I had surgery Monday morning, and got to come home today. I lost 3
lbs while in the hospital. I was fortunate that they removed my
drainage tube before I came home. I go back Monday for follow up.
I feel great!!!
Stephanie
Dr Schmitt
285/282/healthy :)
Hi Friends,
Normally I wouldn't ask a favor of this magnitude but my direct
supervisor asked me to appeal to anyone I knew about this. There is
a critical blood shortage in Birmingham, Alabama. IT IS EXTREMELY
CRITICAL! I am asking that each of you consider asking family,
friends and co-workers to donate blood. This can be done at the
Community Blood Bank on Lakeshore Drive in Birmingham. As WLS
patients it's not advisable for us to donate blood as we can
sometimes have iron deficient anemia but your friends, family and
workers can. Please consider asking these folks to give the gift of
life. Donating at the Community Blood Bank on Lakeshore Drive
benefits all hospitals in our area so please don't think this is a
Medical Center East thing.
Many Thanks For Your Efforts,
Rona
Your Bari-Godmother
Hey guys, I had wls on 6-15-04 and everything has been going great!
I am having a bit of trouble gaging how much i should be eating
though. If i eat the 2-3 oz. they suggested to eat, then some days I
am no where near full-or atleast i don't feel like i am. Some days I
feel like and probably am eatting way too much food, but I'm not
getting sick like most of you say you did. What's wrong with me???
I am a week out and have lost 20+ lbs, which i am thrilled about- but
I don't want to "graze" and defeat the surgery. I'm so scared I'm
going to mess this up. any help?
Cheryl,
Hi, amber cloer here. you and i had rny on the same day. i kept asking all the
women on my hall that had wls if they were you b/c i knew you would be up there
too. anyhow. congrats on your 11 lbs loss -that's terrific!! I wanted to ask
you if you were having any trouble getting that "full" feeling. I sometimes
haven't been able to get satisfyingly full like i used to be able to. I wasn't
sure about how much we should be eating. I know they said about 2-3 oz. and an
occassional snack..but sometimes i still feel hungary after i eat. I think i'm
not drinking enough water. Please let me know how you are doing.
-amber
381/363/200ish
Does anyone know of a "weight loss surgery friendly" OB/GYN at MCE,
St.Vincent's or Brookwood?
Any referrals would be appreciated.
Thanks.
Hi Cheryl,
I found it at http://www.kcwlsfriends.homestead.com/calciumandwls.html
I went back to the first part of the address (without anything after the
.com) and brought up the site, then went to the nutritional info on the
left, then to the calcium (again on the left).
Hope this helps.
Warm hugs,
Sherry
soprice@...
Hey there guys, long time no hear :) Been busy doing this and that lately. WIth kids ya know how it goes...
Ok, I understand the fashion show is coming up again and its exciting... HOwever, I have 3 dresses to get rid of adn want to sell it for at least 15 dollars each.
THe red dress I wore at the fashion show last November and its size m and then I have 2 more dresses that are similar thats a purple looking dress that was more of a bridal dress but still can be worn at the fashion show. one is size 18 and the other one is size 6 ( i think) Please email me at butterflyhazel3@... if u are interested and put on subject "wls fashion dresses"
THese dresses are in goood shape never been worn and is still in the plastic bag... :)
Thanks,
Michelle Lay
Rona and Wade <FacesofWLS@...
Rona, below is a message that I sent some friends about a plus size
clothing sale I am having this weekend. I am 3 months post op and
have a garage full of clothes that I need to get rid of. I thought I
would pass on to you just in case the attached flyer could be posted
on the WLS Support web site or if there was anyone you knew who might
be interested.
I have over 500 pieces of clothing that I need to get rid of.
Thanks.....
.
Below is the flyer that I am going to print to hand out and try and
post some places.....Curves, office, hair salon, neighborhood party
this Friday night, etc.
A map has been scanned also so I am going to copy that on the back
side of the flyer. Please pass on to anyone that you think may be
interested.
I did an quick inventory of just my clothes last night. I'll try to
do the same for Barbara's this weekend. So far I have the
following....this is both summer and winter combined....
Pants 58
Sweaters 15
Sweater sets 4
2 piece outfits 58
3 piece outfits 7
4 piece outfits 4
Dresses 53
Shorts 3
Wool shorts 4
Skirts 16
Tops/Blouses 176
Night gowns, etc. 11
Swim wear 6
Slips 17
Coat 1
Holiday wear 18
Cocktail/formal 10
T Shirts 38
Total so far 500 and still a few more to go....
NEVER AGAIN!!!
If you'd like more info on this yard sale please email Betty at:
btodd@...
Thanks!
Rona
Your Bari-Godmother
We would like to remind you of this upcoming event.
Support Group Meeting
Date: Monday, June 28, 2004
Time: 6:00PM CDT (GMT-05:00)
This is the regular weeknight meeting at MCE. Doors open at
5:30, meeting starts at 6pm.
Hi Amanda,
Glad we got a chance to chat Saturday and I am so glad you are feeling so much better. You are just absolutely beautiful.
Please email me about what I can do and how I can help with the yard sale. I will give you whatever contact info you need from me (phone, etc).
Looking forward to helping!
Selina
Selina
RNY (Lap) August 28, 2003
Dr. Schmitt
314/185/goal 160 [INLINE]
HI I'M SO READY. I HAVE MY SURGERY ON MONDAY JUNE 28TH, AND I'M SO
READY.I WOULD LIKE EVERYONE TO KEEP ME IN THEIR PRAYERS, AND WISH ME
GOOD LUCK. ALSO I HAD A QUESTION ABOUT LOSE SKIN, IS THERE ANYWAY I
CAN NOT HAVE ANY. I KNOW YOU HAVE TO GOT TO THE GYM AND WORKOUT, BUT
SOME PEOPLE STILL HAVE IT. I WAS TOLD MY ONE PERSON TO WEAR SPANDEX
PANTS ONE UNDER MY CLOTHES TO KEEP THE SKIN IN PLACE. IS THERE ANYONE
THAT KNOWS IF THIS IS TRUE,OR IS THERE ANY OTHER WAYS TO WORK THIS
OUT. CAN SOMEONE PLEASE HELP ME. BUT I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO HAVING
MY SURGERY.
ANDREA
Hi everyone. I am a 24 year old stay-at-home Mom and wife of a Marine. My husband is a Reservist and has been activated and will go to Iraq in a couple of months. He will be gone nearly a year. We will have TRICARE Prime insurance. Does anyone know if Medical Center East accepts this insurance?
I have been looking into this surgery for almost a year. We were uninsured, but now that I am going to be insured, I want to see if I can finally have this done.
I am 5' 5 and weight 260 pounds, which makes my BMI a 43. I believe I suffer from sleep apnea. My snoring is so bad, my hubby can't stay in the room with me. Plus, when he does, he has to wake me up because he is afraid when I stop breathing.
So, that is a little about me. Anything anyone can offer would be great :) Thanks everyone for reading this!
[LINK]
[INLINE] www.marykay.com/StepheeTedford [INLINE]
[LINK]
I am 1 month and 3 days post op. I have lost 25 pounds but then I
have just stopped losing. Is this normal? Ineed to lose 100 pounds,
and I sort of feel discouraged. I mean, I know 25 is great, compared
to my old dieting days, but it seems like so little compared to
others I read about. Am I being unrealistic? I work on Monday nights
and on Saturdays, so I can't go to support group, which I am sure
would help. Thanks, Carole
i came across this poem and it has helped me alot.
PERSEVERANCE
when the world is looming dark
and things seems not so clear.
when shadows seem to hover round
lord,may i persevere
when it seems everything's been tried
and there's no way to go.
just let me keep remembering
sometimes the journeys slow.
i may just need to stop and rest
along the path i throd.
a time to try and understand
and have my talk with god
as i gain new strength to carry on
without a doubt or fear
somehow i know things will be right,
and so i PERSEVERE!!!!!!!
I wanted to try some of the protein shakes and stuff before my
surgery and also start on the vitamins. Can some of yall recommend
what kind of protein shakes and stuff taste good? Thanks
I am unable to attend the meeting tomorrow due to leaving for
California at 5am (yay a vacation, finally!)
My only concern is that I won't be able to get one of the "goodie"
bags, god, how selfish do I sound? I know they are only given on
Saturday meetings, but I will be coming to the one Monday, June
28th, cause that's the week of my surgery. (pre-op is Tuesday,
surgery is Thursday, July 1st.)
I guess concern about getting one is to make sure I *HAVE* the right
foods for those first weeks, ya know?
Any help is appreciated.
Also, a question(god I've asked a lot), My mom bought some of those
new Minute Maid Light fruit drinks:
http://minutemaid.com/mm_products/other-9.html and I am curious, do
those count as my water in takes? The Raspberry Passion is
absolutely wonderful, and I don't even care for Raspberry!
Thanks for your help,
Fran
current weight: 337
goal weight: 170-160
surgery date: 7/1/04
Can someone tell me where the support group meeting is held at MCE?
Hello Support Members,
I read the messages almost daily and appreciate each post. I have only posted a few times since joining the group. I learn so much by reading everyone's messages. However, today I would like your input on the Panni Surgery. I am in the beginning stages of having it done, matter of fact I have a consult on tomorrow. If there is anyone that has gone thru it, would you mind telling me of your experience? How much time did it take you to feel yourself? Does the insurance cover it? What is the length of the hospital stay? Do you go home with drains? What about complications?
Thanks a bunch!
Brown Fox
Hi Again Folks! It has been a long time between posts again. I will
be 10 months out as of June 26th. I am down 166.2 pounds. I have
58.8 pounds to lose to get to my personal goal and 23.8 to get to
where Dr. Freeman says I should be able to get to. I have been
taking the last few pounds off very slowly. My mom says I was not
eating enough and has taken it into her head to feed me every day
since she is keeping my boys for me during the summer. I have eat
more the last three weeks than I believe I have since I had the
surgery! LOL! I am sticking with good things like grilled chicken
and steak though so it is good proteins. Except for the summer
squash which she knows I love and can't resist so she keeps cooking
it for me. :) Even though I want to lose more weight I would be
happy with what I have accomplished even if I didn't lose another
pound (hope I didn't jinx myself there! hehehehe). My problem is I
still haven't gotten my hunger sensation back so I really don't want
to eat. I have to consciously think about eating something and that
is very strange for me. I am still a popcorn junky (was before
surgery as well) and have to stay away from it because I know I will
eat it. I have no problem with popcorn either. Where as I can only
eat a small amount of most things, could eat an entire bag of
popcorn if I let myself! I have nibbled a cookie here and there
where as I wouldn't use to, but it is never more than two and only on
rare occasioons. I figure this is ok as Dr. Freeman says this is a
lifestyle change and not a diet and if you deprive yourself of these
things constantly you will feel like it is a diet and are more apt to
eat too much of them too regularly! Does that make sense? Am I the
only one who looks at it that way? Anyway, just wanted to check in
with every one and let you know how things are going. Keep skinny
wishes for me in your thoughts and skinny wishes to all of you!!
Sandi
Lap RNY 8-26-03
375/208/150
Dr. Bryan Freeman
Anniston, AL
1.has anyone had draining for any of their incisions?mine started
when i came home thurs and i called the dr and he said this was
normal bnut how long does it last? 2.how long before i can excersize
on machines? 3. how long before u can have SEX?????THANKS FOR
EVERYONES HELP!!!!!!!!
this question is for our wonderful bari-godmother,there is a new
jucie drink out by coke and it is called fuze. it contains chromium
40 mcg vitamin c 120 mg citrimax 400mg l-corniyine 40mg it is sugar
free 5 cal per 8oz carbs 1g can we drink this.i drank it before
surgery and it taste soooo good!!!!!!!!i had my sugery on 6-8-04
doing excellent!!!!!!!i start my soft foods this morning and i am
sooo glad i am A LOSER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!thanks,jeannie
I had surgery on April 13th. I am doing great. I have lost 50lbs.
I have one problem. At home my eating is fine but my daughter plays
softball all summer and we travel to different cities. We spend the
night in hotel rooms that sometimes don't have kitchens. I have no
clue as to what would be good to eat. Restraunts don't offer the
best choices. I think if I have to eat one more baked potato or
steamed veggies I will choke. When I am away on these tournaments I
get very dehydrated and very sick. I am not drinking all I am
suppose to because I belch every time I take a sip or bit of
anything. I have 6 more tournaments this summer and I am afraid I
may end up in the hospital. If anyone has any suggestions please
help. Brenda
I didn't think to ask if you need to take the supplements the pre op day....does anyone know? I know you are supposed to be on clear liquids but didn't know if I needed to take the vitamins. Also, day of surgery I am on menstrual cycle and didn't know if I would be allowed to wear underwear to surgery..does anyone know this??
Cheryl :)
We would like to remind you of this upcoming event.
Support Group Meeting
Date: Saturday, June 19, 2004
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.
My mom and dad were scared about me having the surgery... kept trying
to talk me out of it... said what if I died on the table or from
complications... I finally told them that I'm going to do it no
matter what they say... told them that I didn't have much of a life
it felt like right now... that it was getting hard for me to move
around... I was NOT going to do insulin shots who knows how many
times a day (I was heading towards being a diabetic.. it runs in my
family)... I was already on 2 blood pressure meds and it was still
going up despite the meds... PCP was getting on to me for my high
cholesterol and the next step was going to be meds for that. I told
mom if I die then it was meant for me to die that day whether it be
on the operating table or in the car on the way there or to wherever
I was going. I told them I wasn't happy the way I was... and I wanted
to be happy and I wanted them to be happy for me... their being
negative wasn't helping matters.
It took a while before my mom would even go to the support group
meetings with me... my granny would come with me. I had the support
of my aunt who had it done the year before I did, so she kinda help
shut them up...
Now I did have complications about a month out... so THAT didn't help
matters but they knew not to say anything to me... I was scared
enough without their comments.
Now that I'm almost a year post-op... they can see how much better I
feel... how much more I am doing physically...
I tell ya... I didn't do everything my parents told me to do growing
up... I sure wasn't going to start listening to them at age 30.
Sometime you gotta do what you gotta do... what is best for YOU!
Lori
Lap RNY 7/1/03 -104#
In a message dated 6/10/2004 1:55:58 PM Central Standard Time, perkygoth18@... writes:
Also, I have heard soooo many differnt people on the wls livejournal
community arguing about carbonated drinks. some are saying 6 weeks
out, others are saying 3 months. I thought we couldn't have them
after surgery, period?
Fran
surgery: 7/1/04
Well Fran...to the carbonated drinks...NO NO NO NO NO...that is what our Bari Godmother has said over and over. True some of us will sneak and have a sip but it is absolutely tabu for us. Avoid them altogether.
Wolfie
my mother wanted me to ask this:
She wants to know if she is "allowed" to use the shower in my room
when she stays with me.
Also, if my boyfriend were to come visit me, would he be allowed to
stay the night? I know the opposite sex can't spent the night in a
shared room, but can they in a private?
Also, I have heard soooo many differnt people on the wls livejournal
community arguing about carbonated drinks. some are saying 6 weeks
out, others are saying 3 months. I thought we couldn't have them
after surgery, period?
Fran
surgery: 7/1/04
I have a prayer request and I know this group always responds to someone in need. A co-worker lost her 2 year-old son last night. They were moving and a piece of furniture fell on him. Please pray for her family.
Thanks,
Gwen
Was just wondering at what point, if at all, we can stop those nasty chewable fruity sweet multivitamins and start taking an adult vitamin supplement and what kind is the best to take?
Wolfie
I am new to the group too. I have my follow-up appt. with Dr. Miles
next week and maybe will have surgery in July. My mother is very
against it and thinks I'm making a terrible mistake. She is so
negative every time I talk to her. I would like to have some email
friends and maybe meet someone at the support group meeting. I don't
want to go through this alone.
i had my surgery on 6-8-04 and i have done excellent!!!!i got up and
walked as soon as they told me to and continued to walk.the only
thing that wasn't pleasant was the i.v. in my hand i bruise easy and
it was painful the whole time.i have 4 incisions and had my drain
removed before i left. so far if i had to do it all over again i
would everyone at mce were soooo nice.
Sherry,
You gave me a website for Extreme Smoothies and I cannot remember it. I think the anesthesia took away my memory :) Can you give it to me again? Thanks.
Mary Kay
Rona, below is a message that I sent some friends about a plus size
clothing sale I am having this weekend. I am 3 months post op and
have a garage full of clothes that I need to get rid of. I thought I
would pass on to you just in case the attached flyer could be posted
on the WLS Support web site or if there was anyone you knew who might
be interested.
I have over 500 pieces of clothing that I need to get rid of.
Thanks.....
.
Below is the flyer that I am going to print to hand out and try and
post some places.....Curves, office, hair salon, neighborhood party
this Friday night, etc.
A map has been scanned also so I am going to copy that on the back
side of the flyer. Please pass on to anyone that you think may be
interested.
I did an quick inventory of just my clothes last night. I'll try to
do the same for Barbara's this weekend. So far I have the
following....this is both summer and winter combined....
Pants 58
Sweaters 15
Sweater sets 4
2 piece outfits 58
3 piece outfits 7
4 piece outfits 4
Dresses 53
Shorts 3
Wool shorts 4
Skirts 16
Tops/Blouses 176
Night gowns, etc. 11
Swim wear 6
Slips 17
Coat 1
Holiday wear 18
Cocktail/formal 10
T Shirts 38
Total so far 500 and still a few more to go....
NEVER AGAIN!!!
If you'd like more info on this yard sale please email Betty at:
btodd@...
Thanks!
Rona
Your Bari-Godmother
First , thank you all for your advice. i will take it all into account. However, i may have used the wrong day to journal. but it was the most recent. [INLINE] Because surely i dont eat cookies and ice cream everyday. Plus the cookies were homemade with fat free milk light butter, splenda etc. and the ice cream was low sugar. i just wanted to clear that up. However, any and all other ideas would be so very welcome.
Menu for today:
b/f: sasuage patty and the bottom of a bisucit @8:30
Lunch: half of a low carb flat wrap with 10 extra thin slices of land o lake honey ham and turkey ,1.5 slices of turkey bacon ,cheese and tomato. with 1 teaspoon of french dressing. @ 11:15
snack: 2 handfuls of cheez-its @ 2:00
Dinner: 1 1/2 grilled chicken finger with carrot and mushroom sauce and broc. and cheese(1c) @6:30
total of 70oz of water
Thank you all for all of your help
toya c.
Hi all,
I was wondering if anyone else has had this problem. I had my sleep
study Monday night, but I didnt get any decent sleep. I dont believe
my sleeplessness was due to apnea, but because of the way they want
you to sleep (flat on your back - I'm a side-stomach sleeper). They
even gave me ambien to help me sleep, but it didnt work. What
happens if you dont get any sleep during the sleep study? I think
this is my last hurdle before I can get my surgery date, so I would
really appreciate any advice (or warnings) anyone can give me about
this.
Thanks,
Regina :-)
Thursday, July 1st.
I can now go to California with my parent on my 2 weeks off from
school!
yay!
--fran--
hi, i havent even had my appointment with the doctor and i am very
excited. i have read all of the material they gave me three times
and i am sure i want to do this. i'm just looking for a friend to
help me stay encouraged. (the naysayers are speaking to me ie. thats
too drastic, do you know how your life will change, etc.)
Hello everyone, thank you for all your help with my problem. I tried all your suggestions but i still seem to be having the same problem. The last eposide i had was yesterday. i had eatten lunch at 11:30 and went for a walk @12:15. at about the 1/2 mile mark i began to tingle in my legs and arms and shortly after about 5 mins. i began to feel nasusas. Everything was making me sick. Even my water was not working. Every smell or anything i saw was making me sick. it took about 15 mins for the whole thing to subside.
I know i need to call my doctor and i will however, my work schedule makes it really hard to get in touch with anyone. i work from 8-5:30 or later. I am really concerned about gaining weight again and i really want to be able to exercise to help me keep the weight off. i am averaging between 1200 and 1600 calories a day. although i recently ate 1800 calories in one day which really bothers me.
I could really use some ideas on high protein snack the travel well. I am finding myself eating more carbs then i use to a few months ago simply because it is so easy to get to. I have started eating a lot of fruit or more exact bananas. Just as an example of a normal calorie day for is
monday:
B/f:
Bacon (extra thin 7slices) and three slices of cheese @8:30
Lunch:Chicken and rice(1/2 cup) carrots and sweet peas(1c combined)@11:45
Snack:banana, 2 handfull of goldfish 3oz of bluebunny yougart @1:45-2:20 (grazed)
Dinner: 4 chicken nuggets,20 shoestring french fries @6:15
Snack 4oatmean cookies (homemade) @7:30-8:15
drunk a total of 70oz that day.
Tuesday
B/f
6 french toast sticks @8:30
Lunch: scalloped potatos with ham & cheese, lima beans and cornbread @ 11:30
Snack: 1.5 cup of vanilla ice cream @ 2:30
Snack : 2oz of carb countdown @4:15
Dinner: 3chicken nuggets,20 shoestring french fries @6:30
Snack: 4 oatmeal cookies @7:50
Snack 4oz of carb countdown @10
drank a total of 72oz today
Thank you for all your help
toya c.
180lbs down and almost 100in lost.
Is there a list anywhere of what you need to take to the hospital?
Can you wear your own pajamas or do you have to wear the hospital
gowns?
HI, EVERYONE I GOT MY DATE. IT IS JUNE 28. I HAVE WAITED A LONG TIME
FOR THIS SEE YOU THERE!!!
I FINALLY GOT MY DATE. JUNE 24TH I WILL TURN THE PAGE IN THE NEWEST
CHAPTER OF MY LIFE. I CAN WAIT...MAYBE SOME OF US WHO ARE HAVING
SURGERY ON THE SAME DAY CAN WALK TOGETHER.
SOO EXCITED
HOLLY CHILTON
DR. MILES
JUNE 24TH 2004
Does anyone know if we can order pro- cal 100 from the pharmacy at
MCE?
I can not find it here at home.It's about a three hour drive to
Birmingham,Al
Joyce
I had surgery about 3 1/2 wks ago. First 2 1/2 wks lost about 24
lbs. and last wk only 2 lbs. Don't know what to do to speed this up.
Has my metabolism slowed down? Also, I know I would lose more if I
could excersize more but I have arthritis, back problems, diabetic
neuropathy and now bone spurs on one of my feet. The Dr. said NO
anti-inflamatory meds and it is very hard to deal with the pain. Any
suggestions? Thanks, Gail
June 14 with Dr. Miles. Starting to get a little nervous. Folks still
trying to talk me out of it.
Has it been worth it? Would you do it again? Does everyone have a lot
of loose skin? I talked to a very nice couple from Blount County. He
had received his 210# pin, and he had very little loose skin. Then
one day I saw a girl in WalMart I knew who had been through it, and
she yanked her shirt to right under her bra. A lot of skin, but she
wasn't planning on plastic surgery. I've always carried my weight
well, meaning spread evenly through my body. Most people would never
guess I weigh 295, which is down from the 330 I weighed at my initial
appointment.
The change of life shouldn't be so hard for me. I've adjusted to many
changes I didn't want lately, so this should be much easier. Right
now the only two things I think I'll miss are Diet Pepsi and Edwards
Sundae Pie.
Just looking for a little reassurance.
Thanks,
Tim
I keep thinking that in the nutrition class, Rona said we can
swallow pills as long as they are smaller than an M&M. Am I
remembering correctly? I was thinking instead of doing the
capsules, just cutting my current calcium supplements into small
pieces...is this a bad idea??
Also - I wear nail extensions. Will I be able to keep these on
during surgery??
Stephanie
14 days to go and counting.....
June 21 w/Dr. Schmitt
Of course, I meant to add...Do whatever your doc tells you to do. Each dr tells us different things.
I have osteoarthritis at the top of my spine and took vioxx for
months to control the pain. Now I can't take it,(2 Weeks post
surgery, yea!!)and I wonder is there anything we can take that isn't
an anti inflamatory? Has anyone had this problem? I don't think
Tylenol works on arthritis. Thanks, Carole
I have BCBS but it's through a small company. The owner decided not
to cover any type of WLS. I found this out in the middle of my eval
with Dr. Miles. I have been very discouraged and not sure what to do.
I think I'm going to pay for the surgery on my own using credit cards
and /or a loan. Has anyone else done this? Am I being crazy? My first
appt. with Dr. Miles was about 8-9 months ago. Someone at his office
said I would have to attend another info. meeting and basically start
the process all over to get a surgery date. She said alot of things
have changed since last year. Is that really true?
Hi Everyone,
I was finally scheduled for surgury June 22th. Hooray!
Wanda
Does anyone know when Dr. Miles/ Schmitt clears us to be able to
swallow our vitamins instead of buying the chewables? The chewables
seem to make me nauseated now, even when I eat before I take them.
Thanks for your input!
I wanted to know if we can take our own water and maybe tictacs to
the hospital to have after surgery. I am always hearing about how
dry your mouths gets...will we be able to have them or is there a
time limit as to when we can consume anything?
-amber cloer
Surgery Date JUNE 15
Is it better to wait for insurance approval to have your psych and sleep test? I'm afraid if I go ahead and have them,and then if I'm denied, I'll be stuck with the bill. I called my insurance company, and they informed me that it should be June 10th before they will know anything - my claim is being reviewed -they said it takes about 5 weeks. Debra sent it on May 5th. I would appreciate any feedback!
Last question....my husband changed jobs, and I'm so afraid if I'm approved we will have to continue paying his old insurance (I have NO idea)....or if I'm denied, we will have to start all over!! Any similar situations out there?!
So, I was talking with the person who schedules my classes for next
quarter and I told him I wasn't sure if I had to take off a quarter
yet. He recommended I call and check the status of my approval
process and see. Well, mom called the insurance (Blue Cross Peehip)
cause DR. Miles' office was closed for lunch, and apparently they
never GOT a letter requesting for approval for me. Debra never sent
it. I went on May 6th to see Dr. Miles and Debra said the letter
would go out the next day.
Mom said she was gonna call later today and talk to her, but I am so
furious, this was the only thing I was waiting on cause my sleep
study is on Monday!
Grr!!!
--frannie--
Hello Everyone! I am so excited! I have a date for my surgery with
Dr. Miles. It's June 7th. I can hardley wait!
Hi you guys!!! I finally have a date! June 9th, I will be gracing
Dr. Schmitt and MCE with me presence!!!! I am so excited and a
little nervous. I hope that I don't forget anything for my hospital
stay. I am not a water drinker, so I know to get propel and crystal
light. Also non-skid house shoes. Maybe a robe? Do you guys have
any other suggestions? Luckily the ride will not be to bad; my mom
lives only 15 minutes from the hospital in Pinson. I will be
staying with her until I am able to drive to Tuscaloosa. Does
anyone know how long before we are able to drive?? Thanks you guys
for your input and support!
Kristin
06/09/2004
Could someone please give me the location of the WLS meeting in Tuscaloosa, I was trying to get some information for a co-workers mother who lives in the Tuscaloosa area. Thanks a lot Teresa
I have one tub of Nectar Fuzzy Navel and one of Nectar Cherry that I have only
opened and
had one scoop and I wondered if anyone wanted them? I just can't drink them at
all and I
hate for them to go to waste. I'd feel much better knowing that someone could
use them.
I'm not asking for any money, and I could take them to work and leave them at
the front
desk if someone would like to come get them.
If you are interested, please email me at lenalive@....
M
i purchased a jug of nectar at the support meeting and found no
scoop.what can i use that would equal the scoop? my sugery date is 6-
8-04 and i was going to start the nectar today!!!!
Jeez, I was just looking at the calendar yesterday (how come you can
never remember the date on the weekends) and realized that my two
year anniversary for WLS is only two months away! Where has the time
gone???!?!
I had lap RNY with Dr. Lee Schmitt on 7/31/02 at Medical Center
East. I went in with a BMI of 42 and weighing 267lbs. I was wearing
a size 24 t-shirt and pants at the time. Now, some 21 months later,
I weigh 155 and wear a size 11/12...for a total of 112 lbs lost! I
even lost weight in my feet and went from a size 9 shoe to a 7 1/2.
Sometimes I can't remember what I use to look like. Then I will pull
out the old photo albums and try to remember, but since I didn't like
having my picture taken because I was HUGE, there aren't many to
remind me of my former self.
Would I do it again? Every single day, I would have the surgery
again. It completely changed my life for the better and I am
starting to tear up now that I have sat down and thought about it.
Yes, there was the hair loss and kidney stones (DRINK YOUR WATER!)
and I did feel tired a lot, but it was worth every moment of
uncertainty, pain or just feeling crappy.
I guess the only thing that I would like to say to everyone
considering or waiting to have WLS is that it takes a while for your
mind to 'catch up' to what you see in the mirror. I know that might
sound strange to most, but although the surgery, recovery and weight
loss all happen fairly quickly, your brain takes a little longer to
figure things out. Or at least MINE did. And that took a little
more adjusting to that my shrinking waistline. Be patient...one day
you will look at the calendar and it will be two years later.
Angela in Alabama
WLS 7/31/02
Dr. Lee Schmitt
267/155
We would like to remind you of this upcoming event.
Support Group Meeting
Date: Monday, May 31, 2004
Time: 6:00PM CDT (GMT-05:00)
This is the regular weeknight meeting at MCE. Doors open at
5:30, meeting starts at 6pm.
Hi Clem!
Thanks! It is just unbelievable, isn't it? Hope to see you at the next meeting - I have been out of town the last couple and am sure I won't recognize anyone by June!
Hope to see you then,
Selina
way to go Selina....Very proud of you!
Clem
Nov 17,2003
302/199/180
Selina
RNY (Lap) August 28, 2003
Dr. Schmitt
314/194/goal 160 [INLINE]
I have the support of my family and friends, but so many
acquaintances and strangers try their best to talk me out of this.
I'm expecting a surgery date very soon, because I have approval from
my insurance and I may be changing to another insurance company soon.
I had insurance approval in January, but I failed the psych profile
big time. I was afraid Dr. Azrin was going to send me straight to a
psych ward. I was REALLY, REALLY struggling with severe anxiety and
depression. I found a local psychiatrist and therapist who've helped
me change my life. You know the feeling you get when you're in a
store and turn around missing your child? That was me 24/7. I was
also diagnosed with Adult ADD. That was something I've always
suspected. When I was growing up, we had never heard of ADD or ADHD.
It's usually only the hyper people who are diagnosed, for obvious
reasons. They found the right combination of meds for me that brought
me back to life. So, the trip to Dr. Azrin was a lifesaver. I can't
believe that some programs don't require evaluations or counseling.
About that change of life... a side effect was I grew a backbone,
and my wife didn't like it. She moved out Tuesday. She has her own
problems, including an eating disorder and some type of obsessive
problem. We married before we knew each other well enough. The
obsession thing was great til I wasn't the obsession anymore. This
has been a lifelong thing. I guess she can't help it, but I've seen
her reaction to obese people too many times. I've suggested
counseling or psych help and that REALLY went over. Ooooh! You talk
about a death look, that was a classic. After saying this, I would
still prefer to work it out if possible, but her mind seems to be
made up.
Luckily, I have some great friends with sick days built up and two
sons to help me through the surgery. My wife says she'll take off to
stay with me in the hospital, but knowing how she feels about me, I'd
rather she didn't. I really want to wake up with people who love me.
I guess it's a matter of her saving face. She cares far too much
about what people think of her. I better stop right here, because
this is beginning to sound like an attack. I do have to ask, how
would you handle this?
Thanks,
Tim
my surgery is 6-8-04 are most people who are on the cpap machine
after surgery do they go to intensive care? also i live about 40
minutes out of b'ham and my husband doesn't drive and i am having my
surgery at mce if i have to go to ic will he be able to stay with me?
Has any one gone to the WLS site and put in your demographic info as
requested by Dr. Miles at the April Sat. eve. meeting?If so what do
we use as a user name and passport? I have tried but I am not sure
what to use so I can not get to the info part. I am told to notify
the site manager! Does anyone in the group have an answer ?
Hi Everyone. I got bumped up to surgery on Thursday, the 20th, got
home yesterday and am doing well. The doctor in my doc's group who
saw me had the drain removed, which was great news to me. However,
The place where the drain was isn't draining at all- we changed the
dressing today after my shower. Is this ok? Where is the draining
going?
Hey guys,
I have a question for the longer-term post-ops out there. Do you
have to take the antacids forever and ever post-op or does there
come a time you can quit taking them? I can't remember anything
about them from the seminars or classes and there's nothing in the
literature from Dr. Miles' office. It's bad enough with the
vitamins and calcium (not mention my prescription meds) without
having to remember my antacids twice a day too.
Thanks a bunch,
Brenda
Lap RNY/ Dr Miles/ 4-12-04
265/228 (6 wks post-op)
I'm not OVERWEIGHT anymore!!!! I've lost 104 lbs. and that put me at
24.9 BMI!!! YIPPEE!!! 6 more til goal!
Lori
well, i went to my psychological evaluation with Dr. Azrin yesterday
(friday, may 21st). Did my tests, waited for a while, did the test
with the nice lady. waited again, he was running late. I was called
back around 1:30 (my appointment to get there was 11 to take tests
and all). He went over some things with me from my tests.
My knowledge on WLS has improved (yay!--it should, i did a visual
aid speech presentation on it the week before! lol) I only missed
one question, and I just answered it too fast so I missed it. He
confirmed, that psychologically I was stable and everything.
Then he went to the papers I filled out at home. He said my "goal"
weight was unrealistic. When I filled out the paperwork, 3 weeks
ago, I weighed 351lbs. Just as I did when I weighed at Dr. Miles'
office. My weight goal is 150lbs. I don't really see that as
unrealistic, because I am losing weight right now from the diet
pills I am on. (i know, don't trust the diet pills, so I am only
taking 4 a day (2 at breakfast, and 2 at dinner) as apose to 2 at
breakfast,lunch, and dinner.
In the end he got his voice recorder and told me to listen to what
the letter to Dr. Miles was going to be. At the end he said, "I see
no reason why Frances Miles shouldn't continue the process to get
the Gastric Bypass surgery." So I got approved by him! Yay!!!
On another note, at the support group meeting last week I weighed in
at 343lbs. This morning I weighed at home and was down to 339.5lbs!!!
:D
Only things left to do are: sleep study, hear from insurance, and
get a date!
--Frannie--
All of my family wants me to have the surgery. I have had so many health problems for the last past year. Even the people at my job wants me to have the surgery and are very supportive of me taking the time off needed.
Diane
Selina,
Thanks for the encouragement.
Wanda
Hi Friends!
Wes and Lisa continue to sell very good quality protein supplements.
John Kosie has given you their contact information. Wes is very good
to accomodate your schedule for pick up and delivery. MCE also
carries the same products in their Apothecary Monday thru Friday
830am to 530pm and protein products (free tastings too) and
nutritional supplements continue to be available for sale at all
support group meetings. Most local health food stores also carry high
quality products but Wes and Lisa and MCE seem to have the favorite
brands and flavors. Overall you can save a little money here, a
little money there but when you figure in time and gasoline most
prices regardless of where you get it work out about the same. Hope
this information helps.
Hugs,
Rona
Your Bari-Godmother
Anyone know how I can get the nutrition class package of information again? I attended the nutrition class, but I have moved and I can't seem to find my package of information.
Wanda
Does anyone know when the next Tuscaloosa support group meeting is? We can't find it on the Internet anywhere! The only one I ever heard about was the one in February after a seminar in Tuscaloosa, but we were unable to make that meeting.
Thanks,
Jackie
Does anyone have a CPAP for sale? I have a friend that has had one for many years and is looking to upgrade to the newer machines. His doctor will give him the prescription, etc. and get the machine set. I was gonig to sell him mine for $200, but I'm not sure that I'm ready to give it up.
Pat
Dr. Schmitt/1/19/04
311/250/145
Hello,
UAB has run an ad in the UAB Reporter (in hospital news paper) about a Clinical trial for patients that are about to have WLS.
It is a study on the effects of bariatric surgery in metabolism. It is for PRE OP patients only. I saw the ad and called about it. I am almost 4 months post-op. And they need baselines before surgery. I thought if any of you PRE-OPs were interested in checking it out I would post the number. I didn't get all the details since I was not eligible. But there is compensation !! The number is 205-975-8217, ask for Myriam.
thanks,
Kim
Hi Everyone,
My name is Wanda and I have not been scheduled for my surgury yet. I was scheduled once in March and I chickened out. I have done everything but now I have to have another release from my primary Doctor and My pulmonary doctor whom I have not been to in over a year. I think one of the reasons I changed my mind was because I had too much time to have negative thoughts, friends and family did not help the situation. But, this time around I have postively made my mind up and just asked for my family's support and prayers. My doctor is Dr. Miles and I am really looking forward to my new date. I have too appointments next week to get my final release letters hopefully I will receive my date sometime in June. Please keep me in your prayers as I go through this process and the surgury.
Wanda
I had my surgery about a week ago. My husband went to the last
meeting and purchased several extreme smoothies in a can. I like
those better that the powder you mix up. I liked the praline
drink.....Does anyone know where I can purchase more of this flavor?
Does anyone other than MCE or thegroup sell these? Thanks!!
Thanks to everyone for their suggestions! I'm glad that you mentioned slippers. (I don't wear them at home.....I'm barefoot all the time.) I have compiled the list below for anyone who wanted to see it all in one spot.
Brandi, I might stop by to visit you before my surgery if it isn't too early. Would that be ok? Good luck!
I have to go tomorrow and get the filter put in to help catch any blood clots. I have had them before after my son's birth and we have a family history. :( Has anyone had the filter done? I talked to my friend's mother who has had an arteriogram and she said that it was probably similar to that. Really nothing to worry about. (I hope.)
My thanks to you all again for the great suggestions!
Warmly,
Julie
Hi everyone!
I am pre-op and have been lurking in the shadows reading everyone's posts and have learned a bunch. Thanks to you all! Now that I have a date --5/27/04-- I can't seem to remember anything that I have read. :o) Just kidding. I can remember some but not this.........What are some things that you would recommend taking to the hospital with you that you didn't know about before hand? I have a friend that told me to bring a pillow for my belly for the hour drive home and comfortable clothes. She also said not to worry about PJ's. She just wore two XXXXXXXXXXLarge gowns.....one the right way and the other backwards. Do any of you have any pearls of wisdom such as this? I would appreciate anything you can tell me that would make my stay easier.
Thanks a bunch!
Warmly,
Julie
hey everyone,
i just joined the group today and i need some suggestions.
i was told to lose between 15 and 20 pounds in order to have my
surgery. i am down 10 pounds but cannot seem to drop the last few
pounds. any suggestions. i need to lose te weight within the next
2 weeks or so.
thanks for any help you can give.
I just talked to Debra, and I'm first surgery on June 21!!!!!!!!!
My time has come!!
Stephanie
Hey guys,
I have never been sick , felt bad or weak.
my surgury was april 22 and i have lose 49 pounds as of today.
seem to be doing great. is the weight loss amount normal for this
stage?
If you call The Hampton Inn mention the MCE discount and they will
give you a discounted rate. Some of my family has stayed there pretty
reasonable after discount.
"The ChanMan"
Dear friends and family,
Stacy Randle has came out of surgery fine. She is in Medical Center East in room 662. She very much appreciates all the prayers that went up for her today. Please continue as this next few weeks will be hard for her.
Thanks for all you guys do,
Sherryl Isley
Hey,
Today @ Medical Center East, a new friend of mine I met @ the church @ Bradford Road is having Gastric Bypass surgery. She is Dr, Miles 2nd case today. Please be in prayer for her and if you can send her a email of support if you think of it. Her name is Stacy Randle. Her email address is: Srandle@....
Please remember her in your prayers today,
Sherryl Isley
I had my surgery wed. & came home fri. the only problem i have been
having is with the drain. it constantly leaks and when i try to
squeeze the fluids into the bulb, it sends air back into my stomach
causing acute pain. the air and gas has been much more painful than
the surgery. i almost went back to the hospital today it was so
painful. has anyone had this problem? I've had no nauseau and the
incisions are all fine, it's just the drain. Please help!
Hello everyone, i hope you all are having a great day. I was hoping that you all could help me. I am 15 mo. out and feeling really good. I have been exercising somewhat but have wanted to up my activity a little. I started walking after work and i have done it for the past two days. the problem is once i hit the half mile mark and start to ich and tinckle( which i though was a good thing) soon after i feel very nausues to the point that i have to stop. My heart rate is not very high at this point i dont feel tires and i am not even sweating yet. i take my water with me and sip along the way. it is around 6-7 at night so it is not very hot. i really like to walk now and would hate to have to stop. so any help would be apprecated.
thank you
Toya C.
15 months post-op down 180lbs and almost 100 in.
does anyone know how long after you do the 2 weeks on the c-flex,
does it take for them to give you a date for surgery!
thanks andrea
that is if everything is fine
Debra just called and scheduled my surgery. It will be June 2.
Mary Kay
mystical_hope <misstripgit@...
There seem to be a lot of posts lately about time frames (This is
for you too Fran...it was great meeting you this morning!!)
Many of us have done it in different ways. I did my general info
session, and my homework. I then scheduled all of my pre-op stuff
(psych, PCP, ENT) before I even met with Dr. Schmitt. Then, when I
met with him, he seemed quite pleased that all I was waiting on was
a sleep study. Waiting for the sleep study was the longest part
because they had to schedule it like a month out. I had my sleep
study on April 20. On April 22 I had a tonsillectomy and UP3
(tonsils, adenoids, uvula and shaved palate). I also started
wearing a CPAP. I downloaded from the CPAP Monday (the data looked
great). I talked to Debra today. They are waiting on a release
from Dr. Azrin. They put me on medication because of a history of
depression, and they wanted to make sure I was good and stable
before releasing me for surgery. Debra said that if she gets the
fax release today, that I will get my date tomorrow, and we are
shooting for June 21.
This is not a short process. My initial appointments started in
March. Everyone (I am sure) will tell you it is well worth the
wait. We didnt get this big overnight...I understand that we are
all excited and want to get this started right away, but patience is
a virtue...the process is in place for a reason - and it is in our
best interest to do as the doctors advise. Just be patient, mind
your P&Q's (as my mother used to say) and everything will fall into
place as it should....
Many hugs and much love to everyone!!
Stephanie
Hi! I'm new to the group, and I need a little info!
I am waiting to hear from my insurance company to see if i've been approved - (Benesight) - has anyone else heard anything about this company? I'm keeping my fingers crossed! My doctor sent a letter with her approval to Dr. Miles - he or Debra is faxing it to the ins. company. Maybe it will help! Does anyone know how long it will take AND who will contact me either way - the doc or the ins. company? Thanks so much, looking forward to hear from someone!!!!
There seem to be a lot of posts lately about time frames (This is
for you too Fran...it was great meeting you this morning!!)
Many of us have done it in different ways. I did my general info
session, and my homework. I then scheduled all of my pre-op stuff
(psych, PCP, ENT) before I even met with Dr. Schmitt. Then, when I
met with him, he seemed quite pleased that all I was waiting on was
a sleep study. Waiting for the sleep study was the longest part
because they had to schedule it like a month out. I had my sleep
study on April 20. On April 22 I had a tonsillectomy and UP3
(tonsils, adenoids, uvula and shaved palate). I also started
wearing a CPAP. I downloaded from the CPAP Monday (the data looked
great). I talked to Debra today. They are waiting on a release
from Dr. Azrin. They put me on medication because of a history of
depression, and they wanted to make sure I was good and stable
before releasing me for surgery. Debra said that if she gets the
fax release today, that I will get my date tomorrow, and we are
shooting for June 21.
This is not a short process. My initial appointments started in
March. Everyone (I am sure) will tell you it is well worth the
wait. We didnt get this big overnight...I understand that we are
all excited and want to get this started right away, but patience is
a virtue...the process is in place for a reason - and it is in our
best interest to do as the doctors advise. Just be patient, mind
your P&Q's (as my mother used to say) and everything will fall into
place as it should....
Many hugs and much love to everyone!!
Stephanie
Hi everyone. Well I am two weeks post-op and have been ready to
return to work since last Wednesday. Low energy made me push my
return date back to Mon the 10th when I had some complications. This
weekend I had a close friend commit suicide. I traveled 1 1/2 hrs
one way to be with her family and friends and started having chest
pains. I assumed that it was due to stress and being upset.
However, I was unable to sleep at all Sunday night and was in severe
pain, sweating spells and when I finally took my temp it was up to
102.0. I called my surgeon and after spending all day in the
hospital yesterday in several tests, they determined that I have
pulmonary effusions, and fluid on my lungs. There was also points of
partial collapse due to lack of oxygen. I was given an inhaler and
told to do my breathing treatment every hour and to walk and
hopefully my body would absorb the extra fluid on its own. Has
anyone else out there had any problems of this type post-op?? Any
suggestions on how to speed up my recovery?
Hi,
Sherry said that it would be ok for me to post this message, so here goes...
I was hoping that some of the board members might be willing to share their
experiences with weight loss surgery (and other strategies too like diet and
fitness
programs, medications etc.) on my non-commercial consumer health site called
RemedyFind?
A little background. Remedyfind is a free, non-commercial and unbiased site
(not
sponsored by any drug companies etc.) that lets individuals rate the
effectiveness of the
treatments they have used for specific health conditions. I started it 3 years
ago to try to
find help with treatments for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (which I've had for some
20
years. I am now at about 80% of "normal" after a relapse in 1994.) After doing
the CFS
section I realized the same approach could also work for other chronic health
conditions
(including Eating Disorders, Weight Loss etc.), and so the site has now grown
to cover 25
conditions with some 45,000 members and newsletter subscribers.
Here is the home page of the RemedyFind Weight Loss section (to see all the
available
treatments click on the "All Remedies" heading) -
http://www.remedyfind.com/hc-WeightLoss.asp
The Faces of Weight Loss Surgery group is listed on this page (and can be rated
for its
helpfulness there) -
http://www.remedyfind.com/rem.asp?ID=4991
I am hoping to get more ratings from individuals who have had the surgeries -
good, bad
and ugly experiences are all valuable! Obviously everyone is different, and one
person's
weight loss surgery experience won't necessarily be the same as another's, but
my hope
is that certain trends might show themselves over time, and after hundreds or
thousands
of patient ratings. In the future we will be adding features that allow users
to
view ratings according to specific diagnoses and subtypes, as well as according
to
gender, age etc.. In the meantime, members say that it is simply helpful to
hear other
parent / patient accounts of what has, or hasn't, worked for them.
RemedyFind is free and members can be as anonymous as they would like - you
choose
your own member name and your contact information is not shared with anyone.
Some
200 treatments are listed in the Weight Loss section, from dietary and fitness
programs to
surgeries, medications, nutritional supplements etc..
Many thanks,
Brett Hodges
Founder / Editor
does anyone know hpw long you can be off work with this surgery. i
work has a nursing asst, and i have know idea of how long i will be
off someone help me!!!
thaks Andrea
I have never posted this is my first time. I am having surgery 5-14-
2004. I can't wait I am ready to be healthy again. Good luck to
everyone and say a prayer for me and my doctor Dr. Schmitt.
God Bless!!
Hi, I am scheduled to have surgery on Wed. May 12. Any suggestions
on how to have a successful surgery and recovery?
Thanks, Gail
Hi Guys,
Blue Cross says that I meet the qualifications for surgery! THis is so exciting. I have to wait one more week and then I can call Dr Schmitt's office if I haven't heard from them by then.
Mary Kay
Hi everyone, just joined the community. My name is Fran, I am 20
years old, and live in Tuscaloosa, Al. My mom is on this list too
(hi mommy.) I had my first appointment since 2 years ago (when I
first considered the surgery) I currently weigh (according to my
wonderful loving home-scales) 345lbs. However, Thursday at the Dr, I
weighed at 351lbs. Of course it was after lunch and everything. I
was told I had to lose 18lbs. before my pre-op.
Debra gave me all my paperwork for places I need to call and go to
before I can schedule a date. Unfortunately we HAVE a date I NEED to
have it by (I am on the quarter system at Virginia College in Bham)
and the only break I have coming up is two weeks in the middle of
June (the 16th-28th). After that it will be September and
unfortunately the school isn't too keen on people taking off in the
middle of the active quarter to get surgery (cause you will be
withdrawn) and.. yeah excused I know.
Back to my main point for writing this:
I am semi-confused on what the requirements are before you can set a
surgery date.
I know I have to do:
-the psychological evaluation
-nutrition class
-sleep study (even though I already had one done 2 years ago when I
first originally considered the surgery)
now my confusion starts at the seminiar and faces of WLS meeting,
are BOTH of these required, or just the seminiar?
..i've written enough for today. lol
--Fran
http://gothicprincess.com
Hi Guys
I haven't posted in a while but I still read all the posts. My name
is Kathy and I had surgery with Dr. Schmitt on April 18 2003. I have
lost 122 pounds. My starting weight was 255 now I am 133 and very
happy with the loss. My question is how do you stop losing I feel
like i eat pretty normal now but I still lose about 1 pound every 2
weeks or so. Also I am so excited because I have started a new job
with Tupperware and I know if I had not lost the weight I would not
have had the confidence to be able to sell Tupperware. So if anyone
else is looking for something different to do give me a call I now
you would really enjoy it. Thanks for listening
Kathy 849-7588
April 18 2003
255/133/?
Hi Everyone.
I'm Wanda and I am going through the final preliminaries before I can be scheduled for surgury. Anyone with some good advice for a speedy recovery.
We would like to remind you of this upcoming event.
Support Group Meeting
Date: Saturday, May 15, 2004
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.
MY DATE FOR SURGERY IS 6-8-04!!!!!! I HAD A RUN AROUND WITH MY
INSURANCE BUT FINALLY APPROVED!!!!THANKS TO TO CHRIS FOR ALL HER HELP.
Looking for members in northern alabama around florence area. I'm
just starting my pre surgery requirements. Just want to make contact
and start a line of communication.
who voted for me to win the EXTREME MAKEOVER on the Rick and Bubba
Show. Needless to say, I am thrilled and an EXTREMELY BLESSED! My
makeover begins Tuesday morning with my first visit to Dr. Dudney in
Alabaster to start my dental makeover! First things first! I can't
wait! Stay tuned at http://www.rickandbubba.com, as well as
http://www.obesityhelp.com, as photos will be posted of my progress.
Thanks again and may God bless you all!
Patti Williams
Sylacauga, AL
Hello everyone!!!! My name is Stacey and I recently had the GP
Surgery on April 5. I have so far lost 27 pounds. I am really excited
about talking to others about our journey thru this lifestyle change.
I hope tp hear from some of you soon.
Stacey
Does anyone know how to contact Tim Suggs? I have not seen or heard
from Tim or Joy in quite some time. My husband is interested in
talking with him about geo-caching.
Thanks,
Debra
WTGGGGGGGGGGG PATTIE, IM SO HAPPY FOR YOU ON YOUR WIN IN THE MAKEOVER FROM RICK AND BUBBA, NOW YOU HAVE TO PROMISE TO SEND ALL OF US PICTURES OF THE NEW AND IMPROVED YOU!!!!!
AGAIN CONGRADS WE ARE SO THRILLED FOR YOU.
LOVE
RITA
the voting ends tonight for the Rick and Bubba Extreme Makeover
Contest. I am one of three finalists and may be the only one from
Alabama...I know one of my competitors is from Nashville... All you
have to do is go to http://www.rickandbubba.com and vote for Patti
Moss Williams. I am 25-years post-op WLS (JIB). Sometimes I feel I
don't have that much in common with today's WLS patients. Your
surgeries are so much improved and advanced than mine way back in
the olden days...but this is one thing that you all can really help
me with!
Thanks so much! May God bless you all!
Patti
I made it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
100 lbs as of this morning.
Life is wonderful
Linda Chandler
Dr. Schmitt
surgery 7/25/03
284/184/?
I find myself getting really depressed even though I'm losing
weight. I need help getting my mind in sync with my body. I'm
looking for a good 'shrink' that understands the WLS process.
Thanks so much !
For those of you who missed the tea party - YOU MISSED OUT ON SOME SERIOUS FUN AND GOOD TIMES!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It was a blast!!! I feel like I made five new wonderful friends. Thanks Lori, Lena, Debbie, Teresa, and Jojo for the most fun I have had on a Saturday afternoon in a long time!!! Laughed until I hurt and can't wait for the next tea party.
Special thanks Lori for all the time and effort you put into making it happen!
Big hugs,
Selina
Selina
RNY (Lap) August 28, 2003
Dr. Schmitt
314/202/goal 160 [INLINE]
There is a shampoo made by nexus. It is called VitaTress shampoo
with biotin. It is for thinning hair and also is suppose to help
with hair loss. I am also taking biotin vitamins. You can get them
at Wal-Mart for around $5.00.
For the fatigue, I take 2500 mg of B-12 tablets. I hope this helps.
Julie Rollins
Hi there... I'm a new postie and was getting curious about the whole
malabsorption
concept. Do we know how much less caloric absorption we are experiencing? Such
as, if I am consuming 800 calories right now, how much of that is my body really
absorbing?
Does anyone know?
Just a curious gal am I.
M
Well I sure do wish that there had been more to show up for the Tea Party on Saturday. Lori did a great job! And we had such a good time. Really gave us all a chance to get to know the ones that showed up so much better. It definitely should be something we do more often! I had a blast and all the ladies there had a great time! Lots of laughs and some hilarious "conversation". Thanks for the good time ladies I loved it!
Wolfie
Leeds, Alabama
"Keep It Real & Off the Top"
Lap Rny & Choly
Dr. Lee Schmitt
Medical Center East
August 27,2003
349Pre-Op/336/219/200
I had the JIB WLS 25 years ago and I'm doing pretty well. However,
I need your help. I am one of three finalists in the Rick and Bubba
EXTREME MAKEOVER contest. I entered to get the dental makeover
which I badly need. Voting continues at their website now through
Tuesday, May 4. Just go to www.rickandbubba.com and vote for PATTI
WILLIAMS. You can vote as often as you'd like. I really need all
the votes I can get in order to win this makeover. I really need
it. Please take a minute and do this for me. I will be forever
grateful. May God bless you all!
Patti Williams
Sylacauga, AL
I want to thank Lena, Debbie, Teresa, Selina and Jo-Jo for making it
to the tea party. I really enjoyed our girl talks!
The tea party was a hit even though there were only 6 of us there.
For those who couldn't make it, I hope you can the next time we plan
one. We really had a good time talking and getting to know each
other. Let's just say, ya'll missed out on some good fun and
laughter.
We've started gathering ideas for the next one... Selina, remember
you are the one in charge of entertainment *wink*.
Have a great weekend!
Lori
I had Proximal/LAP RNY 05/30/03. Everything has been a breeze for
me-no nausea,vomiting,dumping. I am very careful abt vits & protein-
take sublinqual B12. For abt a month, I have had numbness/tingling
in both feet. In fact, last week I had alot of problems walking--
neither ankle bends well, but the left one wouldnt bend at all--I
practically "drug" it & it was easy to trip, etc. My PCP is doing
tests, specifically for B12 deficiency. I'm taking muscle relaxers
now--not helping. I haven't heard results fm tests yet, but if not
B12, she wants to do other tests--a nerve conduituity(?), or MRI.
I noticed a post in which numbness was mentioned. Anyway, does
anybody know if this is a common complication, what could cause it,
anything? BTW, I had severe club foot at birth-no ankle & several
surgeries in childhood to correct. So I have always had
pain/weakness in right ankle/leg. Was in a wheelchair for several
months 3 yrs ago--that's why I investigated & had WLS. So I am a
little worried abt this numbness---esp since it is on both sides
Hello losers! Can anyone give me some advice? I am 19 months post-
op and have been on a plateu for about 9 months. I have lost 95
pounds and have been stuck there. I have scheduled a belt lipectomy
for August and was hoping to have the other 30 pounds off by then.
Any ideas on how to break the plateau?
-Gwen
Just wanted to update you all and let you know my surgery went very
smoothly on Monday the 26th. I was able to get my drain removed and
be released from MCE on Wednesday. I'm staying a few days with my
sister. I feel a lot better than I thought I would. I think a
positive attitude helps a lot. Thanks for all your support and
prayers, I felt them and I can't tell you the strength it has given
me. I hope to be back to work next week (sedendtary job). Thanks
again for everything. I'll talk to you soon!
Mary Dail
4-26-04
242/ ? /135g
Hello everyone,
i was hoping that someone could help me out with this. i am 15 months post -op and i have lost 175lbs. for the past week or so i have had an increased appetite however my liquid intake has not increased that much. i am also itching and have light burning sensations under my skin. I have recently increased my activity by adding a 15-20 min. workout in the morning twice a week in addition to my twice a week 50 min. ballroom dance class and 2-3 mile walk abut three times a week. i have noticed that when i eat my food digest a lot faster then it use to.
I do tend to need more liquid on the morning then i use to and durning the day i seem to want food more then just drinking like i use to. and i drink a lot at night. i still drink about 25-35 oz during the day and about 16-20 oz in the morning and at night. which before i could simply get a bottle of juice or propel between meals and i would be find but not now. i tend to crave crackers or something solid. Well, i think that is all. any advice or suggestions would be welcome
Thank you
toya c.
Well I am doing wonderful! I have now lost 130 pounds and I have 69 m