Weight loss

Hi Wendy!
MAN!!! I feel bad complaining about my stomach issues now. You are
really having a tough time! I wish I had some great advise, but
sadly I don't. I do know that it is important to get in LOTS of
vitamin C, Folic Acid and Protein while you are healing that wound.
Those vitamins are needed for repairing body tissue. I have taken
care of LOTS of people with open wounds and I know it is not easy or
fun!
Congratulations on the weight loss though. That is a big plus! I
hope you heal quickly and get your energy back.
Robin G
DS 10/26/04
249/218/130's

Theresa,
My brother had the surgery 5 years ago and went from 410 lbs to 176
lbs in 11 months. Then he had a whole bunch of tucks and lost and
additional 7 lbs. He has been happy with his look and has gained
some weight back, which made him look much better. I was going to
talk with him this weekend because he had some of his surgery paid
for by insurance and I couldn't remember how he did that. I will ask
him in the next couple of days & report back.
Congradulations on your great success.
Lizanne

Hi,
I am still having BIG trouble getting in my vitamins. I just can't
swollow the big vitamins I have. It is hard enough to get my
antidepressants down. For some reason pills are harder to swollow
and I can't gulp water like I used to. If they get stuck, than I gag
forever! UGH!!!!
I am feeling very tired and have NO energy. I am also feeling a bit
depressed or "flat" Like I really don't want to do anything but lay
around and sleep. I don't really want to go anywhere, especially
after working several days in a row. I don't really even want to be
around people that much. I am also pretty cranky! Basically I am a
MESS!
I have heard of the liquid vitamins from companies like vitalady. I
am wondering if they really taste nasty? Are they good quality? I
just don't think I can get anything down that has a really bad
taste. My gag reflex is very sensitive lately also. I used to be
able to take several pills at a time but now I can't. If it taste
nasty and gets stuck in my mouth or throat, It all just comes back up
eventually.
I guess I need some good suggestions on vitamins that I can take.
Liquid or very small tablets that are easy to swollow.
Thanks
Robin G
10/26/04
249/218/130's
down 31 pounds in 1 month! But feeling very very listless and tired!

Hi u guys.... Well my ds was on 9/28/04 and Im down 65 lbs
WOOOOHOO!!! I have felt terrible with all the kidney stone mess and
now an infection but I am very happy about the weight loss!!
I have a very bad infection and they had to open me back up literally
and let me heal from the inside out..I have advance homecare nurses
come twice a day to clean and pack, UUUGHHHH!!! Over the holidays my
hubby had to do it and he has been doin an excellent job... I have
been on antibiotics and pain meds for a while now and have had no
appetite at all what so ever!!! When u have to look at this huge hole
that u can stick ur whole hand in, in ur stomach twice a day it kinda
takes away being hungry.. I am so tierd but I think its from not
doing anything!!! Im not able to clean, bend, stoop, lift etc etc!!!!
I have to lay or sit here and do NOTHING!!!! Doctors r saying maybe 2
months to heal...WOW!!!! Christmas is right around the corner and I
feel so YUCK!!!! I know it will all get better and I will be back to
my old self but as for now it really SUCKS!!! Today is the last day
of antibiotics and I only take maybe 1 pain pill a day so Monday I
will start back on all my vitamins, that maybe another reason for my
weakness but no vitamins with the antibiotics I was takin, i learned
that the hard way!! U guys keep me in ur prayers, PLEASE, the last
couple of weeks have been pretty scary!! Thanks for listening and I
wish u all the best... Good luck and God Bless!!!
Wendy Andrews
-65 lbs
ds on 9/28/04

"Lisa Cooper" wrote:...I think I will just take my multi twice a day
and the calcium twice a day and chew a few tums throughout the day,
too.
Hi Lisa,
Sorry to get in on the tail end of this, but David's comment about
whether you get your calcium from carbonate or citrate, while true,
is problematic. Most surgeons these days are recommending citrate as
the supplement of choice because it is absorbed by the body more
readily. As a matter of fact, the amount of calcium that we absorb
from citrate is 2.5 times as much*.
*In an article in the November, 1999 issue of The Journal of
Clinical Pharmacology, Howard J. Heller, MD and his colleagues
compared the calcium absorption of Citracal (a calcium citrate
formulation) and Os-Cal (a calcium carbonate one) after a single
oral dose (500 mg calcium), taken with a meal. By measuring blood
levels of calcium, they demonstrated that calcium citrate is 2.5
times more bioavailable (easier for your body to use) than calcium
carbonate.
Since most surgeons recommend 1800MG of ELEMENTAL calcium (in the
form of citrate)for post-ops, if you want your body to ABSORB the
same amount of calcium, you would need to take a total of 4500MG of
carbonate to have the same effect on the body. In addition, you
would need to spread out the tablets so you are taking approximately
500MG about every 2 hours. In the case of Tums-EX (or a generic
equivalent, this would mean that if you took your first dose at 8AM,
and faithfully chewed 2 tablets every 2 hours thereafter, you would
take your last dose at midnight.
Please also be careful about dosage. Most calcium citrate
supplements list the amount of elemental calcium in TWO capsules or
tablets. It is easy to miss this, and many people are taking 1/2 the
amount of calcium recommended, and think they are taking the
recommended dosage.
I hope this helps,
Mike Adams
Surgery 6/30/2004
Dr Marchesini
SW / CW / GW
451 / 322 / 250-210

WOOOHOOO Robin... Just think that was just after 31 lbs, imagine all
the other things u will be noticing on ur journey...Congrates and Im
doing the HAPPY DANCE 4 u....
Wendy Andrews
-65 lbs
ds on 9/28/04

Ally,
Maybe it's the quantity. At home maybe you nibble more often, or
more at a time, or more carbs. Or your body may just be able to
handle 5 crackers, but the sixth one puts you over the top for carbs.
Or it could be that you are too preoccupied to notice????
Just like this niacin incident. Last Thurs I started my new vitamin
regimend and it included niacin, but I was taking them at home just
before I left for work. It could have been that when I was driving
to work, I could have had the same sensation, but thought it was sun
shining in the car and just opened the windows. Who knows.
Try limiting yourself to a certain amount of crackers, or potatoes,
or whatever and fill up on non carbs. That's all I can suggest.
Lizanne

WOW Kathy GOOD JOB!!!!! 67 lbs in 4 months... CONGRATES and keep up
the good work!!!!
Wendy Andrews
-65 lbs
ds on 9/28/04

Hi Kay-
There is a lady in my live support group that is in her mid 60's that had the
bypass and she is fantastic. She says she's never been happier or felt better
in her life.
~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

No..the book was called The Fart Book I'm pretty sure. I bought it online
somewhere since I never go to stores. Have no idea who wrote or published
it. It was great because it did talk about forming gas and I think it had
to do with animals as well as people. I really don't think I ever read the
whole book. Just watched Michael giggle as he browsed it and then put it
aside to open the next gift. He later told me that he brought it to a
sleepover so his friends could see it. Boys that age are so fascinated by
bodily functions and excretions, etc. The grosser the better. W

I'm just curious if anyone else experiences what I do.
I have noticed that since my surgery my pouch will, on some days, handle what I
eat and then the next day I can eat the EXACT same thing and it makes me sick.
It's the darndest thing. Sometimes it doesn't even have to be the next day.
For example...
At the party I went to Saturday night there was NOTHING to eat on my approved
list except some dip that was made with cream cheese, blue cheese and mayo (high
fat, but still no carbs). Throughout the night when I felt myself getting
hungry I would have a tiny bite of that dip on a whole wheat cracker. All
evening I ate that dip, but at the end of the night just before leaving for the
1 1/2 hour drive I had the dip, same thing with the cracker, and I was so sick
all the way home I thought I would hurl.
This happens to me ALL the time. I never get nauseated at work. Never, ever,
but at home I get nauseated almost every night even if I eat the same thing at
home I had for lunch. It's almost like as long as I keep my mind engaged with
something while I eat and directly after I eat then it keeps me focused and I
don't feel sick, but if I'm just sitting around watching TV or whatever I focus
on the way my tummy feels and I feel gross.
Does anyone else experience this or something similar?
~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

What is Growing up Gotti? The only Gotti I can think of is the crime boss
in NY way back when but that can't be what you mean since that isn't my
grandson. I was just saying having raised girls and knowing what 13 brought
I am having fun seeing how a boy changes at that age. W

Kay,
I am so glad you made it here. Glad to hear from you. Penny will
reply later today probably, she is in your age range, and she just had
her surgery around 5 months ago. Welcome to the group.
Lizanne

Kathy....whenever I have film developed I ask them to put them on a CD as
well. I then send them to someone to post them for me because I haven't the
faintest idea how. But since I have the CD at least I can exchange family
pictures back and forth as a jpg,etc. W

Hi all
I will be 65 in April and at first my surgeon wanted to do lap band
because of that but my insurance will not approve that only by pass, so
that is what I am doing. I am curious of how many of you know anybody
older that has had it and how they have done?? thanks Kay

Interesting. I don't take Niacin, but this is what I found on the internet.
USES: Niacin (nicotinic acid) is used to prevent and treat niacin deficiency. It
is also used to improve cholesterol and lower fat levels (triglycerides) in the
blood.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication as directed. Follow any special dietary
recommendations made by your doctor or nutritionist while taking this
medication. Take this medication with food to prevent stomach upset.
Timed-release capsules or tablets must be swallowed whole. Do not crush or chew
them or the long action may be destroyed and side effects increased. If you are
prescribed bile acid resin drugs (e.g., colestipol, cholestyramine) separate the
dose from niacin by 6 hours or more.
SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may cause flushing and a feeling of warmth about
the face and neck within the first two hours of taking a dose. Itching,
tingling, or headache may occur as well. These effects should subside as your
body adjusts to the medication. Stomach upset, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, and
diarrhea may also occur. Report promptly any of these effects if they persist or
worsen. Unlikely but report promptly: vision problems, dark urine, stomach
(abdominal) pain, yellowing eyes or skin, irregular heartbeat, black stools,
increased urination, muscle aches/pains. In the unlikely event you have an
allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms
include: rash, swelling, dizziness, fainting, trouble breathing. To minimize the
flushing effect (redness, itch) take a plain (not enteric-coated) 325 mg aspirin
tablet (or other NSAIDs such as ibuprofen) 30 minutes before each niacin dose.
After a few weeks, this flushing
effect should stop occurring, or decrease in intensity. Also, avoid alcohol or
hot beverages near the time of the niacin dose. Consult your doctor or
pharmacist. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.
~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

Oh, these adventures keep coming, don't they. I have always been a
vitamin taker. I have not been very good at this task since my
surgery. So today I brought my little container of vitamins to work,
and have been taking them one at a time. I had always heard that
niacin can cause flushing of the face, but never had that side
effect. Well, right now I am burning up. My face and my forearms are
blazing hot and blazing red, and I just took the pill 10 minutes ago.
The top of my head, oh and now my whole arms are on fire. Does anyone
know how long this lasts? Wow, now my back is burning. Such
adventures.
Lizanne

Welcome Valeri, glad to see you over here.
Granny Penny in San Diego

Good grief Sharon, when do you see the doc again. You just take it easy for now.
You can always catch up on working out later but we don't want anything bad
happening to you.
Love ya Penny

How are we supposed to tell you how FABULOUS you look when you start
losing weight if you don't give us a BEFORE pic?!?!?
Lora

1. Name: Valeri
2. City and State: Lodi Ca
3. E-mail Address: vjshoem@...
4. Are you: Considering Surgery, Pre-Op or Post-Op: Pre-op (thinnking
positive)
5. Date of WLS:
6. Surgeon¢s Name and Location: Kaiser in Fremont Ca
7. Type of Surgery:
8. Highest Pre-Surgery Weight:
9. Insurance or Self-Pay: Insurance
10. What is the name of the insurance company that covered your WLS (if
applicable): Kaiser
11. Birthdate:4-14-52
12. Occupation: INside sales rep
13. Married or Single (if married what is your spouse¢s name?): divorced
14. Do you have children? If so, what are their names? Tim 30, Ken 29
15. Hobbies: GOLF and scrapbooking
16. Anything else you would like to share with other members: not yet

You're on your way to getting an improved gorgeous outside to match
your beautiful insides! Have a great trip Andrea. I'll meet you when
I arrive at the hotel on Dec. 9th and we'll have a chance to get to
know each other then.
Best of luck with your surgeries and your viaje!
Patrice in Austin TX
Leaving 12/8/
Surgery 12/14

Awwww...Kelly! Your post just makes me miss Ana so much more! I
truly miss her! She's everything you said. She was my FRIEND while
I was there! She took me under her wing and went everywhere I needed
with me to help translate and also she made sure I didn't
get "screwed" by the language barrier and the exchange of money.
When we were shopping on the streets in Curitiba, I kept noticing her
getting on my left side and when I asked her what she was doing, she
was walking on the side that I carried my purse because she said that
she didn't want someone to snatch my purse because they know that us
American's are usually carrying quite a bit of money. She called to
just check on me on the FEW days that I didn't see her. She showed
up at the hotel the morning of my departure just to say good bye. I
can't imagine going to Brazil and not hooking up with Ana! She's a
God loving Christian and a wonderful human being! Thanks for
reminding me of Ana! I need to send her a card!
Lisa
STILL -45
262/217/140.....I ATE LIKE A PIG YESTERDAY!!

I didn't even know you could do that in the water. I guess the water adds
resistance... it either facilitates exercise or steps it up, depending on what
movements you make.
Pat
lizanneflowers <lizanneflowers@...
Pat,
Just before my water aerobics class there is a spin class in the
pool. Those women and one man are exhausted when they are done. I
would think that the spin part would be easier in the water, but she
makes them do additional exercises with the tops of their bodies
too. It looks very strenuous.
Lizanne

See, you do still love us eventhough you know what we look like.
Will we be very shocked when we see your pictures?
Lizanne

Pat,
hahahahahahahahaha!

abuse???!!!??? EVERYTHING I say is said with love!!!!
Pat
lizanneflowers <lizanneflowers@...
Pat,
You have been free with your "abuse" of others, and now you expect
that we will just be the loving sweet friends that don't retaliate.
Who are you kidding.
Lizanne

Robin
You are doing great. 31 pounds in one month is fabulous. Too bad you had
to work for Thanksgiving, but I guess that you were not alone. My sister
also is a nurse and she has to work on both Thanksgiving and on Christmas
eve. Sometimes being a RN sucks big time huh?
Kathy
Hi,
getting ready for work, but I wanted to mention really quickly that I
have noticed that my KNEES do not hurt anymore when I am at work and
am bending or sitting or walking down stairs! I think just taking
off these first few pounds has really helped. Now I can't wait to
get the rest off. I also was kind of happy that I am not able to eat
much yet. I worked thanksgiving (yesterday) and there were tons of
snacks and goodies at the Nurses station (very typical for nurses and
doctors!) I was only able to sample a few tiny bites here and there,
but I was totally happy with that. Mostly I took some bites of
cheese and crackers etc.... I did eat one tiny piece of peanut butter
fudge and a very small bite of cheese cake. Everything stayed down
and I did not feel guilty like I "pigged out".
Thats it...I gotta go to work now. OH!!!! and I am down 31 pounds in
exactly 1 month today!
Robin G
10/26/04
249/218/130ish
1 month post op and down 31 pounds!!!!

Pat,
Just before my water aerobics class there is a spin class in the
pool. Those women and one man are exhausted when they are done. I
would think that the spin part would be easier in the water, but she
makes them do additional exercises with the tops of their bodies
too. It looks very strenuous.
Lizanne

Pat,
You have been free with your "abuse" of others, and now you expect
that we will just be the loving sweet friends that don't retaliate.
Who are you kidding.
Lizanne

Alex,
Welcome. Can you help me get up to speed again with your story. The
last I knew you had to lose some weight in order to get the surgery
with Kaiser and you were having a really hard time. Sounds like that
hasn't changed. Did you try the Atkins Diet?
Let us know how the visit with your NUT went.
Lizanne

Hi,
getting ready for work, but I wanted to mention really quickly that I
have noticed that my KNEES do not hurt anymore when I am at work and
am bending or sitting or walking down stairs! I think just taking
off these first few pounds has really helped. Now I can't wait to
get the rest off. I also was kind of happy that I am not able to eat
much yet. I worked thanksgiving (yesterday) and there were tons of
snacks and goodies at the Nurses station (very typical for nurses and
doctors!) I was only able to sample a few tiny bites here and there,
but I was totally happy with that. Mostly I took some bites of
cheese and crackers etc.... I did eat one tiny piece of peanut butter
fudge and a very small bite of cheese cake. Everything stayed down
and I did not feel guilty like I "pigged out".
Thats it...I gotta go to work now. OH!!!! and I am down 31 pounds in
exactly 1 month today!
Robin G
10/26/04
249/218/130ish
1 month post op and down 31 pounds!!!!

Welcome Valerie,
How long of a wait is it before you get scheduled for surgery? You
say about a couple of weeks before the appointment to meet the
surgeon in your message. But then how long until you get your actual
date? I remember that was a really hard wait. But it went very
fast.
About the medicinal MJ? I have no idea. Here in the east there is
really no such thing, except maybe NJ. I have no appetite but MJ
would make me more sluggish, and I was sluggish enough after the
surgery. I am really only just starting to lose my slug mentality.
Lizanne

Sad news for him... he is no longer the only male here!! On the upside (for
Bryan, not for the ladies), Alex is married.
Pat
Sharon Buffo <septsweety@...
Pat,
This is a Man on the prowl. . You gotta be careful of those LOLOL
sharon xoxo

Bryan,
You should have been here for that discussion. It seems that Pat is
afraid we will stop loving her if she posts a picture. She has
looked at all of us, and I bet she didn't start to hate us.....yet.
But for some reason, she won't post a before pic until she can also
post an after photo.
Pat, I haven't posted an after pic yet and I had my surgery 10 weeks
ago. Do you hate me because I'm not cute?
Lizanne

I think Pat must have 2 heads. That's why she's hiding herself from us!
~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

That is something I hadn't thought about! The tea might be just the
thing for me.
Thank David!
Robin G

Hi Valerie :) Welcome to the group!
LOL... sounds like that guys "medicinal" marijuana is self-prescribed! I
sincerely doubt he is using it legally. If he is playing golf he probably isn't
all bad...at least he wasn't out dealing drugs (unless that's what he was doing
at the golf club!) lmao
That's great that you are getting out and doing something like that with your
new hip and knee! Great exercise!
Pat
vjshoem <vjshoem@...
Hi all,
I am still sitting on the bench waiting for the coach to call my
number. I should be hearing from Kaiser in a couple of weeks for an
appt to meet with the surgeon.
I have taken up golf with a vengence. I used to play some, but since
knee and hip replacement and multiple other surgeries for arithitis and
the hope of gbs, I decided to go gofling. I met a young man today at
the golf course that had GBS 1 year ago. He has lost 200 lbs. I
should have been really impressed, and I was, but it was difficult to
see past his tatoos and piercings. LOL He told me he is
on "medicinal" marijuana becuase he could not eat. The marijuana
increaed his appetite. Have any of you heard of a legal use of MJ
post gbs?
vALERI

Im going for it as soon as i can do it. . I know of a doctor that had twins and
she told me thats how she got back into shape. . It makes your break a sweat.
.for sure. .
sharon xoxo

Pat,
This is a Man on the prowl. . You gotta be careful of those LOLOL
sharon xoxo

Try:
http://www.accorhotels.com.br/guiahoteis/parthenon/hotel_main.asp?
cd_hotel=44
It lists R$98/weekdays and R$89/weekends
Email the hotel
I never received a return written confirmation, however. So I called
and confirmed the rate with Vincent.
It remains to be seen if they honor that rate.
Also, the Brazilian Real changes rates daily so keep an eye on that
at http://www.x-rates.com/d/BRL/table.html
Good luck to you Diane!
Patrice in TX

Valerie!!! Welcome to the group... so nice to see you again . .Pot for GBS?
thats interesting. . LOL nope i havent. . gotta figure out a way to do that
LOLOL Hows the golf going?
sharon xoxo

I never took a spinning class, but I had a former co-worker who did. She called
the instructor the "spin nazi". That was enough to scare ME off!! LOL
Pat
Sharon Buffo <septsweety@...
Penny,
With what happened yesterday . .im afraid to do anything at all strenous. . its
only another week and i will get back into the swing of it. . when i started
bleeding yesterday just by having a BM. . i thought i was done w/ it. . now its
all started again . .I will watch it close and im still eating my protein and
such . . and im not gaining. . this is just a small set back . .im am in no way
done working out!!! i want to get where i can do the stair master and the
eliptical well .. and actually jog on the treadmill . then do spinning class. .
thats a hard class. . you sweat your brains away. . ....
anyway i will let you know as i know more. .
sharon xoxo

Hi Kathy,
Congratulations! 67 pounds is outstanding.
Now how about some new pictures? :)
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 November 6: 277lbs (BMI 44.7)
Total loss on November 6: -100lbs

Welcome to the group Alex!!! So glad you could join!!!
sharon xoxo

How time flies!!! 11-21 was my 4 month anniversary. I have lot 67
pounds. I am sooo happy. People are starting to notice and ask
questions. I feel great!!! I can eat a little bit more than in the
beginning but not a lot more. That's okay! I have tons of energy
and stamina!
I still have diahrrea in the a.m. and occasionally later in the day
(but not often). I am almost half way to my goal and can't wait to
get there. I have nothing but good things to say about this
surgery. I own a small business and when customers ask about my
weight loss I openly tell them all about it. They are shocked when
I say I went to Brazil to have the surgery. They want to know
everything about it. People are facinated by the fact that there
are other forms of WLS and that I traveled to a foreign country to
have it done. I am not ashamed and am happy to spread the good info!
I hope everyone here has a wonderful Thanksgiving and enjoys the
upcoming holiday season!
BTW, I put on a pair of pants that I wore in Brazil to do some
painting. I figured they wouldn't fit for long anymore anyway, so
it was okay to get paint on them. They fell straight down to the
floor. That really tells the tale!!
Kathy B in KC
7-21-04
-67

Oh geeez... yet another room where I have to tiptoe around and be careful what I
say. I TOLD YOU I was gonna get a lot of flack about that!! That will teach me
to open my mouth! In the future I will be sure to censor myself.
Pat
Tell You Later <lik2hunt31@...
Your SO sweet, to bad I cant find a pic of you!! Why cant I, huh
huh???
Bryan, Indiana
LRNY 5-09-07
370/260/210ish
HW/CW/GW

Hi Robin,
I had a bit of a cold about a week after I got home from Brazil. Since I
couldn't (and still can't) swallow pills I couldn't take cold medicine that
way. What I used instead was Theraflu Tea. There are quite a few different
formulas out there now. It worked for me and I found it very soothing. So
its something you might want to consider.
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 November 6: 277lbs (BMI 44.7)
Total loss on November 6: -100lbs

Alex!! You're here!! Thanks for joining us :))
Pat
astrabinick <astrabinick@...
Hi Guys,

Hi Guys,

New Member Questionnaire
1. Name: Alex Strabinick
2. City and State: San Jose , California
3. E-mail Address: astrabinick@...
4. Are you: Considering Surgery, Pre-Op or Post-Op: Pre-Op
5. Date of WLS: None yet.
6. Surgeon's Name and Location: Don't know, SSF Kaiser
7. Type of Surgery: Rny
8. Highest Pre-Surgery Weight: 380
9. Insurance or Self-Pay: Insurance
10. What is the name of the insurance company that covered your WLS
(if
applicable): Kaiser
11. Birthdate: 11/28/1964
12. Occupation: Computer Operator/ Security Guard .
13. Married or Single (if married what is your spouse's name?):
Cheryl
14. Do you have children? If so, what are their names? Samantha
15. Hobbies: Movies, UFC, WWE
16. Anything else you would like to share with other members: Not at
the moment.

Hi all,
I am still sitting on the bench waiting for the coach to call my
number. I should be hearing from Kaiser in a couple of weeks for an
appt to meet with the surgeon.
I have taken up golf with a vengence. I used to play some, but since
knee and hip replacement and multiple other surgeries for arithitis and
the hope of gbs, I decided to go gofling. I met a young man today at
the golf course that had GBS 1 year ago. He has lost 200 lbs. I
should have been really impressed, and I was, but it was difficult to
see past his tatoos and piercings. LOL He told me he is
on "medicinal" marijuana becuase he could not eat. The marijuana
increaed his appetite. Have any of you heard of a legal use of MJ
post gbs?
vALERI

Your SO sweet, to bad I cant find a pic of you!! Why cant I, huh
huh???
Bryan, Indiana
LRNY 5-09-07
370/260/210ish
HW/CW/GW

Thanks Wendy!
I almost wonder if the surgeon going with him will want to learn how
to do the DS after seeing the success of Dr. M's patients.
I would love to have Plastics done by Dr. C. I feel so comfortable
in the fact of knowing that Dr. M recommends Dr. C.
Your picture is great by the way. I need to post new ones of me
too.
Take care,
Natalie

Natalie....your stats are wonderful and I am thrilled to hear not only that
your doctor is going down to Curitiba but the friend he is bringing is a
colleague. I joked the other day that Dr. M is becoming the doctor's doctor
and it is oh so true. When the time comes for PS remember that Dr. C is
also the doctor's doctor. How wonderful that there will be a general
surgeon in your area who knows what's what with the internal plumbing. You
and those who follow will have the best of follow up. W

My weight fluctuates as you know and I stopped very early but basically I am
down 160 lbs from my high of April, 2003 and about 126 since the DS
inAugust, 2003. That picture was taken on my one year anniversary and I am
now almost 16 months out. I still weigh in the 250's but that is all lower
body hanging skin/fluid/lymphatic stuff which may or may not be removed.
Time will tell. Thanks much. W

GOOD LUCK SHENISE!!! WE WILL BE WAITING IN THE LOSING LOUNGE FOR YOU. ;-D
SHARON XOXO

Hi Lisa, I've been eating a whole quarter of a watermelon at a time but these
are the seedless variety and they are pretty small, kinda like drinking maybe 20
oz of water. Apples: I can eat 1 at a time with no problems, I only eat the
golden ones though. Grapes, I've had maybe 20 at a time and last week I totally
overdid it with pineapples and ate maybe 10 pieces in one sitting without any
reflux or other problems. But, sugar doesn't make me dump so who knows what I
can eat that the average person probably couldn't.
Smidgies Mom <lisaatwell1968@...
How much are you eating? I am still terrified of that too. I am affraid that
I will dump from the sugar...I love apples this time of year and there are so
many orchards around us that you can go picking at....my kids love to do that!
I also love pears and grapes which we have in the fridge but I am not sure I
should go there yet.
San, 34, Single
No Kids - Zion, IL
Far North 'burb of Chgo
Lap RNY 08.28.07
Highest Weight: 370
Surgery Weight: 370
Current Weight: 325
Goal Weight: 150

Hi everyone,
I really enjoy reading all of the posts and glad to see everyone is
doing so well. Congrats!!!
I am now 7 months post op and have lost 108 pounds!! YEAH! I have
had problems with kidney stones and dehydration but I did have the
stones before the DS too.
Robin, I did have problems taking antihistamines. I think I got a
little dehydrated but that was my own experience. Just becareful and
maybe try a half dose first. I noticed I was more sensitive to them.
I am at a little plateau now but hope that everything will kick in
soon. Maybe I need to really limit the carbs for awhile. I have
gone from a size 24 to a size 12 to 14 depending on the clothes.
I am an OB/GYN nurse and the doctor, Dr. L that I work for is leaving
on Dec 8th for Brazil. He is taking a general surgeon with him to
Brazil and that surgeon plans to watch Dr. M do the procedure on Dr.
L. Dr. L stated that he would like someone around him to know what
his insides look like in case he ever needed anything. Dr. L's wife
passed away about 2 years ago from breast cancer and he has 4
children the youngest is 15 (I think)or maybe younger. He told me
the other day that he wants to live long enough to see his grand kids
grow up. He had seriously considered the lap band. Thanks to Nina
and Janie and myself we really encouraged him to consider the DS
especially due to the amount of weight lost and keeping it off.
I would really hope that those of us in Texas could form or go to a
support group meeting. I know I would really enjoy seeing everyone
there.
Take care everyone,
Natalie in Texas

Hi,
Your picture is very nice. You have lost a lot of weight.
Robin G

Dr M is also a full professor of surgery so he is use to having his
work observed.
joanne

Wendy,
you look awesome!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
stella

Can I just say that I love her! ; ) She was so very sweet to us and we even had
her stay with us while we were shopping to help with the language barriers. She
was always so kind and just plain fun to hang out with- she was most definitely
one of the biggest highlights in my trip! : )
-Kelly

can someone please direct me to the best online rate
available for the parthenon? i've come up with $41.81.
is there a cheaper rate?
thanks!
diane

2.15. Visas: General information about visas (necessary to travel to
Brazil) can be obtained from the Brazilian Embassy in Ottawa:
(Consular Sector: from 9:30 am to 1 pm; 2:30pm to 5 pm
450 Wilbrod Street; Ottawa ON - K1N 6M8; Tel: (613) 237 1090; Fax:
(613) 237 6144; E-mail:mailbox@... or
consular@...; the Visa Application Form is available
from the Embassy's Website:
www.brasembottawa.org/eng_Visa_Application_Form.doc
Other Brazilian Consular Representations in Canada are the
following:
(a) Consulate General of Brazil in Montreal
(www.total.net/~consbras; from 10:00 am to 4 pm;
Centre Manuvie - 2000 Mansfield Street, Suite 1700, Montreal, PQ -
H3A 3A5
Tel: (514) 499 0968/69/70; Fax: (514) 499 3963; E-mail:
consbras@...); and
(b) Consulate General of Brazil in Toronto
(www.consbrastoronto.org/; from 9 am to 3 pm; 77 Bloor Street West,
Suite 1109 - Toronto, ON - M5S 1M2;
Tel: (416) 922 2503; Fax: (416) 922 1832; E-mails:
mail@... or consular@...

Renee, I hope you and your family have a happy Thanksgiving.
George, Lori and I met Renee and her husband at a restaurant in New
Orleans at Halloween, right before we went on a cruise out of New
Orleans. Renee looks thin and gorgeous! She was kind enough to give
each of us a bag of tasty Louisiana treats. Thanks so much, Renee.
In New Orleans, Lori Kowalski gave me a painting of those unique trees
that only grow in Curitiba. Some vendors were selling them at the Avenue
of Flowers and I wanted to buy one, but I did not have any local
currency with me. She was so thoughtful to do this for me. Thank you
so much, Lori. BTW, Lori is looking awfully thin and gorgeous herself.
Happy Thanksgiving everybody.
Becca

Dortha is a travel agent in Oklahoma City and she has gotten the tickets for
so many of us to Curitiba she knows just what we want...i.e. no airport
transfer in Sao Paulo, wheel chair for return, etc. etc. Her info is in the
files. Ana is an English speaking taxi driver in Curitiba who is a boon.
People found her after I was there darn it. Her cousins are dentists and
many people go there. She has taken people sightseeing for the day, drives
people here and there and can help with anything you may need. She has
excellent English. I sure hope I can get back there for my PS because I've
never met her and I hear such wonderful things about her. W

well i might as well tell everyone lol Im only 4'9. Im know as a short sh*t
LOL...

OK guys. . i read this as a joke. .but went and checked my cabinet and guess
what is on the adhesive sticker for the pad? You got it. . "Have a nice period"
Can you believe that? This lady isnt lying and its not a joke .. its the
truth!!
sharon xoxo

Just thought I'd say there is a new picture of me in the Dr. M photo annex
section. It was taken last August with my brother and shows how my upper
body has changed. I almost have a collar bone. It was taken on my one year
anniversary date and I just finally got it developed. W

regarding medical reciprocity--i asked. i took the
initiative myself, kathryn. in fact, i always ask every
doctor not covered by my insurance. i also did the same
with a plastics man here in the states, who offered me a
small discount. (not enough to make it worth staying
here rather than going to brazil.)
dh didn't even know i was doing it--though he was
certainly pleased after the fact. i don't think it would ever
have occurred to dr. b otherwise. please don't think he
was trying to put one over on you.
i don't feel comfortable telling my exact financial
arrangements to anyone--hope you understand.
diane

i invited Al and Alex and John and Jim. . where are the men?? and i invited my
son and Shauna. . we need more men in here to balance group .. we know your out
there!!!
sharon xoxo

I certainly agree with Myrtice about this group. I'd have felt completely on my
own here in the Columbia Gorge without the strong support of this group and one
or two others. Many of us live too far away to travel to group meetings, and
the internet is the next best thing. It's been a lifesaver for me. Hugs to
all, Sherry
Myrtice <myrtice200@...
I don't know what I would do without this grouop. You guys have all
the answers.
Sherry Head
High 290 1/13/04 Pre-op 260.5 11/20/04 182.8 Total Loss 77.7 Weekly loss 1.4
Diabetes cured
I has met the enemy and he is us! - Pogo

OMG!!! we have created a monster!!! LOL
sharon xoxo

I don't know what I would do without this grouop. You guys have all
the answers.
What is the number to the hotel and the number to the hospital? I
know I have family who will want to call me. Will language be a
barrier for family calling in?

Look in a mirror, Bryan ;)
Pat
Tell You Later <lik2hunt31@...
Pat, Who's the "hot guy" your talking about? Do I have competition in
here?lol
Bryan, Indiana
LRNY 5-09-07
372/260/210ish
HW/CW/GW

I see no competition.J
LisaM

Hi everyone,
I've been in a class for the past 2 weeks and away from my computer so I'm
trying to play catch-up. Hope everyone is doing well and I hope you all have a
wonderful Thanksgiving.
Renee

Pat, Who's the "hot guy" your talking about? Do I have competition in
here?lol
Bryan, Indiana
LRNY 5-09-07
372/260/210ish
HW/CW/GW

Lizanne it is Lake Chaugoggagaugmanchugogaguagchabunggagungamaug. Better known
as Webster Lake. It is the lake in the town near my home. We spend a lot of
time there. I am sorry that I mispelled it. My kids can spell it but I am not
that good. I think I put too many "U's" in it.
:) Lisa A.
lizanneflowers <lizanneflowers@...
lisa A,
I was just getting around to actually looking at all the pictures.
Yours are great. Where were the ones by the lake (?) taken?
Lizanne

Okay I think I can handle this. I will find the pics I want to use and then let
everyone know. Thanks for helping me.
Penny

Oh gosh girl take care of yourself..Otherwise I will have to send Pat up there
to care for you and who knows how that could end up...maybe with both of you
needing to be hospitalized...LOL...
You know now being older than most..my ob gyn doc said as we women get older and
go through menopause our uterine lining dries out and can create cracks in the
wall that will cause some minor bleeding. In fact I had to be cauterized for
just such a thing a couple of years back..Wasn't pleasant but I was grateful
there was nothing more serious. Ladies..and gentlemen..be sure and have your
annual physical done with all those non-mentionable areas checked...It really is
important as you can see from some of our post. We may get slimmer and healthier
but we are still susceptible to other illnesses.
Granny Penny in San Diego giving a granny pep talk.

Fantastic idea Penny! I'll get working on it.
~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

Well...they're naturally...large, but it was the corset working most of the
magic.
Thank you for the compliment. It was nice to go out and feel confident dressed
up. Always before I felt really self concious about my weight.
~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

HEY! Another Lisa! Welcome! I'm sure other's have already answered
this question, but I just wanted to comment because I was as stressed
out as you were about ordering tickets and making sure I did the
right thing. SO, I used Dortha! She's in the files or links
section. Call her up and tell her your information and let her
handle the rest. That way, it's just handled and you won't have to
worry about a thing....you'll get your tickets in a day or two! Good
luck!
Lisa
Switched Oct. 1
262/217/140

No bike yet but I think I want a Hawg....LOL.
Hey what part of S.D. is he in. Well, God bless him for helping us out here and
I hope he get to meet Arnold in person..he is so cool...
On the colon cancer I am glad he is doing so well. My niece was the youngest
person ever diagnosed with colon cancer at 27 years of age. At the time no one
knew she was pregnant and I need say no more about that. She was able to have a
child a couple of years later. They actually found a cancerous polyp in her mom
a couple of years ago and say that both or either parent carries the cancer
gene. Anyway that is what the doc told her. Please give your husband a huge hug
and kiss from all of us here in San Diego and tell him we appreciate it so very
very much..
Granny Penny whose dying to get back out and walk, swim and yoga..plus a few
other things....

And much prayer coming your way...Ally a consideration for the files...a list of
what to take to the hospital and what not to take to the hospital..
Penny

I couldn't have done school at this point! My brain is not
functioning on all thrusters right now. I need to do some
continueing education for my job, but concentrating is tough. So you
really accomplished alot just by going to classes so early out. I
can't wait until I can say I have lost 100pounds like you have. I
just seems so unreal that I can actually do it!
Robin G

Ally you look great in that costume..Is that the miracle bra or the corset that
is giving you such great boobs. Whatever it is I want one...LOL.. The both of
you look great together also. You have come a long ways girl..It is such an
incentive for all.
Penny in San Diego ..wanting to push her boobs up also...

Hi Robin,
Congratulations on your weight loss!
Listening to your 1 month update reminds me so much of me at that point.
Even though I've lost 100+ pounds now I am always wishing that I could just
lose all my weight right NOW! I want it gone and I want it gone this
instant.
The first places I lost weight were my face and my feet. I really need new
shoes at this point, but I hate to toss my $250 Finn Comforts.
The eating thing does get better, but it's a slow process. Even at almost 5
months out I still don't really enjoy eating. At 1 month out I had a huge
struggle to get in more than 20g of protein a day. I still don't get in
enough every day but it is better. The most important things are your water
and your supplements.
I'm amazed you have the energy to work a 12 hour shift 3 times a week. At 1
month I hardly had the energy to do anything. When I started school at
about 6 weeks post-op I'd come home and absolutely collapse into a heap for
the rest of the day. It was probably 3 months before my energy levels were
at pre-op levels. Now I have much more energy than I've had in years.
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 November 6: 277lbs (BMI 44.7)
Total loss on November 6: -100lbs

Hi Lisa,
Don't stress out about it. Call Dortha. Dortha is a travel agent that many
of us have used to book our flights to Brazil. She runs a travel agency
called All-About-Travel. I found that her prices were about the same as
anything I could find on my own. By letting Dortha handle all the travel
arrangements it was one less thing for me to worry about.
http://www.allabout-travel.com/
405-848-8517
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 November 6: 277lbs (BMI 44.7)
Total loss on November 6: -100lbs

i do try. . .
sharon :(( still pouting LOL

Sharon is the master diplomat.
Lizanne

Hi everyone,
I am down 29 pounds now and many inches. I am pretty happy about the
29 pounds. Wish I could lose it all overnight! But we all know that
is not going to happen. Even if I lose pretty slowly, I am OK with
that because I know it will NOT come back! YIPEEE!!!!
All my clothes are getting lose and I need to buy some new bras
soon. Why is it you lose the weight FIRST where you really don't
care about? I sure wish the tummy and hips would lose it
first...SIGH! My feet are down a shoe size though!
I am fighting allergies right now! Or a cold or something! My
sinuses are bugging me.
I am struggling with basic stuff like taking my meds and vitamins and
drinking enough water and eating enough food still. I am
experimenting with acid reducers. I still HATE eating! I get
terrible uncomfortable grumbly feelings when I start eating. They
feel like hunger pains from hell! When that goes away, I will be
dancing in the streets! Right now I think I am more excited to get
ride of that feeling than I am of getting ride of all my weight!
I eat a lot of yogurt and peanut butter and crackers right now. I am
able to get in some meat occationally. Last night I ate half of a
lean quisine with chicken and mashed potatos. It had 22 grams of
protein and was low fat. I THINK that is pretty good!!!! I had to
force the last few bites down because the tummy grumbling was being
especially irritating. I also drink 1 protein drink a day. I am
finding drinking skim milk feels pretty good also. It gets rid of
the "I am starving feeling" It even tastes good. I was NOT a big
milk drinker before which is wierd. I am getting SICK of those sweet
no calarie drinks like chrystal light! I am drinking mostly just
plain water. I like to suck on ice also (we have good ice chips at
the hospital I work at!) I also like taco bell beans and I like
bacon bean soup and lentil soups. I am tired of chicken soups!!!!!
What is really strange is I can NOT eat anything that is really
sweet! I get really neauseated and funny feeling. I could swear it
is a kind of dumping syndrome, but I keep reading that DS patients
don't get that! WIERD!!! But I guess that is actually pretty good
because I don't really eat any candy or sweets. I have found I like
to eat a dill pickle sometimes though! I can't eat much bread either
or pasta because I get a bubbly feeling that is not nice in my
tummy!
I am working full time and that is going fine. I get pretty tired
and cranky after a 12 hour shift (I do 3 a week) so I usually just
come right home and go to bed. I AM sleeping better now than before
surgery which is very nice. I am still feeling some depression and a
strange inability to concentrate for long times. I am assuming that
is probably from anesthesia still in my system. I still don't want
to go out much or mingle. People in general really irritate me most
the time right now. I am kind of antisocial! I HOPE that goes
away. I hate being cranky and feeling irritated with people. I get
pretty cranky at my kids lately which makes me feel really really
bad! I love my kids, but they sure are full of energy. I have NO
extra energy right now. I find that I have much less patience with
my patients and their families at work also. I hate feeling so
cranky!!!! Maybe I need to take more zoloft??? Maybe my body is not
absorbing it all????? I don't want to over do it though. I was
really really hoping to be one of those patients who gets to go OFF
or at least decrease their meds after surgery.
Well....I have rambled enough as usual. I hope nobody feel asleep
reading this LOOOOOONG post.
Thanks for everyones support!
Robin G
DS 10/26/04
249/220/130ish
down 29 pounds in 4 weeks!

Well of course not. The initial reason I haven't mailed it was because I can't
bring myself to mail a flat rate box that isn't totally full. Then.. Penny gave
me some great ideas on how I can fill the space, but I haven't had a chance to
get it all together yet. Now.. the reason is you saying something about me not
being sweet??????????? I just may save time AND money!
Pat
Sharon Buffo <septsweety@...
Very funny!!.... and you still havent mailed them yet? LOL
sharon xoxo

I just love it when you back pedal :)
Pat
Sharon Buffo <septsweety@...
A peanut is not a bad thing. . a Peanut is a cute little thing. . when
my son was hospitalized for pneumonia when he was a baby . .they nicknamed him
Peanut .. I said it in a cute way Pat. . LOL
sharon xoxo

I need help with travel arrangements. I have not flown since I was a
kid and my parents handled everything and they have no idea about
this internet stuff.
I live in eastern Canada and I will be flying from Halifax NS or
Bangor ME on Jan 23-24-25 and returning on Feb 6-7-8.. trying to be
a little flexible.
I have NO IDEA what is the best site to look for tickets and if it
is safe to order tickets this way. How do e-tickets work. Please
help me!!! I am not afraid to fly and I am not afraid of surgery but
booking the flight has me totally stressed. Also if there are any
Canadaians out here.. I know how to get a passport but cant find
info on how to get a Visa.
Thanks in advance for your help!
Lisa

Lets all send toads to Lizanne and see if she kisses her prince
charming..Laughing at the picture of Lizanne "puckered and ready..Talk about
your visuals....LOL.......................
Penny

***This was TOO funny not to share. Us women will know these signs and you men
can learn from them LOLOL enjoy
Sharon xoxo
Ok so this is a letter to the brand manager of Always, a pad brand. This
woman is writing to him about the slogan that they are using on the
wrappers. Read it - she has a way with words.

Monica advocates the WII for exercise...Just ask her..
Penny

Thanks,one more question about security. Does the hotel have a
safe, has anyone ever had anything missing? I wn to bering my
computer and I worry about that.
Myrtice
Leaving on the 3rd of December

Awww!!!!!!!!!!!

I plan to get full body shots from every angle... and will post them here...
someday :)
Pat
lizanneflowers <lizanneflowers@...
Pat,
That would be such a nice thing for you to do. I agree with Sharon
though, get a few full body shots. You have lost and gained weight
before right? Well, this will be the last time you have to go
through all that torture, so take the pics while you can. It is a
great comparison. Just look under the photo section....amazing.
Lizanne

Penny,
On the left of this page you will click on photos. At the top right
side of that page click on create album. You will add photos to your
album by browsing...do you know how to do that? Then you will use
the middle line for each photo to write your own title and the next
for any explanation.
Do you need more help?
Lizanne

Pat,
I have asked about where you are in your journey. I had been away
for a while and lost track of where people were. Last I knew you had
an endoscopy which you were worried about, but things went better
than you thought. And I think you thought your sugery was in Jan.
Do you have to lose weight? Are you still on track for Jan? Are
there other things you will need to do before the big date? Why are
you too embarrassed to post your pic since we all know you anyway?
Is your house still burgundy, blue and green? Oh, well you don't
have to answer that.
Lizanne

Yeah!!! She speaks!!! So glad to see you posting Cheryl .. Your 6 yr old was
adorable LOL (something was wrong w/ his pumpkin and he COULD NOT WAIT to let
mom know) LOL
Keep walking and siping and tell your hubby to get those doritos out of your
face LOL :) whats the doctor got you on as far as diet goes now?
So glad you came thru so well . .:)
sharon xoxo

Im so glad your eye is doing better . .got so caught up in my own life i forgot
about it for a while. . until you gave me the visual of your boobs being tied up
. . then it clicked. . "visual" eye problems LOL oh well . .glad its better..
Im doing ok. . I spotted a little after the D&C and thought i was fine. . then
had a BM yesterday that took some effort and started bleeding again like i broke
something lose .. this was red . .so i am going to keep an eye on it. . if i
feel its too bad . . i will call . .but for now its not . .I see my GYN on the
5th so i will know more then. . I can only assume that if the pathology was real
bad they would call me before then.
Sharon xoxo

Hi Stella,
Yes Doc M does do a leak test a few days post-op before you leave the
hospital.
He staples and double sews the stomach and intestines. In fact you even get
to take your stapler home with you.
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 November 6: 277lbs (BMI 44.7)
Total loss on November 6: -100lbs

I am back. It actually went rather smoothly, now it is time to deal
with my demons. I think everything went so smoothly it does not seem
real to me. I have had a really easy time. I have been walking and
sipping. I take direction very well. But now I look around the house
and it is like "man those doritos look good" and I have to remind
myself that they are no longer allowed. I will be doing okay though.
I am just a little tired. I figure in the next couple of days I will
be out and about again. Thankfully my mother is here. That makes
things much easier. Anyway I just wanted to let everyone know I was
okay and thanks to Sharon for calling and getting my update. We had a
nice conversation in spite of the 6 year old interupting.
Cheryl

Hi,
Being only 1 month post op, I am wondering if I can take
antihistamines? My seasonal allergies are acting up. My nose is
runny and I am sneezing and getting a tickle in my throat. I usually
take suedafed or something like that. Does anyone take that or any
antihistamines? Do you take the normal amount?
Thanks
Robin G
10/26/04

Great story Sharon. Thanks for sharing!
~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

Yes and Yes!
Robin G

Does DR M do the leak test?
Does he double sew the stomach and intestines?
Stella

Yea..that's how I feel. This one's a keeper! :-)
Lisa W
380/169/160
Lap RNY 6.26.06

Robin,
I dont know how i would have missed that but i am so glad your husband is doing
better . .He sounds like a wonderful man to work for the Red Cross and help out.
. You are a lucky woman. . So the doctors feel they have it all now? They are
doing wonderful things now w/ cancer treatments and people are living so much
longer. . I wish the best for you and your family and i pray your hubby stays
healthy and strong.
sharon xoxo

Can you give me an example of questions I have ignored about me? I don't
remember doing that, but if you ask again I will make it a point to answer :)
I guess the answer to why it is that I seemingly ignore questions is that I must
have missed them or maybe just considered them to be rhetorical. I don't recall
ever intentionally ignoring a question.
To answer some of your questions... no, I am not really that vain :)
and no... I can't believe you could ever stop loving me :)
lizanneflowers <lizanneflowers@...
Pat,
Come on...are you really that vain? We all know you now so there
isn't anything to hide. I do notice that when things get personal,
you know questions about YOU, you do totally ignore them. I have
wondered about that a little. Do you want to tell us why that is?
Do you think we will stop loving you? I don't believe your ego is
that fragile. I could be wrong. Tell me dear.
Lizanne

We've gotta be the best damn looking bunch there is! I just checked out
everyone's pics. Look out world...here we come!
I will post my pics shortly. I gotta head out in a few to get my daughter from
her dad's
Lisa W
380/169/160
Lap RNY 6.26.06

Pat,
Come on...are you really that vain? We all know you now so there
isn't anything to hide. I do notice that when things get personal,
you know questions about YOU, you do totally ignore them. I have
wondered about that a little. Do you want to tell us why that is?
Do you think we will stop loving you? I don't believe your ego is
that fragile. I could be wrong. Tell me dear.
Lizanne

Hi Lisa,
Wendy's Chili is a staple of my diet right now too. I can seldom make it
through more than 1/2 of a small chili, but its so cheap I just toss the
rest and get another one when I want it. I wish it had more protein but its
not bad in that department.
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 November 6: 277lbs (BMI 44.7)
Total loss on November 6: -100lbs

I went through the faze (sp?) of eating Taco Bell beans every time I
left the house for a couple of weeks. NOW, I can't get enough of
Wendy's Chili! A small one is only 99 cent's and it makes my tummy
SO happy! I love eating so cheap while I'm out! And I am LOVING
Wendy's chili these days!
Also, this morning, I made a batch of Broccoli Cheese soup! YUM!!!
I'm a LITTLE gassy from it, but not too bad! Very hardy and
again....made my tummy very happy.
And for those that are still eating Taco Bell beans with
cheese....Open a can of Ranch Style beans and mush them up and
sprinkle a little cheese on top to melt and then put a couple of
packets of Taco Bell hot sauce on top that you have left over from
all your trips to Taco Bell. It's very satisfying and takes care of
your taco bell craving.
I'm FINALLY getting my taste back for iced tea! I used to LOVE LOVE
LOVE iced tea and we had 2 pitchers going in the refrigerater at all
times. Since my surgery, I haven't had any desire for it until the
last several days. It's tasting wonderful again! So, I'm drinking
more liquid and enjoying one of my favorite treats.
OH MY GOSH...Oprah's FAVORITE THINGS is on today!! It's always AN
AWESOME show to watch! Guys, I know that little tidbit of
information was certainly one that you've been sitting on pins and
needles waiting for!!!
Laundry is calling my name...I'm almost finished!! Monday is a LONG
laundry day!
Lisa
-45
7weeks post op!!