Weight loss

Wow Alex... that must have been scary. Do you know what it measured on the
Richter scale??
Pat
astrabinick <astrabinick@...
I'm still shaking in my boots. This was the longest lasting one for me
pretty scary stuff I'm at work. Had to do a server check make sure no
machines fell off their racks. I was on the phone with my wife when it
happened. Usually their very little tremors this time the whole floor
felt like waves going up and down. Judy and Beth you guys ok.
Alex

Welcome to the group Kay .. ask away . .My parents and one of my sisters
lives in SC.....Tega Cay and Rock Hill. . near Charlotte. . I was born in
Gastonia, NC.. . i just love Calif tho LOL
sharon xoxo

I'm still shaking in my boots. This was the longest lasting one for me
pretty scary stuff I'm at work. Had to do a server check make sure no
machines fell off their racks. I was on the phone with my wife when it
happened. Usually their very little tremors this time the whole floor
felt like waves going up and down. Judy and Beth you guys ok.
Alex

WooHoo! Good luck! See ya on the other side!
Robin G

Lizanne,
That sounds like a lot of fun . .they have water arobics at my gym too and i
might start doing that soon ..
sharon xoxo

Hi all,
This is it! I am ready and eager to start my trip. I had a short
note from Dr. M. that Ana and Durval will meet my flight. That made
it SO REAL. I've had lunch with my friends, spoken to all my
relatives, arranged all the phone calls. I've got someone to water
my plants and get the mail. I'm packed and excited.
Reading all the posts and hearing all the issues you are alface
daily,brings the reality to me and then some. I am feeling prepared
and ready to wake up the day after surgery. I realize that I am
changing my life in a significant way and that this is the trade-off
to be able to remain in this world. Without this surgery I would not
make another year.
Since I am single I sent a letter to my middle son with the final
information he might need if something should happen. That is the
reality too. Yet, I KNOW in my heart that my outcome will be
successful. It's worth every minute and the sacrifice to be
fortunate enough to have found Dr. Marchesini through good people
like yourselves. And I deserve it. Indeed I do! I can do so much
more in the next 15 years and I want every minute of it.
When I come home and I kvetch (Yiddish word for complain) at all, I
will remind myself that I am one of the lucky ones! Many people
cannot afford to save their own lives even with the nominal price of
$12,000 for this surgery.
So I thank you all.
I send blessings to all.
I will post to you as soon as I am back in the hotel.
See ya later
Patrice
Austin TX - a beautiful place ROBIN!! With trees and hills.
Surgery 7:30 12/14/04

Hi Kay! Welcome!!
Dawn in PA
Lap RNY 06/27/07
305/278/195/140
HW/SW/CW/GW

classsi_fied <bjrfromwa@...
"Austin and San Antonio are 2 of my fave U.S. cities."
Gosh, Joanne, you should move to San Marcos then... we're just a thirty minute
drive to either San Antonio or Austin. Smack dab between them!
(And, Robin, we have trees, hills, and a beautiful, pristine river! Sounds like
you've been driving across the armpit of Texas... the panhandle!)
Nina

I resent my email this evening. Hopefully I will hear something soon.
Pam

1. Name: Kay Walrath (granskay)
2. City and State: Seneca, South Carolina
3. E-mail Address: granskay@...
4. Are you: Considering Surgery, Pre-Op or Post-Op: Pre-op
5. Date of WLS: 12/3/07
6. Surgeon¢s Name and Location: Dr. Horwitz, SC
7. Type of Surgery: RNY
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): Tricare
11. Birthdate: 4/19/43
12. Occupation: Retired J
13. Married or Single (if married what is your spouse¢s name?): Married for 35
years to Chuck
14. Do you have children? If so, what are their names? Yes, 2 children, 5
grandchildren, 2 step-grandchildren
15. Hobbies: boating, fishing, camping, gardening, living a Christian life
16. Anything else you would like to share with other members: I am 64 yrs old,
diabetic, high bp, gout, restless legs, high cholestral and some other things.
i am praying that having this surgery will get rid of them, so that I can enjoy
the rest of my life better.I am interested in support groups to help us also. I
am excited when i read some very interesting weight loss stories., and some are
almost unbelievable.
~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

My husband is a DIE HARD Cowboys fan. Win or Lose, he loves them.
I hate driving through Texas...Sorry!!!! It is way too big and NO
TREES (at least not where I have been) Nothing but cotton fields,
oil drills and dirt. Though My mother in law grew some really nice
pecans! The bugs there are HUGE! The people there are very nice
too.
Robin

i was born in El Paso, lived in Galveston, Houston, Kemah, Seabrook,
Waco,& Killeen.
Austin and San Antonio are 2 of my fave U.S. cities.
hugs.
joanne

He also lived in Sweetwater. His mother lived in a little town
called Throckmorten also which is VERY small. Texas is such an
interesting place with all its little towns and watering holes. I
have never lived there though.
Robin

My shoes are all too big now also! My socks are easier to put on too.
My wedding ring fits and I can take it off and on now also.
Now...I don't know about hats though. I don't wear them much. I
can't afford for my brain to shrink! I hope I don't lose anything up
there! HHEHEHE!!
Robin G

Your husband was raised in Lubbock? Tell him hello from Nina raised in
Littlefield. Littlefield is, well, let's just say it is well-named!
:)
Nina (who got out of Littlefield as soon as she could.)
Robin <jkrdrmom@...
Hey! We should have a place here where we can keep recipies for good
stuff we can eat! I am going to try that taco soup as soon as I find
some of those ranch beans. My husband LOVES those beans since he was
raised in Lubbock TX. But I have not seen them lately here in St.
Louis. I am going to look around though.
I would be nice to have more EASY recipes for DS friendly meals
though.
Robin G Who really HATES to cook!

Robin <jkrdrmom@...
I am soooo bad! I haven't even STARTED to take calcium yet. I have enough
trouble swollowing my multivitamins and my meds still.
Well, girl, better start taking them!! I got my six month labs back, and my
body is already robbing my bones for calcium! I kept putting it off... and then
since I started the calcium it has been the most difficult thing for me to
remember because it has to be done throughout the day!
Get on the stick! (Yeah, right, I'm one to talk!)
Nina

I'm so bummed that she is feeling so badly. She is such a great person and I
wish she didn't have so many challenges.
I sent her an e-mail privately and tried to encourage her.
~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

Hi Lisa,
Yah they are rather big pills. I usually have to wait 10 minutes or so
between pills. Sure it would be simpler to just swallow tablets, but I just
can't swallow pills. The chewables are more easier and taste better than
the liquids. Hopefully one day I'll be able to switch to pills.
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

REGARDING ALLY SENDING ME THE PROTEIN BULLETS:
Ally,
There's no rush on the protein bullets. My mother in law bought me
enough for a month. I really appreciate the offer though. If you do
get a chance to drop them in the mail, that would be SO helpful.
Thanks again for doing that.
REGARDING ZOLOFT:
I'm already on 200mg a day which is a pretty high dose. I have a
physical next Friday, so I'll talk with my primary care then. I
don't currently have a psychiatrist, but if my PCP thinks I need to
see one, then I will. I used to see a psychiatrist and my PCP just
took over when my insurance wouldn't cover her any more. My
psychiatrist always told me that I really do have a chemical
inbalance and that I didn't need counseling. I figure we get enough
family counseling and counseling with and without the kids, that
should suffice. I really do think that my body's not absorbing all
the zoloft. I'll make it til my appointment though. Thanks for all
your concern.
Sheggy/Shannon

Hi Deidre,

Hi Judy!
How often is this happening to you? It almost sounds like GERD.
I've never been diagnosed with it, so I don't know first hand what
it's like, but I know others have had it. Perhaps they can help you.
Sorry I couldn't help!
Dawn in PA
Lap RNY 06/27/07
305/278/195/140
HW/SW/CW/GW

That's awesome! It's great to find something that you love - you'll
be more likely to keep it up. AND it's great exercise! It'll get
you in really good shape. Good for you!
Dawn in PA
Lap RNY 06/27/07
305/278/195/140
HW/SW/CW/GW

Judy-
It sounds to me like it is reflux. Have you had a barium swallow yet as part of
your pre-op screening? they would be able to tell if you had a reflux problem
by doing that test, and most surgeons do require it prior to surgery.
Other than that it sounds like you have the problem of your doctors not really
listening to the words that are coming out of your mouth. If they're giving you
something for the problem that doesn't work then suggest they try something else
or up your dose. Nexium is supposed to work to soothe the lining of the
esohphagus and not just calm the reflux like Prevacid and Prilosec. If you
don't mind me asking, what dose of Prilosec are you taking now?
Also, some time ago I heard of people taking Papaya Enzyme for acid reflux. I
have used it myself in lieu of rolaids and gotten good results. I ordered mine
from Puritans Pride website. It's an all natural alternative that you may want
to check out.
~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! We should have a place here where we can keep recipies for good
stuff we can eat! I am going to try that taco soup as soon as I find
some of those ranch beans. My husband LOVES those beans since he was
raised in Lubbock TX. But I have not seen them lately here in St.
Louis. I am going to look around though.
I would be nice to have more EASY recipes for DS friendly meals
though.
Robin G Who really HATES to cook!

Dawn,
I love the class. I am not an exerciser kind of person. Never have
been. Usually, if I try to make an effort, like at Curves or
something similar, first I dread going there and then once I am
there, I hope it hurries up so that I can get out of there. The
water aerobics is so much fun. There is anywhere from 6-13 of us and
the teacher, who is 70 years old, gets us all going. We laugh half
the time and tease each other, not meanly. I can't believe that the
class actually lasts an hour. It seems much less than that and I get
there 20 minutes early just to hang out with other early arrivers. I
know I am more flexible than when I started on Oct 2. Plus, I get to
play in a pool after September. I know you Florida ladies and some
California people, oh yeah, and the Texas people get to do that
anyhow, but not me. It is actually fun, AND exercise....who would
have ever thunk?
Lizanne

Hey Lizanne,
Thanks for letting us know about Cat. I've been thinking about her
as well. I'm so sorry she's having such trouble.
I thought I had her email address, but I don't. Can you email it to
me?
Thanks!
Dawn in PA
Lap RNY 06/27/07
305/278/195/140
HW/SW/CW/GW

Man Nina! You have lost a lot of weight. You are lookin good!
Robin

Can someone please give me the web address for the Photo Annex. I
must have accidently erased it. Thanks
Deidre

Hello Friends-
I have just finished uploading all of the recipe files I've been working on over
the past week.
To view them look under the files section in the folder called "WLS Recipes"
~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

3rd time I am posting this. No clue what is wrong.

Okay ya'll! I got the Chewable multi's and my chewable calciums
delivered today! They are GARGANTUIOUS!! ENORMOUSLY HUGE!! I have
to break them up into two pieces each to put it into my mouth and
chew it up. I will take these until they are gone...which at 8 per
day of the Calcium, won't be very long. They are so big...I can't
take on a full stomach because they are like having LUNCH just
chewing these thing up! I just wonder ONE MORE THING. IT'S not
possible to just take regular multi vitamins and pop it in your mouth
and swallow it whole is it? Are there any that disolve fast enough
that I could do that? I didn't do too well at first with the tablets
because I assume that you HAVE to break it up into pieces and when
they have the jagged edges like that, it hurts going down. I want to
take a vitamin and pop them into my mouth and take a drink and
swallow! Does ANYONE do that? I know that sounds too simple, but
it's worth a shot! THANKS! Man David! You rock being able to chew
all these vitamins and swallow them and KEEP at it for as long as you
have! I can do it until they are gone, but I'm concerned about being
comfortable with a vitamin regimen enough that I know I'll stick with
it for the next 45 years!! Just trying to find my nitch.
Lisa
-50 I love that!
262/212/140
I can't WAIT to go clothes shopping for CUTE CLOTHES!!!

Lizanne,
It is so exciting to hear that you are in Onederland. It does not matter the
exact number of pounds - you made that huge milestone. I hope to be there
really soon too...I have 15 pounds.
Keep up the great work!
Lisa
lizanneflowers <lizanneflowers@...
Hi All,
I am so excited. Tues & Thurs I go to water aerobics AND I weigh
myself before the class. Today is a special day because I AM IN ONE-
DERLAND!! YIPPEE!!. I can hardly believe that I have lost 53 lbs in 2
1/2 months. I don't think I have ever lost over 50 lbs. I am so proud
of myself, in a way. The celebration isn't quite as big, since I
really didn't do it myself. I almost HAVE to lose weight with the
surgery, and there isn't nearly as much disapline as there was before
the surgery. But I can still be proud, right? Do any of you who have
lost weight almost feel like, well...of course I lost weight, what
choice did I have once I had the surgery. It almost isn't much of an
accomplishment. And then I start thinking...did I really lose 53 lbs,
or is it only 43 lbs, because of not having a good scale weight to
begin with. They weighed me IN BED the day after surgery to come up
with the 53 lbs. AND even worse, if I hadn't quit smoking it probably
would have been only 32 lbs. I sure know how to burst my own bubble,
don't I. Let me think about this some more.....
Lizanne
Lisa
284/271/217/135

Robin,
Like anyone who has dealt with any kind of addiction, you have a devil
sitting on your shoulder that is urging you to do wrong, telling you it
won't hurt, begging and pleading for you to give in "just one more time."
Giving in to this devil is why addicts stay addicts. And is probably one of
the reasons that some people's surgery does not "work." No, I think the
surgery works...the patient didn't.
How to get over it? Learn to recognise your triggers - figure out when and
where you are most susceptible and stay away from those environments and
situations until you get control. This could mean giving yourself time
outs, to having hubby do the grocery shopping because it causes you too much
distress.
Find different rewards to give yourself. And DON'T SKIMP! You are just as
deserving as your husband and children.
And be prepared. Why did you go into Sam's Club starving? If you had eaten
properly before, you could have resisted that hot dog.
Overcoming addiction - to anything - is hard. As you replace your old
habits with new, positive habits....that devil's voice will grow weaker and
weaker.
Pam

Lisa,
Made the soup late last night, put in the fridge and will have it tonite. I am
sure it will be great. I make an awesome chili myself, but its nice to try
other recipes.
Kathy B in KC

Hi,
I am having a hard time with this stuff. I just can not eat
comfortably. I know I need to be more patient and wait, but I am
getting really depressed. I have a lot of "stuff" going on at home
with DH and with finances, plus I am busy working and dealing with
kids and trying to do holiday planning etc......
I went to Sam's club today. Got a hotdog because I was STARVING. It
is one of those things you just DO when you go there. They have
great hotdogs. I took 2 bites and....YUCK! it was just not the same
anymore. Did not feel good in my tummy either.
I go by tons of food that normally, I would have LOVED to try and I
just can NOT eat anything! I eat basically soup and yogurt with some
bites of protein here and there. I am missing being able to eat
things like a big fat old hamberger or tacos or pizza or CHOCOLATE or
ice cream etc..... Nothing sits well so I just pass it all up. Even
just a few bites would satisfy, but I can't even do that. I feel so
stupid whining about it. I wan to lose this weight so badly that I
had my body surgically altered and NOW I whine about it!!!!!
I guess I am having a hard time dealing with the fact that I can not
use food to medicate myself anymore. I have to find some other way
to deal with stress and depression. I just am not dealing with those
things well right now.
I do see a therapist regularly and I am taking my zoloft, which makes
my tummy feel terrible for a while after I take it. All the vitamins
and meds I take make me feel funny for a while after I take them. It
is like they are bubbling around in my stomach trying to find a place
to go.
I feel like such a big baby right now! I have so many fewer problems
than those who have had serious complications with their surgery. I
should just be happy I am alive and losing weight!
I feel very isolated right now. I can't turn to food and I don't
know what to do instead. I hope I didn't trade my obesity for a
lifetime of missing food so much I feel lost. Neither is a very nice
way to live, but at least with obesity I was familiar with it.
I don't ever remember NOT using food for comfort. It has always been
a huge part of life with my family and with myself. I feel like I
have lost a best friend, but at the same time I feel like I have
escaped from jail also. STRANGE! I am so happy to be losing weight
and getting healthy! I am so sad that I can't eat anything I want to
without feeling yucky!
OK....I am done whining for now. Thanks
Robin G
DS 10/26/04
249/214/130's OH! I cheated and weighted myself today and am now
down 35 pounds so at least THAT is positive news.

It is odd, isn't it? But I'm happy that we're all so close. I love
the friendly banter, the joking around as well as the serious
support.
One of the girls at work wants me to go to her support group. I
told her I would try to go, but really didn't feel I needed anything
more on a regular basis than what we have here.
Dawn in PA
Lap RNY 06/27/07
305/278/195/140
HW/SW/CW/GW

I can get them in Miami and Mexican or Tex-Mex cuisine isn't exactly hot down
heere.
Carole
Kelly Lautenbach <klautenbach1@...
They can't be too hard to get- I can even get them in Nebraska! LOL : )
-Kelly

dawn,
It's the truth. This group helps us before the surgery, the days
surrounding the surgery, and after the surgery when we actually need
the most encouragement. My brother said I wouldn't need you after
the surgery, and I think he feels that way because he just had the
live support group that is an hour away. This group in almost
unconditionally helpful. That is rare for a bunch of people who
never met. Odd, but I'm happy with it.
Lizanne

Here, here! Absolutely fabulous job, Ally! Thank you!
Dawn in PA
Lap RNY 06/27/07
305/278/195/140
HW/SW/CW/GW

I found the ranch style beans at the grocery last night. Probably been there
all my life. It's just something I have never purchased or looked for. On the
very bottom shelf of the beans section.
Kathy B in KC

Hi Sue!
Welcome!
Dawn in PA
Lap RNY 06/27/07
305/278/195/140
HW/SW/CW/GW

Well, folks, I added some before and after pics to the annex in
a "Nina Wright" folder. Still hate to look at photos of me... but I
sure did like to see photos of others when I was contemplating
surgery and wondering if I could be so successful as those I saw.
So here's my bit. Hopefully I will get better looking after a few
more pounds and plastic surgery--although I am already very happy
with how I feel!!
:)
Nina

Here is some info on Ro-Tel tomatoes.
http://www.ro-tel.com/pages/index_flash.html
(BTW, there is a band in Texas called Ro-Tel and the Hot Tomatoes)
Becca

Hi Jenn!
Welcome!
Dawn in PA
Lap RNY 06/27/07
305/278/195/140
HW/SW/CW/GW

Rotel is used in Tex-Mex cooking. Rotel is not just tomatoes, but rather it
is tomatoes and green chilies which makes all of the difference. Rotel
comes in Original, Mexican, Extra Hot, Chili Fixins, Chunky and it used to
come in Italian but I don't think that it does any longer. They are very
different from our regular canned tomatoes, and I am not sure whether they
are easy to get in most areas. Kathy

They can't be too hard to get- I can even get them in Nebraska! LOL : )
-Kelly

I hope you make it there, Lizanne! It's an awesome feeling! How is
your water aerobics class? That sounds like a lot of fun.
Dawn in PA
Lap RNY 06/27/07
305/278/195/140
HW/SW/CW/GW

Hi Lizanne!
The Celestial Seasonings packets on the go are really, really good.
I hope you find them in your local supermarket. I saw them in the
tea aisle.
I'm doing good, thanks! Went back to work and was a little tired,
but eventually was getting stronger. Then I had a gallbladder
attack, and then another one, etc etc. Two and a half months after
the bypass I had to have my gallbladder out. That surgery kicked my
butt! *L* There was a lot of puking before and after surgery, so I
was really dehydrated and weak. I survived, though! And now I'm
doing great. I've got more energy than I know what to do with. My
son is loving every moment that I'm home cause we're always doing
something.
How are you doing? It sounds like you're doing SOOO much better!
I'm so happy to hear that. We were so worried about you for a long
time.
Dawn in PA
Lap RNY 06/27/07
305/278/195/140
HW/SW/CW/GW

Hi Dariece!
Welcome!
Dawn in PA
Lap RNY 06/27/07
305/278/195/140
HW/SW/CW/GW

Cute little girl Kim is she yours?
sharon xoxo

Have you tried the ADEK's???
Konstantin
Hello Everyone,
Finally after much waiting (and having to redo the test) my vitamin A levels
have come back. They are low so the doc who is filling in for my PCP (who
is in Iraq right now) wants me to start taking Vitamin A supplements.
I am still not having any luck with swallowing pills so I am looking for a
chewable vitamin A (or Vit A and D). Does anyone have any recommendations?
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

Hello Everyone,
Finally after much waiting (and having to redo the test) my vitamin A levels
have come back. They are low so the doc who is filling in for my PCP (who
is in Iraq right now) wants me to start taking Vitamin A supplements.
I am still not having any luck with swallowing pills so I am looking for a
chewable vitamin A (or Vit A and D). Does anyone have any recommendations?
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

      Hello Everyone
I just wanted to touch base to let you all know im still here
we carved the pumpkin today with my niece It was nice :)
I hope everyone has a good happy halloween
i filmed the carving lol
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G4v-fhQg59M
the lady is my mom
Here's ways to get ahold of me
Chat with me:
My Multi-Page
http://kg77.multiply.com/
My Blog
http://kimberly-goddard.blogspot.com/
My Website:
http://www.angelfire.com/nj3/KymmiesPlace\
MYSPACE PAGE
http://www.myspace.com/my_quiet_lil_world
MSN: kimgoddard77@...
Ypager: kimberlygoddard77
ICQ:291-683-088
1-973-293-3583
1-973-437-7168

It sounds like a suture. If you can, I would take it out.
Becca

i agree Lizanne,
Ally has taken this group and ran with it and its growing and doing wonderful .
.like i said .. i think we have the cream of the crop here .. :)
sharon xoxo

Thanks George! I will try just keeping it clean and dry for now. I
don't think it is out enough to try to pull on (ouch anyhow!)
Robin G

I don't think I would love my life so much now if I hadn't raised a family,
worked for 40+ years, been married for 34 years, etc. I had a full life and
feel I've earned the right to live the way I want now. I conformed to
society long enough. I thoroughly enjoyed doing it....don't get me
wrong....I adore my 3 grandsons, etc. but it is fun to be able to live by
impulse rather than the clock and someone else's desires. If I get lonely I
pick up the phone and tell my daughter I need a baby fix or call a girl
friend. If I want the senior center is a mile away. But staying home and
saying manana to chores is also nice. W

Ally,
Once again I just want to comment on how much you have done since we
started our group together. There is so much reference info, and
calendar events, and reminders, along with recipes and welcome
letters and polls. Do you ever get any real work done? Thanks Ally
for your commitment. I am sure that everyone would agree that you
have done a wonderful job.
Lizanne

Pam...I wanted to say, too, that I never heard from Dr. M either, for
a week or so and the group said that THAT may be a problem. So I

Hi,
I noticed today there is a little tiny bubble, about the size of a
zit about 2 inches from the top of my incision. It had a tiny head
which popped when I touched it. Before I touched it, I saw an even
tinier black dot under the head of the bubble. Do you think that was
a suture? Should I just leave it alone? Anyone else have a suture
start migrating out of your incision?
It has been 5 weeks, I don't think it is infected or opening. I
don't think it is a saroma. It was very small really just like a zit
and the fluid that came out was light in color. Now the spot looks
like it is forming a very tiny scab. It is reddish, purpleish and
still about the size of a small zit.
I didn't really describe it very well. Sorry! I does not hurt, I
put some antibiotic ointment on it and a small 2X2. This is the
first time in about 2 weeks I have had to cover my incision. It has
been open to air before.
What do you think? Any ideas? I should know this since I am a
nurse, but I really don't follow the patients after they leave labor
and delivery, so I don't see many incisions weeks after the surgery.
Thanks
Robin G
10/26/04

Sharon,
I am so sorry for your loss. My dog of 11 yrs died of cancer last Monday. It
was really rough because the dog stays with my mom in Mississippi (I am in
Illinois) and I haven't seen her since Christmas. It is really bad on my mom
because we lost my dad and her brother to cancer in 2005 and now the dog that
was like one of her kids died from cancer too. I will keep you in my prayers.
Hope you feel better soon...
Becca

Gosh you ladies are a bunch of WILD WOMEN!! I LOVE that! I'm way
too modest to not wear a bra! My boobs have shrunk from a nice sized
D already to probably small C's and will probably shrink down to
saggy large A's before it's all over with. I ALWAYS wear a bra! I
could never leave the house without a bra! I'm afraid someone will
see me if I go to the MAILBOX with no bra on! I wear bras at home
always in case someone comes to visit or if the UPS man brings a
delivery! (I order online and ebay alot) I need to get out more!
Maybe someday when I have a hot new body, I'll go braless somewhere
and turn my husband on! Then again, he'll make me go back in the
house and put on a bra! LOL
Lisa

My goodness Wendy....before your post, I thought....MAN what lonely
nights! Now after reading your post, I'm thinking....WHAT a
beautiful life! It does sound wonderful! Course I love MY life and
wouldn't trade it for the world, but I'm also a believer that if you
don't absolutely LOVE what your doing, then you need to change it.
You always have youself SO pulled together and even something so
chaotic as staying up all night, you've turned into a beautiful,
peaceful, wonderful place! You are an amazing woman!
Lisa
262/213/140
9 weeks post op tomorrow

Ally,
I do hope you hear from her soon. . Im hoping that everything went well .
SHENISE!! CAN YOU HEAR US???? CALL ALLY!!!! YOUR ANGEL!!!
sharon xoxo

Cheryl! You have been out of surgery for 5 or 6 days now. It's time for you to
get with the program! What...you mean your stamina isn't back at 100% yet? I
don't understand!? hehe...
Have you run any more laps around Wal-Mart in the last couple days?
~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

Just as an FYI...
I created a daily reminder for Water and Vitamins. There is a M,W,F reminder
for exercise and a once a month reminder for "do something to love yourself."
Thanks for the input!
~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

The following WeightLossSurgeryFS poll is now closed. Here are the
final results:
POLL QUESTION: What topics would you like to see in daily reminders? (Choose as
many as you like)
CHOICES AND RESULTS
- Take your Vitamins!, 3 votes, 27.27%
- Drink Your Water!, 5 votes, 45.45%
- Don't forget your exercise!, 3 votes, 27.27%
- Other: Send your idea to allisonmarie22@..., 0 votes, 0.00%
For more information about this group, please visit

Oh my gosh, I can't believe our little group is growing so quickly.
There are so many new members I can't even keep up. Maybe in the the
next couple of weeks as I gain some stamina I will have the time to
get to know everyone. But WELCOME TO THE FAMILY everyone, this is a
great group. I love it. It has helped me a lot.
Cheryl

I have a girl friend in London who loves that she can telephone or IM me
when she gets up in the morning. I have always been a night person with a
body clock working against the rest of the world. For 40+ years I would
work hard to be asleep by 2-3am and had to get up at 6am and nearly died of
exhaustion. But even though every morning I swore I would go to bed early
that night I would be wide awake at midnight and tried everything for
Melatonin, sleeping pills, Nyquil or anything else I could find to help my
sleep and switched off as much as possible to avoid addictions. I'd sleep
half the day on weekends and would be miserable cause that gave me little
time to do things with the girls so I would force myself to get up. My
father, his sister, their mother and everyone on that side of the family
have all been night people. My aunt is 99 and I swear still never sleeps.
My older daughter is 40 and she also is beginning to be like her mother.
She lives in CA and knows she can call me at 1-2 am her time if she can't
sleep without worrying about waking me. Retirement was a boon. Now that I
live alone I can finally learn to listen to my body. I learned how to eat
when hungry and stop when full. I learned to sleep when tired and get up
without an alarm when I was ready to wake. It is absolute heaven.
Traditionally I am in bed anywhere between 4-6am although last night I went
to bed early (3:15am) and sometimes it is as late as 8am. Not often because
I hate that. It ruins the sleep the following night cause then I never get
tired. Generally whenever I go to bed I sleep 3 solid hours and then the
bathroom starts calling. The second three hours I am up and down and after
the 2nd or 3rd bathroom trip I stay up. My one DS complaint is whether
awake or asleep the BM's start around 8am and go on and off for several
hours before they stop. So I average 5-6 hours of sleep and usually am up
by about 11am or so.
As to what do I do? Usually 3+ hours of computer, a DVD, read, talk on the
phone to people who know that is the best time to find me willing to talk,
pay bills, putter and do the things most people do day time, television news
and the morning newspaper arrives about 3:30 am so I am probably the only
one who knows my paper person. Read about half the paper before bed. I
absolutely love my schedule and can't imagine ever wanting to live with
anyone ever again. The thought of having to fix food because someone else
is hungry is awful. When I go to bed I set the TV sleep timer for about
30-40 minutes and the thought of having to go to bed in quiet cause someone
else is there sounds even worse. After living traditionally for 64 years I
can finally be ME. W

Hi Guys-
I'm sure you've all noticed that we've acquired quite a few new members over the
last few days. Please take a moment to welcome them all. They're all in
various stages of the process and need our support!
We're over 40 members now! I'm excited.
As always, if you have any comments or suggestions please feel free to let
Lizanne or myself know!
~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

Hi Dariece-
Feel free to ask us any questions you can think of. We have all had so many
experiences and I'm sure someone can offer advice! :)
~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

Ha! I had the same reaction! "What do you mean 'what is Ranch Style Beans'?"
That's like saying "What is a hamburger?" Guess we need to get out of Texas
once in awhile.
:)
Nina Wright
Lisa Cooper <lcooperett@...
Everyone doesn't have Ranch Style Beans? That's what they are
called...written real big on the front of the can. The brand in
fact, is "Ranch Style". They are seasoned pinto beans. In fact, I
smash them up when I want refried beans because they already have the
seasoning in them that makes them taste like seasoned refried beans.
A couple of cans of pinto beans should work if you don't have them.
OH MY GOSH, ONE MORE THING I FORGOT IN THE SOUP. A CAN OF CHOPPED
GREEN CHILI'S!! ADD THAT TO THE RECIPE. I'M SORRY I FORGOT THAT!
Lisa

Hello Everyone-
I just wanted to let you all know that I still have not been able to make
contact with Shenise. Everyone please remember to keep her in your prayers.
I'm sure all went well with her surgery yesterday, but hopefully she will get my
voicemails and check in with me soon.
~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

Welcome Jennifer Lynn! What a pretty name! Thank you for joining us. Our
surgiversarys are only 10 days apart!!
~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

Hi Dawn-
I'm so happy you decided to join us! I hope you like it here. :)
~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

RO*TEL has been a tradition in the southwest since the early 1940's. That's
when Carl
Roettele opened a small family canning plant in Elsa, Texas. Starting with
flavorful tomatoes,
he added chopped green chili peppers and a special blend of spices to create
a sensational taste.
Figuring no one would be able to spell or pronounce Roettele, he used the
name RO*TEL on
his products. Although they canned 25,000 cases of vegetables a year,
Roettele and his wife were
most proud of their tomatoes and green chilies. Their pride was justified
for it wasn't long before
RO*TEL Tomatoes and Green Chilies were gracing the tables of public figures
and politicians
throughout Texas.
Originally, RO*TEL Tomatoes and Green Chilies were only shipped as far away
as San Antonio,
Houston and Dallas. By 1956, they had made their way to Oklahoma and
Arkansas. Then, in
1963, the wife of a popular politician in Washington bragged to a national
magazine about her
recipe for homemade chili. She revealed to them the secret ingredient that
made her chili better
than anyone else's-RO*TEL Tomatoes and Green Chilies. Since then, RO*TEL,
with its zesty
flavor, has been the secret ingredient that's made ordinary recipes come
alive.

1. Name: Sue
2. City and State: Goffstown, NH
3. E-mail Address: Sallen5339@...
4. Are you: Considering Surgery, Pre-Op or Post-Op: Post-Op
5. Date of WLS: 10/18/07
6. Surgeons Name and Location: Dr. Campbell, (a surgeon in her own right but
also connected to the Obesity Treatment Center) in Manchester, NH
7. Type of Surgery: Lap RNY
8. Highest Pre-Surgery Weight: 279
9. Insurance or Self-Pay: Insurance
10. What is the name of the insurance company that covered your WLS (if
applicable): Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield
11. Birthdate: 10/27/1955
12. Occupation: Human Service Program Coordinator
13. Married or Single (if married what is your spouses name?): Separated
....Frank is my hasband
14. Do you have children? If so, what are their names? 6 of'em......,
Jen-34, Jon-30, Melissa-24 , Joe-18 and twins Kate and Ryan-17.
15. Hobbies: See above, lol.actually in Grad school working on second
Masterslove to read
16. Anything else you would like to share with other members:
Lap RNY

Yummy canned mexican style tomatoes- you'll find them in the Mexican food
section or with the other tomato style canned items : ) They're great in
velveeta cheese for a yummy dip too! : )
-Kelly

1. Name: Dariece
2. City and State: Salt Lake City, UT
3. E-mail Address: Dariece@...
4. Are you: Considering Surgery, Pre-Op or Post-Op: Considering Surgery
5. Date of WLS: N/A
6. Surgeon¢s Name and Location: Sherman Smith, SLC, UT
7. Type of Surgery:
8. Highest Pre-Surgery Weight: 340+ because my scale stops at 340.
9. Insurance or Self-Pay: Insurance
10. What is the name of the insurance company that covered your WLS (if
applicable): Empire Blue Cross
11. Birthdate: 5/19/1954
12. Occupation: Management
13. Married or Single (if married what is your spouse¢s name?): Married to Don
14. Do you have children? If so, what are their names? 1 son, Cameron
15. Hobbies: Knitting, cross stitch, reading, did I mention knitting?
16. Anything else you would like to share with other members: Scared spitless.
The more I learn, the more I realize I don't know anything about this surgery,
or what to expect post op.

Thanks so much as I was wondering if I was the only one who was out of
kilter.

Welcome to the group Sue!!!. . I see you just had your surgery . how are you
feeing?
Sharon xoxo

Hi Deborah,
I haven't worn a bra since last February. Since I need to wear baggy clothes to
cover the stomas, I also wear baggy upper body clothes to cover the saggy (but
little) boobs. Since all my adult life I had big, ugly saggy boobs, my wish is
to spend the rest of my life with two fried eggs pinned to a board. I know Dr. C
doesn't like to do plastic surgery until a patient is 18 months out of their
last surgeries and I will need to surgically close these stomas sometime early
next year, it will be about 2 years until I can wear t-shirts (braless), but I
can wait. At my age I can afford to be excentric. In the meantime I've
subscribed to Vogue and have avidly been watching "What Not to Wear" to figure
out what will look good on me. When I wore a 4X, there was such a limited
selection all I could do was cover myself up. Now I can buy attractive stuff -
and I still have more weight to lose plus the 30 pounds or so that Dr. M thinks
I will lose in my tummy tuck. After that, watch out malls!
Carole's on the loose!
Carol
Nightsewer@... wrote:
I had an idea. I never thought of it! I could use the now to big undies to
stuff the now to big bras. AAHHHAAA......Well that could at least make me
FEEL like I have something there. HEHEHE
Deborah Powell
105 pounds gone but not forgotten

Oh, Sharon,
How awful. Pets are so wonderful and just wiggle their ways into our
hearts. Losing them is just so very hard. I had a great black cat,
Spooky, who, when we returned after new years a couple of years ago,
was lying on the floor in the livingroom, dead. It was so sad that
it was hard to bury him, and then to finally feel well enough to get
2 cats to keep us company. I can still remember things about
him....how he licked the icing off a birthday cake when I left the
house once, how he begged for cantaloupe and pickles, and when we ate
popcorn, how he only ate the really yellow ones and left the whiter
colored kernals. Yes, they are wonderful, and it is sad when they
leave us, for whatever reason. I am sorry for your loss, and wish I
could do something to relieve the pain, but I can't. As they say,
time will help.
Lizanne

1. Name: Sue
2. City and State: Goffstown, NH
3. E-mail Address: Sallen5339@...
4. Are you: Considering Surgery, Pre-Op or Post-Op: Post-Op
5. Date of WLS: 10/18/07
6. Surgeon's Name and Location: Dr. Campbell, (a surgeon in her own
right but also connected to the Obesity Treatment Center) in
Manchester, NH
7. Type of Surgery: Lap RNY
8. Highest Pre-Surgery Weight: 279
9. Insurance or Self-Pay: Insurance
10. What is the name of the insurance company that covered your WLS
(if
applicable): Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield
11. Birthdate: 10/27/1955
12. Occupation: Human Service Program Coordinator
13. Married or Single (if married what is your spouse's name?):
Separated ....Frank is my hasband
14. Do you have children? If so, what are their names? 6
of'em......, Jen-34, Jon-30, Melissa-24 , Joe-18 and twins Kate and
Ryan-17.
15. Hobbies: See above, lol.actually in Grad school working on
second Masterslove to read
16. Anything else you would like to share with other members:
Lap RNY

You know Robin it's kind of strange. So many of us look at ourselves in mirrors
after really major weight loss and still see the same fat person we used to be.
I know I am just starting to see bones that have been there for awhile and my
face which all my life I thought was round. Now I know it's a rather longish
oval. We've spent so much of our lives as obese, sometimes I think it takes our
brains some time to catch up with the fact that we're thin. Thin, what a
concept!
Carole
Robin <jkrdrmom@...
Hi Everyone!
I decided to take my measurements today. I am very pleased to say
that in 5 weeks I have lost a total of 34 pounds AND 27 inches!!! I
have gone down a dress size so far. I am getting lots of positive
comments from friends at work, my mother and kids have all noticed
the wt. loss also. I still feel just as fat as always, but I guess
that is all my mind playing with me. I hope I can get over the
feeling fat thing eventually!
I also have found a nice brand of beef jerkey that I am enjoying. It
makes a great snack at work or on the run when I can't get anything
else. I am still having to eat a little something every 2-4 hours.
The jerkey has 0.5g of fat, 3g carbs and 13g protein with 100
calories. Does that sound like a good snack idea? It is one of the
very few things I have found that my stomach tolerates well and my
mouth also likes. Keeping my mouth AND my tummy both happy is often
tricky!
Well....I gotta run do errands. I have off work today and have to
make good use of my time. I hope everyone is having a great day!
Robin
10/26/04
249/215/130's
down 34 pounds and 27 inches in 5 weeks.

Well guys . Yesterday i wish i could do over. . I didnt get much sleep the night
before and i had to get up at 430 to do a med training at 630 for a night shift
employee. I did that fine .. then did my rounds. . and paperwork, but was
dragging my butt so i came home and fell asleep on the couch ...still didnt feel
like i got enough rest but i had to go back down the mountain to do a treatment
on a client and check another client so my hubby decided to drive me to do that.
.
Afterwards we had dinner at a place called the Black Bear diner. . It was great.
. when we drove into our driveway we have 3 cats and the two males are always
out front and ususally scatter as we pull in . .well we are not sure but we
think one of our cats might have been hit by a car or did not move when we went
by . .but we think he was already hurt. . we didnt feel anything in the car. .
we got out of the car and he was yelling and screeching and dragging his back
legs. . its was so hard to watch. . i broke down. . we called the vet and had to
go back down the mountain to take him in . .i called my son Aaron cuz it was
really his cat. . the dammage was too severe for us to do anything . . his
pelvis and back was broken and left leg was shattered. It was very emotional
and we had to put him down last night. . we did not get home till after 10pm ..
and today i still woke up w/ a heavy heart... my son called me and he is still
crying and sad over the loss .. its just such a sad time ... Im sorry if i have
not been supportive or positive or not posted enough ... .now you know why ..
Just not into it. . at this time. .
Sharon xoxo
--
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Welcome to the group Jenn!!! So glad you joined us. .
sharon xoxo

1. Name: Jennifer Lynn
2. City and State: Tennessee
3. E-mail Address: j.lynnmoody@...
4. Are you: Considering Surgery, Pre-Op or Post-Op: Post-op
5. Date of WLS: July 2, 2007
6. Surgeon's Name and Location: Dr.AL Spaw Nashville, TN
7. Type of Surgery: Gastric Bypass
8. Highest Pre-Surgery Weight: 305 lbs.
9. Insurance or Self-Pay: INS.
10. What is the name of the insurance company that covered your WLS
(if
applicable): Cigna
11. Birthdate: May 1, old
12. Occupation: Acqusitions Librarian
13. Married or Single (if married what is your spouse's name?):
Married-- Eric
14. Do you have children? Yes If so, what are their names? Sarai
15. Hobbies: Painting and Drawing
16. Anything else you would like to share with other members:

Lizanne,
Thanks for inviting me to join this group. I'm not always active but I
do read all of the posts and I do like to add my two cents in every
once in awhile! Thanks for the kind words about my uncle. That means
alot to me.
As far as I'm concerned I was never broken I just liked to eat!! I
don't know what she was thinking!
jenn

Shannon-
1) Don't ever apologize for coming to us with support. We ALL have bad days,
and we're here to support you.
2) Maybe you should talk to your doctor about simply upping your dose on Zoloft
if you don't think it's working as well. If the Zoloft worked for you before
surgery then it is most likely going to work now, just isn't absorbing as well
as it was.
3) I'm sure you've noticed that I still haven't sent your bullets. I
promise..my hand raised and everything...that I will send them to you tomorrow.
~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

I appreciate all of your encouragement and wonderful suggestions. I
have checked into a lot of the churches and social services.
Unfortunately we make too much money to qualify. I'm sure a lot of
you know how that goes. Around here a family of four just has a hard
time making it on $32,000 a year. We're talking northern virginia.
But, I was raised here and due to my kids disabilities, the schools
here are the best. Things will get better. We've been here before.
My hubbies parents are also financially strapped, but they try to
help out as much as possible. I just get tired of hearing how broke
my dad and his wife are when they just got back from a 15 day cruise,
bough an RV, got several tatoos, etc. etc. etc. Anyway, things will
look up soon. I just lost so much babysitting income from the
recovery.
My daughter actually carried a load of laundry downstairs for me
today--that was as much cleaning during her suspension from school I
could get her to do! Oh well, it's more than she usually does.
I belong to a freecycle group and someone had a notice that they were
giving away hundreds of books, so I stopped by and picked up about 4
boxes, something for everyone. So that was a little bright spot in
the day. Gotta find them when you can. Gosh I sound so negative--I'm
really not, I'm usually a really positive person. I usually go by
the philosophy that you can't change what happens but you can choose
your reaction to it.
SO--thanks for all the love and support and suggestions. I
understand the journaling idea. I make my youngest keep an emotions
journal so she can let go of things. I'm usually pretty good at
letting go. I kinda think that maybe my zoloft is not working as
well since I had the surgery. you know our bodies change so much,
maybe I need to get the doctor to give me something else to try.
So--I'm better now. Gotta get back to folding laundry--YAY--at least
we have laundry to fold. See--that's positive.
Take care,
Shannon/sheggy

Kathy ...for what it's worth I have to tell you a funny story. I had a
hernia and revision after my RNY so I know what one is like. I was
convinced I had a hernia again...so much so I told everyone. Well, Monday I
saw my surgeon to discuss what to do about it. I do NOT have a hernia.
What I have is a thin midriff which I never had before. What I am feeling
is my abdominal wall which is something most people never feel. He even
used the word "skinny" when it came to my upper body. I have all sorts of
bumps along my incision just under the scar about the size of a pea or small
marble. He told me those are the sutures and knots that Dr. M tied off.
Most people never feel those because there is so much flesh over them. I
have a bump in the center under my breasts...a big hard bump. That is the
bone...the sternum meeting the rib cage and is actually a medical point of
reference for surgeons so they know where to start many incisions. In other
words....everything I have not only should I have ..but everyone has it but
us obese people have never felt these things before. I don't know if you
have a hernia or not. But I was in shock. Since I had a hernia
previously....and knew what one behaved liked I have been telling people for
months I had one again. I don't. BTW....the surgeon over and over
commented on Dr.M's good work. Since he could feel knots and sutures and
could see the scar and felt my abdominal wall, etc. he told me I really had
a good surgery.
Good luck with the plane. Hope the tray comes down perfectly. Have fun in
Montego Bay. My last trip obese was to a resort near Negril. Loved the
resort but had a miserable time because of my obesity. This sounds like a
second honey moon in every way. Enjoy and report back all your activities
but the private ones. <g

I am so excited. I leave for a convention to Montego Bay, Jamaica
on sunday morning. My husband and I have been looking forward to
this since last May. We haven't been anywhere together in so long,
we are overdue!!!
I am sure I will fit much better in the airplane seat and won't need
an extender. Going to and from Brazil in July I didn't need the
extender but it was very, very tight and I couldn't put the tray
table all the way down. I am anxious to see how that has changed
too.
Can't wait for the warm weather and relaxation. All last summers
clothes are way to big and I didn't want to buy any right now cause
they won't fit by next summer. I have been borrowing clothes from
friends and family to get me through the vacation.
Have a couple of questions. I am not a drinker by any means but I
do like those fancy unbrella drinks when on a cruise etc. Are they
too sugary for us? Any suggestions on what I can drink? So far, I
haven't tried any carbonated drinks and stay with water, but I am
ready for a little splurge while in Jamaica. What about alcohol? I
don't drink any fruit juices either because they are so high in
carbohydrates, but I thought maybe fruitjuice or a virgin something
or other. Help, please all you world travelers!!!
I think I have developed a hernia. Damn!!! Nothing hurts or feels
funny. I was tanning for my trip and when I went to lay on the bed
I looked down and saw a bulge about the size of a large orange. It
really freaked me!! I wore my binder all three months and followed
all the rules. Oh well, nothing I can do about it now!
Kathy B in KC

Welcome Laurie,
You are going through the worst weeks right now. How are you holding
up? I will give our standard advice for people in the same place as
you.....drink by sipping, sipping, sipping AND walk, walk, walk. Let
us know how you are doing and ask any questions, ANY questions you
want answers to. I am 10 weeks out, and those weeks are very fresh
to me. Did you have the surgery open or laproscopically?
Lizanne

Lisa,
I am going to make this tonite! It sounds great. One question...what are ranch
style beans? Are they pinto, mexican, kidney or will just any kind work?
Kathy B in KC

Welcome to the group Laurie!!! Hope your recovery is going well . .How you
doing?
sharon xoxo

Kathy...truthfully I don't follow the pattern either. For the first 8 weeks
or so I lived in the bathroom 24/7 and even had to cancel doctor
appointments so I could be next to the bathroom at all times. That did
change at 9 weeks I think it was. Since then I go about 5-10 times the
first 5-6 hours I am up and then I am done for the rest of the day. But I
don't dare plan anything the first part of my waking day. Fiber and all
the usual things doesn't change that. It is simply how my body works.
Periodically, like yesterday, I have an all day'er but that isn't frequent.
Same with urine. Since I carry a lot of fluid I figure they go hand in
hand. Yesterday I went through a roll of toilet tissue in 6 hours. But
today the scale showed a 7 pound drop. I always have a good drop after a
bathroom day. So I know that not everyone follows the norm. I usually
quote averages that I have read here from other people than the special
cases and hope I am right....for that person.
Sorry your problems started out so far. I have accepted the fact that my
plumbing will always work this way and at least I know that if I get up at
10 am by 3pm I am good to do anything until 4-5am when I go to bed. But
then nothing about my story is typical. I stopped losing at 255 give or
take a few and have been negotiating with Dr. C and a vascular surgeon for
months to try to get PS and every aspect of my DS and non DS life is
different from the usual. I am still glad I got it. I'll never be 410 lbs
again and most of my really acute medical problems are resolved and now I
can work on the ones that aren't. W

Certainly!
2lbs ground beef
2 cans Ranch Style Beans
1 can whole kernel corn
2 cans Rotel (I used one can mild and one can of the Mexican flavor)
1 small to med. chopped onion
2 pkgs. Taco Seasoning
1 Pkg. Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing DRY Mix
Just chop the onion and add it to the ground beef while cooking, in a
nice sized soup pot. Drain the beef and add all the other
ingredients. Rinse the cans and add that water to the soup for your
desired amount of juice. Simmer for a couple of hours...better yet,
make it the day before and reheat it the day you want to eat it. This
recipe may look blah blah but it is SOOOOO wonderful! My family
requests it all the time! We had it Sunday for dinner and my father
in law made me print him the recipe so he could fix it at their
house. Sprinkle a little cheese on top and eat with crackers or corn
bread. It also freezes well.

1. Name: Laurie S
2. City and State: Houston, TX
3. E-mail Address: Laurie9797@...
4. Are you: Considering Surgery, Pre-Op or Post-Op: Post-Op
5. Date of WLS: 10/15/07
6. Surgeon's Name and Location: Dr. Naaman, Houston, TX
7. Type of Surgery: Gastric Bypass
8. Highest Pre-Surgery Weight: 312
9. Insurance or Self-Pay: Insurance
10. What is the name of the insurance company that covered your WLS
(if
applicable): Highmark BC/BS
11. Birthdate:2/28/76
12. Occupation: Accounting Admin
13. Married or Single (if married what is your spouse's name?):Single
14. Do you have children? If so, what are their names? No
15. Hobbies: Going to the gym, spending time with friends and family,
playing Second Life, travel
16. Anything else you would like to share with other members:

Hi Everyone!
I decided to take my measurements today. I am very pleased to say
that in 5 weeks I have lost a total of 34 pounds AND 27 inches!!! I
have gone down a dress size so far. I am getting lots of positive
comments from friends at work, my mother and kids have all noticed
the wt. loss also. I still feel just as fat as always, but I guess
that is all my mind playing with me. I hope I can get over the
feeling fat thing eventually!
I also have found a nice brand of beef jerkey that I am enjoying. It
makes a great snack at work or on the run when I can't get anything
else. I am still having to eat a little something every 2-4 hours.
The jerkey has 0.5g of fat, 3g carbs and 13g protein with 100
calories. Does that sound like a good snack idea? It is one of the
very few things I have found that my stomach tolerates well and my
mouth also likes. Keeping my mouth AND my tummy both happy is often
tricky!
Well....I gotta run do errands. I have off work today and have to
make good use of my time. I hope everyone is having a great day!
Robin
10/26/04
249/215/130's
down 34 pounds and 27 inches in 5 weeks.

Kelly...I, too, plateaued for about 12 days. In my signature I kept
writing "STILL 217lbs!!"....all of a sudden yesterday morning I got
up and it jumped down 4 pounds to 213!! How in the WORLD you wake up
to such a huge loss I don't know, but then again I don't care! LOL
That's like a nice sized roast just gone in one day! You'll wake up
one morning and see the scale move! You're normal!
Lisa
262/213/140
-49 POUNDS WOOOOOHOOOOOOOOO!!!!!
8 weeks post op

Jeannie,
I just took a look at your pictures. What a difference. It's nice to
be able to see how far everyone has come in this battle. How old's
your "little" boy? We are such a good looking bunch, as someone else
mentioned earlier.
Lizanne

I had a similar experience... cut to half my income during the 8
week recovery from open surgery (with 10% surgery costs to cover),
and my grocery bill *has* dropped quite a bit (but it is also offset
by what I spend on protein powder, additional vitamins, and protein
bullets). Overall, however, I still come out ahead on food costs.
Lora

Hi Stella,
Congratulations!
Yes $12K should be enough. You will of course want to watch your expenses.
Some of us have splurged on shopping and sight seeing, and obviously that
can run up the costs.
I don't know about the laser hair removal. Doc M could probably tell you
though. Many people have had dental work set up through Ana (who has a
cousin who is a dentist). If there is a place doing laser hair removal (and
there probably is) it will almost certainly be cheaper than here.
When you see your PCP you need him to give you a letter that says you are ok
to have surgery. My PCP gave me a physical since I had never seen him
before. Basically Doc M needs to know if you have any medical conditions
that will complicate the surgery.
Doc M prefers you to go to a mental health professional for your psych eval.
If you have a good relationship with your PCP and he knows you well then Doc
M has accepted letters from PCPs. The eval is to let Doc M know if you are
suffering from depression or any other psychological problems, and if you
are mentally/emotionally prepared to deal with the surgery and to handle the
post-op care (supplements, diet change, etc).
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

Dawn,
I am so glad that Lisa brought your stats to our attention. You made
it to one-derland. I weigh myself tonight at my water aerobics class
and I am hoping to make it there also. Last Thursday I was 200.8
lbs. Great job, Dawn!!!
Lizanne

Welcome Dawn,
I am so glad you decided to join our group also. I have never found
anything made with stevia, but now that I know I will look for it.
Thanks, Dawn. So how are you doing now that you are back to work and
the real life again. I haven't heard much because I stopped posting
for a while after the surgery and now I need to catch up. Are you
doing well?
Lizanne

Judy,
I think you will find that GBS has a low after-surgery cost. The
price of food drops outrageously. I took nitamins anyway so that
didn't really change. I eat about a fifth of what I used to. In the
beginning things might cost more because I overestimated the amount I
could eat, or from the leftovers that had to be thrown away. I also
wasn't sure what my pouch would tolerate, so some of that food had to
be discarded. My food budget has really shrunk. What other expense
is there? I did once buy a protein powder, which I did use for a few
days, but that was used in a shake with banana or strawberies or
instant decaf coffee. Breakfast....are you eating breakfast now? I
really feel that I am spending less money.
The only thing I had to deal with was lack of income. I had open
surgery and was out of work for nearly 7 weeks. Plus things didn't
recuperate as quickly as I had hoped. I did get disability, but that
isn't nearly as much income as I need to pay my bills. So slowly I
will get back on my feet, especially since my food bill has dropped
so much. Don't let the money keep you from making yourself healthy.
Start planning now. Save $25 per week, or even $10, so that you
won't need to struggle as badly after the surgery.
Lizanne

I had an idea. I never thought of it! I could use the now to big undies to
stuff the now to big bras. AAHHHAAA......Well that could at least make me
FEEL like I have something there. HEHEHE
Deborah Powell
105 pounds gone but not forgotten

well, it all sounds great--this is what i'm hoping for. i'd
love to hear about everything. please speak up, gang!
even privately, if you want.
thanks,
diane

Lisa A,
I think that after we have this surgery we become empowered. Yes,
that's an over used word, but it was exactly what I was looking for.
After we make it through those first few tough weeks, and after all
the surgery planning we go through, I think we feel in charge again.
We exercise, eat better, enjoy our kids more, and probably a million
other things particular to each of us. I don't think I will ever be
a marathon person, but a new month of exercise is coming up and I had
no problems deciding if I should sign up. It was just the natural
progression. I am amazed at myself. I am actually the only person
who showed up for every class in Oct. Not my usual way. Good luck
with the gym.
Lizanne

Wow.. I get all the credit for Penny's concern :))) I DO worry about you TOO
though, sis!
Pat
Sharon Buffo <septsweety@...
Im fine Pat. . it has actually let up and im barely spotting
Thanks for worrying about me :))
sharon xoxo

Diane....ask the people who have done all of it in Curitiba as they probably
have more recent info than Luis. Ana takes people to the beach and several
people can help you make plans for the train to the rain forest. And you'll
learn about the Sunday flea markets and the mall and the Wal-Mart and the
Avenue of the Flowers and all the other neat places. There are many here
who have just the info you want plus they can tell you prices and other
details. W

Pat,
You are such a dreamer.....Nothing is that easy.
Lizanne

Lisa A,
......waiting for one to hit...UGH!! I had my first one start on the
20th day after surgery. For three weeks I lost .3 lbs. Frequently
my weight increased, yet I was eating around 400 calories a day. I
never thought it would move in the right direction. Then, by just
following all the rules, it started to move in a downward motion.
Just drink, eat protein, take vitamins and walk and things will begin
to creep back down. AND TRY not to step on the scale for a week.
Good Luck.
Lizanne

Lisa A,
Stop worrying. We love you and Pat nor I am criticising you. We
have all made mistakes, right Pat? We just didn't want you to get
lost in the conversation. You are a great contributor.
Lizanne

This doesn't really relate to your vision problems, but when I lost a
lot of weight before, and I wore glasses, the glasses no longer did
their job. I was told that because my face had changed shape, the
area where I focused on the lenses had changed. I needed new glasses
to change the focal point.
Lizanne

Welcome Dariece. Please feel free to ask us anything.
Lisa A
lizanneflowers <lizanneflowers@...
1. Name: Dariece
2. City and State: Salt Lake City, UT
3. E-mail Address: Dariece@...
4. Are you: Considering Surgery, Pre-Op or Post-Op: Considering
Surgery
5. Date of WLS: N/A
6. Surgeon's Name and Location: Sherman Smith, SLC, UT
7. Type of Surgery:
8. Highest Pre-Surgery Weight: 340+ because my scale stops at 340.
9. Insurance or Self-Pay: Insurance
10. What is the name of the insurance company that covered your WLS
(if applicable): Empire Blue Cross
11. Birthdate: 5/19/1954
12. Occupation: Management
13. Married or Single (if married what is your spouse's name?):
Married to Don
14. Do you have children? If so, what are their names? 1 son, Cameron
15. Hobbies: Knitting, cross stitch, reading, did I mention knitting?
16. Anything else you would like to share with other members: Scared
spitless. The more I learn, the more I realize I don't know anything
about this surgery, or what to expect post op.
Lisa
284/271/217/135