Weight loss

I have never done it Janice. I was just offering a suggestion to Lisa since
the hospital wants cash prior to the trip and Dr. M wants cash there. If
she presents a credit card to the hospital there will be a 5% fee. I
presumed she would do the arithmetic to see which way would be the most
affordable way. Any time you use a card with interest bearing on your end
and charges at the other end there will be costs involved. It might be
worth the fee to her. It might not. W

Did you have times when it stopped for days.... and got slightly puffy?
Konstantin
Mine was about 3-4 weeks from surgery date.
Kathy B in KC

Hi,
What kind of vitamins do you take after surgery? Any other
suppliments?
I was looking at protein bars and powders and there are tons of
brands and kinds to choose from. Anyone have a suggestion as to
which are the best tasting ones? If you take protein, what form is
the easiest to take after surgery? This is all very confusing and a
bit overwhelming.
Suggestions are welcome!
Robin
sugery date oct 26th

Hi Diane,
Yes, it works to call Brazil, but not for that cost. I did a search on 10-10
services a while back and calls to Brazil were higher than 3 cents on all of
them, so I just went on www.1010987.com to check and it says calls to Brazil
are 19 cents a minute and $1.09 to connect. I did find one that was 10 cents a
minute, and it didn't indicate any difference in the usual connection fee of
39 cents. I don't remember off hand which one it was and can't find the page
I printed out right now, but you can do a search on 10-10 numbers, or I can
let you know once I find the paper with the info.
Janice
10-20-04

Jamie....you see my hair is short now. It was very long until 5 months post
op and then so much was coming off every time I brushed it I swear there
were no two hairs the same length. It just kept breaking and breaking and I
couldn't stand it any more. Since I knew I look better in short hair and
this was the first time EVER in my life I had grown it cutting it was a
major decision. I know I will never grow it again. But I had to. The
minute I cut it short enough so I could simply run a comb through it instead
of a brush the hair stopped falling and breaking. Pre haircut each brushing
would fill the brush 5-6 times plus it would be on my lap, my shoulders, the
chair, the floor, etc. I won't even talk about when I washed it. I'm glad
yours is growing back and maybe you will escape the dreaded haircut. W

okay, i just called the parthenon, using 10-10-987
and it worked beautifully! just like i was calling across
the street.
the cost is 46 cents connect fee, and three cents a
minute.
i dialed 10-10-987
and then 011 (the country code)
and then 41 (the curitiba code)
and then the parthenon-- 432-0044
works beautifully.
so, if you want your friends and family to be able to call
you while you're in brazil, this is the cheapest way to go.
once you spend the connect fee of 46 cents, you can
talk forever at 3 cents a minute.
he-he-eh-- i *knew* this would work! i've yet to call any
country where it doesn't work.
put this somewhere for safe-keeping.
diane

Vicki...I hate to say this but I truly don't think you are going anywhere
tomorrow unless you find a magic rerouting. Keep checking with the airport
and if you have to use Ana to translate or make other arrangements do
so...but I am sure the Miami airport will be completely closed tomorrow and
maybe even Sunday. You'll need to either reroute or wait it out. Sorry
this had to happen to you. I have a lot of family and friends in Florida
and they report everything from massive traffic jams because of the biggest
evacuation in history to all airports going to be closed and the whole state
is in gridlock. You might have to relax and go with the flow. Good luck
and sorry to report bad news. W

I won't be able to see 48 Hours tonight and I'm so disappointed. Instead
our CBS station is showing the Redskins final pre season football game.
After Letterman they will show the Joan of Arcadia repeat, Entertainment
Tonight, Inside Edition and other preempted stuff but of course it wouldn't
occur to them to show the one show I want. Instead they show a repeat. I
hope people will tell me in detail how they describe WLS. I know the paper
here said it describes the "risks". Do they show anything positive? W

Vicki, I would recommend you contact the airline directly
IMMEDIATELY. I just flew back from Chicago to Denver yesterday, and
even if Miami stays open, many of the AIRLINES are cancelling
flights. If you do not have internet access, I would be happy to
contact all the airlines for you to get a status update, and see if
they want to reroute you.
Mike Adams

Hi Lisa,
You should wire the money to the hospital a few day before you leave for
Brazil. If you really must use a credit card you should contact Dr. M and
discuss it with him. I believe it is possible but that you have to pay an
extra fee.
BTW, if you go leather shopping most all of the shops will take
Visa/MasterCard.
Clear Skies,
Dave in Ohio
_____
From: Lisa Cooper [mailto:lcooperett@...]
Sent: Friday, September 03, 2004 12:18 PM

VIcki....could ya just stay an extra couple days in Curitiba? Give the weather a
chance to play out and then there shouldnt be a problem. The airline might waive
the change fee cause of the weather too.
48 and fat.....but gonna be
50 and FABULOUS!!! healthy too
Darlene in Tx

Hi Everyone!
I was so surprised and happy to see Brittany's post. Will try to
visit her and Diane this afternoon!
I am scheduled to fly out tomorrow (Saturday) and arrive in MIAMI
(yes, Miami) Sunday morning. Of course I am scared to death with
Hurricane Frances looming offshore right now. I am watching the FFA
website to see if Miami closes. I used Brol.com as my travel agent
and they are located in Miami, too. I emailed them to see if they
would advise me to re-route my trip home, but I doubt that I'll get
a response. So I will just hang in there until and unless I see
that Miami closes....then I will PANIC. I have flown before, but am
far from an experienced traveler! Any advice, guys? Should I hang
in there or take steps to re-route?
Another question - will I have to recheck my bags when I arrive in
USA? I cannot lift my luggage and planned to get wheelchair
assistance and assistance with my bags. However, Miami certainly
must be short-handed so I'm concerned about getting help. I simply
cannot risk a hernia by lifting so someone will have to help me.
Any thoughts, guys?
Vicki in Brazil

Brittany,
It may be hard to imagine NOW, but you really will feel better every day. Just
go for short outings and sit for a rest whenever you feel like it.
I asked Dr. Marchesini to please just shoot me my first day after surgery.
Well, he didn't. And the following Sunday I was at the Flea Market (but sitting
as often as I wanted)!
Hang in there!
Nina
brittany graham <brittany_h_graham@...
Hi Group
This is just a follow up to let everyone know that Diane and myself are doing
well. I had my surgery on Wednesday and Diane had hers on Thursday. I feel
discomfort/moderate pain in my midsection, making it hard to sit or lay
comfortably. I think Diane only feels pain when getting up and down but we
haven't talked much so I'm not totally sure. She seems to be doing better than
me. I've never had surgery before so I'm probably just being a big baby. I
will have my leak test tomorrow and should be going to the hotel if all is well.
I hope to be able to go around the city and do things like others have. At this
point, it is hard to imagine but we shall see. Will be updating in a bit.
Brittany

The Dr. Marchesini FAQ can be found at
http://home.comcast.net/~gleppla1/MarFAQ.htm

Hi Group
This is just a follow up to let everyone know that Diane and myself are doing
well. I had my surgery on Wednesday and Diane had hers on Thursday. I feel
discomfort/moderate pain in my midsection, making it hard to sit or lay
comfortably. I think Diane only feels pain when getting up and down but we
haven't talked much so I'm not totally sure. She seems to be doing better than
me. I've never had surgery before so I'm probably just being a big baby. I
will have my leak test tomorrow and should be going to the hotel if all is well.
I hope to be able to go around the city and do things like others have. At this
point, it is hard to imagine but we shall see. Will be updating in a bit.
Brittany

Hi Konstantine,
I am no authority, but it sounds like it may be closing up. That is exactly how
mine reacted. My seroma was in the center of my incision, where the middle
stitch was removed. After it stopped leaking, it was still a little purple and
puffy. I was just sure it was going to start leaking any time. I left the
bandages over it for a few more days until I felt safe.
That was the end, thank God! Hope this is the end for you too!
Kathy B in KC

Can that be done with a credit card? I am getting my ducks in a row
and adding up cash that we have and available credit on a credit
card. I will need to use both...but need to know if I can pay the
hospital with credit so I'll have my cash for Dr. M and Durval and
also for some of that Brazilian leather! Thanks!
Lisa
Oct. 2!!

No...my husband hasn't been nice to me yet. But...I just got my
airline tickets delivered and they are IN MY HANDS!!!! WOW!! I
can't believe my dream is finally coming true!!!
Lisa
Oct 2!!

Sorry to bring up this wonderful subject matter again ,, but I need insite!
Apparently my seroma (located at the bottom of my incision seems to
have stopped for three days now... but at the location where the seroma was
leaking the area is very slightly redder and a bit puffy (very little but
still) ... I am wondering ..... is this mean the end of the Seroma or is it
about to suddenly gush again....
Any insite wold be really so so so Welcome.....
Konstantin

Lisa,
Well, maybe you need to tell him that antique/classic cars are a really big
thing in Curitiba! There is an antique car display at the flea market each
Sunday, and I saw two antique car sales places, just by accident, so who knows
how many there are! I took several photos of the antique cars at the flea
market, but I don't have them on this computer (in fact, I just sent my laptop
in for repairs, so I hope they don't lose my files!!) If I come across them,
I'll send 'em too you.
I know this doesn't address the source of your hurt--that he isn't supporting
you in something so important, but sometimes distraction is a good thing. He'll
be happy once the surgery is over and you are safe and healthy.
Nina
Lisa Cooper <lcooperett@...
Becca...I don't discuss Brazil with him. I talk about it when he
starts mouthing or making snotty comments or decides to try to talk
me out of it again (which causes another argument). I got my airline
tickets yesterday and haven't even told him yet. It just makes me SO
MAD because if there was something that HE wanted so much or even a
LITTLE....I would be the FIRST one to be his main support person!
That's what we are SUPPOSED to be for each other! He has collector
cars! 2-'57 chevy convertibles, 1-'67 corvette, 2-'72 chevrolet
cheyenne super sport pick ups and a 6 car detached garage that he had
built last year, to house his little precious babies! He spends SO
much money on them, he cruises around in them on the weekends, he
takes them to shows and has NEVER heard a griping word out of me.
It's his hobby, his thing that he REALLY enjoys doing. I'm
supportive...even when money's tight and he chooses to spend money on
something for a car. I take care of kids all day and the house and
because of the twins, I hardly ever leave the house. My hobby is my
family...that's it! I love my job (homemaker) so don't get me
wrong....I don't even know where I'm going with this other than the
fact that I can't IMAGINE not supporting my husband no matter WHAT he
was wanting to do. Well...I can think of a couple things that would
bug me...but we won't go into that here...that's another forum! LOL
Anyway..you get the idea. I can see this coming between us when
nothing else ever has, because I deserve his respect for this
decision that I've made just like I would respect any decision he
makes. I could be resentful for a long time if he lets me leave with
his attitude like it is now. He's never been this way before and
it's not even fun having him around these days. It's making me
really sad and making my shoulders tense!! That's all I'm gonna
gripe....for now.
Lisa
Oct. 4

David,
It sounds to me like you have every right to whine. I don't know what I can say
to make it better, but I hope it does get better really soon.
Kathy B in KC

I did put Ana's phone number in the American Box. I hope it is still there.
She was wonderful. We spent two days together and she was a joy to be with.
She took me around the city sights on the first day. The second day we went
through the rain forest and then down to the ocean. We had lunch at a
beachside restaurant (couldn't eat much) and then walked the beach.
It really made me feel great to get out of the hotel and see such wonderful
sights. Even though I had never met Ana, and there were just the two of us, we
talked constantly. She is very, very friendly and easy to talk and be with.
If you can, please call her and let her show you her city!!!
Kathy B in KC

come on! anyone in brazil! i want to try and call
someone there! contact me privately with your number.
or the number and room at the parthenon.
i'm not a nut case--i want to see if the 10-10-987
number works.
diane

David,
I would suggest that you email Dr. Marchesini if you haven't
already. When I wrote to him with a problem, Dr. M had ideas that my
doctors had not thought of. I really hate to whine to him. I have
only written him once with a problem, but he was as insightful and
caring for me as a post-op as when I was in Curitiba.
Wishing clearer skies for you soon,
Kathy in MS

Dr. M was a first in one special way. When someone talks up a movie forever
I am let down. When someone a million years talked up "you have to meet
this guy" it was a let down. You get the gist. If someone went on and on
forever about how something was so very perfect there was no way that person
or event could live up to expectations. The thing is......Dr. M does. I do
not understand how/why all these wonderful combinations of skill &
personality, etc. came together but I certainly will never question it. W

Hello everyone,
Ok, I'm writing to bitch moan and complain. I wanted to warn everyone right
up front.
For about the last week I feel like I've had a set back of a month or so. I
can't seem to eat anything. I even threw up after eating a pork rind a few
days ago, and they had been something that agreed with me before. I seem to
always have a slightly upset stomach and other times I'm down right naseous.
When I can find something that agrees with me I can't eat as much of it as I
could a week ago. I just don't feel like eating at all. Nothing tastes
good, nothing sounds good and nothing agrees with me. The least little bit
of carbs and I have horrible gas. Bleh. I've just generally felt weak and
tired. I know I'm not getting in enough protein. And those things are no
doubt related.
I'm in my 2nd week of classes for the fall semester and I know that is
wearing me out. Also having 2 bouts of kidney stones in the last week
hasn't helped. I fought them last Friday night in a hotel room in New
Jersey, and again Tuesday night (with an oh so fun trip to the ER).
I'm just so frustrated. I feel bad about not getting enough protein in.
I'm just tired, and run down. This bit with not being able to eat much of
anything is driving me nuts. I know it will get better, and I can hardly
complain about my weight loss. So I guess I'm just whining.
Clear Skies, (though they are looking a bit grey right now)
Dave in Ohio

Ana's phone number was in the American Box, I believe Kathy from KC left
it there. The front desk also has her phone number. She speaks English
and she is very nice.
Becca

Feel free to gripe all you want. You know we are always here for you,
Lisa.
You have to admit, flying off to Brazil to have surgery does sound a
little weird when you think about it. It made perfect sense to me, but I
can see where he would have a few reservations.
I agree with you, it is nice when you can support each other. Give him a
little time, he may come around.
Becca

Oh Kathy, that must have been miserable for you. I am lucky that salad
and cole slaw is not bothering me. I am trying to keep my calories
down, that is why I am focusing on eating that.
Becca

This is what the tv guide says about that show. I don't think I will
have my husband sit down with me on this one.
"Extremely Perfect"
Gastric-bypass surgery sometimes results in injury or death; actor
Wayne Knight loses 100 pounds without surgery or diet drugs; family
members go on a low-carbohydrate diet; Subway's spokesman Jared Fogle
discusses his weight loss.
Rated: Not Available
Runtime: 60 min
Talk, Newsmagazine
9:00 PM Fri., Sep 3 Ch 11, KTVT
- STEREO
- CC
Record to my TiVO DVR
Remind Me
Add To My TV Favorites
Find out more about this show

Kathy, it seems like everybody has these plateaus where we stop losing
weight and it is so frustrating. I am trying to be patient, I am sure
this will pass.
Becca

I am 5' tall and I am supposed to weigh around 120 pounds. I weigh 236,
so I have a long way to go. I felt comfortable when I weighed 135-150
pounds.
Becca

Who's Ana?? I've seen her name enough now that I need to know!
LOL
Lisa
Oct. 2

I suppose I am looking in all the worng places....I tried the files
section...is it in Dr Marchesini's FAQ? It didn't seem to be in
the "Brazil Phone numbers" file... any clue which one it might be in?
thanks again, Kate

Hi Kate,
Sorry about that. I thought for sure it was there, but now I see that its
not.
Could someone who still has Ana's cell number post it here, and I'll put it
in the files section.
Clear Skies,
Dave in Ohio
_____
From: kate [mailto:fkmcfarland@...]
Sent: Thursday, September 02, 2004 8:08 PM

Hi Kate,
You need to contact Ana. Her info is in the files section I believe.
Curitiba time would be 4 hours different that PST (I think!). So noon in
PST would be 4pm in Curitiba
Clear Skies,
Dave in Ohio
_____
From: kate [mailto:fkmcfarland@...]
Sent: Thursday, September 02, 2004 6:09 PM

I'm sure this has been posted before , but i can't for the life of me
find it... Who do I contact to set up dental work? And also, what
is the time difference between PST and Curitiba, if anyone knows.
Thanks in advance,
Kate

Hi Nina,
We'd love to see you there and it would be great info for your daughter as
well. We need more medical practitioners versed in this surgery for
aftercare. Also, Dr. Bill Hartman, who is coming with Dr. Rabkin does their
psych evals and may have some insight into the emotional side of the surgery
as well. Should be a very interesting meeting and we always have a great
time. Here is the info:
Please mark you calendars!!! Dr. John Rabkin and Dr. Bill Hartman will be
our guests in September. Please come and bring a friend and a snack to
share.
September 11, 2004
11:00 - 1:00
2427 Carrick Street
Farmers Branch, TX 75234
972-277-3579 (wk)
Directions: Going north on I-35 take the Valley View Lane Exit,
turn right on the first street Carrick (besides the old Word of
Faith Church) Going south on I-35 take the Valley View Lane Exit,
turn left(go under the highway) Turn right on Denton Road, 2 block
south on the right. We are directly across from the D.A.R.T.
station and the new Dallas Stars Center that is currently under construction
Val in TX
DS 09/30/03
286/160/135-140?

Becca,
I remember you saying that you were able to eat salad right after surgery. I
tried a little bit of salad last week. Oh!!! What!!! A Mistake!!! I had
horrible....did I say....horrible stabbing gas pains!!! It was sooo painful, I
could hardly stand it!
I will be waiting a while before I try that again!
Kathy B in KC

Becca, I know exactly what you mean. I have stayed exactly the same for three
weeks now. So discouraging. I know that it will change and I have stopped
weighing all the time too.
Went to the doctor for a checkup yesterday, my six weeks out. She says
everything looks and sounds good. Nothing is really bothering me. I have about
98% energy back, can eat a little bit more than before, can get all the vitamins
in etc.
I have a sorta pain/pinching feeling just to the right of my incision in the
middle occasionally. She says that is normal, I had lots of stuff moved and
switched. I go back in 4 weeks for blood workup.
Just wish I could loose a little more, especially in light of how little I am
eating!
Kathy B in KC

Salads do not bother me, but I use fat free salad dressings. I have
solid bowel movements. I have not experienced diarrhea since I came
home. If I was eating more fat, that would probably change things.
BTW, my seroma stopped draining 2 days before my one month anniversary.
Good luck with yours, I hope it dries up soon.
Becca

Salads? How is your body dealing with the Salads? I mean in regards to bathroom
activities?
Konstantin

Lisa, my husband was not thrilled about me going to Brazil either, so I
know how you feel. I had a lot of questions about the surgery, the
doctor, the hospital, the hotel, changing planes, Brazil money, visas,
diets, etc. One day I would be a little apprehensive, another day I
would be excited. I did not talk to my husband about any of this. I
talked to the people in this group and to my friends.
You are not asking for any advice, but if you did, I would say do not
discuss going to Brazil with your husband.
Becca

Marybeth, I have always been a slow loser. I hope this revision will
help me lose some weight, but when I noticed I only lost one pound last
week, I was discouraged.
I am not eating any rice, pasta, potatoes, bread, sweets or junk. I am
eating meat, vegetables and salads. For dessert I have all the
excitement sugar free Jello can bring. When I want to go wild, I will
add a little fat free Cool Whip to my Jello.
Becca

The week before school starts I take each grandson for a day of lunch and
excursions. I couldn't do it last year so this week was special since I am
back in the Nana business again. W

Val,
When and where is the meeting? We are going to be in Dallas on September 11th.
I'd like to come... and maybe even bring my daughter who is a family practioner
in Dallas so she could hear Dr. Rabkin. She has a PA who has had an RNY... and
she might be interested in hearing about the differences from someone besides
ME! :)
Nina
Val McLean <vjmclean@...
Hi Lisa,
You have got to get your husband to come to our local support group meeting
on September 11th! It really put my hubby at ease to talk with the hubby of
our leader. She had serious health issues and he really put Rick's (my dh)
mind at ease. He will see lots of folks who have been through this and can
ask any questions he wants. Plus, Dr. John Rabkin will be speaking and he
usually does a powerpoint presentation that explains the benefits vs. the
risks and long-term results of the DS compared with other weight-loss
surgeries. He does a great job and will stay and answer questions one-on-one
if he doesn't feel comfortable asking in a group setting. If you can get
hubby to go, I'll have mine attend also and we could even go get a iced tea
or soda or something after the meeting. Rick is very logical-thinking and
once he saw things presented in a very logical way, he was on-board. It sure
couldn't hurt! I'll also bring my pics of Brazil and the hospital, etc. to
show him.
Darlene is planning on coming up for the meeting also so I'd love to meet
you both. Let me know what you think.
Just an FYI, be sure to carefully check out the international plan for your
cell phone. We switched to new global phones before we went to Brazil, but
they didn't work once we got there. We bought phone cards from Sam's Club
and had no problems using them. Just be sure to get the right number for
Curitiba before you leave. We also took a web phone and hooked up to the
computer when we were in the hotel and could call out over the internet for
free. The delay is a little annoying, but if you are careful to not talk
over the other person, it works fine. I also used instant messenger to talk
with my kids while I was there. We enjoyed that a lot.
Hang in there and let me know about the meeting.
Hugs,
Val in TX
DS 09/30/03
286/160/135-140?

Lisa.....Outback steakhouse has a wonderful FOS....but hte best I ever had was
at the Marroitt Hotel Greenspoint in Houston...
48 and fat......but gonna be
50 and FABULOUS!!! healthy too
Darlene in Tx

Okay, I know of people who are having surgery in early October, and
others who are having surgery the last week of October. But I
haven't heard anyone else mention having their surgery the same week
as me. Anyone out there?
Janice
pre-op, 10/20/04

Geez, sounds like you had a whopper of a bad day!! {{{WENDY}}}
Hoping everything falls right into place in the perfect timing for
you. Ya need to relax though. Light some candles, take a long hot
bath, and clear ya mind of all your troubles. Take some alone time
for yourself to chill and regroup. This overload of worry will kill
ya!
MB

Well hubby talked to someone who knows someone who knows someone who
had the RYN....we had a small argument..nothing really bad....I told
him, you know what you didnt even talk to the person who had the
surgery, you didnt even talk to the person who knew the person,you
talked to someone who was way down the line!! lol..You dont really
know if that person had all those complications or not, your going
by hearsay, and you know how gossip is, it starts out one thing, and
the next thing you know its totally different, like when you had
your heart atttack, had surgery, you ran into a guy you hadnt seen
in a while, and he told you that he was surprised to see you because
he had heard you had died of a heart attack!!
after I told him...listen here bud, you wanted a boat really bad, it
took you a while but you got it, I WANT this surgery, and damnit
(sorry for the swear word) I AM going to get it, wiether insurance
decides(which is looking really good!)to pay for it, or i have to go
to brazil, I AM getting it....after everything was said and done, he
says...honey I have watched you, I see what you eat, I know you have
tried, and im not saying you cant have this, i know you want it, but
you cant stop me from being worried, and you should be glad that i
do worry, cus it means i still love ya....AAAWWWW
so the long and the short of it, he says im gonna have days where i
will be totally behind you, and days where i am going to be scared,
when i am scared, dont get mad, I understand what you are going
thru, and what you want, but you have to understand, that your my
wife and i get scared, that dont mean i dont want you to have this
surgery, it just means you need to talk to me, and let me get it off
my chest.he also said when he gets scared, for me to get off my high
horse(lol) and not be so sensitive, because he isnt going to deny me
my surgery, he just needs to blow up sometimes,and for me not to
take it personally..it is just his way....
well me being me, i told him, ok hunny, next time you fill that way,
you let me know, and i will knock the crap out of you, and when you
wake up, your scared moment will be over with, and we will not have
to go thru this again :) hehehe
steph

So Sorry Wendy! You wrote "Today was the middle Grandson's day" and
I sub-consciously thought you meant birthday. Either way, it is nice
that you get to spend time with your grandkids and are obviously a
thoughtful and loving grandmother. Here's to hoping that we have
great days today too! And I am going to have to get some French
Onion soup for lunch now beings that everyone else has made me start
craving it! It has always been one of my absolute favorites :)
Andrea

Hi Dave... Poor u... I know u r in terrible pain, I watched my dad
years ago going through the passing if stones and he was in a lot of
pain.. First time i seen a man his size on his knees in terrible
pain, I will pray for u and hope that all goes well and u find sum
answers soon..(hugs and Kisses):)
wendy a

Candy....we've got to hang out! I love the way you write! I just
find myself snuggling in to read your posts as if I was starting a
good book! I LOVE what you have to say and believe it or not...it's
good information for us!! Just wanted you to know...I'm glad you are
out of lurk status! You're fun!
Lisa
Switch date Oct 2!!

Nope....I didn't say it was his birthday, did I? I can't imagine I did.
Maybe I misled you cause I said I was treating him to something. I always
take the boys out one at a time the week before school starts for an outing
and lunch. Picked the Collector's Corner because he's into
baseball/football cards and I knew they had stools I could sit on while
waiting. I rarely go into a store but when I do it has to have two things.
It cannot be in a mall but a place where the handicapped parking is right
next to the door and somewhere to sit the minute I get inside. I don't
shop. I don't know how people existed before catalogs or online shopping.
Glad we both had good days. W

<<< That's so definitive .... when we're full - we're FULL
Isn't that the truth? I was eating a 5 oz. filet before. A little more than
half way through I was thinking I better slow down because I'll be full
soon. I waited a minute and took another bite. I absolutely knew it would
be a mistake to swallow it and spit it out and stopped. I can usually put
in a little extra cottage cheese or soft food but when it comes to meat or
something solid when my stomach says no more...it means it. W

Candy,
I am six weeks out and I really enjoyed reading your post. It's nice to hear
what might be in store for us in the future!
Kathy B in KC

O.K., you guys have done it to me again! Yesterday it was spaghetti and
meatballs ........ today I just had to have French onion soup-cheese and
all.
I've loved it for many decades and have had some wonderful versions and lots
of very dissapointing ones ...... like the upscale restaurant that tasted
like chicken grease and the quaint little place called Le Petite Jardin
........ served in a proper crock but with a few very hard boxed croutons
and a piece of cheddar! thrown on top that was barely melted from the heat
of the soup ...... unbelievable!
I make a quick version that's better than lots I've had ....Campbells (don't
laugh) onion soup, well done toast and aged swiss cheese, broiled until
brown and bubbly .....mmmm good ...... just finished a small bowl ........
two bites left that I simply can not finnish.
That's so definitive .... when we're full - we're FULL.
My sisters, Mom and I all love FOS ...... but private family joke is we
refer to it as "poop soup" because of the after effects ...... time will
tell tonight .....
Lori K

OK.....now you can tell your DH that somebody UPSTAIRS wants you to have the
surgery and really blow his mind. Sorry..I'm not making light of the
situation. I am so lucky I had my daughters' and brother's support. It
must be horrible to have to buck the opinion of someone you love. All I can
say is I hope he apologizes to you big time down the road when he realizes
how right you are to do this. W

Glad my letter helped and you'll see when you read elsewhere that today was
perfect. It sure isn't like last year when all the bad days were strung
together. An occasional bad one I can live with. Thanks for caring. And
I'll tell you what I've told Andrea I think it was. I owe you one big hug.
You can claim it on the day of your choice. I hope you never have a bad day
but since they are a part of life....remember....all you have to do to claim
your hug is say you need it. W

Great post.. Yea Deborah I tall my hubby eveyday that he would
benefit by this also....lol
He thinks Im going to die or leave him for someone else, which is
crazee, i think my hubby is HOTT!! But it really does stress u out
when i talk and babble and am on this computer all the time and
running here and there to get things done and i think since he is not
getting as much attention right now. he is feeling a little left out.
and he hears me say to friends and family that its time for me t
think bout me for once.... so i think that is where some of the
meaness comes in, when he gets moody and says just try to loose
weight urself...BRazil what is going on with u.. lol oh well, like u
deborah all of our husbands will be so glad we did this....
wendy A
swithsister
9/28/04

My Jim was also unsupportive initially. But just today, as we readied to eat
our lunch out, he told me, "You look terrific, Ma." At the restaurant, we ran
into acquaintances at the door who hadn't seen me for a while. One mentioned
that I looked really good, and my Jim said, "That's what I told her." Later,
some close friends stopped by our table for a hug and a few words. When it was
mentioned that I was looking really good, Jim said, "I really think so too!"
Three compliments from my soul mate in under an hour is a first in our 25 year
relationship. I think he meant it.
This is great stuff for me, but also great for Jim, don't you think? Hugs,
Sherry
Nightsewer@... wrote:
My husband was the same way. NOW he is just incredibly wonderful. He now
runs people down to tell them about me. He has told most of the overweight
people on his job. He tells everyone how happy he is since I have had this
surgery.
Sherry Head
High 290 1/13/04 Pre-op 260.5 8/28/04 194.0 Total Loss 66.5 Weekly loss/gain
2.0
Diabetes cured
I has met the enemy and he is us! - Pogo

Ah..you didn't get the word that Big Brother and Race were an hour early
because of the convention. Remember you can watch Race on Saturday in the
repeat. Set your VCR if you are going out. For the record today was a
wonderful day. Today it was the middle grandson's day. I always take each
boy for lunch and whatever the week before school starts. I missed last
year and it was such a pleasure to be able to do it again. He spent an hour
agonizing about how to spend $15 I was allowed to spend in a store called
Collector's Corner which sells baseball and football and other cards. It
was such fun watching him trying to figure out what he wanted. Then we went
to lunch. So all is right with my world again. And tomorrow I do
absolutely nothing because my knees aren't happy and need a day off. <g

Great David that there are no more. I just commented that is exactly what
you needed to know. Hopefully now it is clear sailing. Sorry you had to go
through it yet again but hopefully it is now all over. W

Well I guess it's time for me to vent a little... My day was terrible
from the very beginning...
-my 4 yr old started prechool today woooohooo!! I was so excited
taken pics and everything. My hubby said to wake him up and he would
ride with me since she had to be there at 7 and he doent go to work
until 8.. Well i go to get him up and he says just go on.. I said its
her first day, and he said its just daycare.. after i been telling
him for 2 days how nice of a SCHOOL it is and how im so glad she got
in.. He just acted like it wasnt a big deal and it pissed me off...
-then i go to my enscope consoltation at 145 and this doc is wanting
to give me the enscopsy and a colonopsy at THE SAME TIME.. ummm NO my
dad passed away of colon cancer 2 yrs ago and i put that on my
paperwork so he felt NOW i should do this too...WHY WHY WHY???? Also
a ct scan... My pcp set this up and only told him i had heart burn
which i do but she was glad to hear i had heartburn caus my insurance
will pay for those test if i have a reason to have them, and te dont
consider having wlsis a reason... Newayz... He said it was my choice
after he did all of that,"well this would be better" crap... so all
three of these done in the same day with more ways to find sumthing
wrong for me not have this surgery....WHAT SHOULD I DO?
-then i go to post office to do my passport pics and fill out the
neccesary paperwork $188.20 to have it by next thursday.. wow.. from
85.00 to 188.20 cause i had to wait til the last minute due to
funds.... My 4 yr old was running screaming jumping and acting like
someone elses child, i go over to her with her jerking and i
fell...IMBARASSED everyone came running and she was still showing her
tail.... I hurt my wrist cause all my weight fell on it.. GEEEZZZ I
am stressing i think....I have to have my ticket paid for by this
friday and then the visa when i get the passport and all these test
and if i dont sell my car within 2 weeks i have to cancel the surgery
and of course no refunds on anything...Do u ever feel like ur on this
journey on ur own? I mean even if people around wouldsee im stressing
a little and take over for a minute or sumthing... IM GONNA DO THIS
one way or the other... Well this is along drug out post and I am so
sorry.. Ty for listening... WHHHOAAA i feel so much better...Ohhh 1
good thing is I lost 6 more lbs.. so 9 total in 3 weeks.wooohoo..
wendy A.
switchsister
9/28/04

My husband was the same way. NOW he is just incredibly wonderful. He now
runs people down to tell them about me. He has told most of the overweight
people on his job. He tells everyone how happy he is since I have had this
surgery.
I never really thought, thoroughly, the difference that it would make in his
life. That is the one thing I wish that I would have done differently. I
sure thought I had it figured out, but I didn't. It will be a big change in
your husband's life too.
Some things are harder, like I can now out walk him at Disney World. I have
this energy level that is to die for. I can really go, man, go. There are
bad sides too. Men look at me. And he sees them looking at me. ( I don't)
(Never did) In a way it makes him proud knowing that I am desireable and in a
way it makes the little green eyed guy pop up. But he is working on it.
Another thing that that has changed is that I HAVE a sex drive now. He is
totally delighted with that one.
My DH has said that he would be happy to tell other DH's the good things to
come if they would like to talk to him. Just email me off list and I will
send you my phone number and he will get together on a time to call. ( I will
admit I have a Southern Gentleman for a husband)
Deborah Powell
85 pounds lighter
1000 pounds happier

I have become the family joke. They all laugh at me. I was very
rarely hungry pre-op. Never got the whole listen to your body thing
down. Now I get hungry. It is always ME that is hungry. No one
else ever even says it now cuz they know I'll pipe up soon <lol
MIL was here last week and said I'm like a bird in the nest 'peep peep
peep' 'feed me!'.
I eat regularly. I have 6 slices of bacon before leaving to work.
Later in the morning I eat a Atkins Brownie bar. Adds 20g protein and
the texture just works well with my water in the morning. I usually
eat some type of snack mid-morning, eat leftovers most days for lunch,
another snack when I get home mid-afternoon and I'm ready for dinner
by 5 or so.
Do I eat a lot? Sometimes it seems so. Especially those few days
before my monthly but .... when I add it up in my head ... not so
much. Not so little either <lol
pre-op. Pre-op I tended to have binge days but generally didn't eat
large volumes. Now it's steady and regular.
I eat normal size portions. More than my 6 yr old. Less than my
husband. Pretty close to what my friends eat. Might be a bit less.
When I go out to eat I have to be sure to eat my entre first because
when I run out of room... I'm out of room. I don't push it at all.
I have a friend who is obese and she shared with another friend that
her concern would be not being able to eat as much and when she wants.
You know what? I can understand that but what I've found is that I
can count on one hand the times I've felt that way since about 3
months out (can't count those months...eh?). When I have something
that tastes really, really good and I want to eat more I realize that
I can. Just not right that minute. I save it and eat it later. Once
I truly got that through to my conscious mind, no more problem. The
only time I do have that problem is rare items.
Example: We went to a restaurant on a road trip last weekend that I
may never return to, if I do I'm sure it will be a long time. I
ordered a Tuna Filet sandwich. The special included fries with
paremesan/garlic. Yummm. I asked if I could have those fries with my
sandwich and they couldn't do that. Darn good thing too! They would
have been wasted because that sandwich was WAY good and WAY filling.
The filet was about 3/4 inch thick and it was on dense, yummy bread.
I roared through the first half, reluctantly giving my MIL a taste
<lol
put it down and visited, and hemmed and hawed, hoping to make more
room. Took another bite. Knew that I was near the end. It was SO
GOOD and I couldn't take any leftovers with me because we were miles
from home in the AZ heat. That made me sad. But not too sad. I did
fit in the armed chair at the restaurant <wink
Just for reference; from about 1 year out I usually do eat an entire
sandwich and maybe pick at a few fries when eating out. I can eat an
entire Jack In The Box Ultimate Cheeseburger if I haven't eaten in a
few hours and I don't try to eat fries or drink soda with it.
I am not one of the strong that stick to a mostly low carb lifestyle.
I lost 97lbs. Was hoping for 120lbs. Very happy where I am. Can't
even kick it in gear for those last 3 yet <lol
very happy? I eat more than enough protein almost every single day,
drink more than enough water almost every single day, take all my
vitamins every single day and the rest, I let take care of itself. If
I want cookies. I eat cookies. If I want pasta, I eat pasta. I know
the effects different foods have and determine if it's worth it.
Sounds like a 'normie' eh? Too much sugar makes me feel sluggish and
give me looser bowels. Too much soda makes my triglycerides rise.
Pasta and bread used to be big deals to me. Now I still enjoy them
but a piece of toast or bread with butter is enough. Don't really
care for more. Pasta gives me a kind of heavy feeling that I don't
like so I tend to eat it as a compliment to my meat instead of as the
main course. Not because I have to but because it sounds better.
Ok, I've rambled on enough. Just thought I'd give you one woman's
perspective after some time out.
Candy
06.03.03

Sounds like a pretty clear sign to me. Now, if it had said, "the best time for
international calling is October 2nd," even your husband wouldn't be able to
argue with that one!
Janice
10/20/04

it was a brochure from my cellphone carrier and in bold print it said "START
USING YOUR WIRELESS PHONE FOR INTERNATIONAL CALLS TODAY. WITH AT&T WIRELESS, THE
BEST TIME FOR INTERNATIONAL CALLING IS ANYTIME".
How do you argue with THAT??

{{ David}}}
People have compared kidney stones to childbirth. I haven't
experienced either one of them. My step sons came to me as a
blessing and pain free. Sorry you are experiencing the pain and wish
I had some wisdom to give you concerning your problem, but I don't.
Just wanted to give you a lil hug and say that I am sorry you are
having to deal with this. I hope you can find some answers and
relief real soon.
Hugs,
MB

Wendy,
I'm not sure if this will work, but try minimizing AOL, then open Internet
Explorer and sign into the group from there.
Janice

I can understand that. Hopefully, he will find a way to steal a couple of
hours away. If not, we'll give you all the support and info we can and you
can share it with him later.
See ya soon!
Val in TX
DS 09/30/03
286/160/135-140?

Hi Wendy,
The files need to be on your system, and in .jpg format. There are
instructions on posting pictures in the files section. If you can't get it
to work you are welcome to send me the pictures and I will post them for
you.
Clear Skies,
Dave in Ohio
_____
From: wendy [mailto:sexydragon420@...]
Sent: Wednesday, September 01, 2004 1:40 AM

Hi Lisa,
You have got to get your husband to come to our local support group meeting
on September 11th! It really put my hubby at ease to talk with the hubby of
our leader. She had serious health issues and he really put Rick's (my dh)
mind at ease. He will see lots of folks who have been through this and can
ask any questions he wants. Plus, Dr. John Rabkin will be speaking and he
usually does a powerpoint presentation that explains the benefits vs. the
risks and long-term results of the DS compared with other weight-loss
surgeries. He does a great job and will stay and answer questions one-on-one
if he doesn't feel comfortable asking in a group setting. If you can get
hubby to go, I'll have mine attend also and we could even go get a iced tea
or soda or something after the meeting. Rick is very logical-thinking and
once he saw things presented in a very logical way, he was on-board. It sure
couldn't hurt! I'll also bring my pics of Brazil and the hospital, etc. to
show him.
Darlene is planning on coming up for the meeting also so I'd love to meet
you both. Let me know what you think.
Just an FYI, be sure to carefully check out the international plan for your
cell phone. We switched to new global phones before we went to Brazil, but
they didn't work once we got there. We bought phone cards from Sam's Club
and had no problems using them. Just be sure to get the right number for
Curitiba before you leave. We also took a web phone and hooked up to the
computer when we were in the hotel and could call out over the internet for
free. The delay is a little annoying, but if you are careful to not talk
over the other person, it works fine. I also used instant messenger to talk
with my kids while I was there. We enjoyed that a lot.
Hang in there and let me know about the meeting.
Hugs,
Val in TX
DS 09/30/03
286/160/135-140?

Speaking of weather....what's it like down there? Say...at the end
of September/beginning of October? I see it's very mild there right
now. Is it sticky and humid? Do they have winter there when we have
it here? Or do they have winter at all....I would guess they are so
far south...they don't have much in a way of winter, do they? Been
curious but haven't though to ask. Thanks...
Lisa
Switch date Oct. 2!!
---.

Hi George,
Well I ended up in the hospital over this one. I was so nauseous that I
couldn't take any pain meds. Finally about 4am I couldn't take it anymore
and went to the ER. They gave me an IV for pain and I passed the stones
while in the hospital. They also did a CAT scan. They didn't see any
stones on the scan though. I don't know if that is good or bad. When I
finally passed them there were 5 or 6 small stones (or 5 or 6 pieces of one
larger stone). I guess I got home about 7am. I shudder to think what this
ER visit is going to cost me.
All I do know is that I have to find a solution to this problem. I can't
continue to deal with this every 10 days to 2 weeks. At least I can't
continue to do it and stay sane.
Clear Skies,
Dave in Ohio
_____
From: George Leppla [mailto:gleppla1@...]
Sent: Wednesday, September 01, 2004 10:32 AM

Hi Robin,
Typically Doc M uses subcutaneous sutures. Then he puts in 3 stitches on
the surface of the incision. Those stitches he will remove when you have
your final office visit with him.
I bought my binder before I left. As I've said before I would recommend the
Dale Bariatric Binder. I think its superior to the binders you can get in
Brazil.
By the time I was on my way home I had no pain, so I didn't need any meds.
If you are still having pain you can continue to take your liquid Tylenol.
Yes he will give you something to help you sleep if you ask.
I got out of the hospital on Saturday. I was walking outside by Sunday. I
didn't really feel up to "seeing the sights" until the following weekend.
Part of the problem was that the weather was cold when I was there. If it
had been nicer I would have been more motivated to go out. YMMV as always.
Clear Skies,
Dave in Ohio
_____
From: saipanmom [mailto:jkrdrmom@...]
Sent: Wednesday, September 01, 2004 11:24 AM

Hi,
HAY!!!! Do we have the same husband???? HMMMMM....well, probably
not, but my DH's attitude is pretty much the same. He thinks it is
just one of my "crazy" ideas. He thinks I should try something else
more "normal" (Again? for the millionth time?) But actually, my
husband is a very active busy person and I am the more cautious one
(when I am not thinking up my "crazy" ideas).
I am almost 41 (in december) and am tired to death of being in this
fat, ugly, uncomfortable, unhealthy body. I am not going to waste
any more time, money or struggle on another "normal diet" ever
again. I have decided to do this for ME!!! I am doing it so I can
be a better mother to my children! I am doing it so I can be a
better person all around!
I want my DH's support, but if he will not give it than that is the
choice he will have to make. If he wants to put money before my
health and the health of our family, than that is his choice. I am
still doing this no matter what. I love the crazy guy, but I have to
love myself more right now.
I too have prayed and prayed and than prayed again about this. I
just feel "right" about it! I am willing to risk my life for this
though it probably is less of a risk than the risk I am taking every
day with possible diabetis, high BP, depression, anxiety and sleep
apnea.
Everyone else I really care about tell me this is a great idea and
they are supportive (my mom, sister, friends, children, PCP,
therapist etc....) If DH doesn't want to get on the Support train,
than he will just miss it and have to wallow in his own missfortune.
Well....I am getting off my soap box now (thud!!!)
Robin G in st. louis
getting switched Oct 26th (leaving in 52 days!)
240/240/???

Hi everyone,
Does Dr M use sutures or staples for the incision? Does he remove
what he uses before you leave for home? I was just wondering about
that?
Also, did you get your binder there or before you got to Curitiba?
Does it really help?
Did Dr. M give you any meds for pain or to help you sleep on the way
home?
How soon after the Surgery were you able to get up and see the sights
(if you were able to at all!)
That is it for now (until I think of more questions :-))
Thanks
Robin G in St. Louis
240/240/???
Getting switched on OCT 26th (leaving in 52 loooong days)

On the husband subject....My husband and I had it out again last
night. One day he's good and the next day he's not. On his "good
days"...he's just okay listening to me talk but he doesn't say much.
On his bad days, he rolls his eyes when I mention it and acts kinda
like I'm going through a phase and I'll get over it. Last night, he
ONE MORE TIME wanted me to make an appt with a Dr. and he'd go with
me and have him give me "other options". Now that HIS parents know,
THEY are all freaked out and bringing him back down again about it
all...GAWD! He said again how STUPID going to Brazil is and how I
have idiotic ideas and don't usually think rationally anyway and how
I fly by the seat of my pants and make poor decisions! MAN! He's
being SO ugly! I DO usually fly by the seat of my pants....I get a
little goofy sometimes with wanting to be more adventurous than
him....but I am a 41 yr old mom..and a great mom at that that makes
GOOD decisions. He is VERY conservative and lets fear stand in his
way of EVERYTHING! That's why we are so good together...he keeps me
from going off the deep end and I pull him the other way, too! BUT
THIS one is just STRESSING ME OUT!! Last night after all the kids
went to bed and we had "the conversation" AGAIN...I said I was going
for a quiet drive to get out of the house for a while. While I was
gone I got pulled over for driving into a newly developed
neighborhood and they thought I was a possible appliance burgler!
LOL Yeah...small town and not many people out past 10:30pm! LOL
Anyway..while I was out, I was praying for guidance with this
decision and asking God to talk to me and let me know which way I'm
supposed to go with this. My husband and I never fight and we always
come to an agreement when we disagree on somthing, so I needed a
little assistance. I was gone for about an hour and talking to God
for a lot of this time asking for guidance. Well...when I got home,
I drove by the mailbox to pick up yesterdays mail. I opened the
mailbox, took out the junk mail and one envelope. I opened the one
envelope and in it was a brochure from my cellphone carrier and in
bold print it said "START USING YOUR WIRELESS PHONE FOR INTERNATIONAL
CALLS TODAY. WITH AT&T WIRELESS, THE BEST TIME FOR INTERNATIONAL
CALLING IS ANYTIME".
How do you argue with THAT??
Lisa
Switch date Oct 2!!

Gorgeous pictures, Wendy. And a lovely family. Thanks for directing us to your
WEB page. Hugs, Sherry
wendy <sexydragon420@...
get my pics up here in

Hi u guys... I had another ? of course...
when i go under the FILES some of the bigger files like the
important ones a message comes up that the file is too big for aol to
support it. Do u guys know if there is any other way i can get into
these or be able to read these files another way..?? Like the bus
tour info and the comparasion in the surgeries file and also the
Journal 1 by michelle?
Ty guys u know how much i luv ya!!!
wendy A
switchsister
9/28/04

Hey girl.. Im sorry to hear about ur bad day... Today is a new day
and it will be better..((huggggsssss))
I wanted to thank u again for writing that touching letter to my
family.... It WORKED!!!!! WOOOHOOOO!!!
I talked with my gma about everything including Brazil and she is
very supportive... My mom has been supportive from the get go and my
sis is ok now since i finally told my gma about doing this out of the
country..As far as my hubby he is just worried about sumhing
happening to me.. My family depends on me alot...They are ALL worried
about me going alone...Dortha said my airline tickets had to be
purchased by the 3rd so 2 dayssssss.... No one can go so Im on my
own.. I feel alot better knowing Lisa will be there the day after my
surgery so that helps alot... Ur letter meant alot and ty again, u r
so sweet and we r very lucky to have moderators like we do...:)
Wendy A
SWITCHSISTER ON 9/28/04

Awwww Wendy...you are SO pretty!! I DISLIKE the same stuff you
dislike AND I have pretty feet! LOL I don't care much for Eminem or
tattoos or piercing...well...I love a belly piercing and it's okay
for my daughters to have their pretty belly buttons pierced when they
hit a certain age, but NO other piercings are aloud other than ears!
If I had a pretty stomach, I would have my belly button
pierced...THAT will never happen, though. I HATE HATE HATE tattoos
and will easily say that I NEVER will have a tattoo! WAY too
permanent! I hate it when my kids come home from school with
something written on their HAND that can be washed off!! LOL
Anyway...I don't care for Eminem but I do like most of the teens
music just because I have so many kids...but I also like country,
Christian, oldies, rock, pop, alternative and piano music. I'm very
weird in that way because any music that's playing, I can sing and
dance to. I truly love all music. (except opera...never could do
that! ewe!) WAY off topic....I am looking forward to meeting you
too...you seem like a neat person to hang out with! And I know you
will be missing your kids, too, so we will have THAT in common! I'm
already planning on how I'm going to leave and when, to make it the
least painful as possible on everyone (if that's possible!!) Sorry
so off topic...I'm done! OH...and I AM upbeat and energetic...MORESO
since I am finally going to do something about my fat self! WOOOO
HOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!
Lisa
Switch date Oct 2!

Well u guys since I cant figure out how to get my pics up here in

Wendy...what's your aol webpage? I wanna see who I'm going to be
hanging out in another country!
Lisa
Switch date Oct 2

In a message dated 9/1/04 12:00:44 AM Pacific Daylight Time,

Thanks....that is the part of my aggravation I didn't go into. I tried to
do soap city since my soap is As the World Turns and they do it. My other
is B&B and they don't do that one. But for some reason soapcity didn't like
me today and wouldn't let me in. That happens occasionally and I don't know
why. I either love or hate technology. The first time I tried it a when it
was new I couldn't get in. Then a few months ago all was well and I loved
watching it without commercials. And ever since it is hit and miss.
Sometimes getting it is easy and sometimes I have no idea what is what. I
also didn't say my refrigerator is dripping and I don't know from where.
And I made 4 phone calls on my "to do" list and in each instance I ended up
with messages and menus and am now waiting for 4 call backs when I am not
home tomorrow so those 4 things are still on the "to do" list. Everything
is minor and no big deal in the long run.....but it is funny how some days
we have the patience for aggravation and some days we have none.
Thanks so much for the hug. I was just about to leave the computer so yours
is my last message of the day. What a nice way to leave.......hugged.
Sending it right back to you. Plus...I owe you one BIG HUG when your next
bad day comes. All you have to do is claim your hug no questions asked and
it will be sent ASAP. W

Hi (((((((Wendy))))))),
It just sounded like you really needed a big hug so I'm sending one your
way. You have been through so much and how you have the fortitude to keep
going just amazes me. So sorry the echo was so painful for you. I am so
proud of you hanging in there and keeping on doing exactly what the next
step is so that you WILL overcome all of this and get the
plastic/reconstruction surgery you need.
I know what you mean about it being a bad day when your soap doesn't get
recorded. My son was constantly sabotaging mine by turning the satellite on
and leaving it on when he left for school so my shows would come out fuzzy
and you couldn't hear them at all. I threatened him within an inch of his
life and then my dh stepped in and set me up a vcr and tv in the kitchen so
I'm not affected anymore. YAY! One thing I thought I'd mention is that you
could download the episode you missed from www.soapcity.com. (I'm assuming
you still watch As the World Turns). They have a 14-day free trial if you
haven't ever tried that. The only thing is you have to have high speed
internet or it doesn't work. Check it out. I caught up on a few of my shows
in Curitiba that way.
Hope tomorrow is a better day!
Hugs,
Val in TX
DS 09/30/03
286/160/135-140?

What does Dr. M say? I'll be interested in what the urologist says too?
You probably need an ultrasound to see how many stones are left in the
kidneys. They seem to be passing one by one so each time is a separate
attack. It could very well be that once this batch is passed you will not
form any more. I know my ex once had 5 or 6 at the same time and he would
go months in between attacks when they didn't move. But that was 20 years
ago. Can they now blast them while they are still in the kidneys and not
the urethra? I wouldn't get discouraged yet. It could very well be you are
not forming new stones but just formed a lot all at once. I know it isn't
the same thing but Dr. M removed 9 gall stones from me when he did the DS.
If I had had a g.b. attack who would know which stone caused the attack? I
would ask the urologist for studies to find out what might or might not
happen in the next few months. Good luck and sorry for the pain and worry
this causes. W

Hello everyone,
Here I am up in the middle of the night with kidney stones again. I had
an attack of them last Friday night, and tonight makes time number 4
since my DS. This is not the way I wanted to celebrate my 8 week
anniversary. At least I'm not in a hotel 500 miles from home like I was
Friday.
I'm at a real loss about what to do. I've tried cutting out any foods
that would have oxalates in them (tea, berries, nuts, etc). I'm also
getting 50-60oz of water a day. I'd like to get in more but I just
haven't been able to so far. My concern is that maybe it's the protein
drinks that are causing these stones. If so that's a real catch 22 for
me, since even with a 30gram drink I don't quite make 70grams of protein
most days.
I suppose I need to have my PCP refer me to a urologist.
If anyone has any thoughts or advice I'd love to hear it.
Clear Skies,
Dave in Ohio
Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch by Dr. Marchesini in
Curitiba, Brazil
July 6, 2004
Highest Weight: 450lbs
Surgery Weight: 377lbs
Weight on August 6, 2004: 329lbs
Total Loss on August 6, 2004: -48lbs

Andrea...I had CHF and many other edema problems pre op and while the CHF is
resolved I am just now learning that my fluid issues are much more long
standing than I ever knew. I see a vascular surgeon on the 28th of Sept and
he will then order lymphatic and vein studies so maybe then I'll know more.
It's always been a long haul for me so why should this be any different. I
had an echocardiogram today and I had to lie on my left side for 40
minutes....impossible. My body doesn't do that. We gave up after a bit so
I'll end up having to have my pulmonary hypertension measured under general
anesthesia as in the past. We were hoping to avoid it. All this just to
hopefully be approved for PS. Yuck. I need to complain today. The
handicapped parking was all full and I had to walk so much it was a double
Percocet day. And I got home to find out my electricity blinked just long
enough that the VCR didn't tape my soap. That was almost worse than the
failure of the echo. <g
didn't start out to do so when I started this message. So thanks for being
my shrink. I'm OK now. LOL....I have to laugh at myself sometimes. W

<<< now I have enough for about 20
more meals!
I'm laughing because that is so true. Someone does my shopping for me and I
spend forever when she leaves rewrapping. 4 eight oz pieces of steak get
cut in half and each of the 8 pieces is wrapped individually so I can pull
out one at a time. Half a dozen rolls each go into their own sandwich bag
into the freezer so if I think I want a sandwich that day I pull out a roll.
And so on. A Schwans frozen dinner for 4 is really dinner for 6 and last
year was dinner for 8. And so on. <g

Hi Diane and Brittany,
Glad to know you both made it okay. I'll be praying for complication-free
surgeries and easy recoveries for you both! Keep us posted and say hi to Dr.
M. and Durval for me.
Val in TX
DS 09/30/03
286/160/135-140?

Hi Diane and Brittany... Congrates on a safe trip.... I bet u guys r
so happy..I can't wait to be there..I wish u guys the best and u will
be in m thoughts and prayers for a safe speedy recovery...Keep us
posted..
Wendy A.
switch date 9/28/04

Hi everyone from Diane (Chicago) and Brittany (SFO). We both arrived
on Monday morning after long flights. I lucked out on the Miami to
Sao Paulo flight and had 3 seats to myself, so could sleep a bit.
Durval met us at the airport and on our arrival at the hotel Dr M was
there. So far we have met Kate (who left today I believe) Isha,
Vickie and Betty. We are getting all the tips and info from them to
help us along this journey. We both had our endoscopies this morning;
Brittany says she was conscious of the whole thing; I only remember
waking up for a very brief moment and realizing a tube was in my
mouth, but no memory of them inserting or pulling it out thank God.
We have been eating Italian as well as went to a bar-b-que place this
evening for Brittany's "Last Supper". She gets admitted Wed AM early
for surgery early afternoon; I get admitted Wed PM for surgery Thurs
at 7:30AM. Looking forward to welcoming Bev to the group. Bev, my
room is 1206 (I'm keeping it while in the hospital, and my support
person arrives Sunday while I most likely will still be in the
hospital), so most likely the American Boxes will be in my room on
your arrival. Before you buy anything at the store, check them out
as they contain a lot of goodies. If you can ask the clerk on check
in to put you on the 12th floor, that would make it easier to visit.
Right now Brittany is next door in 1205, and will try to get the same
room on her return. Brittany will be taking her laptop to the
hospital, so we can continue our saga with more messages. Keep us in
your thoughts and prayers in the next few days, and we will write
again after our "switches".
Diane and Brittany

Well George, you are right, and I don't post often, but I do
read the "group" most every night... I agree - by the time I am
able to read a question in a post, 3 or 4 others have already
answered exactly what I would have said - even better! I have been
through the gamut in this weight losing saga, but none of my
experiences are different than anyone elses. I don't feel like an
expert, only an "advanced novice"! Still not to goal, and still
doing one day at a time!
Yes, my daughter 'Shella is not super-heavy, as I was, but she
does have other problems. I would not dare to call her short - she
says she is a TOWERING 5' 3"inches TALL! She does'nt have the time
to do the group thing right now (...she's going to college full time
for her bachelor of nursing, home-schooling 2 boys 7 and 5, and
chasing a rambunctious 1 year old daughter, who she is still breast-
feeding). We are looking forward to meeting the other
mother/daughter tag team in Curitiba. I goofed when I said her date
was the 26th, it is the 27th... My surgery date with Dr C is the
26th!
By the way George, your Hunkly-ness, what about the pictures of
you & the Mod-squad on the cover-page? Some of us need a "pin-up"
for our desks!!!
Sherry "Sunny" Rainey 407/219
(Dr M re-named me "Sunny", and Dr C calls me that, too!)

Andrea,
I can't believe it! This is exactly what I am experiencing. I was a heavy
water drinker preop and I knew where the restroom was located anywhere you
wanted to go. Now, I hardly ever pee. In addition, I am struggling to get in
the 64 oz of fluids, so that is probably the reason. It is just sooo strange
not to every pee.
Kathy in KC

-Hi Vicki,
I love cream of tomato soup, and french onion, too. I hope we'll be
able to eat them after a time.
How are you doing?! Have you had your surgery w/Dr. Cavalcanti yet,
if so, how did it go? I am going to have my upper and lower eyes
done, so I'm curious as to how it went with you. Is it painful, per
se?
I'm leaving Saturday for Curitiba, arrive on Sunday, and surgery with
Dr. M on Sept. 9th. I'm excited and looking forward to being there!
When are you leaving for home? I hope you're recovering well and not
having any problems.
Bev
Surgery 9/9/04

hello, sweetie--sorry you're suffering with a cold. stay
away from mommy! (laughing) and yes--now's the time
to quit smoking. my doc, pre-surgery, told me to blow up
balloons to strengthen my lungs. it's a good idea, try it!
i find it so interesting that both our weights, pre-op, were
(are) 292. though you have four inches on me.
your 5'5" mom, five minutes away by car in realtime,
now tipping the scales at 141. (another four pound loss
this month. i like to stop losing now--i'm there...)
diane

I know that tomatoes are off limits, but cream of tomato soup just
doesn't taste like it is acidic. Is it a no no?
Also, what about French onion soup?
Vicki in Brazil
Bored with chicken!!!

Hi George,
I was drinking something very similar for a long while. After awhile though
the lemon started bothering my stomach and I went back to plain water. Good
luck.
Clear Skies,
Dave in Ohio
_____
From: George Leppla [mailto:gleppla1@...]
Sent: Tuesday, August 31, 2004 8:23 PM

On my continueing quest to find something to replace my daily two quarts of
Crystal Light Diest Iced Tea.... I have stumbled across this substitute.
2 quarts water
one medium lemon
1/3 cup Splenda
Put water in a pitcher... smash the hell out of the lemon and put the juice,
pulp and peel into the water... add the Splenda. Stir and chill.
It is not strong enough to be called lemonade and hopefully not acid enough
to bother my guts. It is more like those Fruit2O flavored waters without
all the cost.
I'm trying it and so far, I'm liking it.
George in PA

Awwww Wendy, I'm sorry. My grandmom had congestive heart failure
and is on lasix so I have an idea of what you are going through. I
know it must be a real pain in the butt. I have read some posts
regarding your condition, but I don't have the whole story so
forgive me if I am off base by saying that I hope one day you can
get your fluid issues resolved so you aren't running to the pot
quite as much!
I don't know what to make of myself except to assume I don't need a
lot of liquids - never have and apparently never will. I hardly
drank any fluids before surgery and it's not much different now -
even though I try to force myself to. Maybe I just have a strong
bladder???
Andrea

I'm amazed that she got a mammogram and didn't tell them. Heck, give
me an excuse and I'm off and running at the mouth about the DS <lol
When I got mine I'd already lost enough that I knew it was going to
be very obvious. I didn't hardly fit on the little shelf before WLS!
I figured they might notice the differnce and wonder.
Great advice, btw, Wendy. Some people aren't as noisy as me.
Candy
06.03.03

In a message dated 8/31/04 12:47:53 PM Pacific Daylight Time,

You are so lucky. I pee 3-4 times an hour and always have....I drink a lot
of fluids and I carry a lot of fluid and take lasix every other day and yet
the days I don't take it are even bigger peeing days because of a delayed
reaction. I haven't slept 3 solid hours in years let alone a full night.
I'm jealous Andrea. W

-Deborah,
What an inspiring post! Thank you for sharing your victories, what it
was like before the surgery and the optimism you have for yourself,
and all of us, as well. I love hearing about post ops experiences.
I will be leaving this coming Saturday, for Curitiba, and have
surgery the 9th. I've been planning this for such a long time, so I
am more than excited. I am not having the yips yet, just feeling
peaceful about my decision to do this for myself.
Bev (Memphis)
Surgery 9/9/04

Us old timers are out here George. We just like to read and not post. So
much of the information is in the files section that we don't have much more to
say. George has covered eve