Newbie
Hi everyone! <br>My name is MIchelle and I was
approved for the Mini Gastric Bypass two days ago. I am
scheduled to have my surgery on Dec 1, 1999. I am so happy,
yet I am nervous and scared. Almost scared I will
sabtoge this or that it won’t work for me. Anyone that
would be willing to share there experiences with me…I
am here. Anyone else besides Amber that used Dr
Rutledge in NC??? I look forward to talking to all of
you!<br><br>Michelle
August 6th, 2003 at 8:59 am
Hiya Michelle! Welcome to the group. I didn’t
have a mini bypass, not exactly sure what that is, I
had an open rny. But if there are ever any questions
that you want answered, you are in the right place!!
Best of luck to you!!! :)<br>~Laura~
August 6th, 2003 at 7:41 pm
Hi Laura!<br>Sorry…I should have made it a
little clearer!! LOL<br>I am having the RNY Gastric
Bypass (via LAP) on Dec 1. Dr Rutledge in NC calls it
the MIni Gastric Bypass. Sorry for the confusion.
Thanks so much for responding to my post. I was
begininng to feel all alone! HA! HA! <br>Can you tell me a
little about your experience? <br><br>Thanks and speak
to you soon<br>Michelle
August 7th, 2003 at 10:25 pm
Michelle,<br>Me? Pretty?!? Beautiful? You are my new best
friend!<br>teehee!<br>Laura
August 8th, 2003 at 3:46 am
SILLLLLLLY!!!!
August 8th, 2003 at 2:27 pm
Hi guys, just wanted to clear up this confusion,
if I can. Mini Gastric Bypass and Lap RnY are not
the same thing. The mini Gastric Bypass does not have
the "Y" connection in the small intestines, but
rather, uses a loop of the small intestine and attaches
it directly to the stomach pouch. Dr. Rutledge’s
site has a diagram of it. My site has a diagram of the
RnY, if you are interested.
www.geocities.com/karagory/wls.html<br>I also posted an updated photo of
myself.<br>Lynn
August 8th, 2003 at 7:48 pm
Does anyone know how to change my personal
information that shows at the top of my posts? It still says
I am 30, but I turned 31 in August. I have never
been one to lie about my age, but I can’t figure out
how to change it!<br>Thanks, Lynn
August 9th, 2003 at 5:11 pm
Hi Lynn!<br>Click on my name in blue at the top
of this message. That will open up my profile. At
the top it says "My profiles".. click on it and click
edit next to your name.. it will let you change your
information there. <br><br>Hugs,<br>Laura
March 29th, 2005 at 9:46 am
Hi I am new to this group and what like to find out about obesity
surgery in the Toronto, Canada area. I live about an hour east of
Toronto and wondered if anyone had information on Clinics or Surgeons
around here.
Thanks
Linda
November 26th, 2005 at 1:23 pm
Hello everyone!! I’d like to introduce myself. My name is Cat, I’m
married, with 2 kids, a 10yo son & a 5yo daughter. I’m from Indiana,
but will be traveling 4 hours to Ohio for wls. I am going through
the Bariatric Treatment Center. I’m scheduled for pre-addmission
tests on Monday, and will be having my surgery on April 11th. I am
looking forward to starting a "new" life, a thinner, healthier, more
energetic life!! I am "freaking out" a bit too. Going through all
the "what ifs", you know, "what if this happens" & "what if that
happens", but I’m sure it’s all normal stuff that most pre ops go
through. I am looking forward to getting to know everyone, & hope to
get lots of advice from all the post ops!! Thanks for listening to
me ramble, lol.
~ Cat S.
Pre Op 4/11/03
Dr. Adolph / BTC Ohio
November 26th, 2005 at 7:52 pm
Hello and Welcome Cat my name is Meka,I’m having my
surgery April 10th and guess what? I’m having the same
thoughts you are..lol meka
November 27th, 2005 at 12:04 am
Meka ~ It’s good to know I’m not alone, lol.
~ Cat S.
Pre Op 4/11/03
Dr. Adolph / BTC Ohio
November 27th, 2005 at 6:33 am
No at one time I was thinking about changing my mind
but everytime I get to that point I just pray about it
and then I’m ok..meka
February 25th, 2006 at 1:32 am
Hi, I am new to this support group and am hoping to learn lots about
surgery. Just had my first visit with my Surgeon but didn’t learn
much because he was very busy to say the least. I am from Ottawa,
Canada and I was hoping to hear from others from Canada.
February 25th, 2006 at 8:27 am
Hi, I am new to this support group and am hoping to learn lots about
surgery. Just had my first visit with my Surgeon but didn’t learn
much because he was very busy to say the least. I am from Ottawa,
Canada and I was hoping to hear from others from Canada.
February 25th, 2006 at 5:18 pm
There are a few of us from Ottawa on the list.
February 28th, 2006 at 2:54 am
Hello everyone. I am new to this group and wanted to introduce
myself. My name is Tanya, I’m 33, married with children, live near
Houston TX and have recently (one week ago today!) had a Lap RNY. I
went through the process for nearly a year before getting lucky
enough to have surgery. I was also lucky enough to have the Texas
Rehabilitation Commission pay for it. Did you know that obesity is a
disability? And it is also cause for discrimination? I found out a
lot of things about this problem during my research and information
is in abundance!
Anyway, I just wanted to shout out my hellos and see how everyone
was. Hope I can contribute something to this board as well.
Tanya
February 28th, 2006 at 10:52 am
I’m still in the very early stages of the process but congrats on having the
surgery…..good lucky on a speedy recovery and i am sure I will have a
million questions for you….lol
Ruby
——-Original Message——-
Hello everyone. I am new to this group and wanted to introduce
myself. My name is Tanya, I’m 33, married with children, live near
Houston TX and have recently (one week ago today!) had a Lap RNY. I
went through the process for nearly a year before getting lucky
enough to have surgery. I was also lucky enough to have the Texas
Rehabilitation Commission pay for it. Did you know that obesity is a
disability? And it is also cause for discrimination? I found out a
lot of things about this problem during my research and information
is in abundance!
Anyway, I just wanted to shout out my hellos and see how everyone
was. Hope I can contribute something to this board as well.
Tanya
February 28th, 2006 at 7:41 pm
Ruby,
Feel free to ask anything you want! I only wish I had joined this group
BEFORE my surgery Lol.
Tanya in Tx
March 23rd, 2006 at 10:58 pm
HI ALL MY NAME IS TAMI, IM HAVING THE RNY ON AUGUST 21 AT THE
UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO? HAS ANYONE HAD THERE SURGERY AT THE UIC?
May 7th, 2006 at 1:34 am
Hello -
I just want to introduce myself. I’m 53 and am thinking about the
surgery. My husband is against it primary because of the risks, but
I really, really would like to get this weight OFF! And keep it off
for good.
What I really need to know is just exactly what I can expect to be
able to eat say six months post op, 12 months, and say 3 years down
the road. I’ve having a hard time regarding the food issues,
especially what you cannot eat. I can live with only very, very
small amounts of food if the stomach was full, but "never, ever" on
some of my favorite foods is a bit of a problem. Do you just lose
your taste for some of your old favorites or what??? If not, what
do you do to deal with it.
I have already talked with a registered dietician who has had the
surgury herself, but she is only 9 months post op. I have also
contacted a surgery team for their informatio packet so I can read
up on this. I guess I just need to know that someday I could have
that taste of vanilla, or a couple of bites of my favorite
porterhouse steak. If not, I need to know before I commit myself to
surgery. (Mental adjustments will need to be made.)
Thank you for your input.
May 7th, 2006 at 7:43 am
Hello and welcome to the group.
Your husband needs to be aware that the risks of being over weight out number
the risk of surgery. In my opinion it really matters where you go for
treatment.
As far as what to "expect" what do you mean by that? You really just go on
your way with life. You loose the weight and move forward.
The biggest issue I had was giving up refined sugars - cakes, pies and
cookies. You’ll still be able to eat virtually all of your favorite foods but
you will stay away from foods really high in fat and/or sugars. Natural sugars
are fine. You can still have your porterhouse just not a 24 oz one
Your so right about the mental adjustments that have to be made. It’s hard.
Your eyes are bigger than your stomach…I almost felt as though I lost a good
friend - food. I got over losing him and you will too. It sounds like you have
already took the first step by requesting the info on WLS and that’s great to
hear.
Good luck!
Jason
>>> ejreed50 09/07/03 11:40PM >>>
Hello -
I just want to introduce myself. I’m 53 and am thinking about the
surgery. My husband is against it primary because of the risks, but
I really, really would like to get this weight OFF! And keep it off
for good.
What I really need to know is just exactly what I can expect to be
able to eat say six months post op, 12 months, and say 3 years down
the road. I’ve having a hard time regarding the food issues,
especially what you cannot eat. I can live with only very, very
small amounts of food if the stomach was full, but "never, ever" on
some of my favorite foods is a bit of a problem. Do you just lose
your taste for some of your old favorites or what??? If not, what
do you do to deal with it.
I have already talked with a registered dietician who has had the
surgury herself, but she is only 9 months post op. I have also
contacted a surgery team for their informatio packet so I can read
up on this. I guess I just need to know that someday I could have
that taste of vanilla, or a couple of bites of my favorite
porterhouse steak. If not, I need to know before I commit myself to
surgery. (Mental adjustments will need to be made.)
Thank you for your input.
May 7th, 2006 at 2:01 pm
I’m 9 months out and can eat anything I used to eat, just smaller amounts of
it. Does that help? Now, there are some things I don’t think I "should"
eat - <G> but I can eat it all <sigh>. I have a proximal rny and don’t
even dump on sugars or fats. <double sigh>
You may find that you prefer filet mignon to porterhouse (filet sort of
melts in your mouth) - you can have vanilla in your protein shakes, or your
flan made with splenda and vanilla.
Hello -
I just want to introduce myself. I’m 53 and am thinking about the
surgery. My husband is against it primary because of the risks, but
I really, really would like to get this weight OFF! And keep it off
for good.
What I really need to know is just exactly what I can expect to be
able to eat say six months post op, 12 months, and say 3 years down
the road. I’ve having a hard time regarding the food issues,
especially what you cannot eat. I can live with only very, very
small amounts of food if the stomach was full, but "never, ever" on
some of my favorite foods is a bit of a problem. Do you just lose
your taste for some of your old favorites or what??? If not, what
do you do to deal with it.
I have already talked with a registered dietician who has had the
surgury herself, but she is only 9 months post op. I have also
contacted a surgery team for their informatio packet so I can read
up on this. I guess I just need to know that someday I could have
that taste of vanilla, or a couple of bites of my favorite
porterhouse steak. If not, I need to know before I commit myself to
surgery. (Mental adjustments will need to be made.)
Thank you for your input.
May 7th, 2006 at 4:51 pm
There are risks for any surgery that anesthesia is used — at one time they
put me under for ear tubes — I was at much risk to die for that especially
if you are obese and going under general anesthesia. The risk is worth it
and the need/want/love of food is gone — I eat minimally but am not hungry.
. I had about 200 extra pounds on my body — you cant say that is healthy–
at least I am over half way to loosing it.
c dylla
HUTCHINSON HOSPITAL
DR. REMUCAL
R-N-Y 03/11/03
HIGHEST WEIGHT 368
SURGERY WEIGHT 350
06/15/03 282
08/11/03 252 == 5 month went fast
08/22/03 243
——-Original Message——-
Hello -
I just want to introduce myself. I’m 53 and am thinking about the
surgery. My husband is against it primary because of the risks, but
I really, really would like to get this weight OFF! And keep it off
for good.
What I really need to know is just exactly what I can expect to be
able to eat say six months post op, 12 months, and say 3 years down
the road. I’ve having a hard time regarding the food issues,
especially what you cannot eat. I can live with only very, very
small amounts of food if the stomach was full, but "never, ever" on
some of my favorite foods is a bit of a problem. Do you just lose
your taste for some of your old favorites or what??? If not, what
do you do to deal with it.
I have already talked with a registered dietician who has had the
surgury herself, but she is only 9 months post op. I have also
contacted a surgery team for their informatio packet so I can read
up on this. I guess I just need to know that someday I could have
that taste of vanilla, or a couple of bites of my favorite
porterhouse steak. If not, I need to know before I commit myself to
surgery. (Mental adjustments will need to be made.)
Thank you for your input.
June 18th, 2006 at 9:24 am
Hi,
I’m Cathy and I am scheduled for WLS in January 2004. I live in
Northern VA (Springfield) and have Kaiser insurance. They do all the
pre op evaluations and only send you to a George Washington
University Hospital surgeon for the actual surgery. I went to a
nutritionist with Kaiser for 6 months before the approval. She was
nice, but from what I am seeing in these posts, I did not get near
enough information about what to do about diet and vitamins. I went
to a Staple Club meeting last night in Woodbridge, VA, but that
seemed to be a free-for-all with 60 some folks there and no real
direction to the meeting. I realize I am not prepared for what to do
and that Kaiser doesn’t know how to educate folks for this new WOL.
I wonder if anyone knows of a small support group or someone in my
area who would mentor me?
Cathy
LapRNY/Jan 04
GW Univ/Dr Brody
June 18th, 2006 at 5:38 pm
Hi Cathy,
Thanks for emailing me. I’m a newbie who is scheduled to have surgery around
the end of November. I am going through the "Wish Center" here in Washington
State and it is really well organized. They assign you a nutritionist,
psychologist, exercise consultant, financial officer, and set you up with a
liason who has been through the whole thing. They also make you go through many
hours of seminars to educate you prior to surgery. They also have a support
group..but it is too far for me to travel at night.
I will be glad to be a support person for you as I go through this thing. I’m
no expert but I’m sure I will be one soon. I also am going to attend a support
group here in Seattle called Disappearing Acts. I already talked to the
moderator on the phone and she has been very informative. For example, I didn’t
even think when my doctor said he would repair a small hernia during the surgery
that I should ask him to wait on that so my insurance would pay for it and a
tummy tuck at the same time after I lose the weight. The insurance won’t pay
for a tummy tuck in itself, but with a hernia repair they will.
The vitamins I’m taking are: Flintstones multi, Solaray B complex, and Soaray
Calcium Citrate. All chewables. The surgeon said I need to get used to taking
them prior to surgery and for the rest of my life.
I hope someone can suggest a good support group for you. I think that after I
talked with my support group moderator, I felt a lot better. Like I wasn’t all
alone in this thing.
Good Luck, and write me soon and let me know how your doing.
Melva
Cathy
LapRNY/Jan 04
GW Univ/Dr Brody
June 18th, 2006 at 9:50 pm
Just a thought…. check to be sure the hernia is something that can wait. I
had a paraesophageal hernia that had to be repaired at the time of my surgery
because it could strangulate the stomach post-op. But if it can wait, yes.
This is an excellent idea.
Pam in Niceville
June 19th, 2006 at 3:50 am
i had a question that i wanted to see if someone can answer.Can you have kids
after a tummytuck?
June 19th, 2006 at 7:35 am
Yes you can.
i had a question that i wanted to see if someone can answer.Can you have kids
after a tummytuck?
ADVERTISEMENT
June 19th, 2006 at 3:01 pm
Pam,
Thank you for the advise. My hernia is just in my belly button from a previous
gall bladder lap surgery. I don’t think it is too serious, but will check with
my doctor. He may have to repair it because I have a feeling he is planning on
using the same spot for my lap rny. I have it on my list of questions for my
next visit.
Melva
June 19th, 2006 at 7:14 pm
He’ll know, for sure. I have had both lap galbladder and lap RNY. They
actually used different "holes" - but each doc is a little different.
Pam
June 20th, 2006 at 1:43 am
Pam,
Interesting. Now I should have 10 holes. Cool. Maybe I’ll feel like I have
air conditioning. That would be nice as I’ve been experiencing a lot of "Hot
Flashes" this year.
Melva
He’ll know, for sure. I have had both lap galbladder and lap RNY. They
actually used different "holes" - but each doc is a little different.
Pam
June 20th, 2006 at 5:55 am
Mine are more like - well, the gallbladders are now just little white lines,
the 5 from my RNY look like colace pills <G>
Pam
June 20th, 2006 at 12:24 pm
Pam,
So did you get a tummy tuck? How long since your surgery? How much have you
lost?
Any problems learning to eat small amounts?
Melva
Mine are more like - well, the gallbladders are now just little white lines,
the 5 from my RNY look like colace pills <G>
Pam
June 20th, 2006 at 4:37 pm
I’m not to goal yet, so haven’t had a tummy tuck. I had my surgery last Nov
20, and have lost just over 80 lbs, so it’s been a slow process, compared to
some. And if I let myself compare myself to some, I’d probably feel not so
hot. I’ve had to actively "diet" since about 6 months out. But the difference
here is that I can do so. The weight comes off. I’m not majorley hungry. I’m
working with my tool. This is a big difference between now and a year ago. I
know how to maintain my weight really well now <G>.
I had no problem learning to eat small amounts, but my first month I ate off
seafood forks and demitasse spoons until I got the size of the bite right. And
I would always chew to "pureed" - and chew it again <G>. and then wait a
minute or so to see how it "sat". Because, of course, if you eat too big a
bite, it HURTS, or comes back up. At 11 months out, I can eat larger bites,
but I still chew my food reallly well. Something I never did pre-op. I
inhaled food, then. Now I savor it.
I’m now about 18 lbs from my surgeon’s goal and about 38 lbs from my goal. I’m
very optimistic that the weight will finish it’s "trip" -
My first round of plastics is scheduled for December in Costa Rica. Since I’m
56, I’ll need almost EVERYTHING done. They really want you to be at goal and
stabilized - which is sensible, because the skin does change and the weight
does shift a bit - and I don’t know that I will be. But since it’s the high
season, and I work at a college with limited time off, I had to go ahead and
make plane reservations in June. So, we’ll see what they’ll do when I get
there. I’m hoping that they’ll start on the face, which won’t change a lot if
I lose an extra 10 or 15 lbs. I’ve got 3 weeks set aside to heal there. I’ve
always known it would take me at least 2 years to do my plastics, so I’m not
worried if I don’t get it all done this year. Fortunately, no one sees me out
of my clothes except my cats <G>.
I’ll post pictures when it’s all done. <G>
Pam
June 20th, 2006 at 11:06 pm
Pam,
Seventy pounds is really good. Where did you start from? I think the more you
weight the faster it comes off at first. If you were under 300lbs to start then
you are probably right on target.
Why are you going to Costa Rica for your plastic surgery? Is it cheaper?
I plan to use one of the surgeons around here. I’m also thinking of an eyelid
lift. I get mistaken for a mean old lady because my eyes make me look that way.
I keep telling people I’m Happy…they don’t believe me.
They say it takes about two years to lose all the weight. I guess I’ll just keep
researching after my surgery till I make up my mind how much, when and where.
I’m 52 and I miss being in shape and looking good. My teenager won’t let me
forget how fat I am now. She is a very slender tall girl who is a bit stuck on
herself. I’m sure it will change with time. Someday she will understand the
pain of getting fat and old.
I’m doing it for myself. I’m tired of looking in the mirror seeing this strange
dumpy person. I sure let myself go, these last 15 years.
Well thanks for your info on eating. Using small forks and spoons is a good
idea.
bye for now.
Melva
I’m not to goal yet, so haven’t had a tummy tuck. I had my surgery last Nov
20, and have lost just over 80 lbs, so it’s been a slow process, compared to
some. And if I let myself compare myself to some, I’d probably feel not so
hot. I’ve had to actively "diet" since about 6 months out. But the difference
here is that I can do so. The weight comes off. I’m not majorley hungry. I’m
working with my tool. This is a big difference between now and a year ago. I
know how to maintain my weight really well now <G>.
I had no problem learning to eat small amounts, but my first month I ate off
seafood forks and demitasse spoons until I got the size of the bite right. And
I would always chew to "pureed" - and chew it again <G>. and then wait a
minute or so to see how it "sat". Because, of course, if you eat too big a
bite, it HURTS, or comes back up. At 11 months out, I can eat larger bites,
but I still chew my food reallly well. Something I never did pre-op. I
inhaled food, then. Now I savor it.
I’m now about 18 lbs from my surgeon’s goal and about 38 lbs from my goal. I’m
very optimistic that the weight will finish it’s "trip" -
My first round of plastics is scheduled for December in Costa Rica. Since I’m
56, I’ll need almost EVERYTHING done. They really want you to be at goal and
stabilized - which is sensible, because the skin does change and the weight
does shift a bit - and I don’t know that I will be. But since it’s the high
season, and I work at a college with limited time off, I had to go ahead and
make plane reservations in June. So, we’ll see what they’ll do when I get
there. I’m hoping that they’ll start on the face, which won’t change a lot if
I lose an extra 10 or 15 lbs. I’ve got 3 weeks set aside to heal there. I’ve
always known it would take me at least 2 years to do my plastics, so I’m not
worried if I don’t get it all done this year. Fortunately, no one sees me out
of my clothes except my cats <G>.
I’ll post pictures when it’s all done. <G>
Pam
June 21st, 2006 at 3:18 am
Pam,
Seventy pounds is really good. Where did you start from? I think the more
you weight the faster it comes off at first. If you were under 300lbs to
start then you are probably right on target.
Why are you going to Costa Rica for your plastic surgery? Is it cheaper?
I plan to use one of the surgeons around here. I’m also thinking of an
eyelid lift. I get mistaken for a mean old lady because my eyes make me
look that way. I keep telling people I’m Happy…they don’t believe me.
They say it takes about two years to lose all the weight. I guess I’ll just
keep researching after my surgery till I make up my mind how much, when and
where. I’m 52 and I miss being in shape and looking good. My teenager
won’t let me forget how fat I am now. She is a very slender tall girl who
is a bit stuck on herself. I’m sure it will change with time. Someday she
will understand the pain of getting fat and old.
I’m doing it for myself. I’m tired of looking in the mirror seeing this
strange dumpy person. I sure let myself go, these last 15 years.
Well thanks for your info on eating. Using small forks and spoons is a good
idea.
bye for now.
Melva
I’m not to goal yet, so haven’t had a tummy tuck. I had my surgery last Nov
20, and have lost just over 80 lbs, so it’s been a slow process, compared to
some. And if I let myself compare myself to some, I’d probably feel not so
hot. I’ve had to actively "diet" since about 6 months out. But the
difference
here is that I can do so. The weight comes off. I’m not majorley hungry.
I’m
working with my tool. This is a big difference between now and a year ago.
I
know how to maintain my weight really well now <G>.
I had no problem learning to eat small amounts, but my first month I ate off
seafood forks and demitasse spoons until I got the size of the bite right.
And
I would always chew to "pureed" - and chew it again <G>. and then wait a
minute or so to see how it "sat". Because, of course, if you eat too big a
bite, it HURTS, or comes back up. At 11 months out, I can eat larger bites,
but I still chew my food reallly well. Something I never did pre-op. I
inhaled food, then. Now I savor it.
I’m now about 18 lbs from my surgeon’s goal and about 38 lbs from my goal.
I’m
very optimistic that the weight will finish it’s "trip" -
My first round of plastics is scheduled for December in Costa Rica. Since
I’m
56, I’ll need almost EVERYTHING done. They really want you to be at goal
and
stabilized - which is sensible, because the skin does change and the weight
does shift a bit - and I don’t know that I will be. But since it’s the high
season, and I work at a college with limited time off, I had to go ahead and
make plane reservations in June. So, we’ll see what they’ll do when I get
there. I’m hoping that they’ll start on the face, which won’t change a lot
if
I lose an extra 10 or 15 lbs. I’ve got 3 weeks set aside to heal there.
I’ve
always known it would take me at least 2 years to do my plastics, so I’m not
worried if I don’t get it all done this year. Fortunately, no one sees me
out
of my clothes except my cats <G>.
I’ll post pictures when it’s all done. <G>
Pam
June 21st, 2006 at 9:02 am
hi
just one question what is CR and how much does that
cost? I have lost 120 LBS so far I had my surgery
April 3 this year. Feeling real well not taking any
meds anymore just vitamins. Have a real problem with
taking protein though. I started out at 360LBS and now
im at 250 my kids say that my shulders are bony now
and i have no butt.well please let me know? thanks
=====
LOVE YA
SHARON
June 21st, 2006 at 2:00 pm
hi
just one question what is CR and how much does that
cost? I have lost 120 LBS so far I had my surgery
April 3 this year. Feeling real well not taking any
meds anymore just vitamins. Have a real problem with
taking protein though. I started out at 360LBS and now
im at 250 my kids say that my shulders are bony now
and i have no butt.well please let me know? thanks
=====
LOVE YA
SHARON
June 21st, 2006 at 7:33 pm
Hello to All, I have been reading for about a month now. Trying to try
and get things straight in my mind.
Iam from Pa. I will be going to Pittsburgh. I sent my paper
work in last may. Well i finally got an appointment for the work shop
on tuesday 7th. I know i have a lot longer to wait. Here it is the 3rd
and i don’t know who will be going with me. My husband says he hasn’t
made up his mind if he will go or not. My one daughter got called back
to work, she would have went. Not one of my family want me to do this. I
think they are only thinking of themselves. They won’t even talk to me
about it.
I sure don’t know very much about what the workshop consists
of. Is any one here from Pa? Or had surgery at Magree Womans Hospital?
October 10th, 2006 at 12:27 am
Hi!
My name is Debi, I live in NH, and I am considering coming to NYC for BPD/DS
with Dr Herron. I am 51, near 400 lbs, 5′3", have pcos, asthma, depression
diabetes, a bad back, and my knees/hips are going bad. I recently had to take
an early retirement because of my health.
I can’t have my surgery in my area, because the docs don’t want to deal with the
malnutrition issues associated with this surgery (wimps). I feel this is the
best option for me. I have been researching for over 2 years. I even met Dr
Herron when he was still at Mt Sinai. I have had a couple of setbacks, but just
received the ok from my docs to continue my journey. I just need my hubby to
get healthy so he can chauffer me around. I am a terrible driver. Everyone in
my family trembles when I hit the road. I often get volunteers when I need to
run an errand. And yes, I used to be a blonde.
I hope I can be as supportive to the members of this group as I know you will be
of me. Thanks for being here. debi
October 13th, 2006 at 11:05 am
Hi Debi! I’m new to this group and I too live in NH. I’m also new to the
I know NH is a good size state and we
I wish you the best of luck in
Maybe it’s a NH thing. 
~Kristin
whole endeavor and am concerned with what you said about the Dr’s not
allowing you to do the procedure in our area because of the malnutrition
issues. Did you see many Dr’s about this issue and if so were there any
that I shouldn’t waste my time on.
may be at opposite ends but if I knew what Dr’s to look out for just in case
we’re close it would be a great help.
your journey and a speedy recovery for your husband!! And hey, I’ve never
been blonde and my husband thinks I’m the worst driver in the world.
October 13th, 2006 at 1:18 pm
I have known people with common channels of 40 inches who are in
good health! But they have to supplement and take extra vitamins,
minerals and protein. If you don’t supplement, you will have
malnutrition issues, particularly with a DS or another distal
procedures.
Pam in Niceville
Hi Debi! I’m new to this group and I too live in NH. I’m also new
I know NH is a good size
I wish you the best of
Maybe it’s a NH thing. 
~Kristin
to the
whole endeavor and am concerned with what you said about the Dr’s
not
allowing you to do the procedure in our area because of the
malnutrition
issues. Did you see many Dr’s about this issue and if so were there
any
that I shouldn’t waste my time on.
state and we
may be at opposite ends but if I knew what Dr’s to look out for just
in case
we’re close it would be a great help.
luck in
your journey and a speedy recovery for your husband!! And hey, I’ve
never
been blonde and my husband thinks I’m the worst driver in the world.
October 16th, 2006 at 12:27 am
Welcome, I am originally from NH. Now live in GA and had surgery on
12-23-03. I am fealing great and am not sorry at all. I had open
roux-n-y. Only sick 1 time and I think I just ate too fast.
Remembering to chew and slow is not always easy. At my one week check
I had lost 16 lbs. Cant wait to start exercisingto get things going
even better. Hope your journey is a good one. Best of Lusk Luanne
October 16th, 2006 at 4:09 pm
Congratulations, Luanne. Yep, too fast or too much (which basically
work out to the same thing <G>) will cause tossing cookies. Sounds
like you’re well on the road to recovery.
Pam
_____
Welcome, I am originally from NH. Now live in GA and had surgery on
12-23-03. I am fealing great and am not sorry at all. I had open
roux-n-y. Only sick 1 time and I think I just ate too fast.
Remembering to chew and slow is not always easy. At my one week
check
I had lost 16 lbs. Cant wait to start exercisingto get things going
even better. Hope your journey is a good one. Best of Lusk Luanne
ADVERTISEMENT
_____
October 18th, 2006 at 3:22 am
Congratulations Luanne! Funny that you used to live in NH and now live in
I hate thinking that I have even more weight to gain but I guess
To save money to get into a house that we’re
GA. My husband loves GA and we stand a pretty good chance of moving there
also. Well all, I thank you so much for your kind words of encouragement
over my whole week as a member. It looks as though I’m going to have to put
my New Years resolution on hold until next New Years because I just found
out today that I’m pregnant. I thought my surprises ended at Christmas
time.
it just gives me that much more time for research. That should give me a
total of two and a half years (on and off) of research…by then I should be
able to perform it myself.
looking at one of the things that we’re going to be getting rid of is our
internet connection. So, I just wanted to thank you all and wish you all
the success!!! Best of luck and I’ll be back!!! ~Kristin
October 18th, 2006 at 10:55 am
Best of luck!
Pam in Niceville
_____
Congratulations Luanne! Funny that you used to live in NH and now
I hate thinking that I have even more weight to gain but I
To save money to get into a house
live in
GA. My husband loves GA and we stand a pretty good chance of moving
there
also. Well all, I thank you so much for your kind words of
encouragement
over my whole week as a member. It looks as though I’m going to
have to put
my New Years resolution on hold until next New Years because I just
found
out today that I’m pregnant. I thought my surprises ended at
Christmas
time.
guess
it just gives me that much more time for research. That should give
me a
total of two and a half years (on and off) of research…by then I
should be
able to perform it myself.
that we’re
looking at one of the things that we’re going to be getting rid of
is our
internet connection. So, I just wanted to thank you all and wish
you all
the success!!! Best of luck and I’ll be back!!! ~Kristin
_____
October 19th, 2006 at 8:23 am
Congrats on your post op success. I am a newbie and have scheduled all my
necessary appointments.
Kitty
October 21st, 2006 at 2:28 pm
Hi Kristen!
What wonderful news!!!! Best of luck to you and your little family. Some
people actually lose weight when pregnant because baby takes so much nutrition.
God bless and keep you all in His care, debi
March 31st, 2007 at 3:37 pm
Hi everyone I am Jen 31, married mom to 3 wonderful children. An
almost 8 yo son and twin girls 2 1/2. We live in Maine and have 2
dogs, a cat and salt water fish.
I have started the gastric bypass process after well almost 8 years
of dieting and pills. I weigh 265 and am 5′4 1/2. My lowest weight
when I met dh was 165. As far as medical concerns they are just as
much getting old as overweight, arthritis, knee pains border line
high cholesterol, yeast infections etc.
Hmm I think thats is it oh and this is the third group I have joined
the first 2 had alot of spam and unwanted single ads etc. I look
forward to getting to know everyone! Jen
March 31st, 2007 at 11:00 pm
Welcome to the group Jen, I am Miki in NM. Just had my gastric bypass
surgery on 6 Dec 04 and weighed 350. I am still ill and had trouble with
infections and not sewn up yet. So I am home and hubby is taking excellent care
of
me. I hope to get butterflied up on Monday after Christmas. Have lost over 30
pounds so far, but can’t exercise or walk or anything with my insides hanging
out. LOL But, I pray it will get better quickly. This is the journey I
signed on for, just not this extreme of a journey.
Miki in NM
April 1st, 2007 at 4:03 am
Welcome, Jen. A long process, I know, but a fruitful one. If you have any
questions, don’t hesitate to ask.
Take care,
Pam in Niceville
Hi everyone I am Jen 31, married mom to 3 wonderful children. An
almost 8 yo son and twin girls 2 1/2. We live in Maine and have 2
dogs, a cat and salt water fish.
I have started the gastric bypass process after well almost 8 years
of dieting and pills. I weigh 265 and am 5′4 1/2. My lowest weight
when I met dh was 165. As far as medical concerns they are just as
much getting old as overweight, arthritis, knee pains border line
high cholesterol, yeast infections etc.
Hmm I think thats is it oh and this is the third group I have joined
the first 2 had alot of spam and unwanted single ads etc. I look
forward to getting to know everyone! Jen
ADVERTISEMENT
_____
April 1st, 2007 at 10:09 am
Miki, Well I certainly hope things start to get better, wow 30 pounds your
journey is well on its way!! Jen
April 1st, 2007 at 3:29 pm
Welcome, Jen. A long process, I know, but a fruitful one. If you have any
questions, don’t hesitate to ask.
Take care,
Pam in Niceville
April 1st, 2007 at 8:06 pm
Boy, I understand that. I ultimately had to self-pay mine. Two years ago it
came to about 22k, don’t know what it would be today.
Pam in Niceville
"I’m not the postmaster, I’m some poor bastard who’s the victim of some
stupid … experiment. What a place! What a situation! What kind of man
would put a known criminal in charge of a major branch of government? Apart
from, say, the average voter." Terry Pratchett - Going Postal
_____
Welcome, Jen. A long process, I know, but a fruitful one. If you have any
questions, don’t hesitate to ask.
Take care,
Pam in Niceville
ADVERTISEMENT
_____
April 2nd, 2007 at 2:11 am
Boy, I understand that. I ultimately had to self-pay mine. Two years ago it
came to about 22k, don’t know what it would be today.
Pam in Niceville
April 2nd, 2007 at 5:29 pm
Nope, neither did I. Had to borrow it.
Pam
"I’m not the postmaster, I’m some poor bastard who’s the victim of some
stupid … experiment. What a place! What a situation! What kind of man
would put a known criminal in charge of a major branch of government? Apart
from, say, the average voter." Terry Pratchett - Going Postal
_____
Boy, I understand that. I ultimately had to self-pay mine. Two years ago
it
came to about 22k, don’t know what it would be today.
Pam in Niceville
_____
May 19th, 2007 at 5:09 am
Hi everyone,
My name is Jennifer and I am new to the group. I am a 36-year-old
mother of 3. 12, 14, and 2 years of age. I have struggled with weight
my whole life. It has taken a toll the last 5 years with Diabetes,
then sleep apnea, high blood pressure and now constant lower back
pain. I fear that I will live this way the rest of my life. EEEK! I
started my wls journey about 2 years ago. I started researching and
changed insurances to Kaiser. The process has not been bad, getting
approved and all. They ask you to lose 40 lbs before they will give
you a date. I have lost 20 and just can’t seem to lose the rest. I
thought it would be easy, no sweat??? This seems to be the hardest
part so far. There are other factors about Kaiser that scare me;
maybe I am using them as an excuse? I plan to switch insurances come
January to Blue Shield Blue Cross Options and try El Camino Hospital
with this group of Doctors. I actually feel better with there
surgeons. I am hoping that they will take my highest weight and
except the 20 lbs lost and just do it? Has anyone have Blue Shield
Blue Cross Options? I can’t seem to find what there requirements are
for approval?
thnx,
Jennifer
May 19th, 2007 at 12:14 pm
You definitely need to check, Jennifer. Maybe you can find someone who has
the insurance who would be willing to call in on the customer service number
and find out for you. In Florida, BCBS no longer covers any weight-loss
surgery at all. Each state has a different set of rules, though, so you
need to check for your state.
Pam in Niceville
_____
Hi everyone,
My name is Jennifer and I am new to the group. I am a 36-year-old
mother of 3. 12, 14, and 2 years of age. I have struggled with weight
my whole life. It has taken a toll the last 5 years with Diabetes,
then sleep apnea, high blood pressure and now constant lower back
pain. I fear that I will live this way the rest of my life. EEEK! I
started my wls journey about 2 years ago. I started researching and
changed insurances to Kaiser. The process has not been bad, getting
approved and all. They ask you to lose 40 lbs before they will give
you a date. I have lost 20 and just can’t seem to lose the rest. I
thought it would be easy, no sweat??? This seems to be the hardest
part so far. There are other factors about Kaiser that scare me;
maybe I am using them as an excuse? I plan to switch insurances come
January to Blue Shield Blue Cross Options and try El Camino Hospital
with this group of Doctors. I actually feel better with there
surgeons. I am hoping that they will take my highest weight and
except the 20 lbs lost and just do it? Has anyone have Blue Shield
Blue Cross Options? I can’t seem to find what there requirements are
for approval?
thnx,
Jennifer
_____
_____
May 19th, 2007 at 6:45 pm
Jennifer,
hi I had Healthnet Insurance for my surgury and Camino medical group for my
primary Dr. and loved the whole experience . they paid for everything and I know
that Dr Foster from the Pennisula group is now with camino group. And she is
jsut wonderful.
Hope all goes well for you .
Donna
Pam in Niceville
_____
Hi everyone,
My name is Jennifer and I am new to the group. I am a 36-year-old
mother of 3. 12, 14, and 2 years of age. I have struggled with weight
my whole life. It has taken a toll the last 5 years with Diabetes,
then sleep apnea, high blood pressure and now constant lower back
pain. I fear that I will live this way the rest of my life. EEEK! I
started my wls journey about 2 years ago. I started researching and
changed insurances to Kaiser. The process has not been bad, getting
approved and all. They ask you to lose 40 lbs before they will give
you a date. I have lost 20 and just can’t seem to lose the rest. I
thought it would be easy, no sweat??? This seems to be the hardest
part so far. There are other factors about Kaiser that scare me;
maybe I am using them as an excuse? I plan to switch insurances come
January to Blue Shield Blue Cross Options and try El Camino Hospital
with this group of Doctors. I actually feel better with there
surgeons. I am hoping that they will take my highest weight and
except the 20 lbs lost and just do it? Has anyone have Blue Shield
Blue Cross Options? I can’t seem to find what there requirements are
for approval?
thnx,
Jennifer
_____
_____
Visit your group "obesitysurgerysupportgroup" on the web.
———————————
May 20th, 2007 at 12:42 am
Dear Jenn: My name is Brian. I too started my journey a few years ago at first
researching doctors, facilities, etc… I chickened out once, then got back
into it. When I finally got motivated, my surgeon of choice no longer accepted
my insurance (Aetna HMO). I was not going to quit. I have a wonderful wife and
the most wonderful four year old son. I had five co-morbidities (High Blood
Pressure, Diabetes II, Sleep Apnea, GERD and cardiomyopathy. I found the most
wonderful surgeon in Dr. Raul Rosenthal of the Cleveland Clinic in Weston,
Florida. He is the most compassionate, understanding man I have met in the
medical profession.
The process that Dr. Rosenthal uses at Cleveland Clinic employs a two week
liquid protein diet pre-operative to reduce the size of your liver if you are
planning on having a laproscopic procedure. Since I was diabetic, I used the
Slim Fast low carb formula shakes, twice a day and then clear broth for dinner
with diet jello. I began the liquid protein diet at 395 pounds. I am 44 years
old and am 6′2" tall. I lost 20 pounds in the two week period. I had my surgery
on July 6, 2005. In two days I will be eight weeks post op. I currently weigh
292 pounds.
The journey has not been all fun and games. I have had three complications.
All serious, and all preventable. Once week post op I developed a blood clot in
my right elbow. It was due to me resting my arm in the retaining rail of my
recovery bed. The weight of my arm hanging from the bed cause a clot. After
some heparin and coumadin the clot was busted up. They sent me home and began
me on lovenox injections while I transitioned to coumadin.
I went to Atlanta for a convention two weeks post op and then had some real fun.
I began bleeding internally from the combination of twice daily lovenox
injections and coumadin. A trip to the Emory University Emergency Room revealed
the internal bleeding. My blood pressure dropped to 60/35 and I crashed. Eight
units of whole blood and plasma later and I was stabilized. Two days in ICU and
three more onthe regular ward and I was okay to fly back home to Ft Lauderdale.
Sunday the 28th of August I began throwing up. For three straight days I
couldn’t keep anything down. Finally Thursday I underwent an endoscopy where
Dr. Rosenthal found an ulcer. I’m being treated for that now and very pleased
with the treatment.
I am certain that my experiences are not typical, but noteworthy none the less.
I do not regret having the surgery. My diabetes is gone, so is my sleep apnea
and GERD. I feel good and my life is extended I am sure for another 40 years.
Hang in there. Be persistant. Follow your surgeons instructions, and talk to
them about the Slim Fast diet.
Best wishes.
Brian
thnx,
Jennifer
SPONSORED LINKS
Obesity surgery Obesity surgery specialist
Visit your group "obesitysurgerysupportgroup" on the web.
———————————
———————————
Click here to donate to the Hurricane Katrina relief effort.