Weight loss

Thanks for understanding, Wendy. You'd have to be on digest to
understand it. I know about leaving part of the previous post to
understand the corresponding response, but like I said, others would
have to be on digest to understand (as you apparently were). I guess
I'm must be the only one on digest that's having a problem, so I'll just
live with it.
It's just that recently it was so much of a problem I was tempted to not
even read them. More than half the digest was repeats of repeats. I
just can't get all my messages individually with the different groups
that I'm on. My inbox would get so full and they'd stop arriving
because I don't have much time to read them lately with work and home,
etc.
I meant to tell you, Wendy, that one of your recent posts on the main
board back to me in regards to knees, etc. was one of the best I've ever
read by you. It said so many profound things and I meant to stop and
take the time to tell you then, but I let it slip by. By now, you're
probably scratching your head wondering what it was, but at the time, it
really echoed some of my thoughts. It followed along the thread of
getting a revision, etc.
Take care, all and have a great week.
Susan in WA

<<What type of test do I ask for?
Hi Jeannie,
Dr. Rabkin has a downloadable form that lists all the tests we should have
done yearly. I just took that to my primary doctor. You can just cross off
the part that says to fax the results to them. I just told my doctor that I
would email the results to Dr. Marchesini after she returned them to me. She
was fine with that, but if your doctor wants to send the results directly to
Dr. M., that would be okay too. Go to www.pacificsurgery.com and select
Downloads. Then go down to the section titled Post-op Patients and click on
Annual DS Lab Orders. This is a pretty comprehensive list of tests and the
lab that I go to always has to really double check their codes to be sure
they get the right tests, but they always manage to figure it out. I will
warn you that they do take quite a bit of blood so you might want to sit
there for a little while after they take it so you don't get light-headed.
Val in Texas
DS 09/30/03
286/140/135-140?
BMI was 50.7 now 24.8

Wow Lizanne that is great..that was a lot of food. I had bought a rib eye last
week. I am freezing it for next time. I would love to have a good steak, some
mushrooms, asparagus and small salad..I know that's a lot but just a little of
each..How long did it take you to eat the steak?
Granny Penny in San Diego

Well said Lizanne and I agree wholeheartedly.Please remind them also that posts
sometimes get overlooked because there is so much posting so be sure to post
again..please don't take it personal being overlooked..it does happen
accidentally.
Granny Penny in San Diego

thanks Lora, I will check and see, but I won't consider it. I know myself I need
the restriction!
Judy
"Starting the Process with Friends"
Kaiser-Fremont, CA
265/259/?/145
HW/CW/SW/GW

The surgery I had "Sleeve Gastrectomy" is not the stomach being small &
round, it is longer incision.
Here is a site has a small pic on it:
_http://www.surgicallyslim.com/sleeve.htm_
(http://www.surgicallyslim.com/sleeve.htm)
_https://www.greatamericanphotocontest.com/voter1/index.aspx?
referid=EmailFriends&p=132065&x=.jpg_
(https://www.greatamericanphotocontest.com/voter1/index.aspx?referid=EmailFriend\
s&p=132065&x=.jpg)
"http://www.voiceforinmates.com/index.htm"
_http://www.poetry.com/voteforme/poemvote1.asp?PID=12150284_
(http://www.poetry.com/voteforme/poemvote1.asp?PID=12150284)
************************************** See what's new at http://www.aol.com

I am in Australia now and have to have my blood taken to see how I am doing
vitamin wise. What type of test do I ask for? Is it a test for my
electrolytes??? I feel dumb saying I need my vitamins checked....
Thanks for anyone that responds.
JEannie

Hi All,
Just wanted to announce that we have over 50 members. Welcome, all
new members. As you have probably noticed, we post a lot. Do not
feel shy, because we would love to have new people post. Most of us
have known each other for months and have gone through many different
problems. You will probably notice some teasing going on. Please
don't worry about that. We do take all questions seriously, as we
have a lot of experience and plenty of reference materials. We will
never make you feel belittled, and if somehow you become uncomfortable
with something that was said, don't leave, just speak up and we will
work on getting the problem straightened out. We will give you, not
only support, but friendship also. I know I will make it through the
hard times and the great times, because of all the support I have
received here. More than most, and I am proud to be part of this
group.
Welcome,
Lizanne

see
http://www.obesityhelp.com/forums/vsg/cmsID,8874/mode,content/a,cms/
for info on this. I actually considered it, but it is basically a
RNY with a larger stomach "sleeve" rather than a "pouch" (so you can
eat more... a danger to my long-term success in my book) and without
the intestinal bypass (so there is no dumping). What concerned me
most, though, was that most surgeons remove the part of the stomach
that the sleeve was cut from.
I know of one person who had it and just loves it because she can
eat a little more than we (RNYers) can AND because she won't dump.
BUT... she has to be very careful about her fat and calorie content
since there is no malabsorption.
Lora

Hi Lisa,
Glad the capsules will work for you. I start out first thing in the morning
with my calcium, allergy-D and the K-DUR (potassium pill). Then I set my
little pill alarm for every two hours. The next time, I take the multis,
then the calcium, multis, etc. until I'm done for the day. I don't think it
really matters which one you start with. I just felt like the allergy-D
helps me to absorb the calcium better and for some reason, I like to take
the potassium first thing in the morning so I can eat something right away.
If I don't eat something pretty soon after taking the potassium, it bothers
me. I only have to take that once during the day, so just get it over with
early so I don't forget it.
Val in Texas
DS 09/30/03
286/140/135-140?
BMI was 50.7 now 24.8

Hi Janie,
Sandra at the office said he will most likely have to stay longer
according to Dr. M. I knew that his friends were planning to come
back with him on the 22nd but what about now? Anyway it was just a
concern. Hopefully he will recover quickly and come home on time.
Natalie

Jenn, how far post-op are you? (Mine hasn't started yet, so I can't
help as far as info!)
Lora

I'm actually having trouble with meat that HAS fat in it. Other
than chili with the ground beef chopped up very small, and filet
mignon (don't I wish I could afford that every week!), I am having
to chew SO much and then it still sits very heavy in my pouch and
doesn't feel terrific digesting.
Lora

Natalie, Lance will not be traveling home alone unless he has to stay longer
than planned. His friend is going back and traveling home with him. Janie
Natalie <nataliekoe@...
Lance's sister in law talked to Dr. M today. He said he expected
everything to go well from here on out for Lance. He was still in
ICU but had been taken off of the ventilator. His children are very
worried about him and can not talk to him on the phone due to his
being in the ICU. If anyone who is in Curitiba hears anything else
please let us know. I am one of his nurses in his office. Our whole
office is concerned. Dr. M said he may not be able to go home as
planned. I just hate for him to travel back alone when he is well
enough.
Take care,
Natalie

Lance's sister in law talked to Dr. M today. He said he expected
everything to go well from here on out for Lance. He was still in
ICU but had been taken off of the ventilator. His children are very
worried about him and can not talk to him on the phone due to his
being in the ICU. If anyone who is in Curitiba hears anything else
please let us know. I am one of his nurses in his office. Our whole
office is concerned. Dr. M said he may not be able to go home as
planned. I just hate for him to travel back alone when he is well
enough.
Take care,
Natalie

Lizanne,
Just another example about how society has a slanted view of us when
we are heavier. Sad but true.
Shenise

Thanks Dariece, I may add that to my prayer before I go to bed. What a great
realization!!! Naomi
darcy451 <Dariece@...
these posts, but I send out quotes to
my employees all the time. I am sending you my favorite one. It is
my favorite, even if it is a little long.
"The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of attitude on life.
Attitude, to me, is more important than facts. It is more important
than the past, the education, the money, than circumstances, than
failure, than successes, than what other people think or say or do. It
is more important than appearance, giftedness or skill. It will make
or break a company... a church... a home. The remarkable thing is we
have a choice everyday regarding the attitude we will embrace for that
day. We cannot change our past... we cannot change the fact that
people will act in a certain way. We cannot change the inevitable. The
only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is
our attitude. I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and
90% of how I react to it. And so it is with you... we are in charge of
our Attitudes."
~ Charles Swindoll, Pastor and Author

Penny,
Some very good cuts of meat don't have enough marblized fat to keep
them moist. In a couple of weeks when you try again, try a rib eye
or delmonico. Yum Yum Yum!!
Until this weekend, I felt the same as you. Nothing appeals. Last
night I ate far more than I thought I could, and probably more than I
should have. I ate about 4 oz of steak and a quarter cup of mashed
potatoes with butter. Real butter, not fake butter. It was so
good. I saved the 4 oz that was left and ate half of it for lunch
today, plus I had nonfat yogurt. I guess my appetite is definately
coming back.
Lizanne

My weightloss has slowed down now too and I also feel like this is
going to be it, a size 16 but we will see. I hope to reach a 12 and I
will feel accomplished.
:)
Deidre

Judy,
This will be a constant worry until you have the surgery. I was
always worried about timing, and that I didn't want to compromise
getting my surgery by doing real life things. Then as the surgery
gets closer, all I worried about was will I get approval. Finally,
the two weeks before surgery, I worried I would catch something. I
stayed away from crowds and washed my hands constantly. Get used to
it. It's almost a relief when the day of surgery arrives.
I have a lot of history in NY. I was born in White Plains, NY. My
grandparents lived in Scarsdale and New Rochelle, as I was growing
up. We used to drive up there Chritmas eve, across the George
Washington bridge. Exciting. Then I lived up near Rochester, just a
mile from Lake Ontario for 3 years in the seventies. The big thing I
remember was cold and snow. We had 6' in one 24 hour period. Wild.
Lizanne

Cindy, My PCP measured me at 5' 4-1/2" which really surprised me since 15
years ago I was 5'6" ..... said it's the degenerating spine .....
If you're considering the RNY, please learn everything about it. It's very
different from DS, not just immediately after surgery but for the rest of
your life.
Ask Dr M what reason he has for recommending RNY. He's a very congenial and
upfront man and will be very specific in his explanation.
What's your BMI?
Lori K
07/29/04

Kevin.....I cannot speak for Dr. Ungson but I presume my responses work for
whomever the doctor is. Usually follow up in the U.S. is quite simple re
insurance coverage as long as the proper codes are used. Insurance doesn't
ask the why's as long as the codes are correct. For lab work use a
malabsorption code for insurance payment. For obstructions or unexpected
pain which sends you to an ER for diagnosis the diagnostic tests required
and treatment once diagnosed again means codes. If your gall bladder wasn't
removed that could be a cause of pain so would require tests. If the gall
bladder is removed they can be looking for something else. If you have
diarrhea and have a bacterial infection and are prescribed Flagyl or other
med they could code for the bacterial tests. Remember if you were severely
obese you also may have anything from sleep apnea to diagnosis, elevated
glucose with diabetes to arthritis, hypertension and on and on if you see
where I am going. Rarely is someone turned down for follow up as long as
they don't do something silly like saying "unexpected pain following a
BPD/DS" and waving a red flag. I have never had anything not covered. We
went into this surgery with poor health usually and any testing for
complications could be reason enough for hospitalization, testing, etc.
Before you go overseas make sure your PCP feels comfortable following you in
such a manner. Bring back operative reports and xrays, etc. so your PCP
knows exactly what your insides look like. Find a gastroenterologist to
work with you who fully understands the implications of leaks, scar tissue &
adhesions, C-Diff which is a bacterial infection, the use of probiotics etc.
after antibiotics to create a proper balance of good/bad bacterial in your
digestive tract, etc. I have found follow up and insurance coverage to be
quite easy......IF the codes are used. Insurance doesn't care the original
reason for the problem. I even brought in films from Brazil to a radiology
clinic when I had an upper GI and small bowel studies so the radiologist
could see what my insides look like compared to a normal person's inside.
It's never been a problem and I have Medicare primary and BC/BS secondary.
W

Hi guys and Dr. Marchesini.
I have been approved for laprascopic BDP/DS from University of Chicago hospitals
here in Chicago. I have completed all required testing as well as nutritional
and psychological counseling.
As I am sure is the case for most of you, then the insurance monsters hit- hard.
I just got my denial letter from my insurance company for weight loss surgery,
with special emphasis on the fact that they will not cover the DS. I will use
either Dr. M or Dr. U to have my procedure done, provided I receive satisfactory
answers from you, my pioneering mentors and potential surgeon, for the following
questions. Here are my questions.
1. If you have complications related to the procedure six months or a year out
from surgery, and your insurance company does not cover the DS procedure or
related complications, how do you get health care related to the procedure?
2. How long does it take for the open incision to heal?
I am posting the same questions to Dr. U's group. Thanks for your help and the
lively discussion. As a pre-op person, this is just what I need to make an
informed decision. I have confidence in the ability of both surgeons now, I am
simply performing a cost/benefits analysis at this point, particularly since I
will have to pay for it.
I am probably going to take a home equity loan out to have this done. Has anyone
done this? Can we deduct as medical expenses? Will the good Dr. take a check?

I am way behind in reading all these posts, but I send out quotes to
my employees all the time. I am sending you my favorite one. It is
my favorite, even if it is a little long.
"The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of attitude on life.
Attitude, to me, is more important than facts. It is more important
than the past, the education, the money, than circumstances, than
failure, than successes, than what other people think or say or do. It
is more important than appearance, giftedness or skill. It will make
or break a company... a church... a home. The remarkable thing is we
have a choice everyday regarding the attitude we will embrace for that
day. We cannot change our past... we cannot change the fact that
people will act in a certain way. We cannot change the inevitable. The
only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is
our attitude. I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and
90% of how I react to it. And so it is with you... we are in charge of
our Attitudes."
~ Charles Swindoll, Pastor and Author

Lizanne, I bought a small but pricey piece of steak last week and grilled it
lightly..My daughter almost choked at the rareness of it..Took two bites and
knew I wouldn't be able to eat it. My pouch just does not like meat. I think I
will just wait a few weeks until I try again. This really does get frustrating
at times because I want to eat healthier and want to get some veggies and such
in..They simply don't appeal to me either and I have always loved my
veggies.Blah....nothing is appealing anymore..
Granny Penny in San Diego

Yes Pat, this is the perfect time because I got that knee injection done and
cortisone in my foot, I should be good to go. So pizza it is!!! I will
definitely walk it off. can't wait. It just occurred to me this morning that I
will be ready to cry if Kaiser calls to set up any appts. during that time,
cause I know the appts are few and far between, that would be a bummer.
Judy
"Starting the Process with Friends"
Kaiser-Fremont, CA
265/259/?/145
HW/CW/SW/GW

First of all.....VAL....Thank you SO much for chiming in and sharing
what vitamins works for you! I am SO relieved that I've found
something that I will be able to do. The capsules are the PERFECT
solution for me! I can swallow 4 or 6 of them at a time....well, one
at a time, but 4 to 6 in one sitting without a problem. AND since
they are made for us WLS people, and it tells you how many to take
according to what kind of surgery you've had, I feel so confident
that it's the right stuff in the right amounts. VAL, how do you take
your multi's and your calciums. I know how MANY you take, but with
all of the talk about not taking calcium with multi's....I'm guessing
they need to be spread out a few hours. Do you take the multi's when
you get up, then the calcium a bit later and so on? Thanks for your
help. And Dave, thank YOU for sharing about the Chewable's....but
it's just too much pill to chew and I can't do it. If you or anyone
else wants this bottle of Cal Citrate Chewables, 60 wafers (paid
$14.50) and the Pineapple Multi Chewables 90 tablets (paid $15.25),
I'll ship them to you. I only used maybe 2 out of each jar. Let me
know and I'll be happy to send them to you.
Lisa
10 weeks post op -53

Aboslutely Penny!!! *I* am a loving Pat!!!
Pat
Penny Drozd <pennyisnot@...
Wow, Beth, I am honored and thank you very much....and I like your
sense of humor...but Pat would give me a loving pat...I think...There are so
many of you still waiting and I hope and pray all of you will have you day soon
with lots of success stories to follow for others also.
Penny in San Diego
Age 60 Ht 5'7"
LAP RNY 7.2.07
307/272/199/140

Penny,
I also have problems with chicken....it is just too dry feeling, even
if it's been with other moist items. The funny thing, is that steak
is great for me. I know others can't handle steak at all. I eat
mine either rare or medium rare so that may make a difference. I
would think that trying to eat it well or medium well would be awful,
but I though that before the surgery.
I haven't tried anything like chips or breads or dessert type items
yet. I want to put that off as long as I can stand it.
Lizanne

That is so sweet of you Patrice. Isn't your surgery scheduled for
today? Try not to worry about having surgery, I am sure yours will go
just fine. As far as I know, this is Dr. M's 2nd leak. When it happens
to you, those statistics do not mean much, do they.
Thanks for looking in on Lance.
Becca

In a message dated 12/13/04 1:24:24 AM Pacific Standard Time,

I´m on my way to the hospital. I will sit with the friends who
accompanied Lance and tell the others here. Without the email none of
us knew about the leak he experienced.
I had the endoscopy this morning and it happened in the afternoon
apparently. Believe me, the sun is shining, it´s a warm a beautiful
day, everything will be all right. With Dr. M. on the case, he took
care of it immediately. As far as I know, Lance was scheduled to come
to the hotel tomorrow and I~m the only American left to have surgery.
All the rest are recovering and leave this week and or early next
week. As soon as I~m ambulating I´ll look in on Lance.
G-d speed to Lance.
Patrice

Sharon,
I did see it last night, but it had ingredients that may have been
too much for me. If you stick it in the reference files, I can use
it when my tummy works better.
Lizanne

Thanks Sharon! I added this to the recipes folder.
~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 one sounds great too.
Carole
Wendy Held <w.wendyh@...
It hurt to leave my 2nd California house. I always wanted a Victorian and
I loved it. Even the street I was on was wonderful because it was all
Victorians. The first California house was nice but it was a typical 5
bedroom development house but it was on SF Bay and lovely in its way. W

It hurt to leave my 2nd California house. I always wanted a Victorian and
I loved it. Even the street I was on was wonderful because it was all
Victorians. The first California house was nice but it was a typical 5
bedroom development house but it was on SF Bay and lovely in its way. W

Sharon,
In the list of what's normal that Dawn posted, one of the items it
listed was...the ability to take a compliment and say thank you.
Many people have this problem, not just us. I heard that the
compliment is not about the person receiving the compliment, it is
about the giver. By disagreeing with the giver of the compliment, we
are belittling their feelings. So next time someone compliments you,
say thank you for their self esteem. You'll be doing a good deed.
Lizanne

Pat,
I hope you do. I really do. And maybe since it wasn't so long ago,
you will. I guess I am a realist. If I think I am going to look
like that person I picture in my mind, I will probably be
disappointed and then wonder what all this surgery was supposed to
accomplish. I will forget that the real reason I had this surgery
was to reduce pain. That will become secondary. If I look better
than I think I will, then that's wonderful. I am already having face
issues and I have lost only about 40% of, what I consider, fat.
Those cute little wrinkles that some call modified dimples, are
remaining even when I stop smiling. Three parentheses on each side
of my face is just the beginning, and I have really good skin. I
went to Merrill Norman's the other evening for a make-up demo, and
they all commented on what great skin I had. One lady thought I was
wearing foundation because my face looked so good before they put the
make up on. I did not let them put foundation on.
I guess I am protecting myself. If I think I will look like a
sharpei dog and I end up looking like Mary White, I will be happy.
If I think I will look like that picture in my hallway taken at my
wedding and I end up a wrinkled croan, that will be depressing. It's
just psychological and I have enough of those problems.
Lizanne

Wendy, I could move into your California house tomorrow.
Carole
Wendy Held <w.wendyh@...
90% of the apartments/condos here have tiny galley kitchens because they
are all built within the past 10-15 years and most within the last 5. That
is why I picked this very much older building. I was absolutely shocked
that it had an eat in kitchen and I had never seen it in an apt. in the DC
area. I had an 8 burner Viking range in my last California house. It was a
1901 Victorian upgraded in 1975 and we bought it in 1979. They had to bring
the range in through a smashed wall and obviously it will be in the house
forever. You would have died with this kitchen. It even had two dish
washers and for 1979 the most modern of everything. We left it in 1986.
What was ironic was there was no upstairs bathroom. In 1909 the owners put
in a water closet in the upstairs hallway with the old fashioned tank
toilet. Every bedroom had a wonderful marble sink. Previous owners in
about 1970 put a larger shower also in the upstairs hallway. So technically
it had all the amenities but no bathroom by that name. The people who
bought the house from us put in a major addition with bathrooms but they had
to go through nearly 2 years of approvals because the house was a landmark
house.
The kitchen and the patio door to the parking lot and cheap rent is why I
chose this place. I only have 958 square feet but it is so spacious you
would think I have double since my kitchen is an office and has shelves and
all sorts of extra pieces of furniture and I have THREE walk in closets.
One I had a carpenter build shelves and it is a major linen and catch all
type closet. One wall is pantry. My rent keeps going up every year and I
pay close to $400 more than when I moved in 4 ½ years ago but it is still
significantly cheaper than most other places here. My management changes
every few months ( always Indian owned) because the complex keeps being
sold. I guess they dont want to spend money upgrading and there are many
empty apartments and the police are here every other day about something.
The town and neighborhood are VERY upscale and this apartment is an eye sore
in the communitys eyes. W

prayer said.........will continue.
thanks Nina for letting us know.
blessings.
joanne

Hi Carol, I was reading your questionnaire, what kind of surgery is the one you
had Sleeve Gastrectomy? I never heard of that.
Judy
"Starting the Process with Friends"
Kaiser-Fremont, CA
265/259/?/145
HW/CW/SW/GW

Lighting a candle and saying a prayer...
Konstantin
Dear friends,
Please put Lance LeDoux at the top of your prayer list. His surgery
was Friday. He had a leak last night and Dr. M had to do another
surgery to repair it and drain a small amount that had leaked into
the abdominal cavity. Response to his symptoms (shortness of breath
and abdominal pain) was very quick, and he was diagnosed within 30
minutes and in surgery within 90 minutes of his symptoms. Dr. M
believes it will be resolved well, but Lance is still in ICU. So,
please, say a prayer for him. He did this, as so many of us do, to
live longer for his children.
Thank you!
Nina Wright

Dear friends,
Please put Lance LeDoux at the top of your prayer list. His surgery
was Friday. He had a leak last night and Dr. M had to do another
surgery to repair it and drain a small amount that had leaked into
the abdominal cavity. Response to his symptoms (shortness of breath
and abdominal pain) was very quick, and he was diagnosed within 30
minutes and in surgery within 90 minutes of his symptoms. Dr. M
believes it will be resolved well, but Lance is still in ICU. So,
please, say a prayer for him. He did this, as so many of us do, to
live longer for his children.
Thank you!
Nina Wright

Hi Sharon,
Doing good had my first case of foamies and finally threw up after
eating Chicken last night it was sooooo painful. I am still leery of
eating today after that. I don't know if I ate too fast, didn't chew
well enough or my pouch just doesn't like chicken but it was bad.
Also I am one pound away from onederland so hoping to post again
tomorrow or the next day with the big announcement :)
Lisa L.
245/200/140

Ummmmmm......what does this mean? What is a digest reader? I
understand the trimming thing...but I don't usually read the part
that was posted previously, I only read the new part that was
written. Sorry for the dumbness....what are ya'll talking about?
Lisa
10weeks post op -53
262/209/140

Actually Susan....I always trim and just this afternoon I scrolled so far
down a couple before trimming I was shocked and had a thought about Digest
readers. I didn't say anything but I did notice and you were right to speak
up. I did the digest about 6 months ago for a couple weeks and couldn't
stand it because of the repetition and gave it up. I hated it. W

CAROL You have a b/d tomorrow!!!! COOL.
Judy
"Starting the Process with Friends"
Kaiser-Fremont, CA
265/259/?/145
HW/CW/SW/GW

Hi guys,
Please, please trim your posts for digest readers. It's really been
difficult lately to wade thru the digests with all the posts repeating
and repeating in some of the messages. It would be most appreciated. I
kept hoping someone else would say something so I wouldn't look like the
bad guy. Maybe I'm the only one on digest that cares??????
Susan in WA

So this is your youngest daughters first child..Oh the poor baby, I hope it
doesn't scare her from having any more.. You are blest with so many grandbabies.
I like the Tiny Tike name for the baby.
You will be tired for a while yet and then all of a sudden you will start
getting all this energy and feel great. Hang in there and let us hear from you
more often.
Granny Penny in San Diego

That had to make you feel really great Ally. I have to get mine renewed next
year and it will look a lot better than my military I.D. I got renewed 6 months
ago..LOL..May as well go for the 160 as you will end up less than that
anyway...I am glad you have a determined fiance..he seems to really care about
you..how blessed you are.
Granny Penny in San Diego

CONGRATULATIONS ON THE NEW GRANDBABY.
Judy
"Starting the Process with Friends"
Kaiser-Fremont, CA
265/259/?/145
HW/CW/SW/GW

I am trying it out! I am going to use it to keep track of my intake
of protein, water and calories, and weightloss etc....
Anyhow, What would you say is the percentage of your diet that
consists of protein. The average on FitDay I think is 10-35% of your
daily calories should be from Protein. I know we need to have more
than the average. I am not sure what to put in for the percentage
though. This is kind of confusing for me! All the diets I have ever
been on have counted calories, fat or carbs. I am not sure what to
try to track.
Thanks
Robin G

if you input the foods it will keep track of the
percentages.....each day that is.
hugs.
joanne

Patrice,
The word is "churrasco"
Good luck tomorrow
Luis
austinmoon24 <plieb@...
I just came back from a beautiful evening and am in the office of the
hotel - again - since internet has yet to work in the rooms. I was in
the lobby and chatted with Dr. Marchesini for 15 minutes. He had
walked over from his home to say goodbye to two departing girls...Kim
and Raphaela. Kim is a dream girl who already looks so healthy and
beautiful. Then I had some questions about tomorrow and going into
the hospital. He´s a good man, Dr. M., inspired by his abilities, and
inspiring to those he meets. Then Durval came to have my last supper
with me. We went to the Italian side of town and had churrosc---- I
forget the word -- where the waiters come around and bring you meat
on spits and carve them onto your plate with salads and trimmings.
Plus, there was music, dancing and singing. It couldn~t have been
more fun. What a splendid place to be. It~s called Madalosso. I
laughed and sang til the tears shed. Durval picked up the tiniest
spoon and said next week I~ll let you eat this much. Ha. I´m so
grateful for this renewal. I could not be in a better place.
Patrice
Divinely inspired in this wonderful land of samba

Hi Lori, He hasn't give me a reason. He gave me a site to go to and review. I
am unclear as to what the purpose of that site was as it was basically to
explain the RNY. So I am not really sure. But my height is 5'6' what is yours?
Cindy in va.

We finally got some pictures developed so I posted a new pic of Diane
and I in my folder(Deidre). It was taken last weekend in Annapolis.
Sorry its not closer up
Just to update, even though its not an official milestone, we had our
surgery 6/29/04 and it has been just over 5 months. Diane has lost 73
and I am down 82 as of this week. We were about a size 22/24 before
surgery and now are in size 16's very comfortably.
On most days, we can eat whatever we want. We first stick to mostly
proteins but if the carbs are too tempting we have a few bites after
the protein and it seems to work for both of us and it tends to be
satisfying.
So just for a sample day I will review today's menu:
1/2 cup cottage cheese with equal and just a few chunks of pineapple
(14g of protein)
Slice of low carb wheat bread with 2 slices of bologna and 1 slice of
cheese, only able to eat 1/2 and then 2 hours later ate other 1/2 (15
grams protein)
Red Lobster: 1/2 crab legs with butter,1 coconut shrimp, 2 bites crab
fettucine, 2 bites salad and 2 bites cheesey biscuit(not sure of
protein but if I had to guess about 25grams);
4 bites of Birthday cake(its my birthday tomorrow and we celebrated a
day early)
3 more of my coconut shrimp and a three more bites of crab fettucine
(about 15 grams of protein)
Total protein for day:69 grams and this was a low day because of the
cake. I will make sure to eat 100grams tomorrow
Hope that helps some of the newbies see where you will be in a very
short time.
Deidre

The other day I put some Carb Breyers vanilla ice cream with a half
glass of diet rootbeer and it was really a wonderful treat. Try it.
Deidre

don't forget.........the finals tonight........a 3 hour show.

Thanks Naomi. I can't stand tuna fish right now either..LOL. I actually ate some
of my daughter's pizza the other night..I can eat carbs but meat turns my
stomach. I am sure it will get better as the days go by. I bought a small bag of
fritos and put some soft cheese on them as they are very small pieces and eat
those. A small bag makes many a meal and I am talking about the small lunch size
bags. Or i dip small pretzels in cheese for a different taste. I am not too
worried about calories as I try to get in some and I am sure I am not getting in
very much at all...maybe 600 if that. Chicken is dry tasting, no matter how it
is fixed so I give up on it for now also.
Granny Penny in San Diego

you have just lived an evening shared by MANY of us.........and i am
certain many more to come.
wonderful isn't it.......the memory is fresh and when someone
recounts their experience it is like a tiny jaunt back to those
times.
Gods speed.
joanne

This Tiny Tike of mine he is my 5th Grandchild, My Oldest has 3 children, (
1 girl, 2 boys) My 2nd Daughter has 1 girl, My last Daughter the youngest has
the Tiny Tike my 3 Grandson.
"Mandy", D.J., Natalyah, K.J. aka kofa, & the last Tiny Tike for now, don't
know his name yet I will let you know.
I am fine, just tired still, I get off of Pureed foods Nov. 14th, I go to
weight Management this Friday.
Carol
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referid=EmailFriends&p=132065&x=.jpg_
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************************************** See what's new at http://www.aol.com

Penny-
I haven't had even a tiny peek at the scale. My fiance hid it from me and he
will not bring it out. I had to go get my drivers license renewed on Friday, so
I tried to talk him into letting me weigh so I could tell them my current
weight, and he said NO WAY! I went to the DMV and told the lady my weight was
190 (which is about what I think it is) and she said "no way you weigh 190, I'm
making it 160."
I know I don't weigh 160, but I didn't argue!
~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 just came back from a beautiful evening and am in the office of the
hotel - again - since internet has yet to work in the rooms. I was in
the lobby and chatted with Dr. Marchesini for 15 minutes. He had
walked over from his home to say goodbye to two departing girls...Kim
and Raphaela. Kim is a dream girl who already looks so healthy and
beautiful. Then I had some questions about tomorrow and going into
the hospital. He´s a good man, Dr. M., inspired by his abilities, and
inspiring to those he meets. Then Durval came to have my last supper
with me. We went to the Italian side of town and had churrosc---- I
forget the word -- where the waiters come around and bring you meat
on spits and carve them onto your plate with salads and trimmings.
Plus, there was music, dancing and singing. It couldn~t have been
more fun. What a splendid place to be. It~s called Madalosso. I
laughed and sang til the tears shed. Durval picked up the tiniest
spoon and said next week I~ll let you eat this much. Ha. I´m so
grateful for this renewal. I could not be in a better place.
Patrice
Divinely inspired in this wonderful land of samba

Robin...was that the same beef n broccoli or whatever it was?
Nothing more starchy or more rice this time or anything? That bubbly
feeling that you get in your stomach is the same feeling I get if I
eat stuff too sweet or too starchy/carby? Potatoes actually make my
stomach hurt so much with gas I can't stand up straight! It only
took one time and no more potatoes for me. I haven't really even
TRIED rice but I would imagine it would do the same thing. I don't
want to waste valuable space in my stomach with fillers such as
rice. Just a thought....I DO get those bubbles, but only when I eat
carby foods. Just wondering if you ate more of something else this
time from your leftovers than the other day. I hope it gets better
for you soon. I hate to hear it....you should be coming up real soon
to feeling more normal.
Lisa
262/209/140
-53 10 weeks post op

Cindy, if you don't mind me asking - what was the reason he thought RNY was
best for you?
Initially Dr M told me the same .... having researched all methods of
bariatric surgery, I replied that if that was my only option, I would pass.
He then suggested a common channel of 100. My surgery was 07/29/04 and I'm
very happy he agreed to do the DS for me. I have 48 fewer lbs on my severely
arthritic joints and spine. ..... losing an average of 10 lbs a month and
eating better than I have in years.
BTW, my pre-surgery weight was 202, BMI- 34.5
Lori K
I did finally get in touch with the

Robin....for some reason our tummys very often like a food on the first day
but not the repeat. No one knows why. Sometimes leftovers are a boon every
time and sometimes they are a waste. I went through the whole drug store
too and one day it stopped. I have about 5 boxes of Pepto Bismol chewables,
Beano, Imodium, etc. that I stocked up on last fall and that probably was
the day I stopped needing them. You can't win. All you can do is wait it
out. I did find that sometimes chewable Gas X worked when other forms
didn't and also I have never seen it mentioned but Dramamine once in a while
helped nausea. My internist suggested it at the time since I asked for
Compazine and with all the other meds I take she didn't want to give it to
me. I was shocked when about 50% of the time it worked instantly. The
other 50% it didn't do a blasted thing. But that was better than 0%. W

It is an incredible production. Ever since I went the first time I made up my
mind I was going to go EVERY year. This is my first time to score front row
tickets... last year the best I could do was 8th row. I will get their CDs out
to you *this* week Sharon... I promise! I am also sending you their very first
non-Christmas album "Beethoven's Last Night".
Pat
Sharon Buffo <septsweety@...
IM jealous!!!!! not about the scoping. . been there done that. . about
the Orchestra!!! that would be an awesome concert to see. . maybe next year. :)
sharon xoox

Put the hotel as your address and contact. Dr. M says it is more prudent
than putting his name or the fact that you are having surgery. You are a
tourist with a hotel contact. No different than millions of other people.
The reason is it is possible that the Brazilian govt might see medical
reasons on the Visa and then ask for proof of financial wellbeing, etc.
because they wouldn't want you to be ill in Brazil without money. It's
easier to be a simple tourist than to chance having them ask for banking
records, etc. They might not but why take a chance. If you forget the
hotel address George's FAQ's are at the bottom of this message and the hotel
address and phone, etc. are listed. Have fun. W

Hi,
I wrote a few days ago about finding Chinese that my tummy likes.
Well....It didn't like the leftovers this morning. I decided to skip
the breakfast food and go for something else. I reheated the rest of
my Chinese food. My tummy is very angry with me now. Not only did
it come right back up, but now my tummy has this angry bubbly
feeling. I am starving, but when I eat I get these terrible bubbles
and yucky feeling. Darn Stomach!!!!!
So now this afternoon I am back to eating soup and sipping Ice
water. I will probably eat some yogurt later.
It is very strange how my stomach will like something one day and
than the next kick it all back out.
This bubbly gassy feeling is annoying also. I have tried Nexium,
Pepcid, Prilosec, Tums, Gas X and Pepto and nothing I take seems to
make any difference in how my tummy feels about eating.
I am really glad I have been reading that it will all resolve
eventually. I just wish that day would hurry and get here! WHINE
WHINE WHINE!!!At least I am still losing weight!
Robin G
DS 10/26/04

Dr. M suggested I arrive on Monday morning, 17 Jan. I am arriving at 11:10
on the Saturday before, the 15th. That will give me a day to just zonk out!
I will need it after that flight!
I have a copy of the Visa form - I'm glad there is an Embassy right here in
London. What should I put down under "Name and address of person,
institution, company where you can be reached"? The hotel? I know on Dr.
M's FAQ he said to put you are coming to Brazil for holiday, not for
surgery, or else they will ask lots of questions. Should I just put the
name of the hotel there, and again where it asks for the address I will be
staying at?
ACK! So much to do! I need to find someone to care for my cats while gone.
I would much rather find someone who would be willing to come in here
everyday, rather then take them to a kennel. It's always better when they
can stay at home.
Pam

90% of the apartments/condos here have tiny galley kitchens because they
are all built within the past 10-15 years and most within the last 5. That
is why I picked this very much older building. I was absolutely shocked
that it had an eat in kitchen and I had never seen it in an apt. in the DC
area. I had an 8 burner Viking range in my last California house. It was a
1901 Victorian upgraded in 1975 and we bought it in 1979. They had to bring
the range in through a smashed wall and obviously it will be in the house
forever. You would have died with this kitchen. It even had two dish
washers and for 1979 the most modern of everything. We left it in 1986.
What was ironic was there was no upstairs bathroom. In 1909 the owners put
in a water closet in the upstairs hallway with the old fashioned tank
toilet. Every bedroom had a wonderful marble sink. Previous owners in
about 1970 put a larger shower also in the upstairs hallway. So technically
it had all the amenities but no bathroom by that name. The people who
bought the house from us put in a major addition with bathrooms but they had
to go through nearly 2 years of approvals because the house was a landmark
house.
The kitchen and the patio door to the parking lot and cheap rent is why I
chose this place. I only have 958 square feet but it is so spacious you
would think I have double since my kitchen is an office and has shelves and
all sorts of extra pieces of furniture and I have THREE walk in closets.
One I had a carpenter build shelves and it is a major linen and catch all
type closet. One wall is pantry. My rent keeps going up every year and I
pay close to $400 more than when I moved in 4 ½ years ago but it is still
significantly cheaper than most other places here. My management changes
every few months ( always Indian owned) because the complex keeps being
sold. I guess they dont want to spend money upgrading and there are many
empty apartments and the police are here every other day about something.
The town and neighborhood are VERY upscale and this apartment is an eye sore
in the communitys eyes. W

I would KILL for a large kitchen. Our building was finished in 1979 which is
ancient by Miami standards. I have a 3 bedroom apartment, 1700 sq. ft. which is
nice and big. One of the bedrooms is my office, another my guestroom and the
other is my bedroom. I have a teeny little galley kitchen, the kind you'd see on
a smallish yacht. In my dreams I see an 8 burner Viking range, double ovens,
subzero freezer and matching refrigerator, built in grill and griddle, recycling
bins, wine cooler, etc, etc. But the onlly place I will ever be lucky enough to
see this is in my dreams.
Carole
Wendy Held <w.wendyh@...
I have a purple thumb and killed plants for 25 years before deciding it was
easier to have a plant free environment. This apartment is so cluttered
there aren't any surfaces to put a plant on anyway and with book cases to
the ceiling in nearly every room there isn't even ceiling space for hanging
plants...which is fine by me. After 35+ years of living in 4 and 5 bedroom
houses getting rid of enough stuff to fit into 2 bedrooms was hard enough.
My couch is too long for my living room but I don't care. I adore my
leather couch, chair and ottoman set. My place is a very old building and
is considered the wrong side of the tracks and the other tenants don't speak
English and come and go. I never know my neighbors which is sad. I am here
for convenience and price even if it misses many amenities. But the
apartment itself is spacious and perfect for someone with my disabilities.
My patio door is 5 feet from the sidewalk and I have a parking place right
in front of my door. The building has steps but since I don't do steps I
had outside locks put on the patio door, grab bars in the bath room and
other things done. My kitchen is large enough for a large table and chairs
and since I don't need that my "office" is in the eat in space of my
kitchen so the second bedroom can be a complete bedroom, library or
whatever. If I want to use a table and chairs I have the dining room right
next to the kitchen. The second bedroom actually is probably the largest
walk in closet in history since the queen size futon is also slightly larger
for the room but it is so comfy for guests I would never part with it. W

My comment wasnt to make you feel bad . .it was just when you said "respected
seniors" i was thinking. . of a little old lady . .and Penny is anything but
that . .LOL no disrespect intended and because she is only 8 yrs older than me.
. i was kicking and fighting the "senior" things LOL
Sharon XOXO
Lap RNY 7/30/07
HW242
SW232
CW184
GW125-130

Wow,
I am so sorry Penny that you are having so many problems. . and others as well.
. So far i am doing so well with just about everything.. I of course dont eat
rice, pasta, or potatoes yet. . but all the meats i have tried, i have chewed
well and they havent bothered me. . i have tolerated veggies cooked really well
and sliced tomato. I even baked some lumpia yesterday to see how my pouch would
take them (they are usually fried) they tasted real good and didnt bother me.
. i only had a couple tho. .
The only thing so far that my pouch HATES is grits :( i may try them again
later on .. but if i have to live w/o them . .oh well..
Sharon XOXO
Lap RNY 7/30/07
HW242
SW232
CW184
GW125-130

I have a purple thumb and killed plants for 25 years before deciding it was
easier to have a plant free environment. This apartment is so cluttered
there aren't any surfaces to put a plant on anyway and with book cases to
the ceiling in nearly every room there isn't even ceiling space for hanging
plants...which is fine by me. After 35+ years of living in 4 and 5 bedroom
houses getting rid of enough stuff to fit into 2 bedrooms was hard enough.
My couch is too long for my living room but I don't care. I adore my
leather couch, chair and ottoman set. My place is a very old building and
is considered the wrong side of the tracks and the other tenants don't speak
English and come and go. I never know my neighbors which is sad. I am here
for convenience and price even if it misses many amenities. But the
apartment itself is spacious and perfect for someone with my disabilities.
My patio door is 5 feet from the sidewalk and I have a parking place right
in front of my door. The building has steps but since I don't do steps I
had outside locks put on the patio door, grab bars in the bath room and
other things done. My kitchen is large enough for a large table and chairs
and since I don't need that my "office" is in the eat in space of my
kitchen so the second bedroom can be a complete bedroom, library or
whatever. If I want to use a table and chairs I have the dining room right
next to the kitchen. The second bedroom actually is probably the largest
walk in closet in history since the queen size futon is also slightly larger
for the room but it is so comfy for guests I would never part with it. W

Diane, you have a lot to be thankful for during this holiday season. I
hope you begin feeling well very soon.
Becca

It hasn't been all that long since I was a size 10... the clothes are still in
my closet, and not all the way to the back either. I fully expect to look like
the "old" me, since it wasn't very long ago. Some people in the group have been
overweight since high school or before... and. of course, you can't regain your
youth. Others just tend to yo-yo. I go up and down and up and down over and
over... I don't see any reason why this time won't be the same as the last. I
don't expect to regain my youth... just my former old age :)
Pat
lizanneflowers <lizanneflowers@...
Sharon,
I don't think we will ever look like the old us again. I hope you
do, but I don't want you to be disappointed after all we have all
gone through. Looking the best we can with what we CURRENTLY have to
work with is a good thing. When I get to be 103 lbs, there is no way
I will look like that high school senior I was the last time I
reached that weight. Please, you will be beautiful for who you are,
and that is pretty wonderful.
We are given those fluffy faces to hide the wrinkles because at least
God has a sense of humor, but don't expect to be both fluff and
wrinkle free, that's more than hopeful. The pennies can help
though. Did that sound too harsh? I didn't mean it to be mean, just
realistic. I can take it if you all want to yell at me.
Lizanne

Sharon,
I don't think we will ever look like the old us again. I hope you
do, but I don't want you to be disappointed after all we have all
gone through. Looking the best we can with what we CURRENTLY have to
work with is a good thing. When I get to be 103 lbs, there is no way
I will look like that high school senior I was the last time I
reached that weight. Please, you will be beautiful for who you are,
and that is pretty wonderful.
We are given those fluffy faces to hide the wrinkles because at least
God has a sense of humor, but don't expect to be both fluff and
wrinkle free, that's more than hopeful. The pennies can help
though. Did that sound too harsh? I didn't mean it to be mean, just
realistic. I can take it if you all want to yell at me.
Lizanne

Sharon,
To outrun me is not saying much. I think my 73 year old mother can
outrun me. I know she can get off the floor faster than I can. I
meant no disrespect to Penny. She is one of our senior members.
That says nothing about her age in general just about her age in our
group. Did someone say something earlier about back pedalling?
Lizanne

Aw Deborah, how could I argue with that. I have a small BLOOD family it's true,
but I feel so connected here. It's like all of you are my sisters and brothers.
Carole
Nightsewer@... wrote:
Carole, I hate to differ with you and I don't want to start an
argument,but,,,, and I am SURE that many here on the board would agree with me.
You stated
that you have a teeny family. You are so wrong. You have a huge family.
We on this board all feel like you are part of our family. To some of us, you
have given us motherly advice, to others you have given us the comfort of a
sister, and to some of us you have just given us the confidence to know that
we will make it through this life changing surgery.
We love you here Carole. Even though some of us are far away, we send you
thoughts of love and hugs, every day.
Deborah Powell
aka nightsewer

Carole, I hate to differ with you and I don't want to start an
argument,but,,,, and I am SURE that many here on the board would agree with me.
You stated
that you have a teeny family. You are so wrong. You have a huge family.
We on this board all feel like you are part of our family. To some of us, you
have given us motherly advice, to others you have given us the comfort of a
sister, and to some of us you have just given us the confidence to know that
we will make it through this life changing surgery.
We love you here Carole. Even though some of us are far away, we send you
thoughts of love and hugs, every day.
Deborah Powell
aka nightsewer

Penny, don't forget about cottage cheese and pizza sauce with finely chopped
pepperoni. Tastes good and is quick and easy. I also ate a fair amount of
progresso soup at that stage, and tuna salad made in a food processor. I think
it takes about 4 months to heal and until then I had such a rough time eating
anything solid. I am out 5 mos now and meat has gotten so much easier, but I
still don't like meat, expecially chicken!!!

Judy, I am 4 months out and I simply cannot eat meat at all right now..Nothing
goes down well and it all sticks in my throat and gut (whatever that consists of
now). That's why the doc put me on Reglan but it doesn't help. He said he would
have to do some scoping if it doesn't clear up by the time I see him in Jan
again. But I really don't miss the meat. However I am getting tired of cheese
all the time. Back to yogurt time. Good luck and I hope something works for
you..
Granny Penny in San Diego

Robin.......I told you pre op that by 3 months you would be helping everyone
who followed you. I just read your email to Pam. You didn't have to wait 3
months. <g
or DH and tell them that Wendy says you need a kiss and to rub cold noses.
W

Pam...I am happy for you. Not only will you have an excellent surgical
experience with a wonderful man......but you even got an earlier date. Less
time to get everything done but also less time to obsess about what is about
to happen. You will now hear the quote I use over and over that I wish I
had invented but I am not smart enough. I have no idea who said it but I
loved it. You now have a new address. You live "at the intersection of
excitement and terror". <g

Just wanted to see how Lisa and Cheryl are doing. . I havent seen Lisa post much
... hope everything is ok. . I know Cheryl is doing fine. . She is WONDER
WOMAN!!!
;-D... lol
Sharon XOXO
Lap RNY 7/30/07
HW242
SW232
CW184
GW125-130
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That will make my DH happy! I usually put the AC on in may and keep
it on until October. It is usually like a deep freeze in my house
(that is what other people say!) Maybe my kids won't freeze this
summer HEHEHE!!
Robin

Oh Lisa A this is a wonderful idea...thank you...thank you...thank you....There
has got to be a lot of protein in that..Can someone figure it out. Wow I am
going to do this....LOL ..I have never made egg drop soup as my family wouldn't
eat it so recipe please...I'm sure it isn't difficult but it would be a great
recipe to add to our file section.
Penny in San Diego
Age 60 Ht 5'7"
LAP RNY 7.2.07
307/272/199/140

The cold is normal. We all feel it to one degree or another. Before you were
wearing the equivalent of a fur coat. Now you're wearing a cloth coat. As time
goes on it will become a jacket, then a sweater then nothing. It will do wonders
for your summer a/c bills.
Carole
Robin <jkrdrmom@...
Hi,
I used to be always hot! Now....My nose is ALWAYS cold. My fingers
and toes are also cold. It is cold here in Missouri, but usually I
am fine with it. Now I am wearing heavy socks, a sweater etc... and
still am cold.
I am guess that is becuase of having less insulation? I hope it
isn't a sign of bad blood circulation or something.
My skin has gotten better (I suffer from rosacea and adult acne most
of the time) I bet that is because I am eating better maybe????
My hair is still OK, but I know that can change since I am still only
6 weeks out.
My finger nails and skin are terribly dry though. I took a bath in
Avon skin so soft the other night because I was sooooo itchy. It
helped alot. I have NEVER been able to do that before because my
skin used to be so oily.
My nails are breaking very easily. I hope I am taking enough
vitamins and they will get better.
today I had leftover chinese from yesterday YUMMMMM... But I took ONE
too many bites I think and was a bit nauseated for a little while. I
need a gage on my tummy to tell me when it is full or empty! Maybe
Dr M could figure out something like that??? Just kidding!
I am starting to feel more energy now also and am able to do "normal"
housework without problems.
I went to a Christmas party at DH's work last night and wore a RED
sweater and black skirt. I have NEVER worn red before and it actully
worked out well. It was a size LARGE!!!! I usually wear a 2X I was
soooo surprised! My dress shoes didn't even kill my feet like
usual. I felt almost "normal" last night. I ate some very tender
Beef tenderloin with horseradish sause it was very good, though it
was a bit red for my taste! I had a tiny tiny bit of vanilla
icecream with lots of nuts on top (probably about 2 ounces of
icecream)
I sure wish this tummy stuff would go away, but really I am feeling
much better even with it now. I feel kind of guilty about snacking
and munching so much all day. It feels so "bad", but I know I
actually only eat a very small amount!
Well....Anyhow, I hope everyone is having a very fine day!
Robin G
down 38 pounds and LOTS of inches in 6 weeks.

So glad you joined us Carol. And Im very happy your daughter and grandchild are
ok too
Sharon XOXO
Lap RNY 7/30/07
HW242
SW232
CW184
GW125-130

Hi,
I used to be always hot! Now....My nose is ALWAYS cold. My fingers
and toes are also cold. It is cold here in Missouri, but usually I
am fine with it. Now I am wearing heavy socks, a sweater etc... and
still am cold.
I am guess that is becuase of having less insulation? I hope it
isn't a sign of bad blood circulation or something.
My skin has gotten better (I suffer from rosacea and adult acne most
of the time) I bet that is because I am eating better maybe????
My hair is still OK, but I know that can change since I am still only
6 weeks out.
My finger nails and skin are terribly dry though. I took a bath in
Avon skin so soft the other night because I was sooooo itchy. It
helped alot. I have NEVER been able to do that before because my
skin used to be so oily.
My nails are breaking very easily. I hope I am taking enough
vitamins and they will get better.
today I had leftover chinese from yesterday YUMMMMM... But I took ONE
too many bites I think and was a bit nauseated for a little while. I
need a gage on my tummy to tell me when it is full or empty! Maybe
Dr M could figure out something like that??? Just kidding!
I am starting to feel more energy now also and am able to do "normal"
housework without problems.
I went to a Christmas party at DH's work last night and wore a RED
sweater and black skirt. I have NEVER worn red before and it actully
worked out well. It was a size LARGE!!!! I usually wear a 2X I was
soooo surprised! My dress shoes didn't even kill my feet like
usual. I felt almost "normal" last night. I ate some very tender
Beef tenderloin with horseradish sause it was very good, though it
was a bit red for my taste! I had a tiny tiny bit of vanilla
icecream with lots of nuts on top (probably about 2 ounces of
icecream)
I sure wish this tummy stuff would go away, but really I am feeling
much better even with it now. I feel kind of guilty about snacking
and munching so much all day. It feels so "bad", but I know I
actually only eat a very small amount!
Well....Anyhow, I hope everyone is having a very fine day!
Robin G
down 38 pounds and LOTS of inches in 6 weeks.

I reached out to her last night in private email. . So glad to hear her daughter
and grandbaby is fine .. i invited her here w/ us as well and sent her the
link..
sharon xoxo

I got this from Carol this morning... thought i would share.
sharon xoxo

And Pam we're all very happy for you. You will be taking a wonderful journey
with a totally amazing man. As you've probably figured out, we all LOVE Dr. M.
Carole
Pam <p.suddreth@...
As I said before, I am currently scheduled for surgery in Brussels on
February 10th. After further consideration, I decided to go with Dr. M and
wrote to him about taking me on as a patient.
I was a bit anxious because I had to leave last Sunday for a business trip
in Germany this last week. But I managed to get on to my mail, and he
answered me last Sunday evening (as I had been told he probably would -
forget by whom, but you were right!) Well, to quit beating around the
bush......
My new surgery date is January 19th!
YAYYYYYYYYYYYYYY!!!!!!!!!!!
I literally burst into tears when I read his email, I was that happy. Now,
I am in FRANTIC mode. I have to fill out Dr. M's paperwork, take pics, get
a visa, book a flight, make sure I can take the time off work then rather
then later, etc etc etc.....but I am happy beyond belief!
Once I had made this decision, I knew it was the right decision. And
typical me, once I have made up my mind, I am anxious to move along.
Flights during January are a bit steeper then flights after February 1st,
but even with that added cost, I am still coming out far cheaper then the
cost of having it done in Belgium. And the sooner, the better!
I just wanted you all to know how happy I am, and how glad I am that I found
this group. I had joined the group not because of Dr. M, but because I had
heard about it on the DuodenalSwitch group, and thought joining would give
me access to more info. It was the thread about "$12,000" budgets that got
me to thinking, and also how you all spoke about Dr. M that made me rethink
my plans and explore others. I am so glad I did.
Did I mention how happy I am? :-)
Pam

Wow, Beth, I am honored and thank you very much....and I like your sense of
humor...but Pat would give me a loving pat...I think...There are so many of you
still waiting and I hope and pray all of you will have you day soon with lots of
success stories to follow for others also.
Penny in San Diego
Age 60 Ht 5'7"
LAP RNY 7.2.07
307/272/199/140

Simpson's chewable vitamins?!?!? I'm ALL OVER that, LOL!
"Spider Pig, Spider Pig, does whatever a Spider Pig does. Can he
swing from a web? No he can't, cuz he's a pig. Look Out! Here comes
the Spider Pig..."
Lora

Hi Pam,
Glad you got a date! It is SOOOO close! I can just bet you are very
excited. Congratulations and I hope all your plans and efforts go
smoothly.
Robin G
10/26/04
down 38 pounds in 6 weeks

Welcome, Carol. I'm so sorry you and your daughter had this scare,
but I'm certainly glad everyone is ok.
Lora

http://www.myspace.com/bbws
http://www.friendster.com/bbws
http://www.hoverspot.com/bbws
New Member Questionnaire:
Welcome new member! We are so glad you are here. So we can get to know you
better please copy the information below and paste it into a new message
board post. Then simply answer the questions and post!
Again, welcome! Were glad youre here, and look forward to getting to know
you better!
1. Name: Carol
2. City and State: Born in Plainfield, N.J. But now in PA.
3. E-mail Address: bigmom815@...
4. Are you: Considering Surgery, Pre-Op or Post-Op:
I had my surgery Oct. 2nd, 2007 have now lost 33 lbs. I go to
Weight Management again this Friday for an update.
5. Date of WLS: Oct. 2nd, 2007
6. Surgeons Name and Location: Dr. D'Arcy Duke & Dr. Bruce Duke
7. Type of Surgery: "Sleeve Gastrectomy"
8. Highest Pre-Surgery Weight: 425 lbs.
9. Insurance or Self-Pay: Insurance
10. What is the name of the insurance company that covered your WLS (if
applicable): medicaid
11. Birthdate: Nov. 6th, 2007
12. Occupation: Don't work.
13. Married or Single (if married what is your spouses name?):
Single & live alone.
14. Do you have children? If so, what are their names?
4 Daughters, Stella/28--Tee-tee/ (will be 25 DEC. 2nd)--Carolisa/ will be 22
Nov. 15th--"Lizabeth"/ 20 yrs.
15. Hobbies: Latch Hook rug making, reading, writing, ETC...
I try to stay busy during the day since I am home all the time.
16. Anything else you would like to share with other members:
My Good friend is naomi who is also on here.

I am Carol I know my Good Friend Naomi, Thanks Naomi for inviting me
here, I know I will enjoy it.
& Thank you for posting about my Daughter on here too, she is fine
Physically so is baby the baby only needs Oxygen but she still upset.
Carol :):)

That's it!!! I had them quite a few times the first 3 mos. Sometimes it was
a pill, sometimes it was meat. Sometimes it was next to nothing. Be careful
for about 24 hrs after. Sometimes I would just sip warm tea for 8 hrs till
everything calmed down. Naomi
Lora <cicerogirl@...
described, I think I had the foamies last
night. Last night I took my iron pill -- it's a big one, and too fat
for my pill cutter to handle, but it's usually no problem -- with 2
swallows of water. Everything felt fine. A little bit later, I had
about 1/3 of a protein bar. The first few small bites were fine and
then it felt like something was stuck and my mouth started to water
like crazy and wouldn't stop. I wasn't sure what to do -- it didn't
hurt, but was uncomfortable and a little scary -- so I finally took a
sip of water. No change. I just ended up waiting for it to pass
(less than 10 minutes).
Foamies...?
Lora

Good Morning,
I get an email daily from Hungry Girl. I don't know who sponsors the
email, but I found the link at Womans Day dot com. The emails
usually give points values, so I assume they may relate some how to
WeightWatchers. I thought some of you might be interested in this
little bit I have included. Have a good day!!
Cute vitamin alert! If you like your vitamins cartoony and chewable
(we do!), check out this line from St. Hill Pharmaceutical featuring
The Simpsons. The sugar-free chewable vitamins come in several
flavors and varieties -- there's the standard daily multivitamin
formula in Grape, Orange and Cherry-Berry; Extra C Formula in
Strawberry; and Berry Squirts Omega 3 Formula (which we assume is
berry-flavored!). There's also the Germ Defense Effervescent Health
Formula ones, which are sugar-free fizzy tablets that you drop into
water, in Fruit Punch. And coming soon are the Calcium Formula in
Chocolate, the Iron Formula , and Sugar Free Multivitamin Strips
(they dissolve on your tongue) in Watermelon. This line may be geared
toward the kiddies, but we still think it's eeeexcellent
***A recently published study shows that the rate at which your body
burns fat could be elevated if you break up your long cardio
sessions. The researchers found that breaking up a 60-minute
treadmill workout into two 30-minute ones (with a 20-minute break in
between) caused study participants to burn more fat than they did
during one super-long session. If this really works, THAT ROCKS!
Wanna read more? Click here!
***A study conducted by Newcastle University (in the UK) suggests
that organic fruits and vegetables can contain as much as 40% more
antioxidants than non-organic ones. For more on that, click here.
***Vitasoy holiday beverage time! Just a reminder that Vitasoy's
super-delicious holiday beverages (Holly Nog and Peppermint
Chocolate) are hitting shelves NOW. They have 120 - 140 calories and
2 - 4g fat per cup (POINTS® value 3*), so we usually use just a few
ounces of 'em to spike our coffee. SOOO GOOOD! Look for them on
shelves with the other non-refrigerated boxed soymilks in
supermarkets, specialty shops, and natural foods stores. That's all
we've got. HG out!

Carol and I have the same dr. She lives app 1 hour away from me. I
must admit, I quit the other board and don't read their posts. I
really didn't understand their banning. I know it was their right,
but I just feel it was unfounded and should have been dealt with
differently. For my own sanity, I just moved on.
I feel horrible about Carol. I will contact her immediately and I
hope the moderators send her an invite to join us. Naomi--- In

As I said before, I am currently scheduled for surgery in Brussels on
February 10th. After further consideration, I decided to go with Dr. M and
wrote to him about taking me on as a patient.
I was a bit anxious because I had to leave last Sunday for a business trip
in Germany this last week. But I managed to get on to my mail, and he
answered me last Sunday evening (as I had been told he probably would -
forget by whom, but you were right!) Well, to quit beating around the
bush......
My new surgery date is January 19th!
YAYYYYYYYYYYYYYY!!!!!!!!!!!
I literally burst into tears when I read his email, I was that happy. Now,
I am in FRANTIC mode. I have to fill out Dr. M's paperwork, take pics, get
a visa, book a flight, make sure I can take the time off work then rather
then later, etc etc etc.....but I am happy beyond belief!
Once I had made this decision, I knew it was the right decision. And
typical me, once I have made up my mind, I am anxious to move along.
Flights during January are a bit steeper then flights after February 1st,
but even with that added cost, I am still coming out far cheaper then the
cost of having it done in Belgium. And the sooner, the better!
I just wanted you all to know how happy I am, and how glad I am that I found
this group. I had joined the group not because of Dr. M, but because I had
heard about it on the DuodenalSwitch group, and thought joining would give
me access to more info. It was the thread about "$12,000" budgets that got
me to thinking, and also how you all spoke about Dr. M that made me rethink
my plans and explore others. I am so glad I did.
Did I mention how happy I am? :-)
Pam

From the way I've heard them described, I think I had the foamies last
night. Last night I took my iron pill -- it's a big one, and too fat
for my pill cutter to handle, but it's usually no problem -- with 2
swallows of water. Everything felt fine. A little bit later, I had
about 1/3 of a protein bar. The first few small bites were fine and
then it felt like something was stuck and my mouth started to water
like crazy and wouldn't stop. I wasn't sure what to do -- it didn't
hurt, but was uncomfortable and a little scary -- so I finally took a
sip of water. No change. I just ended up waiting for it to pass
(less than 10 minutes).
Foamies...?
Lora

Hey you guys,
Carol just posted this message on the other board:
I need Prayers Please for my baby gurl "lizabeth" she had a seizure
whil