Question
Hey, guys. I have a question for you. I am still
having pain (my surgery was 11/22) so I went to the ER
last night. They found that my Lipase level was high
(about 500) & so they think either I have an inflamed
pancreas or a leak (stomach acid onto my pancreas). Has
anyone heard of this complication before? I’m going to
my Dr. again tomorrow–he’s checking my blood again.
I’ll keep you updated. The good news is I’ve lost 10
lbs already (in one week). Yea!!!<br><br>Love
ya,<br>Tammy
August 11th, 2003 at 10:39 pm
I went to the Dr. again today & my Lipase &
Amylase levels are both higher. But my Dr. seems to think
Pancreatitis (inflam. of the Pancreas) is what I have & that
it will eventually go away. But it does hurt–right
under my incision area & around my back.
<br><br>Love,<br>T.
September 29th, 2003 at 5:32 pm
Norfolk Area members, when is our weekly meeting. I would like to attend the
next one and don’t know the day or time.. Thank you!<br>Lisa Boone
September 30th, 2003 at 3:18 am
Dr. Schechner has his meetings on Monday nites call 497-3434 to ask the times
they are held at Leigh Memorial Hospital in the cafeteria conference room (in
the back behind the cashiers)
September 30th, 2003 at 9:34 am
the meeting is held at 6:00pm every monday nite<br>I look forward to meeting
some of you there.
October 27th, 2003 at 8:29 am
I am wondering about amounts of food you can eat.
I know that the amounts are dramatically reduced,
but I am wondering what amounts people typically eat
in a day, at each meal. I would like to know about
the first 2 weeks after surgery out to a year or
so.<br>I am wondering because right now (I have not yet
had the surgery, waiting to see if I can get a
referral) I don’t know what it is like to be full until I
have basically overeaten. I would be worried that
after surgery I would eat too much.
October 27th, 2003 at 1:50 pm
I can’t speak for everyone….just myself. I have
2-1/2 yrs. post op and I STILL experience the sensation
of "full" without any trouble. Before the surgery I
also had the tendency to eat until I was too full.
Almost to the point of getting sick. The sensations I
get now are so different. I just KNOW I can’t take
another bite of food and stop. Seems unbeleivable but
true. If we have gone out to eat, I usually end up
giving away the rest of my food. At home I try to take a
tablespoon of each food. This would probably be equal to
five tablespoons of food. Even then, I can’t eat it
all. At this point, learn to pick up your plate
immediately and take it to the sink. If I don’t, I still have
a tendancy to pick at my plate. That is when I run
into trouble and get myself too full and get very sick
to my stomach. No vomitting, but I still suffer
until my food digests down. When I first had surgery,
my meals usually consisted of 1/4 of food, usually
soups, jello, etc. I was so full, I thought I would
bust. After surgery the sensation of being full is
unlike anything you have experienced before. You truly
DO NOT want to eat anything more. Good
Luck.<br><br>Helen<br>Surgery 8-14-1997 @ 255 lbs.<br>Today 3-16-2000 @ 144
lbs.
October 27th, 2003 at 7:11 pm
OOPS!! I hope everyone excuses the typographical
erros in the last message. I sound like an
idiot.<br>Some of the things I meant were…..after surgery I
ate about 1/4 cup of food. Nothing more than that.
Please read between all the typing errors. God, what I
wouldn’t do for fingers that worked better. Helen
October 28th, 2003 at 12:32 am
Babs, before surgery I would go to a buffet, fill
my plate until it was spilling over and then eat
until I just simply didnt want any more.<br>Now its 4
months after surgery, and I eat until I dont want any
more. I let my body dictate how much to eat. Only now,
my body is full after about 5-6 bites of something.
October 28th, 2003 at 4:34 pm
It is so hard for me to imagine 5-6 bites of food
filling me up. I am so afraid I will sabatoge myself.
Even though I hear all the different success stories I
am so afraid I will fail at this. I sure hope it
helps with the sugar craving! I have heard you can’t
eat sugars, but, do you still crave it? I just wish
my insurance co. would decide something. The waiting
is horrible.
October 28th, 2003 at 9:55 pm
you will quit having sugar cravings the very
first time you indulge in it. Trust me, you will regret
it so badly that the mere thought of sugar will make
you cringe.<br>Also, just the fear that you will
sabotage your surgery willkeep you from doing that. You’ll
be fine, and 5-6 bites of food will satisfy you. If
you overeat you get sick from it. It works by
negative reinforcement. Its that simple.
October 29th, 2003 at 2:20 am
it may be hard to believe, but it is TRUE! And it
can be so GREAT!!!!!! I find it incredible… but
trying to explain to my friends that I really do feel
full always brigs a few heads a shaking! (smile) but
in reality I DO feel like I just finished an awesome
filling meal… and I have NO regrets! And of course now
that I have lost 101.5 pounds (oh how I wish I could
emphasis that more!) and am also down SEVEN sizes (really
more because I am only starting with the jeans I could
not waer until I was 8 weeks out of surgery!)I just
let it all go straight to my
head…!!!!!!!!!!<br><br>About the sugars… you really shouldn’t have too much
of a problem… if you find other things that can
satisfy that craving when and if you do want something. I
have found that things that tasted OK before, are now
way too sweet. Not sure why, but it is… even
sugar-free things I drank before… can’t stand em now… go
figure! But i have found Lifesavers makes a great
sugar-free hard candy, Russell Stover makes an awesome
sugar-free pecan turtle (when I want a real candy bar) and I
love sugar-free Koolaid. And lastly a nice sweet piece
of fruit really calms that craving too!<br><br>Good
Luck, and don’t worry about the small stuff–and it is
ALL small stuff!<br>Cindy
October 31st, 2003 at 3:23 am
Hi Babs, I had my surgery 2-15-00. Two days after
the surgery I started with one oz. of boost plus and
1 oz of water mixed together 3 times a day. Every
waking hour in between I was allowed 2 ozs of water. 2
days after that I had boost plus straight 3 times a
day. When I tolerated that(2 weeks post op) I then
went with 2 ozs of soft foods(sf jellos and puddings,
soft eggs, oatmeal, grits, yogurt, and some well
cooked vege which do not cause alot of gas. After one
week on soft foods I got to try fish. The following
week was chicken, then the next week beef and then the
next week pork. Your whole meal still has to consist
of 2oz(1/4 cup). I am still doing that now. I am
allowed certain snacks if I should feel hungry which
consists of 2low salt pretzels, or 2 graham crackers, or 2
fig newtons. You really do get full with 2 oz of
food. You must chew and take your time eating. I
vomited 3 times in one night because I did not do this. I
learned my lesson.
July 3rd, 2004 at 7:59 pm
I am wondering if any of you know of anyone who
has had this procedure re-done? <br><br>I know
someone who, after about 9 years, has gained some weight
back. (About 30 lbs.) She is concerned and wondering if
having an "update" to her procedure is possible.
<br><br>Also, any suggestions on maintenance after the initial
loss would be helpful.<br><br>Thanks!!
August 12th, 2005 at 10:21 pm
Hi everyone,
I have been reading most of your messages but have never posted anything
myself. I will have surgery on the 2nd of January, 2003. I was wondering if
anyone had any advice on what to take to the hospital. I will bring a
nightgown, robe, houseshoes, toothbrush and the regular stuff. I am talking
about some things that may make it easier on me while I have to stay there
those 3-4 days. Any info will be greatly appreciated. Thank you
Bettina
August 13th, 2005 at 3:31 am
Don’t forget a chapstick. Very important. Your lips tend to get dry
after surgery.
Pam in Niceville
Lap RNY 11/20/02
241/219/120
Hi everyone,
I have been reading most of your messages but have never posted anything
myself. I will have surgery on the 2nd of January, 2003. I was wondering
if
anyone had any advice on what to take to the hospital. I will bring a
nightgown, robe, houseshoes, toothbrush and the regular stuff. I am
talking
about some things that may make it easier on me while I have to stay
there
those 3-4 days. Any info will be greatly appreciated. Thank you
Bettina
August 13th, 2005 at 2:29 pm
Hi all:
I’m having my surgery Jan. 2nd too! I’m so excited I can’t hardly
wait! Best of luck to you Bessina - I will think of you when I go.
Lauren
Lap RNY 1/2/03
311/???
August 13th, 2005 at 7:44 pm
Lauren,
it’s Bettina (no big deal though). I am excited too, but also very nervous. I
just found out on the 26th Dec, that I will have surgery on the 2nd. So I
didn’t have much time to think yet. I am still trying to gather some advice
on what to take to the hospital. Someone already said chapstick. Good idea!!!
Where are you located at?
Bettina
August 14th, 2005 at 1:05 am
Lauren,
oh, Good luck to you too. I will think of you also and definitely pray for
you. Hopefully we’ll have alot of people supporting us with prayers and
thoughts.
Hope to hear from you after your (our) surgery.
Bettina
August 14th, 2005 at 6:26 am
Pam,
thank you for your advice. Alot of people say you will have a nasty taste in
your mouth. Do you know if you can take those Listerine things you put in
your mouth, which dissolve? I see you are very active on this board and very
knowledgeable. That’s why I am turning to you with this question.
Thanks alot
Bettina
August 14th, 2005 at 4:57 pm
Sure, you should be able to use those little flakes - I can’t remember
what they’re called. TBH, I didn’t worry too much about that in the
hospital - mostly because I don’t have a SO, so no one got close enough
to me to tell. I’m sure the nurse would let you brush your teeth, if
you wanted, too, and you could use one of the plastic spoons to scrape
your tongue. You’ll be getting up and walking, too, fairly quickly, I
imagine - that’s important for a couple of things - to prevent blood
clots and, if you’re having a lap procedure, to help get the gas out. If
you can walk, you can get to the bathroom and brush your teeth.
Mind you, I had a proximal laproscopic bypass, so I was only in the
hospital from Wednesday AM to Friday AM, and I slept almost all day on
Wednesday. Ahhhh - better living through chemistry <G>. You’ll start
out with ice chips when the doc says ok, and then onto a liquid diet, I
imagine. That seems to be pretty constant among surgeons.
Best of luck on your surgery!
Pam in Niceville
Lap RNY 11/20/02
241/219/120
Pam,
thank you for your advice. Alot of people say you will have a nasty
taste in
your mouth. Do you know if you can take those Listerine things you put
in
your mouth, which dissolve? I see you are very active on this board and
very
knowledgeable. That’s why I am turning to you with this question.
Thanks alot
Bettina
August 15th, 2005 at 5:49 am
Hi Bettina,
I just had my surgery on Dec. 20. I had lap roux en y and I did have a nasty
taste in my mouth from the ansethesia. My hospital gave me a little sponge
like a lollipop and that helped relieve the dryness and taste. I had
surgery at 8:00 am, got to my room by noon and was up and walking by 3:00.
I was released the following evening, I have had no problems I got up and
walked everytime they checked my vitals, midnight, 3 am, so far I have lost
10#.
Shell
Dr. Vierra
August 15th, 2005 at 7:51 pm
Pam,
thank you for all the info. Every little advice helps. I already feel more at
ease knowing more going into this. The reason I am trying to be as
independent as I can is that the nurses at the hospital are not very nice. As
a matter of fact they are very rude. I have heard that from other gastric
bypass patients. Everyone was glad to be out of there rather sooner than
later. So, that’s why I am trying to help myself and not having to ask for
it. Thanks again.
I am sure I am not done here yet and will definitely write more before
Thursday. I am so excited but also so nervous. I have researched this for a
long time while I have been on the waiting list since January of 2002. So, I
do know enough and understand it, but I still have butterflies in my stomach.
I am not having it done lap. My doctor only does the open RNY.
Talk to you soon
Bettina
August 16th, 2005 at 1:12 am
Hi Shell,
you go girl. It sounds like you are doing great. I am not having it done lap,
but open RNY. So, I probably won’t jump around and go home as soon as you
did. The walking is important, I know. I will have my surgery done at a
military hospital, so I don’t know if they are so well equipped as a civilian
hospital. We’ll see. I will report. hahaha
Again, good job on your accomplishment.
Talk to you soon
Bettina
August 16th, 2005 at 6:22 am
Pam,
thank you for all the info. Every little advice helps. I already feel
more at
ease knowing more going into this. The reason I am trying to be as
independent as I can is that the nurses at the hospital are not very
nice. As
a matter of fact they are very rude. I have heard that from other
gastric
bypass patients. Everyone was glad to be out of there rather sooner than
later. So, that’s why I am trying to help myself and not having to ask
for
it. Thanks again.
I am sure I am not done here yet and will definitely write more before
Thursday. I am so excited but also so nervous. I have researched this
for a
long time while I have been on the waiting list since January of 2002.
So, I
do know enough and understand it, but I still have butterflies in my
stomach.
I am not having it done lap. My doctor only does the open RNY.
Talk to you soon
Bettina
August 16th, 2005 at 3:02 pm
Bettina, which military hospital are you on the list for I’m trying
to get mine through Ft. Gordon?
Ashley
August 16th, 2005 at 5:15 pm
Lauren,
I agree with you. I am so ready to give up food. My sister spent christmas
with my husband and I. She came from Germany and brought all those good
things from there. German chocolate, gummibears, etc. We didn’t know how soon
I will have the surgery, so we thought I might want to have those things
before the surgery. Do you know as soon as I got the phonecall about the
surgery being on the 2nd of January, I didn’t want to eat anything anymore.
You know how people say they kinda went on a binge eating rage right
before?……..funny thing I tried to eat some things I don’t know if my body
will tolerate after surgery, but I can’t.
I am all done with my prep stuff. All I have to do now is to do the liquid
thing on Wednesday and then show up at the hospital at 0630 am on Thursday.
And of course pack. You are right, what can you really want for at the
hospital? I will pack light too. Definitely I will bring my chapstick though.
Hope to talk to you more until we have to go in…….
Until then, stay strong.
Bettina
August 17th, 2005 at 3:56 am
Ashley,
I am at Ft. Campbell. I have been on the list since January of this year and
finally have my surgery on the 2nd. Due to past and upcoming deployments the
gastric bypass program was constantly on hold. That’s why the long wait. Why
are you TRYING to get on the waiting list? Do you not know yet if you qualify
for the surgery? What kinda program do you have down there in GA? We have a
very good one with alot of orientations, constant monitoring, support group,
clothes closet, in all a wonderful system.
Bettina
August 17th, 2005 at 9:17 am
Ashely,
you are also well on your way to the "loser" side. Your program sounds very
good too. I am surprised to hear your surgeon will go in later and give you a
tummy tuck. Here they won’t do it unless you have a hernia which requires
surgery. For that you even have to go off post. They don’t do it on post,
since our surgeons are no plastic surgeons. Your program sounds very
supportive too, isn’t it great? Our surgeons won’t even operate on you if you
(your spouse) is on assignment which will require you to leave the area
within a year because the aftercare program takes just about 12 to 24 months.
We definitely need the support and aftercare, that’s for sure. When did you
actually start your process? Just curious to see how long it takes for you to
go through all that before you actually have the surgery? Do they talk to you
guys about the program being stopped if your surgeons deploy or do you have
civilian doctors?
Wow, alot of questions, sorry.
Bettina
August 17th, 2005 at 5:46 pm
Bettina,
Ashe
All of our surgeons are military but they haven’t said what would
happen if they get deployed. My surgeon is able to do the tummy tuck
because he did a rotation in plastics in his residency. I started
the process in July, I was first sent to a civillian in Ocala, Fl.
If they had sent me to ft. Gordon in the first place I would have
already have had my surgery. No problem with the questions
August 17th, 2005 at 7:59 pm
Ashley,
well I don’t think it matters where we start our journey, but that we finish
and get there healthy and safe. I, for that matter, whish you all the best
and good luck on a soon to be surgery date.
Bettina :o)
August 18th, 2005 at 4:27 am
Bettina,
Good luck and be safe with your surgery email me and let me know how
things go.
Ashe
August 18th, 2005 at 6:40 am
Ashe,
I will definitely let you know how the surgery went. I have a high tolerance
of pain, but let me tell you, I will still let you know that it hurts.
hahahahaha
Bettina
August 18th, 2005 at 3:09 pm
Bettina,
haha I have a low tolerance, so for my sake I hope it doesn’t
hurt you. Good night and good luck.
Ashe
August 18th, 2005 at 11:31 pm
Hey guys,
Can anyone tell me if the referral letter can come from any Dr. except your PCP?
My appointment with her is not until the 9th. My Dr. that’s performing the
surgery wants me to get my information package back to them ASAP to make my
first appointment. Can my heart or sleep apnea Dr. write the referral letter to
the WLS hospital?
Best wishes to all,
Ashley,
well I don’t think it matters where we start our journey, but that we finish
and get there healthy and safe. I, for that matter, whish you all the best
and good luck on a soon to be surgery date.
Bettina :o)
August 19th, 2005 at 5:54 am
Can anyone tell me if the referral letter can come from any Dr. except your PCP?
My appointment with her is not until the 9th. My Dr. that’s performing the
surgery wants me to get my information package back to them ASAP to make my
first appointment. Can my heart or sleep apnea Dr. write the referral letter to
the WLS hospital?
Best wishes to all,
Ashley,
well I don’t think it matters where we start our journey, but that we finish
and get there healthy and safe. I, for that matter, whish you all the best
and good luck on a soon to be surgery date.
Bettina :o)
August 19th, 2005 at 9:13 am
Hey guys,
Can anyone tell me if the referral letter can come from any Dr. except
your PCP? My appointment with her is not until the 9th. My Dr. that’s
performing the surgery wants me to get my information package back to
them ASAP to make my first appointment. Can my heart or sleep apnea Dr.
write the referral letter to the WLS hospital?
Best wishes to all,
Ashley,
well I don’t think it matters where we start our journey, but that we
finish
and get there healthy and safe. I, for that matter, whish you all the
best
and good luck on a soon to be surgery date.
Bettina :o)
ADVERTISEMENT
August 19th, 2005 at 3:33 pm
Thanx Pam,
It’s good to belong to this family.
Hey guys,
Can anyone tell me if the referral letter can come from any Dr. except
your PCP? My appointment with her is not until the 9th. My Dr. that’s
performing the surgery wants me to get my information package back to
them ASAP to make my first appointment. Can my heart or sleep apnea Dr.
write the referral letter to the WLS hospital?
Best wishes to all,
Ashley,
well I don’t think it matters where we start our journey, but that we
finish
and get there healthy and safe. I, for that matter, whish you all the
best
and good luck on a soon to be surgery date.
Bettina :o)
ADVERTISEMENT
August 20th, 2005 at 1:32 am
Bettina:
Hello. Counting down and I can’t wait. Where do you live??
How cool that your sister is in Germany. I was there 2X’s on high
school exchange trips and loved it! Anyway, I have to be at the
hospital at 5:30a.m.! What time is your surgery? I have to do a
prep too. I’ve been eating through everything! I’m gonna try and
take it easy tonight. Happy New Year!
Do you work? Have a family? I’ll talk to you again before we go.
Lauren
August 20th, 2005 at 12:08 pm
Lauren,
it seems like you and I don’t count down the end of the year 2002, but the
end of our old lives, just so we can begin our journey to a better and
healthier us. I have to be at the hospital at 0630 am. My surgeon said I will
be the second surgery. His first surgery is not a gastric bypass but yet
something else. But I will be his second patient to get operated on that day.
Yeah, Germany is cool. That’s where I am from, born and raised there. My
whole family is there and I miss them very much. I wish they were here to
visit me at the hospital or at home. I live in TN, actually TN/KY border,
have you heard of Clarksville, TN? That’s where I live. Where did you say,
you were from?
To answer your questions, no, I don’t work right now. I have always worked
but not at this time. It is a long story because there is alot to it, but I
am trying to make it short. I just got out of the military a few months ago,
due to arthritis in my left foot. The injury actually is PART (only part) of
the blame for my rapid weight gain. I couldn’t do any of the exercise we
usually do in the military. I always have had weight problems but it had
gotten very bad. They kinda showed some compassion because I had an injury
which occoured while I was on active duty. As soon as they heard that my
doctor wants me to leave the service they really didn’t bother me anymore
about my weight, because I was on my way out anyways. After the military I
concentrated on getting all my appointments done so I can have surgery soon
and get better very quickly. It kind of worked out for me. After everything
is said and done I can direct my attention to finding a good job. And I am
sure I will because of the way I am going to feel.
As far as family…..you know my family is in Germany. Here I have a husband
and and in-laws about 7 hrs away from us. What about you? Tell us more about
yourself.
I hope you are still awake and I didn’t put you to sleep with my interesting
(yeah right) story.
I do hope we get to say good bye before we go in on Thursday. A Happy new
year to you too. We can’t even toast with water on midnight, since we are no
supposed to eat or drink. What are you going to do on new years eve? Are you
still going to have a party?
Bettina
August 20th, 2005 at 11:38 pm
What does the group think about buying a juicer and one of those Ultimate
Choppers for use after the surgery? What fruits and veggies do you recommend
and which ones to avoid?
Hey guys,
Can anyone tell me if the referral letter can come from any Dr. except
your PCP? My appointment with her is not until the 9th. My Dr. that’s
performing the surgery wants me to get my information package back to
them ASAP to make my first appointment. Can my heart or sleep apnea Dr.
write the referral letter to the WLS hospital?
Best wishes to all,
Ashley,
well I don’t think it matters where we start our journey, but that we
finish
and get there healthy and safe. I, for that matter, whish you all the
best
and good luck on a soon to be surgery date.
Bettina :o)
ADVERTISEMENT
August 21st, 2005 at 4:00 am
Yvonne, I’m willing to bet that right after surgery you’ll be on a
liquid diet, and then graduate to what I call smushy foods. The juicer
would work for veges, but juiced fruits will probably be too high in
sugar for you. We tend to dump with too much sugar. I’m not so sure
about the ultimate chopper…. I know that even now I have to literally
chew anything I eat until it’s the texture of mashed potatoes on my
tongue before I swallow it. After you’ve settled down and your pouch is
healed, you can start the fruits - say a strawberry in a protein shake,
or a half a banana - but I’d certainly wait on it for a while. May give
you diarrhea. Veges are all individual - and sometimes you can eat
something once, but not later. Last night I had some chinese food - beef
broccoli. Chewed and chewed and chewed. Went down ok. This morning, I
had a little bit more for breakfast and it blocked the stoma and came
right back up. This afternoon I tried again for lunch, and it seems to
be doing ok. Wierd. Veges are something that need to be chewed into
extinction, too.
Pam in Niceville
What does the group think about buying a juicer and one of those
Ultimate Choppers for use after the surgery? What fruits and veggies do
you recommend and which ones to avoid?
Hey guys,
Can anyone tell me if the referral letter can come from any Dr. except
your PCP? My appointment with her is not until the 9th. My Dr.
that’s
performing the surgery wants me to get my information package back to
them ASAP to make my first appointment. Can my heart or sleep apnea
Dr.
write the referral letter to the WLS hospital?
Best wishes to all,
Ashley,
well I don’t think it matters where we start our journey, but that
we
finish
and get there healthy and safe. I, for that matter, whish you all
the
best
and good luck on a soon to be surgery date.
Bettina :o)
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
August 21st, 2005 at 11:31 am
Hi Lauren,
I am doing great I have lost 12# and am 11 days out. People are already
starting to notice. I do work, I go back to the Dr. on the 8th and he will
probably release me to go back. I don’t like my job very much so I am in no
hurry. I am starting my own business and my New Years Resolution is to get
it off the ground and making a profit. Have a wonderful New Year!
Shell
292/280/??
Dr. Vierra
August 21st, 2005 at 2:57 pm
Bettina:
I think it’s so cool we have the same date. I’m sorry to hear of
your foot problems, but it sounds like it is all working out for
you. I don’t know where Clarksville is, but I’m curious what
prompted you to join the service? Is it the Army? I live in NY (on
Long Island) I’m married for 17 years to a great man. I’m 38 years
old and have 2 kids, a daughter 14, and a son 11. I love them so
much. I work full time as a project manager in telecommunications -
it’s a good job, but it’s very demanding.
Where in Germany are you from? When did you leave Germany? I used
to speak a little, but now I don’t remember anything. Meine Deutsch
ist nicht sehr gut!!!! How’s that? You probably have studied English
since your first day of school. That’s one thing other countries are
WAY AHEAD OF US on !!
Oh well, we’re headed out for a house party now. It should be fairly
mellow. I don’t want to overindulge, because I’m afraid it will make
the prep worse. Have a happy new year!!! We’re on our way. I’ll
talk to you tomorrow. Jan 2 ! It’s almost here!
And to everyone - I have learned so much on this web site! Thank
you. Looking forward to crossing over!
Happy New Year
Lauren
LAP RNY 1/02/03
August 21st, 2005 at 8:18 pm
Hi Shelley:
That’s great! Keep it up! I can’t stay away from my job too long,
and I’m a little worried about that. What type of business will you
start? Is it a home based business? My sister and I are recently
considering doing a cleaning business, residential and commercial. I
need my income, so for me it would be "on the side" for quite a
while. Anyway, I’m always interested in hearing about new businesses
Happy New Year!
Lauren
LAP RNY 1/02/03
August 22nd, 2005 at 1:34 am
Lauren,
well, I joined the Army (you were right) because my husband is a soldier.
Sometimes I think he was born one. He loves it.
My husband and I have been married for 11 years now. I am from Bamberg,
Germany and my husband is from Chicago, Illionois. Your spelling in German is
very good still. I left Germany February 3rd, 1992. I’ll never forget that
day.
hahahaha, no I haven’t studied English since my first day of school, but
since 5th Grade. My sister was one year ahead of me in school. When she came
home to do her English homework I would activlely participate. I loved it. So
I guess you can say I was one year ahead, because when I started English in
5th Grade I was bored because I knew everything. Due to that my English
should be alot better though, but it isn’t. Well, I get by.
Happy New Year, Lauren, and of course everyone else too…… The first thing
my husband asked me this morning right after we got up is: Are you nervous? I
take it you can guess what my answer was. So I am drinking only water today,
how about you? Yeah, I think it is cool too, that we have the same date, and
guess what it is almost here. Tomorrow morning we don’t have alot from the
day since you and I have to be in the hospital so early……oh,…..I have
butterflies in my stomach.
I have learned so much too and I love how helpful everyone is in this room.
Bettina
August 22nd, 2005 at 6:54 am
Gloria,
thank you so much for your kind words. I will remember to breath…….:o)
I am so thankful for people like you who support people they don’t even know.
I can’t wait to be on the other side with you all. Happy New Year.
Bettina
August 22nd, 2005 at 12:15 pm
bettina, GOODLUCK W are all praying for a speedy recovery. Kepp in touch
post op. we all need support. The group is here for you. Hear from you in
a week or so? Get ready for a life changing experience for the better.
Susan
August 22nd, 2005 at 5:36 pm
lauren, goodluck on surgery tomorrow. I think my previous post today was
meant for you but I addssed to Bettina. Susan
August 22nd, 2005 at 10:57 pm
yvonne, susan here. Answer to your question. the referral letter must mbe
from the name of dr. listed as your pcp. At least my bc/bs ins. told me
that. My pcp didn’t want to give it to me. I had the surgeon call her. The
referral was there the next day. Susan
August 23rd, 2005 at 3:47 pm
Thanx Susan,
I just did not want to wait. The sooner I get my package completed then the
sooner I will have my first appointment with the hospital to get the process
going. My appointment for the first time with my PCP is not until the 9th. I
guess a little patience is needed. I am what some call a 7/11 girl, want it
now. Don’t know what I will run into with her. My daughter has the same PCP
and really like her.
I have read several stories of our friends not being sure about getting the
surgery. Not me, a friend told me about the surgery around 2 years ago and
immediately I knew I would do it in a NY minute. With me being self employed
and no insurance, my chance of getting surgery was not good. Never did I think
my health would get so poor that I would wind up on Medicaid, but here I am –
maybe a blessing in disguise.
yvonne, susan here. Answer to your question. the referral letter must mbe
from the name of dr. listed as your pcp. At least my bc/bs ins. told me
that. My pcp didn’t want to give it to me. I had the surgeon call her. The
referral was there the next day. Susan
August 24th, 2005 at 7:01 am
Susan,
thank you so much for your kind words. You all are so supportive, that’s what
I (we all ) need. I can’t wait to finally be on the other side with you guys.
I will definitely let you guys know how I am doing as soon as I can.
Talk to you soon
Bettina
August 24th, 2005 at 5:43 pm
Lauren,
Good luck tomorrow. You see everything will go well and rather sooner than
later we’ll be back online chatting about our experience.
See you on the other side.
Bettina
August 25th, 2005 at 11:45 am
Hi Lauren,
Today is your new b-day. I will be starting a Errand and Notary Public
Service. I am a loan signing agent and would like to get where I have at
least two signings a day (approx. $100 per day) I also do errands like
grocery shop, pick up dry cleaning,prescriptions,banking, travel
arrangements etc. My husband does hauling, minor repairs, and dog waste
clean up. My New Years Resolution is to really start to market my service.
I have everything in place I just have to get out there and make myself
known. Losing the weight will so help with the self confidence part. I
know its in there I just have to bring it out. I went and got a new hair do
I cut it off short and put a curl into it I figure if I am going to lose
hair I want it to be full and easy to take care of. All is going so well.
Hope all is well with you too.
Shell
292/279
lap RNY
August 29th, 2005 at 9:29 pm
Hey Guys,
Here is wishing all those who just had surgery and those in the near future all
the best.
Questions:
1. Does everyone have to deal with the loose skin?
2. Is there anything one can do before surgery i.e. lotions, etc.?
3. How successful have you guys been in getting your insurances to pay for
removal of extra skin/Medicare - Medicaid, etc.?
4. What can one do about loosing too much breast tissue?
yvonne, susan here. Answer to your question. the referral letter must mbe
from the name of dr. listed as your pcp. At least my bc/bs ins. told me
that. My pcp didn’t want to give it to me. I had the surgeon call her. The
referral was there the next day. Susan
September 1st, 2005 at 8:02 pm
Here is wishing all those who just had surgery and those in the near future all
the best.
Questions:
1. Does everyone have to deal with the loose skin?
2. Is there anything one can do before surgery i.e. lotions, etc.?
3. How successful have you guys been in getting your insurances to pay for
removal of extra skin/Medicare - Medicaid, etc.?
4. What can one do about loosing too much breast tissue?
yvonne, susan here. Answer to your question. the referral letter must mbe
from the name of dr. listed as your pcp. At least my bc/bs ins. told me
that. My pcp didn’t want to give it to me. I had the surgeon call her. The
referral was there the next day. Susan
September 2nd, 2005 at 12:20 am
Thanx Penny,
I’l look into this.
Here is wishing all those who just had surgery and those in the near future
all the best.
Questions:
1. Does everyone have to deal with the loose skin?
2. Is there anything one can do before surgery i.e. lotions, etc.?
3. How successful have you guys been in getting your insurances to pay for
removal of extra skin/Medicare - Medicaid, etc.?
4. What can one do about loosing too much breast tissue?
yvonne, susan here. Answer to your question. the referral letter must mbe
from the name of dr. listed as your pcp. At least my bc/bs ins. told me
that. My pcp didn’t want to give it to me. I had the surgeon call her. The
referral was there the next day. Susan
December 3rd, 2005 at 9:49 pm
Hello everyone,
I am waiting for my insurance to approve me, but my question is how
long will I have to be off of work. I sit behind a computer and the
heaviest, most strenous thing I pick up is a pencil. Depending on how
long it takes to go back to work, determines how soon I can actually
have the surgery. If someone knows this answer, please let me know.
thanks alot.
December 4th, 2005 at 5:01 am
I took two weeks off. The week of surgery off plus an extra week.
Hello everyone,
I am waiting for my insurance to approve me, but my question is how
long will I have to be off of work. I sit behind a computer and the
heaviest, most strenous thing I pick up is a pencil. Depending on how
long it takes to go back to work, determines how soon I can actually
have the surgery. If someone knows this answer, please let me know.
thanks alot.
December 4th, 2005 at 8:09 am
Hello everyone,
I am waiting for my insurance to approve me, but my question is how
long will I have to be off of work. I sit behind a computer and the
heaviest, most strenous thing I pick up is a pencil. Depending on how
long it takes to go back to work, determines how soon I can actually
have the surgery. If someone knows this answer, please let me know.
thanks alot.
July 10th, 2006 at 2:10 am
Does anyone know or have heard of anyone that has had complications? i am
just curious…..there are risks to everything but you almost never hear about
the bad ones.
Beth
July 10th, 2006 at 12:27 pm
I’ve known a number of people who have had complications - almost everyone
I’ve known with complications have said that they would have the surgery
again - even one woman who couldn’t eat for months and months! Your doc
should be very clear about the potential complications - it’s part of making
an informed consent. Did you have questions about specific kinds?
Pam in Niceville
Does anyone know or have heard of anyone that has had complications? i am
just curious…..there are risks to everything but you almost never hear
about
the bad ones.
Beth
July 10th, 2006 at 3:18 pm
YES — but as a medical professional — The complications tend to be more
related to the other medical issues the patient already has had but are
compounded related to the obesity and pre-existing medical conditions. I
hate to be blunt but a fat person is a bad risk for any medical surgery they
have to go under the knife for and it is complicated by a lot that also
smoke.
CONNIE D
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
09/11/03 242 (-126)
10/02/03 235 (-133)
10/14/03 232 (-135) 7 months out
——-Original Message——-
Does anyone know or have heard of anyone that has had complications? i am
just curious…..there are risks to everything but you almost never hear
about
the bad ones.
Beth
July 10th, 2006 at 11:33 pm
Pam,
there is no one concern I have….just general stuff. some people have lots
of problems, ie: clots, liquid in the lungs, never being able to digest
anything, having to go in and have stuff fixed….things like that.
beth
July 11th, 2006 at 4:54 am
Connie,
That is also a scare of mine…i know that being fat has it own risks that
are compounded. I am just curious what is out there. I would be afraid if I
was having any surgery. but people have a way of swaying me by saying this
isn’t necessary, why risk it, you know all that stuff. but it is necessary for
us.
thanks!
beth
July 11th, 2006 at 9:50 am
As Connie mentioned, many of the complications occur because of medical
issues we already have because of our obesity -= for example, the need for a
CPAP because the excess weight interferes with our breathing and we tend to
get sleep apnea. Blood clots are a problem for both thin and heavy people.
It’s why they get us up walking ASAP - and why we have those funny leg
thingies that sort of massage our legs during the surgery and afterwards -
and why we get those short/thin needle shots in our tummies just prior to
surgery - to prevent clots. We have to exercise our lungs, too, to prevent
pneumonia.
There are things like developing leaks, (you’re usually tested for leaks
either on the table or before you leave the hospital, usually), or surgical
mishaps - I know a woman whose bowel was accidently nipped, and she
developed peritonitus. Your best bet is to be sure that the doc you’re
using has a lot of experience at the type of surgery you’re having. I had
one of the best (IMHO) lap surgeons in the area. He knew what he was doing
and has done many of the surgeries. I imagine that if he had been born 20
years later he would have been a whiz at computer games <G>. I wouldn’t
press a doc who is most comfortable doing open surgeries to do a lap
procedure. JMHO. Do *your* research. If you can, talk to others who have
had surgery with him.
I’m willing to bet that the majority of us have no problems with our
surgeries and our pouches. Mine has been totally uneventful. But then, I
don’t do any of the drugs that might cause problems with the pouch, and I
work hard on chewing my food very well, keeping my bites small, etc. I
supplement like crazy, so I don’t become a "gray ghost" - I watch my labs to
see trends that I might be able to catch early. I’m pretty proactive in my
"medical care."
Pam
Pam,
there is no one concern I have….just general stuff. some people have lots
of problems, ie: clots, liquid in the lungs, never being able to digest
anything, having to go in and have stuff fixed….things like that.
beth
July 11th, 2006 at 3:11 pm
The docs who do this surgery are very sensitive to our particular surgical
issues as MO people. That’s a blessing in itself. I can guarantee you that
you will die early from MO. I00%. (How many 400 lb 50 year olds do you see
walking around the mall? Even on a scooter?) I can’t guarantee that you
will live to be 80, but your chances are MUCH better if you’re thinner.
I’d do this surgery again in a heartbeat.
Pam in Niceville
Connie,
That is also a scare of mine…i know that being fat has it own risks that
are compounded. I am just curious what is out there. I would be afraid if
I
was having any surgery. but people have a way of swaying me by saying this
isn’t necessary, why risk it, you know all that stuff. but it is necessary
for us.
thanks!
beth
July 11th, 2006 at 8:56 pm
Pam,
I am sure you have mentioned it….but where do you live? are you the one in
niceville? where is that?
thanks for all your info!
July 12th, 2006 at 5:55 pm
Niceville, Florida. It’s a small bedroom community for Eglin AFB, located
about 50 miles east of Pensacola. I frequently call it "Southern Alabama"
because if you go due north from me for about 150 miles, you’re in
Montgomery <G>. I’m about 7 miles north of Destin, Florida, which is on the
gulf.
Pam
Pam,
I am sure you have mentioned it….but where do you live? are you the one
in
niceville? where is that?
thanks for all your info!
July 14th, 2006 at 12:41 pm
Hi!
Gray ghosts are those WLS patients who are deficient in their protein and
their vitamins. The skin gets gray and dragged out looking. I’m a firm
believer in keeping ourselves well nourished, and since we can’t eat a lot
with our tums, I think it’s important to supplement. But That’s JMHO. It’s
worked for me, and worked for friends of mine who are 8-or more years out from
surgery, and a more distal surgery than I have, who look GREAT!
Pam
July 16th, 2006 at 1:57 pm
Pam,
What is JMHO? Is it a supplement?
Thanks,
Hi!
Gray ghosts are those WLS patients who are deficient in their protein and
their vitamins. The skin gets gray and dragged out looking. I’m a firm
believer in keeping ourselves well nourished, and since we can’t eat a lot
with our tums, I think it’s important to supplement. But That’s JMHO. It’s
worked for me, and worked for friends of mine who are 8-or more years out from
surgery, and a more distal surgery than I have, who look GREAT!
Pam
melva
pre-op 11/12/03
259 1/2lbs/256lbs/150?
Dr. Rincon/Wish Center/Renton,WA
July 16th, 2006 at 6:09 pm
No, sorry, it’s an abbreviation for Just My Humble Opinion.
Pam
Pam,
What is JMHO? Is it a supplement?
Thanks,
Hi!
Gray ghosts are those WLS patients who are deficient in their protein and
their vitamins. The skin gets gray and dragged out looking. I’m a firm
believer in keeping ourselves well nourished, and since we can’t eat a lot
with our tums, I think it’s important to supplement. But That’s JMHO. It’s
worked for me, and worked for friends of mine who are 8-or more years out
from
surgery, and a more distal surgery than I have, who look GREAT!
Pam
melva
pre-op 11/12/03
259 1/2lbs/256lbs/150?
Dr. Rincon/Wish Center/Renton,WA
July 17th, 2006 at 2:58 pm
Hello all,
I just got done with my 4th appt. with my pcp. I have Healthalliance and
explained to him in august exactly what I wanted and needed for this surgery. He
started me on a diet and I have been back 4 times for checks. I have went up and
down only losing at most 10lbs. Well today he through a few bombshells at me. He
said that he got a letter from health alliance sayign they needed 6mths diet
with him. I said I thoguth that is what we are doing because I explained this to
you back in august. He said no I put you on a diet that was it. Next he tells me
he thinks I could lose weight on my own. I say if we were talking about 50lbs
maybe but I have to lose 190lbs of excess weight. He says you could lose that in
8mths if you wanted to. I just looked at him and wanted to scream, so now the
next 5 days I have to do a calorie count of what I have eaten and go see him
next tuesday. What do I do.? Should I look for another pcp. I should mention the
clinic I go to is where I have been going since
I was 16 so they have all my records. This is a new pcp though. I am now 31 and
weigh 310lbs and I don’t feel I can lose this weight on my own. He says that I
will fail at this also because stomach stapling isn’t the answer to being
overweight dieting is. Please help with advice am I being stubborn, I feel like
crying.
Thanks,
Diana
July 17th, 2006 at 8:53 pm
Yes, you need to find another PCP. Particularly one who has had patients with
GBS before. This PCP obviously has no experience with MO patients, and no
understanding of the disease process. I’m sorry to be so blunt, but they only
know what they’ve been taught, and they have their own biases which affect the
way they can "doctor." There is no way in Ghod’s Green Earth that you will
lose 20 lbs a month for the next 9 months. If you could have you would have,
bottom line. I’d get out of his practice before you feel like a failure,
and before you gain another 30 lbs. If you have to leave the clinic, you can
request a copy of your records, or have them forwarded to your new doctor.
That’s a minor thing. Diana, I’d go at it backwards. Find out who is doing
the surgery that is approved by your insurance (if you need to have insurance
pay) and call them. Explain that you are looking for a PCP who is aware of MO
issues, and ask if they can make any recommendations. Find out if they have a
support group. Go to a support meeting and talk to the other patients.
DEFINITELY you will need to change physicians, because it’s going to take him
a heck of a long time to figure out he’s wrong, and in the meantime it’s your
life that’s going downhill.
Pam in Niceville
August 15th, 2006 at 6:50 am
For the first 24 hours after surgery i will be in ICU. The nurse told me to
pack any toiletries I will want while in ICU seperate than the rest. WHAT WILL
I NEED IN ICU??
Other than chapstick. I know I will want that! Hubby said maybe toothbrush
and toothpaste..Because of the nasty taste in my mouth from anethetics…..
IM CLUELESS!!
Thanks
Crystal
Preop
11/18/03
Lap RNY
365/358/200 (mini goal)
August 15th, 2006 at 1:24 pm
Hi Crystal :0)
I’ve spent many days in ICU over the past few years.
Not from WLS but from a heart problem. You will
definitely want chapstick, toothbrush and toothpase,
deoderant and lotion. The sheets tend to dry out the
skin especially on your elbows. You may want to take
a hair brush with you and a scrunchie if you have long
hair.
Best of luck with the surgery! I’m still in the
referral stage and waiting for an appt. with a
surgeon.
My thoughts and prayers will be with you.
Cindy
March 13th, 2007 at 7:13 am
I just went to a pre-op meeting abd a nurse who had the surgery ran
it. She also said gum is not a good thing and later on it also can
make you hungrier so serves no purpose.