Hey gang,
I was just wondering if anyody was scheduled to have surgery with
Dr. M in late November or early December? I am going back to Brazil
to have PS with Dr. C and nobody else is on the calendar for that
time. Wanted to see what other Americans might be at the hotel when
I am.
Thanks!
Andrea
D/S with Dr. M on 5/5/04
204/135/100
No nsaids for DS patients. Tylenol only. Don't know about other meds.
Carole
saipanmom <jkrdrmom@...
I know you are supposed to be careful about time released pills.
What other kinds of medications are you supposed to NOT take? Is it
NSAIDS or Ibuprofen (or is that a RNY thing?) How about medications
for Reflux?
I take ibuprofen for various things and am curious what to use
instead IF it is something I need to avoid.
Robin G
10/26/04
great pics...u have a beautiful family...
wendy a
still in curitiba
switched but homesick...
Hi friends,
My sweet Daughter flew down from Seattle to spend the week with me,
just went home yesterday, so it was the 'shot in the arm' I needed,
medicine wise! What an amazing difference from last Sunday to today!
Last Sunday, I had to go to the ER because of a seroma, and awful
drainage...this Sunday, minimal drainage and I am feeling so much
better. I have not had to have an insulin injection for a week, and
this morning, my blood sugar was 106! It's like a miracle, for a
Diabetic.
I am down 25#, and walking better and farther, mostly around the
house, but it's such an improvement.
To those who are struggling right now, in the newness of this
surgery, it DOES get better!! I am a walking testiment to that fact.
Hang in there, try to stay positive and know that in no time at all,
you'll be feeling almost like your old self, or better yet, 'new'
self!
Hugs,
Bev
Post Op 9/9
Ty george for the kind words.....
I am just so homesick and really wished ida never came by
myself....Have u ever known of anyone who got an infection? do u
always feel light headed and dizzy? the soup in the hotel? which
one? not to much salt? dr m said iquid for 15 days then soft solid
foods right?
i was so busy tryng to come up with the funds to be here i missed
lot of stuff...lol
homesick but switched....wendy a
ps durval just came and lisa passed leak test today and will be
coming to hotel tom.. woooohoooo....yeahhhh lisa!!!
Robin Dr. M says binder everyday and every night it really sucks!
they r machine washable ...
wendy switched
still in curitiba
Hi Wendy,
I don't remember if you were on the list when I had my surgery on July 6.
But your post reminded me so much of some of the ones I wrote from Brazil.
The first few nights I was back in the hotel I couldn't sleep at all. There
was no recliner and I couldn't lay down in the bed. I was naseous, and I
was so tired. I don't think I got any sleep at all for about 2 days. If
Susan hadn't been kind enough to let me sleep in her room in the recliner I
don't know what I would have done.
My incision was leaking too. It wasn't bad enough that I had to change the
bandage more than once a day, but by the time I did change the dressing it
was fairly soaked. My incision drained for at least a month. For some
people their incision dries up a few days post-op, other people have to deal
with it for months. YMMV
Take it easy. Try to get as much rest as you can. Remember to take tiny
tiny little sips. Try some coconut water (it was a godsend for me). You
can ask Doc M for something to help you sleep if you need it. You need your
rest so you can get well.
Hang in there. Every day will get better.
Clear Skies,
Dave in Ohio
Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch by Dr. Marchesini in
Curitiba, Brazil
July 6, 2004
Highest Weight: 450lbs (BMI 72.6)
Surgery Weight: 377lbs (BMI 60.8)
Weight on September 6: 305lbs (BMI 49.2)
Total loss on September 6: -72lbs
HEY DAVE.. I know I feel like CRAP!!!!Really weak and I havent
gotten any rest hardly since I have been here.. I changed my
dressing on my incision 4 times yesturday!!!! It is leaking
terrible!!I am so freaked out that sumthing will happen to keep me
from getting on my plane friday to go home.... I am very homesick,
tracy is leaving today and lisa wont be in the hotel until mon or
tues. All i have eaten is jello and babyfood, gatorade, water.. lol
i am hungry but im sticking to the liquid...Durval dont have too
much to do with me.. dunno why...oh nd the tylonol geezzzzzz!!!lol
day to whine and complain
wendy a
switched
9/28/04
Cool! Now I feel like we are being watched by god or something!
Really, I think that is very neat if he really does.
Robin G
WELL its 5 sumthing in the morning and i have been tossing and
turning ALL NIGHT!!!!! i went from bed to couch to Tracys door at
230 in the mornng, luckly he was still awake.....Tracy had sleep in
the bed for the first time in weeks and i ask :"can i please use the
recliner"? well needless to say i got here and it didnt work
either.....I am so tierd!!!!! i was suppose to go back and see lisa
today but i just couldnt make it, after i had went to store to get
water etc etc...
yesturday i was having terrible left shoulder pain and this morning
its al in my left chest....FREAKING ME OUT!!!! everytime i take a
breath in it feels like sumone is stabbing me....Dr M says for me
not to take any of meds right now plus i quit smoking and i know my
body is freakin out....i am 5 days postop and freakin out completly
about everything......I am leaking fom incision very bad!!!!! well
enuff of my complainng huh,,,,,,
switched 9/28
Konstantin.here is how I lost weight from August 5th which was the date
of surgery to the end of the year. You will see long plateaux.weight
gains..big drops.and all sorts of things. But you also will see where I
was in August and at the end of the year. Everyone does it differently and
dont compare yourself to me or anyone. You will lose but it is too soon to
know your pattern. You will see a 23 pound drop between October 22nd and
November 4th. You will also see a 9 lb. gain between September 8th and
September 12th. Dont judge by anyone else. But maybe this pattern will
reassure you. Even with all those regains and plateaux etc. I was 72
pounds down in 5 months which is ¾ of my total because I have fluid problems
which you dont have. W
Weight DOS 376 lbs.
Weight 9/8/03 325
Weight 9/12 03 334
Weight 9/13/03 335
Weight 9/17/03 336
Weight 10/10/03 335
Weight 10/17/03 338.5
Weight 10/22/03 333
Weight 11/4/03 310
Weight 11/15/03 307
Weight 11/20/03 301.5
Weight 11/30/03 300.5
Weight 12/6/03 307
Weight 12/13/03 304
Wendy....welcome to the hotel and so glad you are back there. Yell at Tracy
and tell her she better use wheel chairs in the airport and to stop
overdoing. Tell her it comes from BOTH Wendy's. <g
"What the heck did I do this for?" day. We all do. But it should get
easier from now on but remember that your body has had major surgery and the
next few weeks will be up and down. Roll with the punches cause sometimes
you will feel like you were punched. Tell Lisa we're all proud of her.
Glad you posted and hope each day gets better. W
Maybe you just gained a few pounds of muscle and will start losing
again soon! Don't beat yourself up so badly! You have done so well
so far! Keep up the good work!
Robin G
Who will probably have to hear the same thing several weeks from now
when I go through my first plateau!!!
Oh WOW! I am so happy and excited for all of you (Wendy,Lisa,Tracy),
I can't wait to join you in the loser club! I hope your recovery
goes well and you get home safely!!!! Get some rest and try not to
see the entire country of Brazil in one visit! It isn't going
anywhere! Save some of it for another time (like for PS or
something!)
Good Luck to all of you!!! I am SOOOOOOO Jealous!
Robin G
Switching on 10/26/04!!!! Leaving in 20 days!!!!
Its been almost two weeks since I seem to have stopped dropping weight.... I
am eating like Dr. M directed me... I am walking more every day....
But it looks now like I gained a pound.
10 weeks you say? Er Uh .. You did then start losing again?
right? .... and how long was it till your second plateau?
Konstantin
Konstantin....I went nearly 10 weeks with my first plateau and you had
better not beat my record. I see a break soon....and it'll be a big sudden
drop I bet. Have you measured yourself? I tended to lose inches when I
wasn't losing pounds which at least made me know that something was
happening. W
Well u guys I made it... I havent really had a way to post until
now... I could have used tracys comp whe i got here but i didnt have
much time to do anything it seemed...
well the update;;;;;
Lisa's surgery done friday and she had a terrible day friday, she
felt really bad....but today sat, she was much better up and moving
around.... she let me bring the laptop with me to the hotel cause
she didnt want to tie the phone up all the time at the hospital...
All in all today she was much more herself. I stayed an extra day in
the hospital cause i know how bad it sucked being up there the first
2 days of my surgery alone....
Tracy had a bad episode today, she pushed herself a little to hard
and she fell in the chair in terrible terrible pain...she said it
felt like her insides just ripped out... Dr M came and said she
pulled a muscle and luckly it wasnt sumthing thats was going to need
xrays or delay her leaving tomorrow.... sHE HAS had a hard time but
i think she pushed herself a little harder that she shd have with al
the walking she did today....She seems in better spirits now dr. m
gave her som medication.and now she is resting..
Myself, my suRgery was tuesday at 130 dont rem much for tuesday but
wednesday was the crying day, i miss my family so bad and i was like
what did i just do..... well the more time that went by the better
it got....well i came back to hotel on sat and it felt so good to
not be in the hospital anymore.... so here i am. incision is
leaking pretty bad did anyone else have this 5 days post op ?
we did it
lisa tracy and wendy
Elise....I remember talking to you before when Lori wasn't online. She
should be taking acidophilus so that the antibiotics don't upset her
intestines and bowels even more. Antibiotics tend to kill off all the
bacteria...the good and the bad...so there is an imbalance. Acidophilus can
be found in some supermarkets and drug stores and at health food stores.
Buy for her the ones that say billions of critters and not millions. Also,
I haven't had to use them but supposedly the type that needs refrigeration
works better than the others. Also, yogurt with live culture also is good.
The trick is to get a good balance between the good bacteria you need as the
bad bacteria is being killed off by the antibiotics. If she is having
trouble drinking and needs even more liquids if she is not on an IV don't
forget popsicles are also a help. Tell her I hope she feels better soon.
Sometimes it takes a long time after going off antibiotics to get things
right again in the BM department. W
Konstantin....I went nearly 10 weeks with my first plateau and you had
better not beat my record. I see a break soon....and it'll be a big sudden
drop I bet. Have you measured yourself? I tended to lose inches when I
wasn't losing pounds which at least made me know that something was
happening. W
Hi Diane,
Yep I wear mine 24/7. The only time I take it off is to shower.
Yes you should get 2 binders. You can machine wash them, but they have to
air dry which takes about a day. If you wear them over an undershirt they
don't get very dirty. I don't wear an undershirt with mine so I try to
change to a clean one about once a week.
Clear Skies,
Dave in Ohio
Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch by Dr. Marchesini in
Curitiba, Brazil
July 6, 2004
Highest Weight: 450lbs (BMI 72.6)
Surgery Weight: 377lbs (BMI 60.8)
Weight on September 6: 305lbs (BMI 49.2)
Total loss on September 6: -72lbs
do you wear your binders night and day? if so, do most
people get two? are they fully machine washable?
thanks,
diane
I know you are supposed to be careful about time released pills.
What other kinds of medications are you supposed to NOT take? Is it
NSAIDS or Ibuprofen (or is that a RNY thing?) How about medications
for Reflux?
I take ibuprofen for various things and am curious what to use
instead IF it is something I need to avoid.
Robin G
10/26/04
Flagyl is for the diarrhea, the antibiotics will probably make is
worse though, but the flagyl is to kill the microbs that are causing
the trouble so she needs to keep taking it. She should eat a lot of
yogurt to prevent a yeast infection later on from the meds she is
taking now. Drinking just plain water is good. Gatorade is OK as
long as she likes it. Eat popcicles adds liquid also. Eat soups.
Any fluids will help. Just stay out of the heat and rest when she
can. Dehydration is not something to play around with. Take her temp
every so often. Signs of severe dehydration are: increase in body
temp. increase in pulse, decrease in blood pressure, decrease in
urination, sweat, tears, and saliva. Lips that are chapped, skin
that sags and looks flakey, constipation. Dehydration is probably
why she got the UTI. It can also make kidney stones worse.
Just keep on drinking and see a doc if she notices any severe
symptoms. If it gets bad enough she would need IV fluid hydration
and possibly some electrolytes. Her salt and potassium levels can be
effected. Stay away from salt and eat more foods high in potassium,
but not too high (bananas, Citrus, milk (yogurt).
I hope she feels better soon.
Robin G
10/26/04
Still on this plateau ....
Six and a half weeks ... and Holding...
actually gained a pound and a half.
(sad faced)
Konstantin
Hi Everyone,
I'm Lori's sister (Shorehon)..She's been sick all week and was told
today by her Dr that she is dehydrated, besides having a urinary
infection and some very loose bowels.
Her Dr prescribed Flagle sp? for the loose bowels,Cipro the strong
antibotic for the infection, and she's drinking Gatorade for the
dehydration.
Does anyone have any other advice on what she can do to feel better?
Also, since this Dr isn't all that knowledgable regarding weight loss
surgery patients, should she be taking an antibotic that will GIVE
her loose bowels as one of it's side effects?
Thanks to everyone for any help. My sister asked me to write to the
group, since she knows so many of you have so much experience & a
good insight into what to do Post Op.
Warm Regards,
Elise**
That is a very good idea.
Thanks
Robin
Email your husband. Ask him to email you the pics you like. The pics
will go from his computer to yours.
Good luck building your web page.
Becca
Hi,
Is everyone asleep? Or did everyone get skinny and leave? Am I the
only fat person left? AAAAAA!!!!! I feel so alone!
Anyhow, I have my own webpage!!! I am playing around and learning how
to make a webpage. I will be putting picture on it of my weight loss
journey, and some journal entries etc.....It isn't they way I want it
yet, but I am learning and it will probably change as I change.
I am having a fun time with it though. Now...if only I could figure
out how to get a picture on my computer from the scaner that is
hooked up to my DH's computer! I would ask him for help, but asking
him for anything is like asking a lion for a smile! He gets very
grumpy when I ask for any computer assistance. He does not do well
with those who are not as computer smart as he is.
Anyhow, my website is:
www.jkrdrmom.bravehost.com it is kind of lame looking, but I am
still working on it.
Robin G
10/26/04
have been thinking about you this morning and praying that all has
gone well.
hope for an update from someone soon.....and to see you posting
again in a few days.
take good care of yourself. put your energy into healing.
hugs.
joanne
Just a reminder of the DC support group lunch being held at 1:30pm on Sunday,
Ocotber 3, 2004 at Houstons in Bethesda.
7715 Woodmont Ave., Bethesda, MD 20814-6003
Phone: 301-656-9755
Metro: Bethesda (Red Line)
http://tinyurl.com/5dduf
They don't take reservations, so I couldn't make any . . . They said that the
wait on Sunday around 1:30 is around 10 minutes.
so far I have 7 participants:
Myself
Wendy H
Diedre
Diane
Tia
Mimi
Melanie
If anyone else is planning to attend, please let me know so we will be expecting
you before being seated.
See you all Sunday!
Chelle
Chelle
Thanks for the update!
Renee
Tracy Williams <casacraigtracy@...
I saw Wendy last night. She is doing great!! In fact, so well that
she will probably be back to the hotel this afternoon.
Lisa went shopping yesterday afternoon and felt much better when whe
returned. She went into the hospital last night at 9 and was
scheduled for surgery this morning. I have not heard from her yet.
I will post after I see them both tonight.
Tracy
I saw Wendy last night. She is doing great!! In fact, so well that
she will probably be back to the hotel this afternoon.
Lisa went shopping yesterday afternoon and felt much better when whe
returned. She went into the hospital last night at 9 and was
scheduled for surgery this morning. I have not heard from her yet.
I will post after I see them both tonight.
Tracy
Diffferent with me.... I eat the least at breakfast and more at lunch and
more at dinner...
Konstantin
At breakfast I can eat larger amounts of food. I can not eat so much at
lunch or dinner.
Becca
As DS patients none of us should take Vioxx, Celebrex or even the OTC nsaids. No
aspirin, no motrin, only tylenol. The otheer Dr. M gave me Vioxx while I was in
the hospital in Curitiba and I ended up in the ICU with a bleeding ulcer!
Fortunately, I only had one bleeding episode but it was really scarey.
Carole
Wendy Held <w.wendyh@...
So many people use Vioxx I thought I would post what I just got from WEBMD .
W
So many people here take Vioxx so I thought I would post what I just was
sent from WEBMD because this could affect a lot of people. W
******************************
Merck recalls arthritis drug Vioxx
The makers of the blockbuster arthritis drug Vioxx, taken by millions
for pain and seen as a potential cancer prevention medicine, pulled it
from the market Thursday after a study found it doubled the risk of
heart attacks and strokes.
http://www.azcentral.com/health/news/articles/0930Merck30-ON.html
http://l.azcentral.com/trk/click?ref=zo9600vgt_0-2c4fx36ba4x12776
I am hoping for a big I told you so! Thanks for the encouragment. I
know that mostly I am just nervous and that it is normal.
Robin G
10/26/05 Leaving for Curitiba in 21 days!
I think most people know I've kept a diary for more than 50 years and today
starts a new month. So as I started setting things up for October 1st I
looked to see what I wrote October 1st, 2003. At the time I was about 7
weeks out. I thought people might find it interesting since they know where
I am today to see how things change over time. I should mention that this
was the 4th week of my plateau when I had gotten as low as 325 but then
jumped up. Part of my diary that day said the following. W
Most things are the same. I had 2 pretty good days stomach wise. Diarrhea
morning and
night but fairly comfortable the rest of the time. And then today
something set it off.
I had cereal for breakfast for the first time but had it with Lactaid and
not real milk
so don't know if that was it or not. But since I didn't dare cancel my
appointment with
Dr. Bakey again when the regular gastro meds didn't work I took Imodium
twice.
As a result tonight I am gassy and cramping and gurgling but not so much
diarrhea.
Some but I am bound to pay for putting the cork in me. But I had to.
Anyway, I managed
to get my protein in because of a protein bar and shake but don't think I've
had the 64 oz.
of water. I've tried though. Last Saturday I weighed myself and weighed
338.5 lbs as I said
in my last entry. And was so very discouraged. Monday I broke my promise
to myself and
got on the scale. I weighed 336. So I lost 2.5 pounds. But I weighed 336
on Dr. Krishnan's
scale on September 17th. So I still am not going anywhere. And I don't
know why.
Something is wrong somewhere. And it is making me miserable.
I am almost nine months out and I have my own saying N..O..B..M. That means
Not One Bite More. It does take a while for the brain to catch up to the
instincts. Instinctively I would pile on the food to my plate. Been doing it
for
years, why quit now. But, this does come about with time.
This being said sometimes I eat more than I should and I get not heartburn
but a feeling that there is an alien in my chest trying to get out. But it
happens only once or twice a week or so. So the brain is retraining. I get
incredible fullness chest pains when I eat sweets. Not all sweets, just some.
And
what makes it do it changes from day to day also. Sometimes it seems like a
crap shoot. (pun intended)
However, I would not give up this surgery if I had to put up with it daily.
I surprise myself with how much I can eat if it is stretched out over time. I
can now out eat my hubby, but only over a length of time. He gobbles, I
don't. I am still losing 1 to 2 pounds every other week. I am within 10 pounds
of my goal weight and am trying to slow down. I have upped my calories slowly.
I still do not recognize the person in the mirror when I walk by. That is
strange. I AM looking forward to having PS in June, though. My sister and I
talk and laugh about how sometimes we feel and look fatter when we are sitting
down. Let me see if I can explain this. The skin that was once all filled out
around our legs, is now just hanging there and when we sit down it "flows"
outward and looks like we are filling up much more of the chair than we really
are.
It is early here and I am babbling. Just love to read my Dr. M board every
morning first thing. I still need this board to remind me of where I have been
and where I am going. I love so many of you on this board. You don't know
how much of a difference you have made in my life. We are sorta like AA in the
fact that we always have someone that has been before us and can help us
through the rough spots. I try to put my two cents in when I can but so many
here
have a more eloquent way of putting things. Just know that everyone here is
important to me.
Deborah Powell
90 pounds lighter
1000 pounds happier
My appetite changes from day to day. I think it may be just like
a 'normie'? Some days I eat a lot and other days I have to just do
my protein to get enough in because I have no appetite at all.
One of the most challenging parts of WLS for me was learning
to 'hear' my body. I've gotten it down pretty darn good now at
about 16 months. Even when I'm distracted while eating I rarely
push it too far. But in those first months it was something I
needed to remember to focus on or my body reminded me. Those few
times that I really overdid it I got horrible pains that were just
like what I indentified as bad heartburn pre-op. Hang in there.
You'll get better at it.
Robin.....my wish for you is 6 months from now you will be so happy with the
whole experience that you can tease your husband about his attitude and he
will laugh with you about it as he tells you how happy he is with you and
how proud he is about the progress you have made. I want you on this board
telling some other man or woman about how your husband was so negative and
how things have turned completely around when he sees what a positive
experience it is/was. I honestly believe that is a good possibility and my
fingers are crossed that I can say, "I told you so." I had a wicked
stepmother as my obstacle which is not the same as a spouse but it is
amazing how we all have to fight the same roadblocks. W
Oooooooh, Yeah! Definitely. The amounts that fill me up change from one meal to
the next... and if I wait until I am really hungry to eat I tend to eat more
quickly... apparently right past any "you're full" messsage that may be coming
through!
:)
Nina
kstew111@... wrote:
I go back and forward....
it seems most of the time just two pieces of lunch meat will fill me up
and then other times I can eat a decent potion... ( i am six weeks out today)
.... the odd thing is its several minutes after i eat that I realize I am
full (and then I get major uncomfortable) ...
Does anyone else have this difficulty?
Konstantin
I go back and forward....
it seems most of the time just two pieces of lunch meat will fill me up
and then other times I can eat a decent potion... ( i am six weeks out today)
.... the odd thing is its several minutes after i eat that I realize I am
full (and then I get major uncomfortable) ...
Does anyone else have this difficulty?
Konstantin
Hi Tracy,
I hope you're feeling better. Today is my 3 week Post Op, and I am
doing fine, except for the ongoing drainage. I did have a seroma
break, and felt like a mini river running down my tummy!
My biggest challenge now is still feeling weak, so I do what I can
and go at my own pace. Most things I eat are staying put w/no
problems. It's an ongoing struggle to get all my liquids in, as many
folks can attest to, but we just have to perservere!
Say Hi to Craig!
Bev
Post Op 9/9
Merry,
I remember Megan dropping alot of weight in the beginning and being
so young when she had surgery as well. But she recently posted that
she started gaining a little weight as was concerned about that. I
don't think 142 lbs is at the point of being overly concerned
although 130 lbs is alot of weight in 8.5 months. If it doesn't
stabalize at 12 months or pretty much stop, I would contact Dr. M
and ask for suggestions. You don't want your weight to drop too low.
As long as you are feeling well, getting your water, vitamins,
protein in and your labs are within ranges, you should be fine.
MB
Do they have commuter fares between Miami and Curitiba? Not trying to be
flip but if a surgery can eliminate all this it is sure worth it. My
fingers are crossed for a resolution no matter what form it takes. W
Tracy, Sounds like you are doing good for one week out. Has Durval removed your
stitches yet? I didn't develop my seroma until I got home. Hopefully you won't
develop one, although I can think of a lot worse things that could have happened
and didn't.
Force yourself to rest. You have been though a lot in the last week. I know
that in my mind I felt normal and would try to get out and do stuff...only to be
completely worn out later. I am a little over two months out and still can only
eat a few bites at a time. I am wondering when that will change!!
Have a safe trip home!
Kathy B in KC
7-21-04
Hello all! I am over a week post-op and am sure that I've lost 20#+!
I must eat only liquid or finely pureed food because I over did my
activity level on Tuesday and my stomach and tissues are swollen. It
looks like I would learn from eating too fast that my body is no
longer the body that I have known. Oh well, I can just be miserable
while trying to get aquainted with the new one. I do have GOOD news.:
No seromas! Nice scar! Weight loss!
I went to dinner with my husband night before last and had a bite
(yes, 1 bite and I was full) of his lasagna. I am generally not a
lasagna person but this is wonderful. I think that was the last bite
of anything not liquid.
I am feeling better although the last two days, I have gone back on
IV meds here in the hotel room. We tried to get out this morning and
a 30 minute cab ride did me in. I had meds after that and have slept
the rest of the day. I am rambling.... and a little scattered. Will
post when my head clears.
I am going over to the hospital to visit with Lisa and Wendy now.
Tracy (Frm Texas)
So many people use Vioxx I thought I would post what I just got from WEBMD .
W
So many people here take Vioxx so I thought I would post what I just was
sent from WEBMD because this could affect a lot of people. W
******************************
Merck recalls arthritis drug Vioxx
The makers of the blockbuster arthritis drug Vioxx, taken by millions
for pain and seen as a potential cancer prevention medicine, pulled it
from the market Thursday after a study found it doubled the risk of
heart attacks and strokes.
http://www.azcentral.com/health/news/articles/0930Merck30-ON.html
http://l.azcentral.com/trk/click?ref=zo9600vgt_0-2c4fx36ba4x12776
Hey Melody! So glad to hear from you! Thanks for the words of
encouragement! I'm doing fine this morning. I just had my tests
done and the endoscopy was last so I'm still feeling a little
stoned! Which has been years since I've felt that way and I'm kind
having fun with myself! LOL I will check out that bakery this
afternoon. I still haven't tried the bbq so I'll try to do both of
those today. I don't have to be at the hospital till about 9pm
tonight. I hate that I can't go to the flea market till next
saturday since I'll be in the hospital for this saturday. I'll just
be feeling MUCH better though NEXT Saturday since that will be 8
days post op. It's YOU I'm buying the bracelet for, right? I
havn't forgotten about it. I really feel goofy and lightheaded right
now after the endoscopy and I haven't had anything to eat since last
night, so I better go eat my breakfast. Thanks for writing...I'll
be in touch.
Lisa
This time tomorrow.....I'll be switched!!
Merry <h0t_ph3male@...
hey all,
i'm a bit scared that i'm going to have lost too much weight (oh
bitter irony haha). i had my surgery on 1/13/04, just 8.5 months ago,
and i've lost 130 lbs... leaving me at 142 lbs. this wouldn't be bad
if my weight-loss stopped, but every week i'm still loosing 1-2 lbs.
im 5'6, at a size 8 and i don't think i should loose anymore weight --
has anyone else had/heard of such a concern?
thank you,
merry
*********************************************************
Yes, Merry, a small percentage of DSrs seem to get too thin. I understand a
doctor can help you decide if you need to add some digestive enzymes to your
routine. Or maybe you are one of those who goes a little under desired weight,
but has a 10-20 lb regain B4 stabilizing. Keeping you in my heart with hopes
that all works out well for you. Hugs, Sherry
Sherry Head
High 290 1/13/04 Pre-op 260.5 9/25/04 191.4 Total Loss 69.1 Weekly loss/gain
1.4
Diabetes cured
I has met the enemy and he is us! - Pogo
Good morning Lisa! Wow, your time is so close. I am so excited for
you. Maybe you could do some shopping today and look around the town
with Ana. It would be a good distraction. Also, the little bakery
across the street from the hospital, Provence, was really good...or
so my husband says. He ate something there every day. I went with
him a few times after surgery. The breads are incredible. He ate
sandwiches and pasteries. The husband and children speak English. I
wish I had gone pre-surgery so that I could have enjoyed something.
One thing that I would not recommend eating in Brazil is the pizza.
Ours is WAY better.
I am praying for you. I know that all will go well. You are going
to blink your eyes and surgery will be over and you will be going
home.
Say hi to Tracy and Wendy. Maybe you can go on the train ride before
you come home. We went on it post-op. It was so beautiful. I know
my pictures did not do it justice at all. Bad disposable camera.
Talk to you soon
Melody
hey all,
i'm a bit scared that i'm going to have lost too much weight (oh
bitter irony haha). i had my surgery on 1/13/04, just 8.5 months ago,
and i've lost 130 lbs... leaving me at 142 lbs. this wouldn't be bad
if my weight-loss stopped, but every week i'm still loosing 1-2 lbs.
im 5'6, at a size 8 and i don't think i should loose anymore weight --
has anyone else had/heard of such a concern?
thank you,
merry
Hi Lisa,
I used my laptop in the hospital. As I recall there was enough phone cord
for the computer to reach the bed. Yes they do have those rolling
tables/food trays and that is where I put mine when I was using it from bed.
Clear Skies,
Dave in Ohio
Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch by Dr. Marchesini in
Curitiba, Brazil
July 6, 2004
Highest Weight: 450lbs (BMI 72.6)
Surgery Weight: 377lbs (BMI 60.8)
Weight on September 6: 305lbs (BMI 49.2)
Total loss on September 6: -72lbs
Hi Patrice:
My wife and I brought two laptops into and out of Brazil with no
problems. If you were bringing in 10 laptops there might be
questions, but even if your luggage is inspected for customs, (not
for security) which is rare, the customs inspectors can see that the
computer is for personal use. I know of one PS patient that actually
brought a laptop and sold it while in Curitiba. Of course, customs
never knew it was there in the first place.
In the Hotel we left them in the room when we were not there. We
never had any problem with missing items.
The Hospital allows you to lock the room and Durval can hold the key
for you while you are in Surgery. When I went down to X-ray for my
leak test, I locked the room and took the key with me. All other
times in the hospital, you are either in the room, or walking the
halls.
Mike Adams
Surgery 6/30/2004
Dr Marchesini
SW / CW / GW
450 / 359 / 250-210
"austinmoon24" wrote: Also, would you folks who've been to Brazil
tell me if you had problems taking your computer into Brazil? Is it
safe in the hospital and the hotel? I love my computer and would
hate to lose it. Do you have to sign for importing it and then show
them customs you're taking it home with you again?
Patrice
Dr. M will make his incision on top of your existing scar. He's done 4 surgeries
on me and I have one scar. Had it when I first met him (hysterectomy scar). I
still have only one except for the stoma scars. But I might have to have one
more abdominal surgery to resect my intestines and get rid of the stomas. I will
still have only the one scar.
Carole
austinmoon24 <plieb@...
I'm finding this discussion kind of funny. During all these years
that women have been having babies -- I guarantee that after you've
been in labor for hours and hours, no one ever asks about how the
incision will look. JUST GET THIS BABY BORN is probably what most
say. I know I did - and I had three sections. I have a zipper that
delivered those three boys all those years ago. I guess it won't
matter to me which way Dr. M makes his incision. I just hope the two
scars match each other! I'll have a vertical scar from breast bone
to pubic bone. Hah!
Also, would you folks who've been to Brazil tell me if you had
problems taking your computer into Brazil? Is it safe in the
hospital and the hotel? I love my computer and would hate to lose
it. Do you have to sign for importing it and then show them customs
you're taking it home with you again?
Cheers to all in Curitiba. I'm arranging my date now for mid-
December.
Patrice
I am soooooooo jealous! And nervous at the same time.
YUMMM I love Italian food!
Robin G
10/26/04
I'm finding this discussion kind of funny. During all these years
that women have been having babies -- I guarantee that after you've
been in labor for hours and hours, no one ever asks about how the
incision will look. JUST GET THIS BABY BORN is probably what most
say. I know I did - and I had three sections. I have a zipper that
delivered those three boys all those years ago. I guess it won't
matter to me which way Dr. M makes his incision. I just hope the two
scars match each other! I'll have a vertical scar from breast bone
to pubic bone. Hah!
Also, would you folks who've been to Brazil tell me if you had
problems taking your computer into Brazil? Is it safe in the
hospital and the hotel? I love my computer and would hate to lose
it. Do you have to sign for importing it and then show them customs
you're taking it home with you again?
Cheers to all in Curitiba. I'm arranging my date now for mid-
December.
Patrice
Dr. Baltasar does a horizontal incision. Dr. M (and most others, I believe)
does a vertical incision.
As for the binders, I had a love-hate relationship with mine. It did make me
feel more secure, but it rolled up and sometimes made me feel like I had bruised
ribs!
Nina
saipanmom <jkrdrmom@...
Hi,
good morning Robin,
the 2 docs that i know of that use the vertical incision are Dr B in
Spain and Dr Ungson in Mexico ( trained by dr B i think).
Dr M uses the "standard" horizontal one.
i could not really wear the binder.......like WendyH my hip area is
MUCH larger than my waist and it would not stay down.......had it
altered 3 times then gave up.
i tend to get keloid scars no matter what i do and my tummy already
looked like a road map from other surgeries so........
i had an incisional abscess while still in the hospital that had to
be drained and remained tender while it was healing and the binder
irritated that.
i did get a seroma and it took about 5 to 6 weeks to heal completely
but there is no indication of either of those problems now if you
look at the incision........just my usual keloid scar.
from others i have talked to..........the binder is a good idea if
you can wear it.....and worth "toughing it out" if it is just an
irritant.
i figure Dr M knows what he is doing and why go against his advice
if there is no reason to.
he was aware of the situation re the binder with me and ok'd leaving
it off.......but i had a list of "what not to's" because of being
without it.
hugs.
joanne
Hi Lisa!
I am so excited for you! But I also am sorry you are so homesick.
Maybe it is worse because you had to go alone! Also you kids are so
young. I do remember going to London several years ago with my DH
for a business trip. I did miss my kids something terribly! By the
time that trip was coming to an end, I was chomping at the bit to get
home. I didn't really enjoy the last part of it because my mom
instincts were kicking in big time and I just missed everyone.
Just hold on, it will be over before you know it! Than you will be
home a much different mommy! At least you will be starting a whole
new part of you family life. You will be happier with yourself and
more able to play and take care of your kids. Concentrate on doing
and seeing lots of new things to share with your family. Take lots
of pictures to show your kids about life in another country!
Good luck, I hope everything goes well. Tell Wendy Hi!
Robin G
Switching 10/26/04 leaving ST. Louis in 23 days!!
Lisa,
You've made it through the hardest part - leaving your family. Now just
remember that it is for them that you are doing all of this - so you can be
the best mom/wife possible and they can have you around for much longer than
they might have otherwise. I didn't go alone, so I can't really advise you
on the loneliness. I would say that you are a very friendly and outgoing
person and to get out there and enjoy everything you can. This could be a
once-in-a-lifetime experience for you, so savor it. Is Tracy up to going out
with you to the mall or just walking nearby? I'm sure she and her hubby
would not mind keeping you company. I know Rick and I enjoyed visiting with
the other Americans when we were there.
Hang in there kiddo - it will be so worth it!
Val in TX
DS 09/30/03
286/157/135-140?
Thanks Sherry!
I always look for your posts. You are so upbeat and helpful.
It's also good to know someone else who appreciates the wisdom of
Pogo.
Mike Adams
Surgery 6/30/2004
Dr Marchesini
SW / CW / GW
450 / 359 / 250-210
I made it! What a LOOOOONNNNGGGG day of travel!! I left my house
yesterday at about 3:30 and I just got in my hotel room....almost 24
hours later. Tracy is in the room right next door and I just went
and saw Wendy in the hospital. She had surgery yesterday and is in
very good spirits. Ya'll...I have a major gripe...sort of ..not
really a gripe...I'm just so sad. I hope I'm just homesick (I
know...ALREADY?) and you KNEW I would be! Leaving yesterday was the
hardest thing I've ever had to do in my life! I cried all afternoon
and whailed (sp?) when I had to walk away and leave my husband at
the airport! I've talked to him 3 times since I've been here
already! Cried all 3 times! I am so homesick already that I can't
enjoy anything here. Everything is just, well...not home. Does
anybody understand? Everybody else is so upbeat about it all and I
just want to hurry up and get my butt back home to my family! In
fact, I'll just spit it right out...I'm flat miserable! I want
surgery and I wanna go home. Maybe I just need a nap and I'll feel
better. I am SO not a whiner and I love life and am a very upbeat
happy person....but I have cried most of the last hour. Did anyone
else feel this way? I'm so lonely for my family and english
speaking people and brick houses with green yards and people on the
street to look at me and smile and my dog and my precious babies.
Did anybody else feel SOOOOOO unbelievably lonely the FIRST DAY?
Does it get better??? Gawd I hope so! I go see Dr. M tonight at
6pm. Then tests tomorrow morning...then all day tomorrow free and
all day Friday free. I don't WANT all that free time. And I can
see right now, that going out on the streets by myself is just going
to get the best of me as lonely as I am, already. I'm sorry to be a
baby....but I have to be honest. I'm counting the minutes!! Durval
was a very kind and helpful...Leondro has been way helpful with my
computer. Dr. M on the phone is precious. All is good like you all
have said. Just me personally....so sad!
Lisa
From Curitiba....surgery on Saturday Oct. 2
Are any of you from Canada that had this surgery? I would like some
info on how is cost in canadian funds and if you had your test done
in Canada. what was the wait etc....
please reply
thanks
Chantal
Tia,
I am amazed at how doctors are. Back to what we were talking about a
few days ago, how critical they are of other doctors, especially the
foreign docs, but are willing to deny others service because it
might be a bit too "challenging" for them, meaning they dont want to
chance a law suit. That is the reason they wont take care of you.
Do they not think you need to taken care of even more so now that
your labs are low. We were fortunate to find a GREAT PCP in Baltimore
but you may want to travel to DC 3times a year to find a great one
yourself. Other than that sorry I dont have any other advice for you.
See ya Sunday.
Deidre
I walked to the bathroom about 2 hours after they brought me back to my
room. You will have a balcony, so you can walk outside every day if you
want to. I slept at night, so I stayed up all day. I did not take any
naps after surgery.
My money was in my handbag. You only have to declare money if you are
carrying over $10,000.
My flights between Sao Paulo and Curitiba were on large planes, there
were 3 seats on each side. I believe they were 737's.
Becca
This is outrageous. They will not do follow up care because your labs
are abnormal? Did someone tell your doctor that their job is to take
care of you - the patient? I can not believe the nerve of some doctors.
What does he/she take care of, only *normal* people? If you have a
condition that is too complicated for them, I would understand that, but
to tell you they can not see you because your labs are abnormal? I
would complain to my insurance company and to the owner/manager who
operates the doctor's office, as well as to the doctor.
Becca
I just got my 3 month labs back and my doctor's office called to
tell me that they did not want to do my follow up care bc some of
the labs were abnormal and would I please find someone else.
My mom, who goes to a different practice, got the same speech but
BEFORE her labs came back.
I am trying to see if our GI doctor will do follow up.
Any experiences or suggestions??
Tia
6-22-04
297/238/175
PS On my labs the vitamin K was low,
gastrin was high,
amylase was low and
RDW was high.
Hey Myrtice!
I was up at the potty about 2 hrs after getting back to my room...by
myself! I had surgery on Tuesday, and on Sunday, spent 3 hours at
the flea market..I was tired, but so darn happy!
I never declared ANY money, paid the hotel w/visa/debit...cash
machine about a half a block from the hotel, on the way to doc's
office.
The plane from Sao Paulao was smaller than the Sea to Atl, but the
seats were roomier!
DK
So how long after surgery were you able to get up and walk around,
go outside and stay up for about 4 hours??
How did you take that much money with you? Did you declare how much
money you had on you??
Is the plane from Sao Paulao a small plane?
Any ideas on cheap fares??
That sounds like a great idea to me.
I have some size 26 pants and suits that I just can't wear anymore. and I could
use some 22-24 stuff right now. I'll bring my stuff too. Maybe after lunch
we can do the exchange in the parking lot. I hope it's not raining!
I'll also bring some of the vanilla protien whey stack that I have!
Can't wait to meet you all!
Chelle
deidre_carbone <dantoniolv@...
I had a thought tonight and was wondering if anyone is interested in
doing a clothing exchange. I was going to bring my clothes to the
goodwill but I figured I would offer here since we are getting
together. I have size 22-24 pants and some 24-26 tops. We are wearing
sizes 18-20 right now.
Just let me know. I don't mind bringing the clothes.
Also, Melanie mentioned about maybe sharing some samples of our
protein drinks if anyone hasnt tried certain ones or are sick of what
they have already.
Deidre
Hi Kimberly,
Dr M performed a DS on me 07/29/04.
I was 202 lbs with a BMI of 34.5, family history of SMO, (grandmother was
400 lbs, sisters and mother have been 250+) Diabetes, cardio vascular
disease etc.
I have rapidly progressing degenerative arthritis that has affected my
ability to walk and reached my spine 3 years ago. Losing 70 lbs will greatly
reduce the strain on my joints and perhaps allow me to excercise,
strengthening the muscles around my spine and avoiding surgery.
Tell Dr. M of your concerns for your future and hope that you can avoid the
problems your family has experienced.
He will get back to you and is a very considerate man ...... not just in the
way he cares for patients but that he considers each case on a very
individual basis ....... you are never just a case # with him and you'll
know that the minute you speak with him.
Lori K
07/29/04
down 30 lbs!
-Kimberly,
I had my surgery 9/9 and just before I arrived Dr. M had done surgery
on someone who had a lower BMI. He took into considerations many
factors in her life. SHe was recovering well, looked good, and from
her point of view, she'll never have the same factors her Mother
lived with, including Diabetes and Morbidly obese conditions.
I think he decides on a patient's needs, more than BMI.
Hope this helps
Bev
Post Op 9/9
Hi,
I tipped the usual people who did anything for me....but, I also
tipped Durval when I left. It may not be necessary, but he went the
extra mile for me while I was there, even taking his one day off to
stay with me at the Hospital all day while I had my transfusion. I
felt it was appropriate.
Bev
Post Op
Did you tip people in curitiba, like hotel staff, waiters, taxi
drivers, How about Durval? What is the average percentage to tip
there? Do you tip in Reals or American dollars?
Robin G
10/26/04
Hi, my name is Kimberly and i just emailed Dr M to see if he would
consider doing my DS. I currently am at my lowest weight of 217lbs
and my bmi is just under 36, but i have a family history of obesity,
diabetes, heart problems and arthritis (which i currently suffer
from) other weight issues too, I have been heavy most of my life and
I normally hover around the 245lbs. I just pray that he will accept
me as a patient.
Has anyone on here had the surgery with a lower bmi? I have been
lurking for a while and I am very impressed with all I have read
about Dr M. Has anyone gone alone for this surgery? I would probably
be traveling alone as I don't have anyone that can take off 2 weeks
to travel with me. Also i read about Ana, the taxi driver, having a
dental contact and will
be looking into having some veneers done along with a crown replaced
while there, I hope it is something that can be done.
Thank you all for sharing your stories, i am so impressed.
Kimberly
Hello Deidre,
Yes I did; although they had their surgeries before
mine; while I was sight-seeing down at Iguassu Falls.
Lovely ladies --it was so nice to meet new friends. I still
have Susan's Friendship stone and treasure it!
Hugs -- Your Chicago friend, Gloria
Learning is a Life-Long process which keeps us young
in heart and mind!
It's one of those things that you think won't happen to you until it
does... It's possible.. and it does happen.. even to you... It's
also possible to drive yourself crazy over it.. belive me I know...
Been there done that... I have the T- shirt... :) I'm the former
President.. he he... Just as quickly as you were losing that weight
in the few weeks you will start losing again. It takes time for your
body to readjust to the changes it's going through. It's just a
little harder to hear and understand when YOU are the one going
through it this time. :)
Hugs,
MB
may your journey be blessed.
joanne
Well...here we are! After 5 or 6 weeks or MAJOR roller coaster
emotions where my husband and family are concerned...everybody's
loving me and supporting me and backing me in every sense! I'm all
set except for getting my nails done and my feet done in the morning
before we leave here at around 3:30pm for my flight tomorrow
evening! I tell my kids bye in the morning. (wish me well on
that...that is by far the hardest part!) I've been busy and I'm
ready to go. Yipping???? OH YEAH!!! I'll post when I get to
Curitiba and all hooked up. I hope to see Wendy and Tracy when I get
there!
Hugs....Lisa
Oct. 2
Departure day is HERE!
Yip Yip Yip!!!
Yeah Lisa! : ) Happy switching! ; )
-kelly
Anyone know if Chewable Citrical exists?
And if so where can I get some?
Konstantin
Kelly, I weighed 258 and I was able to survive in one airplane seat. If
you weigh a large amount, let us say 500 lbs, I suggest you get two
seats, just to be more comfortable.
I am one of the few people in the group who did not find the flight to
be miserable.
Becca
Is it every post, or just some? Are you getting the posts as emails? If you
belong to both the Dr. M and the main DS group, people often cross post
questions that are not specific to Dr. M on both groups, so you will get the
same
email from both groups. The reason I question whether this is the case with
you is because I noticed someone did that (cross posted to both groups) just
before you posted.
Janice
10/20/04
In a message dated 9/27/2004 11:10:16 AM Eastern Standard Time,
klautenbach1@... writes:
I am mostly a lurker on this site and am trying to pick up as much
information about going to Brazil for the surgery.
I am 45, a mother of 4, and married to my soul mate. My oldest son
is 23 and in the Marines. My oldest daughter,soon to be 20, is going
to school for culinary arts. My 17 yr old son is bored with school
and we are just trying to get him through. My baby (15 yrs) is my
over acheiver. My husband is a IT business consultant and I am
currently going to school to be a Nuclear Medicine Technologist
while working as a Day Care Director. In the past I have been a
purchasing agent, factory worker, teacher's aide, and bookkeeper.
We live in Wisconsin and I don't claim to be a "cheese head," but I
am a Packer fan. My schooling and family keep me pretty busy so my
hobbies are on hold at this time.
I have been researching WLS surgery for almost 2 years. I've settled
on DS. My schedule is tight. I hope to have surgery during summer
break. Late May would be the best. I am currently trying to get
approved by Aetna, but if that doesn't work, I want Dr. M to do it.
We just currently acquired Aetna insurance. I have heard that they
will no longer be paying for WLS after 1/05, unless your company
purchases a rider to our policy. Aetna has a 3 month minimum method
to go thru to be approved for WLS, so I have been trying to get into
my PCP before Oct 1st to get approved before January 1st (remember
they have a 3 month procedure to go through).
I have been hounding my Dr's office for the last month trying to get
an appt. She is very busy - so I couldn't get in before the day
before Thanksgiving (too late for the insurance). Last week, I had
to do routine blood work for medicines to be renewed. I had them
throw in a blood sugar test too. (Diabetes runs in my family and so
far I haven't succumbed to it). Well I got a call today telling me
to come in on Wednesday to discuss my lab work. Humm ... that
either means I need to change my thyroid meds or I am facing the "D"
word. I consider this a mixed blessing. I don't want diabetes, but
at least what ever the cause - I get to see my PCP before the end of
the month. So, I am bringing in my stack of DS information and the
procedures I need to do to qualify for WLS surgery for Aetna. If I
do have diabetes, at least that can be added to my other co-morbs.
I go in Wednesday and hope we can get the ball rolling.
I love to read all the posts here, even tho' I hardly do it myself.
If I end up going to Brazil, you will be hearing from me more often
as we get closer to May.
Myra
I never had draining. I was one of the lucky ones. I have seen people here
say anything from a week or two to a month or two. So let's hope you are
one of the quickies. Sometimes it gets frustrating cause even when it stops
draining it seems to take forever to heal from the inside out. It is not
cause for concern with proper care but I can imagine if someone wants to
swim or do other activities it can seem forever. Hope you are a quickie. W
Hi Wendy,
Thanks for the comments... Dr. M had told me it was a Suroma..Those
ER Docs were trying to set me up with a Surgeon, to go in and clean
it out! I said I would get hole of the Surgeon who did my surgery
first....yikes, what a night.
It's a clearish liquid, and very runny, so I am just keeping it
clean, bandaged as best and fast as I can. I feel like a girl with
her thumb in the dyke. haha
I hope all is going well with you. I owe so many notes to folks, but
I'll catch up one of these days.
Do you rememeber how long it took for your incision to completely
stop draining
Hugs,
Bev
how many of you tried and were successful to upgrade to business class? I am
still debating on two seats or one and trying to upgrade at the airport. Two
seats is better than one- business class with a fully reclining seat sounds more
comfortable than two seats in coach. regular price on business class is $6600!
upgrade at the airport is $200- IF it's available. Ugh! Decisions, decisions.
-Kelly
Leaving four weeks from yesterday! : )
I am getting two of every post that comes on this board- anyone else?
I love reading them all but doubling up is getting tiresome!
Kon...at three weeks out and for the next three and a half weeks I did not loose
one pound and went up and down. It is very disheartening to say the least. I
can assure you that it will change in time. I think after years of dieting and
reading diet books that your body thinks that it is starving itself and is going
into selfpreservation mode. Just my opinion. Then when it sees that you are
still eating/drinking (even though it is very little) it starts the loosing
again.
BTW, how did your seroma do? Did it stay closed up?
Kathy B in KC
7-21-04
-46
Bev, I had a similar experience. When Durval took my middle stitch out, that
spot leaked a very, very little bit of fluid. He told me that I didn't have to
leave any bandages on, but I did, because of the discharge. Two days after
arriving home I had been sitting at the computer and got up, went upstairs to go
to the restroom and saw that the front of my nightgown and duster were
completely soaked. It was alarming, to say the least. I called my pcp and went
in to see her. She confirmed that it was a seroma and that the take anywhere
from a week to months to heal, since they have to close from the inside out.
Mine closed up completely in one week. She told me and also my RN daughter to
keep it very clean with Dial anitbacterial soap and change the bandages as
needed. She said it wasn't necessary to put any ointment etc. on it. This
worked great for me. I did some research on seromas at the time and found that
it is very common with any abdominal surgery. The fluids were a very light
yellow to white in color. Of course, if it changes colors or odors, you should
see your doctor again.
I hope yours closes quickly, like mine did!
Kathy B in KC
7/21/04
-46
i belong to a number of DS groups and read about this a few days
ago.... have never tried them myself but some folks that have said
they worked great for them for their post op nausea.
it is a bracelet.
they used to be prescription only.
guess a lot of physicians recommend them for pregnant women going
through morning sickness.
now as a non prescription item they are also used frequently for the
nausea caused by motion.
the ones mentioned are called: TravelEze Wristband
don't know where all they are available but one source listed was
Leisurepro.com...
the person that bought one there said they were about 10 dollars....
hugs.
joanne
I know... I have read these peotings for over a year now but I gotta ask
those of you who have gone before me... again....
I am a bit over 5 weeks out.... and I had dramatic weight loss
...so dramatic that I was immediately calling Dr M ..... and then recieving
his reassurances that all was cool.
Suddenly! this last week I have not lost a pound and in fact
..... looks like a I gained a pound (I weigh myself once a week)....
Question: Is this Possible?
Question: Could I have his a "plateau"?
Question: Is it possible I have lost all the weight I'm going to
lose???? (Please say its not so )
Konstantin
There is a lunch planned for Sunday October 3rd at 1:30 pm in Bethesda, MD
for the many patients of Dr. M. who live in the area. Chelle, Tia and Mimi,
Deidre and Diane and I plan on going. I'm not sure if others plan on going
as well. It will be at Houston's Restaurant. Its address is:
7715 Woodmont Ave., Bethesda, MD 20814-6003
Phone: 301-656-9755
Metro: Bethesda (Red Line)
http://tinyurl.com/5dduf
If you would like to go send and email to Chelle by Thursday so she knows
how many reservations to make. Her email address is chelley-chelle@...
W
Those mini geysers happen from time to time. People write about gushers
and it usually is a buildup of fluid under a seroma and then the incision
takes a while to heal from the inside out. It needs to be checked for
infection, obviously, but it actually is not unusual. W
Wow! That sounds so wierd. I am glad you had it checked though. Is
the site red and warm to the touch? Any pain there? It the stuff
coming out clear or yellow or green? Dr. M is probably right. I have
read up on those Seroma's and they happen to a lot of wls patients.
The more fatty tissue there is, the more likely you might get one.
Sound like maybe the ER doc was overzelous! Did they do a culture of
the fluid coming out? Did they do any blood tests? Are you running
a fever or feeling flu like sypmtoms?
Keep the area clean with hydrogen peroxide and sterile water and
clean dressings to cover it. If you notice anything different like
Fever, discolored discharge, redness, pain, bad smell, than you need
to have it checked out. Do not totally discard what the ER doc
said. Just be cautious and careful. You don't want an infected
wound. They take alot of care and time to heal. You don't want it
to spread and have your incision become infected and open.
I hope you heal soon!
Robin G
Switching 10/26/04
Hey Friends,
This is a new one for me. This afternoon, I was taking a nap and had
to cough. ALl of a sudden, what felt like a mini geysererupted from
my incision. Scared me to death! I thought I better check it out, so
went to the ER and the Attending Physician told me I would need to
see a Surgeon tomorrow and have the incision reopened. You can
imagine how I felt. SO, as soon as I got home I sent Dr. M a message
and he told me I do NOT need surgery, or cleaning out, it was a
Seroma that opened at once, and to keep it clean, bandaged, etc.
What if I'd listened to the Young Physician? He had the gall to ask
me why I had this surgery, and I said "I'm Fat!!"
Has this happened to anyone else?
Bev
Post Op
9/9
In the beginning my best friend was those hand held cans of Campbell's
soups...especially the chicken and stars or one of the other very bland
ones. They heated quickly in a microwave and even a reheat later didn't
seem to affect it. I would try to get one down every few of hours bit by
bit and counted it as liquid but also as a way to keep my stomach from being
empty which made it feel worse. I think I lived on that soup and three
bites of scrambled eggs periodically for 4 days at one point with a
spoonful of yogurt here and there. Every person has to experiment what
works best initially cause we all are different but I think that is one of
the biggest shocks. We hear that people had trouble but somehow when it
happens to us we feel all alone in the world. W
A friend of mine who lives in New Mexico, is in her 70's, and has never had
WLS has just been told she needs hyperparathyroid surgery. I know nothing
about this even though people talk about it frequently here. It's one of
these things that when it doesn't concern you, you simply skim and delete
without absorbing the details. Is there anyone out in cyberspace who
wouldn't mind if I gave her their email address so she could speak to people
who have either had the surgery or have a doctor who helped them avoid the
surgery. She is relieved she has a diagnosis as to what is going on but
there seems to be a lack of informed doctors and she needs to go surgeon
shopping. She lives in the boonies and I presume Albuquerque would be her
nearest major city. Thanks much. W
I had my original DS in august 1991 and it was routine. I healed without any
problems. Dr. M made the stomach larger in those days and by reading here, I
discovered that most post menopausal women stopped losing weight after a certain
point. I was one of them. So I went back to Brazil to have my stomach made
smaller. Dr. M told me he noticed that the circulation to my stomach wasn't that
great so he put in several more rows of stitching than he usually does. Instead
of healing correctly, that's when the problems started. I only started eating 3
months ago and I cpuldn't eat the hospital food. All protein, iincluding eggs,
were cooked until they had the consistency of wood and all veggies were cooked
into mush. The only thing I liked was a fruit pudding they made. I was actually
starving. For a two week period I lost a kilo per day. That's 2.2 pounds.
Starvation is what started the intestinal problems. But starvation isn't the
problem now. I have to have 3 cans of either Boost or
Ensure per day on top of what I normally eat. I was told it might take months
to finally heal these damned things. But I want to visit my daughter over the
holidays and I've never been known as the most patient person in the world. I
want it healed - now!
Carole
Lisa Cooper <lcooperett@...
Hey Carole....Are all of those problems with your stomach and
intestines a direct result of the DS? Bless your heart....everytime
I read about your problems...I feel so sad for you. I'll be so happy
(as YOU will) when they get those problems fixed!
Hugs....Lisa
Oct. 2
I LEAVE DAY AFTER TOMORROW!!!!
Hi,
I finally told some coworkers last night. Some of us were sitting
around the Nurses station talking, doing paperwork and watching the
fetal heart monitors. They noticed that I had put in for time off in
Oct for surgery. Of course the questions started. What kind of
surgery? Which Doctor, etc. I origanally said I was having my
Gallbladder removed (it has been giving my trouble lately anyhow!).
That lead to questions about my surgeon and which hospital I was
going to be in. I was scared to death about their possible reponses
(with them being Nurses and also a few Resident Docs were there) I
said, I was having my gallbladder removed along with a few "other
things" that got everyone dying to know what "other things" was. I
finally told everyone the truth. I was so pleased to hear nothing
but good positive things from my coworkers. They were all genuinely
interested in Dr M and the facts of the surgery. A few mentioned
they have known or met someone who had weight lose surgery. I
answered a ton of questions, but got a lot of good feedback. So now
I am even more excited about my trip!!!! It will be interesting to
see what happens when the rest of my department hears about it (it
will go around the gossip mill now!) You can't put a bunch of nurses
and residents together and NOT gossip a bit. The people I work with
are all mostly women, some of the Residents are male, but most of
them are also female. Many of the people I work with are dealing
with health or weight issues. I am soooo excited and happy I told
them. They will all mostly be supportive when I get back. Which
will be a big help!
Well....I have 26 days left until I fly out of St. Louis! I am going
NUTS waiting, but at least I am finding lots of support here and at
work and home. YIPEEEE!!!!!
Robin G
joining the loser's club 10/26/04
Hi Konstantin,
I take a 500mg calcium supplement 4x a day. I take my first one when I get
up, the next one with lunch, the 3rd one with dinner and the last one when I
go to bed.
Clear Skies,
Dave in Ohio
Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch by Dr. Marchesini in
Curitiba, Brazil
July 6, 2004
Highest Weight: 450lbs (BMI 72.6)
Surgery Weight: 377lbs (BMI 60.8)
Weight on September 6: 305lbs (BMI 49.2)
Total loss on September 6: -72lbs
i take 630 mg at a time.....3 times a day.
of calcium citrate.
additionally i get about 1000mg per day in my multi vitamins and
something for "hair (which i have little of these days), skin and
nails".....this is in the form of calcium carbonate.
so all together i am getting nearly 3ooo mg per day...........when
you factor in not absorbing some of it i figure i should be doing
pretty good.
joanne
I am curious how all oof you take your vitamins and calcium.
I seem to be comming up a bit short every day on my calcium ...
I take a calcium 200 mg every two hours except for the part where I
take a multi vitamin and an Iron then I take a calcium two hours b4 and two
hours after the calcium...
How do y'all time it? and come out on top?
Konstantin
hi! welcome to the group...I'm still pre-op but I can answer one of
your questions. Dr. M seems to answer emails on the weekends, Sundays
mostly. This group is great and between them is a wealth of knowledge.
48 and fat......but gonna be
50 and FABLOUS!! healthy too
Darlene in Tx
Hi Jeannie,
I did not have the problems of nausua at all. I am still going
through problems with my incision though. I am just over 4 months
post op and I still have 2 of the 5 holes in my stomach. At the
largest they were about 7-8 cm deep. The last two are 1 and 2 cm.
The packing and incision do not bother me so much, it's just a
routine, but my stomach is raw from the stupid tape. Not much more I
can tell that that hasn't already been said. Anti-biotic cleared up
the infection and packing everyday so that it won't close on the top
and abcess.
Sorry for the late response. I don't check here daily and even now I
I felt the same way it hurt to drink a sip of water. That was all I could get
down. IT DOES get better! I could take one bite of jello at first. I noticed
that hot broth could go down better. Your stomachs are so swollen.
anyways, I hope this helps some,
Natalie
Message: 1
Date: Sat, 25 Sep 2004 16:00:54 -0000
From: "Lisa Cooper" <lcooperett@...
Subject: Tracy needs your prayers...
I just saw where Tracy posted on the duodenalswitch board (or group)
and she's kinda freaked out that no food tastes good or will go
down. She can't eat anything and sometimes can't even swallow as
much as WATER! She mentioned in the post that she didn't want to
post here because we are all so upbeat and I guess she didn't want to
rain on our parade! The subject of her post says HELP!!.... I think
she needs encouraging words from friends. I bet it would help her to
not feel so scared if some of you post ops (that have been her
support and friends for the last few months) could go over there and
give her some words of encouragement or advice and prayers...it would
certainly help her out. Then slap her around a little bit for not
coming HERE to post her problems!! Thanks guys....
Lisa
Oct. 2
Hey Carole....Are all of those problems with your stomach and
intestines a direct result of the DS? Bless your heart....everytime
I read about your problems...I feel so sad for you. I'll be so happy
(as YOU will) when they get those problems fixed!
Hugs....Lisa
Oct. 2
I LEAVE DAY AFTER TOMORROW!!!!