Gastric Bypass Weblog

I hope not to overwhelm and not be overwhelmed.....I've been working
on getting the surgery for just over a year and had it 3/12/04. It
is the easiest thing I've ever been through (I've accused my surgeon
of giving my placebo surgery). My dr. & his staff have tried to be
helpful but the answers I get are so vague. Here I go.....I am 37
and weighed 237 - I had the laparoscopic Roen-Y (yes, I know I've
spelled it wrong). I do not have dumping syndrome and seem to be
able to eat anything I want. I'm NEVER full and pretty much hungry
all the time. I can only eat 3 bites at any sitting and have
no "pouch" pain but I do experience the throat pain (back-up). I had
lost only 17 lbs at 2 1/2 weeks post op. I realize I'm rattling here
but am trying to give a little background. I'm told that a "meal"
should last 20 minutes.....how can anything be palatable after 20
min? Even when I have the throat back-up, I'm still hungry but of
course cannot eat any more or else it is painful and/or I have to
throw up (have done that a couple of times). As much as I try, I
cannot do any artificial sweetners but sugar has no negative effect
on me nor do fatty foods. Is there anyone out there like me? I'm
frustrated. I'd almost swear that they just poked some holes in my
stomach but did not do anything. How long until I start losing
weight? Everything I read it seems people are much more ahead of
me. Yes, I can eat sugar but I don't with the exception of one cup
of coffee each morning with one teaspoon of sugar. I drink lots of
water and still fight chronic constipation which I've fought all my
life - I can control that by drinking at least one glass of grape or
apple juice each day - I wonder if I'm eating things that I'm not
supposed to and that is why I'm not losing fast (which I maintain
that if I could do that, I wouldn't have needed the surgery in the
first place). I can eat anything - I had nachos with jalapeno
peppers last night - company just came to the door - I'll be back.....

Subject:[Gastric_Bypass_Family] Outrage
Date:4/1/2004 2:09:58 PM Eastern Standard Time
From:phillips@...
In a message dated 4/1/2004 2:09:58 PM Eastern Standard Time,
phillips@... writes:
SOMETHING HAS TO BE DONE WE CANNOT TAKE THIS CRAP LYING DOWN.
PLEASE FOLLOW THIS ITS JUST NOT RIGHT AND I KNOW I'M A CONSPIRACY
TYPE BUT THE FACT THAT THE LINK IS SO FAR DOWN IN THERE LIST IS JUST
OUTRAGEOUS.
http://www.geocities.com/WallStreet/Exchange/3838/outrage.html FIND
THE LINK HERE AND BRACE YOURSELF THIS IS NUTS.

Yes, it's a joke. Read the article - remember it's April fools day!

yippee mary! you're down yet another more segment of the doctor's
balance beam scales, u go!!!
lori h.
23 grateful months post-op

I am the one that uses Nioxin and I love it. I am still using it and will
continue to.
Kim
twricci <twricci@...
I am almost 5 months post op and I am losing my hair. I take protein
and try to eat right but my comb is getting more and more full of my
hair and it scares me. I have heard althrough this that there is a
chance of thinning hair but my hair was naturally thin to begin with
so I can't afford to lose any. Please help!!! Does Rogaine for
women work for GB Patients? I heard another person here say that her
hair dresser put her on Nioxin and that helped. Does anyone know?
Tammy Ricci
Lap-November 11, 2003
350/260/150

SOMETHING HAS TO BE DONE WE CANNOT TAKE THIS CRAP LYING DOWN.
PLEASE FOLLOW THIS ITS JUST NOT RIGHT AND I KNOW I'M A CONSPIRACY
TYPE BUT THE FACT THAT THE LINK IS SO FAR DOWN IN THERE LIST IS JUST
OUTRAGEOUS.
http://www.geocities.com/WallStreet/Exchange/3838/outrage.html FIND
THE LINK HERE AND BRACE YOURSELF THIS IS NUTS.

Mary Katharine -
I am 1 year out, 155 lbs down, 15 to goal. I eat about 1-2 oz (by volume -
that's 2-4 Tablespoons of dense protein per meal, less if I eat veggies (which I
almost alway do.) I'll eat couple Tablespoons of vegs, then 1-2 of protein per
meal. Or a quarter - half cup of salad, 1-2 T. protein.
I eat 3-4 times/day, and drink 6 protein shakes (each with 30 grams of protein).
You can drink tea, but decaf is best, and not too much. Mainly because the
tannins in tea inhibit the absorption of iron, which you'll prolly have problems
with.
And too much tea can contribute to kidney stones.
Try to start weaning off the tea now, so that you don't caffeine withdrawal
headaches in hospital . . . they're a bear, and you won't get any caffeine in
hospital.
Sorry to be bearer of bad news . . . :o)
Rachel
From: VirginiaMountain@...
Subject: Re: Meals a day
Hi everyone, I have been reading about how much everyone eats after the
surgery. But, how much do you eat at one meal and do you eat 3 meals a
day or more
or less? What about the drinks? Can you have all you can drink of tea
and
water? I am a big tea drinker. (with sweet n low)
Thanks,
Mary Katherine
Rachel Hawkridge in Washington State.

My nutrionist actually told me to UP my calories because I was only
getting in around 500 a day. I think the recommended amount is
different for everybody because we all have different starting
weights/heights, etc. and some people have unique situations like
diabetes or high cholesterol,etc. The BEST thing is to talk to your
dr and/or nutrionist but here's what I've been told over and over
again. Try to load up on water and non-caffeinated drinks including
some teas count towards your water. Try not to drink WITH your
meals, drink beforehand. Also, and this is the big one, my
nutrionist says to get protein in first and make sure you get enough
calories/protein in or your body metabolism will slow down to
nothing AND you will also become malnourished. So thats just my 2
cents:)
Keep us posted on your progress and take care!
Bridget Northam

I am almost 5 months post op and I am losing my hair. I take protein
and try to eat right but my comb is getting more and more full of my
hair and it scares me. I have heard althrough this that there is a
chance of thinning hair but my hair was naturally thin to begin with
so I can't afford to lose any. Please help!!! Does Rogaine for
women work for GB Patients? I heard another person here say that her
hair dresser put her on Nioxin and that helped. Does anyone know?
Tammy Ricci
Lap-November 11, 2003
350/260/150

Congratulations. I hope that everything continues to go so well. It is great
to hear all of these success stories.

I had LAP RNY done at 7:30am on Tuesday (3/30) and I arrived home at
2:00pm Wednesday (3/31).
The only problem I had was the morophine. I had discussed this with
my surgeon prior to surgery and we made the decision to go with
demerol for pain control after surgery. Well, someone didn't listen
or forgot and they had me on morophine. After a lot of itching and
talking nonsense, my husband was VERY proactive and it was switched
to dalaudid (sp.) by early afternoon after surgery. After that, I
was up and walking!
They started me on liquids Wed. morning and everything has been
great! I just feel sore...like I did too many situps. Still taking
it easy and taking frequent naps.
Fluids are easy to get in and am only experiencing minor discomfort.
I never dreamed this would go so well for me!!
Tracee

I just watched the clip and they also have a lady on there that has gone through
it that just hates he life. I guess they will show both sides. I hope everyone
watches because I would love to hear some feed back from those of you who have
had the surgery.
Dora

Just wanted to give you all an update on my crazy Blue Care Network denial case.
A little update, I went through the entire grevience process with BCN and ended
up with the Insurance Commisioner in the state of Michigan. The state of
Michigan ruled to reverse BCN's denial, however BCN had 60 days to appeal and
guess what they did.
The grounds for the BCN denial was that I did not have three years consecutive
supervised weight loss.........So while I wait for my circuit court date I
signed up for a program through the hospital. BCN DENIED THIS ALSO!!!!
Is this not crazy!
Sheri
312 - waiting for my new chance at life

http://www.cnn.com/2004/HEALTH/03/23/stomach.stapling.reut/index.html
lori h.
23 grateful months post-op

http://www2.oprah.com/tows/pastshows/200401/tows_past_20040112.jhtml
this may even be a rerun.
I've yet to see a television show with an objective view of WLS so
this will be interesting.
~~Pat~~
Orlando, FL
252/203/160
BMI 37/
52 Years Young
LAP-RNY 12/10/03
Wayne English, MD
Ft Lauderdale, FL

Hi All.
What a feeling, it just keeps getting better and better. I reached another
goal on this journey. I am under 250 lb. I can't tell you how long it has
been since I was under 250. Life is and getting better everyday with WLS.
Mary A. B.
Lap 3/22/03
Dr. Steve Weinstein
Mobile Infirmary Medical
386-248-138lb
BMI 65/40

Pre-op my BMI was only 37.
Diabetes: About 1 month post-op I was off 2000 mg/day of glucaphage. About 2
1/2 months post-op I had weaned off all insulin before breakfast and dinner. At
3 months post op I had a visit with a endocrinologist who told me to drop my
remaining diabetes med, glucotrol, from 20 mg/day to 5 mg/day and when I
recorded three consecutive blood sugar readings below 80 to discontinue it all.
Yippee!!!!!!!!!!
Blood Pressure: has dropped drastically and have halved my Cozaar.
Acid Reflux: Have discontinued nexium in am and 300 mg raniditine at bedtime,
but it has been replaced by Pepcid Complete for the calcium, 2 am, 2 pm.
Sleep Apnea: no longer wake up gasping for a breath.
High Cholestrol: Have discontinued Lipitor.
I used to be hot ALL the time; scalp was always damp from sweat. Only one
episode since surgery, but that was probably due to an extreme blood sugar flux.
Im even chilly sometimes.
This surgery may only be a TOOL for weight loss, but it is a cure for so many
other problems.
~~Pat~~
Orlando, FL
252/203/160
BMI 37/
52 Years Young
LAP-RNY 12/10/03
Wayne English, MD
Ft Lauderdale, FL
Message: 16
Date: Wed, 31 Mar 2004 13:12:02 -0000
From: "kportell2004" <kp30spam@...
Subject: BMI 39
Have any of you post-ops had successful weight loss and a co-mobidity
reduction when you have a under 40 bmi and had to only lose 80 pds?

there is a cookbook that starts from day one of surgery for shakes,ect and it
was only 28.95 including shipping. It is called eating healthy for life and
you can get it at www.eatinghealthyforlife.com. it is a great recipe book for
gastric bypass people.
God Bless,
Robin, NorthEastern, NY
EDD- July 27th, 2004
IT'S A BOY!!!!!!
Mommy to:
Benjamin & Jonathan
(twin boys 7 1/2),
Madison, daughter, 5 years and
Wife to Pup 15 years (October 31, 1988)
Gastric Bypass Surgery-
October 18th 2002
Start-378, current- 246(pregnant)
goal 170 after baby :)

Hi everyone, I have been reading about how much everyone eats after the
surgery. But, how much do you eat at one meal and do you eat 3 meals a day or
more
or less? What about the drinks? Can you have all you can drink of tea and
water? I am a big tea drinker. (with sweet n low)
Thanks,
Mary Katherine

Go to the website www.bariatriceating.com and click on "About the
Book. It is called Before and After. You can go from there to the
Amazon site and buy the book. It looks like it would be of great
help. I am pre-op so any of you who know please step in if I am
speaking out of turn, but it seems like a low-carb atkins type
cookbook could also be used for certain recipes.

Hi Diana
I can't answer your questions, I'm just going through the process of the
dietitian etc. But I'm from Stevens Point. It's just interesting to see some
one from the area on the list. I'm having surgery at St Michaels, here.
Karen

Have any of you post-ops had successful weight loss and a co-mobidity
reduction when you have a under 40 bmi and had to only lose 80 pds?

well jodi, you didn't read my post right...read it
again and again until it clicks in your head that i
never was mean or hurtful to anyone overweight...i
have love for everyone even you.......nora

HI ALL!
First off I want to say I am doing good 4 months post op surgery; but have
some concerns. I have been experiencing some small patches of dry skin and
my long nails have dwindled to stubbles and my hair is of course falling out
in globs. I have been taking Biotin and eating jello and trying to eat my
daily dose of protien... But it seems my hair loss is worse than ever and it
has caused my phsorises (cant spell it) to flair up and usually the
medication I would take would clear it up in one day but not now... Any
suggustions would be appreciated.
Other than that I feel I am doing pretty good; I am able to eat almost
anything I want (of course within reason) and havent had a problem with
dumping. I sure wish we had a good cook book for us who have had surgery
because it would be nice to have different things to try and create;
although I have subsistuted some things and made some of my own concoctions,
but Its really hard doing all the calculating on what is what with calories
and carbs and fat grams; wow this is work this losing weight
thing....lol....
Well I hope all is well with everyone else and talk with you all soon I SURE
HOPE MORE SHOW UP FOR GROUP CHAT NEXT WEEK LAST WEEK WAS A BUST
AGAIN......(SAD VERY SAD)
Diana WI
498/421/250
Surgery date: Dec 3, 2003
Dr. Weiland/Wausau WI

Dawn
I am soooo excited for your great success!!!!!! You are eating way
better than what I have been told did they give you a list or did you
find one somewhere and where can i ge t your info???? I just had
surgery on the 26th and was told to stick to "soft" foods like
cottage cheese but no other ideas were really offered..... any help
or direction would be great!!!!!!!! You made me soooooo hungry just
reading your list.. whats scrapple???????
feel free to email me privatley at eyes4eyeore@... or post
THANKS
michele in dayton
rny lap 3/26/04
410/ ??

Hi everyone;
I love reading about everyone's success, and ideas. This group has gotten
me past a lot of my fears, and has encouraged me.
I went for my appointment with the surgeon, psychologist and the internist,
last week, in San Diego. (I live next to Palm Springs) I guess now they have
to transcribe all their notes and the surgeon will review and then give me a
date. They said it takes about a week. And the dates are about a month out.
I requested they put me on the cancellation list, as well.
My question is for those out there who had their surgery at Pacific
Bariatric in San Diego and had to stay there for a couple of days afterwards
I was looking into hotels and wanted to know if anyone had a preference.
I also was looking for Linda Wales, because I know she had her surgery there,
and Cherie, because she was set up to go there, as well. Has anyone else had
their surgery in San Diego? I would love some feedback.

jodi, is it my imagination or did u wish obesity on someone? that
was uncalled for & WAY outta line. my wish for YOU is for you to
try to spend your energy in a positive way.
lori h.
one of the moderators
23 grateful months post-op
reconstructive surgery pre-op

Nora,
Don't be so hard on yourself. About 3 years ago my husband was swimming at
the YMCA and a man said to him "I had gastric bypass surgery and it changed my
life, you should check it out." My husband was about 450 lbs at that time. He
didn't get hurt by the man saying anything. A matter of fact, my husband did
look into it and is now 6 months post-op and 150 down. The best thing that man
did was to say something to my husband. Don't fell bad about thinking you want
to save the other people and educate them on such a wonderful thing. It's a
natural thing to want to make people as happy as you are. Just be careful if
you ever do say anything, they maybe won't share in your joy and won't
appreciate your help.
Enjoy your new life
Colleen in NJ

I am sorry for posting about the topic overweight people.. I never sad anything
bad about
overweight people... I have never went up to someone and tell the about WLS. I
would
never. I just have had this on my mind for awhile.. I have know one hear to talk
to about
this in my family or friends. I have gotten alot of negative respones about this
topic. I just
want everyone to be happy and live there lives to he fullest. I was and still am
FAT and I
have never said anything wrong about anyone. Maybe the person in the store
didn't know
anything about the surgery. who know. I was just think wouldn't it be great if i
could talk
to her and tell her my life story and now. I have 2 small girls and yes i was
the ladty in
store with all the junk food. And now I am not. I get sugar free cookies and
lots of veggies.
I did this surgery to change my life so i am going to change my kids and
husbands way of
eating to. I am not perfect and I am not a mean person. I didn't post this to
piss anyoone
off. I will take a break from posting..Let the people who hate cool off... and
yes i have
gotten emails of people saying things about me. and they don't know me.... so
again i am
sorry.. One more thing I have 3 months post op today...thanks for reading...
Nora
GB LAP
12/30/03
291/225/150

I'm trying to get to the low carb recipes that used to be linked. Anyone know
how I can find them now that they have been moved?
Cathy
Message: 6
Date: Sat, 27 Mar 2004 12:26:36 -0800 (PST)
From: Amber rhoades <godskid1974@...
Subject: Re: Getting Nervous...................
Try this Cherie........

Hi everybody,
I have my 3 month post-op appt with the surgeon on Friday. I was
actually 3 months a week ago and I've lost 78 pounds so far. I was
wondering if anyone has any suggestions for questions I should ask
the surgeon---you know how hard it is to get to speak to the actual
dr. so I want to make the most of my appt.
I am going to ask him about the number of protein shakes he
recommends because I keep hearing wonders about them but on the
other hand I've been told liquids go through our systems so fast.
I've been having one every day and I seem to have more energy
although my weightloss hasn't increased. I'm going to up it to two
a day in addition to my 3 little meals.
Anyways, any suggestions on questions for the dr?
Thanks!!!
Bridget

Make sure you get plenty of water in and try upping
your protein by adding a shake or two. This usually
helps.

WOW, im shocked at you!!! I guess your insurance is better then some peoples. im
fat and i go to get junk food when i shop, its not thats its for me its my kids
and husband when hes with me he loads the cart...Maybe you should be fat again
and have people making the comments to you and look at you like your a cow, it
doesnt feel good, NOT only did you loose the weight, but your compassion for
others
Lenora <noratrulock@...
Hi all,
Ok I have a Question. When i am out like out at the mall or walmart anywhere
really. And i
see an OVERWEIGHT person. I think to myself "GOD THANKS GOD THAT IS NOT ME
ANYMORE". I know that sounds wrong... I also think Since I eat right and work
out all the
time I see people overweight and just want to tell them. That there is more to
life then just
snacks and foods. We were at the Commasary today shopping for food. And this
woman
my age. 27. Had a shopping cart of junk food, cakes, candy and more. I just
though god i
wish i could say something like hay look at what your buying and she had 3 young
kids
too. I hope i am not the only one. Sometimes i feel bad thinging this but. I
don't know. I
know i look good and feel good. I just wish every overweight person could feel
my
happnest for wanting to be skinny. I remeber before wls i always told myself i
am happy
and i don't care what people think. well now i do. it is so important to feel
health and look
it too. this surgery has changed my life and i am so thankful. I still have much
more weight
to loose but it will come off and stay off. ok I quess that is enough and if
anyone is hurt by
this I AM SO SORRY. I am a sweet girl. And I am also glad i did this for my 2
girls who eat
better too.
Nora
GB LAP
12/30/03
291/225/150
SAN DIEGO,CA

Tara---I had an open RNY 2-16-04---when i woke up in recivery all I had on
was some oxygen in mynose--but to be honest I dont remember much of recovery and
that is where I work---it was all of my friends taking care of me and i only
have a vague memory of it. To be honest the pain was pretty bad for the first
two days---but i was up walking the first night a little bit as bad as it
hurt. It progressively got better---by 7 days I was out walking at
walmart---gently--but there--now Im out 6 weeks and feel great---tons of
energy--no
pain---hang in there--you will do great---Cindy
300-270-150

A great post as usual. Thank you.
Alice hardestyal hardesty@...

Well, Touching base again..I am 3 and a half weeks out and it is time to fill
you in on the progress so far...I am down 26 lbs and starting in a size 26,
have just pulled out the next size smaller 24's to try on..they are a little
tight but they fit...imagine the shock..!!! wow how amazing..I had my three
week check up at the Hospital last thursday..everything is great and I dont have
to return for a month...They added additional food to what i can eat...But i
was eating eggs before my check up...I can have tuna on a cracker,,, eggs that
are scrambled with ketchup..Sliced tomatoes with mayonaise and sliced tomatoes
under the broiler with feta cheese on them..this is just wonderful...I also
have squash fried with olive oil and garlic and then topped with
hotsause...also just makes you think of heaven...scrapple..which i just love . I
can eat one
slice with a egg and i can eat about half...I am so into refried beans with
cheese...I could eat this everyday..I have a hard time with hamburger..as i do
not feel like i can chew it small enough to swallow..and i got permission to
have a baked Potato...Wow watch out Wendys...!!! I had 1/2 of a potato and it
was like heaven..I can also can have bacon...which really excited me...Low and
Behold...I would make potato salad...My favorite since childhood...So i spent
the evening last friday making my potato salad...potatoes, eggs and bacon what
could go wrong...well let me tell you.....I had about 3 bites of the best
damn potato salad and even called my best buddy to brag about the fantastic
potato salad i had just made and about how wonderful it tasted...She was so
excited for me...and within 25 minutes..I wished i could just die....I had the
worst stomach thing happen..i was hanging over the toilet wishing i could just
throw up for about 40 minutes..the bubbling that was occuring was amazing..it
was
so loud my 4 dogs were all surrounding me in the bathroom wondering what was
going on....im sure they were feeling sorry for me....I never did get sick but
boy oh boy i was wishing for it...and In my old life i would have done
anything to not be sick...When i regained my composure..i called my best buddy
back
and informed her that i would be bringing a large portion of potato salad to
her to share with her family...(of course i left some home for my hubby and
daughter since it is their favorite...I would never let my awesome potato salad
cross my lips again)
I packed lunch to take with me to my buddy on Saturday to spend the day
visiting..I took eggs and scrapple and potatoes with shredded cheese..It was
like a
picinic..It was fun to make lunch for someone else...My buddy is so
wonderful...She ate the same things i ate...and it made it not seem so
strange...Just
three times as much..she is teasing me about her turning into the fat
friend...lolol
I now take for meds:
b12 1000 mcg: morning and night
Iron: liguid 1/2 tsp morning and night
galbladder med : morning and night
multi vitamin: morning and night
the liquid antacid only until it is finished
calcium citrate: mid day and mid afternoon..
I also seem to be addicted to the food netwook..it is all consuming..I watch
everything with new eyes...I look at the ingredients and think...is that good
for me , does it have enough protein? This seems to be consuming my
evenings...and wondering all day if i have gotten enough food in...I can see
where it
would be easy to not eat all day...I have enlisted the people i work with to
remind me during the day...EAT!!!!! there have been a couple of days where i did
not eat enought and i can really tell that it makes me lightheaded and
extremely tired...so i really try to focus on eating every 2 hours or so...I
pack a
lunch every day...with sliced cheese, tomato soup, a shake, yogurt and sometim
es ham slices rolled with cream cheese..and i always have some to take
home..Most of the time i can eat small amounts of these things and i make sure
to
bring lots of variety..this helps me to not be bored...
So there you go the latest update on me....
Take care and I am so glad to have all of you!!!
Dawn
Lap RNY 3/5/04
291/265/ 36 BMI

Hi all,
Ok I have a Question. When i am out like out at the mall or walmart anywhere
really. And i
see an OVERWEIGHT person. I think to myself "GOD THANKS GOD THAT IS NOT ME
ANYMORE". I know that sounds wrong... I also think Since I eat right and work
out all the
time I see people overweight and just want to tell them. That there is more to
life then just
snacks and foods. We were at the Commasary today shopping for food. And this
woman
my age. 27. Had a shopping cart of junk food, cakes, candy and more. I just
though god i
wish i could say something like hay look at what your buying and she had 3 young
kids
too. I hope i am not the only one. Sometimes i feel bad thinging this but. I
don't know. I
know i look good and feel good. I just wish every overweight person could feel
my
happnest for wanting to be skinny. I remeber before wls i always told myself i
am happy
and i don't care what people think. well now i do. it is so important to feel
health and look
it too. this surgery has changed my life and i am so thankful. I still have much
more weight
to loose but it will come off and stay off. ok I quess that is enough and if
anyone is hurt by
this I AM SO SORRY. I am a sweet girl. And I am also glad i did this for my 2
girls who eat
better too.
Nora
GB LAP
12/30/03
291/225/150
SAN DIEGO,CA

It is a lot! <g
and my doc mandates 120 grams for his distals. But my weight loss increased
when I went from 4 to 6/day at 6 months out.
I'm still losing 8-10 lbs/month, and I'm only like 15 lbs from goal.
Rachel
320highest/305pre-op/165now/150goal - 5'10" tall
From: Shannon Breivik <lilcomfycouch@...
Subject: Re: Desperate in Virginia
5-6 protein shakes seems like a lot! Do you notice a
faster weight loss? On average how much do you lose a
week? Thanks for the info because I was wondering if
I should up my protein shakes and am wondering if it
will make a difference when I do.
Shannon

Rachel Hawkridge in Washington State.

Thank you for the emails. And,yes I'm sorry some appeals were
delayed by a day or two but my office is on it.
I was dumb enough to take motrin last week or so for a bad back and
it caused a bleading ucler. So I ended up in the e/r thursday. I
was released sat. And no I have no regrets. 3 strictures, 1
marginal ulcer and one self caused ulcer later. No regrets
Fight on
Gary Viscio
www.obesitylawyer.com

Hi Everyone,
I am rather in a panic and was hoping to find some reassurances from
everyone out there.
I am 4 Months post op ,and I have lost a total of 60 pounds.
HOWEVER, I am in a state of panic because I have not lost any
weight at all in the last 6 weeks. As far as eating goes, I
have light salads with chicken or tuna for lunch and dinner, and for
breakfast I usually have a low carb bar. I also exercise at least
3 days a week. What am I doing wrong?? has anyone experienced these
types of plateaus?
Thanks for any guidance,
Linda
Lap RNY
December 2, 2003

Verna- my worse pain was in my back for the first couple weeks. I hope
everything goes well with your recovery. I also found it helpful to attach a
pull
rope to the end of my bed to help pull myself up out of the bed. I also had a
wonderful friend that checked on me and helped me out when I felt stuck.
Dont strain to get out of bed!! You don't want to pull anything.
Jen
291/251/160

Cool little calculator... good news is that I'm slightly ahead of the
curve!
-ray

Well I had my surgery one week ago today. I'm glad to say, there
was hardly any pain. I mostly felt sore muscles. I have a follow-
up appt next friday. I can't say that I feel any different yet. I
am tired. I walk everyday. I probably over do it a bit. Not on
purpose. I look forward to hearing from you soon. You are all so
very encouraging to me.
verna
360-bmi59/???
on the road to losing!!

I can't tell by the numbers how much you have lost. You started at 450 and are
you now at 377 or are you at 250. I see these numbers all the time but don't
understand exactly what they stand for.

Yeah, you have a date!!!! This is how silly I am. I went in for my very first
evaluation and the office that I had to go to is in the hospital building. I
panicked a small amount just being in the hospital and knowing it was for me. I
have not been in the hospital in my life and it weirds me out. So I can only
imagine how panicked I will be when my date comes.
Dora

Reminder Reminder from the Calendar of Gastric_Bypass_Family
Weekly Group Chat!!
Monday March 29, 2004
7:00 pm - 10:00 pm
This event repeats every week.
Notes:

It is May 18th! I was not nervous at all until I got my date then I
got nervous REAL fast. I would like to know what kind of machines and
tubes you had hooked to you when you woke up in recovery. And Was it
as bad as you thought it would be? I am having an open RNY.
Thanks for all the help!
Tara

I guess I don't understand your question. You said you're down half
your size but at the bottom of your message you say you went from
450 to 377. Thats a loss of 73 pounds which seems to fall in the
average for 4 months out. Obviously if you have extra energy there
is lots of exercises you can do. Have you talked to your dr about
an exercise plan. Most post-op patients have went over a personal
plan with their surgeon and nutritionist that is personalized for
your own situation.
Also, don't forget that everyone loses at a different rate but
eventually the weightloss evens out after a year to 18 months.
Keep us posted,
Bridget Northam

hey i have one question ok here goes has anyone lost alot of weight
too fast?? i just wanted to know plz can someone give me some imfo
because im only 4 months post opt and im down half my size now can
someone help my with all this engery how can i burn it all???
M.Addison
11-04-03
Dr.Bustany
RNY -lap
450/377/250

soulnska,
I have lived with anxiety/panic attachs on and off for years. I take 15mg of
busbar a day. and use lorazapam for full blown attacks. I was fine and
excited the morning of my surgery. Up to the moment when they called my name to
get
prepped for surgery. When I walked into the prep room I had an attack! I
stood there and started to cry. i had a fleeting moment when i thought of
backing
out. I got a hold of myself, and just talked myself out of the panic. and
just moved foorward, and got undressed. It disapated. I am so glad I went
through
it! I have never felt better now. I am only 2 weeks out, lost 32 lbs in the
1st nine days, and feel ontop of the world!!!!
Don't let it stop you! Maybe you can discuss taking some extra meds the night
before surgery, with your surgeon?
good luck,
Ellen
very greatful surgery 3/15/04
440/408/???? 32 lbs lost in the 1st 9 days!!!! Woopie!!!
Your friend in freedom from fat!
Ellen Kahn
Tatouage Consultant
Tatouagedesigns.com
discount code: EllKah30
a message dated 3/29/2004 7:26:21 AM Pacific Standard Time,

5-6 protein shakes seems like a lot! Do you notice a
faster weight loss? On average how much do you lose a
week? Thanks for the info because I was wondering if
I should up my protein shakes and am wondering if it
will make a difference when I do.
Shannon

The surgeons that I am talking with won't even do the banding anymore. The RNY
has better success rate.

I think its just a natural process. I am using nioxin
shampoo and taking hair supplement that I got from
Walmart. Neither has really helped. I'm lucky
because my hair is really thick and I know that
eventually it will stop coming out and start to
regrow. This usually goes on from month 3-6. I'm
getting close to my 6 months, so we'll see.
Shannon

Difference between what?

Good Luck Tracee and you will be in my prayers.
God Bless,
Robin, NorthEastern, NY
EDD- July 27th, 2004
IT'S A BOY!!!!!!
Mommy to:
Benjamin & Jonathan
(twin boys 7 1/2),
Madison, daughter, 5 years and
Wife to Pup 15 years (October 31, 1988)
Gastric Bypass Surgery-
October 18th 2002
Start-378, current- 246(pregnant)
goal 170 after baby :)

Congratulations Carol,
It's exciting to hit a new milestone isn't it!
You've lost over a hundred pounds in 5 months---good job!
Keep us posted,
Bridget

WOW!!!! How very exciting. I can't wait to be in your shoes. Good luck.

Hi Paulapdls,
Here's a cool site to answer your losing weight question. You put in your
weight and the months since surgery and it tells you about how many pounds you
should have lost. Check it out. http://clos.net/predict-wt-loss.htm
Hope this helps.....but remember we are all different
Colleen

Drum roll please.....I broke the 300 pound marker...had to step on the scale 3
or 4 times to make sure my eyes weren't deceiving me...and low and behold it is
not some cruel joke...it may only be 299.5, but under 300 nonetheless....I
haven't seen under 300 in about 9 years...woo hoo! 250 here I come!
Carol Matar
Post Op 10-31-03
Lap RNY Dr. Naaman
405/299.5/135
Carol Matar

CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!
Alice hardestyal hardesty@...

I can't believe it's already here!! Clear liquids today and I'm off
to the hospital first thing in the morning!! I'm anxious and
terrified...but I'm so ready...let's ROCK AND ROLL!!!
Tracee

I have my psych. eval. scheduled...I really excited...I cant believe
I actually am getting closer to my surgery.

Well, I had my psych eval on this past Friday. It was approx. 840
questions! But, after taking the test and having an appt. with the
psychologist, I PASSED! Those of you that answered my question last
week were right, it wasn't a big deal, nor were my life
circumstances made a big deal. My surgeon will have the results
before I can get in for my consult(5-7-04)! I am excited...and like
others, want to keep this ball rolling as fast as possible...I want
to begin my new life! I know it will be scarey the day I voluntarily
lie down on that table, but we must face our fears, right?! At his
seminar, the surgeon said there is a 6-month wait after insurance
approval - guess he has a long waiting list. But, maybe he'll have a
cancellation and I can get in this summer, as I am a student and
don't want to mess up my schooling. Keep your fingers crossed for me.
smartercookie2004
289/?
WLS in process

Well i new to this group and am still nervous about having had this
done. I have lost 48 pounds so far. I am just looking for any extra
info to help make this a successful weight loss. how do you know if
you are lossing to slow or fast? I always worry. but i guess its
trial and eror on what work you. it's nice to know that there are so
many people who are having this and have the same thoughts and
worries and it's nice that there are on line support groups. I'd
rather not have to travel to the support group cause it's not close
to home ( the one at the hospital that i had the surgery at). I
think it is great how everyone is doing with the surgery way to go.
thank for being there everyone.

Dear Mary, Welcome to the group. I had my surgery Nov. 24th, 2003. I had mine
open which means I have a scar from between my breast to my navel. I was very
sick at first. It is four months now and just started feeling better a couple
of months ago.. There are alot of people who have had it and they feel great
after surgery. I guess it just depends on the person. Good luck!!! Cindy
VirginiaMountain@... wrote:Hi everyone, my name is Mary Katherine. I am from
Texas. I have been a larger
person all my life. I have been thinking of having the gastric bypass. I have
so many questions about it. Like how big is the cut, how long was you off
from work, did anyone get sick after the surgery?
Thanks for the help.
Mary Katherine

Could you get your records from your old doctor. He had to weigh you
periodically. You could then maybe go back and write a journal with approximate
dates to coincide with the doctor weights on everytime you tried the Atkins, low
fat, slimfast, etc. Just do the best you can to document all the diets that
you have tried and gained back over the years.

Hi everyone, my name is Mary Katherine. I am from Texas. I have been a larger
person all my life. I have been thinking of having the gastric bypass. I have
so many questions about it. Like how big is the cut, how long was you off
from work, did anyone get sick after the surgery?
Thanks for the help.
Mary Katherine

Hi everyone!
It's an honor to finally "speak" with you. I've been exploring your website for
a few months now and I've found it to be a great source of advice and
information. However one situation that I'm facing does not quite seem to be
covered and I was wondering if you could provide me with your opinion if you
have the time. I'm 31, 5"3 and 235. I have a bad left knee; arthritis in my
left ankle, shortness of breath, back pain from a herniated disc (had surgery
for it, but am in pain everyday of my life.) In short, I sound like a perfect
candidate. HOWEVER.
My insurance requires that I have 5 years of documentation of medically
supervised weight loss. But I've never had an insurance plan that would ever
cover it. I could never afford the cost of optifast or anything like it. It's
so frustrating, because the insurance company is essentially setting me up for
failure. "You can't have the medically supervised weight loss, but you can't
have the bariatric surgery without it."
To complicate matters every time I spoke to my PCP about weight loss and for
some help I was brushed aside with advice to "eat less, exercise more". I
eventually stopped going to the doctors I had been seeing since I was 5 years
old, b/c of this frustrating attitude. I mean, I KNOW to eat less and exercise
more. And God knows I've been on every non-medical supervised diet out there.
But what my brain knows wasn't translating to my body. I've not seen those
doctors for at least 4 years and have moved out of the area. I'm now in
Northern Virginia near D.C. (the coldest, rudest place EVER) and am still in the
process of finding a PCP that I'm comfortable with. I'm missing this one piece,
and it seems to be the most important piece of all.
I guess now that I've decided I want the surgery, I want the process to go
forward right away. Like I said, I'm 31 and I want to have a family. And I
know with my back will just not support the weight of a pregnancy. I'm scared to
death that the insurance company is going to make me wait 5 years and I will be
36 or more (since they don't want you to get pregnant for a while after the
surgery) before I can have children, if I can even have them by then. What are
your suggestions?
Sorry to ramble so, but I really don't have anyone else I can ask for advice.
Thank you so so much for helping me.
Eliza B. (1973)

Hey gang, what is the difference in reality between the two, I mean,
right now we are doing the RNY on me but I just want to be sure, I
am doing whats best for me. So for the post ops, if you dont mind,
whats the real deal between the two? I hate to be confused but
after reading and reading, i just thought I would ask?

Hi! I've only posted here once but I read the postings about once a
week through my email. When I was reading it today I noticed that
there is someone named Cherivard (sp) from Bakersfield and also has
a May surgery date. I tried to email you Cheri but it came back as
undeliverable. Anyway, suffice it to say I was excited to see
another Bakersfield person scheduled for surgery in May.
Although I have a surgery date, I've yet to have all of my testing
done. The only Doctor appt I've had is with sleep and lung
specialist to rule out sleep apnea. My appt with the internist is
next week and the abdominal ultrasound and upper GI is scheduled for
the following week. Has anyone else had the experience of being
scheduled for surgery before the tests were done?
I've already scheduled the time off since I have my surgery date.
I'm excited, nervous and scared, but also concerned that something
will come up in my testing that will prevent me from having the
surgery.
I should also mention that I have panic and anxiety disorder but my
doctor didn't think that would be a problem. I'm just wondering if
the psych will feel the same. Does/Has anyone else out there
had/have anxiety/panic disorder and if so how did it play into your
surgery?
I just have one other question. Are there any other Bakersfield
people out there who have had the surgery done (or are scheduled to
have it done) in Bakersfield?
I'm typing this fast so please forgive the typos.
I'd appreciate any and all imput. Thanks!

Reminder Reminder from the Calendar of Gastric_Bypass_Family
Cleveland Clinic (Weston, FL) meeting
Monday March 29, 2004
5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
This event repeats on the last Monday of every month.
Event Location: conference room
Notes:
email wlslori@... for more info/directions

Hi, Brenda -
I'm a little over 1 year out, 320high/305pre-op/165now/150goal, 5'10" tall.
I've still got to get to goal, endure bounceback, and maintain. And part of the
reason you should check out VitaLady.com is that she had her surgery about the
same time you did, went thru all the nutritional deficiencies, learned about
protein supps and vites, and has maintained fantastically. At about 112. Of
course she's only 5' and a little bit of nothin'.
She has about 80 different types/brands/flavors of protein. I use mostly whey
protein concentrates (like Stack, ProPlete, or SciFit), as I find these provide
greater appetite control and satiety. I do drink some isolates (nectar), but my
mainstays are concentrates.
Good luck to you . . . and good protein! :o)
Rachel
<< From: "bjbodywork" <bjbodywork@...
Subject: Re: Desperate in Virginia
Thanks Rachel, How much did you weigh and how far have you come?
Brenda

For constipation I started using Benefiber--it mixes in anything and has no
taste---i use a tbls once or twice a day and it has helped alot. By the way--I
was the one complaining about my slow weight loss. I went to see my surgeon
the other day--he told me that I had the densest fat he has ever
seen---lol--it figures. Anyway--he said that my fat had no water to be seen
like most
everyone elses he has seen---and that it may be a little harder to get my weight
off--that it was going to take being vigilent about exercise too--so I have
been walking 2 miles a day and it is coming off slow but sure----Cindy
Open RNY 2-16-04
300/270/150

In a message dated 3/27/2004 9:57:20 AM Pacific Standard Time,

In a message dated 3/24/2004 10:49:02 AM Pacific Standard Time,

Thanks Faith, I was never given any post-op information back when I
had my surgery. I did baby food, mashed potatoes, tomatoe soups,
etc. They didn't have the information out in 1995 that they do now.
Do you know if there is a book in the book stores that address all
the issues associated with the gastric by-pass? I have been getting
very helpful information from these postings and links.
Brenda

I received this link from obesity help and wanted to share it with
all of you! It is a petition to mandate weight loss surgery in the
state of Florida. What a wonderfully constructive idea! I don't post
often, but I felt this one was so important. Thanks for letting me
share!
Lily
1/13/03
262/135/122
http://www.ipetitions.com/campaigns/mandateWLS/

Are you taking any protein supplements? Protein shakes are a good source. I
had my surgery 11/24/03 and have been losing some hair but not alot. I have
heard of biotin,flaxseed oil or vitamin E for hair loss. Cindy
hisgirlforever27@... wrote:Hi...i had my surgery Nov 18th, and i am lossing
my hair really bad. What
can i do, i have a problem with my protein intake, meats of any kind, dont stay
down, and milk and cheese make me so sick to my stomach. Is there a pill i
can take? Can anyone help me?? i dont want to lose all my hair. Thanks Guys.
Amanda in ks
nov 18th, 2003
346/250/170?

Lori,
I'm glad for your fast and healthy recovery and your weight loss..Mimi
legalsec102 <legalsec102@...
Hi,
Haven't posted a lot lately, but I pretty much keep up with reading
the posts.
Just had to tell y'all that I am down to 153 pounds (as of this
a.m.)!!! Just about 23 more pounds to go!!!! Can't believe it!
It's so unbelievable to me. I can actually cross my legs
(comfortably) for the first time in over 20 years!!!!
For the first time in over 17 years, a man flirted with me on the
elevator in the building where I work. Don't worry, I'm VERY
married, but how nice to be complimented!!!
I am off all my BP meds now (after 20 years). I was on three, then
cut back byhalf and then when I started getting readings of 100/60
day after day and was FREEZING, decided to stop altogether until I
see my PCP in a couple weeks. I am also off my cholesterol meds.
Still don't have much of an appetite, but I can tell you that I am
doing tons of protein. Have not lost one hair!!!! I will recommend
again cuz I love the product that you go to BARIATRICEATING.COM and
order the PROPLETE GOLD. It is a delicious protein drink, comes in
several differnt flavors that I actually look forward to, so Ihave
one drink before I leave for work, then have a low fat yogurt when I
get to work and nibble on cheese in the a.m. For lunch I have a nice
restaurant in building with excellent salad bar so I take about three
bucks worth of fruit, crabmeat, veggies, cottage cheese and am fine
for lunch. THen i have a light dinner and a protein drink before I
go to bed.
I have not vomited once. However, I have had several instnaces of
eating too fast or not chewing and then getting very sick to my
stomach, for about 45 minutes at a time. I asked my surgeon for
Compazine, but he said "NO". Getting sick is a part of the behaviour
mod we need. When I get this icky feeling, I get these stomach juices
that come up into my mouth. It's gross.
I am not working out enuff and it is showing. I'm a FLABBY mess!
However, it's warming up down here in FLa and I'm going to make
myself start swimming this weekend.
I just inadvertently found out I can tolerate some sugar. Yikes! I
was eating the SF WAFER COOKIES and one day found out that I was not
eating SF and didn't get sick. That scares me folks! In my past life
I was a CHOCOHOLIC!!! My PCP had the surgery about 16 months ago,
lost all his weight, about 140 lbs, but has now gained back nine and
has found that he can eat more all of a sudden. So we all have to
keep telling ourselves, that this surgery is JUST A TOOL.
Have a great weekend everyone!
LoriB
LAP RNY 10/3/03
228/153/130???
I'm 5'2".

Thanks Rachel, How much did you weigh and how far have you come?
Brenda

Hi I had my surgery May 5th, 2003. My hair started falling out around 3 or 4
months post op. My surgeon prescribed trinsicon pills. Which the pharmacist
explained that it was a type of vitamin that had more iron, B12 and some other
things in it. I was not able to take it though because it caused me to have
worse constipation. I used Nioxin shampoo. I have read here that it doesn't
work. But it worked for me. I am now 10 1/2 months post op and I haven't had any
hair loss in several months. At one point it was coming out so much I was really
afraid I was going to be bald. It is still really thin (I can use one of my 5
yrs olds little pony tail holders and it will wrap 4 times around my hair). A
woman in my support group takes the Walmart brand hair, nail, skin vitamins. She
is 6 months post op and she has never had any hair loss yet. She started taking
them as soon as she could start her vitamins. Hope your hair loss isn't too
bad!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
hisgirlforever27@... wrote:Hi...i had my surgery Nov 18th, and i am lossing
my hair really bad. What
can i do, i have a problem with my protein intake, meats of any kind, dont stay
down, and milk and cheese make me so sick to my stomach. Is there a pill i
can take? Can anyone help me?? i dont want to lose all my hair. Thanks Guys.
Amanda in ks
nov 18th, 2003
346/250/170?

My doctor just told me to take milk of magnesia at bedtime to keep stool
soft. If that doesn't work you may have to take a fleets enema. As long as take
2
or 3 Tlbs. I am okay. He also told me to buy some "unprocessed bran powder"
and try using 1 T in morning and 1T at night. He said that I could just mix
it in my food of drink. He said I could fine the bran on the bread or flour
isle. Hope this helps.
Mary A. B.
Lap 3/22/03
Dr. Steve Weinstein
Mobile Infirmary Medical
386-251-135lb
BMI 65/42

From what i've read (i'm still pre-op) one of the number one reasons people are
always hungry is that they are Drinking with their food. Our surgeon tells us
that when you drink with your food you basically Wash the food out of your pouch
quickly..thus hungry very soon after...secondly, if you are no getting enough
protein (protein brings satiety and helps you curb cravings) and thirdly
GRAZING. You can put a lot of calories thru a small pouch by eating a little
bit all day long. I think if you want to get back on track I'd go back to
trying to eat as closely as newly post op as you can tolerate and see if that
helps..
I hope you find your answers..Its not hopeless..you only have regained a bit of
what you lost..get on the right track and take it right back off again it may be
a little harder this time but You still have malabsorbtion on your side so if
you are getting the right foods in and low carbs..you'll do it!
Faith

Thanks so much for all the response. The book I'm reading
said the seed form is the best due to the fiber. So that's
what I want to try to have. But, how soon after surgery
can I have things like seeds? I also read pumpkin seeds
are nutritous. But is it too early? My surgery was Jan
8th.
Thanks,
Kris
****************
Date: Fri, 26 Mar 2004 08:22:02 -0800 (PST)
From: Shannon Breivik <lilcomfycouch@...
Subject: Re: Re: Nutrition Question
I studied up on flax oil quite a bit and it's supposed
to be very good at preventing cancer, heart disease
and various other things. It has nothing to do with
the bowels, just overall health as it has all the
omega's that our bodies need.
=====
Mrs. Kris :-)

your progress is phenomenal, hunny! so proud of ya & thrilled to
share in your triumphs & milestones!
lori h.
23 grateful months post-op

HEY EVERYONE, IT'S ME AGAIN WITH ANOTHER STUPID QUESTION? WHAT DOES
EVERYONE TAKE FOR CONSTIPATION IF YOU NEED IT? PHYLLIS IN MONT.ALA.
2MONTHS POST 280/245/140??????????

Please go to VitaLady.com, read her site, and order a few samples of protein. I
esp. recommend the STack chocolate, or cocoa-moccachino. I find that taking 5-6
protein shakes a day keeps my appetite under control, and helps keep me away
from the carbs. I also eat 2-4 times/day. Small meals, 1-2 oz by volume of
dense protein, plus a few veggies or salad.
Rachel

Hi...i had my surgery Nov 18th, and i am lossing my hair really bad. What
can i do, i have a problem with my protein intake, meats of any kind, dont stay
down, and milk and cheese make me so sick to my stomach. Is there a pill i
can take? Can anyone help me?? i dont want to lose all my hair. Thanks Guys.
Amanda in ks
nov 18th, 2003
346/250/170?

Jess,
Pre-op jitters are quite common, almost everyone goes through them.
It's the "unknown" that is a concerning, but don't worry. Have faith
in your physician and the team he surrounds him or herself with and
the anxiousness should be calmed (a little...). Best of luck and hope
you have a speedy recovery.
-Ray

Hi,
Haven't posted a lot lately, but I pretty much keep up with reading
the posts.
Just had to tell y'all that I am down to 153 pounds (as of this
a.m.)!!! Just about 23 more pounds to go!!!! Can't believe it!
It's so unbelievable to me. I can actually cross my legs
(comfortably) for the first time in over 20 years!!!!
For the first time in over 17 years, a man flirted with me on the
elevator in the building where I work. Don't worry, I'm VERY
married, but how nice to be complimented!!!
I am off all my BP meds now (after 20 years). I was on three, then
cut back byhalf and then when I started getting readings of 100/60
day after day and was FREEZING, decided to stop altogether until I
see my PCP in a couple weeks. I am also off my cholesterol meds.
Still don't have much of an appetite, but I can tell you that I am
doing tons of protein. Have not lost one hair!!!! I will recommend
again cuz I love the product that you go to BARIATRICEATING.COM and
order the PROPLETE GOLD. It is a delicious protein drink, comes in
several differnt flavors that I actually look forward to, so Ihave
one drink before I leave for work, then have a low fat yogurt when I
get to work and nibble on cheese in the a.m. For lunch I have a nice
restaurant in building with excellent salad bar so I take about three
bucks worth of fruit, crabmeat, veggies, cottage cheese and am fine
for lunch. THen i have a light dinner and a protein drink before I
go to bed.
I have not vomited once. However, I have had several instnaces of
eating too fast or not chewing and then getting very sick to my
stomach, for about 45 minutes at a time. I asked my surgeon for
Compazine, but he said "NO". Getting sick is a part of the behaviour
mod we need. When I get this icky feeling, I get these stomach juices
that come up into my mouth. It's gross.
I am not working out enuff and it is showing. I'm a FLABBY mess!
However, it's warming up down here in FLa and I'm going to make
myself start swimming this weekend.
I just inadvertently found out I can tolerate some sugar. Yikes! I
was eating the SF WAFER COOKIES and one day found out that I was not
eating SF and didn't get sick. That scares me folks! In my past life
I was a CHOCOHOLIC!!! My PCP had the surgery about 16 months ago,
lost all his weight, about 140 lbs, but has now gained back nine and
has found that he can eat more all of a sudden. So we all have to
keep telling ourselves, that this surgery is JUST A TOOL.
Have a great weekend everyone!
LoriB
LAP RNY 10/3/03
228/153/130???
I'm 5'2".

Be patient... your time will come and before you know it you'll be on
the losing side remembering the preop frustrations. No worries and no
shortcuts, just keep focused on the prize.
-Ray

JESSICA,
YOU CAN GET RECIPES AT VITALADY.COM OR ABOUT.COM--OR DO A RESEARCH ON
GOOGLE---LOW CARB-HIGH PROTEIN DIET RECIPES...MIMI
cheyanne1113@... wrote:
Hi all!! Well, it's almost here. I saw the doctor for the very last time
today and next week is my surgery. I can't believe it's really gonna happen for
me. I'm excited, nervous, scared, etc. etc. I also have a favor to ask of
this group. My best friend had her surgery done 4 weeks ago and is on pureed
foods but, she will be going to regular food pretty soon. I was hoping that
you all can send me recipes so I can make her a book for her birthday. I would
really appreciate it. I look forward to your replies. Thanks!! :)
Jessica in MI
Pre-Op (april 2nd)
mom to Nate-5 and Maylynn-2
"if God brings you to it, he'll bring you through it."

it's the national institutes of health position paper on the benefits
of wls. check out the asbs.org &/or do a google search. best of luck.
lori h.
23 grateful months post-op

dobie,
Yes, I too also seem to be thinking about WLS very often. However, I don't
think you can stop learning. I have a child with high functioning autism
and you can never learn enough. there is always something to learn.
Heavenly Scents Candle Company
Vickie Smith
523 Dickson Circle
Sherman, Texas 75090
903-893-3833
website: www.heavenlyscentstx.us
e-mail: rasmith@...

For any of you who are currently pre-op or those who are post-op I
have a question. Am I alone in the fact that I feel that I am
becoming obssessed with getting my WLS? I go to bed at night
thinking about it. I am online during the day doing research and
talking with others who have had the surgery. It seems that it has
become my focus.
And great, I just got a call that I am having to reschedule my visit
with the surgeon until the 20th of April. I had an appointment to
see him on the6th of April and now I have to wait a whole month to
get the process rolling. How disappointing.
I guess that is another two weeks that I get to worry and obsess on
whether or not he is going to go forward with me.

HI Jessica....your date will be here before you knowit! Just take one day at a
time!!! Best of luck to you, and post when you can!!! sherri

CHANGING SIZE DUE TO WLS?
Get rid of the clothes you don't need anymore to
- make room in your closet for new clothes at your new size AND
- help other big women get some of your beautiful clothes at a price
they can afford
hey everyone the fat girl fleamarket in New York City from 2002 is
back and we're hoping to be bigger and better than before. and to do
that we need you! we've got lots of amazing clothes for super duper
cheap, but we need those donations to make this work
EMPTY YOUR CLOSETS FOR A CAUSE!!!
donate your unwanted plus size clothing to MY BIG FAT-TASTIC FAT
GIRL FLEAMARKET (on May 8th)
supporting the Nolose conference - the National Organization of
Lesbians of Size
We're looking for wearable clothing in sizes XL through 10x +
WHY SHOULD YOU DONATE?
- SPRING CLEANING MADE SIMPLE!
Toss the stuff you don't wear. Make room for the stuff you will
wear.
- GET A TAX DEDUCTION!
Support the NOLOSE conference fundraising efforts.
Last year over 1/3rd of attendees received some financial aid raised
from our first Fat Girl Fleamarket.
- RECYCLE + REUSE = GOOD!
- CREATE A SUPER SHOPPING EXTRAVAGANZA!
You know you look good! Help fat folks of all gender expressions
find fab fashions that fit both their wallets & bodies.
We want all sizes of plus size clothing, sizes XL and up, BUT we are
especially interested in sizes 4x and above.
If you have a lot of fantastic frocks in sizes 4x and above and
would like some assistance clearing it out in the nyc area, just let
us know and we'll send over our sassy crew to divest you of your
undesired clothing.
Questions? e-mail the fleamarketeers at fatgirlflea@...
http://www.nolose.org/events/fleamarket.htm
note - the fleamarket event is open to everyone straight or gay.
it's all about the clothes!

Note: forwarded message attached.
MIMI,,
"BE KIND, FOR EVERYONE YOU MEET IS FIGHTING A HARD BATTLE"

Hi all!! Well, it's almost here. I saw the doctor for the very last time
today and next week is my surgery. I can't believe it's really gonna happen for
me. I'm excited, nervous, scared, etc. etc. I also have a favor to ask of
this group. My best friend had her surgery done 4 weeks ago and is on pureed
foods but, she will be going to regular food pretty soon. I was hoping that
you all can send me recipes so I can make her a book for her birthday. I would
really appreciate it. I look forward to your replies. Thanks!! :)
Jessica in MI
Pre-Op (april 2nd)
mom to Nate-5 and Maylynn-2
"if God brings you to it, he'll bring you through it."

my husband and i had Unicare when he worked for ohio transformer and his policy
paid for weight loss, im very disappointed they are not paying for your surgery,
i thought they were a great company and was even checking into them as a policy
since United Health Care has that Exclusion in our policy, even wanted to take
out my own with them and they dont offer it to indiv. in ohio only group, that
sucked
jodi
Russell & Vickie Smith <rasmith@...
I just got word today, that I was denied by my insurance. They said it was
because it is not a covered expense on my policy. My surgeons office said
that seems to be normal with most insurance that's why we have to have
letters of medical necessity. I had three letters and my last 5 years of
medical records. I'm so disappointed, however I had expected this with
UNICRAP. Does anyone on this group have Unicare and if so how were you
approved? And yes, I am appealing.
Vickie
BMI 41 215
Heavenly Scents Candle Company
Vickie Smith
523 Dickson Circle
Sherman, Texas 75090
903-893-3833
website: www.heavenlyscentstx.us
e-mail: rasmith@...

The book I'm reading
Flax seed is an excellent supplement. I take it in liquid form or in
softgel. The liquid can be added to anything and it's perfect in
smoothies. You only need about a TBS.
Important Flax fact: Be sure to buy it from the refridgerator
section and keep it refridgerated. It will go rancid at room temp.
Barleans is a reputable brand.
Alicia
11/18/03
284/249 preop/188/?

i'm beaming w/ pride, my miami amiga! yes, it is possible to live out
dreams, u go, hunny! scuba diving, divine!!
i'm training for a corporate run, who woulda thought!! me & my
(former)couch loving butt!
((((stef))))
lori h.

time a moment to regroup & go full steam on the appeal! get 'em,
vickie! "remind them about the NIH consensus paper, bombard 'em w/
any & all documentation!
lori h.

a giant congrats for your perserverance!
lori h.

Quick question about nutrition. Im trying to prepare my
body for a healthy pregnancy (next year) and am reading
about pre-conception nutrition. The book Im reading
really encourages whole grains and produce, and things
like Flax Seed. Ive heard seeds and grains arent great
for the pouch. Im 2.5 mos post op, had my surgery Jan
8th. Is it too soon to have grains and seeds? Ive been
on 6-oz meals for a week now (though usually only have 4
ounces).
Thanks for your help,
=====
Mrs. Kris :-)

What is the name on your folder? I would like to see your pictures.

Mary,
Congrats in getting your pictures posted ;-), which folder is yours
so I can see your pix?
-Ray

i actually just met with my surgeon yesterday.i first had my weight and blood
pressure checked.he asked me if this is really what i want.i told him yes i
really do want this.i know partially the reason why he kept asking me if this is
what i want is bcuz last year in may i was suppose to had the vbg but in april i
had found out that i was pregnant and now im wanting the r n y.which is good i
changed my mind bcuz i found out yesterday that my insurance wont pay for the
vbg.good luck next month:)
christie
regina chrisemer <Lady_Bug_998@...
i have a date next month to talk to my surgen . can
someone tell me what to expect. thank you

Hi Kathy,
Have you been assigned a nutrionist? If not, I would definately ask
your doctor. Everyone is different and the amount of carbs I'm
allowed to have might be different than you. We all have different
heights and weights so that affects the amounts we are allowed to
eat somewhat. I was NOT told to limit my carbs to a exact number.
What I was told was to make protein my priority. The idea is that
if you eat your protein first you will feel full sooner and you will
not hunger for other foods such as carbs. A big thing to remember
is that wls patients DO NOT absorb the nutrients that non-wls people
do so it is very important that we make nutrional foods a priority.
Here's something maybe puzzling: I am just over 3 mths out and had
been getting in 400 - 600 calories max per day. My nutrionist told
me to up my calories so I would be getting more protein in and
calories. Remember calories are energy and carbs are energy which
we need. Someone posted that the body can only absorb a certain
amount of protein at one time which means if you are uppping your
calories gradually you might want to add variety to your diet too.
You'll find after reading messages that some people are allowed to
drink diet pop and others aren't. Some people can handle a bit of
sugar and others can't. Every dr seems to have a different
opinion. All I can say is that you should definately go over a meal
plan with your nutrionist or dr. since they know you best.
What is your typical meals for the day?

Stephanie I think that is great news!!! I can't wait to be able to do things
like that. Enjoy it to the fullest. Cindy
reevalyn12 <SaminaTyan@...
since I was 12 years old!
Just joined a scuba diving class at the local community college. I
have always wanted to do it but was too big for a wet suit and other
diving equipment. Now 10 months post op and down 110 lbs I am finally
in the water and realizing a dream. I am the oldest in the class but
I really don't care. For once I can be in a bathing suit and not feel
humiliated and like I need to go hide! I am sore in spots I din't
even know existed but even that feels good because I know it is
productive exercise. Who would have thought! Just wanted to post as a
note of encouragement i never would have believed i could realize
this dream in this lifetime. Even with the whopping medical bills
hanging over my head I am sooooooooooo glad i did this. Thanks Lori &
Sue for all your encouragement. To all those waiting and deciding
keep believing in yourself because dreams really can come true with
perserverance, patience and persistence. The best to all. Stephanie B.

Tonight was a night I have dreamed about since I was 12 years old!
Just joined a scuba diving class at the local community college. I
have always wanted to do it but was too big for a wet suit and other
diving equipment. Now 10 months post op and down 110 lbs I am finally
in the water and realizing a dream. I am the oldest in the class but
I really don't care. For once I can be in a bathing suit and not feel
humiliated and like I need to go hide! I am sore in spots I din't
even know existed but even that feels good because I know it is
productive exercise. Who would have thought! Just wanted to post as a
note of encouragement i never would have believed i could realize
this dream in this lifetime. Even with the whopping medical bills
hanging over my head I am sooooooooooo glad i did this. Thanks Lori &
Sue for all your encouragement. To all those waiting and deciding
keep believing in yourself because dreams really can come true with
perserverance, patience and persistence. The best to all. Stephanie B.

I just got word today, that I was denied by my insurance. They said it w