Weight loss

Hello all -
My husband and I came to the support group meeting for the first time two
weekends ago...I was impressed with the group and the level of caring that was
shown.
I have been doing research about WLS since January....I am pretty sure this is
the way to go - I have been struggling with my weight for most of my adult life
and nothing is working to lose it. I am ready to get my health back. I have
fibromyalgia, pre-diabetes, sleep apnea, plus back and feet problems that would
be helped by losing all this excess weight.
Big question: having babies. I know you should wait 2 years or so before
becoming pregnant. That is fine - we have only been married a little over a
year, and feel that by then we will be ready to have a family. Has anyone in
this group had a baby after their surgery. If so, I would love to talk to you
about it.
thank you and God bless,
Heather

I was reading the WLS community on LiveJournal today and someone
posted this below:

I'm home from my revision. I'm tired and sore. Thank goodness for
lortab.
Dr. Pennington and his associates at Monclair "fixed" me... knock on
wood. I'm actually getting food to stay down. I'm on full liquids and
doing fine. I hadn't eaten anything in forever it seemed like because
it got where even water wouldn't stay down. I had a blockage and the
connection of my tummy to my small intestines was TOTALLY shut... not
just a stricture... but CLOSED SHUT. Thank goodness they were able to
go in there LAP in the same places at my WLS and not have to open me
up. The first thing I remember after coming to after surgery was
asking... "Was it lap or open" They told me lap and I said thank
goodness and went back to sleep.
I'm hoping to make it to the Monday night meeting if I feel up to the
ride and can talk someone (mom or granny) into bringing me... if not,
I'll see yall next month.
I gained 16 lbs while in the hospital due to all the IVs and
nutrients they gave me... the first day home I dropped 9 lbs from all
the running to the bathroom... lol. I didn't mind the weight gain
tho... I lost 14#s in the week and 1/2 that I kept nothing down...
and I know it will go down again soon.
Talk to yall later!
Lori

Hi Rita,

I would encourage you to go to a support group meeting as soon as your schedule allows. I know there is a requirement for going to one before surgery, but once you go to one, you'll most likely want to go to more. It truly offers support, as well as a ton of encouragement. This semester, I have a weekend class and a Monday night class, so it will be hard for me to get to meetings, too.

I'm studying psychology and social work at UAB. It's hard to plan for this surgery as well as go to school and work, but it's worth it. I'm shooting for a surgery date around Christmas break, but who knows if that's a realistic goal?

I have a question for everyone: what does the sleep study involve? My appointment is September 3 at 1pm. Am I spending the night? Why do I have to get there so early? Is it like sleeping in a hospital room? What if I can't sleep in a strange place? I'd appreciate any input.

Thanks,

Brandi

Hey Guys,
This next week is going to be a tough one for my family. My dad is having a BIG back surgery on Tuesday. He had 5 heart bypasses 9 years ago and his cardiologist is concerned for him to have this surgery because his heart doesn't tolerate anesthesia well. But, my dad said that the back pain he's having makes his quality of life almost zero so he's going to have the surgery. I'm such a Daddy's girl that it's really scary for me. He's 81 but I'm not ready to let him go yet. We're all working at keeping a really positive attitude.
As if that's not enough - my mom's best friend died yesterday. They'd been friends for over 50 years. She can't go to the funeral because it's at the same time as Daddy's surgery. So, she's awfully blue.
AND as if that's not enough - my dad's first cousin that he's very close to is in the hospital in Jasper with pneumonia. Well, they did alot of testing on him and have diagnosed him with acute lukemia and don't know if he will even live to come home from the hospital. I told Daddy I'd drive him to Jasper today to see Leon, his cousin, but he said he's in too much pain to make the drive so now he's terribly depressed about that too.
Need more? Our 18 year old son Sterling came bursting into our house last night and told us three of his friends were killed in a car accident. These were 18 and 19 year old boys that both of our kids have known for years. They weren't their best friends they saw them regularly and are taking it hard.
Please pray for my family. I sincerely believe that God never gives us more than we can bear but this is so hard. I appreciate all of you for being such wonderful friends.
Love,
Rona
Your Bari-Godmother

My sister's surgery is monday. Please keep her and Dr Dewitt in your prayers.

Thanks to all of you great people!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hello everyone! I am so excited about having this done! Well I have
an appointment for the sleep study. It's in September. Ladies and
Gents, I will soon be out of this horrible body!

Hello all. I had syrgery on 8/18/05 by Dr Schmidt at MCE. I am
doing very well except for BAD GAS pains and pressure. Any
suggestions for relief?
Thanks in advance

Well, today is one month since surgery with Dr. Schmitt.

I'm down 25 lbs.

Hello,My name is Christy. I am 31 and very new at all of this. I have
been doing research on wls for about a year now and I am finally
ready to go on with the next step and have my meetings and get my
appointment with the Dr and get this thing started. I am very excited
to begin a new life and to be given a chance to live a normal life
hopefuly without a whole lot of pain for the rest of my life.
I am wanting any and all info that anyone has to share with me that
will help me in makeing the decisions I am about to make....Thanks
for helping me... Christy ~l~

Hi,
I know some of you did not get the amount of protein that you requested at the last meeting as there was a delay in the shipment. If you will be needing any of the Extreme Smoothies, NECTAR, or Bars, please let us know ASAP.
The Smoothies are in Chocolate, Strawberry, Vanilla and also now we have a Banana Cream Smoothie that has had good reviews in the group. The NECTAR comes in Kiwi Strawberry, Apple, Cherry and Caribbean Cooler (The Caribbean Cooler is currently out of stock, sorry)
Bars are Detour (kinda like a snickers), U-turn (kinda like a Milky Way) and One-way (Peanut Butter / Chocolate)
Call us at 205-663-2190 or e-mail us at dtpgoose@... if you need to order Full cases of 24 or 12 cans or Tubs of the NECTAR. Bars come 12 to a box.
We will have a individual cans on hand if you just need 1 or 2 to try however if you need a case or more please let us know to insure we will have it.....
Thanks.. See ya Monday
Wes and Lisa

Hi all,
I am on the count down now - one week from today (Thursday, Aug 28) I
am going for surgery! This group is awesome, Blue Cross Blue Shield
is awesome, my wonderful Dr. Schmitt is awesome, and my new friend
JoJo (who always puts a smile on my face) is awesome. This truly is
an incredible journey. Next time I see you all I will be a loser
too!!!
Love you all !
Selina

Hi Rita,

I'm pretty new to all of this, too. I've been to a support group meeting (and planning on many more!), and I've had my first visit with Dr. Miles. I'm 21 and go to school in Birmingham. It's nice to talk to someone who is about my age and about at the same stage in the process as I am. Welcome to the group!

-- Brandi

Hello Groupies,

Well, I have lost 89 lbs since Feb of this year. I have gotten alot of compliments, as far as wow, you look great, are you MICHELLE? LIke your hair cut etc etc. THen what blew me away is.. "You have gotten shorter" Shorter?? Hey Do u get shorter?? OH My Gosh.. Bec I ran into my step sister she was taller. I cudn't believe it. I did get shorter.. Some one help me on this lol..

Michelle

The 6MAC meeting this past Saturday at noon was great! The speaker,
Sonia, a dietitian(sic), was entertaining as well as informative.
For long term good health and dietary success, we all have to
monitor our intake and exercise. The fellowship of other post-ops
was uplifting. The lunch was delicious. We talked and laughed and
exchanged information that only other post-ops can know. If you are
six months or more out from your surgery and did not attend, you
missed a great opportunity to share and belong. Also, part of the
price of attendance went to support our regular FACES group. So we
helped ourselves and those coming after us in this journey. I hope
you all make plans to attend the next meeting. To everyone who
attended,ya'll look great! I think that Melissa and Twila are
getting younger looking every month. Rona, you sure do good work.
Thank you.
Brenda

Hey everyone, If any of you know anyone who wants or need a CPAP Machine, I have one for sale. I only used it for about 1 month. It is in GREAT condition. It is a RESMED CPAP S6 Lightweight. I have a carrying case and everything that you will need except I would buy another mask, just for sanitary purposes. If anyone is interested in it please E-mail me personally at Melbain98@... and I will be glad to give all the information you need.
Thanks,
Melissa

Hi Folks,
This is a letter that I got from Lori Weaver's mom (lorilori2u). Please
remember her in your prayers and stop by for a visit if possible.
Love,
Rona
Your Bari-Godmother
Rona, this is Lori Weaver's mom writing. Lori is in the hospital at Montclair.
Her room # is 513. Her phone # is 592-1513. Lori has total blockage where her
stomach joins her intestines. They are planning surgery for Tuesday if
possible. She will have a team of 4 doctors working on her. They said it was a
high possibility that she would have to have an incision up and down. In the
mean time she is on constant IV's. Keep her in your prayers. Lori's mom,
Sherry

Hey guys! Most of you already know this from the meeting on Saturday,
but I had to share. Well if you heard a scream on Saturday morning
around 730 it was ME! I got on the scales and it said ..........
299.5!!! WOOHOO. I honestly can not remember ever weighing this
amount. I know they weighed me annually when I was a kid but I always
closed my eyes. In my adult life it has always been greater than 325
(even when I took diet drugs.) When I started my WLS journey my first
goals that I set for myself were: On my 25th Birthday (Sept 14) which
is approx. 6 months post op, I wanted to 1- weigh less than 300 lbs
and 2- have lost 100 lbs. I started out at 392 so I have reached one
of those goals and I am pulling the other one right behind me.
My other WOOHOO for this week is that I went from a 32 pants to a 24
pants since I had surgery. Man, what a change!
Thanks guys for letting me share this with you. Have a good week!
Amanda
03/19/03 Dr. Schmitt
-92.5 lbs and -72.25 inches!!!

We would like to remind you of this upcoming event.
Support Group Meeting
Date: Monday, August 25, 2003
Time: 6:00PM CDT (GMT-05:00)
This is the regular weeknight meeting at MCE. Doors open at
5:30, meeting starts at 6pm.

Hello everyone, My name is Yolanda. I am new to this group and would
love feedback from all. The people who have had the surgery and the
ones that are waiting for surgery. Please send me an email at my

Dear Rona,
What time will the meeting begin and where will it be held?
Brenda

Hello all,
I have my first appointment on Sept. 10th. I can't wait. I have been researching WLS for a good while now. And I really had a hard time making up my mind that I wanted to go through with it. (Denial I guess) But now that I have made up my mind I am ready to do it NOW.... Can anyone tell me what kind of time frame I am looking at from my first visit to a surgery date? I understand that the insurance approval can take time, but how about the other appointment scheduling. Do they seem to get you in quickly. Or do I just need to go ahead and Chill out.....
Any info would be great. I hope to get the the next support group meeting....

Thanks
Kim

Hey guys. A friend of mine invited me to a website that is like an
online journal. You can record whatever you want to, make the journal
public or private and join communities. They do have a WLS community.
I have only been a member for a little over a week now but I have
honestly enjoyed this site. For those of you who are interested the
site is www.livejournal.com.
If you are interested in joining, please let me know (email me
privatly at mandiks@...) and I can send you an invite code. I
only have a limited amount of these but I will be more than happy to
share these with you guys.
Happy Losing and see you all on Saturday!
Amanda

Well well everyone I finally got a surgery date. It is August 27th with the wonderful Dr. Schmitt. Been a long road walking to get to this point. And as scared as I am....I'M READY!!!!!!! (JO JO)
Wolfie
Pre-Op
Leeds, Alabama
Surgery Date-August 27th
Dr. Lee A. Schmitt

Rona-
I was reading on another site that some doctors suggest their
patients take two multivitamins a day. The reason behind this is
because of our malabsorption if a "normal adult" should take one, we
should take two. Have you heard this? It does kind of make sense- but
I didn't know what your thoughts were on this.
Thanks-
Amanda

Dear Rona,
Is it too late to sign up for this first meeting? If not, please
sign me up and let me know.
Thanks,
Brenda

Did I mention we have a date?!?!?!?!?!?!?!? [INLINE] My sister's surgery is August the 25th at Carraway with Dr Dewitt. Mine is Sept 5th at 9:30 at Baptist Montclair. [INLINE] Am I happy or what? My sister is actually pre-registering today.

i AM NEW TO THIS GROUP AND i WILL HAVE MY FIRST VISIT NEXT MONTH.
wHAT SHOULD i ANTICIPATE ON THIS 1ST VISIT? Please email me, anyone.

I finally got my surgery date It is for Sept 12th with Dr Miles. I am
trying to lose my 25lbs that he ask me to lose before surgery. I
really did not expect to get a date that would be so soon, so I had
not been trying to hard. I am not frantic trying to get it off. I
just got my date last Thurs. If anyone has any suggestions they will
be greatly appreciated. I have been drinking Slim Fast for breakfast
and eating a Salad or Tuna at lunch and then no supper or maybe a
sandwich wheat bread of course with roasted turkey and instead of
chips I have been having carrot sticks. I go on Aug 25th for a pre-op
visit does anyone know if I have not got it all off by then will he
make me post-pone my surgery or will he give me until surgery date to
get it off. I am a little concerned but it is all my fault I have
known since May 20th that I have to lose the weight before surgery. I
just thought that with my track record that if I lost it to early
that I would put it back on before surgery. If anyone knows a good
plan I am willing to try anything. Please keep me in
your prayers.
Thanks,
Michelle Garrison

For patients of Dr. Schmitt:
My first visit with Dr. Schmitt is coming up in a few
weeks and I'm so excited. I want to be sure I have
everything together when I go. How far back will Dr.
Schmitt need my medical records from my primary care
physician? Will I need to have a letter of
recommendation from my PCP?
Thanks for any help anyone can give!

Hey everyone, I have a friend having surgery Thursday at MCE with Dr. Miles. I am not going to be able to get off work and be there. If there are any of you that have time and are to where you can, please stop by and check on her for me. Her name is Teresa Covey. I am not sure what time her surgery is, she won't know till Wed. night. Her husband will be with her and his name is Joe, her parent will also probably be there also. I would really appreciate it. I hate living so far away from the hospital. I would love to be able to visit all of our friends when they are starting their journey. OK I had better get in bed. Talk to you all later, hope to see you at the Sat. meeting.
Melissa

Thanks to all of you who said a prayer for Wade. He is home after 3
days in the hospital. He is feeling better and hopes to be 100%
soon. We never did find out why his intestines didn't want to wake
up after surgery 9 days ago. It's weird but they're finally starting
to gurgle a bit so we're HAPPY!
Thanks again everyone!
Love,
Rona
Your Bari-Godmother

Hello!
If you know you will need one or more full cases of the Extreme Smoothie Protein drinks in Chocolate, Vanilla, or Strawberry, please let Lisa or myself know via e-mail at dtpgoose@... or by phone at 205-663-2190.
Each 11 oz. can contains 35 grams of protein.
We have the NECTAR protein powder, it comes in Cherry, Apple and Caribbean Cooler, all come in 36 serving tubs. Single serving samples of these 3 are also available at the meeting for $1.00 each.
Protein bars are also available and we have Detour, One-way, and U-turn. Can be purchased in singles or by the dozen at a discount.
By you pre-ordering we can be sure that we have what you need on hand, other than the pre-order reservations, it is on a first come first served basis. Please let us know a.s.a.p. what to reserve for you.
Thanks a bunch...
Wes and Lisa

Hello

I was wanting to find out where the 6mac meeting will be held? I know it is at MCE but where? Thank you for your help

Toya C Birmingham al

398/281/still going

Hi Folks!
I'm very excited to remind you that our first 6MAC meeting in quite a
while is this Saturday at noon.
We have changed the format and believe it is going to be very
beneficial to patients who are 6 months or longer post op.
The meeting this Saturday will include a catered lunch, a lecture by
Sonya Grisham, RD, LD Chief Clinical Dietician with Morrison's
Hospital Division, program materials and a question and answer
session.
Cost for this luncheon/meeting is $20.00
I hope you will find this is a reasonable price for what you are
getting. Each month we will have a different speaker that will
include the psychologist, plastic surgeons and more. The meeting is
geared toward assisting weight loss surgery patients in coping with
the specific issues of long term post ops.
If you would like to register for this Saturday's meeting you must
email me TODAY so I can place the appropriate order with the caterer.
I hope you will consider attending on a regular basis. It's sure to
be helpful to those of us who are several months or years post op.
I'm really looking forward to attending myself.
I'll look forward to hearing from you!
Love,
Rona
Your Bari-Godmother

Hi Friends,
Some of you may know that Wade had hernia surgery on Monday. The procedure went off without a hitch. However, he had the hiccups after surgery and after 45 minutes of continuous hiccups they had to put an NG tube down his nose to cure them. This made him really sore. (Poor guy!) So, we've been rockin' and rollin' along since Monday and he's been feeling fair but not bouncing back like we thought he would.
So.............Dr. Miles called and said he wants to admit him. Seems his gut isn't waking up as fast as it should. I'm not sure what they do to correct this but he's going to be admitted in an hour or so and they'll do a CT Scan and some lab work, etc. Then I'm sure we'll figure out what's wrong and get him on the road to being well.
Ya'll please say a prayer for him if you think about it. I'm so happy that Dr. Miles is taking care of him - I know he's in good hands.
Love ya,
Rona
Your Bari-Godmother

We would like to remind you of this upcoming event.
Support Group Meeting
Date: Saturday, August 16, 2003
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.

Hi everyone -
I GOT MY SURGERY DATE! AUGUST 28!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I don't know whether to dance or puke!!! I may dance, then puke!!!
Or I may puke first!!! OMG!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Happy, happy, Selina

Hi everyone. Well it is 2 weeks post-op and I've lost 19 lbs. Did great after surgery and up to now. My only problem is that I still get tired quickly if I'm up walking around or doing anything ( I only do lite duty) I remember people at support meeting talking about having so much energy. When does that come back? Other that energy level, I'm doing GREAT.

Okay I will confess I am horrible about taking my multi-vitamin
everyday. The Flintstones Complete was starting to make me gag. I
don't know if it was too sweet for me or what but some mornings I
just couldn't do it.
Well I discovered a new chewable that actually has MORE than
Flintstones Complete. It is by Centrum. It is orange flavored- kinda
tastes like a creamcicle (spelling?). I have been taking them since
Sunday and I haven't complained (yet). I don't remember what all it
has more of- the bottles are at home, but nothing in the Centrum was
less than what was in the Flintstones. So if you also dislike the
Flintstones or would like a change occasionally, give these a try.
Oh- the cost @ Target was like $1.00 more than the Flintstones.
Amanda

Hi guys
I just got a call from Blue Cross Blue Shield and I GOT

There are actually two magazines out currently. One is called WLS
Lifestyles and you can find it @ www.wlslifestyles.com. Rona is on
the editorial staff of this one. I believe it was $25.00/year
subscription.
The other one is actually put out by ObesityHelp.com. You can find it
online @ www.obesityhelp.com/morbidobesity/mag2.php. I have not had a
chance to look at this one yet as I just received it Thursday, but
once I read it I will let you guys know. I believe it was also
$25.00/year for the subscription.
I think both of these are quarterly magazines and will come out at
the same time which bothers me because I will get lots to read one
month and be informationless for two months. But oh well- atleast we
finally have TWO of OUR OWN magazines.
Hope some of you find this information helpful!
Amanda

dear faces friends my computer has died on me so until i get another
one i'll be out of reach i'll be thinking of you all and hope to make
the next sat. meeting.
love you all,
jennifer mitchell
jan 15 2003
-100 pounds TODAY THANK YOU GOD!

Mickey Ferguson from Fox 6 would be perfect...he is riot...

I went to see Dr. Schmitt today to have the drain tube and staples taken out. Piece of cake.

The great news is that since 7-25, I had lost 14 lbs.

Did any of you subscribe to this magazine? Well I did and I received
it in the mail the first of this week. Do you know how amazing it is
to know that OUR Bari-Godmother is on the editorial staff of a
magazine of this size and importance??? It should make us all feel
proud to know we have the best of the best that guides us on our
journey. Many thanks again to Rona for all she does for us. The
article she wrote was wonderful and very helpful. (It was about "Are
We Leaving the Spouse Out") which was a topic and presentation at a
Saturday meeting a few months back. For anyone who missed the
presentation, I highly suggest reading this magazine article.
Amanda
03/19/03 Dr. Schmitt
-85 lbs and -60 inches

That's sort of what happens with me after about four hours (except the sinuses
closing up...it keeps mine open). I start to feel like it is suffocating me.
Keep at it. I could be that you just need more time to adapt to it. What type
of mask are you using? I switched over to the nose pillows and it helped
somewhat. Communicate with your dr about what goes on and what your thoughts
and feeling are about everything. Maybe your sinuses need some time to adapt to
the airflow. I am repeating my sleep test next week to see if we need to lower
my CPAP (so I won't feel so suffocated). I personally feel that mine is set too
high, but we'll have to see what the test says. Keep us posted on your progess.
Sandi
============================================================
it works okay for about 4 hours, then my sinuses close up
and I feel like I'm smothering. I use the Flonase which helps, but
the final four (or so) hours are like an ordeal. Any suggestions?
============================================================

i was looking through the pics on the website...chris K is adorable!
thats all, had to throw it out there.

I completed my sleep study yesterday, and I too have sleep apnea.
Not really surprised since my significant other has complained about
my snoring for years. Question--now after 2 nights with the CPAP machine I have
a problem--it works okay for about 4 hours, then my sinuses close up
and I feel like I'm smothering. I use the Flonase which helps, but
the final four (or so) hours are like an ordeal. Any suggestions?
I'm using warmed humidified air, too.
cmi517

Hi,
This is the first time I have been on this site and I love it. I am
waiting on my surgery date. I got my approval on 7/2/03 and finally
found out this past Thurs that my primary care doctor has not faxed
all my records to Dr Miles and on top of all that they were closed
for Vacation Thurs and Fri. So tomorrow I will be on the phone trying
to get them to fax my paperwork. I was a little discouraged but I
know that it will all come in HIS time. I went to my first Support
Group on July 19 and I loved it. I live about an hour away so it is
difficult to get there often but I plan on making a effort to go more
often now that I know how great it is. Any advice for a pre-op person
is much appreciated.
Thanks,
Michelle Garrison
Arab,Al
Dr Miles
Waiting for Surgery Date

The hair loss has started, I'm a little over 90 days out from
surgery. When does it stop and can I do anything to slow the amount
of hair loss??? Help......

i have alot of clothes ranging from 22 down to 18. if anyone needs
them please email me. they are yours.
thanks!

I had surgery this past Friday, the 25th with Dr. Schmitt. I've done great. Have not had even one of the "gas" pains in my body everyone talked about. I give that credit to the medical team and God because I went in asking for a fast and easy recovery.

I'm home and can't wait til next meeting.

OH YEAH I FORGOT HOW WE GO ABOUT GETTING OUT TICKET TO SEE THE FASHION SHOW? LET ME KNOW SOMEBODY OK? WHO DO WE BUY IT FROM? WOLFIE

Hey guys. I learned about a great awareness Walk from another WLS
site. I am sure it is too late for us to try and have one in
Birmingham, but maybe next year we can try to join the country in
teaching people about morbid obesity.
Below is a link to explain what I am talking about. Depending on you,
your schedule and your willingness to travel, there are over 40
cities already signed up including: Atlanta, GA, Chattanooga, TN and
Nashville, TN.
Just wanted to share!
http://walkfromobesity.com
Amanda :o)
03/19/03 Dr. Schmitt
-85 lbs and -60 inches

Hi there,
If you need to pre-order protein for Monday Nights meeting please let us know via e-mail or phone.
We have the Extreme Smoothie Ready to Drink in Chocolate, Vanilla, and Strawberry and we also have the Designer Whey Blast Drinks in Orange, Grape, Kiwi Strawberry, Absberry Ice, and Tropicurl Breeze (ready to drink) and the Nectar Powders in Caribbean Cooler, Very Berry Cherry and Apple.
We also have the Detour, One-Way, and U-Turn Bars.
You can e-mail us at dtpgoose@... or call at 205-663-2190.
Thanks,
Wes and Lisa

Well group I had my sleep study on the 22nd and found that I do have sleep apnea. I am not a happy camper! So now two weeks of monitored sleep, feels like I brought a peeping tom home with me, lol. Hopefully I won't have to be on this forever. The good thing, if there is a good thing, is they when I told the nurse, Gloria, who by the way was exceptional, that I was very claustrophobic, she brought a special mask in that worked out great. I still don't relish the thought of wearing a mask at all but I know I have to. Hopefully it won't be long before I can get a surgery date. WOLFIE/JOJO

Hi Friends,
We're really gearing up for the 2nd Annual Come As You Were / Go As
You Are Fashion Show. It's going to be an awesome show! It's
November 8th at 5:00 p.m at Cathedral of the Cross on Center Point
Parkway.
The surgical weight loss program at UAB is also participating in the
show this year so it's going to be a wonderful event to bring many
WLS patients and their families and friends together.
We are also inviting all local WLS surgeons and their support groups,
the board of directors of Blue Cross and Blue Shield, the board of
directors of Medical Center East and U.A.B. and many other local
dignitaries to attend. We are also hoping for some good media
coverage.
FYI Both Auburn and Alabama are playing Mississippi teams that
weekend and I believe both are "away" games. So, football is no
excuse to keep you from attending.
If you want to be a supermodel you need to email me with your name,
address and phone number A.S.A.P. as spaces are filling up fast and
we have a limit on how many people can participate.
The requirements are:
You must be a minimum of 6 months post op
Attire is Sunday best - semi formal or formal
No denim or casual clothing
You must attend at least one of two planning meetings
You must attend rehearsal
See? It's easy! So please email me to sign up. Melissa Bain - I
already signed you up so you don't even have to email me - I won't
take "no" for an answer! We really want to put our best foot forward
and take the time to SHINE!
A reception follows thanks to Dr. Ronald Clements, Dr. Les Miles and
Dr. Lee Schmitt. It's going to be a wonderful affair.
Also, if anyone is to new at being a post op or can't participate as
a supermodel for whatever reason - please consider helping us out by being a
FASHION SHOW FLUNKY.
These folks will take tickets, clean up, etc. and your help will be greatly
appreciated.
I'll look forward to hearing from you.
Love,
Rona
Your Bari-Godmother

were would this yard sale be held at

Hello everyone
I recently attended a seminar on July 15th 2003.
I want to have this surgery, but I have a few reservations about it.
Can anyone give me some good sounding advice. My biggest fear is not
waking up. I would also like to know ---is it true when you have an
excessive amount of weight to lose--your skin will be flabby after
the weight lost???
Yours truly
Yolanda

Hi Rosie,

You'll recognize me -- I haven't lost near the weight many people have at this point. I'm only about 26 lbs down in a month. So there's not much difference in my looks. It's you I won't recognize. Cannot wait to see you next Monday. Sounds like you are doing better than GREAT!!! I'm so happy for you.

I'm just plugging away, losing slowly, but at least I'm LOSING! And I feel so much better, can do so much more, or at least do it more easily. My loss may be slower, but I don't regret anything at all! To feel as well as I do -- that was my ultimate goal. That and making permanent lifestyle changes. I've accomplished both!!

See you next Monday,

Sherry

soprice@...

Hi All,
I'm happy to see that activity here has picked up. This is a great
group and I hate when folks don't take advantage of it.
I had a thought.....(I know, some of you are rolling your eyes and
thinking "what now???") This could be a fundraiser for F.A.C.E.S.
and a fundraiser for you too.
Let's have a PLUS SIZE YARD SALE. F.A.C.E.S. will arrange for the
location and tables and you guys can sell the clothes you've
undergrown. The cost to sell in the yard sale will be $10.00 for
your space and 10% of your total sales. Why let the Thrift Stores
make the money off your plus size clothes when you could be the one
making it?
Give me some feedback. If you like the idea we may shoot for having
a yard sale in September. That would give everyone time to get their
stuff together!
Love and Hugs,
Rona
Your Bari-godmother

My surgery is this Friday, July 25th, and I'm excited as well as
nervous (nervous stomach, diarrhea). Is that normal? I just hope
and pray I do okay. I was at the Nutrition class yesterday. I was
reading the material last night and know I need to get some things to
be ready when I come home. I've got the sugar free popsicles, but
any help from post-op members would be greatly appreciated.
Especially help with brands of sugar free applesauce, and any other
tips would be extremely helpful. I'm going to the store tomorrow and
would like to get all of this taken care of.
Any tips on the couple of days before surgery? Does anyone have any
helpful hints that would help me settle down? Anything to do prior
to my day-before-prep day?
Thank you so much!!!!!!!!
Alice

I just wanted to thank everyone for all the advice you gave me. it is hard to know that someone i called friend for four years could just through our friendship away. but there is nothing i can do but wait and see what will happen. again thank you

Toya C

I have been in the closet (so to speak) researching WLS and have so
many questions. I see all the different types of surgeries and it
boggles the mind. How do you know which one is best or does the dr.
choose based on which he feels is best for you (sounds most
logical). I think I am finally ready to start the actual process
and my dr was the one that actually suggested it (Not knowing I was
already thinking in that direction). I have several contribution
factors - 40 BMI, foot/ankle pain, arch/heel problems, borderline
diabetic, asthma, apnea (having narcolepsy MSLT next week which we
already know I have, but need the test to make it official for
insurance). I am sooooo tired of living like this (or rather NOT
living like this). My primary concern is that I also have
ulcerative colitis and am really afraid that this would exclude me
from being a candidate for WLS. I am able to keep it in remission a
majority of the time by taking prescribed medications and only have
an occassional flare-up (already very familiar with dumping...from
what I have read the same food items cause mine as what I have seen
described by people I have talked to after WLS).
Another issue is family/peer support, but I am at the point with
that where I have decided that if they have an issue, its gonna be
their problem not mine. Some see it as an easy way out but if you
ask me, it's a bit drastic to be calling it an "easy" way out. I
have tried every diet plan on the market, diet pills, pulmonary dr
said not to start exercise plan until we get apnea/narcolepsy and
asthma issues under control. I could really use a local support
group or perhaps a sponser to guide me thru the process and help
with the millions of questions running thru my mind. I don't think
my insurance will be a prob since three people at work have been
approved with fewer co-morbids (BCBS-AL).
Any ideas? Sandi

We would like to remind you of this upcoming event.
Support Group Meeting
Date: Monday, July 28, 2003
Time: 6:00PM CDT (GMT-05:00)
This is the regular weeknight meeting at MCE. Doors open at
5:30, meeting starts at 6pm.

Found on another list
1. "I have a date" doesn't mean you are going out.
2. "I'm a loser" is a good thing.
3. "Welcome to the other side" does not mean you have died.
4. New clothes fall off the next week.
5. You are excited about "hand me downs"
6. YOU have a NEW family!
7. Hitting the "Century Mark" is a good thing!
8. You love the taste of Chewable Centrum Rugrats Vitamins or biting
the head off of Wilma.
9. People start calling you tiny, and it's a good thing.
10. When the word lap has nothing to do with a strip club!!
11. When "No, I couldn't eat another bite" really has a deeper
meaning!
12. When they look at you resentfully in the plus size store because
you really don't belong there anymore!
13. When you have to prove you are you on your license!
14. When you start hogging the camera space and loving the pictures!
15. You want to hug everyone who is fat and give them your surgeon's
card.
16. You are never without a bottle of water.
17. When people look surprised when they see how little you eat.
18. When you know all too well the definition of "dumping".
19. When you can see your feet for the first time in years!!
20. When you order a doggy bag the same time you order your meal.
21. When you count protein grams instead of calories.
22. You say "Oh, I won't have any of that, I'm full" and really mean
it.
24. Having your husband say, "Honey, I can put my arm (not arms) all
the way around you!!"
25. When you go to the mall and you park in the first open space
instead of circling for 20 minutes for a spot by the door.
26. You go out on a date and are really truly a "Cheap date" and not
in the way that some think.....
27. When one drink makes you a flipping floozy...
28. When you run you don't hear a flapping noise.....oh wait you
still do.....but at least you are running!
29. When your husband takes your breath away in a moment of
passion...but not because he is squishing your tummy!
30. You feel like you have over eaten after eating half a cup of
something.
31. Vitamins and calcium etc. feel like a meal.
32. When the chef comes out from the kitchen and asks you "what's the
matter, don't you like the meal?"
33. You've just lost 100 pounds, and someone who hasn't seen you in a
while says .... "Gee, did you change your hairstyle?"
34. When you bend over and see daylight through your thighs.
35. You can cross your legs.
36. When you ask for a sample in the deli section of a grocery store
and that's your meal.
37. When you say, "I just got these clothes last week and they're
already too big!"
38. Trying to cash a check and the teller says, "That's not you!"
39. When the pizza delivery driver forgets your first name.
40. Your old boyfriends (girlfriends) don't recognize you.

Okay where was everyone yesterday?
Rosie- you have been hiding since surgery. I won't recognize you.
Sherrie- Slimming down and don't want to hang out with us anymore?
JUST KIDDING!
Melissa- I of course missed you. You are my inspiration!!!
Connie & Glen- haven't seen you guys all summer! I won't recognize
you guys either!
The other Connie- missed you too!
I am sure I left someone off- don't shoot me. I just don't always
remember names real well.
I missed you all, just hope everything is okay with you and your
family. Just stay in touch!!
Amanda
03/19/03 Dr. Schmitt
-85 lbs and -60 inches.

Hi Sherrie, I would love to correspond with you. Can you give me your
e-mail address. Do you have a surgery date yet?
Jenny

A friend told me of a "things to be sure to take to the hosp. when
having surgery" list, but I can't find it anywhere. Can anyone help
me & e-mail it to lele22@... ?? I would be greatly
appreciative! Thanks. Lisa (RNY Lap 8-21-03)

Hello everyone, i just had one question that hopefully i can get some advice on. I have had a best freind for over four years. we have been through everything together. There has never been anything that we could not talk about or handle together. However,since i have recently lost 105lbs she has been increasingly acting distant toward me. She has told me that she has things in her life that she has to deal with and that she does not have time to be a friend to me. This really throghs me for a loop. i just can not understand why she would do this. i am tring to understand what she is saying but i just cant right now. my life is going so well right now. all except for this. i really do not want to loss my friend. please help! any advice will he very appreciated.

thank you

Toya C.

I went to see Dr Eich this morning & I am scheduled for my Panni (TT)
on October 1. I also want to lose another 20 lbs before that date so
I have to get on the ball with my protein drinks and stop snacking so
much. It has been a great year with health restored and a weight loss
of 130 lbs. Dr. Miles should be given an award & angel wings. Of
course he is so adorable & a cutie pie. But he is just so humble and
so glad to help us make our lives better & more productive. This
surgery was the best thing that has ever happen to me with the
exception of having my wonderful son 17 years ago. Hopefully the
Panni surgery will put me in size 10's or 8's. Please give me some
feed back from people that have already done this and what should I
expect as far as pain and going back to work.
Mickie
LAP RNY
Aug 2 2002
286/156/135

Another Star Has Gastric Bypass!
TO ALL THE "AMERICAN IDOL FANS!
Randy Jackson (one of the Judges of A.I.) had gastric bypass last week
in California.
We can all look forward to watching Randy next season as he is
shrinking while enjoying the next instalment of A.I.
"American Idol 3"
Take care & happy losing,
"The ChanMan"

This is all new to me. I have made the decision to have weight loss
surgery. My consultation is at the end of August. I sat both of my
parents down to tell them about my decision and ask for their
help...driving me to and from the hospital and feeding my cats while
I'm in the hospital. They did not react very well. They both think it
is a very bad idea...mortality rate too high, etc. They think
I've "gone off the deep end." I could really use some support from
people who also plan to have the surgery and those who already have
had it. I'm very scared about being put to sleep or having one of the
complications mentioned at the meeting I attended at MCE. I have
prayed about this and I really think it's the right thing to do.
That's enough of my story for now. If anyone is interested in being e-
mail buddies, please e-mail me at jdmiller1320@.... Thank you.

In a message dated 7/14/2003 10:34:39 PM Central Standard Time, Rita A Griffin writes:

HI EVERYONE,
DID ANYONE SEE THE ARTICLE IN THE BIRMINGHAM NEWS REGARDING THE INS CO. STARTING TO LOOK CLOSER AT APPROVING DUE TO PREVIOUS SUBMITTERS THAT WERE DECLINED, TO HAVE THEM ONLY GAIN WT ON PURPOSE AND RETURN FOR APPROVAL.
RITA

HAD TO CORRECT MY ERRORS IN SPELLING LOL

thanks to those of you who answered my questions about the sleep
study. See you Saturday????
cmi

Hi! My name is Sandi. I am 39 and am considering WLS and have started initial
discussions with my dr. He feels that it would be approved (and I know my
insurance has covered it for at least three other people under our plan). I was
initially seeing my dr for sleep related problems (apnea/narcolepsy) and he
suggested WLS, which I had already been reading about privately. I was thin
most of my life until around my mid-30's then up, up, up my weight went. It is
affecting so many areas of my life that I won't even list them (besides, I am
sure you are all too familiar with them anyhow). I really just want to have
energy again. I have talked to three people who had very different experiences
with WLS varying from zero problems to life threatening problems. But in the
end, all three say they would do it again in a heartbeat and two say their only
regret is not doing it sooner. But all stress that it was not easy by any
means. Sorry to ramble. Just random thoughts on the subject.
Look forward to meeting everyone.
Sandi

Has the support meeting been changed to Thursday or was that a typo?

We would like to remind you of this upcoming event.
support group
Date: Thursday, July 17, 2003
Time: 3:00PM - 5:00PM CDT (GMT-05:00)

Hi All,
Please let one of us know if you would like to pre-order protein for the meeting on Saturday the 19th... You can reach us via e-mail dtpgoose@... or phone (205) 663-2190 We have the Designer Whey Blast(16oz. bottles), Extreme Smoothies (11 oz. cans)Chocolate, Strawberry and Vanilla, Tubs of Nectar Protein in Cherry, Apple, and Carribean Cooler and Detour, U-Turn, and One-Way bars... Feel free to call or e-mail with any questions you may have. Thanks for taking the time to pre-order, this allows us to have what you need, ready for you when you need it... See ya at the meeting.... Wes and Lisa

I called Blue Cross Today. They received the information from my doctor on July 1st and my surgery was approved Thursday July 10th. I am still in shock. I cried when Mary at BC told me it had been approved. Of course I don't have a surgery date yet, but I am one step closer.

We would like to remind you of this upcoming event.
Support Group Meeting
Date: Saturday, July 19, 2003
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.

I have a couple of questions about the sleep study for those of you
who have already been through it. How well did you sleep that night?
Did you go to work the next day, or did you sleep in? Will I be able
to have a glass of water by the bed all night (I get real thirsty
every night and need a few sips)? Any helpful suggestions that you
could relate? And finally, were there any surprises?
thanks.
the other connie

Hello! I'm a new member to this group and have been approved for
surgery. I'm waiting to be called this week for my surgery date.
I'm excited and scared. Anybody who can help me get through this pre-
surgery "stuff", or anyone who is going through this now as well,
feel free to contact me. I just want my life back. I want to live
again. I was at the last Saturday support meeting and was so excited
for everyone who has already been through the surgery and losing so
much weight. I cried when Rona gave her program.
Well, my name is Alice and I would love to chat with a fellow member
anytime.
Hugs!

Hi all,
Don't have a surgery date yet but should be getting there soon. I am
not scared of the surgery - I have total confidence in Dr. Schmitt
and I know I am in good hands. But man oh man am I scared of "life
after surgery"!! My love for food is what got me in this shape and I
am so scared that I won't be able to pass by all those things I love
to eat. I mean, I failed at every diet I have ever been on so what
makes this different? I am so committed to having this surgery and
to the program, but what makes it different?
I know the support group will help but until July 19, I sure could
use some reassurance!!
Thanks
Selina

My surgery date is July 25th. Everyone in family supports me.
However, my oldest son keeps asking me if I'm sure this is what I
want to do and don't I want to try on my own one more time. I'm
sure. Any suggestions on what to tell him. I know he just loves me
and is concerned for me. We are very close and when he says these
things it really bothers me. But I am ready to be healthier.

hi everyone...just joined the group..My surgery was May 6th....have
only lost about 35 so far....cant seem to find motivation to
excersize...lol...If I can help anyone with any questions, please
feel free to email me.....take care...:)

sorry its been so long since my last post i had my surgery on jan 15
2003 at uab and i've lost 90pounds i've kind of hit the ol platue and
i'll loose a pound then gain 2 loose gain i know i'm not doing my
protein right and been snacking alot and i've just got that old head
hunger again and my moods are really bad i got off my anti
depressents but looks like i'll be back on them soon. LOL! i'm for
sure coming to the next sat meeting and can't wait to see you all
again i haven't been to a meeting since my surgery so i'm really
excited to see if ya'll can tell a difference. my hair is really
coming out badly and i know its due to not enough protein. i've
missed you all so much. God bless u all.
love ya,
jennifer mitchell
dr. gleysteen jan 15, 2003 -90 pounds:( :)

Rona-
Can you confirm the date for the fashion show? I know we 'voted' in
our last meeting for the date to be changed to October, but can you
confirm what day and approx. what time? I have some people who are
interested in coming (but will be coming from out of state) and need
to know so they can make work/travel arrangements.
Thanks again for being our Bari-Godmother and all you do for us!!!
Amanda

OK, I had my surgery at Baptist Montclair on Tuesday. and I really
need some help because I don't know how to judge.
First, in all the printed literature they gave me, sometimes it says
my pouch is 2 oz and sometimes it says 3-4. I can drink about 3-4 oz
an hour. Is that too much? I am still very thirsty, but if I drink
all the time I can't get down protein drinks that don't "quench"
thirst as much. If I drink more than 1 oz in 15 minutes, is that
stretching my pouch? I can't really "feel" it because it is healing
so it feels kinda sore and tight all the time. Sometimes, when I'm
on something like crystal lite, it feels like it is going right
through me. I am VERY afraid of stretching pouch, but at the same
time, also having hard time getting all the liquids in I want because
i have to make myself pace myself.
Number 2....I'm not loosing hardly any weight...only about a lb since
surgery, although I lost about 2 before on a local diet, then the 2
days of liquids before hand. Is this common? What id I don't
loose? Am I eating too much, and if I am how could that possibly be?
Third, I am having several bm's a day....how can I have so many bms
if most everything is truly liquid? Does that mean I'm eating too
much. I was so looking forward to this surgery, and so want to be
complient, and am walking a little, trying to rest, but I'm so
frustrated that it isn't working yet, and I don't know what is wrong
and my dr is on vacation. IF you think you could help me, or want to
chat, PLEASE respond, or write to me, brazeall@..., or chat

I am looking for someone named Mary Ann. I believe that is her name, she
lives in Tuscaloosa and had surgery with Dr. Schmitt on April 21st,
the same day I did with Dr. Miles. We walked the halls together. I
haven't seen you at the support meetings, or maybe I've just missed
you. I'd like to get in touch and chat. If you are a part of this
group and if anyone knows her, let me know. You can send me an email
to mepride@... to let me know specifics on how to get in
touch. Thanks.

Hi

I'm Linda. I've attended the last 2 Monday night support group classes.

I got THE call and my surgery date is July 25th.

Excited but a little anxious. I'm basically a very positive attitude person and

know everything will be fine. Just a big step and a big life change. But I'm ready.

I'm 57 and have been turning into my mother more and more each year. I want to be the kind lady she was but not the unhealthy person she was.

Dr. Schmitt is my Dr. I really enjoy all the great information I get from the e-mails. I print out the ones that have infor I think I might use in the future.

Thanks to all of you.

Well, I'm home. I came home friday afternoon. I'm tired and sore as
to be expected, but glad this is part is done!
I'll talk more later!
Lori
Dr. Groves
July 1,03

I am trying to figure out how to explain my thoughts/feelings. So
work with me... LOL.
The past two-three weeks I have been troubled (for lack of a better
word) about the fact that even though I have lost 74 lbs and feel
better now than I have in forever, people who don't know me or didn't
know me pre-op, have NO IDEA where I have been and the fact that I am
trying to lose weight and become a 'normal' size person. I wonder if
they look at me and say 'Man, that fat girl should try to lose some
weight' or something along those lines. For example, I went to a
water park while in Orlando last week. Although I had no issues
walking around in my conservative one piece bathing suit, I am sure
those little skinny minis were appalled I would even walk out of the
house much less in a water park in a bathing suit. Does this make any
sense to anyone? I am not depressed about this issue, but it does
bother me. Like I am thrilled with the fact I have some new clothes
that fit me (I was walking around in baggy clothes for the last 3
months until something's just looked crazy on me), I feel like I am
on top of the world, but I know others don't view me that way yet as
I am still a large person. I know this and don't deny the fact that I
have PLENTY of weight left to lose (I am 5'10" and still weigh 318),
but it is hard for me on some levels because to others who don't know-
they don't know how I am trying.
Anyway, just curious if anyone else had these thoughts and if this
will pass or what.
Thanks guys for listening-
Amanda :o)

Just wanted to let everyone know I really enjoyed the meeting. It
was very informative. I met some great people and a lot of my
questions were answered. Hope to see you at the next meeting.
Thanks for all your support.

Hello. My name is Karen and I normally don't post but I do read your words of wisdom. I found out at the end of last week that I had finally been approved for WLS. I am now waiting on my doctor's office (Dr. Facundus in Huntsville) to call with a date.

I have been so excited about having this done....I'm so ready for a life change. But, now that it's really hear, I'm a little scared....kind of like "cold feet" before your wedding. Never mind, I should have paid attention to that one but that's another looong story. Anyway, just wanted to share my news. Thank you all so much for enlightening those of us who are searching and considering WLS.

Karen

Surgery TBD [INLINE]

Last night was my first time to go to one of the support group meetings. I have to say I enjoyed it and came away uplifted by everyones success stories. Keep up the good work. I was however heart broken to hear about big Pete dying. For those of you who haven't heard his story check it out at www.bigpete803.com . He was a great success and from what was said wls helped to make the last few years of his life wonderful.

Hey everyone, just joined the group. Scott Pennington is my
surgeon. My insurance BCBS approved my surgery a week ago Friday,
got the letter Tuesday and scheduled wednesday for my surgery next
Tuesday, July 1...that is two days away! It is at 1:00 at BMC. I am
having the RNY. It all happened so fast now that I haven't had a
chance to get to the support group that meets over at BMC Montclair.
I get a little nervous, more so than hysterectomy, of complications,
resurgery, ending up in ICU, or them having to open me up or me,
(gulp) dying. Sunday and Monday I am on the liquid diet, so I had my
farewell 2 donuts tonight, although for the last 6 days I've been
following a locarb diet to shrink my liver. Anyway, I am so looking
forward to making new friends and carving out a new life. The more I
think about surgery, the more I want it primarily for to feel better,
have less pain and better sleep, and the looks part is secondary. I
have about 100 lbs to loose to get to the mid 140's. Any idea how
fast it will come off, especially in the first few months? My
husband lost his job and started a new business, so we are pretty
broke, so I'm trying to figure out how to "buy ahead" when I see
things.
I look forward to making lots of new friends here in the wonderful
Magic City

Hi !!!
Just wanted to say a GREAT big Thank you to - Wes, Lisa, Chan, Felica, Rona, For being there when Sherryl had her WLS on 6-25... She is home doing good.. She said it has meant the world to her that you 5 where there for her... Wes, she said it was a Great surprise when you showed up before her surgery .. You guys mean the world to me!!!!!!!!!!! Wes and Chan have been at MCE everyday to support Terri and Sherryl!!!!! Yall are so sweet and yall really mean alot to me .. Sherryl said her too. I'm really proud to have Friends like yall!!!!!!!!! Support is where its at!!!!!
(Wes thanks for the bacon batteries) :)
Lisa the bacon was good :)
Chad (oops Chan thanks for being there)
Huggs and love to you all,
Kristy

Well, I got a call today and they rescheduled my surgery for TUESDAY
July 1st around 10AM at Marshall Medical Center SOUTH (Boaz)... a day
earlier and at the sister hospital. Dr. Groves didn't want to leave
me there with other doctors doing rotations during the 4th of July
holidays. This way I should come home a day sooner, too. The hospital
information number is 256-593-8310.
Lori

Curves for Women was mentioned in an earlier posting. Can anyone
tell me more about this? I went to their website, but it was rather
vague.
Laurian

Splenda is sucralose. It is my understanding that the manufacturers have taken a regular sugar molecule
and reversed the structure (an isomer in chemical terms) so that it tastes
like sugar, acts like sugar, but the body does not recognize the new
structure as sugar, and most of it passes out of the body unchanged. The FDA
has approved it for use in children, pregnancy, diabetes, etc. There are
many products that now use Splenda in them, including fruit juices. For a
listing of the foods/drinks that contain Splenda, as well as a discussion of
Splenda, FAQs, and even recipes using Splenda, go to the Splenda website
http://www.splenda.com and click on the pages you want to read. For the
products that use Splenda, there is a link, but if you read the first short
paragraph on the new page, you will see a "click here" for a PDF file that
lists ALL the products that use Splenda -- 23 pages of American products,
and 7 more for Canadian products. Hope this helps,
Warm hugs,
Sherry
soprice@...

Hi Selina,
Originally I put in for only 2 weeks off. Then I decided why come back for
the 4th of July week, so I changed it to July 7, which will be almost 3
weeks. I am going in for a couple of hours next Tuesday and Wednesday,
because we have a new group of 4th year pharmacy students starting a
rotation in our Drug Information Center at Samford (which is where I work).
We always have 2 days of mostly orientation to the center and what will be
accomplished during the month. We are short one faculty member (new one
starts mid-July), one person has gone to England for Wimbledon, one is out
for a hysterectomy, and I am out. Leaves only 1 part time faculty and the
director, so I volunteered to come in and do part of the orientation. Do I
feel ready? Yes, physically. Mentally, I haven't had a vacation since before
I started pharmacy school in 1995, so this is the first break I've had.
Pretty sad when you have surgery to get a break from work. ho ho
Bottom line, yes, I think it is doable. Especially if yours is not a
demanding job. Then again, do you sit in a chair all day? This is abdominal
surgery, and sitting for long periods can get uncomfortable, not to mention
is not good for you. So if you can plan to get up and walk around often, and
not sit for long periods, I think you could do it fairly comfortably. I'd
probably want to plan to rest when I got home -- maybe have supper brought
in or have someone else fix it for you.
Good luck. Start finding your protein now, and get some of that on board.
Get your body in optimum condition so you will heal faster. Take it easy
after the surgery except for the walking, so you have time to recuperate.
Don't plan tasks to accomplish while you are off, so you can concentrate on
the healing, juggling the food, drink, protein, and medicines. If you are on
diabetic meds, be prepared to check your sugars often. I have already dropped my
one medication because my sugars are so low now. I even had an episode of
hypoglycemia (too low -- sweats and shaking) on Monday.
You'll do well. Be sure and let us know when you get a date. Hope to meet
you at a support meeting.
Warm hugs,
Sherry
surgery 6/17/03 - Dr. Miles
soprice@...

Hi there,
If you need to pre-order any protein for the Monday evening meeting please call or e-mail us ASAP. We have the Nectar, the Extreme Smoothies, the Designer Whey Blast and the Detour and U-turn Bars.
Thanks
Wes
205-663-2190

OK... after hunting and hunting for sugar free sno cone syrup at
walmart after I found ONE about 2 weeks ago and getting tired of
hunting on the internet only to find expensive bottles and then the
shipping costs, I decided to see what I could concoct at home... and
the result was GREAT!!
Sugar Free Sno-Cone Syrup
1 pk SF kool-aid or any drink mix packet (ex. Crystal Light, etc)
16 oz. water
(Alternate option... any reg. unsweetend Koolaid packet and as much
artificial sweetner as you need to make it taste right... this option
gives you more flavor choices)
MIX WELL and POUR OVER YOUR SHAVED ICE from your home shaved ice
machine... pour as much or as little as you desire and ENJOY!!
It doesn't quite stick as well as the SF sno cone syrup I bought, but
it will sure make do!
Lori

Hello everyone,
Just wantted to let everyone know that I have a date for my WLS
Surgery. I had my consult today, June 25, 2003, with Dr. John L.
Mathews with Surgeons Group, P.C. at Baptist Princeton. I was a
little worried that he wouldn't do my WLS Surgery because at 5'11"
and 520lbs and a BMI of 72.5, I am the largest person that they have
operated on. Dr. Mathews with Dr. R. Jay Smith assisting, did my Gall
Bladder Surgery LAP on March 31, 2003, and he was worried that he
would have complacations. Everything went terriffic, no complacations
and very little pain. I have healed very good and I am doing good,
although last month I had two bouts with Kidney Stones. They had to
get a NEW Table because under my weight the table didn't want to tilt
properly, and the Probes were almost too short, so they have gotten
longer probes so they can do my WLS Surgery LAP also. Please, say a
few prayers for me, as I always say a prayer for anyone and everyone
that is going through this, we all can use all the prayers that we
can get. Thanks again, Grady

Hello My name is Michelle. I am 33, married and a mom of 7. Although I do live in Colorado I hope that it is okay I join. I was refered here from another WLS list. It was called OSSG Off track. I am considering WLS and will be going to my first seminar tomorrow. I am here to hopefully learn all there is to learn about WLS, post op and pre-op. I also hope make some new friends as I really do not have a very good support system here.
Well I better run,
I look forward to knowing you all more soon,
Michelle

[INLINE] I had my first appointment with Dr Pennington yesterday and am so excited to finally be on my way. He and his staff are so nice.

well i came home today without anything wrong so far. only thing i
cant stand is this drain which i can deal with. well, i hope be at
the support group meeting on the 30th
later
brandon

Hello Guys,

I have been enjoying the emails for the past couple of

days...It is so nice to read of others progress, point

of view, etc.

I am post op a year and have lost about 130 pounds.

What an awesome journey.....

BROWN FOX....

Hi, my name is Tee Little and I had my surgery on May
14, 2003, but I am still having so much trouble with
nausea and generally always have the feeling that I
have to throw up. I also need to know what type of
other soft foods can you eat besides, apple sauce,
jello, cream potatoes, when will I be able to eat the
baked or broiled fish or chicken and not get so sick
to my stomach. did anyone else have any such
problems. My email address is mercy35235@...
Any help would be appreciated.

What room is the Support Meeting in? Is it in the same room the
Weight loss seminar was in held in on June 17?

Hi,
Is there anyone from Tuscaloosa that hasn't gone through the surgery
yet? (Or anyone who has, for that matter.)
Drop a line!
Selina

I just received a message to call Dr.'s office tomorrow and set up a
surgery date. I'm very interested in attending support meetings but
since I live about 60 miles away (one way) I wondered if there are
others living in Chilton county that might be interested in car
pooling.

Hey guys! Glad to see all of you who were there on Saturday. We had a
great meeting as always. I walked away with more insight as to what I
should do as a WLS patient with my family and friends. As I do not
have a 'spouse', some things did not pertain to me, however everyone
should have learned something.
ANYWAY, I weighed and measured Saturday. I have lost 72 lbs and 44
inches since I had my surgery on March 19,2003. I am slightly
disappointed (please don't yell at me!) that I fell short of my goal
of 75 lbs lost in that three months. Not weeping and wailing and
giving up disappointed, but slightly disappointed inside. I just
can't explain how great I feel!
Look forward to seeing all of you at the next meeting!
Amanda

I saw a powerpoints presentation back in may and have been reading
all I could on wls. Now I have my first doctors appointment Tuesday
June 24th with Dr. Pennington. My Sister also has her first
appointment with Dr. Dewitt next week. It is funny, back last October
when I was trying to find a Doctor that performed wls I nearly gave
up because I couldn't seem to find any. Now, it seems every time I
turn around I am finding out about a new doctor.
I pray everything goes well for me and my sister. I am so tired of
the way all this weight makes me feel. I am ready to leave all this
extra baggage behind and find the new me.
I hope to get to come to the meeting Monday night. I can't make it to
the one today.