely. When the scale isn't budging and you know you're doing everything like
you're supposed to be doing .. just take a DEEP breath in and say to yourself,
"It's okay. I've just started my weight loss journey. I WILL succeed." Then,
listen to some soothing music, go play with the kiddos or take a walk with the
hubby. It can only relax you and help you lose the weight. YOU CAN DO IT!
I went through the exact same woes and fears...and I still lost the weight.
YOU WILL TOO! Don't stress. Keep on doing everything exactly as your Dr. tells
you to do. Stay positive. It'll happen for ya ...
Oh yeah, Happy early 27th Birthday!
What a wonderful gift you have given yourself!
Tosh
Atlanta, Ga
08.28.02 postop
313/160/135
In a message dated 9/10/03 8:03:35 PM Eastern Daylight Time,
cw1297@... writes:

i have not had the surgery yet i am on their email group and this doctor has
had only one death in 2000 surgeries. I thought it was very safe. Thanks for
the information i will look it up. I thought this was something new??? Anyways
thanks

I dont know if anyone here in Miami has heard of a gym called Curves
but they are all over the US 6500 actually its a great program easy
and fun. Well I joined yesterday and today was my 1st workout and it
was great. The total workout last 30 hour and you only do this 3
times a week. Its great, I am working out 2 times a day now. I go to
the gym at my job every morning and I do cardio only for 30-45
minutes and then at night I do more toning, If anyone here is in
Miami let me know so I can give you all the info.
Vanessa

hi Christina.
I am at a stand still too. I have not lost any weight in over a week and I am 3
weeks post op too. I am frustrated as you are and feel failure. I hae started
walking a mile per day to see if that helps. I emailed my doc and he told me to
eat 3 meals per day even if they are small. Make sure I get my protein shakes
and my water. I love the Raspberry Peach crystal light. That is really the only
way I can get my water. I hate the protein, but put it in a little lactaid milk
and it is great.
My doc says that I am not at a stand still, but more less my body is trying to
catch up with the 20 lbs that I have lost, to not get frustrated and I told him
that it is hard to not get upset about it. I am worried that this is all the
weight i am going to lose, but he assures me that it is not and for me to take a
chill pill. lol..:)
he is a great doc. I never have been to a doctor where they give you their
personal email address so that if you have any questions you can ask him
directly. he get back to you within the same day. I am very lucky.
Becky
Laprny 8-15-03
246/225/ 135

Dear Psalm,
I usually never do this, but the fact that you are having the MGB scares me.
Are you scheduled or just starting out on your journey? This surgery that
you're considering is only performed by one surgeon in the country, and it's
not because he's so talented, but rather because the surgery is NOT
RECOMMENDED anymore. That surgery is an outmoded one with many tragic
results. If you do research on the ASBS.org site (the American Society of
Bariatric Surgeons), you can type mini gastric bypass or mgb in their
browser bar and you will get all the information you could want on it.
However, it is clear that the medical community considers this surgery risky
and outmoded. You may (or may not) want to do further research before you
commit yourself to this procedure. I just wanted to make you aware of this.
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
386/235/165
BMI 60/34.7/24
-151
-92.5"
Angel to Bill, Debbie (10/14/03) Ilene, Roy, and Ro

I need advice. I am 3 weeks post op and I seem to be stuck. I have
been on 314 to 315 for almost a week. I have been trying to follow
the diet. I don't eat hardly anything. I have failed to drink the
protien drinks as I should, but I try to make up for it by eating
high protien foods such as tuna, salmon, ect. I am unable to drink
the water I need, for some reason water makes me very sick to my
stomach. I have tried mixing it with Chrystal lite and it helps
some, but not enough to get down all I should. I am so depressed I
know I have lost 20 lbs since surgery and that is great, I couldn't
have done it without surgery. I am so grumpy, I'm biting peoples
head off for little things. I am not this kind of person. I am so
stressed out. I was so excited when I could see my progress on the
scale, but now I feel like a failure. Can someone please help me. I
want this to work. I will be 27 years old Friday. I have three
beautiful kids and a wonderful husband. I want to be able to go
places and not be ashamed. I want to feel like playing with my kids.
Help me please, I need the advice of people who have been where I
am. Thanks a bunch.
Christina

I have Bc/Bs of Michigan and Texas insurance. They wouldn't approve
me until they got all the paper work in. How did you guys get
approve with out going to the meetings and having the test done. I
have tried to talk to my insurance for months and they won't talk to
me until they say I meet there requirtments. I have been thru the
mill. In this order I have gone to my family doctor to get the
surgery started, Blood work, Sleep disorder Doctor, Blood work
again, Sleep Disorder hospital, Dietitian, Stress Test, Phycrictric,
Heart Catheterization, Sleep Disorder again (C-pap), Curves, The
surgeon, Colonoscopy, And another Doctor to be in the hospital with
me after surgery. My doctors all said I should have this surgery.
But I haven't been approve yet. Now with the rumors of Bc/Bs being
changed I don't know if they will approve me. I wish someone would
talk to me on this. The surgeon insurance accountant won't talk to
me either. I don't have the letter to some of the doctors. I told
the insurance company I would send it in myself. But they said the
surgeon has to do it.
Joyce
11/12/03
290/274/??

Joyce,
Please don't mark this in stone, but to the best of knowledge it may depend on
what kind of insurance it is. Do you have an HMO or PPO. I have bc/bs of
Illinois but they are just the group of Doctors that I use. My insurance is
still managed by my husbands union insurance company. They have a committee that
makes the decisions as to whether or not a surgery should be done etc. They meet
every two weeks and vote on these type of cases one by one. So in my instance
it's not really a matter of bc/bs saying it's approved or not. My surgeon will
send the request to the "union insurance committee" who will/will not allow the
surgery.
I too, have had to jump through all the hoops. I have had the stress test
(4hours for that one) blood work a few times. Attended lectures, pulmonary check
and you know the list goes on. As bothersome as they may seem, it is for our own
safety and surgeons concern that we are required to do all of these things. I
guess in a way I look at it as it's not alot to ask me to do in order to get
what I want and need, the surgery.
Joy <joy_ms@...
I have Bc/Bs of Michigan and Texas insurance. They wouldn't approve
me until they got all the paper work in. How did you guys get
approve with out going to the meetings and having the test done. I
have tried to talk to my insurance for months and they won't talk to
me until they say I meet there requirements. I have been thru the
mill. In this order I have gone to my family doctor to get the
surgery started, Blood work, Sleep disorder Doctor, Blood work
again, Sleep Disorder hospital, Dietitian, Stress Test, Phycrictric,
Heart Catheterization, Sleep Disorder again (C-pap), Curves, The
surgeon, Colonoscopy, And another Doctor to be in the hospital with
me after surgery. My doctors all said I should have this surgery.
But I haven't been approve yet. Now with the rumors of Bc/Bs being
changed I don't know if they will approve me. I wish someone would
talk to me on this. The surgeon insurance accountant won't talk to
me either. I don't have the letter to some of the doctors. I told
the insurance company I would send it in myself. But they said the
surgeon has to do it.
Joyce
11/12/03
290/274/??

Since walking and getting up is a part of the whole
receovery, it seems like if you only have yourself to
take care of, you don't really need anybody to help
out. Cleaning house, etc, but these are things that
can be done ahead of time.

welcome to the family, anna. surgery can be a frightening prospect
for our loved ones, it's the universal fear of the unknown. my hubb
of 4 months was petrified of losing me, the uncertainty was too much.
but i took him to a support meeting so he could hear the glowing
testimonials & there was even someone who spoke of a complication
leading to weeks in the ICU, but she was still thrilled about her
choice.
as for your dad, how long ago was the "stomach stapling" of the person
he knows? wls, thankfully, has evolved.
keep posting.
you're new, so here's my broken record: only YOU know what it's like
to walk a mile in your shoes.
lori h.
16 grateful months out

Hi All~~
I have to chime in on the libido part!! I am a 37 yo,
7 month post-op. I have lost 90#'s with 8-18 to go...
I have discovered the libido that I never really
had!!! I am insatiable!! It's amazing the difference
in me... the periods did change a bit, as well. I have
found they are slightly closer together, sometimes as
much as 4-5 days a cycle! Always had cramps, before
during, and after the weight loss. :-(
HTH~~
Sharon in Houston
238/148/130
Lap-RNY 2/4/03

CONGRATS on your approval!
Anna
In a message dated 9/10/2003 1:49:18 PM Eastern Standard Time,
coprhed@... writes:

Hi Everyone,
I'm new to here, my best friend Tosh was the one who told me about this
group. I'm trying to find a way to have this surgery. I really need some
positive
info too... my father is very opposed to me having this surgery, and refuses to
be supportive at all. When I decided that this is what I wanted to do, I sent
both of my parents an email explaining why I feel I need this surgery and I
know what I'll be going through and how I'll have to change my life because
I've seen Tosh go through this whole process. My dad is adamant that I haven't
exhausted every available option to lose the weight, and wants to be my weight
loss coach, mind you, he weighs almost 300 lbs himself, being the expert he is
on weight loss. I've tried talking to him, but it's like he totally shuts his
freaking ears and refuses to listen, all because one of his friends, his
daughter had stomach stapling years ago, and I dunno if she had it undone, or
just
didn't do like she was supposed to, cause she put all her weight plus some
back on, and so he says I'll do that too, that this is only good for rapid short
term weight loss. Any advice on getting him to at least listen without
physically cracking his skull so it can get through?
Anna
In a message dated 9/10/2003 10:46:55 AM Eastern Standard Time,
cristi.n.aliester@... writes:

OMG you guys - i got approved for the gastric bypass surgery. They denied
me initially and i kept hitting them with information and the last thing i
sent out i included a family photo so it makes me wonder if that made a
difference. my date is sept 22nd and i go to a teaching class with hubby on
the 15th and pre-op on the 16th ---- i'm so excited - scared too but i know
i can't go on like i am.
i'm also scared something will show up pre-op to set me back - they
mentioned how they like you to lose weight b4 and they don't want to see a
gain between last visit and this one and i know i gained but i have tons of
fluid - just started lasix.
i've already made one good change - i stopped soft drinks about a week or
two ago and started drinking the flavored water you mention but i'm curious
- propel has some sugar and others are carbonated and i thought we couldn't
have that? also - does anybody have questions that need to be asked when i
see the dr....i think i do want him to take my gallbladder out while in
there if he will.
This doesn't seem real.
Tanya
visit our website
www.geocities.com/tanyarn96/countryside.html

Hello all,
My name is Samantha I am new to this site.
I have checked out a few times. Well, I had
my surgery exactly 3 weeks ago. I had Lap RNY
Proximal. So far I have lost 34 pounds. The first
week I lost 19 pounds. I have been stuck for almost
a week now..I am getting very anxious..I want it to
speed up again. Do you think my weight is coming off
at a good pace? Just getting a little worried here.
Thanks:O)

Thank you Brian. I think if I let him read my letter and talked to
him he will endorse my trying all my diets. He's a good guy and
said he'd do what he could to help me get approved. I don't expect
him to lie just believe me. Thank you again.
Chelle
279 pre-op

Misti
I am allergy to Soy bean. So I have to have Whey protein drink. I
bought mine at Rite Aid Drug Store. They have all kinds and I bought
a large jug for $19.97. I bought the Vanilla and it taste great. My
surgeon told me to mix 1/4 cup powder milk, with 1 cup of skin milk
a scoop of protein and ice blend well and it really taste like a
vanilla milk shake. They have all favors. Plus they have liquid
vitamins there too. The sales woman helped me out. Good Luck.
Joyce
11/12/03

Yes. In fact, my doctor said I could mix it with 1% but not to go
any higher than that

Shannon,
I would of told them she might not be around until she is 60 or 70.
That is what I told my parents. When I finally told them I was going
to have this surgery. I told them to look they are in there 70s and
80s yes, but both of them have heart trouble, one has diabetes, high
blood pressure, high Colesteral and my mother can't walk cause of
her knees. Do they really want their kids to go thru the pain they
went thru. I don't want my kids to go thru the pain I went thru
watching my parents in pain. From being over weight. The price they
pay for all the pills to stay alive. IF I can stop this from
happening to me I am going to do it right NOW. God has given us a
chance to go on with our life and live it to the fullest. Let us
have the tool to do it with. As far as for my husband he is not
really for this but he knows how I feel and he said he would stand
beside me 100%. He is learning everything he can to help me. If they
love her they will let her live.
Joyce
11/12/03

Can someone please help me find the long term effects of the gastric bypass
surgery? Like how your health is affected 20 years down the road? I found
this site: http://www.midhosp.org/health/gastric/ but it doesn't tell me a
lot, and I can't seem to find much of anything anywhere else. My best friend
in the whole world is trying to have this surgery done, and her husband and
in-laws are very uninformed and very against the whole idea. I'm trying to
find all the positive things I can find. I even sent them the letter to
significant others on the gastricbypassfamily website and got an email back
saying "i don't care, this is a bad idea, i'll be against it until i know
what happens when you're 60 or 70 years old".
Please please help...I know my friend wants this surgery, but if her husband
has his way, she's going to end up going to an early grave instead. Thanks
Shannon in Indiana

A woman in my local support group had the bypass 15 years ago. She has told
us that the only ill side-effect she experienced was a couple umbilical hernias
over a period of something like 10 years. She's still very thin and hasn't
experienced any abnormalities. She was thirty when she had the surgery -- and
still looks like she's in her 30's, 15 years later.
Tosh
Atlanta, Ga
08.28.02
313/160/135
In a message dated 9/10/03 10:46:56 AM Eastern Daylight Time,
cristi.n.aliester@... writes:

Well, I am looking forward to that day.....my severe cramping has been blamed on
my being overweight and the birth control pills get my blood pressure up, so I
have stopped taking them, so the cramping has come back. So definitely can't
wait till I am on the losing team!
Carol Matar
Pre-Op
10/30/03

you're gonna make it. re-focusing & re-assessing is part of the
journey.
lori h.

had to weigh in on this one. before wls, i was fairly regular & had
cramps only twice a year that lasted 45 minutes.
i'm approaching 17 months out, have only had cramps ONCE that lasted
15 minutes. voila!
lori h.

Thanks Guys you guys make me feel alot better. Really I waited along
time for this surgery and I really need it. I can hardly walk now
with knee trouble from the weight. Thanks for the info. You guys are
the greatest. Keep being the family we all need.
Joyce
11/12/03

hi everyone,
i have a quick question does anyone know of liquid protien ...i know
i have seen some ppl mention it ...where can i find it ...even if it
tastes bad ??? please let me know if u have any information on
this .Misti

Good Morning to everyone. Hope everyone has a great day and losses
lots of weight.
I have been stuck for awhile now but I started on Monday been really
good and drinking lots of water and I will report my progress on
Friday. Thanks Deb and Lori and everyone else for all your tips and
knowledge.
Vanessa

Hi all!
Well I know I just got back to NY from a road trip to Los Angeles a
few short weeks ago, but I am ready to go again. This time....I want
to stop and meet anyone willing from this group!!! I am going to
jump on a Greyhound bus cause driving will be too tiring and when I
leave....I dont care if I ever come back.
This is the start of my new life!!! I layed down
in bed many nights.....wondering "What if"
and "If given a chance, what would I do". I am done asking those
questions and ready to take action.
I am hoping that I will be ready to start by say November 1st at the
latest.
If anyone is intersted in meeting "BIGjake316", let me know. I hope
many (all) of you give me the opportunity. Even though I have not
posted much recently, I do read all the posts and hold a very special
place in my heart for all of you.
Jake

Deb,
thanks so much for replying ..i will stay on top of the liquid
thing ....take care hun Misti

I was on my period when I went in for the surgery. Called to make sure
it was ok and they said it was no problem. Just do not wear a tampon.
They will give you the hospital feminine pad to use (little hard to keep
in place with no undies) and they will put some of those blue pad things
down on the bed to keep from being messy. It turned out to be less of a
problem than I had thought it would be.
Sandi