Weight loss

Rona P. Scott
2251 Highland Avenue South
#1006
Birmingham, Alabama 35205
October 20, 2003
Editor@...
To Whom It May Concern:
I am writing regarding your article âMs. Fatso? The big deal about being
obeseâ. The only way I can think to begin is by addressing the title âMs.
Fatsoâ. If this article were about social issues involving African Americans
would it have been titled Ms. Ni****? (a term so appalling and demeaning I
cannot even bring myself to type it here for the sake of reference). If the
article were about an amputee would it have been titled âMs. Stumpyâ? Or
how about Ms. Psycho or Ms. Dope Head or Ms. Lesbo? I seriously doubt you would
have used these titles yet, for reasons Iâll never understand, it is still
socially acceptable to humiliate and demean the obese. Perhaps the biggest
irony of your hideous cover is the fact that the article is one urging public
acceptance of the obese. Possibly if you stop and seriously consider the
article and your cover you will see exactly why society does not embrace the
obese.
Next I would like to address the 2nd part of the titleâ¦.âThe big deal
about being obeseâ. Your article gives some statistical data regarding
obesity and bemoans the fact that many insurance companies will not pay for
gastric bypass surgery. However, if the individuals who make critical decisions
for insurance companies regarding obesity surgery suffer from the same narrow
mindedness that your publication does then why in the world would they pay for
it? How can an article with Ms. Fatso on the cover give a second thought to the
fact that we must purchase our clothing at a place called Dress Barn? Being
forced to shop at a place called Dress Barn is NOTHING in comparison to being
represented by Ms. Fatsoâs purposely degrading photos. Oh, and back to the
big deal about being obeseâ¦..let me give you a few more statistics, with
sources cited,â¦â¦.. (I urge you, if you feel that you are a responsible
journalist to read ALL THE WAY TO THE END OF THIS EMAIL)
Obesity is the most neglected public health crisis of the 21st Century. It is
neglected not because many health leaders in both the public and private sector
do not understand the importance of obesity, but because it receives a miniscule
amount of attention and policy development at the federal, state or local level.
Obesity is second only to tobacco as the leading cause of preventable death in
the United States. More than 300,000 people die each year as a direct result of
obesity. The costs of treating adults with obesity are over $238 billion a
year, making it one of the most expensive diseases in the country.
The all-cause mortality rate for individuals with obesity, particularly with
cardiovascular disease, is 50% to 100% greater than for normal weight
individuals. (National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. Clinical Guidelines on
the Identification, Evaluation, and Treatment of Obesity in Adults: The Evidence
Report. NHLBI Obesity Education Initiative Expert Panel on the Identification,
Evaluation, and Treatment of Obesity in Adults. Washington, DC: U.S. Department
of Health and Human Services, 1998)
In 1997 2,314,245 people died in the United States. 13% of all these deaths
were related to or the direct result of obesity. (American Obesity Association
â http://www.obesity.org)
Q:What is the cost of heart disease related to overweight and obesity?
A: Direct cost related to overweight and obesity: $6.99 billion (17 percent of
the $40.4 billion total direct cost of heart disease, independent of stroke).
Q: What is the cost of type 2 diabetes related to overweight and obesity?
A: Total cost related to overweight and obesity: $63.14 billion (more than 60
percent of the total cost of type 2 diabetes)
Direct cost: $32.4 billion
Indirect cost: $30.74 billion
Q: What is the cost of osteoarthritis related to overweight and obesity?
A: Total cost related to overweight and obesity: $17.2 billion
Direct cost: $4.3 billion
Indirect cost: $12.9 billion
Q: What is the cost of hypertension (high blood pressure) related to overweight
and obesity?
A: Direct cost related to overweight and obesity: $3.23 billion (17 percent of
the total cost of hypertension)
Q: What is the cost of cancer related to overweight and obesity?
A: Post-menopausal breast cancer
Total cost related to overweight and obesity: $2.32 billion
Direct cost: $840 million
Indirect cost: $1.48 billion
Endometrial cancer
Total cost related to overweight and obesity: $790 million
Direct cost: $286 million
Indirect cost: $504 million
Colon cancer
Total cost related to overweight and obesity: $2.78 billion
Direct cost: $1 billion
Indirect cost: $1.78 billion
Q: What is the cost of lost productivity related to obesity?
A: The cost of lost productivity related to obesity (BMI 30) among Americans
ages 17-64 is $3.93 billion. This value considers the following annual numbers
(for 1994):
Workdays lost related to obesity: 39.3 million
Physician office visits related to obesity: 62.7 million
Restricted activity days related to obesity: 239.0 million
Bed-days related to obesity: 89.5 million
(http://default.healthmobius.com/wms/understanding/statistics.asp)
According to the National Institutes of Health, 55% or 97 million adults in the
United States are overweight or obese. At least 33% (58 million) of adults are
considered overweight (BMI of 25.0 - 29.9), and 22% (39 million) are obese (BMI
increased dramatically, and has since shown no sign of improvement.
Approximately 25% of children and adolescents are overweight, a figure which has
doubled in 30 years. (Troiano, R.P. and Flegal, K.M. Overweight Children and
Adolescents: Description, Epidemiology, and Demographics. Pediatrics
101(3):497-504, 1998.)
Persons with obesity are at risk of developing one or more serious medical
conditions. Obesity is associated with more than 30 medical conditions. Strong
relationships have been scientifically established between obesity and at least
15 conditions, including arthritis, breast cancer, heart disease, colorectal
cancer, type 2 diabetes, endometrial cancer, end-stage renal disease, galbladder
disease, hypertension, liver disease, low back pain, renal cell cancer,
obstructive sleep apnea, stroke, and urinary incontinence.
(Press Release. HHH News â DHHS, New Report Documents Improvement in
Americansâ Health. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services,
Washington, DC, June 10, 1999.
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. Clinical Guidelines on the
Identification, Evaluation, and Treatment of Obesity in Adults: The Evidence
Report. NHLBI Obesity Education Initiative Expert Panel on Health and Human
Services, 1998.
Shape Up America! and American Obesity Association, Guidance for Treatment of
Adult Obesity, 1998.
AACE/ACE Obesity Task Force. Position Statement on the Prevention, Diagnosis and
Treatment of Obesity [online]. The American Association of Clinical
Endocrinologists and The American College of Endocrinology, 1998 revision.
Available at http://www.aace.com/clinguideindex.htm)
Obesity rose 6 percent nationally between 1998 and 1999, and the increase
affected all regions and demographic groups and most states in the United
States.
Since 1991, obesity among adults has increased by nearly 60 percent nationally.
Individuals 30-39 years of age had a 10 percent increase in obesity between 1998
and 1999. Diabetes in this same age group increased by 70 percent in the 1990s.
Obese individuals have a 50-100 percent increased risk of death from all causes,
compared with normal-weight individuals. Most of the increased risk is due to
cardiovascular causes (National Heart Lung and Blood Institute 1998).
(http://www.peanut-institute.org/Obesity_Stats_PR.html â According to CDC)
Poor diet and inactivity, contributors of obesity, are responsible for between
300,000 and 587,000 deaths a year, making it the second leading cause of
preventable death in the U.S. (McGinnis, J.M. and Foege, W.H. Actual causes of
death in the United States. Journal of the American Medical Association
270:2207-2212, 1993.)
Cancer - There are numerous epidemiological studies of obesity and
site-specific malignancies, one of the largest of which is the American Cancer
Society (ACS) Study involving more than 1 million men and women. Through the
last followup year (1972), 93 percent of the subjects were traced (alive or
dead). Obese males, regardless of smoking habits, had a higher mortality from
cancer of the colon, rectum, and prostate. Obese females had a higher mortality
from cancer of the gallbladder, biliary passages, breast (postmenopausal),
uterus (including both cervix and endometrium), and ovaries. In the case of
endometrial cancer, women with marked obesity showed the highest relative risk
(5.4) for the obese versus the nonobese. (Health Implications of Obesity. NIH
Consens Statement Online 1985 Feb 11-13 [cited year month day]; 5(9):1-7.)
A 1992 N.I.H. (National Institute of Health) Assessment shows that 95% to 98% of
people who lose weight by conventional methods regain it in less than 5 years.
And that, in a nutshell, is the BIG deal about being obese. How dare you use
Ms. Fatso to minimize and belittle this overwhelming health crisis our nation is
facing. Possibly you could explain Ms. Fatsoâs presence on your cover to the
families of the 300,000 to 587,000 people who DIE as a direct result of obesity.
Perhaps you could explain to my friend Johnâs two young sonâs who wept at
his casket after he perished as a direct result of obesity that itâs socially
acceptable to make fun of people like their father. Perhaps you could explain
to me, a former Ms. Fatso, why publications like yours continue to break my
heart without hesitation.
For twenty years I was morbidly obese. I was an observer in my life rather than
a participator. I was fortunate enough to be able to have gastric bypass
surgery and regain my life and my self esteem. However, at my highest weight I
was NEVER Ms. Fatso. I ALWAYS had pride in my appearance. What you need to
understand is that FAT does not equal STUPID! I have dedicated my life to
helping other obese individuals reclaim their health and well being. I have
also dedicated my life to stopping publications like yours from embarrassing and
humiliating 55% of the American population. I work full time with gastric
bypass patients, host two large gastric bypass support groups and teach
sensitivity training to health care providers to ensure that it is NEVER
necessary for an obese person to have to check their dignity at the door. I am
on the editorial advisory board of a national surgical weight loss magazine and
a published author. While I appreciate national organizations that promote
âfat acceptanceâ I prefer to promote social acceptance of the obese without
glamorizing it. It is grossly unhealthy to be obese. Your article states that
a family doctor suggested to the author, as a 200 pound woman, that she not
âobsessâ about losing weight before getting pregnant. As a 200 pound,
5â6â woman the author is 2.5 times more likely to DIE than a woman of normal
weight. This isnât a joking matter!
I have passed on your publication to all members of our support groups and asked
them to write you. I am also considering passing it along to national groups
though I donât necessarily want to promote your publication considering that
publicity is publicity whether itâs negative or positive.
I am calling for an apology ON THE FIRST OR SECOND PAGE of the next issue of
your publication. A one inch square on the last page wonât get it. Further,
I am challenging you to contact me and let me write an article for your
publication. I will be happy to provide you with my previous publications and
my resume. You were willing to humiliate an entire segment of Birminghamâs
population. Now you have the opportunity to show what youâre really made of
and do the right thing by allowing a more realistic, less biased story with a
dignified cover photo. What do you say?
Regretfully yours,
Ms. NotsoFatso
Rona P. Scott
2251 Highland Avenue South (yes âIâm your upstairs neighbor)
#1006
Birmingham, Alabama 35205

Hi--at the meeting on Saturday, Melissa Bain was briefly talking
about a shampoo she had discovered to help with hair loss--she
called it Thera Pro Shampoo (I hope I wrote that down correctly).
She had to leave early, but did anyone learn where this shampoo can
be obtained? Thanks a bunch.

We would like to remind you of this upcoming event.
Support Group Meeting
Date: Monday, October 27, 2003
Time: 6:00PM CST (GMT-06:00)
This is the regular weeknight meeting at MCE. Doors open at
5:30, meeting starts at 6pm.

Has anyone ever had a breast lift paid for by insurance? If so what
criteria did you have to meet.
Thanks.

Dear Bari-Godmother . . . so, how is your family? Please give us an
update.
-Mike
315/pre-op/190

As I wrote earlier I was denied by BCBS. I called Dr. Schmitt's
office and asked why, and the first tiime they just said because it
was a pre-existing condition. I said I can easily fix that as I've
had continuous covergae since 1999. So I was happy thinking that all
I had to do was get some certificates of coverage. Then I talked to
BCBS, and got their letter later yesterday afternoon, and it seems
that I was denied because of pre-existing coverage and lack of proof
of medical necessity because my bmi is below 40 (it's 38). So I
talked to Dr. Schmitt's office again this morning and asked Chris (I
think) what gives??? I had a letter from my pcp which I gave to them
at my consult (9-23-03). I also had written a letter and detailed
diet history, which were also submitted to them. Debra even remarked
during the consult that I was so well-prepared. I signed a couple of
releases for other medical records and told Debra I would hand-
deliver 8 year's worth of records from my gynie two days later, which
I did (btw I only live 5 min. from MCE).
When I talked to Chris this morning she said that I was indeed denied
b/c of lack of proof of medical necessity. I asked what I was
supposed to do. Do I need to get another letter from my pcp (who is
now on maternity leave)? She was kind of vague and said the only
thing submitted on the first request was Dr. Schmitt's notes, and he
couldn't document my comoridities, because it was the first time he
ever saw me (duh?). She said that was normal procedure to submit only
the surgeon's notes the first time. And now they would submit my Dr.s
letter and gyn notes, which all document diet efforts and
comorbidities.
I've completed all my other requirements (psych eval, support group,
nutrition, etc.) and my instructions are to call the office in two
weeks to hopefully start talking about a schedule. I feel so hurt
(not to mention my husband is furious) because I have to now wait on
this appeal process which possibly could have been avoided if they
had submitted everything the first time. Sorry this is so long but
I've previously gotten some suggestions to do things that I've
already done. Is this normal procedure? I don't want to act
suspicious of the staff, but I don't have a lot of trust in them
right now. And I certainly don't want to make enemies of them! I want
this to be a good experience, as I'll be dealing with them for many
years to come if I get to have this surgery.
Thank you in advance!
Katie W.
=======================================================================
NOTE: Hi guys - you all know this is a moderated group so I'm going to
answer this questions before it even gets posted to the group. First,
let me say that I'm so sorry for your disappointment Katie. However,
the appeals process isn't nearly as long as you think. Sometimes it
takes only one or two days. The reason it is submitted with only the
surgeon's notes initially is because they submit for coverage even
before you've completed all pre op testing. Nine and a half times out
of ten this makes things faster and every now and again we'll hit a bump
in the road and have a denial like yours. There's no need to feel
suspicious of the staff and there's no way they see you as the enemy so
don't worry. They're just following standard procedure and I bet that
once it's resubmitted you'll be pleased to receive an approval. Don't
worry - they're working hard to make everything work out for you. I
don't work in that office and I don't work for the doctors. But,
working in the hospital I see every day how busy they are and how
committed they are to getting the approvals in as timely a manner as
possible. Hang in there honey!
Love,
Rona
Your Bari-Godmother

Okay, so I have another question.
I hear that we need to be part of a support group. I understand that
without the support group, success in this surgery is lessened
greatly. So, what is the difference in the support group, and
something like OA?
I keep hearing about "head hunger" and how we have to deal with that,
even if our stomach is full. If head hunger is my true enemy, and
the surgery does not battle head hunger, is it the surgery, or the
support I need? This is a simple question for a very complex issue,
so please forgive me.
I am going to begin OA anyway because I need it. I am a compulsive
overeater. My Dad died in March, and over the last year I have
gained 70 - 80 lbs. Some have drugs, I have Snickers Ice Cream Bars and Vanilla
Coke. the only difference is that mine is still legal. :)
-Mike

Well everyone I have started the journey finally. I plan on being at
the Saturday meeting. Dr. Miles told me one is required before
surgery and I figured this Saturday is as good as any. I hope to
meet several of you there. I see your messages here on the message
board and it will be nice to be able to put a face with the name. I
am very nervous yet excited at the same time about this whole
ordeal. Hope to see ya there! Sheila

Subject: THE MOST IMPORTANT PART OF THE BODY

Wolfie
Leeds, Alabama
Lap RNY
August 27,2003
Dr. Lee A. Schmitt, M.D.
Medical Center East
Beginning Weight: 336
"Keep Em Laughing!"

Well group, I had hoped to see lots of you in the group in the chat room last night. I went in and sat there and didn't even know that Clem had come in. I had so many screens on top of screens that the chat room was covered up. But we did speak until I accidentally closed AOL. Just my luck! It is such a good forum for everyone to ask questions and get quick answers if they are known. And to talk about problems or successes we are all having. I sincerely hope everyone will give it some more thought and come into the chat room. It is also a way to get to know people from the group even better. Then when we get to the meetings, we don't just look over a crowded room and not have some familiarities , other than our common goal, to be healthy and thin, we have begun a journey where we have also established great friendships. Come on people! Lets chat! Skinny Wishes everyone!

Wolfie
Leeds, Alabama
Lap RNY
August 27,2003
Dr. Lee A. Schmitt, M.D.
Medical Center East
Beginning Weight: 336
"Keep Em Laughing!"

Hi All,
I have a question please from a seven week postie. I feel like all I
do is eat all day long. I never get hungry but it just seems like I am
always eating and I feel like I am eating too much. Can somebody take
a look at a typical daily intake for a day and tell me if I am eating
too much. My mind keeps telling me I am and that I need to cut back
or I am not going to lose any more weight but I don't want to cut
back too far and screw things up that way either! HELP!! Any thoughts
or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!! Thanks in advance!
Yesterdays menu:
(eaten throughout the day)
4 oz vanilla protein drink (30 gms protein)
1/2 cup sunflower seeds (3.5 gms protein)
1/2 package lunchables--just the cheese and crackers (6.5 gms protein)
1 oz brazil nuts--give or take a nut :-) (6 gms protein)
16 oz tomatoe juice (8 gms protein)
1/2 TV dinner--salsbury steak & mashed potatos (6.5 gms protein)
Is this too much??? Am I making the wrong choices????? HELPS!!
Sandi C.

Well everyone just had to post today since it's 6 months since Dr.
Schmitt rearranged my gastric tract. I'm lucky to be one of the many
people who have had a very easy time of it, but I've been stuck on a
plateau for the past week!
This surgery has changed my life! Would do it again in a New York
minute!!!!
Started at 397.5 and now at 285. Hope to loose at least another 50lbs.
I am keeping up with my protien (thanks Wes) but can't seem to break
the 285 mark. Any suggestions Amanda?
I missed not going to last months monday meeting! Looks like I'll
miss the next two also. You all don't realize how much the support
group and our barigod mother helps us until you miss a couple of
meetings! Won't see you all till November 5.
Tried the chat room tonight with no success. Rambled enought, besides
I got to go work out(have to try to keep up to the standard set by
you Amanda!).
And no "It's Raining Men" for the fashion show for me, eventhough I
find myself sometimes thinking of Chan in the hot tub, I'm still
national league!!!!! I'm counting on you Wes to keep my song a secret
until show time!
Hope to see you all soon. Keep up the good work everyone!
Proud to be an American (see ya soon Norm) and a Looser (of the best
kind)!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
John Kosie
MCE - Lap RNY Dr. Schmitt
April 14, 2003
397.5 - 285
Go Cubs!!!!

In a message dated 10/13/2003 1:43:44 PM Central Standard Time, kfwilkins@... writes:

When I went and renewed it back
in July, The woman looked over her glasses and asked me if would
like to change my weight (it says 145), I said "nope", and she let
it go at that.
OMGGGGGGGGGG ROTFFFFFFFF I LOVE IT, ITS LIKE THAT TIME I WAS IN THE STORE GETTING JUNK FOOD FOR A CAMPING TRIP WITH 5 KIDS AND THIS MAN IN FRONT OF ME LOOKED AT MY CART, AND SAID " LADY DONT YOU KNOW THAT STUFF WILL MAKE YOU FAT" I DIDNT BLINK AN EYE AT HIM AND SAID " I HAVE BEEN EATING IT ALL MY LIFE AND IT HAS NOT MADE ME FAT YET...... THERE I STOOD 5'1 270 LBS. AND I JUST SMILED, HE TURNED AROUND AND SHUT HIS MOUTH.........
AND I DID GO AND LOOK AT MY DRIVERS LIC. AND IM 30 LBS BELOW WHAT IT SAYS, GAWD I HAVE LIED FOR SO LONG ON MY LIC. I'M NOT SURE WHAT TO THINK ABOUT THIS LOL.
WHAT A GREAT FEELING LOL
RITA

In a message dated 10/13/2003 7:40:14 PM Central Standard Time, lorilori2u@... writes:

No, I won't be there. Oneonta is having their band competition
Saturday... an ALL day even and I love watching the bands. I'll
probably try to make it to the Monday night meeting.
How have you been Jo Jo?
Lori
-66 lbs

Im doing pretty good. Losing inches, getting into clothes I havent ever worn or were to tight to even think about being in. I have lost 39 pounds so far. That is if my scale is right and supposedly it weighs my fiancee the correct weight everytime. Trying to drink more water and stay within my limit on the food, pushing the protein first. Oh yeah I am engaged. Hoping for a Valentines Wedding if we can arrange it. How have you been Lori? I plan to go to the Monday meeting also if nothing comes up. I will see you then.

Wolfie
Leeds, Alabama
Lap RNY
August 27,2003
Dr. Lee A. Schmitt, M.D.
Medical Center East
Beginning Weight: 336
"Keep Em Laughing!"

You and your family are certainly in my prayers Rona. I hope your Dad has a quick recovery now and God Bless you and Yours. Will see you Saturday! And Rona we all think your pretty wonderful to!

Wolfie
Leeds, Alabama
Lap RNY
August 27,2003
Dr. Lee A. Schmitt, M.D.
Medical Center East
Beginning Weight: 336
"Keep Em Laughing!"

Hi All,

Just wanted to let you know that we have an exciting meeting lined up for this Saturday. Tom Owen, who is a famous local bodybuilder, will be our special speaker. Tom has been on the Tonight Show and has done lots of other national TV too. He does alot of good work for local charities too. I'm excited that he's decided to speak to us regarding exercise, protein, good nutrition, etc. It's a meeting you won't want to miss.

Love,

Rona

Your Bari-Godmother

Hi my friends,

Just wanted to ask you all to say a quick prayer for my dad. Most of you know that he had BIG back surgery about 6 weeks ago and has REALLY struggled with his recovery. I shared with you that about the same time my mom's best friend of over 50 years passed away and then my sons lost 3 friends in a car accident and then my dad's dear cousin passed away unexpectedly. So, as you can imagine this has been a difficult time for my family. Well, today my dad's brother died. He was a precious, precious man and we will miss him so much. We were expecting it. He was so ill that we are almost relieved that he is now in a far better place. Still, it is difficult. Since we knew this was coming it has been almost like a cloud over my dad and I wonder if it's been part of what has made his recovery so hard. So - I have just claimed today as the last gloomy day for my family for a while. I know that good, happy things are in the future but my folks will need your prayers for a
few days as they get through this. You guys are a wonderful extended family and in case I haven't thanked you recently for being as wonderful as you are..........THANKS!

Love,

Rona

Your Bari-Godmother

Hi Friends,

Remember that Dr. Richard Azrin will be our special speaker at 6MAC on Saturday. He is a psychologist who works regularly with surgical weight loss patients. We'll get to have about 2 hours with him and have the chance to ask questions and participate in group discussions with patients who are 6 months post op or longer.

Cost for this meeting is $20.00 and includes the lecture, catered luncehon and program materials if applicable.

You MUST let me know by Wednesday if you're coming or not as I have to make arrangements with the caterer. If you're unable to come you will still need to pay for your lunch as I have to pay for all I order whether folks show up or not.

I know you won't want to miss out on this opportunity. I'm looking very forward to this meeting - IT'S GOING TO BE GREAT!

Love,

Rona

Your Bari-Godmother

Hi,

I was wondering if anybody else is addicted to tomato juice. I love the stuff and asked my surgeon about drinking it and he said it would be fine. The problem is I am afraid I am drinking to much! Do you think I can drink too much? I drink two pretty large glasses every night. One good thing (I guess it is a good thing!) though is shortly after drinking them I am on my way to the restroom!! No problems with the plumbing here!

I also absolutely love sunflower seeds! I buy the kind that you can get two for a dollar or the bigger bags of the same kind that are $0.88 at Wal-Mart! Can you eat too much of these? I can snack on the things all day long and eat an entire bag if I let myself. I try to limit myself to no more than 1 cup of them a day but it is hard! Would it be ok to eat more? It isn't like I am hungry, I haven't gotten hungry yet. I guess I am just use to eating them from before surgery and they taste so yummy!!

Any thoughts on the juice and the seeds? Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Sandi C.

I had my surgery on sept 15 I have only lost 21 lbs. I still feel
hungry and I can eat more than I think I should be able to. I have
talked with my Dr and he says hang in there it will work. I am VERY
DISAPPOINTED that I have not lost my appetite, and I havent lost more
weight.
My question is .. is there anyone else out here who is expericeing
the same, and does any one have suggestions as to what I can do to
change this and start losing more.
Thanks
Theresa

(OK in this forum there's not much that's considered all THAT nosy
<lol
I was wondering is there anyone in this group that's greater than 5
years post-op? If there is, have you had a difficult time keeping
the weight off or sticking to "the rules"? Have you gained any back?
I'm getting closer to surgery (i hope). It's just I keep
hearing "everyone always gains most of it back" or "it's not been
around long enough to have real data on the long-term maintenance"
I've been overweight since the age of three and was very
disappointed when Dr Miles wouldn't schedule me this summer because
of not keeping up with my diabetes dr appointments more regularly
(however, I DO understand why he did). I just had my 40th birthday
in June and WLS would have been one cool present. I'm back on track
with my regular visits with my diabetes doctor and hopefully I can
get a surgery date within the next year.
Sorry for the long post. It's been awhile since I posted up here,
although I read everything when it comes to my e-mail. You guys are
my heroes.

how do we get tickets for fashion show in case we can't attend the support group before the show?

I am so sorry I didn't make last tuesday's chat room. I wanted to so bad and went to bed early. I wasn't feeling real well. So if nothing else happens I will see you all there Tuesday. LoJo

Wolfie
Leeds, Alabama
Lap RNY
August 27,2003
Dr. Lee A. Schmitt, M.D.
Medical Center East
Beginning Weight: 336
"Keep Em Laughing!"

In a message dated 10/12/2003 7:35:21 PM Central Standard Time, lorilori2u@... writes:

drum roll please... I weigh LESS than what my drivers license says.
When I got them when I was 16, I put 195 on it. I think I may have
lied that day... ANYWAY! I always kept that weight on there. That was
14 1/2 years ago. I hit 193!! That makes a total of 65 lbs lost now
since July 1st. YIPPEE!!!
Lori

Hey Lori! You go girl! You are doing great. Probably won't even recognize you at the next meeting I see you at. Are you going to next Saturday's meeting?

Wolfie
Leeds, Alabama
Lap RNY
August 27,2003
Dr. Lee A. Schmitt, M.D.
Medical Center East
Beginning Weight: 336
"Keep Em Laughing!"

Does anyone have BCBS AL XAA? I've been denied, but don't know why
yet. BCBS said Dr. Schmitt's office would have to tell me, and they
don't have the letter yet, and it'll be sometime next week before I
find out why. Of course I'm getting a little ahead of myself, but I'm
driving myself crazy thinking of all the possibilities. And I was so
close to having all my pre-op requirements completed. All I had left
was my psych eval, which was supposed to be Monday morning. I
cancelled, as I couldn't see paying $300 if I've already been denied.
My bmi was 37.9, but my pcp and Dr. Schmitt felt I was a good
candidate because of comorbidities (high blood pressure,
fibromyalgia, cerebral palsy and significant joint pain).
If anyone out there can offer me any advice...you can email me
personally off the list. Thank you so much in advance!
Katie W.
Dr. Schmitt
(denied, but the fat lady <me

does anyone no of a really good plastic surgeon who has done this for at least 5 years or more i wont them to be really good i had found one in Virginia who does a body lift on people who has lost a lot but don't wont to go there o thanks

Hi all,
Last week several of us were in the chat room and we have decided to
try for each Tuesday at 8:00. Please join us. I met two people who
are close to having surgery and we all have lots of questions. So
those of you who have had the surgery come on and join us to tell us
what to do to get ready and how you are doing. IF you have not had
the surgery come join the chat and learn something
See you on the chat room thei October 14 at 8:00 Central time.
Clem

I am scheduled for WLS on 10/16/03...my doctor recommended Isopure protein supplements. Has anyone tried this (it has 50 grams of protein in one serving) and, if so, what is your opinion?

Thanks.

Karen

Surgery date 10/16/03

Dr. Edward Facundus

Huntsville/Crestwood Medical Center

Hi guys and gals, I'm a pre-op and I've been searching for various
protein supplements to try. I know some kinds of protein are better
than others, and that whey protein isolate is the best of the best
for us. What I want to know is what other types are good for the
supplements and what to look for in ingredient lists? I remember
Rona saying something about the Extreme Smoothies that Wes sells
having something other than whey protein that was also good, but I
don't remember what it was called.
Any suggestions of protein shakes or powders that you've liked? I
haven't found any bars that I can tolerate, but I like the chocolate
and vanilla Extreme Smoothies and the Nectar protein is pretty good.
I also tried the Atkins shake available at Wal-Mart, and I liked it
but I didn't know if it was the right kind of protein, or if it had
too much fat for a post-op (9 grams).
Thanks for the help!
Laurie

To anyone who has had a tummy tuck - how long were you off work post-
op? How long before you were able to drive? Did you come home with
any drains or packing?
Thanks for your input.

Hi all,
I had my first appointment with my primary care physician today since
surgery (August 28). I have lost 30 pounds! I would have been
happier with 45 but will sure take 30! Is 30 pounds in 6 weeks a
little slow? I am thrilled with what I have lost but I thought it
might come off quicker.
Anyhow, I guess I am officially a 'loser' now!
See you all soon-
Selina

drum roll please... I weigh LESS than what my drivers license says.
When I got them when I was 16, I put 195 on it. I think I may have
lied that day... ANYWAY! I always kept that weight on there. That was
14 1/2 years ago. I hit 193!! That makes a total of 65 lbs lost now
since July 1st. YIPPEE!!!
Lori

Hi All,
I tried to organize some of us to go into the chat room tonight
Tuesday at 8:00 Central time. In the past, every time I would go into
the chat room no one is on. Tonight there was 3 of us so that is a
start. It was exciting for me since one of the ladies on took her
sleep Apnea test the same night as I and we now know who each other
is. She is on the same schedule on this journey and it is great
having someone to go through this with that knows your own fears and
has some of the same questions as you.
Hopefully next week, Tuesday October 14 8:00 Central time we will
have a few more join us. I thought there would be a few more,but this
is a good start in getting this chat room going. Please try to join
us. For those of you who have had the surgery can help out us who are
half way through this journey. For those of you who are just getting
started maybe We can help answer your questions .I met two great
ladies on this chat room tonight, one same schedule as me and another
one wo is just about to have her intial meeitng with Dr. Miles. I
have gotten a lot out of the Saturday monthly meetings and now I
think I will get a LOT out of this chat room. Please join us next
Tuesday night.
Sincerely,
Clem Haag

We would like to remind you of this upcoming event.
Support Group Meeting
Date: Saturday, October 18, 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.

Hey Everybody!
I just wanted to tell everyone about the great time I had on Saturday
night. My surgeon, Dr Bryan Freeman, from Anniston, Alabama, puts on
a ball every year for his patients. This year it was held at the
Winfrey Hotel (translation la de da hotel, lol) in Birmingham,
Alabama and my husband and I went. It was absolutely the most
beautiful and most wonderful thing I have ever been to. Everyone was
dressed to the T in formals and tux's, they had a marvelous band and
enough food to feed an army! He even had the food sectioned out in
stations with signs on them stating how many months out this
particular dish was suitable for. They had things such as shrimp
kaboobs, salmon cakes, roasted turkey with oyster dressing, roast
chicken with fried rice and soy sauce, cheeses, fruit, spinach dip,
three bean dip, etc. My doctor even drew a name out and gave away a
trip to Hawaii!! Unfortunately I wasn't the winner but there is
always next year! I can't wait till the ball next year! By then I
can wear a swanky little dress and intend to do just that! I am
going to post a picture of me and my doctor that I took Saturday
night if that is ok with everyone. Just wanted to share the great
time I had with everyone. I feel so good after just the few pounds I
have lost since surgery! I can't imagine how good I will feel when I
lose as much some of you have!
Love to all,
Sandi C.
Sylacauga,Alabama
Lap RNY 8-26-03
370/333?/150

I will TRY. Goodness, thats such a big word.LOL. I will do it. But
thanks for all the supporters! I am very interested in meeting you
all October 18th. at the next support group meeting. I WILL BE
THERE!! No excuses for me. Gina, thanks for being such a great
person. It will take time for me to shed, but I will do it. I have a
family member thats not happy about this, my stepdad. He thinks I
will die. I know the risks, BUT I also know what will happen if I
don't do it. Alot of folks tell me that " oh no, don't have that
surgery, you can die from it", well my grandmother died a miserable
life weighing 454 lbs, Not being able to enjoy life and grandkids.
Well I am 26 years old and I have 3 girls that want my attention, I
weigh 320 lbs and I want to be the best I can be. It's not like I
just decided this over night(surgery) I have given it alot of
thought, about 2 years of thought!!! Carnie Wilson is the one that
caught my attention. From then on I have read everything about this
surgery, and I have decided it's up to the good lord up above what
happens next. So, I do not listen to anymore of those crazy
comments. As long as I believe in God and his touch with the docs, I
will be alright. I will start telling them to just "PRAY for me".
Sarah
"A dream of one day finding me"

You guys are my hero's... The booth at the Southern Women Show was awesome. Sorry I did't have time to chat. I had a Deaf Friend with me.. I did make it to visit the booth and see Chan before you guys arrived. The before pics of you guys are awesome. Back to you guys being my heroes... Your dedication to this support group is unbelievable. You give so much of yourself and your time. I hope these folks realize how lucky we are to have sponsors like you guys. Your work is not going unnoticed. ... applauds ... hats off to you guys. If there is anything I can do to help with the fashion show .. please let me know.

Diane
mepride2003 <mepride@...

Rona, count me in. I'll make the check. Kim Burton.

I was told by Dr. Lee Schmitt to try and lose
Sarah,
Please don't say you can't loose the 20lbs. You really need to try
to lose what he asked because they are asking for your best
interest. It will help with your surgery in the long run (the
procedure and your recovery). If you will drink protein supplements
for a couple of weeks you should be able to loose that.
Let me know if I can help.
Lisa

Hey clem, yes i have sleep apnea. I got my machine thursday oct.2.
And its goin real well. Except for my nose is killing me!! lol. It
will get better though, I can handle a sore nose lol. The way I
understood it was, Dr.Schmitt will clear me for surgey after 14 days
of cpap. No big deal, it will pass. Who will be doing your surgery?
Good luck with everything. Let me know when the big day happens!!
Hey Gina, as you read, everything is going well, but would you help
me with this question? I was told by Dr. Lee Schmitt to try and lose
20 lbs before surgery, o.k, I cant do it. Will he be mad? Will that
delay anything? Lord, I hope not. Thanks Gina..
Sarah
(Dr.Schmitt)

Lost two more pounds this morning....Grand total 33 pounds. Yipppppppeeeeeeeeee

Wolfie
Leeds, Alabama
Lap RNY
August 27,2003
Dr. Lee A. Schmitt, M.D.
Medical Center East
Beginning Weight: 336
"Keep Em Laughing!"

Hey everyone. Just wanted to let you all know that I have a date.
November 10th @ Carraway with Dr Andrew DeWitt. I am so excited. It
is finally gona happen. I didn't have to loose down to a certain
weight for him to do it--but I did weigh in @ 594.5. I was thrilled
with that. And hopefully no vena cava. If anyone here is thinking of
using Dr DeWitt--go for it. He and his office staff are wonderful.
Thanks to all of you who have been asking Chan about me. I guess you
didn't forget, huh? Kim, Kristy, Chan, Wes and Lisa-you are all
terrific. I'll try to see you at the fashion show on the 8th.
Have a skinny day,
Kathy

Well, my Dr. has finally talked me into it! I am trying to get the
WLS! I am 5' 11'' and 315. BMI of 43. My doc has tried to get me
to have WLS for 2 yrs, but I always said I could do it on my own, and
then went to Krispy Kreme. Know what I mean?
Anyway, my Dad passed in March. I started thinking about my life,
and what it was like to have the greatest Dad in the world. I sit
around, and breath heavy when doing strenuouse excersize like hunting
for the remote. I used to khike, SCUBA, rock clims, and go
rappelling. Now I do none of that. I want my child to have an
active Dad.
My Dr. said he recommends Dr. Scott Pennington, because he is a good
Christian surgeon, and someone he trusts. That was enough for me. I
have BC/BS Prefered something or another. I hope they accept me.
I haven't been to the presentation, but I have done so much
research. Funny thing, I began trying to find NEGATIVE info on the
surgery. Like I said, I didn't want to have it. But the more I
researched, the more I have found that it is perfect for me. I am
sold. Sometime this month I am supposed to go to the presentation.
-Mike

Hello all,
I am so excited I could just BUST.
I got my insurance approval letter today. All my test are done. I
had my sleep test done last night. Came home with the CPAP thingy
though. I will have to follow up with Dr. Vines in 2 to 3 weeks
about this. Does anyone know if my surgery will go ahead and be
scheuled or will I have to have clearance form Dr. Vines before they
will schedule a day? Either way I am greatful. My whole process
has been overwhelmingly fast. I think I may have set a record or
something. What do ya'll think. I just had my consult with Dr.
Miles on Sept 10th. Pysc visit on the 23rd, Nut class, labs X-ray
and sleep eval on the 29th. And then sleep test the 30th. And
letter of approval today. I can not believe it happened so fast.
I think it is a sign ..
When scheduling my appointments I ask to be put their cancellation
list and I would almost immediatly get a call with an appointment.
Now if only the 15 of the reqired 20 lbs will come off as fast. Any
tips.
I really enjoyed hearing everyones milestones monday night and can't
wait to sharing mine. Thanks to all of you.
Kimberly Jayne
future "looser" (LOL)
Dr. Miles

I had my surgery 4 weeks ago tomorrow, and have done absolutely GREAT! I NEVER even had to take any pain medication. Sometimes I hurt when I eat, but for the most part I feel better than I EVER have. I've already lost 35 lbs and am wondering why I didn't do this sooner. Thanks to all of you for your prayers and input on this board. I find you and your success very encouraging.

Sonya

09/05/03

-35lbs

i was wondering if anyone else has received a letter about the fashion show. on my letter i have contradicting dates. can anyone tell me when the first meeting for the fashion show is.

thank you

Latoya

Hello Ladies!!! Sorry guys...

I just rememberd, I have a dress that is a size 18w and it was "bridesmaid dress" but its really pretty for a fashion show anyways. It's sorda in between purple/plum color. It has I think like a 2 layer material and goes out. I will try to have a picture made and send it to ya'll or when ROna decides the next meeting for October, I can bring it then. But if u are interesting, email me at Clownslay82@... Subject.. Dress for Fashion Show WLS.

It has a pretty bow on the back.

I am going to sell it for 40 dollars if anyone is interesting.. It hasn't been worn becuase my friend called off the wedding so it never took place and its sitting in my closet collecting dust. Actually wrapped in plastic. I think I got the dress from JcPenny or Sears. Can't remember. IT's a really pretty dress..

Michelle

Well I don't know if no one is posting or if this mail account is set up wrong. I just had to resubscribe because of an email address change and get on this morning and not one email from any of the groups. My headache is getting bigger, lol. Hi to all of you. If anyone sees this then please let me know. Thanks.

Wolfie
Leeds, Alabama
Lap RNY
August 27,2003
Dr. Lee A. Schmitt, M.D.
Medical Center East
Beginning Weight: 336
"Keep Em Laughing!"

Ha Ha! What do ya know, somebody cancelled and I got to go last
night and finish my sleep study (Sept 29)!! That was luck for me.
cpap wasnt so bad. I slept better. I just hope everything goes well
and somone will cancel for surgery!! :~) hey brezygrl you was
right!! lol...GOOD LUCK EVERYONE
Sarah
. .
^
~

I'm so excited to let everyone know that our special speaker for the October
18th 6MAC is Dr. Rick Azrin. Dr. Azrin is a psychologist who will speak to us
regarding weight loss surgery and then stay for a question and answer session.
I think it will be a wonderful meeting. I am opening the meeting to spouses
and/or support persons but no children please. The cost is $20.00 per person
and this includes your luncheon, the lecture, program materials and a Q&A
session. What a deal!! 6MAC will be held at Medical Center East in Classroom B
which is across the atrium from our regular support group meeting room.
There are 40 seats for this meeting. Pre-registration and payment is required
with no exceptions. You can email me your reservation and remit your payment
to:
F.A.C.E.S. of WLS
2251 Highland Avenue South
Suite 1006
Birmingham, Alabama 35205
Payment and pre-registration must be received by October 15th. If the
meeting/lecture fills up before then I will post here to let you know.
Don't miss out on this opportunity to meet with your peers and a psychologist
with a genuine desire to help WLS patients who are many months or years into
their journey.
Love and hugs,
Rona
Your Bari-Godmother

Well hi everyone. My sleep study went well, except for one thing. I
have sleep apnea. So, Dr.Kim Schmitt wants me to go back and spend
another night in the lab. The earliest they had was NOV.13. So thats
a big slow me down. Oh well, maybe it will go faster than i expect.
I know that I am so upset with myself. I cant get up to do much
because my legs and hips hurt. Anyway, enough about me, Good luck to
all of yall. God bless,
Sarah
Dr.Lee Schmitt

What have I been doing this month to lose 37 pounds......the answer is I don't really know! LOL! My hunger still has not returned and my doctor said not to force yourself to eat if you aren't hungry so I don't. He said as long as you eat one meal a day that is good enough for right now. So I may nibble on some pork rinds or some sunflower seeds during the day and then when I come home from work and fix supper for the kids I will have something like some cottage cheese with shredded cheddar in it or a chicken wing or one of those lunchables with the crackers, meat and cheese in it and that is all I have for the day. I am getting in plenty of water, at least 48 to 72 ounces or more a day and I take my multi-vitamins and calcium faithfully. I probably weighed a lot more than you did to start with is part of why I have lost more. I started out at 370 pre-op. That makes a big difference in how quickly you lose. I am sure it will slow down now after that first month.
Wouldn't hurt my feelings none if it didn't for a while though! :-)

Sandi

I hope everyone at the yard sale did great. I can't wait to find out
how FACES did with their part. The rain held out until I got to
Trussville. Then it rained a LOT from there to Pinson.
Tell the BBQ chef that grill chicken was DELICIOUS!!!!! Oh my it was
so juicy!!
Hope to see everyone Monday night at the meeting.
Lori

I have gone in several times to chat with people and I can never find

Hi all,
First let me say that I am very excited and can't wait for this
surgery. I have been heavy all my life and this will help me take my
life back.
I have had my initial consultation with Dr. Miles Back on August 4,
nad I have taken my internal medicine, Psycho testing (and yes, I am
normal), have all my lab work done and now this Tuesday September
30, I have my last hurdle, I have my Sleep Study.
If anyone out there can tell me what to expect, I would appreciate
it. I need to call Monday to see what I need to take, but if you all
do not mind, tell me any suggestions of what to take or expect. What
all do they do to you?
For those of you who did not have sleep Apnea, how long was it
after this testing that you were given a surgery date? For those of
you who did have Sleep Apnea, how long did it take before you
received a surgery date.
How is it using the PAP machine? how big of a hassle is it. Any
recommendation if I havppen to need to use one. Any good secrets to
make it easier?
Well all, I want to thank all of you for your comments.
Clem Haag

Hello everyone! Sorry I haven't kept in touch a little better.
Saturday was my one year rebirthday. Dr. Miles performed my lap RNY
and I thank God for him and the talent He has given Dr. Miles. In
the past year, I've lost 132 pounds. I've gone from 317 pounds to
185 pounds. From a size 24/26 to a size 14/16. I posted my
pictures in the Photos section under Shelly's before and after. It
is hard to believe that is me. Go ahead and take a look. --Shelly

They are saying rain for Saturday!! OH NO! I need this yard sale... I
need the money! I need some clothes... LOL.
Lori

Hello Friends,
Here is a letter I wrote to Dr. Phil. Please say a prayer that it gets through
to him though I doubt it will. He is on a new campaign regarding weight loss.
Some of you may remember that a few years ago Dr. Phil said that we only needed
to love ourselves to lose weight. Now he's developed a whole line of weight
loss products and a book and is really telling all about it on TV and blasting
weight loss surgery. I'm serious when I ask you to say a prayer that we can
change his mind somehow.
Love,
Rona
Your Bari-Godmother
Dear Dr. Phil,
Initially when I decided to write you this letter I was angry and considered
blasting you. However, a bit of maturity has shown me that taking some cooling
off time and learning to value everyone's opinion whether I agree with it or not
generally has more positive results. The last time I wrote you I'm afraid I did
blast you and my anger was only further escalated by the rubber stamp email
response I received along with an offer for me to purchase your latest book.
Having attained a small degree of local notariety myself I now understand that
it's impossible to personally read and respond to every email and I have, on
rare occasions, had to use rubber stamp emails myself. With that said, I am
hoping that somehow this email will find it's way to you - the real you - and we
can find a way to work together and help people.
I am writing you about a subject that you don't agree with - weight loss
surgery. I hope this won't automatically compel you to toss this email into the
trash. Rather, I hope it will compel you to admit that you and I are going to
have to agree to disagree and that we need to talk. I applaud your commitment
to helping people lose weight. However, I am concerned - terribly concerned -
that you are viewing obesity as just an addictive personality or emotional
problem and you are leaving out the VERY REAL genetic aspect of it. I agree
with you that it is important to get to the root of what makes us overeat but it
is equally as important to recognize genetic predisposition to obesity and work
toward correcting that defect as well. I am convinced that by working together,
by blending the emotional healing with the physical healing, we can bring good
health and well being to the vast majority of obese patients. My question to
you would be this: Why does it have to be one way or the other? You could be
the champion for 6 to 10 million morbidly obese Americans by recognizing the
need for the tool of weight loss surgery combined with the tool of emotional
healing. Imagine if a moderate degree of individuals attain successful weight
loss through emotional counseling and a moderate degree of individuals attain
successful weight loss through surgical intervention then wouldn't it be
reasonable to assume that vastly more individuals would attain and SUSTAIN
successful weight loss if they had both? I'm not suggesting you become an
evangelist for surgical weight loss. I'm simply requesting that you give it the
credibility that it deserves. Consider educating yourself about it. You can
find a wealth of information at ASBS.org. Very credible scientific studies have
established the genetic component in obesity and morbid obesity. You can also
call me - not that I'm an expert but I have had the surgery and maintained my
weight for 3 years. I also Coordinate the Surgical Weight Loss Program for
Medical Center East - a large hospital in Birmingham, Alabama. I also host a
support group with over 600 members. I can put you in touch with dozens, even
hundreds of obese and formerly obese individuals who can share their experiences
with you. Again, I'm not asking you to become an advocate for weight loss
surgery but I hate to see you discourage people from taking advantage of this
amazing tool if they should choose surgical intervention. I realize the
probability of my changing your mind is slim but I can just imagine the impact
on the obese community if you opened your mind a bit. People trust you and if
you would only consider that you might be wrong about weight loss surgery you
could have the opportunity to save hundreds of lives. I'm including a link at
the end of this email to my profile on obesityhelp.com (which is another
wonderful site for you to research weight loss surgery). It will tell you a bit
about me and hopefully show you that I am a successful professional who just
disagrees with you a bit. Please reconsider your opinion of surgical weight
loss. You are welcome to contact me at any time for more information.
Sincerely,
Rona P. Scott
Bariatric Surgery Program Coordinator
Medical Center East
205-838-6590

I had my consult yesterday with Dr. Schmitt. He was great and the staff was
very nice. Deborah, who helps with records and insurance rocks!
Interestingly, at a time when I didn't need to lose weight, i've lost it.
I'm down 5 pounds from when I saw my pcp in July, taking my BMI from 39 to
37.9. My blood pressure was also very well behaved for once...why doesn't it
do that when I see my other doctors? So I talked to Lisa, the nurse
practitioner, and she said I probably have only a so-so chance at getting
insurance approval because of my low BMI. Then I saw Dr. Schmitt, and he was
real excited about my co-morbids (It's interesting when a Dr. looks at your
history and when he sees bad things he says "this is very interesting" or
"this is great"), and said he had no problem doing the surgery at all. I can
honestly say that I felt perfectly comfortable with Dr. Schmitt and would
recommend him highly. I'm fortunate in that I don't have to have a lot of
testing done, and I should be finished with all my other requirements by
Oct. 16. All I have to do is go to the nutrition class (Oct. 6), and psych
eval (Oct. 13). And the lab work, which I can do at anytime, and as I live
about 5 minutes away from the hospital, I'll probably be able to do that
next week.
If the iinsurance says okay (and because everything else is going so
smoothly, I'm really worried that this is going to be my undoing), I could
actually be looking at having this done in late November or December (Merry
Christmas & Happy Birthday to me!).
I don't mean to ramble on about myself, but if this helps any other preops
out there to know what to expect in terms of scheduling and timeframes...
Peace to all
Katie W.
Dr. Schmitt
(miserably waiting for insurance approval)

It is so exciting to read of your successes! All of you are an inspiration and motivation to me and others, Thank you for sharing your journey.

Life affords no higher pleasure than that of surmounting difficulties, passing from one step of success to another, forming new wishes, and seeing them gratified. He that labors in any great or laudable undertaking has his fatigues first supported by hope, and afterwards rewarded by joy...

To strive with difficulties, and to conquer them, is the highest human felicity.

Samuel Johnson

Within each of us is a hidden store of energy. Energy we can release to compete in the marathon of life.

Within each of us is a hidden store of courage. Courage to give us the strength to face any challenge.

Within each of us is a hidden store of determination. Determination to keep us in the race when all seems lost.

Roger Dawson

Went for my one month check up yesterday with my surgeon (surgery was 8-26-03) and thought I would share my good news! Drum roll please...........first months weight loss is 37 pounds!!!! I am well pleased with my progress and so was my surgeon!! I have been just great! I haven't been sick at all. Haven't thrown up (did froth twice though, one on calcium pill and one on ham----ham is bad!!) at all! He said everything was fine and to keep up the good work. He even said I lost more than he did HIS first month! LOL!! Got a big hug and a kiss on the cheek! I love that man, he is sooooo sweet!!

Well just wanted to share my good news! Hurray for me!!! Now on ward to crack the 300 mark!!

Sandi
Lap RNY 8-26-03
370/333/150

HEY EVERYONE, JUST WANTED TO DROP A LINE TO TELL YOU ALL THAT TODAY IS MY 1 YEAR ANNIVERSARY, OR RE-BIRTHDAY. WHOA HOO IT HAS BEEN THE BEST YEAR OF MY LIFE. THINGS HAVE CHANGED SO MUCH FOR THE BETTER. I CAN DO THINGS I HAVEN'T BEEN ABLE TO DO FOR YEARS.

I HAVE LOST 153 LBS IN THIS PAST YEAR. I HAVE GONE FROM A SIZE 26 TO A 9/10 AND I HAVE NEVER BEEN THAT SMALL IN MY ADULT LIFE (SINCE I WAS 9 OR 10 PROBABLY) NOONE KNOWS ME ANYMORE AND IT IS SO FUNNY TO SEE THE EXPRESSION ON PEOPLES FACES WHEN THEY REALIZE THAT IT IS ME. I JUST LOVE IT.

HOPE EVERYONE IS DOING WELL.

I HAVE AN APPOINTMENT WITH DR. MILES FOR MY 1 YEAR CHECK-UP MONDAY EVENING SO I WILL BE ABLE TO MAKE IT TO THE MEETING MONDAY NIGHT HOPE TO SEE EVERYONE THERE.

LOVE YOU ALL,

Melissa Bain
LAP RNY
Sept. 23, 2002
Starting weight 317
Weight NOW 168
Down 149

CONGRATS Jo Jo on the weight loss!!! I'm glad to hear you are doing
well. I missed you at the meeting! You'll have to come by the yard
sale and buy some of my stuff... LOL I NEED THE MONEY!!!! I need
clothes!! LOL I have one pair of jeans!
Glad to hear food is treating you well!! Keep up the good work!!!
Lori

If anyone else would like to sign up for the Plus Size Clothing sale, PLEASE E-mail Rona or Amanda ASAP.

Thanks

See link below

http://www.al.com/search/index.ssf?/base/living/1064222121226692.xml?birminghamnews?lheal

Hi, my name is Laurie and I'm new to this group. I've had my
consultation and done all the pre-op testing except the sleep study,
which happens tomorrow. So far, everything is fine with me
physically. My problem is losing the 20 pounds Dr. Miles told me to
lose before surgery. When he said it, I almost laughed because I can
drop that much weight in less than a month (just can't keep it off).
Or at least I used to be able to. Now I'm suddenly unable to resist
food of any kind, especially anything sweet. This little voice in my
head keeps saying "Better eat that now while you can!"
I've never had this much trouble dropping a few pounds in all my
life! I even went back to Weight Watchers last week hoping that
having to weigh in weekly would hold me more accountable. I
actually GAINED a pound in the first week!
Did any of you have this problem? How did you get through it?

Hello to those of you who might remember me! I finally had my surgery
on Sept. 8th and things are going well for me. Dr. Miles got to do
the surgery Lap and I had no complications. YEAH! I look forward to
seeing everyone at the next WLS meeting. Is there one next Monday
night? If so, I hope to see and meet a buuch of new friends there!
Thanks for all the inspiration that you have been. I have really
enjoyed reading the postings, even when I didn't post myself. And a
big THANK YOU to Rona Scott for all her support. And also, to Wes
Robbins! No matter where I would see him in the hospital, he ALWAYS
took the time to speak to me and talk about the surgery. Thanks a
bunch! It meant so much to me! Hope to see everyone real soon.
9/8/03 Lap 370/352

We would like to remind you of this upcoming event.
Support Group Meeting
Date: Monday, September 29, 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.

Well everyone, just wanted to update a little bit, if I have read my scales right, and Lord knows I have made a mistake on occasion, I have now lost 27 pounds. I am back into some of my favorite overalls, yippeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!!!!! And the looks are starting, lol. Ya know the kind where the guys walk up to ya at a counter and just keep staring and smiling that poop eatin grin, lol. I love it. At first though I thought I might have had something smeared across my face it had been so long since a man gave me that look and still wasnt sure until the friends of mine working in the store said he was checking me out. Eat your heart out I'm thinking, lol. All I know is I am feeling wonderful. I feel lighter. I sleep better. My sugar is in the normal ranges. Every once in a while it plunges though and I have to hit the juice or something sweet but it comes back up to a better number. Just wanted to let you all know how things are going here.

I am able to pretty much eat what I want. When I hit the plateaus I was worried. I had one of our support group members where I go to the meetings tell me to up my calories and my protein and the scale started moving. By the way, Thanks Wes, Your an angel!!!!

Skinny Wishes to everyone. Love to all!

Wolfie
Lap Rny...August 27,2003
Dr. Lee A. Schmitt
Birmingham, Alabama