Gastric Bypass Weblog

welcome kim.. My name is Amy. God u only weigh 135 and are having the surgery?
wht i would give to weigh that much... anyway, i had surgery this past wed on
june 23. I had the laposopic gastric bypass, and i was up and walking the day
of my surgery. No complecations thanks to all of the prayers. But good luck.. i
am doing well, just hard trying to get all of my water down becasue i have never
been a water drinker, but i am learning to make myself drink it.. good luck,
everything will be great for you... any questions email me directly if you would
like..
amy
kimp160 <kdp1002@...
Hi, My name is Kim and this is my first post. I am scheduled for
roux n y gastric bypass on July 19th. I am more nervouse than I
admit to my friends and family. I am barely 5 feet and I weigh 135
lbs. I amj 33 years old and the mother of 3 children. Kameron is
12, Zachary is 9 and Journee is 4. My husband is totally supportive
of me here. Can anyone please tell me what to expect after surgery
and how fast did you lose the weight? My doc says that my ideal
weight is 95 lbs, but he sees me getting to about 110. I am so
excited about that because when I married, I weight 96 lbs.

Hi, My name is Kim and this is my first post. I am scheduled for
roux n y gastric bypass on July 19th. I am more nervouse than I
admit to my friends and family. I am barely 5 feet and I weigh 135
lbs. I amj 33 years old and the mother of 3 children. Kameron is
12, Zachary is 9 and Journee is 4. My husband is totally supportive
of me here. Can anyone please tell me what to expect after surgery
and how fast did you lose the weight? My doc says that my ideal
weight is 95 lbs, but he sees me getting to about 110. I am so
excited about that because when I married, I weight 96 lbs.

just always remember to walk walk helpsso much it helps you not to be sore
afterwords i have lost 122 lbs it feels wonderful i will be praying for you

Angela,
Congratulations and good luck. Time will fly by now with all you have to do
before surgery. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. Take care and
enjoy.
Laurette
4/23/04 open RNY
309/290/254/150

My surgeons' office called today and said I am totally ready for the
surgery. My date is July 23. I am sooooooo excited. I meet with him
and the dietician again next week to sign the consent papers and
such...Thanks for all the support.
Angela

NOPE!! Individual insurance seems to have no rules - they can accept
or deny whomever they want. I ended up having to go into the "high
risk pool" insurance group of NH. This is for people who can't get
coverage anywhere else. There are four licensed ins. carriers in NH
and they all said no way before I even completed the apps! I've been
blacklisted it seems. This insurance isn't too bad, though. I've
had worse.
Thanks for the support!
Alicia

OH my gosh I can't wait to be where you are right now.
Happy Birthday!! Can you imagine being able to shop
right off the rack? To be able to go into the Limited
or Old Navy? I would love that!!

Celeste,
First of all, I would suggest someone be home to help you
out for the first couple of days, but you should be pretty
self-sufficient pretty quickly. It will be a bitch getting
up and down at first but it's good for your recovery so it
may be helpful not having someone there to get things for
you. I would suggest that if you don't have a tray or
large container that you can put all your waters and pills
on to carry around the house, that you get one. Then you
won't have to get up and down over and over again.
Also, regarding the bathroom, it's been a topic many times
so don't be embarassed. Suggestions I've heard range from
buying the Bathroom Buddy to wrapping toilet paper around
the handle of one of your wooden spoons from the kitchen
and reaching through your legs. Also, a little more
compact (for your purse) and maybe a more hygienic solution
that I came up with is using disposable knives and wrapping
toilet paper around them. Then you can just throw away the
knife and be done with it.
Good luck,
Kris :-)
****************************
I am a single woman with no family nearby or friends who
can be out of work to care for me after surgery. With a
lap surgery will I have many problems at home by myself.
Also, (here goes) how does one take care of personal
hygiene when size makes it a strain sometimes even with out
surgical tenderness and such to worry about. I mean things
like going to the bathroom, bathing completely and such?
I apologize if this is too indelicate for this list, and
hope you understand.
Thank you,
Celeste
=====
Mrs. Kris :-)

I didn't really have trouble with it, but my trips to the
bathroom did lessen. I've found that when it's not, uh,
flowing smoothly, I just have to wait until I have another
meal or two and then I'll be ready to go. So don't assume
it's contipation, you may just not be ready.
If it is definitely constipation, try a fleet enema.
They're cheap and easy to use, and immediately relieves
you. And it's just saline solution so no chemicals or
medications to mess with.
I'm sure you know this but drinking lots of water can help
relieve contipation. I have at leave 10 cups a day and
haven't been constipated since I had surgery in January.
Also, someone else mentioned that they haven't been able to
stop going since surgery. I had the same side effect from
the protein shakes. The day I had a regular fat-free
breakfast yogurt, the diarrhea stopped. Some kind of
enzyme is in yogurt that helps, I think. The yogurt I have
is low in sugar. Its Dannon Light n Creamy (or Light n
Fit?). Id recommend the French Vanilla flavor b/c theres
no chunks of fruit in it. Only 10 g of sugar per
container. Its the purple container.
Good luck!
Kris
***************
Of those of you who are having trouble post-operatively
with constipation did you also have problems pre-surgery?
Just a question that came to mind while I was going through
some of the emails that I have printed off for my future
reference.
Thanks,
Dora
=====
Mrs. Kris :-)

Congrats again Kris and happy birthday...you're right, great bday
present :)!
Carrie
Lap RNY April 9, 2004
348/288/140 (begin/current/goal)
www.carrieburns.net

Thanks for all the congrats, everyone! :-)
I feel the same way as you would - overwhelmed. I don't
even know the name of stores that carry non-plus sized,
besides stores like Macys, etc. I'm still a wee bit big
for Victoria's Secret but my day will come. I'm an 18/20W,
20 Regular can fit but it's a little too tight so I'm
waiting a bit for that. My boss lost a bunch of weight and
gave me some of her bigger clothes. She was a size 16-20
Regular so I'm just starting to be able to fit into them.
I did find out that The Gap carries 20 Regular so I can
start shopping there in a couple weeks. :-)
My beginning weight was 332 and I am now at 235 but it's my
time of the month so that usually adds about 3 lbs of bloat
so I may have made the 100 lb mark already! To help you
out, I am about 5'7" and pretty evenly proportioned (except
I don't have much of a butt). :-) And I'm a 42C in the
bust (used to be a D cup but the twins shrunk). hee hee
Also, more good news, kind of. My scale at home matches
the doc's scale so I know my home scale is accurate!
That's always nice to know b/c I went to my in-law's last
weekend and her scale had me in the 240s. Talk about
panic! That's a big and fast gain! ha ha
Thanks again for the congrats. Tomorrow is my 29th
birthday so this weekend's shopping trip was a great bday
present. I think this will be my happiest birthday yet!!
Kris :-)
*********************
Congrats!! That is so exciting. I could not tell you what
type of clothes they even carry because like you I have
never been able to shop there. How exciting that you can
start shopping anywhere you want. I hate to shop now, but
I
can see how quickly I could become a shopaholic when it
becomes fun. You should be so proud!!! If you don't mind
me
asking, what do you weigh now so that I can get an image of
what that weight looks like. It is much easier for me to
equate weight with a size.
Dora
=====
Mrs. Kris :-)

Kris,
Way to go girlfriend!!!!!!!!!!!! Congratulations on your success so far.
Happy Birthday too, hope you have a great one and the bestest ever...lol.
Laurette
4/23/04
309/290/254/150

as of june 23rd i had my surgery and i was up and going right after i woke up in
the hospital.. i have upped my walking to 4 times around my block mind you its a
small block.. thru out the day.. for now that is all you shoudl be doing so as
to bust your insicions.. just walk and walk at a very mild pace.. how over all
are you? starlet
sunflower02742003 <sunflower02742003@...
i was just curious as to when is the best
time that i can start exercising and walking...
amy lap 6-23-04

i can sit down fine as long as i have some support, but like when i
am sitting at the dinner table, and at the computer desk, my side
below my incision gets a little pain like a cramp.. i am 6 days post
opt.. has this happened to any one else?
amy

i had it done april 26th and i felt fine. the only thing that was killer was the
gas. that was painful for about a week. would i do it again, definately. you'll
be fine.

You can start walking now. My surgeon's office says 30 minutes twice
a day. I don't know how long before exercise.

Health Diaries is looking for volunteers to write about the
experience of having gastric bypass surgery and what life is life
after having it. These stories will be helpful to those deciding
whether or not to have the surgery. We have one diary about life
after gastric bypass surgery and would love to have more
perspectives on the subject.
Come visit us at http://www.healthdiaries.com
We hope you'll contribute you story!

i just had my surgery, and i was just curious as to when is the best
time that i can start exercising and walking...
amy lap 6-23-04

Hi Maggie,
There appears to be a pretty wide range of upper limits. My surgeon
gave me an agility test. I passed. He said it was because he didn't
want to do surgery on someone who was not agile enough to do the
walking required right after surgery to keep from getting a
pulmonary embolism from deep vein thrombosis. I am 61 and scheduled
for surgery in 28 days.
Cathy

dora you go girl we always seem to have one person who
dosen't like it if the system doesn't go just the way they want it personally,
you told her the right thing and we all appricate it at least i do. shirley
Dora McCary <dora.mccary@...
WILSON WHO HAS HAD THIS SAME SURGERY AND THAT IS RELEVANT TO THIS WEB SITE. IF
YOU DON'T WANT TO TALK ABOUT WHAT WE MIGHT HAVE TO FACE IN THE FUTURE WITH THIS
SURGERY THEN YOU ARE ON THE WRONG SITE!! Let's don't start this again.

Wow thats the dumbest thing if they were the ones who covered it in the 1st
place. And to deny when your healther. Makes no sense. Where in NH? I was born
and raised in Nh till I was 20 then headed south.
Kim
5-5-03 Open
243-119-115
kanapal12000 <kanapal12000@...
I am so mad I could spit!!! My husband's company closed so we needed
to get individual insurance (COBRA is not an option).
I was declined for coverage because I had GBS!!! I am 100% healthier
than before surgery and have had no complications! What's wrong with
these people?! They said I could reapply in a few YEARS!!! It was
Blue Cross, the ones who paid for the surgery in the first place. I
smell a conspiracy!!
Has this happened to anyone else?
Just ranting in New Hampshire,
Alicia
11/18/03
284/249 preop/166

I am so mad I could spit!!! My husband's company closed so we needed
to get individual insurance (COBRA is not an option).
I was declined for coverage because I had GBS!!! I am 100% healthier
than before surgery and have had no complications! What's wrong with
these people?! They said I could reapply in a few YEARS!!! It was
Blue Cross, the ones who paid for the surgery in the first place. I
smell a conspiracy!!
Has this happened to anyone else?
Just ranting in New Hampshire,
Alicia
11/18/03
284/249 preop/166

boyi had no problem presurgery an just about cannt stop 5 days out.. starlet
Dora McCary <dora.mccary@...
having trouble post-operatively with constipation did you also have problems
pre-surgery? Just a question that came to mind while I was going through some
of the emails that I have printed off for my future reference.
Thanks,
Dora

Reminder Reminder from the Calendar of Gastric_Bypass_Family
Weekly Group Chat!!
Monday June 28, 2004
7:00 pm - 10:00 pm
This event repeats every week.
Notes:

Congratulations Angela. I was worried about mine too
but I passed with flying colors it was a huge relief

Of those of you who are having trouble post-operatively with constipation did
you also have problems pre-surgery? Just a question that came to mind while I
was going through some of the emails that I have printed off for my future
reference.
Thanks,
Dora

maggie,
i've heard of people in their late 60's having it. as long as the doctors
believe it is safe i don't think there'd be too much of a problem.
laurette
4/23/04 open RNY
309/290/255/150

May I ask why you feel your in the wrong place.
Kim
momoffour2010 <momoffour2010@...
Hi.
I just got here. And I think I am truly in the wrong place.
I appreciate the chance to be a member. But I am going to be leaving
the group.
Thank you.

Hi.
I just got here. And I think I am truly in the wrong place.
I appreciate the chance to be a member. But I am going to be leaving
the group.
Thank you.

Has anyone heard of an age deadline for surgery? My doctor said the
age is ?? - 55. Since I am 58, I was wondering if that would be a
problem.
Maggie

Congrats on that. I can't wait until I can be weighed on the regular doctors
scale. How exciting to keep moving that slide down and down and down. Keep up
the good work!!!
Dora

Kris that is wonderful, congratulations!!!!!! 6 months and 100 pounds,
how fantastic, I'm sure you look splendid!
Can't believe they didn't warn you about the meds before, there's a
huge list of things not to take. For the most part we can safely take
Tylenol products, NyQuil, and various vitamins, but I take NOTHING
until I call the doctor!
Carrie
Lap RNY April 9, 2004
348/288/140 (begin/current/goal)
www.carrieburns.net

I have an announcement. I can fit in regular clothes
now!!!!! I dont always have to shop in the plus size
anymore!!! Im a size 18/20 but can get away with XL a lot
of the times. I met my mom in Vegas this weekend and she
couldnt believe how good I looked. We went shopping for a
present for her sister in the shops at The Venetian and
when we passed the Banana Republic, I said Lets go
inside, I just want to see if I can fit into anything here
yet. I did!!! I can wear XL shirts there! So my mom
bought me a tank and a sweater for my bday. The bottoms
only go to 16 regular so it will be a month or two before I
can wear those. But by the end of the summer, my wardrobe
possibilities will be endless! I cant tell you how
excited I am about it. Ive never ever been able to shop
at those places before. Ill be a shop-a-holic before
long.
The really funny thing was that I had the hardest time
finding XLs in the store. All the bigger sizes were gone.
I always think of teeny tiny women when I think of those
stores but they get a fair amount of average people in
there because the tiny sizes were the only ones left on the
shelves. That really made me laugh.
Ive lose 98.5 lbs so far, my 6-month anniversary is July
8th and I think Ill make the 100 lb mark by then. My
follow-up with my doc is today so Im curious to see what
my official weight will be. Im not sure how accurate
the home scale is anymore, but I think its still pretty
right on.
I also received a list from my doc last week. Its a lot
of medications GB patients should take because they could
cause ulcers. Aleve, Motrin, and Anaprox/Naproxen are on
the list. I took Aleve last month for cramps and had
horrible pain in my chest and I thought it felt like an
ulcer. Sure enough, thats what it was. So Ill have to
get a recommendation or prescription today b/c I need
something for my monthly cramps, they get really bad.
Luckily, I didnt take any more so my body seems to have
repaired itself just fine, no more pain.
Hope everyone has a great holiday weekend!
Kris

Found this article. It contains the transcript from ABC news interview
just 3 weeks ago. The interviewer says how good she looks.
http://abcnews.go.com/sections/community/2020/chat_carniewilson030602.html

This is from a year ago. I still think she looks good now though and
have also heard the rumors she's pregnant.
Carrie
Lap RNY April 9, 2004
348/288/140 (begin/current/goal)
www.carrieburns.net

Ditto!!! When you are looking for support you have to take all aspects of the
conversation with it. I agree completely. I love this site and if there is
something that is not relevant to me I just skip it.

Ladies, please!!! I saw Carnie on television here in NY in a concert at Bryant
Park and she looked lovely!!! Not overweight. I'm sure she is doing just fine.
Dora McCary <dora.mccary@...
WILSON WHO HAS HAD THIS SAME SURGERY AND THAT IS RELEVANT TO THIS WEB SITE. IF
YOU DON'T WANT TO TALK ABOUT WHAT WE MIGHT HAVE TO FACE IN THE FUTURE WITH THIS
SURGERY THEN YOU ARE ON THE WRONG SITE!! Let's don't start this again.

I feel that lately there has been more arguments and petty
discussion. I feel that talking about family, friends, celebs, and
others who have had this is healthy. We need to all understand the
plateaus, discrimination, backtalk and whatnot that we may receive.
I come to this site for support, not someone constantly knocking
down this site and our support group. It pains me that some of us
have important posts and others are just wasting time complaining.
Once again, if you don't like this site, have problems with the
people or even topics, then LEAVE. Keep the messages important,
relevant, and interesting. We are all hear to support each other and
whatnot. This is getting ridiculous and I wanted to share my
thoughts on the posts for the last week. I love you all and hope
that everyone is doing well.
Bethany

WE ARE DISCUSSING CARNIE WILSON WHO HAS HAD THIS SAME SURGERY AND THAT IS
RELEVANT TO THIS WEB SITE. IF YOU DON'T WANT TO TALK ABOUT WHAT WE MIGHT HAVE
TO FACE IN THE FUTURE WITH THIS SURGERY THEN YOU ARE ON THE WRONG SITE!! Let's
don't start this again.

I NOT SURE WHO YOU ALL ARE DISCUSSING, BUT IT SOUNDS LIKE SHE NEEDS SOME
ENCOURAGEMENT AND PRAYER. I ENJOY THIS SITE BECAUSE IT IS INFORMATIVE
AND HELPFUL TO ME,CAN YOU ALL FIND SOMETHING MORE BENEFITICIAL TO
DISCUSS

I did hear this. My friend said she saw her on TV and she looked heavy
again. Anyone have verification?

i know honey,
it will pass i promise.i also had a bad time with my Jackson Pratt tube. it hurt
to i also has a little infection/rash where is was. once the tube comes out it
will feel so good. trust me. it is head hunger..you think your starving but your
not. try chicken broth from chicken noddle soup. try sugar free pudding. that
helped me alot...drink propel water. they good. i am 6 months post op tomorrow.
i have lost 96 pounds...are you drinking protein shakes..if you have Valinna
shakes add some fresh strawberry's or cherries. if you have chocolate shakes add
unsweetened coca powder and always add one packet of splenda it really makes a
differences..email me if you want o chat about it. i was just like you. and it
all passed. it will... Nora 96 pounds gone in 6 months
star evans <starbabyyy_in_cali@...
i am so hungry and i cannot eat till july 4th.. how did you guys do it. i still
hav emy drainage tube and that hurts .. have a rash from the taping... all my
insicions ache somthing awful , but i am more hungry than anything.. the family
are eating foods i love and i cannot eat bt liquids still... have any of you had
this problem.. i donot feel i had the surgery when it comes to food..cry cry..
starlet

I definately did NOT feel hungry after my surgery, in fact its been
months since then and I only occasionally feel hungry. What I
believe you have is what they call 'head hunger'. Our minds are
conditioned to want food (part of the reason we got this way in the
first place). I know its hard but try to have patience and I bet
once you see the pounds start coming off you will be soooo happy! I
would recommend that you have you family not eat around you right now
until you adjust. It may be the smells of the food that are getting
to you or the feeling of missing out. Also, this surgery is not
anything to take lightly. If you do not feel well you might want to
put a call into your doctor or nutrionists office and just check with
someone. That's what their there for. Keep us posted and hang in
there!
Bridget

i am so hungry and i cannot eat till july 4th.. how did you guys do it. i still
hav emy drainage tube and that hurts .. have a rash from the taping... all my
insicions ache somthing awful , but i am more hungry than anything.. the family
are eating foods i love and i cannot eat bt liquids still... have any of you had
this problem.. i donot feel i had the surgery when it comes to food..cry cry..
starlet

Staci,
Good luck to you on your surgery. Please keep us posted. If insurance falls
through I might be going the same route that you are and would like to know how
you are treated and if you are happy with the hospital, etc.
Thanks,
Dora

Jenn,
I am excited for you! This is the same excitement I had just a couple
of weeks ago when I broke the 100 lb. barrier. It is so great to see
the scale numbers fly by in the other direction. Make sure you
journal everything. It should be great to look back on when you're at
your goal and in that size 4. Live your life, with JOY.
-Ray

Mary, That's great. I know those plateau can get to you. When it happens to
me I think I'll never lose anymore weight. I hope I can do as well as you. We
seem to be close in starting weight. Cindy 11/24/03 316/212/145
Mary <dreamadream1985@...
now am 158. Not that big of
a difference, but I'm pleased!
Mary
March 11, 2003
319/158/130

I had the same problem for weeks on end. Gauze and tape really
irritated my skin after a while. I found a fantastic dressing
called MEPELEX BORDER. If your pharmacy doesn't carry them (mine
didn't), you can order them online. I forget the site...just type
in the name.....
They are silicone based and waterproof. You can even shower with
them. You change them far less than gauze and they are so much
easier on the skin. You don't even feel them! They are pricey, but
insurance may cover them.
Best of luck,
Alicia
11/18/03
284/249 preop/166

I have been at 160 for like a month and now am 158. Not that big of
a difference, but I'm pleased!
Mary
March 11, 2003
319/158/130

Congratulations on your date!!! Isn't a wonderful feeling?? I have my surgery
on August 2, 2004 and am excited, scared and just plain nervous. I will keep
you on my prayer list and stay in touch with us here and we will be rooting
for you.
Cherie Rivard
Bakersfield, CA
Surgery Date 8-2-04
decemberfemale66@... wrote:
Hello to everyone hope all of you are doing fine. I got my date for
my surgery it is schedule to be on August 5th at Baptist Medical
Center in Little Rock and my surgeron will be Dr. Clay Wellborn. I
talked with the doctor on the June 23 and was to have my surgery on
the 25th but since my Psyc evaluation got messed up and I could not
talk it that throw me to have my psyc evaluation on July 13 and once
I get that my surgery can be done and I did get a August 5th date of
the surgery this time. I have 232.1 pounds I want to lose so all of
you pray for me as I pray for all of you.
Thanks.

JEAN 50 LBS IN SUCH A SHORT TIME THAT IS JUST GREAT YOU ARE ON YOUR WAY AND I
AM SO HAPPY FOR YOU!!!!! YOU WILL BE A SKINNY IN NO TIME AND WE ARE ALL HAPPY
FOR YOU
BYE AND KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK
SHIRLEY OF FONTANA CA
allabtalln <allabtalln@...
Hey everyone. It's been 4 weeks since my surgery. I had my surgery
May 26th. I am officially down 50 pounds and I am feeling ecstatic.
I never thought I would ever be able to lose weight and cannot wait
for the rest to come off. I have not been at this weight since
before I had my first daughter 4 years ago. I didn;t know it would
feel this good to hit 50 pounds. I started at 339 and am not down to
289. Well just thought I would share my excitement. Thanks for all
the helpful advice it has gotten me through some tough times in the
last 4 weeks.
Jenn

Hey everyone. It's been 4 weeks since my surgery. I had my surgery
May 26th. I am officially down 50 pounds and I am feeling ecstatic.
I never thought I would ever be able to lose weight and cannot wait
for the rest to come off. I have not been at this weight since
before I had my first daughter 4 years ago. I didn;t know it would
feel this good to hit 50 pounds. I started at 339 and am not down to
289. Well just thought I would share my excitement. Thanks for all
the helpful advice it has gotten me through some tough times in the
last 4 weeks.
Jenn

Hi Im natalie..
I had the sugery 4 yrs ago..
i am about to have a thigh and body lift... has anyone else had this
procedure... I was just wondering what i can expect and how much
pain? and how long to heal..
please share if u have had it..( I did have my breast and arms done
1 yr ago.. I am happy with the results..

Thoughts and Prayers are with you and your boys. Listen to what your doctor
tells you and just take it one day at a time.
Kim
5-5-03
243-123-115
jquin3000 <jquin3000@...
Hello Everyone,
Just feeling a bit anxious and nervous...I'm sure this is pretty
normal. Anyway just want to let you all know that I will be needing
your support!!! I am a single mother of two young boys... Your
prayers would definitely be appreciated. Look forward to speaking
with you soon. Congratulations to all of you who have been
successful! Any advice at this point?
Juanita

Hello Everyone,
Just feeling a bit anxious and nervous...I'm sure this is pretty
normal. Anyway just want to let you all know that I will be needing
your support!!! I am a single mother of two young boys... Your
prayers would definitely be appreciated. Look forward to speaking
with you soon. Congratulations to all of you who have been
successful! Any advice at this point?
Juanita

I have had surgery on the arm and the gastic bypass. 10 tiny tubes where
inserted in my arm to allow drainage in the cast. And for the gastric
bypass I had a fluid pouch. When they removed my fluid pouch I was still
leaking...for a bettter sense of the word. Some nights I would wake up with
a wet incision. This is normal. Of course I was also told to keep a track
of how much fluids were discharging into the pouch.
Susan

Hi all
My husband woke me up at 2AM this morning because there was fluid
coming out of one of the incisions. We called the doctor and they
are calling the pharmacy to physcribe a anti-biotic. Has this
happened to anyone else? I'm a little concerned. The doctor claims
that this is pretty normal after surgery. Please let me know of any
experiences that you may have had that is similar. Thanks

My surgeon gave me my card. Ask them (or their office) and they should be
able to get one to you.
Tita
Dr English
Ft Lauderdale
39 yrs young
275/215/140

DRINK PROPEL..i love that stuff. i can drink 2-3 bottles a day. berry and kiwi
strawberry are the best..get them a walmart there the cheapest...drink them
really cold...trust me i have done it all..lol nora 95 pounds gone in 5 1/2
months
sunflower02742003 <sunflower02742003@...
I am doing well. I am on chicken broth,
atkins chocalate protein shakes which I might add are very very
good. they taste like choclate pie filling. but what i am having a
hard time doing is getting in my water. it has taken me about 2 hrs
to drink my protein shake, and then i had chicken broth and jello,
and then later i had another shake, but time i get that down it is
late. any suggestions?
amy

i had surgery this Wed and I am doing well. I am on chicken broth,
atkins chocalate protein shakes which I might add are very very
good. they taste like choclate pie filling. but what i am having a
hard time doing is getting in my water. it has taken me about 2 hrs
to drink my protein shake, and then i had chicken broth and jello,
and then later i had another shake, but time i get that down it is
late. any suggestions?
amy

Hi everyone. Well I got on the scale again today, I'm down another 5
and 1/2 lbs. since Wednesday when I saw my surgeon for my 8 month
check up. That's a total of 136 and 1/2 I've lost so far. I'm so
happy!!! I was alittle upset when I saw him though. He asked me what
my goal weight was, when I told him 135-140 he said "NO WAY!!! NOT
FOR YOU!" He then said he was thinking more like 160 or 170. I
looked at his charts in his office, they say for a women of 5'4'' I
should weigh 131, why is he freaking? I told him absolutely not, 160-
170 was not good enough for me. He said he would accept 150 but I
better not let myself get any lower than that because it would not be
healthy for me. I was so bummed out about this. I doubt I could
ever get down to 135-140 anyway but it was nice to have that goal ya
know. And when I first started this whole WLS stuff with this doc he
said that weight was do-able. Why all of a sudden the change?
Anyway, I have a question for you all, a few days ago a few of you
were talking about a card you have that states you have had gastric
bypass surgery and asks that you be allowed to purchase a child's
sized portion at a restruant...well where did you all get such a
card? I've never heard of such a thing but I think it would come in
handy when I go away next month to a religious convention in
Massachucetts (sp?). We have to eat all our meals out and it can get
quite expensive especially when you have to pay for a huge plate that
you are only going to eat four bites of. I know myself and I'm more
likely to go the whole four days of the convention without eating
hardly at all instead of spending all that money on wasted food.
I've thought about just ordering an appetizer for dinner, something
small but it's usually fried and I can't do fried stuff. Anyway, if
you could tell me about the card that would be great.
Thanks.
Nean
RNY 11/03/03
Dr. Kaul-NY
376-239.5-140 start-current-goal
Down 136.5 lbs. YAY!!! :)

what is a BWI Consulier?

Reminder Reminder from the Calendar of Gastric_Bypass_Family
Cleveland Clinic (Weston, FL) meeting
Monday June 28, 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

Hello to everyone hope all of you are doing fine. I got my date for
my surgery it is schedule to be on August 5th at Baptist Medical
Center in Little Rock and my surgeron will be Dr. Clay Wellborn. I
talked with the doctor on the June 23 and was to have my surgery on
the 25th but since my Psyc evaluation got messed up and I could not
talk it that throw me to have my psyc evaluation on July 13 and once
I get that my surgery can be done and I did get a August 5th date of
the surgery this time. I have 232.1 pounds I want to lose so all of
you pray for me as I pray for all of you.
Thanks.

hello! Everyone is different but I felt really good after surgery. I
had some swelling for about one and a half weeks in my abdominal area
from surgery. After that went away I had to remember that I had
surgery and not to do things I shouldn't. At three weeks I was still
noticing a little pain occasionally in my left side where the tools
went in and out of. I walked from day one in hospital. Walking is
very important even if you can only walk a short distance!! At four
weeks out I had my month check up and had lost 25 lbs and saw the
dietician again and did my first work out in the gym. Did weights,
stretches, treadmill the works and it felt great. I started laying on
my sides the first week and by the end of the second week I was back
on my stomach. I propped pillows up in my bed to elevate my head so I
could sleep in bed and used a stool to get up in it. I would do it
all over again. Really, not bad at all.
Jenn - LAP RNY 05/25/04
jennjenn2@...
304-445-2144

Hello! I am one month post op and doing great. I went for my one
month check up on Thursday and was down 25 lbs. I was not as prepared
for after surgery as what I should have been. I would suggest that
you get samples of protein(powders and drinks) and try them now.
Don't wait til after surgery that way you will know what you like and
have it there when you get home. Sugar free jello, pudding, and
popscicles are excellent to have. Instant mashed potatoes and broth
work real well also. I now can go to regular food(good choices of
course) as long as I chew well and small bites but I find it very
hard right now. Maybe in a week or so. You will find that you do not
have an appetite so, you have to work hard to get it all in. The
first two weeks on liquids I found to be the easiest. The pain itself
from surgery for me was not bad. Once you wake up and they know you
are awake they begin pain med. in the reovery room. It works
wonderful and you will be up in a few hours walking.
Best wishes to both of you having surgery on July 6th and
congratulations!
Jenn
Lap RNY 05/25/04 -25lbs
jennjenn2@...

Hi! I am pretty new to this site also. Have only posted a couple of
times. I had my surgery on May 25. I have lost 25 lbs. I find eating
difficult sometimes, like I just don't want it. I do not eat bread or
rice either and can eat chicken and chili. I do get pains sometimes
when I guess I am eating to fast or not chewing good enough. I get my
protein in but I do find it hard to get in all my fluids by the time
I wait 30 min before and 30 min. after eating. I do get close but do
not get it all in.
Jenn

Hello! We have the same surgery date, fun! Surgery buddies! I am
feeling all of that, too.. but my doctor originally suggested it last
September and I had a terrible time. Insurance won't pay, so I am off
to Mexico. I am with you on wanting advice on prep before surgery,
maybe it will make these days go faster..
Staci
lap rny july 6,2004
Puerto Vallarta, Dr Joya

With the laparoscopic the healling time is even faster and you should be well
to return to school way before then as long as you do not have any
complications from surgery. I had open and I was good to go within 2 weeks, a
friend had
the lap and was good in 7-8 days. good Luck with your surgery,
God Bless,
Robin, NorthEastern, NY
Age- 41
EDD- July 27th, 2004
IT'S A BOY!!!!!!
Mommy to:
Benjamin & Jonathan
(twin boys 8 years),
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 :)
It's a BOY!!!!!
Emerson Roger

Had the same problem Starlet with the pain meds, it seems you're doing
well now, welcome home and welcome to the other side :)!
Carrie
Lap RNY April 9, 2004
348/290/140 (begin/current/goal)
www.carrieburns.net

That's almost a month, I would say that even with a more active
position, such as teaching you should be fine to return at work at 2-4
weeks, depending on how everything goes with the procedure. Just get
moving and you'll get your energy back and do what your doctor says :).
Good luck Anne!
Carrie
Lap RNY April 9, 2004
348/290/140 (begin/current/goal)
www.carrieburns.net

made it home last night.. i am feeling rather good.. had a few upset with not
getting pain meds on time but other than that i had a good stay in the hospital.
my maaa stayed with me and helped me every inch of the way.. the doc's did it
lap. smiles. drainage tube is OK.. just starting to hurt now.. very tender from
them lifting my liver up so hard... fluids are bit uncomfortable last night and
now.. started to get diarrhea, but managing..i assume its diarrhea.. with allot
of air from the oxygen they pumped my stomach up full of to swell it for
surgery...i had a mild temp the whole time. just kinda getting normal... but i
am so happy i am on the road to skinny.. the docs said it went very well, lost
very very little blood. well back to the rest room then bed.. hope i was not to
graphic.. i could not have gotten thru this surgery with out all your support
and encouragement. made it OK when i got information to retain so i would be OK
before during and now.. hugs my friends.. starlet

as for anything at home.....
i actually stayed at my parents home for 3wks post surgery
for me it was mainly to help with basic needs the first week or so
after that it was for mental support......;)

hi
i am new to the group.....
i had surgery on march 17, and am down 102lbs i feel great.
if anyone would like to chat just send me a message i would be
happy to talk to anyone.
i have had a few problems but nothing major. i am very happy i had
the surgery.
AIM id - mbyrd92443

Hi, Thanks for emailing me! WOW, on the weight loss... Thats quite a bit of
weight!!! CONGRATS!!!! What type of advise would you give me.... anything I
should have at home that I'll need after surgery???? How bad is the drain????

I am a 300 pound (soon to be thinner/healthier) single mom in Texas
and can really use a little support!! I am in the houston area but
I'm a native Oklahoman. I have a surgery date for July 6, 2004.... I
have researched for months--In fact, I started this in Jan. but
didn't follow through because I was too scared. I was approved June
23 (one day before my 34th birthday--and no you can't tell I'm 34
*smile*) and as you can tell everything has gone FAST and I am
feeling a bit overwhelmed now. Anxious, happy, excited,
worried..whew.... if you can give me any suggestions for what to have
at home or do prior to surgery I'd appreciate it... THANKS...

I would like to talk to someone who has recently had the laproscopic
procedure. I teach school and have to be back at school Aug. 12. How
soon did you feel okay? Any help would be appreciated. Anne:)

It is probably your nerves regarding your upcoming surgery. If I
were you I would take the time to do something extra special for
myself right now. Remind yourself why you are doing this and why you
worth doing it for.
Maybe sit down and write a list of all the things you hope to
accomplish or make better by having this surgery.
You ARE worth it and you may feel huge now but soon you will start
to feel that feeling fade and it is a great once that starts
happening.
Colleen
Lap-RNY 11/03/03
315/200/145-ish

congratulations to u sherry! u must be on a cloud. i know i am. i
cant imagine where i will be in 9 months. i am dropping sizes left
and right. and its been only 2months! what size were u and what are u
now?

Congrats Staci!!! I wish you well and much success.
Angela

hi. i also am new to the site. i had my surgery april 26 and im down 38lbs. i
also vomit regularly but i know its because im eating too much too fast and not
chewing it enough. i eat whatever i want. but things i use to be able to eat i
can no longer eat like eggs, beef and sometimes chicken. i get my protein thru
cheese and wont eat bread or rice. chili is great for me. burger king has a
great chili small and portable. im good for 2 bites of whatever i eat and then i
need to stop and go back a little later on. i would never go back to the way i
was and know that if i didnt have the surgery i would be miserable with summer
here!
pooch

Has anyone experienced this and what did you do to resolve it. The
past two weeks or so I've been very irritable, anything makes me go
off. I'm scheduled for my surgery July 30th and I'm thinking maybe
it's because time is approaching and because of stress. I'm also
feeling down on myself like I feel HUGE and fell like everyone looks
at me differently now. I should have felt like this before the
surgery but not now when I'm a month away and I know for sure a
date. What's wrong with me?? I can't even stand myself!!

Hi Maria,
Great job on your weight loss. As for the thigh reduction it wasn't very
complicated as surgeries go. Omar's thighs were abnormally large due to
lymphodema. If you ever go to Obesity Help, pull up Omar Barrera's profile and
check out
his pics. They cut him from his groin area (ouch) to about 2 inches below his
knee on each leg. He has approx. 85 to 90 staples in each leg. The surgery
took a few hours but the surgeon released him late the next day. He has a drain
in each leg and the staples are still. (he is 2 weeks post-op) His surgeon
keeps the staples in for about 3 weeks. He had little pain in the hospital, only
took one percocet when he was released and hasn't taken even a Tylenol since.
(I should say he has a high pain tolerance, LOL)
If you need any more info or have any questions feel free to email me
privately. Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Dawn

Hi Dora,
I'm glad that my sharing Omar's story can help you and others. His story is
amazing and I'm so proud of all he has accomplished. When I met him in a chat
room back in 1999 he was homebound and had been that way for a few years. He
couldn't leave his room and he had to have assistance for even the smallest
tasks including grooming and hygiene. I saw something in him and I wanted to be
with him regardless of size. He lived in Miami and I was in South Carolina. We
decided to move to Orlando together because I had friends here. My friends went
to Miami and packed all his stuff and brought him here in the back of a Ryder
truck. When we arrived in Orlando my friends had to use a piano dolly to get
him from the truck into the house. It seems like that was a lifetime ago and
that it happened to a different person. And here we are now and he is 290
pounds lighter and I can't keep up with him!
He exercises regularly and basically watches what he eats and drinks his
water. He has no problem eating just about anything. Sometimes he has a problem
with Splenda, chicken that is to dry, alcohol and some fried foods. But
everything is in moderation. He is a great example of someone who uses the
surgery as
a TOOL for weight loss.
As for myself, I'm pre-op. I currently weigh 394 and my BMI is 66. I have all
the usual problems that come with morbid obesity except for diabetis and high
cholesterol. I'm hoping to have surgery by the end of the summer.
Sincerely,
Dawn

I have to admit, I don't think it would be such a bad thing to have
surgery in such a beautiful place :). Best of luck Staci and
congratulations!
Carrie
Lap RNY April 9, 2004
348/290/140 (begin/current/goal)
www.carrieburns.net

Hello everyone!
I definitely have my date now!! It is all set! I am going to Puerto
Vallarta on July 6 and having surgery that afternoon!! I have my
tickets and everything, I am so excited and nervous (about after, not
mexico or the surgeon or anything) I just wanted to share my good
news! I am so glad I found you all, I have learned so much already!
Oh yay! (happy dance!!!!)
Hugs all around!
Staci
Insanity: doing the same thing over and over again and expecting
different results.
--Albert Einstein

I'm not in TX but I have Carefirst BCBS and they are
going to pay 100%

Hi, I'm new to the site and am looking for others to talk to about
the surgery, after effects, etc.
I had my surgery April 21 and as of this morning I'm down 63 pounds.
I'm finding that some days I can tolerate certain foods, but other
days I'm in agony throwing up from the same foods. Has this
happened to others? I'm avoiding rice and breads, and am usually
having yogurt for breakfast, soup or tuna for lunch and generally
chicken with some veggies for dinner. Sometimes I snack on low fat
crackers (2 or 3) in mid morning. And sometimes a peeled, seeded
tomato for an afternoon or evening snack. I'm watching my protein
and sticking to 1,000 cals or less a day. I find I'm afraid to try
new foods because of the vomiting.
While I'm glad I have had the surgery and would do it again, I find
that I don't enjoy food anymore. Perhaps that's a good thing?
Any feedback would be appreciated.
thanks

I am going to see a different Dr. tomorrow, I wasn't happy with the first
one. All of the Dr.'s in our city (san antonio, texas) do it on a out of
network basis and can charge whatever the insurance doesn't pay which could
be $5000.00 cash that we have to come up with, is this what you experience
is as well? I thought it was a little crazy, but I guess we have to pay it.
It is just a little much when myself and my husband are going to do it. Can
anyone else possibly tell me approx. what blue cross blue shield of texas
pays? (i know all policies are different, just curious)
Hi-d

Angie--dont you fret--itll come off. At one month I was really low ---had only
lost 13 pounds--no real reason---I didnt even change anything--just was
patient--now at 4 months Im down 70 pounds and feel great. I was really worried
in the beginning because not much was happening--but it eventually caught
up---CIndy
300/230/150

Dawn,
I'am glad to hear about your husbad. Can you please explain to me alittle
about the thigh reduction. I really need that. Please tell me how much and how
the procudere goes, what do they do?? Thanks alot
Maria
Lap RNY
300/195/160???
10/01/03

Hi Angie,
I did the exact same thing you did with weight loss. The week I started on soft
foods and started back at Curves I went almost 2 weeks without any weight loss.
I'm not sure if it was muscle mass I was gaining or what but I am back on track
again and am 6 weeks post op. So give it a little time. I had to hide my
scale, it was getting depressing. I am now down 30 pound.
Michele

Hi Guys,
I haven't posted in a long while and I just wanted to also say thank you to
everyone that has listened to me and helped to through this whole procedere. I
really thought I would die if i had this surgery. Now I feel like my life is
worth living, Sex is great with my husband, kids enjoy mommy more, people
can't say it enough how great I look. I can go on and on, but I thank GOD
everyday of my new life for giving me this me (tool) to live a more healthier
life.
I just reached a milestone, I'am now down 105 Lbs. Ican't beleive i just
typed that!!! It feels and looks so wierd. I'am sooo Happy. I fit into a size
12 and would not care if I stayed this size forever. I'am 5'6" and now weigh
195. I now in my heart that I want to get down to 160 and I know I can do it.
Anyhow , thank you guys for all your love and support, without you I
proobley would not have had it done. God Bless all.
Maria NEW YORK
LAP RNY
300/195/160
10/1/03

My husband Omar was at 525 when they wheeled him into surgery on April 7,
2003. His surgery was done Lap with NO complications whatsoever. His surgeon was
Dr. Raul Rosenthal a the Cleveland Clinic in Weston, Florida. He also had his
gallbladder taken out and a kidney biopsy done while in the OR. I believe that
there shouldn't be a problem if someone is in that weight range if the
surgeon is trained/educated. The only requirement that Dr. R asked Omar to
follow
was a 2 week pre-op liquid diet so that his liver would shrink down some before
surgery since the liver is in the area where the surgeon has to work to do the
bypass. You will find some surgeons who aren't as experienced as others say
that they can only perform an OPEN bypass because of a patients weight but it's
really because they haven't been trained to do LAP on all size patients. But
I suppose I would rather they say that then cut me open and not know what
their doing. LOL
As far as Omar's weight loss as of today he is 235. So that is a loss of 290
pounds in 14 months. (30 pounds of that was from a thigh reduction done on
June 7, 2004)
Sincerely,
Dawn

So glad everything went so well! Get some rest and take care!

I had open 14 months ago, I would do it again in a heart beat. I was 243 and am
5'2 i am now about 120 ( bloated thanks to that time sorry) I can walk with my
kids, keep up with my kids, I can fit into booths at resturants, on amuzement
park rides. I can go though the turnstiles at places. I can cross my legs and
see my feet. I dont look down and see the blob of fat anymore. You are the only
one who can make your choice. But for me it was the best choice. I like being
able to go to the juniors section and buy cute clothes.
Kim
5-5-03
243-120-115
jules <skybluuh2626@...
Just wanted to know if anyone could relieve my decision about having
the open rny,I would like to hear stories both good and bad and also
what to expect.Im 250 would like to be 130 thanks Julie

Just wanted to know if anyone could relieve my decision about having
the open rny,I would like to hear stories both good and bad and also
what to expect.Im 250 would like to be 130 thanks Julie

Amy,
Just more proof that prayer does work. I am glad to hear that you are doing
great!!! And you just had your surgery yesterday. That is amazing!!! Get some
rest and keep us updated.
Dora

well, i went in at 5 am Wed the 23, and my surgery was at 6 am, i
was in recovery for 4 hours and moved to my room. Was told that my
surgery was 1 hour and 15 minutes and said there was no
complications thank goodness.... I had alot of prayers being said
for me. thanks to everyone that keep me in there thought and
prayers... I just got home from the hospital and I am doing fine.. I
feel great.. Only thing is that I am a little soar... I am now
drinking my first protein shake which is the Atkins Chocolate, which
is very good... Well i am going to get some rest...
amy

Yes, I had open RNY at 605 lbs. I did have a lot of complications
and such. If there is anything you would like to know you can e-
mail me.
I also had the water blisters you mentioned, but only prioer to
surgery.
Steve G.
open RNY Dr. Mark Gibbs 5/6/02
605/307/299 or less

I want to say thank you to everyone who has ever listened to me, talked to me,
or helped me, or my family in anyway....you all are the best people in the
world..now that I said that here is what i wanted to write and say. I had a goal
to be down from 409.6 to 309.6 by JULY 1,2004 and guess what I have passed that
goal.and I am so happy..I feel so much better about myself.now my next goal is
150 gone by August 22,04 and if i work harder at walking and eating right I will
have that done by then.God I love this new life of for me and the new friends we
have made.if it wasn't for a couple of you and you know who you are I think I
would have never made it this Far.. thank you all for being here for everyone...
Stacy Beck
Surgery Date :.MARCH,10,04
409.6/as of June,22,04 I weighted in at 307.6,
so that is 102.0 lbs gone for good
/ some day 195

Stacy,
That is WONDERFUL. I am so happy for you! You are an inspiration
to us all. Just keep following the dr and nutrionists advice and
remember that the surgery is a 'tool'. Like your email name,
hummingbird, I bet you feel twice as energetic now. Keep up the
good work and keep us posted!
Bridget Northam

I'm almost 3 months post op and haven't touched a drop of alcohol.
It's not a problem, I've never been a frequent drinker, strictly an
occasional social drinker. But we're going on vacation and I was
thinking of maybe trying one drink when we go out with friends. Right
now, all I can have to drink when we go out is water.
What can you recommend as a "light" drink? Or should I not even try it
at all yet?
Please tell me what your experiences have been.

I'm four months out and my surgeon told me not to even try alcohol until I
was at least six months out. I wouldn't know what to try, since most alcohol
is made of sugar, and I'm avoiding sugar.
Shannon in Indiana
Open RNY 2/25/04
265.4/205/135
5'5" Age 28

Thanks Dora. That's pretty much what the nutrionist says but the
surgeon would like me to stay at 700-800 calories forever. I've
heard at our local support meeting that the surgeons with BC are
really being pressured to 'show good results' to be able to keep
doing the surgeries. My nutrionist says that its not reasonable or
healthy for someone my height 5'9" to restrict yourself to 700-800
calories for the rest of my life. That's why I wonder how the
people that are eating around 1,000 calories a day or a little more
are doing.

Anna,
I am not post-op, but have dieted my whole life. There might be some truth
behind what she is saying. Sometimes when your calorie intake is too low your
body might try and hold onto everything you are ingesting to stay alive. And
with an increase in calories your body might decide to let some of what it is
storing go. I know that sounds crazy, but it is worth a try. It just might
work.
Dora

Hey I am usually a lurker and don't post often but I really
appreciate being able to read the messages! I am almost a year out
now from my surgery and I've lost about 150 pounds and I'm getting
closer to my goal. I'm now at the point that I average about 1
pound loss a week. I am 5'9" and now weigh about 219 pounds. I am
getting around 650 to 800 calories every day and my nutrionist wants
me to increase my calories. She says it would be healthier for me
to be closer to 1,000 calories, especially with how much I
exercise. I guess I'm a little afraid to eat more . . . I'd love
some feedback from you guys about how many calories a person should
be getting in after 9 months out.
Thanks!
Anna

Has anyone had Dr Kerlackian perform their surgery in Cincinnati
Ohio??

I live in Cincinnati but I have never heard of him. I went to
Columbus for my surgery, Bariatric Treatment Center. Dr James
Viglianco. I LOVED him.

i had my surgery at Cedars and my doctor was also Dr. Kahlili. I'm
gonna be late for my 3-month appt because my son came home from Japan
and i had a crazy work schedule... but i did take my 3-month bloodtest
and found out i'm anemic (see my anemic post from a few minutes ago).
when was your surgery? mine was 3/5/04 - i've lost 75 pounds. maybe
you and i were in the hospital at the same time (i was there for 8
painful days)
deb
open RNY Cedar Sinai, Dr. Kahlili
357/282/150

i had my 3 month blood test and i'm anemic. The nurse told me to take
iron... how many mg should i take every day?
i'm glad that i found out that i was anemic because i've been having
dizzy spells lately and apparently this is probably the reason.
CAN ANYONE TELL ME HOW MUCH IRON TO TAKE?? the nurse said to take a
pill a day, but she didn't specify how many mg. the pills i got are 50mg.
thanks,
Deb
open RNY 3/5/04
357/282/150

I am guessing you meant you had surgery on May 26th not June 26th
seeing as that isnt until this Saturday. 24lbs in one month is GREAT!
Everyones weight loss differs. There isnt a gold standard. When is
the last time you lost 24lbs in 30 days? I know I used to ask myself
those questions all the time. Fact is I never had. Remember to follow
the rules of the pouch and increase your activity as much as you can.
Even a couple of extra steps each time you walk or increase the pace
in which you walk. I think many of us think we arent losing fast
enough. We have surgery and we want the weight to fall off in a week.
Patience and perservence. Sometimes we compare the success of our
loss to someone else who had surgery around the same time we did.
That is not a valid gauge of how successful you will be. It takes
time to lose a lot of weight and almost ALL of us began with one
hundred or more pounds to lose. I think 24 lbs in one month is
FANTASTIC. You will get there. It just wont be tomorrow! Keep up the
good work!
Sending smiles your way!
Bonnie
287/170/150
9 months out!

Persis, congrats!! It's a good feeling isn't it. Cindy
itsmepersis <itsmepersis@...
My hubby and I were at a doctor's appt for our son today. While we
were there, he decided to weigh himself. We had to look for a scale
that would go over 300lbs and when we did, it showed that he had
lost 25lbs. He had the surgery on the 14th of June. I could see on
his face the excitement. Seeing the numbers on the scale was
definately an encouragement to him. His spirits are definately
better!!!!
We will be going into his job so he can work for about an hour
tomorrow.
Thanks for all the support and suggestions for all of you. You guys
are great!!!
Persis

Hello,
My name is Angie and I am new to the group. I had the surgery on June 26th and I
am worried that I have not lost enough weight. I am now one month after surgery
and I have lost 24 lbs. The problem is in the last week I haven't lost anything.
I went to soft foods last Wensday and since then I have not lost one pound. Does
it slow down the first week or so that you go to soft foods? I have been walking
everyday for 30-45 mins and I just don't want to get frustrated early in the
game. I was told the bigger you are the faster you lose so I figured I would
lose more by now. I was 353 pre-op and now I am 329. Please share some stories
with me to compare how I am really doing because I am getting a little worried
here. Thanks
angie2nice2u@...

Yes, it sounds like dumping to me. I am currently a little over 2 weeks
post op and I CANNOT do protein shakes, because I get a severe stomach ache.
Vickie
5'01" BMI 42 pre-op 223
6-7-04
Heavenly Scents Candle Company
Vickie Smith
523 Dickson Circle
Sherman, Texas 75090
903-893-3833
website: www.heavenlyscentstx.us
e-mail: rasmith@...

Hi guys!
My hubby and I were at a doctor's appt for our son today. While we
were there, he decided to weigh himself. We had to look for a scale
that would go over 300lbs and when we did, it showed that he had
lost 25lbs. He had the surgery on the 14th of June. I could see on
his face the excitement. Seeing the numbers on the scale was
definately an encouragement to him. His spirits are definately
better!!!!
We will be going into his job so he can work for about an hour
tomorrow.
Thanks for all the support and suggestions for all of you. You guys
are great!!!
Persis

I am only going on my fourth week after surgery and am still on a soft diet.
Anyway today I had a protein shake. Delicious. But! we were out of 1%
milk and I used 2%. Shortly afterwards I had cramps, nausea and heat
flashes. I thought I would die. It took me a couple of hours to sleep it
off.
Was this dumping? Could I have gotten it from too rich a milk?
Susan
Lap 6/8/04
267/245/143

Many people become lactose intolerant after surgery. That could be
part of the problem. Also milk contains sugars which could have also
contributed to the dumping. I know many people who only use water for
their shakes because of the milk sugars and being lactose intolerant.
You could also try soy milk ( I havent been brave enough to attempt
that yet).

Why don't you know what kind you are getting?

It depends on whether you have open or lap as to how you'll be
feeling, but two weeks should give you a good head start. Check with
your doctor on when he/she feels you can start doing things for
yourself. Remember, in the very beginning you can't do anything...not
even drive.

Tjere are some lists going on this and the previous page for whta to
bring to the hospital. As for at home, be sure you have some protein
drinks (enough to last you a couple of weeks) and some full liquids
(processed soups are good), some sugar free popsicles and jello. After
that you can see what you need and go get it.