Weight loss

I'm new to the group, having attended my first seminar last Saturday
morning. I found Dr. Miles to be very "real" and forthright about all
aspects of both gastric bypass and the lap-band procedure. I have
been collecting all my medical records (finally got the last set in
this past week) and now am at a place where I need some good advice.
I am leaning toward the lap-band procedure and am trying to find out
the following: should I go ahead tomorrow (Monday) and call Dr.
Miles' office to schedule my initial consultation or first contact my
insurance companies (both primary & secondary) before my first doc
visit? I am concerned about whether insurance will pick up any of the
initial visit expense, etc. I have already had a sleep study and am
currently using c-pap nightly. I'm ready to move forward ASAP but
want to be sure I'm doing things in the right order.
I would greatly appreciate any and all feedback as I try to navigate
my way through . . .
Thanks,
Steph

I will be having surgery Friday August 2. I request if everyone could
put me on there pray list.
Thanks
Mickie

Round two of the pictures...
Tim.
PS: I forgot... ALL photo's are courtesy of Wes "Catfish" Robbins!

Last week was Felicia Wood's (ChanMan's Wife) Birthday, and today
(Sunday) is Joy Suggs Birthday, so last Friday night we had a little
impromptu birthday throw-down at Long Horns Steakhouse on 280 and
surprised the wimmin. I think we surprised everyone at the restaurant
too. And we took so many pictures that I kept hearing someone a few
tables over mutter something about sticking my camera where the flash
would never shine again. I think he was just jealous, probably because
no one ever threw him a shindig on his birthday.
It was good friends, good food, good laughs, and Wes. As the pictures
show, we had a ball (+/-8), and the way we looked at it was...we'll
probably never see those people at the restaurant again, so we cut loose
and had a good time. Felicia and Joy got lots of great presents too.
But the greatest present was shared by all, being surrounded by family
and friends! Our Wes had to work, Matt was at Caldwell Park watching
the next to last performance of The Taming of the Shrew with Jane, his
girlfriend of nine months (it was their anniversary), but we did make it
there with 1 out of 3. Caitlin had a ball too. She really loves coming
to the meetings and other get togethers with our WLS family.
OK, enough yacking, ON WITH THE PICTURES! Wes' comments are in white,
and Tim's are in Yellow.
Tim.

Wes FINALLY sent me the pictures he took of our Pontoon Boat trip on
Logan Martin Lake a few weeks ago. Out of the 7 of us, 3 were post op
(Wes Lisa, Joy), 1 pre-op (Chan), and 3 were no-op (Felicia, Barkly,
Tim). And as the the pictures show, yes indeedy, there is life after
WLS, and it's a ball!
But I think the real message here is about friends. There ain't NOTHING
you can't do with the help and support of your friends. So, get up, get
out and start moving your butt! Who cares if people look at ya funny,
the only looks I cared about was the way that Felicia and Chan look at
each other, and the way Wes and Lisa smile at each other with their
eyes, and the way Bark-Bark was looking at my lunch!
Today is Joy's Birthday, so I better quit rambling and go plan something
spontaneous and romantic for tonight. Here's the pictures from the SS
Titanic trip...
Tim.

My good friend Robin Shaling is scheduled for surgery on Tuesday,
July 30, 2002 with Dr. Miles. She has been to several Monday night
meetings, but not many Sat. meetings. She is a dear person.
Her daughters are upset that she is having the surgery and are not
supporting her at all. The want her to "try one more time to lose it
on her own." We all know about this.
No one in her family had taken off for her surgery on Tuesday. She
was going to drive herself to the hospital. I took off work so that
I could take her to the hospital and be there for her when she came
out. Friday afternoon, her daughter decided she would take off
work. As you can tell they are not being very supportive.
Robin is going through that "scared" phase that we all went through
before surgery. She does not have a computer, so is not involved in
the egroup. I would appreciate it so much if anyone who has the time
could give her a quick call with some encouragement. Her number is
680-1909. Tell her you are a member of FACES and a friend of Kathy's
and just wanted to wish her luck. It will only take a few minutes
and it would mean so much.
Thank you all for your help. Yall are the best.
Kathy Jebeles

Hey Guys
I found a cool new product that even you new post-ops will enjoy. It is called Angelo's Italian Ices. It comes in a 64 ounce container (kinda like Ice cream) one serving is 5 ounces and it contains only 13 calories and only 3 grams of sugar and 3 grams of protein. It is sweet and good flavored really good for hydration and an alternative to popsicles. It sorta makes you feel like you are getting to eat ice cream but it is more like a popsicle. I found it tonight at the super Walmart. It was in the freezer section after the ice-cream and before the popsicles. Hope you all enjoy it.
Love,
Robin Connell
Wanna See My Scar?

Just wanted to let everyone know that Rickie went for
his pre-admitting work-up today and for his vist with
Dr. Miles before surgery. We had a lot of questions
that were answered and he told us that he would
positivly do his surgery open. Then he told us the
great news that due to some problems with his
assistants that the surgery would have to be put off
until August 5th. THAT IS A FULL WEEK AWAY. But I
guess the Lord wants it that way and we shouldn't
complain. Just so it is done and everything is ok.
Keep us in your prayers as we do all of you. Glad to
hear Connie is doing better. Stopped to see Debbie
Bowen in room 659. She had hers Lap and was very sore
but talking great. If anyone is there in the next
couple of days stop and tell her Hi. Love, Lynda Davis

Has anyone heard from Connie? I tried to call her room at the hospital last night and got no answer. I bet she has already gone home. She is such a tough cookie. Connie, wherever you are, I hope you are well.

Love to all, Christy Wells :)

Mickie,
I talked with Chris this morn she's doing good.. Just been really busy she said!!!! She said she has lost 54 lbs !!!! Way to go Chris!!! And has lots of energy and she said she used to have to take an afternoon nap well not no more she said... She said that she hasnt checked her e-mail's or anything in a while .. I just wanted to update you !! I told her you were asking about her faces e-group.... :) Take care Kristy

Just a quick note to say I've got a surgery date. After
researching, seeing the doctors, going to meetings and making the
decision some 9 months later, I have finally got something to sink my
teeth into...September 16. My prayers and good wishes are with those
who will be going on before me, and my continued prayers for those
who are having difficulties now. Thank you for being here...
gwen

Has anyone heard from Chris? She was not at the last meeting. Does
anyone know how to contact her. I had her home number but I can't
find it now.
Mickie

Just wanted to let everyone know that Sherri Murdock and I went down to visit with Connie for a while yesterday. She was looking great and smiling again! Which was so nice to see. She was her sweet, funny self. And I know she will be up and at it in no time. Keep up the good work Connie!

Hope this finds everyone well. And thanks for keeping Connie in your thoughts and prayers.

Love to all, Christy Wells :)

Melissa, I know you're one smart cookie but I felt compelled to remind you that
fruit juices are loaded with natural sugar and can make you dump big time. Lots
of folks drink them but just be careful with them. They can also slow up weight
loss so be careful in that area too. Sugar free Tang is good if you're an OJ
lover. I'm not saying don't drink juices - just like everything else
"Moderation!" CONGRATS on your great weight loss. You are doing so good!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY GRANMAW PEG! I've decided to stop having birthdays so this year
I'll be celebrating the 12th anniversary of my 30th birthday. How bout that?
Can you say DENIAL?
Timmy, how's the computer coming?
Connie, get better fast! It was so good to see you and Jailhouse Joe Capone
today! Hang in there.
Kim, the 30th isn't far away! Will you be in OSE (Outpatient Services East) or
in our OR? I want to be sure to see you!
Laura C., get better! We're all remembering you in our prayers!
See ya later,
Rona

HELLO TO ALL,
JUST WANTED TO UPDATE YOU ON LAURA'S UPPER GI THAT SHE HAD TODAY!!! DR. MALIK SAID SHE WAS IMPACTED AND HAD REALLY BAD ULCERS..
HE GAVE HER SOME MEDS AND TOLD HER MAYBE THIS WILL HELP HER.... PLEASE KEEP HER IN YOUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS STILL.. SHE IS STILL SO WEAK... HANG IN THERE LAURA !!!!!! THANKS TO ALL FOR YOUR PRAYERS!!! LOVE KRISTY

Hi everyone,
Just wanted to ask that each of you to please keep Laura in your thoughts and prayers on Wednesday she is having another Upper GI .... She said she hasnt been feeling good at all and Dr. Malik is going to do the Upper Gi @ 9 am .. I will post and let you know the results!!!!! Please keep her in you r thoughts and prayers !!!!!!Also Connie too!!!!!!
Kristy

Hello everyone. I just wanted to let you know that I just talked to Joe, Connie's husband. She is still in recovery, he is waiting for her in her room. (#667) Joe said that Dr Miles had been in to see him and told him that there was a problem and he had to do the surgery open to correct it. Evidently, like they were afraid... When Dr Malik enlarged the opening there was a tear in the intestine. But, Dr Miles told Joe that this should make her feel much better and be able to eat soon.

Connie has had an incredibly positive attitude and I know she is going to be fine. But, I am asking everyone to keep Connie in your thoughts and prayers. And if you get the chance, give her a call (205) 838-6667. Or stop by to see her. Dr Miles told Joe that she will be there for another 2-3 days. I know she would love to have company in a day or two, when she is feeling up to it.

Thanks! And I hope everyone is doing great!

Love to all, Christy Wells

Hey all...went to the doc today...gotta have that HIDA Scan Friday
but I had my normal appoint and as of 6 weeks and 3 days I am down 44
lbs :)
One thing I talked to my doc about what citrus fruits...he told me to
stay away from them because the pulp can stop up your pouch...but
said that if I can find unsweetened or sugar-free and pulp free
juices I can have the orange and grapefruit juice again...
Anyone know where I can find that? It's not something I really see
too much
HUGS
melissa

Does anyone know where Connie went? I went to the hospital today
(Sunday) to see her and they said she wasn't there. Does anyone know
if she went home Saturday after the meeting?
Terri

GRANDMA I HOPE YOU HAVE A WONDERFUL BIRTHDAY!
MANY, MANY, MORE!
LOVE,
SHELBY

I know it's not until Monday, but I might still not be back up and
running by then so I thought I'd send it now while the laptop was still
working at least.
Tim.

How many of you like to grab your sweetie, drag along a blanket or a
chair, and have a nice relaxing evening watching LIVE Theatre in the
park??? Well, I do! And if you do, here's the skinny:
This is Matt Suggs (Tim & Joy Suggs son) first experience as the sole
set designer/builder for such an ambitious endeavor. The Park Players
and the Director, Ted O'Brien, asked Matt if he could help them kick off
their inaugural season by designing/building the set for this play using
only the materials and props that they currently had available to them.
Considering such limitations, Matt has done a wonderful job, and has
provided them with a creative stage with which to ply their artistic
wares.
The Park Players Present...
WHAT: William Shakespeare's "The Taming of the Shrew"
WHEN: Sunday (TODAY) June 21 @ 2:30pm
Friday, June 26 @ 7:30pm
Saturday, June 27 @7:30
WHERE: Caldwell Park (Highland Ave @ 24th Street South B'ham)
WHO:
Ted O'Brien DIRECTOR
Merideth Johnson STAGE MANAGER
Matt Suggs SET DESIGNER
Lenard Jowers Baptista
Ellise Mayor Katherina
Cynthiia Barr Bianca
John Eccles Vincentio
A. Clay Boyce Petruchio
Lewis Armstrong Jr. Gremio
John Wright Jr. Hortensio
Michael Redman Tranio
Nick Mayor Biondello
Gabrielle Metz Pendant/Haberdasher/Swing
Jennifer Saulter Servant/Peter/Tailor/Swing
Norman Ferguson Jr. Grumio/Lucentio
James Galbreath Messenger/Curtis/Swing
TICKET ARE $7.00 FOR ADULTS - UNDER 16 FREE!
Bring your blankets/chairs/coolers for a really cool evening of
Shakespeare under the stars! Easiest Parking will be on Highland Ave.
around the perimeter of the park, but, you'll have to use the stairs
down into the park. There is handicap parking available and a more
level approach at the rear of the park off 24th Street. They have even
been parking cars in the park in between the park and the Samford
Theatre building (the old Town and Gown Theatre).
The next Performance for The Park Players will be:
"The Comedy of Errors" beginning August 15th @ 7:30pm in Cladwell Park.
You won't want to miss this one either!
Tim.

DSL still not operational. Life @ 56k is so S L O W! BellSouth
states that DSL should be back by tonight. Anyone wanna bet?
Tim.

Hey Folks,
Don't forget that there's a support group meeting at MCE tomorrow at 3:00. 6MAC
meets at 12:30 for a sack lunch. Remember to bring several before photos of
yourself if you're going to participate in the fashion show (and that means you
too Granmaw Peg). It's going to be lots of fun and very informative. Can't
wait to see you there!
Love,
Rona
Your Bari-Godmother

I lost the UPS on Mr. Computer yesterday and when I disconnected it I
had to disconnect the modem line I had running through it. After
reconnecting the modem line, my DSL has ceased to exist ever since. I
might be back up later today (XX crossed fingers).
Tim.

Connie called last night from Medical Center East to let us know that
she called Dr. Miles office yesterday afternoon and they admitted
her. She is constantly throwing up. They at this time have her on IV
fluids. Connie has been such a trooper and wanting this surgery to
work for her. Talking with her last night (she is always the strong
one)she was exhausted and depressed & worried. Lets all pray that she
is better soon. She does not know when the second surgery will be. If
you get a chance give her a call. She will get through this with our
love and support. WE LOVE YOU CONNIE.

This is very long, but great and they are all so true. I found this on another
WLS site.
You Know You Are A WLS Patient When:

Hey all :)
How is everyone?? I have yet to be able to make it to a support group
but really want to...are they on set days? I weighed 2 weeks ago and
had lost 36 lbs and I have an appointment with the doc this Tuesday
(3 weeks since I had to go in with my gall bladder) so I hope that I
have lost a good deal more..at that point I had just scooted under
the 300 mark (cheers!!)!
I have to have a hide-a-scan tuesday in addition to my regular
appointment...that will be 6 weeks and 3 days since my surgery and I
would love to be closer to 290/280 ;) I dont really know what that is
but I know its something he wants me to have done cause of the pain I
was having a few weeks ago...
Anyway...hope to see you guys soon...if anyone is in my area that
would like to walk..I think I spotted a track in the park across the
road from my house..I live off of Crestwood Blvd just about 2 nmiles
from Century Plaza :)
HUGS
Melissa

I fixed the big mess I had started in the database! Maybe it makes
more sense now!
I will add other recipes soon.
Oh...Dr. Miles did call me today and explained that the reason I'm
having to have this procedure on Monday is because Dr. Malik didn't
feel safe pushing the balloon through my stricture - in that it
might tear or damage my intestine. So, in the operating room, Dr.
Miles will go thru my tummy with the laproscope and "watch" while
Dr. Malik does the balloon dialation. If there is a problem - such
as something being torn or damaged, Dr. Miles can fix it immediately.
I'm not anxious about it by any means, but I am ready for some
relief.
Love,
Connie

Just wanted to let you all know I was back on line and getting
emails. Having a hard time today, think that its finally setting in
that my dad will never be here again.
I have lost 61 pounds though if there can be anything positive.
thanks for all your support
Laura

Hi All! Have I got some good news for all of us! The FIRST EVER Faces
of WLS outdoor cookout and Fall Fling has been set! Here's the details:
When: OCT. 26, 2002
Were: Pell City Park, Logan Martin Lake, Pell City,AL. (maps to come)
When: All day!
Why: So we all can get together and have a good time and some good fun
Activities: Horseshoes, "Living Lawn Dart" (quick, somebody put a
target on Wes' back), All day cookout, FISHING (if there's water under
the piers)!!!, Swimming, Playland for the kiddies, GeoCaching, and the
best activity... being together!
So, what's it gonna cost? Only $10.00 per FAMILY! Bring the Husband,
Wife, Kids, Boyfriend, Girlfriend, Your favorite Mother-in-law, even the
the dog. Now if you want to bring the neighbors, or your
sister/brother's family, that's fine with us too, just ask 'em to bring
their $10 too. We will be taking up money over the next several
meetings to help cover the costs of renting the pavilion, buying the
meats and other food, buying the charcoal, buying the plates and
utensils, tablecloths, etc. And we're also asking for you to bring a
side dish or maybe even a desert dish of your own so that we can all
feel like we had a part in making this the best little get together in
WLS history.
There is NO cost for admission to the park, NO cost for parking, your
$10.00 covers everything. And to the best of my knowledge, this will be
a WLS history making event, so you definitely want to be a part of this
one! And if there's any "excess" funds, we will be creating a FACES
Party Fund so that we can do this again and again.
We know that this day, this place, this date, this and that isn't going
to be "perfect" for everyone, but after researching what was available,
and weighing all of the variables, this made the most sense for the
majority. And if you consider we have members ALL over the state (and
even Laura39 in CA too!), this was also one of the most centrally
located sites as well. So we're trying to get the word out so everyone
will have more than a plenty time to mark their calendars.
See the pictures below for a quick view of the place. Pictures courtesy
of Catfish Robbins! More info to come later...
Tim.

I am having a "diagnostic laporascopy" on Monday - hopefully this
will take care of the problems I've been having. Since the 5th of
July, I've been on a completely liquid diet, protein shakes, water,
a little juice, jello, s/f popsicles, coffee, tea. I'm getting
really bored with it! Dr. Malik had given me a script for Carafate
and Previcid for my ulcers and those seem to be helping some, but
I'm just ready to be "normal" and be able to eat my 2 spoonsful of
food without being sick everytime!
Thanks to everyone for your thoughts and prayers. I'm believing
that this little procedure will take care of everything. Did anyone
here (longer term postop) have to have this done?
Love,
Connie

Well I have been doing the walk away the pounds tape for one week, so
I decided to do the 2 mile tape today. Let me tell you it kicked my
butt. I needed it though, because I didn't feel like I was sweating
enough and such from the 1 mile tape. Joy, I don't see how you are
up to the 3 mile tape though, guess I will stick with the 2 mile for
awhile until I can lick it. Feels great though.
See ya all Saturday!!
Lisa

Hey Kim - if Dr. Eich does your surgery like he did mine you will not have any staples. He uses internal sutures so you won't have to get them out either. I had a couple that worked their way to the surface and he snipped them out but it was no big deal. I was worried I'd have lots of staples so that was a big relief for me! Oh - and I wanted to let you know that the TT doesn't actually go into the abdominal cavity so it's not as intense as other abdominal surgeries. For some reason the TT was unbelievably easy for me but even for other patients I've heard most of them say it was tons easier than WLS so keep your chin up!
Granmaw Peg - you may have to get over your shyness while we drag you kicking and screaming down the runway at the fashion show. I bet Tim would help me. You're a true beauty inside and out and we need a soul as lovely as you to show those other granmaws out there that WLS is available for them too. Won't you reconsider and be a super model? Pretty please?
Nan - you may want to see if your friend Marsha can get in touch with Carla Eason. Carla is part of this e-group I believe but she went through months of appeals and could probably give Marsha some good advice. We'll sure keep her in our prayers. I can forward you some good statistical data that Marsha can include with her appeal if you want me to. Let me know, ok? Oh and you're going to be in the fashion show aren't you?
Kristen - you sound GREAT little girl!! I can't wait to see you on Saturday. If you need me to I'll write you a note so you can skip out on Logan's Roadhouse on Saturday. You've just gotta come to the meeting! I mean your accomplishments are amazing! I'm so proud of you! You're really going to be a supermodel at the fashion show and I know you'll help other young women to know that they can follow their dreams just like you have!
Laura - so sorry to hear about you losing your father. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Tana - Congrats on your continued amazing progress. I know I can count on you for the fashion show - right???????
Tim - no matter how you fix squash .......I hate it. Sorry. I hate okra too. I also hate boiled peanuts. Ummmmmm.......I hate green beans worse than anything. (Pretty easy to figure out how I became morbidly obese, huh? If it's healthy I hate it.) But, the upside is - you guys prepare all this healthy stuff with such joy and heart that you make it sound good to me! (Except for the squash and just forget about me liking green beans even if they had butter cream frosting on them!) I'm happy to see all this recipe exchanging going on! Keep up the good work!
To everyone else - hang in there! We're doing great aren't we??
Love,
Rona
Your Bari-Godmother

I have made an attempt to set up the recipe database, importing only
ONE recipe for now. It's not set up in the table format, but I just
imported the file from word. I have been collecting recipes from
other OSSG boards since before my surgery. Also, I have checked out
several Diabetic, Low Fat, etc. cookbooks from the Library lately.
I will import as many recipes as I can real soon.
Everyone else, please, lets all share our good ideas! (At the
moment, I am just wishing I could have something other than a
liquid!)
Love,
Connie

Bean Medley
From Peggins
One can blackeyed peas, one can pintos, one can
garbonza, one can black beans, one can northern beans,
one can diced tomatoes, one can okra, 1 tblspn basil, 1
tspn salt, 1 tspn pepper, 1 heaping tblspn minced
garlic, 1 heaping tblspn minced onion, 1 heaping tblspn
dried parsley. Cook until desired texture. I like my
beans mushy like a soup so I cook mine for probably 2
hours on low stiring often, this too gives the flavors
time to mix together. It is always better after it has
been refrigerated overnight or frozen. You can use
whatever kind of beans you like and also you can use
taco seasoning or chili powder for a different taste

http://www.foodtv.com/foodtv/episode/0,6283,EM1F21,00.html
Emeril tackles Summer Squash! Recipes for:
Curried Squash Soup
Tempura Squash Blossom and Crab Packages with Hoisin Butter Sauce
Zucchini, Sausage, and Shrimp Torte
Mirliton Pie
I'm watching the show now, will report later...
Tim.

Hey people! Gosh, it's been so long since I've posted or been to a meeting! My
life has been all sorts of crazy lately, but I will be attending this Saturday's
meeting if Logan's Roadhouse can run without me! :o) Anyway, I just wanted to
say hello to everyone and post on my progress! For all of you who don't know me,
I had surgery on November 12, 2001 and have since lost a whopping 125 lbs!
That's 125 lbs in 8 months! I feel wonderful! I started off at 355 and now I'm
230...from a size 28 to a size 16! I feel like a million bucks! I've been
reading everyone's posts! Good luck all you future "losers" and congrats to all
of you present "losers"!!! I love you all! Also, whoever's heading up the whole
signing in process for the fashion show...SIGN ME UP! The more weight I lose,
the more confident I get! I can't wait to show everyone my accomplishment! Welp,
I better get going! Hope everyone is doing well! Love you lots!
~Kristen Burks~

Joy and I also extend our condolences to you and your family at this
time of sorrow.
Tim and Joy Suggs

Here is the info Rona sent out regarding the fashion show in the
latest newsletter.
Lisa
COME AS YOU WERE / GO AS YOU ARE FASHION SHOW
August 24th at 5:00 p.m.
Just in case I haven't told you lately.........THIS IS A BIG DEAL!
This is a fashion show for post op patients. It's your time to
shine! This is going to be a fun and exciting event. However, I
think this is also going to be a very educational event for
Birmingham and the surrounding area. As most of you know, David Neal
from FOX6 will be our emcee. We will have coverage on FOX6 and
possibly in the Birmingham News as well. I think we're honor bound
to show the public that we were beautiful before WLS and we're even
more beautiful after. I've had some of you tell me that you aren't
sure if you want to participate. Please allow me to encourage you to
be a super model for this wonderful show (yes - I'm groveling if you
can't tell, ha ha). It doesn't matter if your 10 days post op or 10
years post op we want you to be a super model. We've got the most
gorgeous escorts you can imagine and I have to tell you.........I
don't mind the idea of walking down the runway on the arm of a
gorgeous guy! And for you male supermodels, Kathryn, our beautiful
female escort, will be well worth a trip down the runway for you!
I've had dozens of people tell me they're planning to participate but
only about 10 have signed up so......LET'S GET SERIOUS! We're going
to have an organizational meeting after the Saturday meeting. It
should only last 15 or 20 minutes PLEASE PLAN TO ATTEND THIS MEETING
IF YOU'RE A SUPER MODEL! We'll also have a meeting after the Monday
night meeting.
Prior to the meeting you will need to:
1. Get together 6 or 8 "before" photos of yourself. On the back of
these photos please write your name, your weight and the date. These
photos will be scanned and returned to you at the fashion show. The
photos will flash on a large screen during your walk down the runway.
2. Fill out your entry form and leave it with us. I believe Wes is
going to post the entry form on our website - if not we'll have entry
forms available at the meeting.
3. Think of good songs to use during the show. Maybe a song that
motivates you (i.e. I WILL SURVIVE).
4. Go ahead and get your outfits together. It will help to have
plenty of time to choose the best way to "stuff" yourself and to see
how you can most easily wear your "after" clothes underneath the
stuffing and before clothes. We want this to be a SLICK production.
This is going to be an exciting show. You'll want to invite family
and friends to see how you've blossomed. If you're undecided on
whether or not to participate, let me just urge you to JUST DO IT!
It's gonna be GREAT!

Cindy is home from surgery and is still very weak. She has been
through a lot in the last few days. Lets all give her a big welcome
home. She said she is very weak.
Mickie

Ok, ok, I submit...........I want to do the walk away the pounds! Do they come on DVD? Our VCR was hit by lightening so we've only got the DVD. Of course I could use Sterling's little itsy bitsy teensie tinsie TV that has a VCR built in but I'd probably have to have bifocals or eye surgery after only a few times. Will you guys let me know if it comes on DVD and where to get it?
Congrats on the upcoming TT Kim! Dr. Eich does a great job. I know I have a high pain tolerance and even Dr. Eich called me a "tough cookie" but for me the TT was 10 tons easier than the WLS. Here's a great tip that you will be glad I gave you. Take a fanny pack to the hospital. When you have to get up and walk just pop the drain bulbs into the fanny pack and there's no pulling or tugging on the drains and no having to worry with clipping them to your gown, etc. I promise you'll be glad you did! The drains were the most agravating thing about the surgery. You're gonna do GREAT!
Carla, I can't tell you how glad I am that you're on the other side. We've been waiting for you for so long! You've just started a very exciting journey!
Connie, I am wracking my brain to come up with a good name for "Jailhouse Joe". He's such a nice guy. He came to visit me when you were having your scope the other day and we had a really nice visit.
Nancy, hang in there - sorry about the cellulitis. This too shall pass.
Everyone else - HEY! I don't get here very often but I think of you all the time. Don't forget to let me know if Walk Away The Pounds comes in DVD.
OH YEAH - DON'T FORGET TO SIGN UP FOR THE COME AS YOU WERE / GO AS YOU ARE FASHION SHOW THIS SATURDAY. I WANT EVERY SINGLE POST OP TO ATTEND. IT'S GONNA BE OUR TIME TO SHINE. GRANMAW PEG AND POPTART - THIS MEANS YOU TOO!
Love,
Rona
Your Bari-Godmother

Hey. Does anyone have any advice for the night b4 surgury? can i take a sleeping pill? i'm already nervous, and don't know how i'm gonna sleep? what did ya'll do?

Siotha

7-16-02 surgury date

We would like to remind you of this upcoming event.
Support Group Meeting
Date: Saturday, July 20, 2002
Time: 3:00PM - 6:00PM CDT (GMT-05:00)
This is our regular monthly meeting. We will be having a guest
speaker. Please contact facesofwls@... for information on
the speaker for this month.

HELLO ALL MY DEAR FRIENDS--PLEASE READ THIS AND CONSIDER YOURSELF HUGGED BY ME....GOD BLESS YOU AND HAVE A WONDERFUL WEEKEND.
HUGS & LOVE--POP TART

All this talk of squash, left Joy and I with a hankering. One that
could only be satisfied by a trip to The Farmers Market off of Finley
Blvd & Hwy 78 W. We headed out fairly early this morning and stopped
off by Krystal's for my usual $2.05 breakfast (hard to beat). Joy was
hungry too so she got the same thing I did, 3 eggs, 2 bacon and grits.
We passed some money around town to pay some bills (CONNIE: didn't see
any sign of LoJac Joe) and headed off to the Farmers Market. I used to
go there as a child with my GrandMother back in the 60's and 70's. It
was all still there, basically. The same sheds, the same concrete and
brick tables for the farmers to put their produce on, the same
SmokeHouse Restaurant with that wonderful aroma of smoldering Hickory.
There were some new things there too, like Mexicans. All over the
place, matter of fact, that was what constituted the bulk of the
"farmers". Now don't get me wrong, I have nothing against Mexicans, and
we have several good friends that are Mexican/Spanish. It's just that
I never figured they would one day take over the Farmers Market. The
world grows smaller every day. The upside is they have brought fruits
and vegetables from all over the world to the Birmingham Farmers Market.
I could actually buy Mango's and Plantains there today.
We wound up buying some beautiful tomatoes, a bunch of tender yellow
squash, some funny little pear shaped tomatoes (Joy knew the correct
name) I think they were called Roma tomatoes, and some beautiful peaches
and strawberries too. Still had to make a side trip by Bruno's on the
way home for some fresh cilantro, onions and bell peppers for our home
made salsa. They had all of that at the Farmers Market, but the heat
had taken it's toll. They had 1000's of all kinds of melons,
watermelons, cantaloupe, honey dew, mango, and some I couldn't even
begin to explain. I think we spent a whopping $15.00 at the Farmers
Market and almost didn't have room in the van for it all. $47.00 at
Bruno's!
After we got home with our "Country Stash", Joy turned into a Domestic
Goddess and went about the washing, slicing, peeling and cooking chores
like a woman possessed while I escorted Matt down to Caldwell Park
(Highland and Niazuma) to meet a Director for The Park Players. They
specialize in doing "Shakespeare in the Park" and have asked him to be
their technical consultant as they try to design/build their first set
for their first production. They asked him to be their Technical
Director, but he had to decline because of other commitments and his
upcoming freshman year at UAB. So they asked him if he would act as a
consultant and guide them through the steps. An impressive request of a
17 year old college freshman. But maybe it means his name is already
out there and there will be more people knocking on his door in the
future. I don't mean to sound like I'm bragging on our kids all the
time, and trust me, they have had their share of boo-boo's and problems
just like everyone else's kids. But, not only did I get to play "Dad"
and escort him down there because the Jeep quit on him the other day,
but after he got back from going to their warehouse to look at what
set/props they had to work with, he came back to the park and just
wanted us to hang out together while he waited for a couple of his
friends that are rehearsing for "Grease" at the old "Town and Gown
Theatre" to come out and see his new Jeep. It's been a while since I
tried to hang with the 17 year old crowd, but I must not be too bad at
it, they all came over and shook my hand too.
When we got back, Joy had cooked a feast! Squash casserole, Peach
Cobbler, some kind of Strawberries and Whipped Cream stuff she put
together, some sliced oven roasted chicken and her own home made salsa
and chips. All of it fresh, happy AND healthy! We'll eat off of this
feast for several days to come I'm sure.
Tim.

Hi All,

Guess I spoke too soon....It appears the cellulitis infection I had in March is back....I'm heading into my PCP this morning to see what they're gonna do...it's so dangerously close to my incision, I don't want to chance anything....This stuff is nasty....I'll let you know what's going on....If you don't hear from me, they probably admitted me for observation.....Just keep those wonderful WLS group prayers coming !!! They sure do work !!

Nancy

Thanks to all who sent congrats on my progress. I feel so much better
than I did 7 months ago.
I have to say again, for me, the Walk Away the Pounds tapes are just
the greatest. We all have to find the excercise we will stick with and
for me this works. I do have to make myself do it though because even
in my skinnier, younger yrs I hated to exercise! Now I have tried to
make it part of my "most days of the week" regimen, not for the weight
loss but because I know I should do it for my health. Even still, it
is sometimes easier said than done.
I am so proud of everyone on this site, no matter where you are in the
journey. Please keep your eye on the goal of improved health, not
pounds lost.
Love,
Joy Suggs

Funny I should get this today as we were just talking about these tapes.
I have never ordered from here, and the price seemed a little steep to
Joy and I, but, if you can't find them anywhere else...
Tim.

Well I had my labs drawn on 6/17 for my six month check up with Dr.
Miles, I had these drawn from my pcp, my lovely insurance requires my
labs to be sent off to LabCorp or LabSouth or I have to pay a $100
deductible. Well I should have already had my appt with Dr. Miles
for my six month check up as today I am 7 months out, so I went by to
pick up my results today. They gave me a copy of lab work from Aug
2001. NOT!!! I went back in and told them it was drawn June of this
year, and I need the results from it. Well low and behold my blood
is still sitting in their refrigerator, it was never picked up.
Argh!!!
Now I get the lovely pleasure of going by on Monday morning and
getting sticked again. Now I will have to beg Dr. Miles forgiveness
for being so late on my appt, I don't want to go without my labwork
in hand. Oh well, life goes on.
I have done my walking away the pounds for the 3rd day in a row, I am
pretty pleased with myself. I don't normally stick with exercise but
these are really easy to do and it sure dosen't feel like I have gone
a mile. The tape only lasts about 18 min also. COOL!!!
Hope everyone is doing well.
Lisa
-67 lbs since 12/11/01
Dr. Miles MCE

If you want to...I posted a few new pics of me...I don't have any of
Joe yet....but I wish I had one of him this morning! LOL
Connie

I just spoke to Cindy McMurry's mother in law. She was suppose to
have surgery this morning at 8:30. Some way everybody got there wires
crossed. Anyway she was suppose to have surgery with Dr. Schmitt this
morning but he is out of town (unaware of scheduled surgerys) so our
other HERO, The HANDSOME DR. LES MILES IS COMING TO HER RESCUE AND
WILL DO THE SURGERY THIS AFTERNOON FOR HER.
SHE WAS SO UPSET WHEN SHE WOKE UP FROM THE ANTHESIA AND FOUND THE
OPERATION HAD NOT BEEN PREFORMED THIS MORNING. So in case anyone
calls and checks on her she has not been put in a room as yet.
Mistakes happen and we move on......

The joke is on Joe, my hubby, this time and he is totally
embarrassed, but I just had to share it with all of you. All of you
need to help me come up with a "name" for him now, like JOE THUG or
somethin'!
This is a TRUE story! It just happened this morning. Read
carefully!!!!!
Joe (for those that of you that do not yet know him he's a big
ole' boy and is like a huge, sweet teddy bear!!) had gone out to do
some errands this morning. As he was traveling on a little back
street in the Roebuck/Huffman area, he saw something in the street
that appeared to be money! So....he stopped his truck and found it
to be a $20.00! Did he keep it???? Wouldn't you? LOL
The next thing he knows, there are what seemed like 12 police cars
surrounding him, the officers are standing around his truck holding
their 45's on him, telling him put his hands on the dash, then had
him step out of the vehicle and they cuffed him!!! I gathered from
his voice that they were pretty rough with him and he was very
shaken! He was totally freaked out! He told them to call an
officer with the County, who is a personal friend, and they quickly
informed him that he would get his phone call when they got him
downtown that they were taking him to jail for BANK ROBBERY!
Now...mind you...there have been occasions when he would be going to
the store of something and ask me if I needed something...and my
response to that question is normally "yes....I need a sack of one
hundred dollar bills!" BUT - I never thought I was married to a
Bank ROBBER!
Apparently Americas First Credit Union had just been robbed this
morning. The $20.00 that Joe found had a tag on it, whereby it
could be traced! The officers questioned him for what seemed like
at least 30 minutes. Then the FBI arrived and questioned him. He
finally realized what had happened and told the FBI agent that he
would NEVER, EVER again pick up even one penny if he were to see it
lying on the ground!!! He said they thought that was funny he was
SERIOUS! As it turned out he did not EVEN match the description
of the real bank robber. Can you just see a 400-pound man robbing a
bank????
Not to offend anyone...but I have to say.....Birmingham's Finest
Does IT Again!
Oh...after telling me the whole story, Joe asked me did I think it
was funny. I replied that to me, it was kinda sad. When he asked
me why I thought it was sad, I said because they didn't even let him
keep the $20.00! LOL
Ok...so now groupies....what "name" shall we give to Joe? My
favorite nickname for him is "Joebert".....you know kinda like my
dog who is named Buddy is nicknamed "Budward"- but this incident
calls for more than Joebert...don't you agree? LOL ROFL
I don't know how to do a poll on this, but I think we need one! LOL
Love,
Connie

WOOHOO! -88 pounds! I am sooooooo happy for you! You are such an
inspiration to us all!
Did anyone happen to see the "Biography" program about Carnie
Wilson? I guess it was on TV Wednesday nite - after my nite nite
time! Joe had taped it for me and I watched it this AM while
getting ready for work! It was sort of like a mini version of the
story she gives in her book - Gut Feelings. If you missed it, check
the listings, it might come up again, or check at the website
biography.com for more info. I think you would all love it!
Oh...and about my stricture...Peggins (I think) had asked if they
stretched it last Monday...yes a little bit, but Dr. Miles told me
yesterday that Dr. Malik wasn't sure it was stretched enough because
of the inflamed and ulcerated condition of my tummy. Dr. Miles also
said that they had discussed taking me back in the O.R. and have Dr.
Miles also go in with a scope (from my tummy) and watch....I was
like....UH UH
that since Dr. Malik had not mentioned it to me, he must have
decided that it was not necessary! Shesh! I don't wanna be back in
O.R. unless it for a TT or something like that in a year or so!
Ok enough of my babbling for today.
Love,
Connie

Hey all....Pop Tart, Granmaw, Lisa, Peggins - thank you for your
thoughts and prayers regarding Joe.
His visit with Dr. Miles went well. Joe seemed a little concerned
when Dr. Miles wanted to do a "Dopler Scan" on his leg because he
has some swelling in his right ankle. Dr. Miles felt it should be
checked out due to possibly creating a greater risk of blood
clots...but Debra (in Dr. Miles office) and I both worked hard to
ease Joe's mind that it's ONLY a precaution and that is a positive
thing! Besides that, Joe was upbeat and positive regarding the
other tests and appointments with other docs he will be seeing.
Peggins - the diet Sprite sounds good! Please don't overdo it or
get in the habit though, ok?
It's a real challenge to keep myself satisfied this week on liquids
only. Broth, s/f popsicles, water and protein drinks. UMMMMM!
Lisa...anxious to check out your new product.
PopTart - try to find the tapes on half.com. I think you get $5.00
off your first purchase there. If you need a code for the $5.oo
off, let me know and I'll try to get one for you. I've bought
books, CDs and other misc. off that site before. Always good stuff!
Nan...Praise the Almightly ONE for the blessings regarding your
grandchild and her mom!
Love to all,
Connie

Just a brief update. I am 7 months post lap rny today,
I weigh 179 for a loss of 88lbs since surgery, 103
from my top weight of 282. my 6mth labwork was perfect
and I couldn't be happier to have good health
restored. The smaller sizes are nice too. I am in a
L/XL depending on the cut and maker of the clothing.
When I went into surgery I wore 4xl scrubs. I now wear
L. My prayers are with everyone, no matter where you
are in this journey!
Love,
Joy Suggs
s/p lap rny 12/10/01
Dr. Miles MCE
267/179/142

Going to eat with Wade and Roner??? Didn't I hear somewhere recently
that was a bbbaaaaaddddd thing <grin
It was great, we went to Rick and Bubba's restaurant. Glad to be back in the loop of everything, now if I can just claim my time on the computer everyday. LOL
Lisa

I HAVE BEEN HAVING A LOT OF TROUBLE WITH
BURPING TODAY TOO.
Avis, I used to have problems also, well I actually still do. I find if I eat to much or sugary foods (dosen't have to be candy) potatoes or starchy things do it also, I have the burps, it is a running joke if you go out to eat with me, Lisa is burping again. I can't stop it either, I just have to let it flow. Now I don't sit around belching real loud, but if you are sitting next to me you can hear me. LOL
Hope it gets better!!
Lisa

Cindy will be having surgery at 8:30 in the morning with Dr.Schmitt.
She is READY READY READY to be on the other side. She will be at
Medical Center East. Three Big Cheers for Cindy......................
HIP HIP HOORAY....HIP HIP HOORAY....HIP HIP HOORAY
I TOLD HER SHE BETTER BE ON THE ALERT BECAUSE OUR DEAR TIM WILL TRY
TO TAKE A SHOT AT HER WITH THE OLD DIGITAL.......
lETS ALL KEEP CINDY IN OUR PRAYS. Her bowel prep went well....ugk....
Love
Mickie
280/surgery Aug 2

HI EVERYONE GRANMAW WOULD LIKE FOR ALL OF YOU TO READ THIS. IT IS FULL OF GREAT INFORMATION............

OH Granmaw! NOT WLS again! Just the endoscopy! But you know
what....even if I did have to do the surgery again, I would.....I
bet most of you feel that way too!
For those of you who know Joe, my hubby, he goes to Dr. Miles today
@ 2 for his initial consult. Please keep Joe in your thoughts and
prayers. He has some health issues that WLS would definitely
improve, if not completely eliminate. I worry that he's doing this
mostly for me (because he knows I'm very much Pro WLS) and I really
need peace and reassurance that he's making this choice for himself.
Take care everyone....Love you all.
Connie

Peggins....no - I was so out of it, I barely remember anything he
told me, but I intend to ask him next Monday what caused them, also,
when his office called yesterday to give me the time, etc. for next
Mondays test, the girl did tell me that I do have a stricture. No
wonder I couldn't get anything more than water down!
Love to all,
Connie

I was just wondering how many have had their sugery at Shelby Medical
Center? Congratulations to all who have crossed over and who are
doing a great job on their weight loss...I have my first appoinment
in a few weeks...Barb

Connie, I am sorry to hear about this. At least you aren't feeling
bad. Hope the scripts help and all is well on Monday. Let us know
how you are doing.
Lisa

Well I know this is going to shock some of you. I actually broke the
seal on my Walk away the pounds tape's today. I did the mile tape,
and it was great. Sure didn't feel like I had walked a mile, I think
I would have to put one of those things on that tells you how far you
walked to believe I had actually done a mile, much easier than a mile
on the treadmill. Went by alot faster also.
My weight loss has been real slow lately and I hope this gets it back
moving. I had started back doing all my protein shakes a couple of
weeks ago, I had slacked off to doing one or two a day, now I am back
up to three a day without fail. We have discovered a new protein
drink that we really like, hopefully we will have some at the next
meeting.
Well we are off to eat dinner with Wade and Rona, so I will talk to
you all later. Sorry I have been so sparse around here, I finally
got caught up on all my email last night, I was a month behind, so
maybe I can stay up with everything and have alittle more input. LOL
Love you all,
Lisa
-67 since 12-11-01

Hey all :)
Well last Wednesday I called Dr. DeWitt and he wanted me to go and
have an ultrasound on my gall bladder. From what they *saw* they say
they think it's sludge in the gall bladder...lovely term...also went
to see Dr. D and he gave me a trial bottle of Nexium cause I did have
a little gas and wants me back in tomorrow for a "hide-a-scan" or
something like that...soooo I will update when I am done :) I did
weigh though and I had dropped another 6 lbs so thats 36 lbs gone
forever :))
HUGS
Melissa
Lap RNY 6/6/02
335/299/150

Ok...they did the endoscopy yesterday. Dr. Malik said my stomach
was "ulcerated" so I have to go back next Monday and do it again.
In the meantime, I'm on total liquids and taking 2 scripts. I'm not
feeling bad...atleast not yet!
Love,
Connie

I think our sweet Nan meant for this email to go to the group instead of me.
Thanks! :)
Rona

I'm 7 weeks post-op and should be able to add regular foods to my
diet and eat 3 meals a day. NOT! I cant even eat some of my soft
foods that have been substaining me. I have tried a variety of soft
fishes and vegetables, etc but after 2 bites (chewing & eating slowly)
back it comes till I have dry heaves. Did anybody else have this
problem and find any solutions? Meats are definitly off the menu for
awhile as well as eggs. I need PROTEIN badly. Any suggestions?

Hi everyone, Haven't posted in a long time but I have
been keeping up with all the GREAT milestones of the
wonderful friends in the Funny Farm. Joy: way to go
with the 85 lbs------Peg: Hope your mom is feeling
better ----Avis:I really look forward to the little
pictures on your posts-------Connie: I am so happy
that you have done so well all along. My thoughts and
prayers are with each and every one of you. My husband
(Rickie) has a date with Dr. Miles on JULY 29 th at
MCE. He is truly on a cloud! He has prayed for this a
number of years and is so ready to HOPEFULLY get off
the insulin (type II) and some or all of his other
meds. He goes for the pre-op class with Rona on the
22nd and his pre-op tests on the 25th. Please keep us
in your prayers. Some of you might possibly remember
us at the meetings. He has a Santa beard and I always
have to do the talking when it comes time to introduce
ourselves!! Hope to see everyone at the next meeting.
Lynda Davis ( Tim: have you or Wes heard anything
from Chan? We got to know him and Felicia while going
thru some of the testing. We would like to know they
are ok)

I hope all of you are having as good of a time as I am! All the kids
are home, just got through with "grill duty" and now we're fixing to sit
down to a 4th of July/Birthday Combo meal! See y'all soon!
Tim.

well gang I made it, my first day back at work. whats funny I thought oh 12 hours with a half hour break. boy was that a joke went to work at 7 am and had no break and did not get off until 830 PM after they switched floor on me at 3 PM. so i ended up with a total of 14 patients altogether. but I made it so that's all that matters. think i will be going back to nights. talk to you guys soon
Laura

Hey all
I am 1 month outta surgery..I have had a pretty easy time of it til
last night I started feeling this really bad pain in my tummy...on
the right side...it subsided but flared up today while I was at
work...it is hurting now...I dont see why it would be gas but could
it?? Has anyone had gall bladder probs after their surgery? I have no
idea what it is I just want it GONE from me...
melissa

Hey guys...
Once again, I apologize for not posting more. I continue to keep up
with each of you.
Can I get a drum roll please?
After way too much time (ugh!), BC/BS did not receive my pre
determination papers until Monday, June 24th... and... I was approved
on Friday, June 28th. That's right! Only 4 days! INCREDIBLE!!!! I
can now stop complaining about how long it took for the doctor's
office to submit the package. I am officially pre-op! I have a
surgery date of Monday, August 12th. Was beginning to wonder if I
would ever get this far! All in God's time, though.
Thanks for your support and your prayers.
Take care,
Kim V

Hi! I'm siotha. I'll be having surgury July 16th. My mom is 15 yrs post op from this same surgury. And i look forward to reading/hearing about ya'll stories and tips for the next 2 years.

I hope everyone has a happy 4th of July. I want everyone to be very
careful and keep seat belts buckled if traveling. Be safe my
friends..........
Love
Mickie

Vicki Hildebrand here. I just wanted to share with everyone a
wonderful experience I've had at a restaurant since my WLS. Each
time I've gone to a restaurant I've dumped - no matter what I eat.
On Friday we had our anniversary dinner at Bennigan's in Trussville.
I was very honest with the waiter and told him about my surgery and
that I could have only very small portions with no fat and no sugar
if possible. I was diagnosed with gallstones on Tuesday so no fat for
me until I have surgery AGAIN (that's a whoolllllleeeee different
discussion).
The waiter pointed out that we could add to Dan's order a skewer of 8
grilled shrimp for only $4.99. The shrimps were great with lemon
sprinkled on them. It took a while but I ate about 5 of them because
they were medium sized - totalled about 3 ounces. I needed to eat as
much as possible because with the gallbladder attacks I haven't been
able to eat as much as 300 calories a day.
Anyway, I just wanted to share a positive experience with a
restaurant - MY FIRST.
Vicki

[INLINE] Hi Laura Im so glad to hear that you are still doing well. I spoke too soon about the nausea episodes--they're back with a vengence. If I eat anything I feel so sick. So I am at the point where I dont want to even think about eating. Not even soup sits well on my new little tummy. I am still having some trouble with a lack of energy, it had been improving but with the return of the dreaded nausea so has the lack of energy...Im hanging in here though. I wont get frustrated and upset that wont do me any good. It is bound to get better one of these days...
Congratulations everyone on your terrific weight loss and to you Kim for that size 14 WOW...Laura your weight loss is great too!! Keep up the good work and May God Bless All of You.
Rona so glad to see that you and your other half had a great time in Las Vegas. I cant wait to hear about all the new things you learned. Im also a weekly visitor to the alabama thrift store. My favorite store is the Alabaster location.
Hugs & Love--Pop Tart
Open RNY May 20th. 2002
Dr. Miles--MCE

Hi All,
It's so good to be home! Wade and I got home from the ASBS (American Society for Bariatric Surgeons) Conference in Las Vegas yesterday. It was amazing and so informative. I have about a gazillion products to share with you and lots of ideas, etc. I felt like a kid in a candy store. I got to meet Carnie Wilson and talk with her a while and even had my picture taken with her. That was really cool. I expected her to be very celebrity-ish but she was so down to earth and approachable. She wanted to know the details of folks weight loss and took as much time as necessary with everyone who met her. I have to say I was totally impressed. The next day we were in the lobby and Wade had to run back to the room for something. When he got back he said he'd ridden up 26 floors by himself in the elevator with only one other person - Carnie! How about that? He said she was just as nice as before.
We walked all up and down the strip in the 110 degree heat. It was fun but really drains the energy out of you. I'll bring the photos to the next support group meeting. Every minute that we weren't attending meetings we were "playing tourist". Las Vegas sure is a sparkly place. We didn't do much gambling at all - don't have the touch for those slots so we might as well just flush our money away. We were with some folks who really had the midas touch though. They'd win every time they'd play almost. Talk about jealous!

Hey everyone!
Well as of today, I left the hospital 3 weeks ago from having my
surgery and as of my doctor visit this past Tuesday, I had lost 20
lbs since I left the hospital and 30 all together. I go back again
on July 23rd for my next check up. I can not say enough about Dr.
DeWitt. He made me feel very at ease, my surgery went perfect and I
had no stitches (some tell me they have some stitches) to be taken
out. My incisions are healing nicely and I have only thrown up 2
times, one of which because I think I ate some tuna before I was able
and the other because I KNOW I ate some turkey too fast.
My energy has flown through the roof and I feel really good. I am
going out today and finding a walking path so I can get more active.
The only complication I had was when they took my IV out, my arm was
quite swollen. Dr. DeWitt looked at it and said that due to my
fragile veins in my left arm, that that was common sometimes. The
swelling went down and now the pain has subsided mostly. The only
pain I have is that sometimes the place where the IV was put in my
hand is sore to the touch.
I am also trying to find a time to get to a support group to meet
some others who have gone through this. I work crazy hrs and it
stinks LOL.
So..HUGS to all and I look forward to getting back on here and
talking to you all!
sweet Melissa

Our indoor cat, TiggR, has decided to take up a life of crime. And it
seems her preferred method of attack is jump her victim from behind, and
guess who her preferred mugging victim is? Right! ME! I don't know if
she thinks it's cute, silly, or whether she's been watching The
Discovery Channel too much, but something has to give. I'll be standing
up talking to someone and she'll jump me from behind! A 6' leap
straight up my back, and she's an 11 pound cat! Sometimes she doesn't
make it quite all the way up to my shoulder, so she engages "4 Paw
Drive" and makes her own trail! Really painful too. Then once she
makes it to my shoulders, I naturally stoop a little, and she backs her
butt up my neck, plopping it down on the top of my head so I look like
I'm wearing a coonskin cap, only BACKWARDS. I'm about ready to let the
Pet Psychic have a shot at her.
Tim.

HEY EVERYBODY!! TODAY IS SUCH A GREAT DAY. NOT ONLY IS TODAY MY 1ST BIRTHDAY AS THE NEW ME, BUT I ALSO HAVE A NEW NIECE. MY BROTHER AND HIS WIFE BECAME THE PROUD PARENTS OF A BABY GIRL. MAHALEY ELIZABETH CRAIG (NOT SURE OF THE SPELLING) BORN 7:14AM, 7LBS2OZ, AND 20&1/2 INCHES. SHE IS ADORABLE!:) I TOLD MY SISTER-IN-LAW THAT ME AND MAHALEY WILL BE ABLE TO CELEBRATE EVERY YEAR TOGETHER. IT IS SO HARD TO BELIEVE THAT THIS TIME LAST YEAR I WAS JUST BEGINNING MY INCREDIBLE JOURNEY. I WAS ASKED YESTERDAY.... "NIKKIA, AFTER ALL YOU HAVE BEEN THROUGH ARE YOU SURE YOU DID THE RIGHT THING?" I HAVE NEVER ANSWERED A QUESTION SO FAST IN MY LIFE. "OF COURSE AND I WOULD DO IT ALL AGAIN TOMORROW!!!" ANY OF YOU WHO ARE JUST BEGINNING...DON'T EVER GIVE UP!!! IT IS WORTH IT ALL TO LIVE A NORMAL LIFE. WELL I GUESS I BETTER GO. I GOT A BABY TO GO SPOIL (LIKE I DIDN'T HAVE ENOUGH BEFORE) THIS MAKES 4 NIECES AND 5 NEPHEWS...:)
LOVE YA,
NIKKIA CRAIG
SURGERY DATE: 6-27-01
-145LBS SINCE SURGERY
-160LBS ALTOGETHER

I went to see my regular physician for the crud and I brought up the
gastric bypass surgery and he said that in three years one can gain
all the weight back that was lost after the surgery...He said to ask
someone who has had it done for three years or more and I do not know
anyone that has had it that done that long ago....Does anyone know of
someone who had it done then and has gained by all their weight? He
has been the only negative person so far....Thanks in advance for
your help.....Barb

With summer stretching it's legs, the backyard grill season is upon us.
A hallowed Southern tradition passed on from Father to child so that
the family grilling "secrets" will live on forever. Men, traditionally,
are entrusted with the family sear pit chores, but they are not alone,
oh no. The Wimin of the house are an integral part of the grillin'
picture, matter of fact they are quite handy to have around. Let's take
a realistic look at the steps that are involved in the typical family
BBQ and you can clearly see just how handy those Wimin can be...
Definition of Outdoor Barbecuing

Tim Suggs wrote: "And carp and drums can get real big too. Definitely big enough to snap a rod, maybe the one you let go is out there cruising right now, calling out softly... "Wes, Wes Robbins, come catch me..."Tim. "
Hi Tim and All,
It's been a while since I have been out in the boat fishin' , George and I were fishing on the pier at Bibb County Lake the other day and he hooked a HUGE Carp that broke his line after a 10 minute fight and then a few minutes later he hooked into another that we managed to Land it was 14 pounds and 6 ounces, in the carp world thats average to Medium! The lake there has much bigger ones in it too. When carp fishing you need a heavy pole and reel and use a small strong hook with a dough ball for bait, just a piece of bread rolled into a ball. I never keep em' but they are FUN to catch and require 2 people and a net to land once they get that big.
I am attaching 2 pictures to this e-mail so you can see how big it is.
Have a great day..
Wes
[INLINE]
[INLINE]

I found a protein supplement the other day that gives me 20 extra grams
of protein. It has less than one gram of sugar but I am concerned that
it has 12 grams of fat. It is a prepared shake from carb solutions. I
get it just below freezing, shake it real good and sip on it off and on
all day. It seems to taste real good but alittle on the expensive side,
about $2.50 per bottle.
Does anyone else have a protien supplement they use? What is it? Where
do you get it? How do you use it? What do you all do to supplement
your protien to get your 64 grams per day?
How about vitimans? How often do you take your multivitman? B12?
Calicum supplement? What do you take for a calicum supplement? What
strength of B12 do you take? Can anyone give me any suggestions?
Thanks for your responses?
Love in Christ,
Nan Crites

Well...I was going to write a little "Ode to Magnesium Citrate"...but
I didn't want to scare anyone off!! <sour face
Here's my helpful hint for the day, that actually came from my
beautiful, 15 year old niece who happens to have Cystic Fibrosis (she
has to swallow a TON of yucky stuff!):
Have a popsicle in your hand when you are ready to begin drinking the
stuff. Rub the popsicle on your tongue for a few minutes - that will
numb your tongue. Now drink that stuff through a straw so you can
drink it fast (learned that in college <grin
break, just start with the popsicle again to get the taste out of
your mouth.
I hope this helps someone out there. It sure helped me! Honestly,
NOW THAT IT'S OVER, it wasn't really that bad!!
This is probably my last post for a couple of days...I'll let ya'll
know when I arrive safely on the "other side"!
Blessings to you all!
Cindy L.

I know that Christy Wells had asked for this info, but I wanted to
post it here if there are others needing this information.
The support group leaders name is Paula Brewster and her telephone
number is 256/546-2503. I understand they have 2 meetings each
month, but please check with Paula for details.
Love to all,
Connie

Just in case y'all wanted to get a little more accurate on some of our
"locations", here ya go...
MCE (Medical Center East - WLS Mecca of the South!):
Medical Center East
50 Medical Park East Drive, Birmingham, AL 35015
(205) 838-3000

We always have time for funny stories Cindy, anytime your ready. I'd
love to meet your husband, and he's welcome for a fish-a-long anytime we
go. Wes (Catfish Robbins), George, ChanMan, Tony and a few others have
all had fun fishing together. We tend to go to the same places because
of access issues for some of us. My personal favorite and Secret Big
Bass Capital of the South is Lake Purdy. I think Wes and Lisa favor a
public lake in Bibb County, and the lakes at OMSP (Oak Mtn. State Park)
have seen their share of mine and Wes' smiling faces too. Wes has "THE"
boat, so he gets to be Captain and the rest of us landlubbers follow his
wake.
Aside from just the joy of fishing, it is good exercise, clean air, good
friends and helps others see "life after WLS" is indeed possible, and
FUN! So if your husband want to put up with us, he's got an open invite
anytime he's available, we'd love to have him.
Tim.

Avis Marie... We missed you tonight at the meeting. I was so hoping
you and Ronny would be there. I did get to meet a couple of faces
tonight that I have been typing to. I got to meet GranmawPeg!!! And as
promised, I got slathered on both cheeks with kisses, and loved every
minute of it too! And I got to tell y'all, Granmaw don't even look old
enough to be in the "G" category. And she's gonna look so young as the
months roll by that she might have to just go by "Peg". The meeting was
a blast, as always!
Tim.

Hi gang, Tim here... I got this from one of the disabled hunting lists
I subscribe to and thought I'd pass it along y'alls way in case anyone
here knows of anyone that might like to participate.
Tim.
Date: Mon, 24 Jun 2002 20:30:11 -0500
Sender: DSULLIVAN@...
From: David Sullivan <dsullivan@...
Subject: Bowfishing Tournament for Disabled
To: BMDISABLED@...
If you may be interested in participating in a night-time bowfishing
tournament the night of Aug. 2nd, 7:00 p.m. at Cooter's pond near
Montgomery please contact Bruce Franklin ASAP at GWhunter98@...
<mailto:GWhunter98@...
area fishermen. This is a ton of fun, a cross between fishing and
hunting. I promise you?ll be hooked!
Thanks,
David Sullivan
Buckmasters American Deer Foundation
Disabled Services
http://www.badf.org/DisabledHunters.html

As the quality of customer service everywhere seems to heading downhill
like a runaway freight train, it seems to me that it's when going thru a
fastfood drive thru that I hear the underside of customer service really
scrape the bottom. Joy and I (just as you) have had some really wild
experience at our local drive thru's, like...
Eastwood KFC: They stop you in "mid order" and tell you what they have
left.
Irondale Burger King: "Welcome to Burger King, we don't have no lettuce
for the Whoppers, no tomatoes or pickles either, no Coke, no french
fries, and we're out of napkins, can I take your order..." No wonder
they have plywood over the windows these days! Out of Business!
Eastwood BK: I pulled up to the order pole and this real nice sounding
lady asked to take my order, I ordered, being sure to be polite by
saying "yes ma'am", "no ma'am" many many times, then pulled around for
my food. Much to my surprise, the person who handed me my food was a
man. I asked if he was the one that had taken my order, he said yes, in
the same "nice sounding lady" voice I had been talking to on the
speaker, so I said "I'm sorry, I thought you were a woman". He looked
at me, smiled, licked his lips and said "Should've been"! They too are
out of business.
Eastwood Taco Bell: I got a half empty pack of Kool Mild cigarettes and
a Jimmy Hale Mission lighter in the bag with my tacos.
Eastwood Arby's: They had apparently run out of napkins, so a quick
thinking employee started putting wads of toilet paper in the drive thru
bags - YUCH!
I'm sure y'all too, have you own "drive thru" horror stories to tell,
but in the meantime, here's how to fight back and let them see how the
shoe feels on the other foot....
Tim.
FUN THINGS TO DO AT A DRIVE THROUGH
1. Drive through the drive-thru in reverse and let your passenger order
2. Ask prices of everything on the menu and then order something that
you did not ask the price for.
3. Pretend like your window is broken. Tell the employee this. Order
with your door open, pay with your door open. Roll down window and take
food through the window.
4. Go to McDonald's and demand a big breakfast at 11:30 at night. Put up
a fight.
5. Pay for a large order in pennies and nickels unwrapped.
6. Order in another language. Be careful what neighborhood you are in.
7. When asked if they can take your order, tell them you are just window
shopping and drive on.
8. Laugh sadistically when asked if you would like ketchup.
9. Ask how they fit into that little box.
10. If they make you wait, make them wait when they come back on.
11. Demand to speak to the manager. When he comes on, complain that you
did not like the way the employee said ''May I take your order?''
12. When asked if they can take your order say ''Why, can I take yours?''
13. If they ask you to wait, order anyway and keep doing it till they
yell at you.
14. Pretend like your car broke down. Ask for assistance in moving it.
When they come out, drive away.
15. Tell them you have to use the bathroom.
16. Order a cup of water and two napkins. That's it.
17. Don't order when they come on. Just sit there. If a line forms
behind you, get out of the car and cause a scene.
18. When they hand you your food, hand them a bag back with all the
trash from your car in it.
19. Just stare at them when you pay and get your food. Don't break your
stare.
20. Honk your horn the whole way through the line.

Dear WLS Friends,
I received the following letter from Sylvia Odom and she asked that I share it with you....
Just wanted to write you a note and let you know we are doing OK.
I also want to thank everyone for their support during both our hospital stays and the many prayers that were offered up on our behalf. God's presence was very real in the midst of the storm. Your group is such an asset to those who go through this surgery. I was so impressed that Deb was there before and during the surgery and kept me so well informed.
Dave always looked forward to the support group meetings. He was in his prme with an audience he could entertain! No one could have ever foreseen what was to come. I feel everything possible was done to remedy the problems with what we knew. I wasn't ready to let him go, but that was beyond my control.
I know God is sovereign and we are just trusting Him moment by moment. I have a wonderful family and a tremendous group of friends and church family that will take care of us.. Our family of police officers are also here for whatever we need.
Love,
Syl & the kids
Please continue to keep Sylvia and her family in your prayers and may God Bless.
Thanks,
Debbie Estep

for some reason my emails are not going thru and I am not sure what
to do about it hopefully you guys will get this post since i am doing
directly through the sight. It keeps saying i had some emails that
bounced in my account which was true when i was in the hospital but
dont know what to do about it now.
thanks tim for your note and nice to meet you and your wife. Its
funny when i signed up for this sight i did not realize you all are
from alabama but have so much enjoyed the sight that i would like to
stay. you are all so friendly and kind its wonderfull. Hope to give
you all the right impression of us californians. since i am a true
native of california you have the real thing. was born and raised
here in ventura. well gonna go for now.
on a side note i made it an hour today on the treadmill!!!!! not
really meaning too but am glad i did.
Laura
5/22/02
open rny

I spoke to Nancy a little while ago. She is in ROOM #653 at Medical
Center East. The phone number is 838-3000 if anyone would like to
contact her. When I called she said no one had called or came by to
see her from our group....... She was not sad, but maybe a little
disappointed. So LETS RALLY around her guys. She has had her
daughters with her to help. She had her surgery OPEN on Thursday. She
has been walking the halls and even gave a PEEP show yesterday. She
is really in good spirits and is a lovely lady. She has her lat tp
with her so she is going on line soon.
Love yal all
Mickie
280/ August 2/

[INLINE] Hi everyone!! I hope you are all doing well and feeling great. I am just great here on this end of Alabama. I have a little test I have always done since I was a teenager to tell if I have been losing weight. I simply try to make my fingers meet when I wrap them around my wrist, and today they met. I couldnt believe it! So I thought my not try on another size pair of pants and yep they fit perfectly not snug not tight anywhere. I am ecstatic!! That means I have lost 4 sizes in my jeans already all my tee shirts are getting so loose. What a wonderful way to celebrate my 8th. anniversary on the 24th.
I saw my mom and some other family members today for the first time since surgery and they were quite impressed with Dr. Miles work ( the surgery ) they had serious doubts as to if it really worked as well as they had been told. Now they see for themselves that with a great surgeon and a lot of determination we can achieve all the goals we have set for ourselves. I know I have a long way's to go but these little things sure make it a much happier journey to the thinner side of life.
I pray everyone is doing well and that your nausea and discomfort has cleared up. ( Grandmaw Peg--Connie ) and everyone who has had surgery recently you remain in my prayers. Let us know about Nancy as soon as someone hears something. I have been worried about her. God Bless You All.
Hugs & Love--Pop Tart

Just wanted to say Thanks to all of you for the wonderful posts. Just
now getting to go through them all.
Love in Christ,
Nan

Has anyone heard from Nancy Cambell? I was at the hospital today and
was going to stop in to see her, but she was in SUICU. I did go to
the waiting room to see if any of her family was waiting for the 2pm,
but I couldn't find any family. If anyone knows how Nancy is please
post.
Terri Hyatt

I am so very excited to anounce that.... .I HAVE A DATE with our
handsome Dr. Miles on AUGUST 2 in the surgery room for a NEW LOOK ON
LIFE. My Savior, Jesus Christ will be standing by my side all the
way. I AM JUST ABOUT ALL OVER MYSELF WITH EXCITEMENT. Yeahhhhhh!!!
Yeepeeeeeee.!!!........ My new friends mean so much to me. I want to
let everyone know I truly treasure each & everyone of you. Each of
you have touched my heart in so many ways.
MICKIE
280/ SURGERY AUGUST 2

Hi Barb
I had my surgery with Dr. Sherrer at Shelby. A bit of warning though be prepared to wait on the day of your appointment. Now matter what that office always seems to be running about two hours late. Good Luck and ask any questions you may have.
Love,
Robin Connell
Wanna See My Scar?

Hey all,
I went to Dr. Facundus' office a little while ago to schedule my
surgery, and RIGHT AS I WAS COMING IN, someone called and cancelled
their surgery for next week!!! I AM HAVING MY SURGERY NEXT THURSDAY
(6.27.02)!!!!! Can you believe it???? That's like....NEXT WEEK!!!!
Oh my!!! I need to go read all those posts about what to do right
before surgery!!!! LOL
Thanks,
Cindy L.

I have been following the group for about a month now and never have
posted...I would like to know if anyone was turned down by their
doctor on the first visit? I am proud of each and everyone of you
who have crossed the other side and also to the ones who are
waiting..I was also wondering how many folks had their surgery done
at Shelby Medical Center? I see a lot was done at Medical Center
East...A big thanks to Tim for keeping us all laughing....By the way
my first appointment is August 6th...Any and all information you can
share will greatly be appreciated....Thanks again...Barb

Hi Everyone !!

Well, this is it !! This week has really been a hectic one....Monday was my pre-admission, pre-op and surgery prep class....Rona, you are a superb class teacher...I couldn't believe I paid attention for and hour and a half after a full day of work and fighting hospital routines !! You definitely have the knack !!

Tuesday found me in Dr. Miles office going over the consent form and visiting with Debra about the wonderful Fleets laxitive !! Oh, how fun !!!!!

Wednesday found me taking that stuff to clean out my bowels...."Clean" is not exactly what I'd call it, unless you want to compare it to "spring cleaning"...lol....my stomach is still rolling....

I have to be at the hospital at 5:30am, so I guess Im gonna be on my way to the other side first thing in the morning....:)....I can already feel the prayers and well wishes....And thank you all !!....

I'll see you on the other side....

Nancy 6/20/02

I just thought I would let everyone know what is going on with me. I
don't post very often. I'm not real talkative, but I do read the
posts everyday. This is a group full of wonderful people. Anyway,
my first appointment with Dr. Miles was on May 10th. I called this
morning and they sent my letter to insurance this past Monday. My
appointments with Dr. Thomas and Dr. Sparks are June 26th. So,
please keep me in your prayers.
Love,
Shelly

As I try to plan a vacation for Joy, Matt, Cait and I, I dug up some
interesting facts about Alabama Rivers that I thought y'all might be
interested to know. I'm trying to plan a pontoon boat (no, she hasn't
let me buy one yet, but my fingers are crossed) trip via the
Intercoastal Waterway System from Mobile Bay up to North Carolina. And
I am also interested in trying to do some "trips" up and down some of
Alabama's longer rivers. I welcome any suggestions or comment by
private email to" timsuggs@...
Tim.
Alabama Rivers Alliance
River Facts
*
Alabama ranks 7th in the United States for its number of stream
miles. Alabama has 77,242 miles of river and stream channels
*
Alabama has 3,627,600 acres of wetland and 563,000 acres of
ponds, lakes, and reservoirs.
*