Weight loss

Hi Vicki,
Welcome home, and welcome to the other side.
Clear Skies,
Dave in Ohio
Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch by Dr. Marchesini in Ohio,
Brazil
July 6, 2004
Highest Weight: 450lbs
Surgery Weight: 377lbs
Weight on September 6: 305lbs
Total loss on September 6: -72lbs

on top.
Hey Marybeth,
How ya doing? I havent spotted you online in a while. I know you must
be busy with the kids and all but lets catch up soon and chat.
Deidre

No I'm not nuts, but I'm personally prejudiced ;-).
I have a job that sometimes requires me to drive rough, rutted,
potholed roads. The kind that make the vehicle sway quickly from
side to side. My natural reaction is to pivot at the waist, letting
my butt follow the seat, while keeping my torso somewhat vertical and
keeping the whiplash to a minimum LOL. After spending some time
doing this one day last week, I found the next day my guts really
hurt! Went away after a couple of days, but it felt like a very bad
early on post-op day.
Has anyone else noticed this? And yes, I was driving reasonably.
Otherwise, I've had no real post-op issues with muscle/gut recovery.
Mike in Bakersfield

This is also my experience at almost 5 months out. I am half way through a 30
day course of Flagyl but no changes yet. I'm keeping my fingers crossed. My
common channel is 70cc. So, we range from 55cc to 100cc. Makes me wonder if it
is related to common length. Dr. M. also told me to cut out all fat but it
doesn't seem to make a difference.
zinnia55@... wrote:
you and me, darlene, same boat. i wonder if anyone
has solved this.
oh, forgot to mention--i did a course of flagyl, too, which
seems to be many doctors' answer for this problem.
not.
diane

Aw shucks, we do not have a Trader Joe's in Texas. I will look for
these Soy Stix though. A nice way to get protein with only 110
calories. Thanks Deidre.
Becca

Hi everyone!!
I am glad to help George. I receive this on "Digest"
though and by the time I get it --questions are answered
by many more knowledgeable and current then I am.
BUT I have updated my entry on data base!!
One thing I did notice is that there are no files re: any
airport information in SaoPaulo or Curitiba. It might be
a help to someone?? George... you may have more info
than the rest of us as you are "in the business"!
2.) I started a file once on some sight-seeing that is OUT
of town ie. Iguassu/ Iguacu Falls, the train trip through
the Serra do Mar down to Paranagua, etc. I will redo
this file and attach it in the Files area.
Good Luck to all our pre-ops and Congratulations
on getting this new site "up and running right". The new
moderators were the right thing to do re helping George--
it is a labor intensive thing and I do applaud you ALL for
your excellent efforts. You do credit to Dr Marchesini...
and we all know HE is 'world-class'!
With great appreciation & hugs from Chicago!
Gloria
One comment re airtravel...when you make the initial
inquiries...INSIST not just request... that you go through
the big international airport which is called GRU-Guarlhos
International airport. (The other aiport will probably
mean you have to transfer by taxi or bus clear across
the city and that takes time! 2+ hours.. Post-surgery it
can be a very uncomfotable journey in addition!!)
Learning is a Life-Long process which keeps us young
in heart and mind!

Dawn......so glad you shared. When I was young there used to be a TV
program with Art Linkletter called "Kids say the Darndest Things". They
tried to revive it a few years ago with Cosby but that one was so staged and
forced it was nothing like the original. That is priceless and I hate to
say this but 25 years from now when she is possibly raising her own children
she will hate you when you tell this story to HER children....but that is
how family stories and memories are born. I love it and I love you for not
blowing up at her for possibly ruining all the remotes. And it is a good
giggle. <g
mother said and did. It makes her more of a real person to them. W

Andrea....go digging. I was positive I didn't have a scoop with my Dutch
Chocolate Isopure and when I called them they told me it was there.....and
it was. I'll bet if you go digging you'll find yours too. They sure don't
put them on top. W

Welcome home, Vicki. I am glad to hear you are feeling so good. Take
care of yourself and get some rest.
Becca

It surprises me that we DS'ers have such differences in our bowel
movements. My common channel is 65cm and I am almost constipated. I
have fully formed bowel movements with no diarrhea. I go once in the
morning and that is it. Right now, most of my diet is sugar free and
fat free. When I change my diet, my bowel movements may change.
Isn't this an interesting discussion? LOL
Becca

If it gets very complicated, I give up on it! I'm supposed 2B retired, and you
can see that my brain must have retired long B4 the rest of me. I can cook up a
bunch and measure out 4 oz servings into baggies and freeze them. How much
simpler can it get? Since I usually cook a little chopped onion with my hamb, I
can do that at the same time. Look how I'm saving steps and complications! Bet
you're impressed, huh? <g
Wendy Held <w.wendyh@...
generally do a pound or so at a
time ( of hamburger) because you know I will do anything not to cook. 1 lb
generally lasts me about 3 meals...either lunch or dinner
since I stick with cottage cheese for breakfast. By that time I am ready to
move on for a while to other foods and then maybe a week or so later make up
another batch. But then I only cook for one person so I know exactly how
many meals something will last. You have someone else in the house who eats
probably so planning might be slightly more complicated. <g
Sherry Head
High 290 1/13/04 Pre-op 260.5 8/28/04 192.0 Total Loss 68.5 Weekly loss/gain
2.0
Diabetes cured
I has met the enemy and he is us! - Pogo

Thanks so much Diedre! :)

In Brazil, I flew on Varig, Vasp and Tam. They are like any airline in
the US, I could see no difference.
Becca

Robin, I flew AA all the way ; but it's kinda confusing as AA does
not really fly into Curitiba, Its what they call a codeshare, and
the airline you actually fly on is TAM, a Brazilian airline.
Whichever you choose, you still have to claim your luggage after
customs in Sao Paulo, go up one flight in the terminal and re-check
in at either TAM or Varig. Tam is just a little longer walk!! (but
not by much) Both airlines fly the same kind of planes we have in
the US, single aisle with 2seats/3seats. Just leave yourself with
enough connecting time in Sao Paulo. The customs line can be long
and Americans are singled out for special treatment.
Diane
9/2

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From: "deidre_carbone" <dantoniolv@a...
Date: Fri Sep 3, 2004 5:19 pm
Subject: Trader Joe's
ADVERTISEMENT
I found some great snacks at Trader Joe's. Check them out if you have
one near you or look for them in other stores.
In Shell Pumpkin Seeds (much less salt than David's)
4g carb, 2g dietary fiber, 8g protein 180 cal in 1/4 cup edible
seriving
Go Raw Trail Mix
11g carbs, 2g dietary fiber, 5g protein, 150 cal 1/4 cup
Soytzel Soy Stix (pretzel sticks)
16g carbs, 5g dietary fiber,8g protein, 110 cal, 7 pretzel serving
Dry Roasted Edamames (lightly salted) tastes like crispy chinese
cracker
peas
9g carbs, 4g dietary fiber,14g protein, 140 cal for 1/4 cup serving
And for lunch or side dish:
Simply Aisa Soy Noodle Soup
10g carbs, -2.5 dietary fiber, 7g protein, 70 cal,1 bowl serving
Hope these are helpful
Deidre

Hi,
I have several options on flights to Curitiba.
One is on American Airlines all the way (most expensive, but no by
much)
The other options has American and Varig airlines and is a bit
cheaper.
I have never flown Varig airlines or Heard of them. What is the
opinion here of that airline compaired to American.
Thanks
Robin
10/26/04

Goodness, Stephenie, I do believe your boobs are even "perkier" than mine!
My daughter Kathleen wouldn't let me arrive home from Curitiba until she'd
purchased a George Forman for me. And I find that I use it all the time. My
spouse, who doesn't believe anything more modern than 50 years ago could be any
good, has even used my GF a time or two. Of course, it scares him. Hugs,
Sherry
stephenie <ladywolfone2000@...
I will just have to watch everyone else do the hoppy dance, the last
time i tried to do it, my poor boobs had skid marks from hitting the
floor, and when they bounced back and hit me in the head, i almost
knocked myself out!!
I love george, i get the 3 lb packages of chicken and cook it all at
once, freeze in indivial packages, and take out for my lunches( no
one in my family likes chicken unless its fried) my fav. thing is to
cut up one of the chicken breast place between 2 flour tortillas
with cheese, onions, very little green pepper,and place it in the
forman grill, then when done put a little salsa on top. i also do
that with scrambeled eggs,cheese, and salsa.
Sherry Head
High 290 1/13/04 Pre-op 260.5 8/28/04 192.0 Total Loss 68.5 Weekly loss/gain
2.0
Diabetes cured
I has met the enemy and he is us! - Pogo

AWwww.....Aren't kids just the GREATEST! How precious! I'm with ya
on the pride thing! You're a good mom! Now go get a new remote! LOL
Lisa
Oct 2

Hi Diane and Brittany!
I finally made it home yesterday after flight cancellations and an
overnight stay in Sao Paulo. I feel GREAT! My bf (giggle) picked me
up and we went to grocery store. Fixed us dinner of baked steak and
creamed potatoes, etc. It was wonderful to have home-cooked food. I
had to eat airplane and hotel food (pasta w/tomato sauce, fetuccini,
ham & cheese sandwich, croissant) on the way and was very lucky that
none of it bothered me (except a yogurt smoothie--too much milk, I
think). Of course, I took baby bites and chewed everything to a
paste and drank water with it....but no problem!
I left some baby food pears and two packets of Maggi soup mixes in
the American boxes. The Maggi soup I had was onion and was very
good. The two I left (beef and potato?) I had not tried. Also, I
had them to scramble me an egg for breakfast once in awhile. The
last 2 days there, I also had a tiny piece of pound cake from
breakfast buffet, too. Finding food in Curitiba was a challenge for
me. I wouldn't recommend Wal-Mart for food shopping....maybe the
grocery store others had gone to might be a better choice.
Hope your friend has arrived by now! I haven't heard from Isha yet.
We parted at Sao Paulo and I am pretty sure she missed her flight.
Varig had a problem with our plane and we were bussed from the plane
to the airport causing a major delay. Of course, my flight was
cancelled. Isha was flying Delta and I can only hope that they took
as good care of her as American Airlines did for me. They were
wonderful! I requested a wheelchair from Varig and they IGNORED my
request. Varig assigned a girl to get me and my bags to American
Airlines. I repeated my request to this girl for a wheelchair
because by then I was literally worn out and felt I couldn't walk any
farther. The girl just smiled at me! Finally I saw a seat and just
stopped and sat there. She waited until I could go on. I was
pissed! When I finally made it to American Airlines, they immediately
got me a wheelchair, took me to the front of the line, re-routed my
flight, and got me on board a shuttle to my hotel. The next evening
I got in a very, very long line for American Airlines again. The
same fellow who helped me the day before spotted me and pulled me out
of the line, took me to the front, and from there on it was smooth
and fast sailing! They were just great!
Glad to be home and feeling WONDERFUL!
Vicki

Congratulations, Andy. 91 lbs in 5 months is terrrrrrrrrrrrrific! Doing the
Hoppy Dance in your honor. Hugs, Sherry
mrandybaker <mrandybaker@...
I just got on the scale about 5 minutes ago when I realized I
hadn't posted anything for my 5 month mark to see where I'm at. The
scale said 176. That's a total loss of 91 pounds! HOLY COW!! I've
lost an entire BACKSTREET BOY!!
Sherry Head
High 290 1/13/04 Pre-op 260.5 8/28/04 192.0 Total Loss 68.5 Weekly loss/gain
2.0
Diabetes cured
I has met the enemy and he is us! - Pogo

Hi all,
I was hoping somebody could help me out here. I bought a container
of Isopure Vanilla protein yesterday (pretty yummy BTW), but I did
not get a "scoop" with it. I was wondering if anyone else who uses
protein powder could tell me how much a scoop is? I think I have an
old coffee scoop somewhere at home, but I am not sure that it is the
same size. I was estimating a scoop might measure to 3 or so
tablespoons, but I'd like to be sure. It would be great if somebody
could let me know.
Thanks guys!
Andrea
D/S with Dr. Marchesini on 5/5/04
204/144/100

I will just have to watch everyone else do the hoppy dance, the last
time i tried to do it, my poor boobs had skid marks from hitting the
floor, and when they bounced back and hit me in the head, i almost
knocked myself out!!
I love george, i get the 3 lb packages of chicken and cook it all at
once, freeze in indivial packages, and take out for my lunches( no
one in my family likes chicken unless its fried) my fav. thing is to
cut up one of the chicken breast place between 2 flour tortillas
with cheese, onions, very little green pepper,and place it in the
forman grill, then when done put a little salsa on top. i also do
that with scrambeled eggs,cheese, and salsa.

Dave,
Let me tell you... I actually started to panic with this much
weight loss... I started having alll sorts of negative visions... but Doc M
reassured me all is okay and that I will slow down considerably in my mid 3rd
month.... and just continue with a more measured loss.
By the way my common channel is 65cm.
Konstantin
Hi Konstantin,
Congratulations! 48 pounds in a month is fantastic. That is exactly what I
lost my first month too.
Even now at 2 months out I get tired quicker than I'd like. It does get
better though. The pain and general incision discomfort will get better
with time too.
Keep sticking with Doc M's recommendations. That's the best thing you can
do for yourself.
Clear Skies,
Dave in Ohio
Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch by Dr. Marchesini in Ohio,
Brazil
July 6, 2004
Highest Weight: 450lbs
Surgery Weight: 377lbs
Weight on September 6: 305lbs
Total loss on September 6: -72lbs

Andy!! You lucky pup! My Costco wont order them anymore. They told
me two months ago, that they don't do special orders anymore :(
DK<---Lynnwood

Hello all,
As my surgery is just around the corner, I am doing all the last minute
things and trying not to give into the "Yipes". The best way I know how to do
that
is to keep laughing. Let me tell you a true story that happended this
morning in the hopes that all who need a chuckle can find one here.
I have a precocious six year old daughter. She hears everything. That's the
preamble.
My daughter woke up early this morning as usual. She has no school today as
they are closed due to Hurricane Francis clean-up. She came into my office
to ask for my help with the TV remote. She said "Mom, its broken even though I
put juice in the batteries like Dad said." I asked her, "What did Dad say?"
She said, "He said all the batteries could use some juice." I looked at her
little face and she just started to get the feeling she did something wrong so
she repeated, "Dad said..." I asked her "what kind of juice?" She said "Just
a little Grape juice." I told her she was very smart to try and fix the
remote herself but Dad did not mean that kind of juice. It was all I could do
not
to laugh out loud, but my six year old has pride that I will not crush.
Anyway, I thought I would share this laugh with you all...
Dawn (glad the power is back on in Valrico, FL)
surgery date 9/14/04

Hi Wendy,
Thanks for your support. I try and post, but life keeps me
busy. I read much more than I post, and I'm working to change
that. I want to stay active in the group, it was and is such a huge
part of my life before surgery, I want it to be as much a part of my
life after surgery. Hopefully I can help someone half as much as I
was helped on my journey.
Protein shakes. Well, I really like Unjury. I have the
chocolate, the vanilla, and the unflavored. I used them all. I put
the unflavored in Crystal light sometimes. However, my grandmother
bought me some pre made "Carbrite" shakes recently, and I like
them. They come in chocolate and vanilla and they're 20 grams of
protein in 11 ounces. Takes me about 45 minutes to get through a
whole one, but it's fine. But, do drink them very cold as
suggested, otherwise they're gross. I'm one of the lucky ones, I
wasn't lactose interolerant. The Unjury (which has to be ordered on
the internet) is to be mixed with Milk. The chocolate does really
taste like a chocolate milk mix. It's great. I've found all sorts
of uses for the unflavored stuff too. I've put it in pudding, in
jello, in soups. Doesn't change the flavor much. As for bars, I
vary on what I like. But, Odyssey is a GREAT bar. 30 grams of
protein in each one. I much on one bar throughout the day at work.
They have several flavors. But, they're a bit pricey. 2.24 per bar
at my local Albertsons. I think if they continue to taste good to
me I'm going to order them online directly from the company. Might
be a bit cheaper, but I haven't really looked. Like I said, I get
most of my protein from "real" food now. =)
As for the vitamins, I'll list them. This is what has worked
for me. I do know that women still "cycling" tend to require more
iron. But, with that said, here's my regimen.
Morning
One Centrum
One Zinc tablet
One Citrical
One ADEK
prescription potassium (from when my cholesterol drug stole a lot
of it. I'll be getting off this soon.)
Mid Afternoon
One Centrum
One Zinc Tablet
One Citrical
One Zinc
Evening
One Centrum
One ADEK
The iron in the Centrum has been enough for me thus far. The ADEKs
are pricey, and I'm considering changing. But, then again, if it
aint broke, don't fix it. ADEKs are chewable, and they taste a bit
tart. I get them from my local Costco. They have to special order
them, but it doesn't cost anything additional. Usually only takes
one or two days to get them. =) Hope this helps. I'm always happy
to answer questions, so if you want to you can email offline at

GREAT JOB!!!!! WOW!!! 47lbs in 1 month...U GO GIRL!!!!
Congradulations and keep up the good work!!!!
WendyA.
switchsister
9/28/04(i hope)

WOW!!!!!! Congradulations on all of ur success!!! U seem so happy!
I'm so glad that u came out of the woodwork, us (preops) just love to
hear from u postops!! I wish u the very best and keep up the great
work..Good luck on ur upcoming show, especially with the "BIG KISS".
ps
what kind of protein shakes do u drink? also what vitamins do u take
everyday? ty
Wendy A
switchsister
9/28/04(i hope)

Hi All,
It's been a while since I've posted, but still think about
everyone on a daily basis. Life has me quite busy lately, but I'll
get into detail about that in the post. I'll hopefully be reading
more frequently and not playing as much catch up.
August 30, 2004 was my 5 month mark. It's been an amazing
ride. I just got on the scale about 5 minutes ago when I realized I
hadn't posted anything for my 5 month mark to see where I'm at. The
scale said 176. That's a total loss of 91 pounds! HOLY COW!! I've
lost an entire BACKSTREET BOY!! =) I couldn't be happier, and
that's an evening weight after I'd just eaten! I want to climb on
the scale tomorrow morning after, ah hem, everything is "out." =)
We'll see what it says then.
Everything is going well for me health wise. I'm off the blood
pressure meds, the cholesterol meds, and I'm even off my anti
depressant. The blood pressure and cholesterol meds have been gone
since my second month. Things are perfect in that department. I've
been off my anti depressant for about a month now and I feel great.
Even better than when I was on it, really.
I take my vitamins every day, several times a day. My labs have
come out great, and I'm having labs drawn after month six, so the
beginning of October again. Last time it was like 8 or 9 vials of
blood. I hate that part, but oh well, it's a small price to pay.
I'm doing well on my protein intake. I don't rely on the
protein bars or shakes as much as I once did. I can now get in most
of my protein via REAL food. But, I still usually have one shake or
one bar a day just to top things off, or sometimes in the morning to
get things started.
Breads don't bother me really, but potatoes do. Any form of
potatoes kill me. Chips, mashed, fried, baked, whatever. But,
that's why I keep Beano and gas x handy everwhere. I have a supply
at home, in my car, in my office, and in my "general crap" bag that
goes with me to rehearsals at night. I still go through "kicks" when
it comes to food. One day something will taste great and I'll eat
it five or six times, the next day it's like cardboard in my mouth.
But, I just go with the flow. I change things up, try not to get
bored, and focus on the protein. Some days are better than others
for water intake. Some days I hit 64 ounces without even thinking
about it. Other days I struggle to get in 40 ounces. But, at least
I'm trying. I'm serious though, I'm drinking more liquid now than I
ever did pre op. Water still tastes disgusting though. I drink a
lot of Crystal light, sugar free koolaid every now and then so the
taste buds don't get bored.
Work is wonderful. My "new" job is great. I've been there
three months now and I'm in the groove. I feel confident in what
I'm doing, and it's so nice to be working again. I was out of work
for almost ten months and it drove me nuts. But, the blessing of
being out of work was the ability to have the surgery. It's the
best damn thing I've ever done for myself.
I'm starting to accumulate new clothes. I finally had to give
up the old pants. GOD, I put a pair on the other day just to see
the progress and my mother laughed. They were HUGE!! I wore, pre
op, a 44 inch waist in jeans. They were tight, probably should've
been a 46. I now wear a 36 for the waist. I haven't been in that
size since 6th grade or so. It's amazing. I'm heading for a 34
inch waist soon. Shirt size is now a large, and in some things
mediums. It's still hard for me though. I still go straight to the
Omar the Tent Maker section and still say about normal clothes "Oh
god, I'd love to wear that." Erica, my mom, whomever I'm with have
to remind me. "You can wear that, here's your size."
I'm doing a production at the local community theatre right
now. "Don't Dress for Dinner." A hysterical British Sex Farce.
Mistaken identities, slamming doors, lies, lies to cover lies, whos
sleeping with who? It's a blast. I'm playing a role that requires
kissing on stage. That's something I've never done. I was never in
a "romantic" role when I was a big guy. So, this is new to me.
It's been fun. We'll see how my casting changes with the weight
loss. When the lobby pictures were developed the photographer let
us look at them and order prints if we'd like. I almost fell over.
I looked THIN!! I couldn't believe it. My mental image of myself
has NOT caught up with my body. I still think of myself as the fat
guy. I still see the huge stomach that I used to have. I still
think things wont fit. I still think twice about doing certain
things because of the "fat" mentality. I know it will change, and
i'm ready for it. I'll get there, it's just interesting that it can
take a while for your mind to catch up.
Okay...I've droned on for a while. I'll try to read more
often. My show opened this weekend, so I'm not going to be at
rehearsals every night again. So, I'll have time to read the
posts. Though, I did audition for another show tonight. LOL I'm a
glutton for punishment. If I get cast I'll be at the theatre 7 days
a week until October. Rehearsing for "My Way" Monday - Friday and
shows for "Don't Dress..." on the weekends. OY! =) The things I
do for my art!
~~Andy in Bremerton, WA
Surgery March 30, 2004
Surgery Weight: 267
Current Weight: 176
Goal: Doesn't matter, I'm happier than I've ever been!

I don't trip over my perky boobs because they slap against my perky thighs.
And my hernia is still fairly new and doesn't bounce that much yet but soon
the boobs will slap against the hernia AND thighs. W

Yes, and those are the things that we hold onto Wendy when we have
some of these side effects that we don't especially like. You are so
right!! Life is grande compared to how it use to be!!
Dar

Yes, and to think that at times when I have be-moaned that I have
stopped loosing weight and wanted to have had the shorter common
channel...hummm...maybe I don't want that kind of stinkin thinkin and
I need to be remembering how thankful I am to have lost more than the
40% that was originally projected for me. I am very fortunate
indeed! :-)
Dar
05/06/03
334/189/150

I had a lot of problems my first 3-4 months and nothing prescription wise or
Imodium made a difference. I am not exaggerating when I say I probably was
in the bathroom 20-30 times in a day and sometimes to do a lot and sometimes
for just a little. Luckily I had no accidents but I once had to cancel a
doctor appointment to the gastro to discuss the BM problem because I knew I
couldn't be away from a bathroom the 25 minutes it would take to get to him.
Now I go 3-4 times in the morning about 20-30 minutes apart but once I am
done I am done for the day. And it has never been formed and is still as
loose as newly post op. But there is no gas or urgency and isn't a problem
because I know what to expect. It just is. Everyone is so different and
pre ops and new post ops need to know that until they are switched there is
absolutely no way to know which category they will fall into. Your
experience and my experience and anyone else's experience won't be theirs.
But happily it does usually end..for some people almost immediately and for
some longer and for some people like you it doesn't really end but the
rewards are such that you just accept it. Like I have accepted the fact
that unless I can have PS I will never see the other side of 250 but look
what I got in exchange. I also will not see 410 again or die before 2006
which is what we all thought. W

at least, though, you give me hope that it's not a short
common channel problem. maybe a revision isn't the
answer after all.
diane

you and me, darlene, same boat. i wonder if anyone
has solved this.
oh, forgot to mention--i did a course of flagyl, too, which
seems to be many doctors' answer for this problem.
not.
diane

It is a very handy thing to do Sherry. I generally do a pound or so at a
time ( of hamburger) because you know I will do anything not to cook. I
live by the microwave, toaster oven and one skillet when necessary. I think
it is years since I turned on my oven or used more than one burner on the
stove. 1 lb generally lasts me about 3 meals...either lunch or dinner
since I stick with cottage cheese for breakfast. By that time I am ready to
move on for a while to other foods and then maybe a week or so later make up
another batch. But then I only cook for one person so I know exactly how
many meals something will last. You have someone else in the house who eats
probably so planning might be slightly more complicated. <g

Diane and Brittany, I have had this problem since day 2 after surgery
when I messed in the hospital bed. Gosh that was an embarrasing
moment!! I am 16 months out and have a 100cm common channel. I too
have tried everything and every combination of foods but nothing
seems to change. And heaven help me if I eat any kind of bread
because it still causes me such bad gas pains that I will double over
and have foul smelling gas for many hrs afterwards! It just isn't
worth it! DR. M. says that the loose stools are from eating fat but I
know from my experience that it doesn't matter what I eat. I had no
fat in Brazil and I had the problem every day after that first one
and continue to do so. The one thing that has improved is the odor,
thank goodness!! However, I don't know what a formed stool would look
like anymore. I lost 100 lbs my first 5 months and I think it is
because I pooped it all out lol! Thank goodness the weight loss
slowed down after that and I have lost a total of 154 lbs from 334
down to 180 but my weight goes back and forth between that and 189 in
the last couple months or so. I really would like to loose more now
but don't seem to be even though the poops continue. I don't know why
the big scale difference either, maybe I am retaining water some
days. I don't have the answer for any of it but like you I am very
glad I had the surgery. I really have no regrets and would have it
this way again if I had it to do over because my life is so much
better all the way around. I just have to make sure I have access to
a potty everywhere I go lol!!
Dar
5/6/03
334/189/150

not a problem. i've talked about this before.
i get a lot of urgency, and heaven help me if i can't get
to a bathroom quickly.sometimes i have three or four
bouts of diarrhea in the early part of the day; sometimes
it lasts all day long and i eat maybe four immodiums
before it gets under control.
i've actually had one or two MORTIFYING accidents in
public and in the night, and if i even feel there's a tiny
chance of it happening, i wear a safety pad.
i've tried everything from acidophilus to metamucil to a
very low-fat diet. i have a very short common channel--
55 cm--so don't gauge yourself by me. (dr. baltasar in
spain did my ds.)
i can never tell what might bring this condition on. it is
infuriating, as you can imagine.
i'm a year out, and at goal weight--140, down from 292.
i was dying from diabetes--literally.
i'm still losing, albeit very slowly now, maybe a pound
every 10 days. i could go to 130 and be very healthy, as
i still have a bit of a tummy. i'm 58 and 5'5". but i don't
want to go less than that.
i'm considering a revision to increase the length of my
common channel--but it's money i don't have right now,
and might not ever.
has anyone else faced this? and if so, has a revision
cleared up the problem?
or might there be something else i can try for the
diarrhea, something i'm over-looking? i certainly would
like to get past this. thank god i don't work, and can
regulate my day around it.
still, i'm sooo glad i had this life-saving surgery. i don't
regret it and i'd never go back. i'm out of my wheelchair,
off all meds, have a cholesterol of 110, and have a life
and a future now.
diane

Did you say 47 lbs at one month? WAY TO GO! You get my very best Hoppy Dance!
Hugs, Sherry
kstew111@... wrote:I am down now a wopping 47 pounds....
Sherry Head
High 290 1/13/04 Pre-op 260.5 8/28/04 192.0 Total Loss 68.5 Weekly loss/gain
2.0
Diabetes cured
I has met the enemy and he is us! - Pogo

Tuesday Morning is my One month ....
I still can't walk like a great distance or nothing..
bits of pain and also .. getting tired quick.
also this Seroma that stopped drippin' last tuesday
and is now like a quartersized Pimple. (Heal already!!)
I am down now a wopping 47 pounds....
I actually got a bit scared and wrote Dr Marchesini cause I
was worried at the speedy weith loss... he sez "Its okay"
all will balance out...
I will be happy when I can walk more than a short distance.. (100 yds with
out siiting)
and be able to drive 7 or 8 miles with out feeling my
innards are jumbling every bump I hit.
Been sticking to Dr M's diet directions like it was written by God.
Konstantin L Stewart

Hi Diane
I don't want to get too personal but can I ask how often? And, do you have
warning? Is it brought on by certain foods?
Thanks
Brittany
zinnia55@... wrote:
hate to say it, but i still get diarrhea one year out.
i have those kirkland's baby wipes--a good, big size,
from costco in both bathrooms, and always carry some
in my purse in a zippy.
diane

Theresa....often if a person has a hernia the insurance company will pay for
the hospital, the anesthesiologist, the doctor fee for a hernia repair and
the person can self pay the fee to the surgeon for the difference between
the hernia repair and the TT which is a considerable savings. Also, some
insurances who won't pay for a TT will pay for a panni ( belly) removal if
the person has lost 100 lbs. or more. So much depends upon what insurance
carrier they have and if the company who carries it has exclusions or not.
W

Here in AZ they offer different 'packages'. Top 50, Top 100 and Top
150. The plain Discovery is in the base pkg but Discovery Health is
in the Top 100. Since our mainstays are Cartoon Network, Disney,
SCI-FI and WB we just take the Top 50, which includes these. I
don't see Oxygen on our list at all, either.
Candy
06.03.03

If there is anyone who got their insurance company too pay for their
tummy tuck could you tell me how you went about it. Thanks. Teresa

Interesting because I only pay for the lowest tier. I get no HBO or
premiums or anything beyond the basic. I guess in different parts of the
country what is considered low tier must change. Out of curiosity do you
get Oxygen? Every time Oprah says stay tuned for more on Oxygen I wish I
could get it but it isn't offered here. W

How do you put a tag line on? Is it something you have to manually
type in or is there a way to have one automatically placed with your
signature. I know some people put cute sayings with their signature
and I always wonder if they have to type it all the time or if it is
always there.
Robin G
240/240/???
Switching to the other side Oct 26th YIPEEE!!!

my kids sent a birthday card...........they mailed it the week
BEFORE i left to go to brazil...........i was there about 5 weeks,
it got to the hotel about a week AFTER I LEFT.....that was real
SNAIL mail.
joanne

Used to be that everyone had a little 'tagline' after their name
that gave date of surgery and sometimes other info like Starting
Weight/Current Weight/Goal Weight.
I miss those. The weight thing was interesting but what I really
miss is date of surgery. When you are replying to someone it helps
to know if they've recently had surgery or are quite a ways out.
Even when I'm more regular active here I can lose track of time and
think the poster JUST went to Brazil when actually it was months and
months ago.
Just wanted to mention it :-D
Candy
06.03.03

Hi Candy,
Y'know that's a good idea. It is something we all used to do, but we have
become lax about it lately.
Clear Skies,
Dave in Curitiba
Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch by Dr. Marchesini in
Curitiba, Brazil
July 6, 2004
Highest Weight: 450lbs
Surgery Weight: 377lbs
Weight on September 6: 305lbs
Total loss on September 6: -72lbs
_____
From: Candy [mailto:candyiz@...]
Sent: Monday, September 06, 2004 1:36 PM

Wendy...I wonder if you would be able to work out something with them
to pay in advance? Since you know what days you will be in the hotel
(if everything goes normally as it should), maybe they'd allow that?
Probably anything that Dr. M wants...they will do! LOL They do a
lot of business because of him. Might check into that and it could
be paying over the phone by Grandma. What an awesome Grandma!!
Any nibbles on the sale of your car??
Lisa
Oct. 2

I recieved an email from Dr M in responce to my concern s about my Seroma...
(I sent him a digital pic) He said its very common and does not look weird
at all (even though it resemble a quarter sized pimple) ... and just keep him
abreast of whats going on.
So I think I will utilize all your suggestions and put of checking
it with my PCP for a while.
Konstantin

Thanks Wendy. I can get it but it is another 'tier' than the one we
pay for. We aren't really interested in any of the other channels
on that level so don't want to pay for it. I don't remember exact
details but months ago I checked it out. Channel 189 is Discovery
Health on mine too but it gives me that blue box saying I need to
subscribe.
Candy
06.03.03

This problem kind of scares me. I have been having diarrhea NOW
lately and I am PREOP! I just started taking vitamins etc.... I am
taking a Multi for women and extra B12 and folate. I am also trying
extra Biotin to help with possible hair loss and flax seed oil to
improve my skin tone. I think all the extra pills are causing the
diarrhea, or maybe just stress from be anxious about surgery and
having to wait so long for it (I AM NOT PATIENT UGH!!!!) and also
dealing with a husband who is less than supportive!!! I am stressed
to the max and not eating very well because of all this stuff!
I hope not to have chronic diarrhea after surgery because it is hard
to work full time and have to deal with it. I am an RN in Labor and
Delivery and it would be really awkward to have to say "OK!!! Stop
pushing because I have to run to the bathroom NOW!" I sometimes have
to do a C/section and leaving the OR is a BIG NO NO!! So diarrhea is
NOT something that I have time for.
I sure hope it does not last for months and months. Besides, I have
hemeroid and it burns like heck with diarrhea. Thank the Lord for
Tucks pads!!!HEHEHE!!!
Robin
switching Oct 26th

You need to take the credit card with you.
Becca

Dr. Ted Lockwood trained the PS I went to two weeks ago who was the first of
7 plastic surgeons in 3 countries to even say that my problems might be
lymphatic in nature and not just fat cells. Lockwood certainly is one of
the best U.S. plastic surgeons we have at the moment when it comes to body
sculpting as a whole which is what he calls it.
Re Discovery Health...I watch it all the time....several of my soap stars (
the actresses and not the characters) have had their babies on "Baby Story"
and many of their shows are interesting. They are one of the few stations
where they basically tell the truth and do not go for the sensational. PS
is regularly featured as are things like the ER during the first "critical
moments" and so on. Yes..they try to make their shows interesting to the
viewer. It is a business after all. But for the most part their shows are
factual and not biased. It is a good channel to have in your repertoire. W

I have about 3 to 4 bowel movements a day.... all within a few hours ...
Dr Marchesini has told me the reason is Sticking to the diet(he prescribes)
religously. no small additions no extra interpretations.
I'm one day short of one month from my day of surgery and all I can
advise is ... Just eat what he has told you to eat... in limited amounts
(your stomach is so small now) and don't embellish. Embellishment comes later
down the road.
Right now the body is adjusting to the shock of surgery to the system.....
Konstantin
Hi All
I'm really getting annoyed with all the diarrhea! I seem to be
perpetually on the pot. I've been eating pudding, jello, yogurt and
I tried a drop of fish last night. I thought the fish might help
stop me up a little but I think it made things run even more. I'm
curious, when does this end? And, what foods helped slow things
down? Thanks in advance for any replies, this is a not-so-nice topic.
Brittany

Have any of you heard from Paulette Jacobs lately? She is about 18 months post
op now. I remember when she went to Brazil and would love to have an update on
her.
I tried to contact her directly, but got no response. I am not sure if I have
the correct e-mail address.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Sharon C.

Hi All
I'm really getting annoyed with all the diarrhea! I seem to be
perpetually on the pot. I've been eating pudding, jello, yogurt and
I tried a drop of fish last night. I thought the fish might help
stop me up a little but I think it made things run even more. I'm
curious, when does this end? And, what foods helped slow things
down? Thanks in advance for any replies, this is a not-so-nice topic.
Brittany

Perfect! Thanks
Hi Konstantin,
My Aunt went me a card while I was in Brazil and it took about a week to
reach me.
Clear Skies,
Dave in Ohio

Hi Konstantin,
My Aunt went me a card while I was in Brazil and it took about a week to
reach me.
Clear Skies,
Dave in Ohio
_____
From: kstew111@... [mailto:kstew111@...]
Sent: Monday, September 06, 2004 10:26 AM

Anyone got any Idea how long it takes "snail mail" to reach Curitiba?
Konstantin

Hi Mike,
Congratulations! It sounds like you are doing wonderful. How about some
new pictures?
Being only 2 months out, its always so encouraging to hear stories from
people a year or more out who are doing so well.
Clear Skies,
Dave in Ohio
_____
From: Mike_Glinzak [mailto:mglinzak@...]
Sent: Monday, September 06, 2004 12:08 AM

-Margie,
You made my day! I didn't know, and didn't think we could get it in
the states, so I am happier than a pig in mud!! I will ask Dr. M if
we can have it and when.
I hope you are doing well, Margie. Thanks so much for the great tip!!
Hugs,
Bev (in Curitiba)
Surgery 9/9

Lately I've seen quite a few shows on Discovery Health that would be of
interest to this group. I finally saw "Kathy's Story" That followed a
Nashville<?
A program called "A Trash Can of Skin" was about a woman from England who
had lost more than 300 lbs and
travelled to the states, to Kansas, to have Dr. Ted Lockwood, the pioneer of
the circumfrencial lower body lift do her surgery. There's many shows about
PS proceedures, many with very graphic footage of lipo, surgical proceedures
and stages of recovery.
I view these shows as part of the overall research regarding my DS, and
eventual reconstruction.
Of course you have to consider the "slant" of each show and evaluate as it
would apply to you.
Lori K
07/29/04

Candy....I have DISH SATELLITE and I have Discovery Health. On my
television it is Channel 189. I do not know if DISH uses the same numbers
all over the U.S. but check it out. You may have it and not even know it.
W

Hi Margie. I have Dish Network Satellite and although I do have
Discovery, I don't have Discovery HEALTH. Seems like I miss a lot
of the WLS shows because it is not included in my package. You need
to check if you have that particular channel. I didn't realize it
was different from the regular Discovery.
Candy
06.03.03

Wendy...I don't know how much help I can be to you this time. My other
hernia was found in 1997 and repaired in 1998. I don't think I ever had a
scan or ultrasound but I honestly don't remember. I think the internist
simply felt it and sent me to the PS who told me it wasn't urgent and I
could have it repaired whenever. About 6 months later I decided not to wait
any more. It wasn't really painful in the technical sense of the word but
it was very uncomfortable and a blasted nuisance and it was growing bigger.
I was working out with a trainer back then and I ended up wearing a weight
lifter's belt for comfort whenever I exercised. It was such an obvious
bulge I don't think I ever needed testing but I may remember wrong. As I
said I have developed another one this time around. I am going to call the
dr. for an appointment just to reassure myself that there is nothing else
going on and I can wait before doing anything. I don't want to assume that
all hernias are like my last one since every medical situation can be
different. But I am hoping it is like the last one and I can wait. I truly
don't see how this could interfere with a stomach surgery or DS and if
anything else if you were fighting insurance in this country I would see it
as a plus.
Re wiring $$$ and using a credit card I am no help to you since I didn't use
either. Most places do want you to have the card in your hand though that
you are going to use. I don't know if they would allow you to charge to a
card not in your possession. I rather doubt it. You can make a reservation
with one card and pay with another one, however. I know that isn't your
specific question but others have asked that from time to time.
Dr. M gave some info re vitamins but to be truthful I got my vitamin
instructions from this forum. He does not give as complete a list as many
other doctors do and many of us use the list that Dr. Rabkin (Pacific
Laparoscopy) posts or those of other doctors. He emphasizes multi and
calcium and iron if necessary but if I remember correctly I decided to do C
with the iron and D etc. from this list and not from him. Talk to him about
vitamins. I do make sure that he always gets a copy of my lab reports
though. My internist always faxes them to him.
I got my Reals in Curitiba. I didn't need any in Sao Paulo because I
brought $100 in one dollar bills with me and tipped people in dollars.
Everyone seems to like dollars. Since I had people pushing my wheel chair I
often gave $2 or $3 at a time depending on what was involved. As it was I
came home with about $50 of those bills unused. I gave Leandro and others
in the hotel $$$$ too. But I went right to the hospital from the airport
and Durval bought me my Reals the first day. Again, my experience was not
the usual.
I think that covers this list of questions and hopefully other people can
answer the ones I couldn't and give you good advice. Just think.....in a
few months you will be at the other end of the questioning and your advice
will be newer than mine is. W

There r a few things that i have been trying to get info on,
- Will the cat scan or abdominal ultrasound show hernias?
-Also, I had ask about paying the hotel with a credit card online and
my grandma is paying for the hotel stay but i will not have her card
with me, so will i just need the confirmation from paying online and
not have to worry about having her card with me?
-Is there a Website to get reels? Do i get them when i get to Brazil?
-All this wiring money is making me crazee, the faq says that the
hospital with take a credit card for the $4500 fee plus 5% so do i
call the hospital to do this? How will i make this work?
- Does Dr. M give u a list of all the vitamins u should take after
surgery or the pcp. Can u guys give me a list?
Well ty again guys, u all are great!!!
tytytytyty to the other wendy, ur positive thoughts always manage to
keep me uplifed.. I emiled Dr. M and ask about the hernia, if i find
out i have one, im sure i will hear from him soon..
wendy a
9/28/04 (i hope!!)

Hiya oldtimer..... Im glad to hear that u to had a great experience
with the DS, Brazil and DR
wonderful stories like urs..I cant wait to be able to share my exp.
with others and be able to help them on their wl journey...What a
team husband and wife, although im glad my hubby is not overweight it
would be great to have someone that close for support. Well
congradulations to both of u...
huggggssss
wendy a.
9/28/04 (i hope)

Go to the little store right next to the hotel and go to the deli
counter in the rear. Pick up some sliced cheese and GET ONE OF THE
TUBES OF GROUND HAM! I guess it's like Underwood Deviled Ham, but
packaged like liverwurst. It's yummy and since it's ground, you don't
have to worry about upsetting your tummy because you didn't chew enough.
My wife said it was a godsend when she tired of eggs. And if you are
back in the US, the Underwood product might taste pretty good. It
also comes in small cans, so there's not much leftovers and if you
don't like it, it probably makes great cat food!
Mike in Bakersfield

I've seen several posts about husbands being less than supportive
after hearing about DS. While I certainly can't speak for them, I can
give my view from the other side.
I had my DS in July '03 and my wife had hers in Jan '04. She made up
her mind in Dr. M's office during my last post-op visit and seeing how
well my experience went.
I had all the usual fears about my surgery, but it was made worse by
my worry about not being there for my family should the worst happen.
But I had seen my Dad die of heart problems in May '03, just a couple
of weeks after getting my surgery date and knew I needed to do this
for me and my family. And why did I feel so strongly? Because I'm a
control freak, as are so many men. That's the way we were raised by
our good hard working "Greatest Generation" parents. So I had my
surgery, and everything worked out perfectly. As I really knew it
probably would.
But now it was my wife's turn in January. If I hadn't gone first I
would have been terrified. But, KNOWLEDGE IS POWER!. I'd done the
research, read the posts on this board and others, and finally, been
there, done that, and knew what to expect. Except the control freak
still was worred about the surgery. Not in the OR, but the WAITING!!
So I asked Dr. M. and he allowed me to be present in the OR. Being
able to watch during the operation and observe first hand the calm
happy tone on the OR was the best way to soothe my nerves and take
the fear of the unknown out of the situation.
For the men that are unsupportive, are they really just afraid of the
unknown and losing you?? If so, teach them. Get them involved with
your research. And if that doesn't work, let me know, I will be glad
to talk to them of my experience.
Mike in Bakersfield

Sherry....what a good idea for a snack any time of day. I often make bacon
and always have shredded cheese and tortillas in the house because from time
to time I like to make fajitas. But I was looking at my tortillas today and
thinking I should use them up but didn't feel like actually marinading the
meat today for the fajitas. You just gave me an idea for right now as a way
to use up one of two of the tortillas. Thanks. W

It's been a very long time since I've posted and I just spent several
hours reading the last 30-40 digests I've been unable to read because
of being very busy at home/work.
I envy many of you going to Brazil now. I has the opportunity to go
back with my wife for her surgery in January and I really miss the
city and people, especially Dr. M. For those of you pre-ops, you will
NOT believe the special treatment you will receive and the true
compassion you will be accorded from Dr. M., Durval, and the rest of
the hospital staff and the Brazilian people.
I had my surgery 7/23/03 and am now down 90#. It's not as much as I
would have liked, BUT I am not totally done yet and the major reason I
had the surgery has been achieved. My diabetes is totally gone! And
I still can't believe I'm able to write that. I had diabetes for
several years before surgery along with very high cholesterol. I was
a walking heart attack. I still may be but I just got back my 1 year
labs and things are going the right way( I take two Kirkland "Centrum"
vitamins and 2 Citracal per day). My PCP took me off all my remaining
diabetes meds and Lipitor 3 mos ago (cholesterol was 92 and he thought

Hey guys...I just wanted to add my 2cents worth for a suggestion for
breakfast. From my locarbing days...this was a favorite breakfast
that my kids even love love love and often still request for
breakfast before school. And it's ALLL protein! It's just simply a
taco omelet. I make up some taco meat ahead of time and keep it in
the frig for omelets or taco salads. It's just good lean hamburger
meat made with the taco seasoning packages. I just put the egg in
the pan for an omelet and sprinkle a good helping of taco meat on
half of the omelet with a little grated cheese. Then fold it over
when it's done and top with more shredded cheese while hot so it can
melt and add salsa. It's to die for!!
Lisa
Oct. 2

I saw the show and had DH watch it also. He didn't say anything, but
I thought it was very good. I am really encouraged by the Patients
success stories. I can't wait for my turn!!!!
Robin
DS on oct 26th

Thanks Kathy I will try to follow your example ...
but I will wait for Doc M's return email (I sent him a close up igital pic I
took moments b4 sending it) b4 i go to my PCP for it...
Konstantin
Konstantin,
I answered your questions yesterday regarding my seromas, but looks like
they did not go through. Sorry!!!
My seroma was dry for five days when I stopped bandaging it. After three
days of it being dry, I went to see my PCP. She said that it would not burst
open again. It was a little purple and puffy also. She said that is because
it was not completely healed inside. She said this would take a little
while but it was okay. She was right.
I did not use any ointment on it at all. I would take my shower, rinse
shampoo etc. and then clean the incision and seroma with Dial anitbacterial
soap.
This is what Dr.M, my PCP and my daughter (who is an RN) suggested. I
then dry it with a clean wash cloth. I then would stand in front of a fan so
that it was thoroughly dry and bandage it, put A-shirt on and then the binder.
The purple, puffy area went away after about another 2 weeks.
Hope this helps!
Kathy B in KC

In a message dated 9/5/04 7:52:26 PM, jestersmom2003@... writes:
Today while perusing the refrigerator section @ GNC, I found GUARANA!
They have it in sugar free and regular. The SF is a clear glass bottle and it
says Guarana- high caffeine soda. I havent tried sodas , I am 5 1/2 weeks
post op, but I couldnt wait to tell you all!!
Maybe you already knew?
Margie

Hi Kathy,
It can be hard to find things for breakfast. Ive never been a big egg
eater. Ive found bacon works well. 3 strips on a slice of buttered toast
makes a nice meal (or meal and a half). I like country ham and its great
with a bit of applesauce. Some people have recommended peanut butter toast,
or peanut butter on an English muffin. English muffins make me sick though.
Usually I just drink about ½ of a protein shake.
Clear Skies,
Dave in Ohio
_____
From: Kathy [mailto:bdtan@...]
Sent: Sunday, September 05, 2004 7:53 PM

I never thought that I would say this, but I am already getting sick
of eggs!!! I loved eggs preop! I have scrambled them, fried them,
boiled them, made omelets etc.
Any suggestions for breakfast? I broke down this a.m. and had
oatmeal. Gosh, it tasted good! I have also tried some of those low-
carb cereals. Yuk! It's like eating cardboard.
What else can we have?
Kathy in KC

Wendy...I do not believe the hernia will prevent anything. Dr. M may be
able to repair it at the same time to avoid your having 2 surgeries.
Although a hernia repair most likely would be covered by your insurance if
you wanted to do it in this country another time. Discuss this with Dr. M.
I had a surgical hernia after my RNY repaired in 1998 and when Dr. M did my
surgery last the mesh repair did not hinder him at all. In fact, he said
the mesh was in good shape. I thought I had escaped a hernia this time
around but this in the past few weeks I realize I have another one in a
different spot than the original so I now have also joined the hernia crowd
once again. I truly do not think this is bad news..it's just a matter of
how you want to handle it. Talk with Dr. M. Someone said he is out of town
this week. They got it mixed up with Dr. Cavalcanti who is out of town
until the 6th. Dr. M. is there since we know a lot of people are just
arriving in Curitiba this weekend. They just were thinking of Dr. C and not
Dr. M. We talk alphabet soup around here. W

Andrea,
I am wondering if this show is really going to be on. I looked at the menu for
Discovery Health tonite and it does not list this as being the program that will
be one. It is Chicago something or another, but some other procedure under the
information. I am in the central time zone also. I looked under earlier and
later times and nothing about the DS surgery is listed.
Any ideas?
Kathy B in KC

Dr. M. came by earlier and we had a great time hugging, smooching
and getting acquainted. What a lovely man, in every way! I will
see him after my tests tomorrow.
I also met Diane and Brittany... Dr. M. " caught" them eating
broiled fish! Diane said they were BUSTED! Both of them are doing
well, more than I would expect. Or else, they hide it well from me!
Both got to come back to the hotel 2 days after surgery, so that's
very encouraging to me.
I did not have to fly out of Miami and I am so grateful for that, or
I'd be nutty by now. I flew out of Dallas-Ft Worth. It's closer to
Memphis.
Hey! Y'all were right! I love the Guarana!! I wish we had it in the
states. I've guzzled 3 cans today, already. Can we have this stuff
after the surgery? I am hoping the answer is YES! Ha!
I am sorry for the folks stuck in Miami....It should be better soon.
Hugs to everyone,
Bev F. In Curitiba

Hey Bev.. Im so glad u had a safe trip.. I bet u r so happy and I
cant wait to be there too...
WOW.. 2 free days, relax and enjoy urself, I bet Brazil is beautiful.
Tell everyone we said HI and all of u will be in my thoughts and
prayers everyday!!!!Have a wonderful time ur 2 days of sightseeing..
Wendy A
SWITCHSISTER
09/28/04

You made it! It is so nice to hear from you Bev. You need to meet the
other Americans, I am sure they will show you the ropes. I learned a
lot from Kathy in KC.
Becca

Hi Everyone,
Arrived safely this morning around 10:30. It was a long flight, as
y'all know, and I have a hard time sleeping on a plane, anyway..I
took a nap after arriving at the Hotel.
Durval met me at the Airport, and was just a wonderful as I had
imagined! Dr M. is coming by to see me this evening, he said.
Tests tomorrow, then 2 free days, and Surgery on Thursday.
Bridgett, Diane and Betty are on my floor, so I'm sure we'll meet
today and I'm happy to be here!! Doing the BIG 'OLE HAPPY DANCE!!"
Hugs,
Bev F.

Wendy, I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your baby. It is
devastating to go into the hospital expecting to bring home a baby and
you go home with empty arms. My heart goes out to you and your husband
on the loss of your child.
Hernia? I do not think that will be a problem for Dr. M. I know he has
repaired a couple of hernias, it may depend on where the hernia is
located.
Becca

Well....I started talking to some people about my emergency c-section
I had in Feb.. that resulted in the loss of a 3 week old baby...I was
7 months pregnant and sumthing happened while in the hospital and her
heart rate dropped and she did without oxygen for a while, they
brought her back to life and sent her to nicu where she lived until
she was 3 weeks old an my hubby and I had to make the decision to
take her off the venilator cause we were told she was "Brain Dead"
When I was going to check ups after the surgery and asking the whole
time about this bulg in my stomach, they said it was scar tissue from
the surgery and from me getting an infection after the surgery
because I wasnt prepped and neither were they when I went in because
her heart rate had dropped so they were just trying to get her out as
quickly as possible... Anyways what I am getting at is many people
have seen these places on my stomach and think that they r
hernias.... I went on a hernia website and from just reading that
sounds like what i have... So now, I have already purchased passport
and decided to wait until I have these test done thinking that one of
them will show if I have a hernia... Does anyone know, I have the
chest xray and abdominal ultrasound on Tuesday, then I have a cat
scan done on Wednesday, My endoscopsy is not until the 14th so do u
think the cat scan or ultrasound will show if i have one or
not???????????If I do, am I not going to b able to have this surgery
with Dr. M...???? I AM SO UPSET
hernia that he repaired while doing DS that u guys know of? OHHHHH I
am FREAKING OUT!!!! Please someone tell mesum good news....
ps.. U guys in Brazil, Im glad to hear ur doing well and I wish U
guys the best.....
:( :( :(
wendy A
ummmmm 9/28/04 i hope

Hi Diane,
I used a taxi between the two airports. I'm afraid I don't remember
the cost but I'm thinking it was around $8-$10 US. I paid it in
reals that I had before the trip but they would have taken a Visa
card. My memory is not the best so I hope someone else pipes in but
I believe it took around an hour for the trip. It seemed a long
drive. As I had about 3 hours between flights it was not a
problem.
I remember that I went out of the luggage pickup area into an open
area and headed toward the right. There were doors (and windows)
all along the wall on the right side (I would think of it as North
but that may have been perception). Once you exit the doors you
turn left and the taxi area was a small store-front like place on
the left, past the doors/windows. They had someone there who spoke
english well.
It really was not very difficult, or all that much trouble. I
wouldn't have wanted to do it coming back from surgery but it was
fine for the trip out.
Candy
06.03.03

Hi everyone; the Miami airport is still closed and my support person
is still in New York!! Hope everyone living in the path of Frances
is OK. My friend has been on the phones with the airlines; if she
flies into CGH and out of GRU into Curitiba, I have a couple of
questions for anyone who did this---- did you take a shuttle bus or a
taxi; how long was the ride; and how much was the cost? She still
has time to change her reservations for today on a direct flight from
JFK to Sao Paulo, but they are giving her a connecting flight leaving
the same airport at about 11pm. I figure, she can transfer airports
and be here at a more decent hour. Info anyone? Thanks for all your
help
Diane
post op 9/02

I look forward to seeing you next, Saturday, too! I'm excited to
come learn even MORE and meet some of you success stories and
switchwannabe's like myself!!! Like you....I spend WAY too much time
on the computer reading and learning and looking at pictures. I STILL
haven't found ONE REASON why I should not have this surgery! I'm a
go!!!
Thank you and Wendy for the well wishes about my husband. He's just
really worried about me going to Brazil, is the main thing and the
other thing is that he just doesn't want our life and our lifestyle
altered in a bad way in case something was to go wrong and I ended up
sick or injured permanantly. I understand that. I just know that
everything is going to be okay and that our lifestyle IS going to be
altered but in a GRAND way!
Lisa
Oct 2

Konstantin .... I think someone said Dr M is out of town till the 6th so you
may not get a reply for a few days .... good luck.
Lori K

Hi everyone,
Somebody posted this on the DuodenalSwitch.com message board and I
didn't see it mentioned here, so I thought I would pass it on.
"On Sunday Vivek N. Prachand MD from the University of Chicago will
be doing 2 DS surgeries on Discovery Health Channel Sunday at 9p
CST. He is a great doctor. I am sure that if you have question that
a lot can be answered by viewing these operations on what you might
have to expect."
If you look on the Discovery Health Website, the show is listed as
Chicago Medical Episode 6 which airs at 10PM EST tonight. I just
wanted to let everyne know in case they were interested in watching.
Andrea
D/S with Dr. Marchesini in Brazil on 5/5/04
204/144/100

George,
I had a question re: the initial DrM page. Since the files for photos
fill up so fast, are you going to leave that first page open for the
photos? If so, I will post our updated photos to it and if not I will
figure out how to transfer them. Thanks
Deidre
PS I know someone else said this but I use Bank of AMerica for my
wire transfer with the info from the FAQ's with no problem at all.

Carole, so glad Frances has done little harm to Miami. It is 7:30 AM Sunday
morning. I was just thinking about you this morning. I live in Lakeland,
Fla. We are having winds and rain but still are doing very well. Thankfully we
were not bothered by Charley so we are in good standing. I am worried about
the people just 5 and 10 miles from here that did not fare so well with
Charley. So many people have lost so much.
Dawn make sure that you carry a copy of the wire transfer with you to Brazil.
I didn't and of course the hospital had no record of my transfer. Would you
believe Dr. M told them that that was THEIR problem and I had my surgery
anyway. Of course I had my husband send a fax to him and then when I got home I
sent another to the hospital. I am getting excited for you. You will be so
well taken care of that when you get home you not believe that your time went so
fast. Make sure to write in your journal everyday.
Deborah

I took a close up digital of my incision and the area that is dark pink and
puffy and emailed it to Dr. M this Morning...
I know the man is a busy man...... I am now just awaiting his reply.
Konstantin

tessst

<I feel SO much better! Doug and I had a good talk last night (he
prompted it) and he loves me, he is scared for me, and he's WITH me
on this.
Lisa,
So glad to hear hubby's coming around. It is hard on them, I know. I was
completely obsessed with spending all my free time reading everything I
could find about the DS and studying everyone's results and of course the
message boards. My hubby felt left out. I'd try to share some things with
him, but he has never had a weight problem so really couldn't understand
what I was going through. I'm so glad you are able to talk things out. That
is so important.
Looking foward to seeing you next Saturday!
Val in TX
DS 09/30/03
286/160/135-140?

I feel SO much better! Doug and I had a good talk last night (he
prompted it) and he loves me, he is scared for me, and he's WITH me
on this. He doesn't understand it, but he said that he respects my
decision, I'm a smart person and he will trust my judgment on this.
He also said that something better not happen to me or he'd be madder
than hell! SO....I think you've already heard most of that before,
but he means it this time. We loved on each other alot after
that....I've missed him so! I hate when things aren't right between
us. He said that he came to the conculsion that he's NOT going to
divorce me so he might as well get on the wagon with me. That was
the two choices. I feel SO much better. The radio's blasting and
I'm dancing in the kitchen today. We even watched the 48 hours show
on WLS. He heard about it coming on and wanted to watch it. It was
really good...the only negative parts was that stupid Dr. in Houston
that was killing everybody! Other than that...it was pretty
positive. There was another show on WLS this morning on Discovery
Health channel. It's all very fascinating to me. I'm so glad I
found out about the DS though. You ladies in Brazil....Take care of
yourselves and be safe.
Lisa
Oct. 2

Same here Mike...I take my pills by the handful and some are as big as
potassium and some are really tiny like lasix. But I take 10 at once and
then take 6 vitamins at once. 2 handfuls for 16 morning pills and I've
always done that. I think I could by 3rd or 4th week post op since I wanted
to use as little water as possible. I would never have gotten them down one
at a time because I couldn't have held that much liquid. W

Prilosec is now OTC. Protonix cannot be crushed and is prescription which
is what I take. First Zantec and then Prilosec both went OTC and I believe
the only two which are prescription now are Nexium and Protonix. W

Hi Diane and Brittany,
Congrats on being back at the hotel. I'm so glad to hear that you are
healing nicely and having less pain everyday. I really can't recommend much
in the way of food. I kind of lived on bouillion and jello for most of my
time there. I did enjoy the soup that Dr. M. recommends from the Italian
restaurant across the street from the hospital. It is kind of a broth with
some meat-filled pasta in it. It was really good. I did try the mushroom
soup from the hotel restaurant, but it didn't agree with me very well. I
didn't have any trouble with the scrambled eggs on the breakfast buffet, but
some people find it too salty so you can ask them to make you some without
salt. Those sat really well for me, but I could only eat a couple of
spoonfuls.
Sorry your friend is delayed. Hopefully she will make it out soon. Good luck
and have fun while you are there!
Val in TX
DS 09/30/03
286/160/135-140?

Yes, I take omeprazole and it's in capsule form.
Janice
In a message dated 9/4/2004 4:21:57 PM Eastern Standard Time,
gleppla1@... writes:

Hi everyone; we have good news. Both of us passed our leak tests
today and we are back at the hotel. Everyday has gotten better as far
as the pain/discomfort goes. The smells tho--we both thought we
would loose it today at the hospital. So we are back here in our
little hide-a-ways; we went shopping before surgery so Brittany
played cook and made jello and pudding for us. We've also split a
plain yoghurt (ugh, not much taste there), and are watching out
water. I think Brittany will be ordering the chicken soup from room
service. But what else did you all eat?? We are thinking broth, soup
with a little meat/pasta in it, the jello, pudding, juices, etc. My
friend who is coming down to help was routed through Miami; I've
talked with her twice and she will be delayed at least one day. Has
anyone heard from Vicki?? Bev, we have the American boxes in our
rooms 1205 and 1206; come for a visit when you arrive.
Diane and Brittany

I wonder if anyone who has wired money successfully could give names
of banks that are willing to wire with this particular information?
I suspect a list of willing banks would be a useful tool for others
as well.
kate

So Iwent to my bank today to find out what the deal for wiring would
be (I have to wire Tuesday, because Monday is a holiday). They
looked at the wiring info from the Marchesini FAQ and immediately
had problems because there is a "SWIFT" number (which denotes an
int'l wire transfer) but the Bank's address is in Florida. Has anyone
else run into this problem? How did they deal with it? I have until
Tuesday to get this sorted out.
Please Help!
thanks in advance, Kate

Kate, the problem is that most banks don't do a whole lot of wire transfers
so they don't know what the hell the are talking about. The info on the FAQ
is correct... it is an international bank but they have an office in
Miami... but that doesn't mean a thing. Just tell them to fill out the form
with the information you provide them. It is the same info that people have
been using for almost a year now and it is correct.
The fault isn't with the information... it is with the people at your bank.
If they can't figure it out... find another person who knows what they are
doing... or go to another bank.
George in PA <--- doesn't like bank people

Hi George,
Thanks for the offer. I have a 14 day supply of prilosec. I've tried twice
to get one down with water, but no luck so far. I'll try using my protein
drink to wash it down.
One thing I've found since surgery is that I can't handle big bites of food
either. If I take a bite that is too big I'll have to spit it out because I
just can't swallow it. When I eat I have to take small bites and they have
to be chewed very well. Food that can't be chewed to a pulp just doesn't
work for me at all. For example if a piece of meat has too much fat I can't
chew it up enough to get it down.
To some degree I had these problems pre-op, but they are just much worse
now.
Clear Skies,