Gastric Bypass

I couldn't get the web site to work either, so I called Lane Bryant via the
1800 number on their site. They wouldnt give me the free shipping, but I still
got each jacket for $9.99
~ami~

thank you for the answer to my question! i didnt think about the amount per
ounce duhhhhhhhhhh lol there is soooo much to learn! i ordered samples of
different protein powders to try and also bought some from walmart to try too. i
have heard that your taster changes after surgery so not sure if this was a good
thing to do or not!!
Tracey

when i 1st underwent wls (almost 17 months ago), i decided to be
neutral like switzerland---to neither persuade or dissuade people from
surgery, b/c it is a MAJOR decision.
i have a sister who expressed interest so i discussed the good, bad &
the ugly with her.
now i'm finding myself trying to persuade someone in my life to go for
it. i know (so does he) how much better life would be w/out the
weight. i'm happy to help/influence (he's seen my transformation)
him, but another part of me says that he has the right to his own
self-determination(an idea hammered into me in social work classes).
seems to me that we met for a reason, it was no accident.
should i butt the bleep out?
lori h.

Ok Connie I'm so Happy for you and Wish and pray your surgery go
wonderful and soon hear I'm losing and I'm down 25 or more
lbs .Congraduation and I be praying and keeping you in my
thought's.God Be with and see ya on the Losing side of your New and
Wonderful LIFE.a friend debkroll of Iowa.Update comes tomorrow.And
PS Remember Walk Walk & Walk will help a great deal and Your water
intake.God Be With you every step of the
way.

I'm another Connie on the list, from Alabama. I need everyone's
good wishes and prayers for me on Thursday, when I expect to become
a loser. I've gotten so much from the good folks here, I want to
say thank you to all of you. The support here is unlike anywhere
else. I'll post when I get back home, thanks from Birmingham.
cmi517

Charlotte,
Are you sure it was caffeine you were told to stay away from and not
carbonation? Carbonation can stretch our pouches but caffeine doesn't
have any effect on them. Just on your moods lol. Just wondering.
Tanya T.
432/370/170
Lap RNY 6/20/03

One ounce of meat contains 7 grams of protein. To meet your goal of
60 grams, you would have to eat 8 and 1/2 ounces of protein per day,
and most people can't do that, at least at first. That's why the
supplements are used so frequently. Hope this helps.
Connie
preop 9/17/03
open rny

I haven't been around for awhile but, I need some advice and I know
this would be the best place to get it. I am getting VERY disgusted
and down hearted and need some advice to pick me up again. I had my
open RNY on 2/26/03 and have struggled to date to lose 63 pounds. I
really thought when I had this surgery all my years of hard core
dieting would be over but, I am finding this to be wrong. I started
out at 276 lbs and now am 213. Don't get me wrong, I am ever so
thankful for what I have lost because I feel GREAT but, one of the
reasons I stopped coming in this forum and am about to stop going to
my local support meetings is disappointment in myself due to hearing
others with less time out having lost way more weight than I. I
belive I am doing everything correct-you guys tell me: I am eating
<1000 calories a day, 75-100 gms of protein, <25 fat gms, 40-70
carbs,96 ozs or more water, NO sugar, LOW sodium, I work out @ Curves
everyday @ lunch, and walk no less than 1 mile or ride a bike for 1-2
miles in the evening.I have bounced around with eating 3 regular
meals to 6 tiny meals about 3 hours apart-switching back and forth
trying to break plateaus. Believe me, I have STRUGGLED to lose what I
have lost so far and I do NOT consider it to have been easy. Now, I
am starting to feel hungry now and again-the first time since the
surgery. I did go thru a bought of vomiting every time I had a bowel
movement and am wondering if I have done some damage internally. Does
anyone have some suggestions? I am about at my wits end with this!
ANY help will be appreciated!!

Deb,
Thank you so much for giving me another alternative. I think I am
going to give him a call. You know what I am wondering, now that you
bring this up, is that my surgeon, Dr. Kowalski, just finished his
fellowship at a hospital in New Brunswick. I'm wondering if he
didn't train under your doctor? I wonder if there is any way to find
out?? I want to see what the outcome is of the hospital review, and
see what Dr. K says about what happened to me. I still trust him as
a surgeon, I'm just worried about the hospital/anesthesiologist. But
if I get no resolution, I am definately calling your doctor,
princeton is probably as close to temple as me!!
Thanks Deb, you are the best.

Hello, I am also pre op and what a pain in the neck this has been. I keep
pushing though, ever feel like you have to have ALL the comorbidities? I have
been followed by my PCP for over a year changing and increasing my synthroid (i
have hypothyroid) and told to follow a low carb low sugar plan (not atkins) for
decreasing levels of cholesterol and glucose, which means I have been weighed
and supervised regularly. I lost 3# and gained3.5# in that time, I was denied
for lack of evidence of 6 mos physician supervised weight loss. What the heck
is that? I will continue to push until I get a date.
Best of luck to you
Nailnatzie

PAM!!!!! So glad to see you back. I've missed your postings lately.
I'm so sorry I missed visiting with you at the hospital. If you need anything
at all, you can always give me a call.
What is it that you are drinking? If there is a high sugar content that could
be affecting the dumping.
Diana

Dear Lisa,
You may recall that you're not that far from me. Why not check out my
surgeon (you can check out his reputation through ASBS (he was their
president for a couple of years) and he has a website that I can give you
the link to. Ordinarily, he had a six month wait for consult with another
6-8 month wait for surgery but he has just gone on his own (don't get
nervous, he's got 24 years experience specializing in bariatrics -- he's not
one who just jumped on the band wagon), he's done over 3000 of these
surgeries and has a partner who was trained with one of the other best
surgeons in the country. Since they've just gone into private practice
together and they are operating out of two hospitals, the wait time has been
dramatically cut down. Also, he's the guy that most surgeons who don't want
to handle tough cases refer their cases to. The national average of
mortality rate is .05% but my surgeon's rate is .018% (way, way less than
the national average). He (Dr. Robert Brolin) and Dr. Tichansky (his
partner) are operating out of St. Peters University Hospital in New
Brunswick and Princeton Hospital in Princeton. (The Princeton Hospital, I
hear, is phenomenal with our group because they really had to woo him to get
him there, so they've got an entirely new operating suite dedicated to us,
new "big boy" beds, specially trained nurses, etc. You might want to give
this some thought.
Here's the link to his website. You can get all or most of your questions
answered there:
http://www.njbariatricspc.com
Good luck with whatever you choose to do, but here's another option for you.
It's worth the phone call because I spoke to the office last week for
someone else and was told that as soon as they get your insurance approval,
you are placed on the schedule for surgery and since you've already been
approved, you would just transfer the approval to his name and you're good
to go.
Dear Jony,
Welcome to the group. I'm glad you jumped in with your post to Lisa as you
did. Anyway, I just wanted you to know that I think you won't even be
dependent on diabetic oral meds either. I was on 100 units of insulin daily
and, since my surgery, only had to take insulin 3 times in half doses the
first month following my surgery and nothing since (and I was a year two
weeks ago!). Something definitely to look forward to. Also, watch for
signs of your sugar levels dipping too low. You may not realize when you
should be stopping the meds, so be careful with it. I wish you loads 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
386/235/165
BMI 60/34.7/24
-151
-92.5"
Angel to Bill, Debbie (10/14/03) Ilene, Roy, and Ro

Hi ya,
I just wanted to let you all know I have been home since Thursday. I have not
updated you all yet because I am having good and bad days. Plus it is heck
getting up and down the steps to get to my puter.
I just wanted to let you all know I had a great hospital stay. The Nurses were
great. (some reason I had men nurses. some cute ones too...lol) Hubby was with
me the whole time only went home to shower and take care of my baby's, (Kitty's
and doggies) The recovery room was the only thing that really sucked. I had my
surgery at 7:30am and was in recovery by 10:45am and was still in there at 3:30.
I woke up and ask why was I still in recovery? Then in the distance I could hear
the nurse on the phone saying I was asking why was I still here. I knew my hubby
would be out of his mind because he was told I would only be there for an hour
or two at the most. The worst thing of all was the tube they had in my nose that
lead to my new pouch. My throat and ear was in great pain. I tried to walk and
got so dizzy. When the tub came out I could have done a happy dance....instead
my fingers did a happy dance for me because body was not willing.
I have a couple question for all. Did any of you all have problems with
drinking? I drink water and others liquids and I get this bad bubble felling in
my lower stomach at least I think that is where it is. On some days I dump
everything and other days I do great. I am eating the same thing from day to day
right now. My husband keeps getting on me for not eating enough. I am eating 1/2
cup at every meal. Is this enough or not? I have a doctor apt tomorrow to get my
staples out so that will help too.
I hope all are doing great. I have really missed reading from you all. WOW...I
get to put post-op behind my name now.
Have a great one
Pam C
New Orleans
East Jefferson Hospital
Dr Gachassin
Post-op
9/8/03

Heather, I tried to order the jacket you were talking about. I could not get
the item # to come up? What did I do wrong? i had item # as 29-59789-1038?
Thanks LeAnn

Does anyone know if gnc makes a good chewable multivitamin that 100%
of its RDA?
Allan

i keep seeing people talk about how hard it is to get in enough
protein. was wondering if you can drink a 4-6 oz shake cant you hold
1-2 oz of meat or other high protein food? the general amount is 60
grams that equals a little over 2 oz. is this amount not managable? i
havent had surgery yet still waiting on approval and just trying to
figure out what i should do! thanks
Tracey

welcome, jony. excellent progress! reducing your meds is a giant
step forward.
lori h.

welcome aboard, janell. no IBS here. but if you don't watch what you
eat as a post-op, your tooter will go into overdrive. blaming the
dogs helps.
lori h.

Hi my name is Janell, I am fairly new to the support group. I have IBS or
Spastic Colon. Does anyone know if this gets better after surgery?
thanks,
:)
Janell

Hi y'all,
Sorry I ranted without introducing myself. My name is Jony. I had the
Lap RNY on 7/21/03 and have lost 34 lbs. I'm a retired nurse, who is
now in residential real estate development in the hills of Mississippi.
Born and reared in New Orleans. I love food, as we all do, so this has
been a huge adjustment for me. I've learned a lot about what I can and
cannot tolerate through trial and error. And let me tell you that can
be painful. I've had to be scoped and my stoma dilated once.
I am an insulin dependent diabetic. Since my surgery my insulin needs
have been cut in half and I foresee eventually relying only on oral
medication. I am more physically active and hope to be able to do more
than water aerobics in the near future.
I can't say I'd recommend this procedure for everyone with a weight
problem, but if you have serious weight related health issues like
myself and have been unsuccessful in losing, it may save your life.
Thank you all for this wonderful support group.
Jony
aka "Lena"

I am appalled! I'm a nurse and I am 7 weeks post-op Lap Roux en Y. You
should have been out when they intubated you with the correct size. I
would tell my surgeon and medical doctor that you need a different
anesthesiologist. There is no excuse for that.
Sorry to rant. But there is no reason you should have been traumatized
like that.
Jony
Lap RNY
7/21/03
aka "Lena"

My Bariatric clinic had a cheaper solution. We were all given a pair
of kitchen tongs. They were long with scissor handles. The tips
were turned up at an angle and rubber coated. I think they're
standard Walmart issue. Be sure to get rid of them after you no
longer need them though, so they don't wind up on the barbeque, lol,
yuck!
Jill- Louisiana
Open RNY 8/7/03
299/269/145

Connie,
Best of luck to you in your journey tommorrow! We are all so excited
for you and will keep you in our thoughts all day!! Let us know when
you are home how you are doing! We can't wait to hear!
Trish

http://www.dynamic-living.com/bottom_buddy.htm
THis is for all you preops. You will more than likely need
assistance after surgery wiping yourself.
It is expensive to me, but had I known about it before hand I most
certainly would have bought it just to keep my husband from having
to wipe me with all his gagging. lol.......lol....lol.....
Becky
246/222/135
8/15/03
Lap RNY
Dr. Atul Madan-Memphis, TN

Happy Birthday!!! I hope that your consult is a wonderful belated
birthday present for ya!!! We can't wait to have you on the Losing
Side! In the meantime - CELEBRATE your last birthday as your former
self!! Next year will be amazing!
Trish

Congraduation Chelle I have you in my prayers and Thoughts tomorrow
for a wonderful and quick recovery.God Bless and see ya on the
losing side.a friend debkroll of
Iowa.

If this drink gives you a lot of energy, is it because it contains a
lot of caffeine? Caffeine is something I was told to stay away from.
Just wondering.
Charlotte
9-24-03

THOSE SURGERY DAYS COME ALOT FASTER THAN YOU THINK. MINE WAS HERE BEFORE I
KNEW IT AND I AM SOOOO HAPPY IT DID. GOOD LUCK TO YOU :)
HUGS, ROBIN, NY
Age- 41
TTC#4 -
OPEN RNY
10-18-02
378/246/170???
DR.EDWARD HIXSON
SARANAC LAKE, NY
Mom to:
Benjamin & Jonathan
7 1/2 year twin boys and
Madison age 4 1/2 yrs.
Miscarraige August 2001
Miscarraige August 2003
Married to Pup:
15 years this
Halloween : )

GOOD LUCK AND A SPEEDY RECOVERY TOO YOU. THIS WILL BE THE BEGINNING OF
SOMETHING WONDERFUL FOR YOU :)
ROBIN, NEW YORK
AGE-41
OPEN RNY
OCT. 18TH, 2002
DR. EDWARD HIXSON
SARANAC LAKE, NY
378/246/170???
132 LBS GONE FOREVER : )
What a GREAT feeling : )

I'm not sure it's really sunk in yet, but tomorrow morning at 7 am I
will be having my surgery! I'm excited and a little scared. But I
have gotten such great support from you folks---and I appreciate it
so much. Can't wait to see you on the losing side!
Connie
preop 9/17/03
open rny

Dont give up. Ask you Doctor about putting you out first. I was out
when all of the tubes ET , NG and the foley cath. and the central IV
line where all in when i woke up.

Well, I have my consult tomorrow (Weds). Too bad it wasn't today (my
39th birthday). I'm looking forward to finally starting my life as a
loser. I am bringing with my 4 years worth of weight charts from TOPS
as well as my complete medical history. Based upon what I've heard,
it will probably be sometime mid next year before I can have the
surgery...he's the only one my insurance will cover. I just remind
myself how much healthier I'll be when I turn 40 next year...probably
the one and only time I'll be looking forward to a birthday :-)
Wish me luck.
Robin
Wisconsin

So the problem was putting you under? They should have had you under before they
started to stick a tube down your throat....I have a gagging reflex so I would
probably have the same reaction....I am so sorry....don't give up....keep
strong!
Carol Matar

Hi everyone,
Well, I am back home without surgery. They were unable to intubate
me. I am so upset, it was not a good experience at all. They took
me into the operating room, and I was supposed to be in a "twilight"
between consciousness and unconsciousness. They said they don't want
to put you fully under until they have the tube in. They shot some
sort of numbing agent into my throat, I have about 5 holes and a big
bruise on my neck. I remember feeling like I was drowning on the
fluid they gave me. Then they started putting the tube down my
throat, and it hurt and felt like I was choking. I remember trying
to tell them to stop, and they just kept trying. Finally they did
stop and cancelled the surgery for today.
I guess I have the option to reschedule, but I'm not sure if I can go
thru with that again. Did anyone else have this experience? I've
never heard of this before, and was not expecting it at all. Maybe I
just got a bad anesthiologist?
I am so depressed, it is hard to get to this point and then feel like
a failure. I wish I was back at the hospital and my surgery was done
so I could get to the losing side with the rest of you.
Lisa

michelle, no drinking w/ meals has been challenging, but it's
necessary. according to a surgeon (& my research) drinking w/ meals
will lead to WEIGHT GAIN. no uglier words in the English language,
or any language.
lori h.

I go tomorrow to start my ride on my journey. My dh will come with
me and hopefully ask the questions I may forget. I've had
laproscopic (sp?) surgery before so I know what to expect there. I
had a drain and everything. Anyway, I am a bit excited and nervous
at the same time. LOL I'll let you know how it went. What she
says.
Chelle pre-op 279

In a message dated 9/15/2003 11:34:26 PM Central Standard Time,
funmomof2@... writes:
Ok, silly me, but I have a question about this water and eating
thing. I know I'm supposed to stop drinking 30 min before eating and
not resume again for 30 minutes after, however, I can not eat
without drinking. What is the deal about this? Why do we have this
rule? I take little sips of water while eating and I have not had
any problems. I am getting my proteins in daily as well as my water.
Can someone clear me up on this one?
Thanks a bunch!
Michelle,
If I'm not mistaken the food has to remain in the new tummy so that the
necessary nutrients can be absorbed what can be anyway. If you drink it washes
it on out and all is lost in the way of what you need to absorb from it. Hope
this helps.
Wolfie
Lap Rny...August 27,2003
Dr. Lee A. Schmitt
Birmingham, Alabama
Keep 'Em Laughing!

Ok, silly me, but I have a question about this water and eating
thing. I know I'm supposed to stop drinking 30 min before eating and
not resume again for 30 minutes after, however, I can not eat
without drinking. What is the deal about this? Why do we have this
rule? I take little sips of water while eating and I have not had
any problems. I am getting my proteins in daily as well as my water.
Can someone clear me up on this one?
Thanks a bunch!
Michelle

Hi Robin,
My doctor is Dr. Kakahoude at USC Hospital in Los Angeles. I've been through
their seminars and they seem to be excellent doctors. Where did you have your
surgery?
Chris
<<Message: 19
Date: Mon, 15 Sep 2003 16:51:48 -0700
From: "Robin Orwoll"
Subject: Welcome Chris
Welcome Chris where do you live in S. Calif and who is your doctor ? I grew
up in Arcadia but have lived in Bass Lake now for 24 years. I have alot of
family in your area one sister who could really use this surg.
However she has not decided if this is for her yet. I pray she will. Your
surg will be Tuesday this is great
which hospital ? Think positive and everything will be great !
Robin O - Calif
211-133-???
Dec 5 2002

Good evening to all,
Omar and I have finally got all the info for our get together in
Central Florida. We will be meeting on this Sunday, Sept. 21st at
Bennigan's in Altamonte Springs (off of 436) at 4:00pm
Anyone who is pre/post op is welcome to attend and to bring a
spouse/significant other. I need to know if you will be there ASAP,
so email me to let me know.
We are hoping for a large crowd so we can make some new friends. Look
forward to hearing from you.
Thanks,
Dawn
Wife of a Loser

Hi Dana!
I emailed you direct! I'd love to be surgery buddies. How awesome!
hugs,
Chris
Pre-op 286
Lap RNY 09/23/03
<<Message: 7
Date: Sun, 14 Sep 2003 22:19:33 -0700 (PDT)
From: Dana E <psychedup32@...
Subject: Re: Intro-Chris
Chris!! We have the same date!! I'm scheduled for lap RNY at 12:00 noon
on 9/23 in Bridgeton, Missouri. I live in Cape Girardeau, Missouri,
which is about 2 hours from where I'll have surgery. Email me if you'd
like to stay in touch, I'd love to have a surgery buddy with the same
date. :)
Dana
Pre-op 269
Lap RNY 9/23/03

Hi Caroline, I am doing the Miami Walk on Saturday so I will be with
you in spirit...LOL
Let me know how it goes.
Vanessa

Hi Michele Every Doctor is different on that subject.Mine was the
day before surgery only some were three days So Ask the doctor you
see on that one.I ahppy for ya and sounds like you have a great mind
to have the surgery.Keepthinking that way.God Bless and Welcome
aboard and I'll be praying that your day come soon.a friend debkroll
of Iowa down 36 lbs from Aug.18 to Sept 4.Wednesday will know how
much more for my one month
checkup. ---

Welcome Chris where do you live in S. Calif and who is your doctor ? I grew
up in Arcadia but have lived in Bass Lake now for 24 years. I have alot of
family in your area one sister who could really use this surg.
However she has not decided if this is for her yet. I pray she will. Your
surg will be Tuesday this is great
which hospital ? Think positive and everything will be great !
Robin O - Calif
211-133-???
Dec 5 2002

Hey everyone; We have a new email address!
kdjquilts@...
Please send future emails to the new address.
Thanks, Keith and Dawn

I have read many of your posts and no one seems down, and very few in
doubt. That is right were I need to be. I have no doubts, been on
this road for almost 5 years (Why oh why did I ever leave
Anniston!!!!!). Up here, Medicare spells waiting list even to SEE
the doctor. My first appointment will be Monday. I have most of the
required testing done. My co-morbidities score card is notched to
where it looks like swiss cheese. Has anyone else gone through this
hell trying to get this done?
Anyway, my questions is not about afterward, though I know I will
have tons of questions then, but got two for now. Do most surgeons
require a liquid diet before surgery? And if so, how long? Plus, as
a ex-dog breeder, I have had to put dogs "to sleep". I have never
had anesthesia, and the idea of being put "to sleep"...(shutter).
Got any insight?
Foolish but that's me
Boogie
topped the scale at 350 and counting

You would need to change your preferences to "Daily Digest".
Good luck!
Carol Matar
Pre-op 10/30/03
390/???/135

Is there any way I can get the mail in one large email rather than individual

Hi everyone!
I will doing the San Diego Walk From Obesity this Saturday, the 20th
at 8:30 am. The 5K (3 mile) walk is in Lake Murray Park in La Mesa,
CA. Please private email me if you are going to go as maybe we could
meet up and walk together. Perhaps we could have some breakfast
afterwards:)
Here is the link:
http://www.walkfromobesity.com/sandiego/index.php
:) Caroline
Lap RNY 5/2/03
367/283/150
My ObesityHelp.com: www.tinyurl.com/bkld

Reminder Reminder from the Calendar of Gastric_Bypass_Family
Weekly Group Chat!!
Monday September 15, 2003
7:00 pm - 10:00 pm
This event repeats every week.
Notes:

welcome! no need to rush the progression---have you tried blenderized
soups? what prot supp are you on? & are you hydrated? let your doc's
offc know about your symptoms.
lori h.

Boy I think i have run into a brick wall. I am now 8wks post op and
have lost 73lbs but the last 2 going on 3 weeks have not lost as a
matter of fact put on 5 and then lost that... Should I take a look at
my diet and see if that is a problem or is this normal?

HI all just wanted to share that on friday my dr sent in the
paperwork to ohio medicaid. she said that i should know something in
about 6 weeks. she said i had a ton of paperwork and that it would
all be really helpful and that medicaid was approving more of them
then ever before so hopefully that is a good sign. i am on 10
different meds plus last week i got put on insulin. i take 2 orals
and thelantus for the diabetes, a blood pressure med for my kineys
because of the diabetes, wellbutrin, lipator (?SP) 2 meds for reflux
a different oral diabetes at night, an ashma inhaler as needed and a
baby asprin a day.......you would think they would rather pay for
surgery then all this stuff each month. eveyone says i shouldnt have
a problem with getting approved but i am convinced that just because
its me i will lol!!! so i have started gathering info for an appeal
just in case! i want this more than anything and just know that they
will make it hard. my father in law had is done in april and is down
120 pounds! and my best friend had it done last nov and she has lost
122 pounds. both were paid for by medicaid. and i fall inbetween with
medical problems she had less and he had more. so who knows. all i
know is that i am awful at waiting, i have been cleaning and getting
ready and have started buying things that i will need for after
surgery "just in case" we are on a limited income so it seemed right
to do it a little at a time...........so keep your fingers crossed
and keep me in your prayers that i will get a quick approval!!
Tracey

Yeah, I need to call my office.. the doc gave me clearance to start
swimming and go back to the gym, but I didn't ask him about doing
circuit training.. so I need to call and see...
I am thoroughly enjoying the swimming and the water aerobics though!!
I just want to try and tone some of this flab!!!!
Thanks so much Tanya!!!!

HAVE YOU TRIED CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP, OATMEAL, JELLO,ECT. MAYBE THE EGGS AND
MASHED POTATOES WERE JUST TOO HEAVY FEELING, OATMEAL MAY BE TOO SO I WOULD WAIT
ON THAT TOO. TRY LIGHT FOODS AND IF YOU ARE STILL HAVING A HARD TIME YOU MAY
NEED TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR. SOMETIMES YOU NEED TO HAVE A SCOPE PUT DOWN YOUR
THROAT TO ENLARGE THE LITTLE OPENING DOWN THEIR, I FORGOT WHAT ITS CALLED, LOL,
BUT ALOT OF PEOPLE HAVE IT DONE, IT IS PAINLESS AND THEY ARE MUCH BETTER
AFTERWARDS.
ROBIN, NEW YORK
AGE-41
OPEN RNY
OCT. 18TH, 2002
DR. EDWARD HIXSON
SARANAC LAKE, NY
378/246/170???
132 LBS GONE FOREVER : )
What a GREAT feeling : )

Trish, I was told that you can start swimming at 4 weeks and start
visiting the gym at 6 weeks. Best advice is to ask your doc though
because everyone has different ideas of when enough time has passed.
Tanya

Please take my name off of this group temporarily. I will be on the road
and will not have time to read any e-mails. I will rejoin in November.
thanks
loricat

Hi, I am 4 weeks out from my surgery (RNY) and am having problems
introducing food. I am staying with soft food but so far everything
gets me nauseated and sometimes I actually vomit. Shold I just stick
to the boost and broths for awhile longer? Mashed potatoes and eggs
were the first thing I tried and up they came so now I can not get
that feeling and sensation out of my head to try other food. Any
ideas? How often does everyone eat? How much I can get in 2
teaspoons of something soft, broth goes down the best. Help

Hey family!!!!
I just wanted to update on my progress..
I am down to 212 from 256! I am feeling great, managing to get in
more than enough protein for the day!! And I have started on a
fitness routine! I feel awesome and am grateful everyday that I had
this surgery - complications and all!!
I wanted to ask.. how long does your doc recommend you wait on doing
the weight machines and stuff? I would like to start toning, but
don't want to hurt any of my insides in the process..
Any thoughts?
Trish

So it is the carbonation and not the calcium that robs you of Calcium? Another
question about liquids....I have to go on a liquid diet three weeks prior to
surgery....would drinking the protein shakes be a way that I could lose that pre
surgery required weight loss or on a slimfast-type drink?
Carol Matar

I haven't had the surgery yet. I heard this is silly from alot of ppl. But I am
going to Calif in Oct to visit my hubbys family. I would like to lose at least
10 more lbs before I go. That is the weight they seen me at when I first met
them 2 yrs ago. I have lost 25 lbs since May cause I knew I was going to Calif
and I wanted to get down to have this surgery so I wouldn't have so much to
lose. Has anyone else felt this way wanted to lose weight before surgery? Wanted
to lose before surgery?
When it is the time of the month I eat like it's going out of style. I can't
stop. I was thinking about putting a lock on the refrid and giving the key to
the lab puppy next door. Than I would call them up and tell them I am coming to
get the key so they can leave their dog lose and I have to run him down to get
it.
I am one of the ppl on here that is scare after the surgery I will get the head
games again to eat. I know I will need a lot of help on this.
Joyce
11/12/03

Hi Everyone!
I am doing a little research on the soda issue (can we have it or
not?) as relates to calcium and weight loss and here is a little of
what I am finding. Everything I am finding supports what I heard at
my last inperson support group meeting. There is definately a link
between increased calcium and increased weight loss, and given that
soda (or any carbonated drink for that matter) can rob the body of
calcium (see first article below), then perhaps this in and of
itself is a reason to stay away from soda...
:) Caroline
Lap RNY 5/2/03
367/283/150
My ObesityHelp.com Profile: www.tinyurl.com/bkld
More Photos: www.picturetrail.com/carolineam

Hi Dana :)
Best of luck in your upcoming surgery too!!!
:) Caroline
Lap RNY 5/2/03
367/283/150
My WLS Journey: www.tinyurl.com/bkld
More Photos: www.picturetrail.com/carolineam

Chris!! We have the same date!! I'm scheduled for lap RNY at 12:00 noon on 9/23
in Bridgeton, Missouri. I live in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, which is about 2
hours from where I'll have surgery. Email me if you'd like to stay in touch, I'd
love to have a surgery buddy with the same date. :)
Dana
Pre-op 269
Lap RNY 9/23/03
Hello!
I'm a new member that will be having the laproscopic surgery on
September 23, 2003. I live in Southern California area near Los
Angeles. I'm a little jittery about the whole procedure and what to
expect after the surgery is done. I look forward to hearing from
everyone on the list and learning from each of you.
Chris

Hi Jill :)
My own personal experience has been to find a balance between fats,
carbs and proteins. I am finding that as long as my protein is more
than my carbs, then I am still losing (as much as a lb a day some
days). As for fats, I try to keep them less than 20 grams of fat per
day. Also, have you ever tried Lifetime Fat-Free Cheeses? They are
all fat-free (obviously) with only about 1 gram of carbs per ounce
and 8 to 9 grams of protein per ounce. Basically, my personal rule
is that if it has more carbs than protein, it is off limits.
Hope this helps!!!
:) Caroline
Lap RNY 5/2/03
367/283/150
My WLS Journey: www.tinyurl.com/bkld
More Photos: www.picturetrail.com/carolineam

I have my psych eval in the morning at 7:00 a.m. It's my last thing
before approval and I'm so nervous I'm still awake and typing. I
should be in bed. I hope it's not going to be to bad. they said 2
hrs!!!!!! Brigitte

Heather,
Thank you so much for this tip and the free shipping code, wow
thanks!!!! I order quite a bit and in much smaller sizes (some for
now and most for later when I'm smaller) :-).
Thank you again!!!
Beth
07/18/2003 LAP RNY
339/284/150 HT: 5'9 1/2"
Boston, MA

Welcome Chris and good luck.
Debbie R., WI
RNY8/7/03
286/255/150

I need some information from some of you successful post ops. I
already reach for foods high in protein, but my problem is fats vs.
carbs. I'm finding that lots of foods low in fat are high in
carbs...pinots and cheese for instance. And foods low in carbs
sometimes have a higher fat content than I need. My question is, if
given a choice, which should I be avoiding to get this weight loss
moving?
Jill- Louisiana
Open RNY 8/7/03
299/270/145

I am not concerned at all about the fat content. I only worry about the
carbs and that works for me. When something is low fat it usually has lots of
sugar added to it once they take out the fat. I try to stay away from most
processed foods and if there is a choice in a low fat version or a regular
version
(fat free mayo or regular mayo) I will choose the regular every time since it
almost always has less sugar, therefore less carbs.
Tina
Open RNY 10/7/2002
265/141/?

Did I like Dr. Freeman????? That is an understatement!!!! Dr. Freeman
is the sweetest most caring man I have ever met. You don't get the
impression that he is just your doctor and that he is going to rearrange
your insides and then forget about you. He makes each and every patient
feel like THEY are important. And his staff is OUTSTANDING!! Dr.
Freeman has had the surgery and has performed the surgery on about three
or four of his staff. One girl, Candrice, is on the introductory disk
that they send you. You will get to meet her in person at your
seminar. When did you say your seminar is??? I promise you will love
them all and come away from the seminar with any doubts or misgivings

Hi Linda,
My name is Sandi. I am in Alabama too. I attended a seminar on July
17th (first consult) and had my surgery on August 26th so it took me a
little over a month from seminar to surgery. As for when you will find
out if you are a candidate for the surgery, they told us the day we
attended the seminar. They weighed us, checked blood sugars, checked
your BMI and did a gallbladder/liver sonogram then took a medical
history along with the packet of information we had to fill out before
we came. The looked at all this and told us that day if we were
candidates and if they thought our insurance would pay. Within two days
of the seminar they sent a letter to my insurance company. In the mean
time I had to have a psych evaluation but that is all that I had to
have, no sleep apnea test or anything. My insurance company (BC/BS PPO)
decided in two weeks and sent me a letter. I was very pleased with how
quickly things progressed.
If you don't mind me asking, where are you located in Alabama and what
doctor are you going to see? I live in Sylacauga and used Dr. Bryan
Freeman in Anniston.
Sandi Custer
Lap RNY 8-26-03
370/3??/150

Debbie, I found that left over meat often made me sick. My guess is
that once the meat was reheated it became too dry and since I
couldn't drink anything to help wash it through my pouch, it made me
sick.
**Don't dwell on past failures, dream of future successes.**

In a message dated 9/14/2003 2:09:07 PM Eastern Daylight Time,
debrarose@... writes:
Today for lunch I had some left over chicken
strips. They were fine when I ate them Friday night. Today I had
about three bites and got this terrible pain, like it wouldn't go
down. After about 5 minutes, I threw it all up.
Hey Debbie R
I am still on the pureed stage and my surgeon told me that chicken is one of
those foods that tends to get stuck and to be really careful eating chicken
without pureeing it for now. Since he said that I stopped trying to eat chicken
on my own by just chewing it up real well. Try eating chicken breasts that
are well marinated or that have low fat gravy to keep the meat moist. Often
post ops say that dry poultry will cause a person to throw it up. Try eating
the chicken without the breading too. Good Luck
Lori Anne
Lap RNY 8/25/03
274/259/135

In a message dated 9/14/2003 2:13:56 PM Eastern Daylight Time,
leslieileen31@... writes:
Hi....
Has anyone had to go thru the Psyc.Eval.
I have to have this done before I can have surgury.(asuming my Ins.
oks it) My insurance does not cover this and I was wondering if
anyone else had ths problem and the cost of this.
Thanks
Leslie
Hey Leslie
I had to take a psychological evaluation and my insurance plan only charged
$15.00 but I wanted my surgery as soon as possible and the waiting list on the
$15.00 appointment was all the way until September and it was April when I
started my journey to surgery so I paid $80.00 to an affiliated psychologist and
took my evaluation with her and it indeed speeded my process along and I just
had my surgery on 8/25/03 if I had waited I would probably not be getting
surgery until December or next year.
My evaluation was pretty much just a talk fest. I filled out a questionnaire
telling what attempts at weight loss I had tried previously and the
psychologist spoke with me about my current eating habits and what to expect
after
surgery. She was really nice although she was airline stewardess thin LOL:)
Lori Anne
Lap RNY 8/25/03
274/259/135

Hi, am post op, having the lap rny on nov 18th here in wichita ks, im 5 11
and right now at my heighest weight ever and thats 330 pounds, i am 27 years old
and i cant wait to get some of this weight off so i can run and play with my
children...Im so glad to be apart of this wonderful group!!! Amanda in ks

Beth Itsmee <ladiebugg_105@...
of all--I willl be checking my e-mail Very Periodically--I'm just verrrrry sore
& cannot sit here for a long period of time.. But I ha the revision from the
Open VBG To the Open RNY---Gastric bypass-- & I would appreciate ANYpostop
Information--- What all Do ya'll eat? drink? Do You get sick a bunch? I have
been mainly eating jello, broths, drinking water, apple juice. How much do You
exercixe?? Those that are a long time post-op--How do U do with sugar?? My
brother was asking me what I will do at b-day parties & holidays!!!???LOL!--&
I'm Like I have nnnooo idea yet!! I'm wiiling to do what it takes!! Can Ya'll
eat pretty much what ever U want to eat? Just eat less of it?? Like potatoes?
corn? peas? Bananas? I know I will have to start on my protein supplement & a
lot of water also Have to take vitamns too... But will someone PLEASE e-mail me
what ya'll did or do sense surgery??? I mean what ya'll ate
After surgery & eat now & all??? Please??? I would Grrreatly apprecreiate ANY
advice--Feel free to peivate e-mail me also Ladiebugg_105@... Luv Ya
Alll!!! God Bless!! Lori

hi tosh, i'm auditioning reconstructive surgeons; i've heard that IF
you need a revision, they wait 3 months between surgeries. & also,
surgeons will operate only when your BMI is 25 or below. some will
operate only when your weight is stable.
about a 2nd insurance, fortunately,my new insurance is stepping up
to the plate---they're covering my B12 shot appts, follow-up surgeon
appts, all kinds of labs & even a bone density exam. can't complain.
the Dx has been post-operative malabsorption, some people (deb
dancer) suggested hypovitaminosis as a Dx, too.
lori h.

where are you in your journey?
lori h.

Hi,
I had my surgery on 8/7/03 and had transitioned from pureed to solid
food quite well. Today for lunch I had some left over chicken
strips. They were fine when I ate them Friday night. Today I had
about three bites and got this terrible pain, like it wouldn't go
down. After about 5 minutes, I threw it all up. The only thing I
can think of that caused this was that they were a little dry. I
chewed well, (or at least I thought I did). Has anyone else done
fine the first few weeks and then got sick after eating? Any
suggestions would be great, as I prefer not to throw up again.
Thanks,
Debbie R., WI
RNY 8/7/03
286/255/150

Hi....
Has anyone had to go thru the Psyc.Eval.
I have to have this done before I can have surgury.(asuming my Ins.
oks it) My insurance does not cover this and I was wondering if
anyone else had ths problem and the cost of this.
Thanks
Leslie

OK, OK
I am following my surgeon's instructions and trying to drink the protein
mixes that I have. I use Designer Whey French Vanilla and Chocolate and Roex
Whey
Protein mix. The Designer Whey mixes have 17.5 grams of protein per scoop.
The Roex mix has 30 grams per 2 scoops. I mix the protein formulas with 2
percent milk which also boosts the protein. My question is exactly how many
grams of protein do RNY patients intake per meal? What is the max amount of
protein that our bodies can digest? I know I am supposed to intake 60-70 grams
of
protein per day on top of all the vitamins I take I use cinnamon to flavor the
protein drinks and I just mix them and shake them with the milk I don't like
them thick and milkshakey.
Lori Anne
Lap RNY 8/25/03
274/259/135

In a message dated 9/14/2003 11:58:30 AM Central Standard Time,
ellenkoteff@... writes:
It has been seven months since my surgery. I weighed about 260 at the time
and have lost abot 50 pounds. During the last month I have lost almost
nothing. does this seem right? I am discouraged and don't understand why i
have not lost more. Please help.
Seven months and you have lost fifty pounds? What kind of foods are you
eating? Are you exercising and or walking? Push the protein and the fluids and
watch the carbs and all. Read labels and weigh your food to keep you with your
limits if you are off track a bit. Keep in touch.
Wolfie
Lap Rny...August 27,2003
Dr. Lee A. Schmitt
Birmingham, Alabama
Keep 'Em Laughing!

It has been seven months since my surgery. I weighed about 260 at the time
and have lost abot 50 pounds. During the last month I have lost almost
nothing. does this seem right? I am discouraged and don't understand why i
have not lost more. Please help.

In a message dated 9/14/2003 9:58:11 AM Central Standard Time,
hisgirlforever27@... writes:
I cant wait to be on the other side
with u....Amanda in ks
Well girl get in here and post! lol. There will come times I am sure you will
have so many questions to ask. I am still asking them I don't think you ever
reach a stopping point. This group is great and its good to have you here with
us.
Wolf
Keep 'Em Laughing

Ok you guys, clarify this for me. I was told that dumping is exactly
what Wolfie described. The sick feeling in the pit of your stomach that
feels like a rock just sitting there, nausea, followed closely by
vomiting -all of this happening with in a very short amount of time
after overeating, eating something you shouldn't, or having too much
sugar in whatever you're eating. Does everyone have different dumping
experiences? I've had four major ones-twice when I ate a little bit of
Chinese food (that I cooked myself with very little oil but it was still
apparently too much), once when my husband bought a brand of generic
chicken broth that had a lot of grease in it, and once when I had eaten
my scrambled eggs too fast. The Chinese food and eating too fast made me
feel like I was going to have a heart attack (tight chest-felt like
trapped air followed by excessive burping) and then I vomited
everything. As soon as I vomited, I felt nauseous and weird for the rest
of the day. The soup just left me with that very sick feeling and like
there was a rock in the pit of my stomach for about 2 hours then just
went away as quickly as it came on.
During the first week after surgery, while drinking full strength apple
juice and Gatorade, I felt nauseous also and when I asked my doctor
about it, he told me that I had dumping because of the sugar content and
that my body wouldn't allow to have real sugar anymore-that I was one of
those people who couldn't handle it. So I guess my question is does
everyone have different dumping experiences? Isn't this like with
doctor's diet advice and stages that everyone will have different
reactions? I'm just guess I'm still confused about it even though I'm 12
weeks out. I've learned now that even with scrambled eggs, I have to
chew the you-know-what out of it before swallowing or else I'll have an
episode and to stay away from Chinese food for a while.
Tanya

Hi All,
I have a question for those of you who have reached your goal weight. I just
had a hernia repair on 18 August, and since I don't have the bulge in the
front of my tummy, I can really see how saggy the skin is from my weight loss.
Oy
.. it's horrible.
I also have a really viscous pair of "bat wings" under my arms. My surgeon
said it would be iffy whether or not I would have severe saggy skin because of
my age, blah blah blah .. but the skin is saggin' baaaad! Oy, it's driving me
nuts!
I'm only 13 months postop, but I'm very close to my goal weight. I know I
have about 10-15 pounds of skin that needs to be removed which will put me at my
goal weight.
Has anyone had their skin removed yet? Is being only slightly over a year
postop too soon to think about having the skin removed? And do I have to wait
until I stay at my goal weight for any amount of time before I can have the skin
removed? Also .. I know some surgeons like to wait a year between surgeries.
Is this a common thing? Generally speaking, since I just had hernia surgery,
does that mean I'll have to wait until next August before I can have my skin
removed?
One last question ... lol .. (sorry) At the time of my surgery, my insurance
carrier was United Healthcare PPO .. the city my husband is employed by
changed insurance companies and now we have BC/BS HMO. There was no lapse in
coverage, so it's my understanding that BC/BS will have to provide any
additional
care I may need because of the weight loss surgery. Is this accurate or have I
been misinformed?
I'm definitely experiencing some effects from the saggy skin like pulling on
my abdomen and back pain from the weight of the skin hanging down. So, would
I have to go through BC/BS to see if they'll pay to have the skin removed, or
will it have to come out of my own pocket?
Ok.. tons of questions I know. Sorry about that. LOL Thanks for reading.
Any advice would be very much appreciated!
Tosh
Atlanta, GA
08.28.03
Open RNY
313/16/135

I am so sorry to hear about your dog...I hope things get better for you too,
and i have a boy friend stationed down in Cuba in the army and im worried
about the hurricane too, i have my sugery on nov 18th here in ks...im scared and
neverous and im the single mom of three little ones, so i wonder how it will
effect me. Im so glad to have found this support group, i dont post much, but
read everything u all say. And im so proud of all u, u all work hard to lose
the weight and im sure u all look great! I cant wait to be on the other side
with u....Amanda in ks

Hi Linda,
First and foremost -- welcome to the g.b. family! The people here are some of
the most informative and supportive folks I've ever seen. Congratulations on
making the decision to totally improve and change your life!
I can totally relate to your health fears -- I had the same, which is what
motivated me to have weight loss surgery. At the time, I was 313 lbs and just
walking up the stairs was a physical feat. I was exhausted by the time I reached
the last step and my heart would feel like it was pounding out of my chest!
It's totally normal to be scared. If someone wasn't scared, I would think
they haven't thought the surgery totally through. I was scared too. I'm certain
a
lot of us were when we came close to our surgery dates. It's a life-altering
experience, and yes there is a realm of danger to having the surgery. To me,
the dangers of living morbidly obese the rest of my life outweighed the dangers
of the surgery. I'm 13 months postop and the only *serious* side-effect of
the surgery I experienced was a rather large umbilical hernia I just had
repaired on 18 August. Throughout all the pain, cravings, nausea, etc., I would
do it
all over again in a heartbeat!
The waiting time for the surgery really differs from insurance to insurance,
surgeon to surgeon, and patient to patient. I was fortunate in that I didn't
have to put up with a lot of crap and jump through a lot of hoops with my
insurance company (then it was United Healthcare PPO) From the time I had my
initial consult to the time I was being admitted into the hospital to have the
surgery, it all took about 3½ months. My surgeon is/was Dr. Edward Waits in
Atlanta, Ga. He and his staff have been doing bariatric surgery for 15 years, so
they are really skilled when it comes to sending insurance packets and getting
patients approved -- not to mention he's an excellent surgeon!
I experienced some mild hairloss when I was about 6 months postop. I helped
prevent it some by increasing my vitamin and protein intake, and a special
shampoo that my surgeon recommended to make my hair stronger. I didn't go bald,
but I did experience some real thinning on the crown of my head. Thankfully,
after enduring about 4 months of that, the hair loss stopped.
Don't forget to check out the Gastric Bypass Family website, it's chock-full
of awesome information from getting approved, and letters you should write, to
about the surgery, postop, and beyond. <A
HREF="http://www.gastricbypassfamily.com/"
A
It's really a very helpful informative site. It answered a lot of my questions
before I had the surgery.
Good luck to you!
Natasha
Atlanta, Ga
08.28.03
Open RNY
313/160/135
In a message dated 9/14/03 10:36:53 AM Eastern Daylight Time,
Barefoot9119@... writes:

Hello all,
I am thinking about the Gastric-Bypass. I am 45 years old and had a
stroke last year in November. The doctor told me I needed to shed weight of
course I haven't had much luck. I have set up my consultation with a doctor in
my area for September 8. I am excited and scared don't know which is worse.
I guess what I need to know how long after your first doctor visit did you
know about the surgery date or if you were a candidate for the surgery. I have
read your emails and have questions about the hair loss, how much do you loose.
I just need some help I don't want to have another stroke. I would appreciate
any information you all could provide me.
Linda
Alabama

mmm, chelle, one of the gifts that i got from co-workers when in the
hospital was a gift certificate to a "skinny clothes" store. it was
a symbolic & touching gesture. @ 5 months out, i walked into that
New York & Co., & left on cloud 9!!! i still marvel @ being able to
shop in the junior's section, it's unreal. & on rare occasions, i
also imagine that i don't belong in there. but i do, & it's beyond
sweet & liberating.
lori h.

Wolfie,
I dont call this dumping, but just over ate. It is a painful thing
to experience. I have dumped once and that was when it runs thru
your body real fast... if you know what i am talking about, You have
to run NOW to the bathroom. Sorry you experiences this. It is
painful and scary. I have thrown up several times. Once from
eating too much, once ate the wrong thing, once ate to fast. I hate
food now, and am a bit scared of it also, but i am learning how to
use this new tool.
Lori-MI
Open RnY
8-1-03

Well gang I messed up tonight. But it was sure a good thing I did. I began to
think I wasn't going to be one of the posties that never got sick and could
have almost anything at this point. WRONG! I had some baked chicken and a
little spoon of pasta and a smaller spoon of spinach. I weighed the
chicken...and
did real good till I had one more bite later. I got nauseous and began this
throwing up stuff. Didnt get cold sweats or anything like that but I did have to
lose it and quick. It felt like a dadgum rock just lying there in my gut. Was
this what they call dumping or what? Thanks everyone. Skinny Wishes to ya!
Wolf
Keep 'Em Laughing

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Be sure to read the WHOLE email.. there is a free shipping code. I ordered 2
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for $59.99 or $69.99
It is labeled $59.99 with $30 off.... put it in your cart and then click on
your shopping cart. It will be the prices I quoted above in the shopping
cart!
GOES IN CART For $9.99 or $19.99 depending on size.
Item #29-59789-1038
your next purchase Even better, when you register, be sure to sign up to
receive our e-mails so you'll continue to receive exclusive Gift Cheques and
coupons, which can be used online or in our stores!

Joyce,
I'm sorry your father has such a negative attitude toward the surgery. I'm sure
if my father were alive he may have reacted the same way. He was very set in his
ways and very anti-doctor, which is part of the reason we had no idea he had
heart problems. A massive heart attack took him nearly 5 years ago. You would
think that with your parents health history they would understand your reasons
for wanting to do this. They are probably just afraid of losing you, and that is
a valid concern. Which means they do care. Depends on how you look at it I guess
and just remember that when all else fails, you always have this family and we
care too. Keep your chin up, Constance
Joy Muns <joy_ms@...
I am 50 years old and I call my parents every week end. I called my parents
today and guess what. My dad told me I was so dumb to have this surgery. I told
them what am I suppose to do. I can't walk now cause of my knees hurting. I fall
asleep behind a wheel of a car. I can't even get in and out of a car hardly. I
don't want to leave my house cause of what people say.
I am scare of being like them. With heart trouble, diabetes, colon cancer, and
blood clots. I don't want to have open heart surgery. Dad said well your going
to have your stomach cut open it's like open heart surgery. I couldn't get it
thru his thick head this is what I want and this is what I shall have. It's my
health and he will see how I feel later. He said well I am fat and I am going to
stay this way either you like it or not. He got off the phone and gave mom the
phone. She was up set over it. My dad is pig headed. He is a German and he is so
stubborn. My mom didn't want to talk about it. So I just let it be and I won't
bring it up again. My husband and I are going to see them the last of this
month. My parents are in the hospital every December or January with Heart
attacks. My oldest brother died of a heart attack at the age of 52. My next
oldest brother die of blood clots going to his heart at the age of 43. They both
weights over 350 lbs.
I just told them I couldn't handle this right now with them. I was going ahead
with this surgery. I want to be around to help them out. I can't if I am dead.
Joyce
11/12/03
open rny

Robin,
So sorry!! Of course you were depressed! I certainly don't blame you for going
back to "comfot foods". I'm sure you'll get your self back on track. Good
luck.
Debbie R., WI
RNY8/7/03
286/255/150

Okay, for those who have had the surgery and are now down to your
ideal weight or where you want to be how was it shopping at a store
like Lerners or Gap? I never step a foot in these type of stores,
one cause I know nothing will fit and two, I feel intimidated and
feel like people are staring at me wondering what is SHE doing in
THIS store. So I don't go there. How did you handle or deal with
shopping at a store like this for the first time? I think I will
still have a problem shopping in one but I wnated to see how you
dealt with it. That will be my number one goal after losing enough
weight. To shop at Lerners or one like that.
Thanks!
Chelle

That must have been really tough to have to hear all of that. They
may not be open to education right now, but in time they will see
your results and they will have to be impressed. It sounds like with
your family history, you definitely have no choice but to do this
now. Maybe if they see some of the before and after pix on this
site, it may help. I guess the surgery sounds pretty drastic to
people who have not been informed of the benefits. Good luck during
your visit.
Connie
preop 9/17
open rny

Mickey,
Congratulations on the 64 pounds. That is outstanding. You are so
right about not rushing it. I keep reminding myself that I took
years to put this weight on. I do go through stages where I get
down about the numbers. It does not help that I have been on a
plateau for the last two weeks. The one thing that I will be doing
is going back to my protein shakes/protein bars. I have not done
those in about 2 months.
Thanks for responding. Continued success with your weight loss.
Rose

Rose, I am only 4 months post op and I have already lost 64 pounds, my
friend is 6 months post op and is @ the 80 pound mark also. We have still been
doing our protein shakes and eating fish chicken that sort of thing and
drinking lots of water.
I am no dr or expert by no means but I would say your doing wonderfully.
Keep up the good work, don't rush it we r on our way!!!!
Lori (Fremont In)
5-5-03
234/168/?

I am 50 years old and I call my parents every week end. I called my parents
today and guess what. My dad told me I was so dumb to have this surgery. I told
them what am I suppose to do. I can't walk now cause of my knees hurting. I fall
asleep behind a wheel of a car. I can't even get in and out of a car hardly. I
don't want to leave my house cause of what people say.
I am scare of being like them. With heart trouble, diabetes, colon cancer, and
blood clots. I don't want to have open heart surgery. Dad said well your going
to have your stomach cut open it's like open heart surgery. I couldn't get it
thru his thick head this is what I want and this is what I shall have. It's my
health and he will see how I feel later. He said well I am fat and I am going to
stay this way either you like it or not. He got off the phone and gave mom the
phone. She was up set over it. My dad is pig headed. He is a German and he is so
stubborn. My mom didn't want to talk about it. So I just let it be and I won't
bring it up again. My husband and I are going to see them the last of this
month. My parents are in the hospital every December or January with Heart
attacks. My oldest brother died of a heart attack at the age of 52. My next
oldest brother die of blood clots going to his heart at the age of 43. They both
weights over 350 lbs.
I just told them I couldn't handle this right now with them. I was going ahead
with this surgery. I want to be around to help them out. I can't if I am dead.
Joyce
11/12/03
open rny

Hi, this is Rose. It has been a long time since I have posted. I
hope everyone is doing well. I have a question for people who are
out more than 6 months and have been successful in their weight
loss. What are you eating???? I am out 7 months and have lost 80
pounds. Most people who had surgery around the same time I did have
lost much more weight than that.
Please understand that I am thrilled to be down 80 pounds and would
not give this up for anything in the world. Nevertheless, I thought
that maybe some of you who have done well might have some
information on what worked for you.
Lori - how are you girl?
Rose

Ami,
I hope you are doing better! Thank you for thinking about us. It says alot about
you; even in your early recovery you are willing to share your experience to
broaden our knowledge...WOW! Please let us know how you are doing and from the
bottom of a pre-ops heart, Thank you. We do have to be aware. I still want this
more than anything, you have opened my eyes a little wider. Get Well Soon!,
Constance
AmiRn76@... wrote:
Hi everyone
I just got home today from the hospital after having emergency surgery on
Tuesday night.
I had my RNY on May 13 (4 months ago) and since then I have had trouble with
the hole from my pouch into my intestine shrinking. It caused pain, nausea
and vomitting. Because of the shrinking, I have had to have several EGDs. 2 of
the were done because I was blocked at the time and the other two were
scheduled just to have a look into my pouch and see if that hole had shrunk.
Both
times, it had. Anyway, I went to the hospital on Tuesday September the 9th to
have an EGD just to check on my pouch. The hole had shrunk to about 1/2 the
size it is suppose to be, so the doctor (who is a GI doctor that my surgeon had
referred me to) stretched it out and in the process ruptured the line
connected my pouch to my intestine. It wasnt his fault at all, it was just a
risk
that we all knew we were taking - but we didnt have a choice...it had to be
stretched.
After I woke up from the EDG, I felt fine. But once they had me take a sip
of fluid, I started having horrendous pain in both my shoulders, in my chest
and both my arms were extremely weak - especially my left which was almost
paralyzed. They did the "leak test" with the gastrografin and I had a leak.
The
pain in my shoulders etc was caused by the free air, fluid and blood that had
escaped into my abdominal and chest cavity due to the rupture. Long story
short, I had to go into surgery and have the rupture fixed that night. I had a
rough inital recovery and ended up staying until this afternoon (Saturday the
13th). It is almost like starting my recovery all over again, even though I am
actually 4 months post op from the RNY. I am back on weeks 1-2 of the liquid
diet. Plus add in all the pain from 5 brand new incisions, the internal
sutures and the recovery from anesthetic.
I wanted to write this, especially for the people considering the RNY and
even those who have already decided to have it, but are still pre op. What
happened to me is rare, but it DOES happen. I had read about complications like
these before I had surgery and I always told myself that it wouldnt happen to me
because they were older, or less healthy or more overweight. I am 27 years
old. Aside from being obese I am extremely healthy. I dont have high blood
pressure, diabetes or any other comorbidity. I was only about 120 lbs
overweight, which is a small number in comparsion to most people who have this
surgery.
I did pretty much everything that my surgeon told me to do, and he assured
me multiple times that this didnt happen to me because of anything I had or
hadnt done.
I dont regret thr RNY. After all I have lost about 53 lbs and thats a great
accomplishment to me and one I probably wouldnt have been able to acheive (and
certainly not maintain!) without surgery. I just want you all to realize the
risks. I remember being pre op and I researched like a fiend. I thought I
knew everything about it. In fact, I did know a lot about the surgery, but
knowing what could happen and being prepared for it are two very different
things. I thought I was totally prepared and I wasnt. If I can have
complications,
it can happen to anyone. Of course the risks are greater to someone who is
older, has comorbidities or is several hundred pounds overweight - but it can
still happen to someone who is young and healthy.
Even though what happened to me wasnt anyone's fault (no one was negligent or
incompetent or did anything wrong) it could have very well killed me. If my
surgeon wasnt such a smart guy and diagnosed the problem quickly and got me
back into the OR, I could have ended up with sepsis and died. I know we all
worry about dying during surgery or immediately after. I really thought though
that at 4 months post op I was in the clear. This could very well be
something that haunts me for the rest of my life (which I hope is a very long
time!)
or maybe the problems have been fixed and I will be fine. Either way, be sure
you are willing to accept not only the initial risks but the long term effects
as well.
~ami~
LAP RNY 5-13-03
Revision due the complications 9-9-03
261/208/130-140

(((((Toi)))))
Thank you sweetie! Today is a smidge better. I'm glad I don't have to go
anywhere. My eyes are so swollen from crying. Don't think I have cried that hard
in years. It's one thing for me to hurt and another to see my children hurt.
We have had some light flurries today and have temp hasn't gotten out of the
30's. It's a whoppin 36 right now. That's good new about the Colorado river,
maybe we will have a fruitful spring. Keep in touch and stay warm! Luv,
Constance
toibox_success <toibox_success@...
My Home Girl! I've got my big ol' arms wrapped around you and your
kiddos. Losing our lovey pets is hard and I'm glad you have others
to keep on loving.
Hey, did you get your snow? We had loads and loads of rain and huge
hail here on the Western Slope. It was unbelievable and the Colorado
River is higher than I've seen it in the past 4 years. Temps dipped
down to 55 which is super rare for this time of year here. You be
careful, hon and we luv ya.
**Don't dwell on past failures, dream of future successes.**

Hi Connie .I'm happy and will be praying and keeping you in my
thoughts from now until your back home for a quick and healthy
recovery.God Bless you.And for liquids I loved my Crystal lite and
jello helps me.I hated the liquids too but it will not belong and be
back to food again.So hang in there.Oh Popslices were great too.a
friend debkroll of Iowa surgery date Aug.18,2003,Down 36 lbs from
then to Sept.4,2003.God Bless and he help you everystep of your New
Life and
journey.

Hi Ami Thank God your better.Sorry to hear what happen but now your
back up and Going.God Bless and get your rest and I'll keep you in
my prayers and thoughts that you heal and recover quickly.God Bless
ya a friend debkroll of Iowa.Hang in there you'll be running soon.

Hi everyone
I just got home today from the hospital after having emergency surgery on
Tuesday night.
I had my RNY on May 13 (4 months ago) and since then I have had trouble with
the hole from my pouch into my intestine shrinking. It caused pain, nausea
and vomitting. Because of the shrinking, I have had to have several EGDs. 2 of
the were done because I was blocked at the time and the other two were
scheduled just to have a look into my pouch and see if that hole had shrunk.
Both
times, it had. Anyway, I went to the hospital on Tuesday September the 9th to
have an EGD just to check on my pouch. The hole had shrunk to about 1/2 the
size it is suppose to be, so the doctor (who is a GI doctor that my surgeon had
referred me to) stretched it out and in the process ruptured the line
connected my pouch to my intestine. It wasnt his fault at all, it was just a
risk
that we all knew we were taking - but we didnt have a choice...it had to be
stretched.
After I woke up from the EDG, I felt fine. But once they had me take a sip
of fluid, I started having horrendous pain in both my shoulders, in my chest
and both my arms were extremely weak - especially my left which was almost
paralyzed. They did the "leak test" with the gastrografin and I had a leak.
The
pain in my shoulders etc was caused by the free air, fluid and blood that had
escaped into my abdominal and chest cavity due to the rupture. Long story
short, I had to go into surgery and have the rupture fixed that night. I had a
rough inital recovery and ended up staying until this afternoon (Saturday the
13th). It is almost like starting my recovery all over again, even though I am
actually 4 months post op from the RNY. I am back on weeks 1-2 of the liquid
diet. Plus add in all the pain from 5 brand new incisions, the internal
sutures and the recovery from anesthetic.
I wanted to write this, especially for the people considering the RNY and
even those who have already decided to have it, but are still pre op. What
happened to me is rare, but it DOES happen. I had read about complications like
these before I had surgery and I always told myself that it wouldnt happen to me
because they were older, or less healthy or more overweight. I am 27 years
old. Aside from being obese I am extremely healthy. I dont have high blood
pressure, diabetes or any other comorbidity. I was only about 120 lbs
overweight, which is a small number in comparsion to most people who have this
surgery.
I did pretty much everything that my surgeon told me to do, and he assured
me multiple times that this didnt happen to me because of anything I had or
hadnt done.
I dont regret thr RNY. After all I have lost about 53 lbs and thats a great
accomplishment to me and one I probably wouldnt have been able to acheive (and
certainly not maintain!) without surgery. I just want you all to realize the
risks. I remember being pre op and I researched like a fiend. I thought I
knew everything about it. In fact, I did know a lot about the surgery, but
knowing what could happen and being prepared for it are two very different
things. I thought I was totally prepared and I wasnt. If I can have
complications,
it can happen to anyone. Of course the risks are greater to someone who is
older, has comorbidities or is several hundred pounds overweight - but it can
still happen to someone who is young and healthy.
Even though what happened to me wasnt anyone's fault (no one was negligent or
incompetent or did anything wrong) it could have very well killed me. If my
surgeon wasnt such a smart guy and diagnosed the problem quickly and got me
back into the OR, I could have ended up with sepsis and died. I know we all
worry about dying during surgery or immediately after. I really thought though
that at 4 months post op I was in the clear. This could very well be
something that haunts me for the rest of my life (which I hope is a very long
time!)
or maybe the problems have been fixed and I will be fine. Either way, be sure
you are willing to accept not only the initial risks but the long term effects
as well.
~ami~
LAP RNY 5-13-03
Revision due the complications 9-9-03
261/208/130-140

I guess it's sinking in that the time is imminent. Starting tomorrow
I will be on clear liquids for three days, then the surgery will be
Wednesday morning. I know some of you have experienced this, it
seems the clear liquids will almost be harder to do than the post-
surgery diet! Does anyone have any hints to make it bearable??
Thanks in advance,
Connie
preop--Sept. 17th
open rny

Hi Dawn B. So lucky going to be in Beautiful Topeka,Ks.I miss that
town.Everyone were so great and nice there.I lived there years ago
but was the greatest City to live in.People were always so friendly
and nice.I'll keep you in my prayers and thoughts.God Bless and Take
care and keep us inform on your progress.a friend debkroll of Iowa
down 36 lbs from Aug.14 before surgery to Sept.4,2003 17 days out
after
surgery.

So sorry to hear of your lost of the baby and yes I understand how
depress your been.Your little stomach is there.I was told by my
nutrition after so many months them most your eat is a little childs
meal.So don't worry just start measuring if your scared that will
help.I h