Wendy,
Sending positive thoughts your way for a yes and successful
surgery. =) Phil says Dr. C is an excellent surgeon and wonderful
man. Brazilian Doctors seem to be tops!
~~Andy
Kelly,
As most have already said, welcome home and welcome to the other
side. It's a great journey and it now begins.
I agree that the wheelchair is a must. I live oustide of
Seattle, so my flight path home was Curitiba to Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo
to Dallas, Dallas to Seattle. I have to say that having the
wheelchair was GREAT. I WOULD NOT have been able to walk all that
at all, and I'm a younger person. I'm not saying that to be rude,
but my father scoffed at the wheelchair idea at first. He said to
me "You're 22, you can walk it." When he saw what walking around
the park in Curitiba did to me, he was glad we ordered the
wheelchairs on the way back. When I was in Brazil I lost 20 pounds
before we left. I couldn't see it, but others could. However, by
the time we landed in Dallas I knew I had lost 20 pounds, OUT OF MY
ASS!! My butt was killing me! And even though I knew I needed the
wheelchair to get from one gate to another when I saw the chair
waiting for me at the end of the gate I didn't want to sit down
again. LOL
~~Andy in Bremerton, WA
Surgery March 30, 2004
Surgery Weight: 267
Current Weight: 165
That is cool! Thank you for sharing.
Janie,
I know that you're at the hospital now and you'll only see this
when you get back to the Parthenon. But, know that you're in our
thoughts. You're in the best of care and things will sail by
smoothly. Here's to an uneventful recovery and a great time touring
around Curitiba!
~~Andy in Bremerton, WA
Surgery March 30, 2004
Surgery Weight: 267
Current Weight: 165
Look at it this way....whenever people ask us why we are going to Brazil for
our procedures and they picture 3rd world facilities and money hungry
doctors out to get what they can out of the Americans just remind people
about how many hoops I have had to go through just to hear the word "YES".
These men take their medical oaths seriously and if there is any doubt they
will say no and forgo the dollars we bring. I know many Americans who are
much quicker to take my money. W
I just wanted you to know about a website that my daughter and I use.
It's called 15dollarstore.com. All clothes are $15, that includes
coats, shoes, belts, dresses. etc. There is only one draw back and
that is that they don't allow returns. They also have free shipping
when you buy $100 or more. They are current name brands. We have been
happy with the purchases. I haven't bought anything for myself,
although my daughter bought me a pea jacket (no comment from you Pat)
that was too small. That maybe be my winter coat this year. Keep in
mind that the sizes are junior sizes but even when I was fatter I could
wear a size 23 in shorts.
Just a thought when looking for short term replacement clothes.
Lizanne
I'm still waiting and cross your fingers cause I think I'll have an answer
soon. I'm nervous. Just talked to the vascular surgeon's nurse and
supposedly he wrote a letter to Dr. C and sent the test results to both him
and me on November 3rd. Well, I never got my copy and neither did my PCP.
Just wrote Dr. C to ask if he got his copy. I asked them to send another
copy to me so if I have to go to Kinko's and pay to send it to him I'll pay
whatever they ask. I still don't know what is happening but evidently the
vascular surgeon says I am "moderate risk" which to me means maybe he will
say yes. Moderate doesn't sound that bad.......at least not to me. <g
Thanks for asking. I just want an answer cause January is getting close.
When I talked about it first it was so very far away but it's not so far any
more. W
I will...I will probably try them with my next pay. I am not sure how much they cost but at this point i am willing to try them out. I agree with Tylenol though. It just does not seem to work. I even go the quick release extra strength capsules and they did nothing. (Well, they put me to sleep because I am a real light weight)
Lisa A (AKA: Cheap date)
lizanneflowers <lizanneflowers@...
Lisa A,
I know of nothing. I used to take Motrin. It never took the pain
away, but it did reduce it. Now I can't even take that. Tylenol is
like a sugar pill....nothing at all happens. I have seen the wraps,
and they looked a little expensive. I may try them a little later.
I was on disability for 7 1/2 weeks so right now I am on a budget.
But if you try them before I do, let us know what you think.
Lizanne
It's just a matter of time for me to be in that group too...I hit 40 in a couple of months. It's all down hill from there. I may as well whoop it up while I can!
Lisa A
lizanneflowers <lizanneflowers@...
Lisa....the one who didn't sign this post,
You are not criticising us are you? Haven't we learned our lesson
not to humiliate other group members? You are on suspension!!
Just kidding
Lizanne
so I am ready to go. Now I need to start packing...oh I don't leave
until the 3rd. I have been monitoring the packing list by others, if
you have any other suggestion, please let me know. Thanks
Myrtice
They have all been invited. No, I haven't heard from Cat for a couple days either.
Pat
lizanneflowers <lizanneflowers@...
Pat,
I haven't invited anyone. We still have Mary in KY, Dawn in PA, and
Alex to invite, I think. Oh, I did invite Cat and so have you. I
haven't heard from her in a couple days which is unusual. Have you?
Lizanne
Everyone I have spoken to said that EVENTUALLY it grows back. I am not ready for that....we are headed into winter in New England and I am so cold already. I think a hot wig migh not be a bad idea.
Now, my friend Vinny said I should just purchase a can of that spray on hair and live with it. he said that is what his siser-in-law did. I just don't think so.
Lisa A
lizanneflowers <lizanneflowers@...
Lisa A,
This past week I have started to lose handfuls of hair also. I want
to find someone who is good with scaves and use that rather than a
wig. I keep holding onto that promise that IT WILL GROW BACK and it
will be fuller and curly. I worry that wigs may be too hot or
itchy. Has anyone tried wigs while they were losing their hair?
There probably isn't enough old timers here to answer that. I did
see someone sign up who had the surgery in 2004. I think her name
(or his, excuse me if I didn't notice the spelling, etc) is Terry.
Maybe she will reply.
Lizanne
will do... but... Something must be wrong.. how do groups that are busier than ours manage???
Pat
lizanneflowers <lizanneflowers@...
We keep hitting our "download" limits. Until we get this fixed I would
like everyone to cut some of the message in which they are replying,
off a little. So for example, if you are responding to a message that
5 people have already added to, delete the last couple of messages, yet
make sure it makes sense. That might help for a while.
Lizanne
Well I had to start somewhere. I don't have any new pictures yet. I
hope to get some soon. I know that I see a difference. So I'm anxious
for you all to see it too. I promise I won't wear any short sleeves
shirts in the pictures--LOL!
Sheggy/Shannon
Lisa A,
I know of nothing. I used to take Motrin. It never took the pain
away, but it did reduce it. Now I can't even take that. Tylenol is
like a sugar pill....nothing at all happens. I have seen the wraps,
and they looked a little expensive. I may try them a little later.
I was on disability for 7 1/2 weeks so right now I am on a budget.
But if you try them before I do, let us know what you think.
Lizanne
Lizanne, WOW I'm touched. Yes of course I would love to give my 1st grandchild something from you. Wow I'm totally touched that someone I don't even know would offer to do something like that. Thank you! [INLINE]
Judy
Kaiser-Fremont, CA
265/259/145
HW/CW/GW
Hi,
today is my 2 week post op birthday!
I have discovered that exercising is way different now than before.
It isn't any easier or anything, I just feel more positive about it.
I know that every step I take (while I walk) is another step to being
more healthy and that it will NOT be a failure like so many times
before. I feel so much more freedom now. Like no matter what.. I
can't fail at this now. I know that I won't wake up tomorrow skinny
and totally healthy, but I do know that every day I will feel better
and be healthier than before because of this new tool I have to work
with. It is a "forever" tool not just the "diet of the week". I
know that I still have to work and do my share, but I also know that
if I do I will succeed where I have NEVER had success before. Does
that make ANY sense. I hope I do not have a PollyAnna point of view
right now. I am feeling so hopeful that this is really really the
beginning of the end of my struggle for being a healthy weight.
Anyhow, I walked about 45 minutes today at a very brisk pace. I am
planning on doing some other exercise later today also. I am feeling
a lot more energy today also. I had a protein shake this morning for
breakfast and that seems to be the best for me right now. I feel
like my tummy does not want food so early in the AM. Maybe that will
change later. Right now, I am getting a bit hungry so I will
probably have an Egg or something more solid. I am trying not to
obsess about how many calories I take in and also trying NOT to get
on the scale everyday. I am mostly just focusing on getting in
enough protein and water right now. I hope that is a good way to do
it. I feel like my clothes are a lot loser now, I FEEL thinner
anyhow.
I am still struggling with my depression. Probably just that the
meds are not totally working yet. I feel angry alot! I don't really
know why or at whom I am angry. It is a very tough feeling to
overcome. I feel almost like a pouty little kid sometimes who isn't
getting her way! That is not a very nice feeling to deal with. I
feel kind of selfish or selfabsorbed? Anyhow, I am not really sure
how I feel, but I know I don't always like it. I am working on
working through that. I have an appointment later this afternoon to
see my therapist and hopefully we can get some of it cleared up.
Overall, today I feel alot better than I did a few days ago. My
energy levels are going up finally. My tummy is bothing me less
often and I am feeling more hopeful and optomistic.
I hope everyone here is have a great day. Take care!
Robin G
2 weeks post op
249/228/130??
Hi Kelly,
Welcome home to the USA and to the "other side". I am glad you made
it safely. Yes!!! The wheelchair is a MUST on the way home. It made
a huge difference for me.
Take care of yourself nad Congratulations on the safe journey so far.
Robin
2 weeks post op today
After about 24 hours of traveling, I am finally home! I have never been so
excited to get back to Nebraska in my life- I am not an overly emotional person,
but I was in tears as I walked to meet my hubby! ; )
I feel fantastic. I slept all night in my own bed and it was heavenly.
Thanks to all of you for all your great ideas- I bought two tickets for the
flight and I am so glad I did- it was still miserable (cuz of the time factor)
but it was so nice to be able to stretch out a bit and get my incision in a
comfy position! : ) Also, can I just say that if you're crazy enough to think
that you DON"T need a wheelchair that you are most likely certifiable and should
think about professional counseling! LOL! GET THE WHEELCHAIR!!! : ) It was so
much easier than trying to find things and being exhausted. Great advice! : )
I was most blessed to meet people in Curitiba that I think I will keep in
contact forever. What a blessing they all were to me. I was the last of us to
have surgery in the group so it was nice to have their experiences to go on. : )
Thanks for everything. I am off to do laundry and catch on my "reality" : )
-Kelly
Kelly,
Glad to hear that you are back home safe and sound. I wouldn't be trying to do
too much this soon, especially lifting heavy laundry baskets etc. Let someone
pamper you if possible. Mentally, you will feel like you can take on the world
but when you do, I think you will find that you tire very, very easy.
In time, you WILL be able to take on the world.
Kathy B in KC
7-21-04
276/214/145
Hey hey Janie! Praying for you today and hoping that things go well- I am
finally home! It was so good to get back to my "reality" and see the family.
Tell Walter hi for me and that he better keep us posted! My best thoughts are
with you and I hope that you'll be feeling perky in no time- Here's to Stuart
little! ; )
-Kelly
have you heard anything further re the tests you had done to help Dr
C in his decision on reconstruction surgery??
i am praying you will be Brazil bound in Jan.
blessings.
joanne
We keep hitting our "download" limits. Until we get this fixed I would
like everyone to cut some of the message in which they are replying,
off a little. So for example, if you are responding to a message that
5 people have already added to, delete the last couple of messages, yet
make sure it makes sense. That might help for a while.
Lizanne
Pat,
I haven't invited anyone. We still have Mary in KY, Dawn in PA, and
Alex to invite, I think. Oh, I did invite Cat and so have you. I
haven't heard from her in a couple days which is unusual. Have you?
Lizanne
Lisa,
I just wanted to mention that if you bake spaghetti squash, make sure
that you stab it really deep or when it explodes it makes a big
mess......don't ask how I know this.
Lizanne
Sharon, I just found Al's address.. you wanna add him to the list and send one invite to all three? We need more men in this group! (Not that Bryan isn't wonderful all by himself!)
powrivbc485@...
Pat
Pat 0913 <pat.0913@...
yep... you wanna do the honors this time?
Pat
Sharon Buffo <septsweety@citlink.net
those two we should invite . .are those their addresses?
sharon xoxo
Penny,
It's funny you should say that. My brother had a surprise wedding
set up in Vegas. 2 of his friends and their girlfriends plus him and
his girlfriend had planned a long weekend in Vegas. Actually
everyone but his girlfriend knew there was to be a wedding. He
arranged everything online from clothes to wedding rings to the
marriage license. He emailed us all and we watched the marriage at
the Little White Chapel over the internet. This was his 3rd marriage
and her 2nd, so it was better than going to the courthouse, but not a
whole shebang. Boy were they nervous.
So the point to all that is....Ally you will need to have your
wedding somewhere where we can all watch. How about it?
Lizanne
i watched this. bless stacy halprin's heart--what guts it
took for her to come forward and show the world the
agony she lived every day. this poor woman led a
tortured life.
i'm glad she talked about the emotional and
psychological baggage that comes with first, the
extreme weight (550 lbs.,) and second, losing the
weight. throughout her transition she cried a lot, was
unsure of herself, suffered and struggled and pushed
people away. she talked about the pitfalls and stressed
that wls isn't the quick fix some like to say it is. (though
as ds patients, i know we have it much easier than
others on the same journey who chose the band or rny.)
she also has had numerous reconstructive plastic
surgeries to remove the hanging skin from a 300+ lb.
weight loss. the pictures were extreme--skin from her
abdomen and vagina that reached down below her
knees, huge, empty breasts that hung to below her
hips. her ps surgeon was with her, and she read him a
poem she wrote for him. really touching--and it
illustrates how close a relationship we develop with our
doctors, who literally become our saviors.
she was amazing. and i think, in the end, she now has a
serene inner beauty and just shines. i hope she has a
long and healthy life.
diane
Did anyone see Oprah today? She had Stacy Halprin on who once
weighed 550 lbs. On Sept. 11, 2001 Stacy was living a mile from
Ground Zero. She was so large she could not go downstairs in her
building to get her basic necessities. She finally made the
decision to have gastric bypass surgery. She didn't say which
surgery she had two years ago. But her plastic surgeon was there
and her story is something to behold. She has now lost 300 lbs. She
can stand and walk now. I hope you can get a tape of the story.
There but for the grace of G-d....
Patrice
Nina,
You've been through so much with your nephew and your mom. I hope
this ends in great victory so that he can have a comfortable life
after all he has suffered. And hope your mom is doing well.
Good luck to you
Patrice Lieb
JANIE!
Good things to come. Be safe. Be well. Safe journey through the
surgery and then clear sailing afterwards.
Good luck my friend
Patrice Lieb
For sure we need something soft and cushy that we can LOUNGE on! I guess if we can have cabana boys for the girls, we can have some sort of island girls with big palm leaf fans for the guys... lol. Speak up men (or is it still just man?) What would suit you best??
Pat
sheggy1969 <sheggy1969@...
Don't worry about the mistake with the chicken. I had a bacon
cheeseburger and french fries the night before surgery and everything
went fine. My surgeon doesn't require any type of presurgical prep.
(except you can't eat after midnight the morning of the surgery). I'm
not saying ignore your doctor's orders, just don't beat yourself up
about a little slip.
You're going to do great and be in the Losers Lounge soon--by the way
guys, I agree that stools just don't seem very "loungy". Can we get
some soft fluffy pillows and perhaps some Cabana boys for us ladies--
Hmmm What can we have for the guys?
Sheggy/Shannon
Well I am only hours away from being switched with Dr . Marchesini in Brazil. It
will happen at 1:30 pm. I wanted to thank all you kind people for sharing all
your experiences with me. I have been reading the post for about 3 months
occasionally posting.It is 1234 am here and I am still wide awake. I still need
to pack for the hospital and pack up my other things to leave for save keeping
here in the motel. I have seen Dr Marchesini 4 times since I have been here and
he is certainly every thing you all have said and more. Every one here is Brazil
have gone out of their way to make me and my dh comfortable here. We have
enjoyed the 3 days we have been here so far. and plan to do lots more after
surgery. Ana is also great just like you said. I am a little nervous and just
rambling, so I will try to pack now. God Bless you all and thanks again. Janie
M.
Robin,
Trader Joe's has some great things for us post ops. I buy many high
protein and low carb items from them. Let me name a few.
Roasted and salted Edamames (soy beans) taste like roasted peas
Nuts..almonds, pumpkin seeds in shells, etc.
ground nuts(meal) for baking
Low carb tortila chips with high protein
soy nuts roasted, and chocolate covered
trail mixes
soy pretzels(they taste like regular pretzels and I used them as a
cracker substitute)
Low carb noodle bowls
I keep finding great things at Trader Joe's.
Look around some more I am sure you will find something that you like.
Deidre
Don't worry about the mistake with the chicken. I had a bacon
cheeseburger and french fries the night before surgery and everything
went fine. My surgeon doesn't require any type of presurgical prep.
(except you can't eat after midnight the morning of the surgery). I'm
not saying ignore your doctor's orders, just don't beat yourself up
about a little slip.
You're going to do great and be in the Losers Lounge soon--by the way
guys, I agree that stools just don't seem very "loungy". Can we get
some soft fluffy pillows and perhaps some Cabana boys for us ladies--
Hmmm What can we have for the guys?
Sheggy/Shannon
It's not that I'm not allowed. I've tried various fruits and veggies
and most of them make me ill. I'm trying to introduce those foods
slowly. It's funny because I can eat a taco and feel fine and then
if I eat one with lettuce, I get sick.
I think you also have to remember that when you eat salad you're
basically filling your pouch with non protein foods, unless you add a
lot of protein items to your salad. I know that I could eat 2
grilled chicken strips but if I had them on a salad I would probably
only be able to eat one, therefore missing out on an opportunity to
get my much needed protein in.
I think eventually I'll be able to eat them, just not ready yet. I
think you just have to listen to your own body. Try something and if
it doesn't feel right or doesn't work, then stop and try it later on.
Sheggy/Shannon
Lisa A,
This past week I have started to lose handfuls of hair also. I want
to find someone who is good with scaves and use that rather than a
wig. I keep holding onto that promise that IT WILL GROW BACK and it
will be fuller and curly. I worry that wigs may be too hot or
itchy. Has anyone tried wigs while they were losing their hair?
There probably isn't enough old timers here to answer that. I did
see someone sign up who had the surgery in 2004. I think her name
(or his, excuse me if I didn't notice the spelling, etc) is Terry.
Maybe she will reply.
Lizanne
Sheggy,
Did you say you were going to post new pics? I looked in your folder
and just saw the old photos. I would love to see anything new since
you are now 4 months out, right?
Lizanne
LOL i guess Rebekah was already a member? Hey Rebekah!!!! nice seeing you again . .wow sounds like your doing fantastic now . .keep up the good work!!
sharon xoxo
Oh OUCH!! I had a kidney stone last year. They do hurt something
terrible! Are they planing on using the laser to break it up?
Anyhow, I hope you get rid of the thing ASAP.
Robin G
Lisa W,
No she never contacted me at all. Ally has been able to send her a
private email and is waiting for a reply. I don't think that will
happen. Robyn has the right to do as she pleases, I was just shocked
They aren't in a folder... they were either sent to my personal email (which I lost when I had to re-format my hard drive), or she gave me a print out... I forget which. Anyway, I emailed her and asked her for them again. I got them from someone in my live support group. Hmm... maybe they are in the files THERE! I'll go look....
Pat
lizanneflowers <lizanneflowers@...
Pat,
You are usually so precise. What is happening to you? First you
can't find the message from Robyn and now you can't find the facial
exercises. All those folders don't seem to help, now do they?
Lizanne
Patrice,
Thanks for following this and keeping us all updated!
Nina
austinmoon24 <plieb@...
Subject: Medicare Advisory Panel Concludes Weight Loss Surgery Safe
and Effective for Morbidly Obese Patients
Andy,
The Rabkins produce a calendar of their success stories. I think a Marchesini
calendar is definitely in order!!
I'd create 'em, print 'em and mail 'em out... but someone else would have to
pick each months' "pin-up!"
But, you are right... a face to face reunion/cruise is a great idea!!
Nina
(And congratulations on the Century Club!!)
mrandybaker <mrandybaker@...
Nina,
Your story is inspiring! Congratulations on your success, I'm
so very happy for you. I know the excitement of hitting the century
club. I just recently go there myself. Congratulations on that as
well. Hopefully one day many of us Dr. Marchesini patients can get
together in one place, meet face to face, and share all the
stories.
~~Andy in Bremerton, WA
Surgery March 30, 2004
Surgery Weight: 267
Current Weight: 165
Pat,
You are usually so precise. What is happening to you? First you
can't find the message from Robyn and now you can't find the facial
exercises. All those folders don't seem to help, now do they?
Lizanne
Robin right now food is neither friend nor enemy. It's just sustenance. Little
by little you will regain the ability to eat lots of different foods, but some
favorites might be gone forever. I used to adore anything guava. Have since I
was a litle kid. I loved getting to Florida, our annual vacation. We always took
the train from Chicago. The first morning we were in Florida they served guava
jelly in the dining room. When I moved here I fell in love with another amazing
guava treat. Puff pastries with guava paste in them. I thought I would love it
when I recovered from surgery and could only eat just a little bit. Well, the
only thing guava that tastes remotely good now is guava yogurt. Guava jelly and
pastries sound awful. So while you will regain the ability to eat it may not
always be pre-surgery favorites. I've noticed in your various e-mails that you
worry a lot. All I can say is please don't. Everything is happening right on
schedule and the things happening to you now have
happened to all of us. I promise it gets better but your digestive tract has
just taken a major beating. I think you'd feel lots better if you just tried to
chill a bit more.
Carole
Robin <jkrdrmom@...
Hi,
Day 13 post op today. I woke up after sleeping pretty well last
night. After everyone left I decided to go get my hair cut! Feels
much better now!
They opened a new store next to my beauty shop. Named "Trader Joes"
I know it is a chain and is probably in lots of places. It was "OK",
but I didn't really see anything to exciting. I did buy some protein
bars to try. I got several different brands and flavors. By the
time my haircut was done, of course I was STARVING and I only had my
bottle of water.
I saw so many good yummy things at the store: cookies, candy,
breads, pastries etc..... NOW I can't really eat any of it yet! I
saw a package of cookies and thought, Those peanutbutter cookies look
soooo good. I really wanted one for about 5 seconds. I than decided
that if I bought the whole package (about 10 cookies) I would waste
it becuase I could only eat a couple of bits. None of my kids would
like that kind. At this point eating even 1 normal size cookie would
be a challenge for me. So, I passed on the cookies. Now I don't
even miss it!
I also saw some chocolate candy that looked really good (home made
peanut butter cups). I did buy a small package of those. I "could"
eat one (they are very small) and give the rest to the kids later.
But now that I am home, I don't want any! WHAT's happening to
ME!!!!
My best friend "food" is being a very fickle friend right now.
NOTHING sounds good to eat, so I can't really turn to it when I am
feeling overwhelmed, or tired or afraid, or lonely or excited or any
one of the other MILLION emotions that I used to go to my old best
friend for. Food used to be so loyal and was always there and always
tasted the same and never dissapointed me. NOW where do I go for
that same treatment! I am in a state of confusion! I have so many
feelings to share and no friend to really share them with now. When
I am mad ad the kids or DH or anyone else. I can't turn to food for
comfort. I never really gave me any advise, but at least it was
always available!
Now, I am actually AFRAID of my old best friend. I never know what
kind of effect it will have on my new tummy! Sometimes, it actually
makes my tummy HURT! So far, it really has not been there to comfort
me at all since surgery. I believe my old best friend it trying to
tell me something. I think it is trying to find more friendly
pastures than mine!
I am not really sure what to do now! I need to eat to be healthy. So
far, my friendship with food is very strained and uncomfortable. I
am told that things will improve and I do believe that. I also know
that I don't want to have the same relationship with food as I had
before. I hope to just be able to get along with food and nothing
more! We can still be friendly I hope, but NOT BEST FRIENDS anymore.
I can't picture myself having any other friend though! It is like
losing a diseased arm and trying to pick some other kind of tool to
use instead of it. The arm was so comfortable and easy. The new
tool will probably do just as well, but it is a hard decision to
make.
Well...Today has been an interesting day. I am feel more energy, and
less nausea. I am still tired easily though.
I hope everyone here is having a fabulous day!
Robin G
249/228/130??
day 13 post op
Hi Wendy. That's what everybody says about kidney stones. Since it is too big to
be passed, what they usually do is give you a special treatment tbat actually
pulverizes the stone inside your body. Then it is passed very easilly. I forget
the pulverization technique. It could be ultrasound but I'm not sure But the
worst is over for you. Good luck tomorrow.
Carole
wendy <sexydragon420@...
Hiya.... Remember my PAIN????? Well I couldnt take it.. I went to the
emergency room at 8am and I just got home and its 400pm.... I was in
so much pain when i got there but they got me in pretty quick and
gave me an IV. Whatever medicine was in that worked right away, thank
god..... Well I first went for an xray and that didnt show anything
and then a cat scan to find a HUGE kidney stone... They said it was
to big to pass and I have an appointment in the morning to see what
they r going to do.... All I know is the pain is awful, I would
rather be in labor for 3 days then to have that sharp pain for 30
minutes.....They gave me sum pain pills and I am going to work at 500
and hope the pain med holds me over til in the morning..... Wish me
luck and no more pain.....
wendy andrews
Nina,
Your story is inspiring! Congratulations on your success, I'm
so very happy for you. I know the excitement of hitting the century
club. I just recently go there myself. Congratulations on that as
well. Hopefully one day many of us Dr. Marchesini patients can get
together in one place, meet face to face, and share all the
stories.
~~Andy in Bremerton, WA
Surgery March 30, 2004
Surgery Weight: 267
Current Weight: 165
Hiya.... Remember my PAIN????? Well I couldnt take it.. I went to the
emergency room at 8am and I just got home and its 400pm.... I was in
so much pain when i got there but they got me in pretty quick and
gave me an IV. Whatever medicine was in that worked right away, thank
god..... Well I first went for an xray and that didnt show anything
and then a cat scan to find a HUGE kidney stone... They said it was
to big to pass and I have an appointment in the morning to see what
they r going to do.... All I know is the pain is awful, I would
rather be in labor for 3 days then to have that sharp pain for 30
minutes.....They gave me sum pain pills and I am going to work at 500
and hope the pain med holds me over til in the morning..... Wish me
luck and no more pain.....
wendy andrews
Hey everyone! This is just a simple reminder to everyone in the San
Francisco bay area that we're having another DS-Luncheon on Sunday,
November 14th at 4:00pm! I believe its going to be at the Hungry
Hunter of Fremont, once again. So, hope to see you there!!!
Merry
Hi guys just wanted to give everyone and shout out and also the skinny
on what is going on with me (no pun intended). You guys have been
posting like crazy lately and I haven't been able to keep up. So I
thought I would just touch on several subjects in one email.
So update on me.....When I went to my one month check up my iron was
like 30 (50 is normal) So they put me on one iron pill a day. I went
back at my three month and it had went down to 20. So talk of iron
infusions was near. I upped it to 2 iron pills a day. I went back
on Tuesday to my PCP and had him check my iron to see if it had
gotten any better from last month. I am glad to say that it was at
38. So he is going to let me hold off on the infusions since it is
getting better and just keep taking the two a day.
Before surgery I took three shots of insulin a day plus 5 oral meds
just to control my diabetes. I have been diabetic for over 12 years.
Since I was a teenager. At only a month out of surgery I was off all
meds. So the A1C I did last week was a three month of being on no
medications so I was really anticipating seeing it. IT WAS ONLY 5.7.
I was so excited. To be free of insulin and meds is awesome. So I
am doing good working part time waiting tables for Christmas money and
exercise. I definitely have more energy with my iron being higher.
Only about 20 pounds to go to goal weight.
My vitamin routine..... I use Building Blocks vitamins. They are made
specifically for bariatric patients. There website is
http://www.bbvitamins.com/ They have liquids, chew ables and capsules,
so you can pick what you like. Right now I am doing chew ables but
next time I order I am going to capsules. With there routine you take
two calcium and a multivitamin in the am, an iron at lunch, and two
calcium and a multi at pm. I am taking a feosal carbonyl iron at
lunch because we absorb those better than regular iron at lunch with
my chew able since my iron is low.
Hair Loss.....I have had some for sure. It comes out by the handfuls.
But I use a product by EC Mode. It is called EC Mode Optimum Hair
Growth System Kit. I bought it from my local salon. My hair stylist
recommend it. Cancer patients use it. You wash your hair with the
shampoo and conditioner and then it come with a vial of product that
you add fresh vitamins to. You use that to put on your scalp. So I
don't know how much it keeps your hair from falling out but it
defiantly helps it grow back faster. I can already see all the little
hairs on my scalp were it is coming back fast.
Protein shakes....Well I am still faithful to the Body Fortress at
Walmart. I use calorie countdown milk. I add all kinds of things to
it. I bought an auction on ebay for 180 protein shake recipes. When I
get a chance I'll post some of the recipes. I eat soy nuts and
edammame for protein plus protein bars. I am very strict on my
protein. 90 grams a day for sure not matter what. The protein shakes
are like medicine to me.....It don't taste good always but I got to
get it down to get better.
So thats it in a nutshell....I tried to hit some topics that everyone
has been talking about....I'll try to post more. My daughters
birthday is Dec 16 so between that and the holidays it gets busy. I
just hope I can keep up.
Take care Guys
Rebekah
6/26/07
Dr Burry Evansville, IN
280/186/165
www.myspace.com/ramonastucka
PS Bryan....I work at Hacienda on Green River if your in the
neighborhood stop by and ask for my section. They let you order the
kids meal with not questions asked. You can get a shredded chicken
taco and not eat the shell with refried beans. Lots of protein....LOL
Hi,
Day 13 post op today. I woke up after sleeping pretty well last
night. After everyone left I decided to go get my hair cut! Feels
much better now!
They opened a new store next to my beauty shop. Named "Trader Joes"
I know it is a chain and is probably in lots of places. It was "OK",
but I didn't really see anything to exciting. I did buy some protein
bars to try. I got several different brands and flavors. By the
time my haircut was done, of course I was STARVING and I only had my
bottle of water.
I saw so many good yummy things at the store: cookies, candy,
breads, pastries etc..... NOW I can't really eat any of it yet! I
saw a package of cookies and thought, Those peanutbutter cookies look
soooo good. I really wanted one for about 5 seconds. I than decided
that if I bought the whole package (about 10 cookies) I would waste
it becuase I could only eat a couple of bits. None of my kids would
like that kind. At this point eating even 1 normal size cookie would
be a challenge for me. So, I passed on the cookies. Now I don't
even miss it!
I also saw some chocolate candy that looked really good (home made
peanut butter cups). I did buy a small package of those. I "could"
eat one (they are very small) and give the rest to the kids later.
But now that I am home, I don't want any! WHAT's happening to
ME!!!!
My best friend "food" is being a very fickle friend right now.
NOTHING sounds good to eat, so I can't really turn to it when I am
feeling overwhelmed, or tired or afraid, or lonely or excited or any
one of the other MILLION emotions that I used to go to my old best
friend for. Food used to be so loyal and was always there and always
tasted the same and never dissapointed me. NOW where do I go for
that same treatment! I am in a state of confusion! I have so many
feelings to share and no friend to really share them with now. When
I am mad ad the kids or DH or anyone else. I can't turn to food for
comfort. I never really gave me any advise, but at least it was
always available!
Now, I am actually AFRAID of my old best friend. I never know what
kind of effect it will have on my new tummy! Sometimes, it actually
makes my tummy HURT! So far, it really has not been there to comfort
me at all since surgery. I believe my old best friend it trying to
tell me something. I think it is trying to find more friendly
pastures than mine!
I am not really sure what to do now! I need to eat to be healthy. So
far, my friendship with food is very strained and uncomfortable. I
am told that things will improve and I do believe that. I also know
that I don't want to have the same relationship with food as I had
before. I hope to just be able to get along with food and nothing
more! We can still be friendly I hope, but NOT BEST FRIENDS anymore.
I can't picture myself having any other friend though! It is like
losing a diseased arm and trying to pick some other kind of tool to
use instead of it. The arm was so comfortable and easy. The new
tool will probably do just as well, but it is a hard decision to
make.
Well...Today has been an interesting day. I am feel more energy, and
less nausea. I am still tired easily though.
I hope everyone here is having a fabulous day!
Robin G
249/228/130??
day 13 post op
I am so impressed! I hope someday to do HALF as well as you have.
Congratulations!!!!
Robin g
oh cool. .thanks Pat :)
sharon xoxo
Lisa A,
I have the same problem. My boobs will never sneak out my armholes.
They hardly reach my armholes. I will sacrifice my boobies for the
ability to walk.
Lizanne
ok... I found her addy and just invited her. :)
Pat
Sharon Buffo <septsweety@...
i just attached it to this email . .Rebekah. . but i dont know her email .. sharon xoxo
Ally,
Did you list your wedding date in our calendar to remind us? As if
you won't be telling us all about it as time gets nearer.
Lizannr
Beautiful!
Carole
pwrshopmom <klautenbach1@...
Spending a little time surfing the net this morning before packing
to go home tomorrow. I found this quote and thought of you,
Wendy. : )
Anyway, hope it encourages or inspires someone here- I know it did
me.
"Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgment that
some
thing else is more important than fear. The brave may not live
forever,
but the cautious do not live at all. From now on you'll be traveling
the road between who you think you are and who you can be. The key
is
to allow yourself to make the journey."
From the Movie- Princess Diaries
Have a great day! ; )
-kelly
(9 days out and going home tomorrow!)
In a message dated 11/8/2004 3:50:57 AM Pacific Standard Time,
sexydragon420@... writes:
.. Has anyone else had
this pain.....?
Wendy
I am almost 3 months post op and I just started having a horrible pain in my
left side. It isn't there all the time, just sometimes when I move a
certain way or stretch, but the pain is accute. I don't know if this is what
you
are talking about but I have wondered too what is going on.
Jeannie
i just attached it to this email . .Rebekah. . but i dont know her email .. sharon xoxo
Hi Lisa. I'm an unjury fan. I love their chocolate flavor and you can control
the taste by the amount of milk you use. I use 8 oz. The vanilla is best used
with Crystal Light. It produces a lovely, light creamsicle type drink. I have
one of each every day. They also have an unflavored which you can mix with
pudding and jello. Don't add it to anyth8ing hot or the protein is denatured. So
you add it to jello (vanilla is also wonderful in jello) after you add the cold
water. It was designed for cancer patients who have terrible nausea problems.
You can find it at www.unjury.com. They will be happy to send you samples.
Carole
Lisa Cooper <lcooperett@...
Hey ya'll! I've been reading about 1/3 of your posts....would LIKE
to read more, but just can't unless I neglect about 1/2 of my family
or the house. I'm feeling SOOOO much better! I can do laundry
without getting out of breath already! Doing laundry around here is
quite a job! There's 3 laundry hampers on 3 different corners of the
house and I used to have to rest just after gathering up one laundry
hamper and carrying it back to the laundry room! I've got the twins
that are 12 1/2 months old and almost walking and WAY more busy than
ever before.....and I'm keeping up just fine and dandy!
Anyway......I have a question. I'm not even NEARLY getting my
proteins in! I'm doing like 25 a day and that's about all I can eat!
I went to Vitalady.com and looked around and it's pretty overwhelming
at all the protein stuff they have! What is the best BRAND of
protein shake? I don't particularly like protein shakes so I need a
good one so that I will religiously drink one or two a day. I know
everybody has their preference in flavor. I'm not a chocolate junky
so I'd prefer a chocolate one that's not too chocolatey if you know
what I mean. I'm gonna shrivel up to flab and bones if I don't do
something about the protein. I can't seem to get a grip on taking
the vitamins either, but I'm gonna give it a good effort starting
right now! I get my calcium pill in in the morning and it's so hard
to get down that I don't get the multi or the iron in later on! It's
the WEIRDEST thing that before surgery, I could literally take a
HANDFUL of pills and open up my throat and swallow them all down in
one swallow! Now, I can hardly swallow 1/4 of a multi vitamin! I
feel like it gets stuck in my throat and I have to close my eyes and
concentrate real hard to just swallow it without gagging! What's up
with THAT?? Any advice you can give on the vitamin subject would be
great, too! Also, if you order vitamins from vitalady or WHEREVER
that you feel are the best and disolve best or are the best
quality...please share and save me a lot of wasted money on stuff
that's not good quality or won't disolve properly. Thanks guys! I
know this subject has been discussed before so I'm sorry for asking
you to repeat yourselves.
Also, Robin....I love reading your posts! You are SO thorough in
your explanations and descriptions and you say exactly what I feel or
have felt in the last few weeks! Your frequent posts and great
wording is so wonderful for the pre ops to read....AND us post ops!
Keep it up!
Lisa
Switched 10/01
-35 lbs.
Hi Robin,
The chances are good that you are really hungry. Look at the tiny amounts of
food you're eating. Eat when you get hungry. The tuna meal is more food than
you've been eating. Smaller meals can be considered snacks. If you're anything
like me, that's how you'll eat for the rest of your life. It gets very
satisfying.
Carole
Robin <jkrdrmom@...
Hi,
I had tuna today! I opened a small can of tuna in water (3oz size)
and mixed in a tiny bit of mayo. I was amazed when I read on the can
that 3oz of tuna has 18g of protein. WOW!! I was able to eat a good
portion of it with a little cut up dill pickle. I really liked the
pickle part! Odd, pickles have never really been that wonderful
before! I put it on 1 slice of carb smart bread which is only 45 cal
and has 3g protein. Bread is made by saralee and very good for a
diet/low carb bread. It was a very nice little meal and very filling
too.
I am having a very hard time finding that "full" feeling. I am
either starving with tummy grumbling and real discomfort, or I am
nauseated. I only notice that if I keep eating I will eventually
feel nauseated. Somewhere between 2-4 ounces seems to be my limit,
but that depends on the type of food and how fast I eat it. I still
do not know what "full" feels like. I knew what it felt like before
surgery!
I think my tummy is getting it's signals all mixed up with knowing
when it is hungry, full, nauseated, etc... I know that I HATE the
hungry/grumbling feeling I get when I don't eat for a while. I
notice that sometimes I get that feeling when I am just starting to
eat also so I don't really know if it is hunger or not. Could just
be extra stomach acids running wild. I am taking my nexium and also
some pepcid. Neither seem to help much. I notice I gag very easily
now! I have only actually thrown up 2-3 times since surgery and I
KNOW I don't like that! I am trying to avoid that feeling whenever
possible.
Anyhow, today I had a nice walk outside. The weather was very nice.
I felt good afterward. I have not been too terribly tired today like
before. I am not so out of breath and weak feeling either. I did
take a short nap from 6-7pm tonight, but that was the only time I was
really tired. I have not needed any pain meds since I have been
home. I changed my incision and only used a very little tape and
than my binder to keep the dressing in place. That helps with the
itching some, but not alot yet. I am just trying to ignore it
mostly. I still get a funny taste in my mouth sometimes. I think it
is from the protein drinks I am sipping. I am drinking more water,
but still not enough yet. I don't know when I will EVER be able to
eat enough protein, but from what I read here, that will improve
also. I am back up to my full strength of antidepressants now and
hoping they kick in all the way soon. I also found a smaller
multivitamin to take that is not quite so huge. So far so good with
that!
Yikes!! I DO go on don't I???? I think I basically had a better day
today than yesterday!
Robin G
249/228/130??
ending day 12 post op!
huh? ok... I'm lost.. the topic is Shakes - Penny, the conversation turned to benepro...
and you found Rebekah looking at pics of what, where??
Pat
Sharon Buffo <septsweety@...
I found another person. . .Rebekah. . looking at pics over there
sharon xoox
It's not just California anymore... that smoke haze is making it's way across other states too!
Pat
lizanneflowers <lizanneflowers@...
Penny,
I was just reading this about your fires. Thought you might be
interested.
Satellite pictures showed thick smoke hanging over the entire region,
affecting health of people all over Southern California.
Residents staying in areas with bad air were advised to avoid
exerting themselves. Children and people with heart and respiratory
conditions were urged to stay indoors with windows and doors closed
and air conditioners on.
"In the immediate aftermath of a fire, we're all at risk of the fine
particulate matter we can inhale," said Julia Robinson Shimizu, a
spokeswoman for Breathe L.A. "In general it's good to limit outdoor
strenuous activity at least seven days after the fires have ended."
The University of California San Diego Medical Center saw an increase
in patients coming in with breathing troubles they believe were
related to air pollution, spokeswoman Jackie Carr said.
Mayor Jerry Sanders said the NFL's San Diego Chargers would play
Sunday's game scheduled at Qualcomm, which can seat more than 70,000
people.
But Ross Porter, a spokesman for the American Lung Association of
California, urged fans to use caution when deciding whether to
attend. "Sometimes it's better to sit quietly at home and watch it on
TV," he said.
I guess it's gong to depend on WHERE you lose those pounds from.
I'm down 46 pounds as of this morning but not enough of it has come
from my tummy and chest to enable me to go down even a single size
yet (although my pants are loose, the size down is just too snug)!
Lora
Wendy, you must tell your doctor about this. You need to be concerned about your
iron levels.
Carole
wendy <sexydragon420@...
Hi u guys.....
Sometimes I wonder whether or not I even had the DS done.....lol
Cause I find myself being able to eat ANYTHING and it not bother me..
WOOOOHOOO!!! I know Im not getting all the protein in but Im still
working on that... My biggest problem is HABIT, I use to preop go all
day without eating and eat a big meal at night but like today I went
all day and didnt eat and was starving when I sat down, but the big
downfall to that was I couldnt hardly eat ANYTHING!!! like maybe 2
oz. and I was stuffed...My energy level wasnt as high so I will do my
best not to do that anymore... Lisa I think I will try the slimfast
in the mornings cause I work nights and get in really late so getting
up with the lil one in the mornings this may make it easier cause I
know I need to eat but Im so LAZY at 6am!
One thing that I am really concerned about is I am still on my period
and Im like almost 6 weeks out and still have my period..... U know
sum women are going nuts after the 5th day...lol, so u can imagine, I
am on EDGE!!!!I had a doctors appointment this past wednesday but I
was so happy with my weight loss and we talked alot about my leakage
that I forgot to even metion this to her... Should I be concerned????
Will it go away?????lol I also talked to her about the vitamin
issure along with Dr. M and they both still say 1 multi vitamin a day
and 2 500mg calicum a day and they actually decided to take me off
the iron pill cause she gave me a prenatal vitamin that has lots of
everything in it so now Im down to 3 vitamins a day... YEAH!!
I actually am under 300, WOOOOHOOOOO YIPPPPEEEE!!!!!!!!!! I was so
happy... I have lost 45 lbs and 29 inches!!! I went from 337 lbs to
292... Yipppeeee I am 7 lbs away from where I was when I got pregnant
with my 4 yr old... I measure myself once a week but only weigh every
3 weeks..It seems that Im more excited about the inces gone than the
lbs, go figure...
Well I have yapped enuff.... Ohhh and Robin, I love reading ur post,
keep em coming, U LOOSER!!!!!!
Wendy andrews
9/28/04 DS
-45 lbs and 29 inches
Deb, I am so pleased for you! You do rock. Doing the Hoppy Dance in your
honor. Hugs, Sherry
Nightsewer@... wrote:OH and the drum roll please is because I now am 101
pounds down from my
original weight. I was going to celebrate the moment that I found out I
was
100 pounds down but I have been having so much fun, running around and riding
all the roller coasters with my Brazilian Boys that I didn't even know when
that happened. Life is just good at this point.
Sherry Head
High 290 1/13/04 Pre-op 260.5 11/06/04 184.2 Total Loss 76.3 Weekly loss 0.6
- Pathetic!
Diabetes cured
I has met the enemy and he is us! - Pogo
I have been so busy this past week. My wonderful godson and his father from
Sao Paulo Brazil have been here.
We did, an all night Ybor City GauvaWeen party on Saturday night (think of
New Orleans Halloween Party). Came in a 6 AM.
Sunday we went to the International Car Show, 6 hours.
Monday we did Islands of Adventure at Universal Studios, 9 hours.
Tuesday we did Busch Gardens, 9 hours.
Wednesday we did 12 hours touring Tampa Florida.
Thursday they actually worked a convention in Orlando. (the nerve of
their boss, think that they should work!!!)
Friday we did MGM Disney 10 hours.
Saturday we drove 10 hours going to and from the Tallahassee football
game. (20 hours)
Now what I am getting around to telling you is that I am still up and MOVING.
Last year I had to have a scooter after just 4 hours at one park. They went
and played the rest of the week while I rested.
I have never felt so good after doing so much in my whole life. OMG my life
is just wonderful now. I can breath, I can walk, hell I can RUN. It is just
amazing.
OH and the drum roll please is because I now am 101 pounds down from my
original weight. I was going to celebrate the moment that I found out I
was
100 pounds down but I have been having so much fun, running around and riding
all the roller coasters with my Brazilian Boys that I didn't even know when
that happened. Life is just good at this point.
Robin and Lisa wait, you will reach this point before you know it. I am only
a little over 9 months out. I look so different but in my head I am still a
big size but my energy size is a size 1 !!!!! My body size is a size 12. Wow
is life good or what. THANK YOU DR. MARCHESINI.
Deborah Powell
101 pounds lighter
10000000000000 times happier.
I'm scared...and nervous...but excited too. I am on liquids...I was
supposed to be on liquids beginning yesterday. I ate a piece of
chicken :( yesterday...I was getting a hunger headache and did not
have protein shakes or anything with me. I did an enema though and
have not put food to my lips since. I have these "Squeeze Freezes"
from Kroger, some protein shakes and a bunch of juices and water. I
am so glad that you guys are here. Ally is my Angel.
Shenise
328/323.5/150
HW/CW/GW
Wendy,
I sure don't know what it is. Maybe a huge gas bubble? Anyhow, keep
in touch! I hope it clears up quickly on it's own. Let us know what
happens. Take care!
Robin
I'll post a picture of him sometime soon.
Oh, and by the way...I updated the calendar with everyone who sent me a special date. We should start getting reminders for birthdays, surgiversarys and other days that members would like to commemorate when those days roll around.
Hope you're all having a nice weekend.
~Ally~
Lap RNY 7/12/07
251/237/???/130 I am on a hiatus from my scale addiction for 1 month beginning 10/24/07
HW/SW/CW/GW
Patrice,
Are you in the Baltmore area? If so there are about 6 or 7 of in the
MD/VA/DC area and we all went to lunch last month and are hoping to
get another get together/support date going soon. Let us know and we
can include you also in the next one.
:) Deidre
Hi u guys........... Its 6 am and I am in very bad pain!!!!! My left
side is killing me!!!! I havent ate anything different in the last
couple of days and its a constant pain!!!! I have to be at work at
500 and its only my 2nd week so Im freaking out about that! I woke up
and took some tums and a previcid and drank a very lil bit of choc
milk and that made me feel very sick, it almost came back up but then
finally passed... I have already emailed Dr. M.. Has anyone else had
this pain.....?
wendy andrews
9/28/04
-45 lbs and 29 inches
Welcome aboard Shenise!!! Glad you joined our group!!
sharon xoxo
Penny,
I was just reading this about your fires. Thought you might be
interested.
Satellite pictures showed thick smoke hanging over the entire region,
affecting health of people all over Southern California.
Residents staying in areas with bad air were advised to avoid
exerting themselves. Children and people with heart and respiratory
conditions were urged to stay indoors with windows and doors closed
and air conditioners on.
"In the immediate aftermath of a fire, we're all at risk of the fine
particulate matter we can inhale," said Julia Robinson Shimizu, a
spokeswoman for Breathe L.A. "In general it's good to limit outdoor
strenuous activity at least seven days after the fires have ended."
The University of California San Diego Medical Center saw an increase
in patients coming in with breathing troubles they believe were
related to air pollution, spokeswoman Jackie Carr said.
Mayor Jerry Sanders said the NFL's San Diego Chargers would play
Sunday's game scheduled at Qualcomm, which can seat more than 70,000
people.
But Ross Porter, a spokesman for the American Lung Association of
California, urged fans to use caution when deciding whether to
attend. "Sometimes it's better to sit quietly at home and watch it on
TV," he said.
Just remember Robin if things to "come up" soon after eating it is very
different from throwing up digested foods. It is easy and does not give you
a lousy aftertaste in your mouth and often you feel instantly better. In
the very early weeks before I knew how to recognize when I was full I often
allowed something to come up. It was easy and made me feel better instantly
and had no aftertaste. It is often not something to avoid but instead is
something that can make you feel better. Do not avoid it. It won't make
you bulimic but will give you instant relief. I never need to do it now but
it was a very comfortable way of handling things in the beginning until I
learned to recognize being full before the fact rather than after it. W
Just like an alarm clock! My tummy woke me up hungry! I ate some
chicken soup. I was very thirsty and drank some juice too fast and
now have a very uncomfortable "lump" in my throat. It is starting to
go away now after about 15 minutes. It was very close there for a
while. I thought for sure it was all going to come back up. I hope
I don't forget and do that again. It is such a habit to just grab a
cold drink and drink it down fast.
Well...hopefully I will get back to sleep soon. I am amazingly
sleepy.
Robin G
up for my 3am feeding!
I sent a request to join but had never refreshed my groups so it never
showed up. This is Shenise...Thanks for the invite, Ally.
Shenise
October 29, 2007
Open RNY
328/323.5/150
HW/CW/GW
Hi u guys.....
Sometimes I wonder whether or not I even had the DS done.....lol
Cause I find myself being able to eat ANYTHING and it not bother me..
WOOOOHOOO!!! I know Im not getting all the protein in but Im still
working on that... My biggest problem is HABIT, I use to preop go all
day without eating and eat a big meal at night but like today I went
all day and didnt eat and was starving when I sat down, but the big
downfall to that was I couldnt hardly eat ANYTHING!!! like maybe 2
oz. and I was stuffed...My energy level wasnt as high so I will do my
best not to do that anymore... Lisa I think I will try the slimfast
in the mornings cause I work nights and get in really late so getting
up with the lil one in the mornings this may make it easier cause I
know I need to eat but Im so LAZY at 6am!
One thing that I am really concerned about is I am still on my period
and Im like almost 6 weeks out and still have my period..... U know
sum women are going nuts after the 5th day...lol, so u can imagine, I
am on EDGE!!!!I had a doctors appointment this past wednesday but I
was so happy with my weight loss and we talked alot about my leakage
that I forgot to even metion this to her... Should I be concerned????
Will it go away?????lol I also talked to her about the vitamin
issure along with Dr. M and they both still say 1 multi vitamin a day
and 2 500mg calicum a day and they actually decided to take me off
the iron pill cause she gave me a prenatal vitamin that has lots of
everything in it so now Im down to 3 vitamins a day... YEAH!!
I actually am under 300, WOOOOHOOOOO YIPPPPEEEE!!!!!!!!!! I was so
happy... I have lost 45 lbs and 29 inches!!! I went from 337 lbs to
292... Yipppeeee I am 7 lbs away from where I was when I got pregnant
with my 4 yr old... I measure myself once a week but only weigh every
3 weeks..It seems that Im more excited about the inces gone than the
lbs, go figure...
Well I have yapped enuff.... Ohhh and Robin, I love reading ur post,
keep em coming, U LOOSER!!!!!!
Wendy andrews
9/28/04 DS
-45 lbs and 29 inches
Great idea about the Hi/Lo, Lisa. I love that kind of game with children.
Builds family traditions. Hugs, Sherry
Lisa Cooper <lcooperett@...
OH...one more thing I wanted to share. Every day at dinner time, we
play "hi/low". I just say HI/LOW and everyone shares their BEST
thing that happened to them that day and the low is the WORST part of
their day. You can learn SO much about their entire day by knowing
those two things and it opens up discussion for the entire dinner.
They love the "game" and since the younger ones have been doing it
since they were big enough to talk....they just expect it and can't
wait till it's their turn to share something fun that happened to
them that day. And of course, knowing the lowest part of your kids
days teaches you things that you ordinarily never would have known.
Sherry Head
High 290 1/13/04 Pre-op 260.5 11/06/04 184.2 Total Loss 76.3 Weekly loss 0.6
- Pathetic!
Diabetes cured
I has met the enemy and he is us! - Pogo
I found another person. . .Rebekah. . looking at pics over there
sharon xoox
The information from the meeting in Baltimore is fascinating. The
summary is 39 pages and worth reading. The DS info is well-stated
since Dr. Robert Rabkin, among many others, testified. Go to
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/mcd/viewmcac.asp?id=137 and click on "Other
material 3" for the summary.
Patrice Lieb
37 days until surgery
Hi,
I had tuna today! I opened a small can of tuna in water (3oz size)
and mixed in a tiny bit of mayo. I was amazed when I read on the can
that 3oz of tuna has 18g of protein. WOW!! I was able to eat a good
portion of it with a little cut up dill pickle. I really liked the
pickle part! Odd, pickles have never really been that wonderful
before! I put it on 1 slice of carb smart bread which is only 45 cal
and has 3g protein. Bread is made by saralee and very good for a
diet/low carb bread. It was a very nice little meal and very filling
too.
I am having a very hard time finding that "full" feeling. I am
either starving with tummy grumbling and real discomfort, or I am
nauseated. I only notice that if I keep eating I will eventually
feel nauseated. Somewhere between 2-4 ounces seems to be my limit,
but that depends on the type of food and how fast I eat it. I still
do not know what "full" feels like. I knew what it felt like before
surgery!
I think my tummy is getting it's signals all mixed up with knowing
when it is hungry, full, nauseated, etc... I know that I HATE the
hungry/grumbling feeling I get when I don't eat for a while. I
notice that sometimes I get that feeling when I am just starting to
eat also so I don't really know if it is hunger or not. Could just
be extra stomach acids running wild. I am taking my nexium and also
some pepcid. Neither seem to help much. I notice I gag very easily
now! I have only actually thrown up 2-3 times since surgery and I
KNOW I don't like that! I am trying to avoid that feeling whenever
possible.
Anyhow, today I had a nice walk outside. The weather was very nice.
I felt good afterward. I have not been too terribly tired today like
before. I am not so out of breath and weak feeling either. I did
take a short nap from 6-7pm tonight, but that was the only time I was
really tired. I have not needed any pain meds since I have been
home. I changed my incision and only used a very little tape and
than my binder to keep the dressing in place. That helps with the
itching some, but not alot yet. I am just trying to ignore it
mostly. I still get a funny taste in my mouth sometimes. I think it
is from the protein drinks I am sipping. I am drinking more water,
but still not enough yet. I don't know when I will EVER be able to
eat enough protein, but from what I read here, that will improve
also. I am back up to my full strength of antidepressants now and
hoping they kick in all the way soon. I also found a smaller
multivitamin to take that is not quite so huge. So far so good with
that!
Yikes!! I DO go on don't I???? I think I basically had a better day
today than yesterday!
Robin G
249/228/130??
ending day 12 post op!
Are you sure this only makes 1 serving? It seems like a lot of
ingredients for one serving. Also, what kind of oatmeal? Cooked,
quick oats, explain please.
Thanks,
Sheggy/Shannon
Robin,
You might want to try silk tape, if regular tape is hard on your
skin. I had the same problem, and once I started using silk tape, I
never had anymore problems.
I can relate to the itchy skin too. It's a never ending effort to
make sure we are comfortable! It's always something. <G
I still have problems with food, and nausea, but I am slowly getting
there, I think. The weight loss is wonderful, and I am feeling better
already, with joint pain, etc...So, I am hanging in, and I hope you
are too!
Hugs,
Bev ~
Switched 9/9 coming up on my 2nd month anniversary
Oh and on this note, they finally arrested the guy that was stalking my daughter Monica. It made the news in LA because it involved cyber stalking. They set his bail at $30000.00 and I hope he doesn't post it. I don't think I mentioned to you that Monica also pulled her son Garrett out of the school back there because one of his 5th grade friends was found hung in the school bathroom. They are keeping it quiet and calling it suicide but the kids are saying some 8th graders did it. So Monica is now homeschooling Garrett.
Penny
Hi,
I think maybe my meds are starting to kick back in. I am feeling
better today. I also slept pretty well last night despite my tummy
waking me for a 3am feeding. I am going to have to find a smaller
mult vitamin to take though. Mine is a "horse pill". It was fine
before. I could swollow lots of pills at once before. But now even
breaking it up is to much. The big pill gets very rough around the
edges when you break it up and It makes me gage going down. My
zoloft is tiny so goes down easy.
Though I am feeling better, I feel like I am a bit "on edge" still.
I am going to go for a walk this morning with one of my kids and
maybe that will help also.
I found that winto green life savors help with the bad taste in my
mouth. I can only eat 1, but it sure tastes good.
My skin is soooooo dry now. I am going to have to bath in lotion to
get it to stop itching! Very unusual for someone who has always had
oily skin! My incision is itchy were the tape is, so I am going to
try using less tape. Can't wait for that all to be healed!
I am able to eat more in a sitting now also. Still not more than
about a half cup of any one thing, but it is MORE! Hopefully I will
soon be able to eat enough so that my tummy will not do the 3am
feeding wake up call for too much longer.
Maybe by this thursday I will have gotten enough energy back to not
want to die when I start back to work. I am going to walk as much as
I can before than to build up the muscles! I am actually looking
forward to getting back to work, at least mostly! Maybe getting out
will help my crankiness!
Well....I am going to shower and get dressed now to take my walk.
Robin
249/228/130's ?
12 days post op
I cannot get into the group messages again. I will try to see what
Hey Robin! The Carnation instant breakfast sounds pretty good if it
makes you feel better. I also bought a few low carb slimfasts and I
have one of those in the morning while I'm getting the kids breakfast
and off to school. I drink it to hold me over until I can get
something solid in. I think they have 20 grams of protein so that
would be an option, too. I am not a chocolate person too much so I
am really enjoying the strawberry flavored one.
And so you won't feel like the lone ranger.....I'm only a few weeks
ahead of you post op, but at about 10 days to 2 weeks post op (like
you) I remember posting pretty much the same thing as far as dreading
having to find something to eat. In fact, I made the comment that
the hunt for food and actually forcing myself to eat was SUCH a chore
and eating was no longer injoyable. That made me sad. I love food!
But that, too, passed. NOW!! Weirdly enough....I'm trying new
recipes and actually starting to love to cook (I have always hated
cooking). I'm being very choosy about what I eat and only the BEST
quality foods go into my mouth and the BEST recipes and wonderful
flavors! We are so limited with the quantity of food we can
eat....so I'm making a choice to put only GREAT tasting stuff in my
mouth and making the best of the situation. Last Sunday I made an
AWESOME recipe that I have for sour cream chicken enchiladas with
refried beans and spanish rice and guacamole. Yesterday I made a
peach cobbler. I eat a few bites and enjoy it and the kids are
wondering what has gotten into me! I'm starting to love cooking and
eating awesome foods ONLY and not wasting my tiny stomach room on
mediocre stuff! I love watching the food network and getting new
ideas. On the other hand...on the days I don't feel like cooking, the
kids also love Hamburger Helper! Takes about 10 minutes of your time
to prepare and they have so many different varieties now. They are
really good! I also keep the freezer stocked with a bunch of cheap
frozen dinners right now for the kids on those days. They actually
get a kick out of picking out whatever they want to eat and popping
it in the microwave! They are loving that! Quick and THEIR choice
of what they get to eat! They aren't bad, either! OH...on the
subject of frozen dinners....I have been buying some Lean Cuisine's
for myself. (the kids know not to TOUCH MY Lean Cuisines!). They
have several different varieties that are a lot of grams of protein.
When I was earlier on....I loved the canneloni and the ravioli. Very
soft and VERY flavorful and was real easy on my tummy. And quite a
few grams of protein. I can eat half of one of those kinds at a time
so I put the little tray in the fridge in a large baggie and get it
out later on or the next day and sprinkle some parmasian cheese on it
and it's good to go. They are REALLY good!!
Also...on the subject of your mother....My Mom left at somewhere
around 2 weeks after I got home. And THAT forced me, even if I
didnt' feel completely up to it yet...to take back over my own home.
I am forced to feed the kids, I am forced to do my laundry and I am
forced to manage my house and make sure everybody is where they need
to be at whatever given time. THAT made me get up, get busy and I
felt much better when I did. When she was here, I sat around and
didn't do too much because she was here to do it. Once she left, I
suddenly perked up and got my life back. I have always had a cleaning
lady come in every 2 to 3 weeks to do a deep cleaning and keep the
bathrooms clean and the floors swept and mopped and everything
dusted. It's not nearly as expensive as you would think and it keeps
from having to yell at the kids all the time because of all the
pressure we feel to keep everything clean. All the kids have to do
is keep everything picked up and put away and the cleaning lady does
all the dirty work. It makes for a much more pleasant family and
much peace of mind for youself. I already have my cleaning lady
scheduled to come right before Thanksgiving so the pressure of having
a clean house for Thanksgiving is not on my shoulders. Do what you
have to do for yourself. Call around and ask neighbors who they
might use. I promise you will be SO surprised how little they charge
for an ENORMOUS amount of work and a HUGE load off of yourself! I
used to think only rich people had cleaning ladies but I was VERY
pleasantly surprised to find how affordable they are. I have a
pretty big house (3700 sq ft) and they charge only $80 for about 4
hours worth of cleaning for 3 ladies. That's a LOT of cleaning! And
if you can stretch it to every 3 weeks...that's only $80/ month. And
that's in Dallas. It probably wouldn't be that much in other areas.
Duty calls...babies on each leg!
Hugs...hang in there!
Lisa
-35
You are probably right, I am a very controlling person. I guess that
comes from a never having any control as a kid. Having/being in
control is a very sensitive issue for me I think. It all comes down
to feeling powerless or neglected or unacceptable. I felt all of
those emotions most of the time growing up. I felt it from my family
and from those around me. Weather is was true or NOT was actually
not the issue. Didn't matter if I was actually experiencing any of
those things. I felt that way and that was my reality. So as an
adult, I automatically try to avoid those feelings. Those feelings
did nothing positive for me and still cause huge problems for me now.
Of course that does not change the fact that a filthy bathroom is a
health issue. So I have determined that if it makes me feel
uncomfortable seeing the filthy mess, I can actually hire someone
else to clean it if nobody at home will do it. Same goes for the
lawn and any other housework. I am going to look for someone that I
can hire to do both those jobs if they get beyond my ability to
tolerate. I guess the kids won't die eating frozen pizza or PBJ's 7
days a week until I feel better. Could take a long while, but hey, at
least those things are fairly cheap to buy.
Now, the issue of paying someone to clean the dirty bathroom and any
other dirty room that bothers me will certainly cause DH some anger.
But you know what! I could really care less at this point. I make
good money when I am able to work! I will be darned if I am going to
spend my recovery time OR my off time trying to keep up with a house
that he does not want to help with. Controlling or not, there are
practical matters involved with running a household. Eventually the
kids have to have clean soxs and underware. I have to have clean soxs
and undies myself. I guess the kids and DH will have to live without
some fun stuff if I have to use the fun money to pay for things they
should be helping with at home. There again, I guess some cleaning
needs might be considered optional or a luxury. Maybe I can't expect
a spotless bathroom or kitchen every day! I guess that is going to
have to be my issue to deal with. I guess I need to reevaluate and
compromise and have a more realistic view of how often a house should
be cleaned. That is going to have to take a lot of thought.
Well...I have finished my 3am feeding and now I am getting very
sleepy (exactly like a baby, isn't that so strange!) I hope everyone
is having a successful day. I am feeling actually pretty OK with
only a small amount of nausea and tiredness.
Robin
249/228/130's
Bryan,
I tried match.com also and found a guy I dated for a year. Although
it didn't work out we are still friends. Once the majority of my
weight is lost I plan to go back. It can hurt your self estemm on
ocassion, but who isn't used to that.
Lizanne
Hi,
Here I sit at 3am and of course my tummy woke me to eat (just like a
baby). Isn't it just peachy now that I can eat, it doesn't want to
eat anything. I decided to try some Instant breakfast. I HATED that
stuff before surgery, but so far.....It is staying down. I got the
low carb kind with 150 cal, 5g fat, 15g carb, 2g fiber, 12g protein
(does that sound pretty good). It is made by carnation and is
premade. Next time I think I will try vanilla though. I have always
been a real chocolate lover, but now after surgery chocolate is
seeming to be too strong or something (too sweet). I haven't really
craved anything chocolate since surgery which is a BIG difference for
me. I see my kids with candy and it looks good, but the thought of
actually eating it is YUCK!!!
I am kind of hoping that does not change. Not counting on it, but it
would be nice.
It is very odd to me how I can go from wanting to eat at the drop of
a hat to dreading having to find something to eat. It is a whole new
feeling for me. I really don't remember ever having a time where I
did not LIKE food.
Robin
beginning day 12 post op
Well, Robin, a 13 year old can also cook dinner for the kids. The bathroom can
stay dirty until the slime begins sliding down the walls. No reason not to hope
for a big wind to blow the leaves into a neighbor's yard. In other words, Dear
Friend, it doesn't all have 2B done, and it definitely doesn't have 2B done by
you.
What I'm going to say next is written with love. I do not want to add to your
depression. I'm also not being judgmental. And goodness knows I could be
wrong. But. I wonder if you aren't being just a teensie bit controlling. You
don't actually HAVE to control everything that goes on around you. Relaxing and
going with the flow for a few weeks might have some definite benefits. Fer
instance, your kids might become less intractable. Your DH might want