Interested in gout

Dear Charlotte and Peggy,
As far as I'm concerned, you can't read or research this too much. The
change you are considering making is radical and is for life. You should be
very, very sure of what you're doing. Having said that, you will always
hear about complications here and there along the road after surgery. For
me, so far (knock wood) I've had zero complications. I follow my doctor's
instructions to the letter and I do well. However, sometimes something just
"happens" and you have to get it taken care of. There are things that are
definitely within your control (staying hydrated and getting in your protein
and vitamin supplements as required) and some things beyond your control.
That's where the medical community comes into play.
There are far more patients who have this surgery and have no complications
or problems than there are people with problems, but it's the people with
problems that make you realize that problems can happen.
For me, I was literally dying prior to my surgery. If I didn't have this
surgery I'd be dead my now. I had out-of-control diabetes, hypertension,
neuropathy, I had gone septic. I had intravenous antibiotics for over nine
months with no end in sight. I was one of the walking dead. Was I willing
to risk a surgery that potentially could save my life? You bet! What was I
risking after all? Certain death? At 49 I wasn't quite ready to let go of
my six year old daughter or my life yet.
Would I do this again? In a heartbeat if I had to. Do I recommend it to
others? Absolutely not. We each have to come to our own conclusions about
what is at risk. Make a list for yourself of the positives and negatives
about your life as it is now and another list of what the ups and downs are
for having the surgery. Weigh it out for yourself and see if it's worth it
to you. Only you can decide for yourself. Yes, there are certainly risks
of complications but there are also such positives that your life can become
so much healthier if you are willing to do what's necessary. Only you can
decide. I would certainly not let that article scare me.
If you have local support groups talk to people on an individual basis and
ask them flat out what complications, if any, they experienced and why or
why not they would do this again. Your decision will only come to you when
you feel comfortable with your research. I wish you both the best of luck.
live each day like it's your last... love like you've never been hurt...
Deb in Hazlet, NJ
"Debbie Dancer"
distal rny
September 3, 2002
386/237/160?
BMI 60/35/24?
-149
-69.5"
Angel to Bill (8/14/03), Debbie (waiting for a date) Ilene (6/26/03), Roy
(7/29/03) and Ro

Hey Jody,
Nice to meet my Mississippi neighbor. We will have a
party like no other...LOL
Thanks
Pam New Orleans

Before surgery I heard that losing hair was a side effect, I was also told
Zinc can help slow the process. So i puchased some from GNC prior to my
surgery..although I have not been so good about taking them. The NIOXIN my mom
was
told about when she had cancer and began losing her hair after the chemotherapy
treatments. It didn't really help for hers as one can imagine, but is
supposed to help with our type of hair loss. You can purchase it at salons or
some
grocery stores (my local HEB has it) it smells..and tingles like sea breeze
which is kinda cool :)
Chrissy
OpenRNY 02/19/03
310/223

Well it's come that time that I will be going "no mail" for a while due to this
gosh darn weather here. Well all of my furkids are safe and we are going to be
home in hopes that we only get a small amount of water in the house. I don't
know if I want to try to save as much as we can or just go into a closet and
just sit and cry. Guess crying didn't get anything done so we will try to save
what we can by putting things up high as much as we can. The water isn't very
far from our house now. Just about 1 block. But our home is a bit higher than
some around us. So we are hoping that is what will save us. We are ready to lose
power. If you'd like to get in touch with me please email Sharon Steward as I
will be sending her our phone number. I don't want to just put it out. As you
know there's some "crazy" people out there. They are sending the National Guard
in here tonight and some tomorrow. Our county now is a total disaster they say.
Please PLEASE keep us in your prayers.
Jim & Belinda
When I go to heaven if there's no dogs when I get there,
I want to go where they went.
God is soooo good.... all the time.

I am soooooo frustrated now. It seems like I spend most of the time
after wls in a plateau mode. After the last plateau, I lost 6 pounds
it seems all at once. Then nothing again, for almost two weeks now.
I was told to make sure I eat about every three hours, only a few
bites every time. I really try that, but it seems like I can only
fit it in about three times a day. I also cant get in much more than
about 30 ounces of water a day. And last but not least, everyone
keeps saying to excersize. Well, I work 6 days a week, mostly from 1-
10 every day, and I live an hour from work. So fitting in excersize
is almost impossible. It seems to me that since I barely eat
anything, I in theory should lose weight that way. I am just at a
loss here and dont know what to do. I just dont want to have gone
through this and only lose the amount of weight I have ever lost on
the countless diets I have been on. I have an idea that maybe if I
just drink protein shakes and dont worry about food at all, maybe
that will work. I am supposed to eat mainly protein and stay away
from carbs, but protein is so hard to eat, it hurts to eat, it seems
like the only thing that is easiest to eat is mashed potatoes. So if
thats all I can eat and not fit in hardly any protein, I dont see how
eating food is going to do anything. Anyone have any ideas? Do you
think the protein shakes will help? By the way, I havent ever drank
a protein shake yet, so maybe that will work, who knows.
Thanks,
Beth
4/29/03
266/224/140

well the surgeons in my area will not do it on anyone younger that
18 and now im having troubles with cali where i am going so my mom
told me to call the drs tomarrow and try to talk to them myself
yes it is very frustraiting and im hoping i will get some wheres
with it i am just blessed that this dr is even willing to do it and
that i have people who support me maybee it was Gods will for me to
have to wait i dono
thanks too all of you for helping me through this rough time
sarah

I have a question for all of you guys that have had lap rouen y done.
How long was it before you could sleep on your side and how long
before this awfull pain goes away? I cant drink what IM suppose to I
dont know why but after about 3 bites Im soooo full any suggestions?
Tammie

That's great!!!! I love it when I can get in with a cancellation!!!
I hope that your meeting goes really well..
Let us know!
Trish

Has your group closed?

no scales, freedom, sweet freedom! enjoy!
lori h.

Has anyone's doctor said anything about limiting the amount of
caffeine we should be drinking before surgery? I am trying to cut
mine out completely, but I do have 1 diet coke a day.. is this bad?
Trish

Okay Im home from surgery having alot of pain that I think is normal
and today is better Im on my 4th day post op and I sipped one cup of
broth and 1/2 oz of jello and I have actually gotten in about 5 cups
of liquids today so far. My drain is still eaking pretty good though
is that normal?? I did get on my side for about a hour and it wasnt
that bad who am I kidding it hurt but I cant stand being on my back
any longer.
Is there any more suggestions for what I should drink IM drinking
Gatorade right now and the surgeon said he wants me to have that more
than water. Is there anything else I should try to eat or drink??
Also has any one had realy bad loose stool after this can I take
something for it??
Thanks a million guys you are all a great support team.
Tammie
Missouri
Surgery 7/7/03

Where are you? I help out at Curves in Davie Florida.
Let me know what you need and I will see if I can get it for you!
Vicky

My name is Becky Barlow and I have my first appt scheduled for
tomorrow. I have all of my pre op paperwork done and all of my tests
and and clearances. All I am waiting on is to go into the office
and see him and get my insurance sent off. THe lady that runs the
office tells me that she will be able to send it off tomorrow, so I
hope so. Crossing my fingers.
Keep me in your prayers as I begin my journey.
Becky
Lap RNY Preop

i'm borrowing this subject (an old thread) from spotlight.
just for today: fill out my fitday journal
& drink more water
lori h.
14 grateful months out

lorih - you made me smile you are so right we can not always walk the talk
!!!
Take Care Robin O- Calif.

I have gone through the consultation, Mental Eval. and seen the
dietitian. Now they say I have to write a diagram of my previous
attempts of trying to lose weight. When, what, how long, weight
resaults and price. I am sorry, I did not journal all of my failed
attempts at losing weight. What do I say or do? PLEASE help me.

On this day i will have my gastric bypass, what should I expect?

Are only showers allowed? or can I live in my jacuzzi....I have a jacuzzi tub in
my bathroom and LOVE the thing...it is my blankie when ever I hurt or feel
lousy....
Debby

New to the site.
Open RNY 4/28. Lost weight until 6/9/03, then no weight loss since
then (4 weeks). Is this unusual? I'm getting about 60 gm protein and
few carbs and about 800 cla a day. Take the vitamins,b12 sublingual,
tums for calcium.
I am extremely tired and have zero energy! Any suggestions
Took a look at the posts the past week and it seems that peoples
postings get repeated often. Is there a way to just scan the
Subjects? It takes me hours to read through emails or each individual
post because of the redundancies.

Hey Becky,
Nice to meet ya. I see you are pre-op. Me too. Are you
still waiting on insurance or just a date? Have a
great one.
Pam
New Orleans

PLEASE!! Take me off from your mailing list. I already went to the main page
to change my profile from receiving e-mail to read them online but I'm still
receiving the messages. I want to continue be part of the group but I don't
want to receive the e-mails. I would read it at the main page.
Thanks
Coraly

Due to the possibility of infection from sitting in water, baths and
hot tubs should definately be avoided until all tubes, staples, sutures are
out. Running water such as during a shower, is fine.
From a nurse of many years-Joanne

Kim,
I also had open rny and had my gallbladder removed at the same
time. I just wanted to tell you my hospital experience, not to scare
you about anything, just to tell you what I went through. First I
want to tell you that the pain for me was really not too bad after
the first day. The first day I slept mostly, and the next three
days, even though they had me on that demerol drip where I could push
the button myself, I barely used it at all. The worst thing for me
though, was coming out of anesthesia. When I started to wake up, I
felt like I had to vomit. I kept hollering for someone, I could see
lots of people around me, I guess working on all the other people
coming out of surgery, but I couldnt quite focus. Some nurse kept
telling me to just go ahead and get sick, because the tube down my
throat (ng tube I guess it's called?) would catch it. So, I did
that, and my god, that hurt soooooooo bad. I didnt want to ever do
that again in my life. The nurse told me to just relax, I was too
tense, if I would just relax I wouldnt get sick. So, I tried to do
that. But, I did that so much to the point that I would stop
breathing. They would holler at me to wake up, to start breathing
again, but as soon as I did that, I would get sick again. It felt
like I went through that at least 10 times, but it really probably
was only more like 5 times. That whole first day, if I wasnt asleep,
I was getting sick, and the nurse told me that it was the tube down
my throat that was causing it. The second day, it came out, and I
didnt get sick anymore at all, not to this day (crossing my fingers
on that one). The second day I walked the halls a little bit, there
was another girl a few doors down that had the same surgery, she had
the same surgeon, the day before I did. She said she didnt have the
same problem at all about getting sick, in fact the nurses told me
that most people dont get sick at all. The second day, my nurse
helped me wash my hair, I HATE not having my hair washed every day, I
was worried that I couldnt do that. It was hard bending over the
sink, and I was weak, but it was worth it, for me anyway. The third
day I walked the halls again, and I also got to drink apple juice or
grape juice. I was very scared to go too fast, so I probably went
slower than most people do, lol. I was allowed to drink 3 ounces
about every 15 minutes, but it usually would take me the whole 15
minutes just to get down those three ounces, so I would only drink
about every 30-45 minutes. Later on in the evening on the third day,
the nurse took out my iv's, and boy that felt good, to finally not be
hooked to anything at all. The morning of the fourth day, I was
allowed to eat something, and if I kept it down, I was allowed to go
home. The food people bringing the food brought me the wrong thing,
lol, they brought me scrambled eggs toast and jelly. Of course I
knew that was wrong, so they fixed it soon after and brought me
grits. I ate about three small spoonfulls, and everything went just
fine. I was released at around noon on the fourth day. Oh, before I
went home, I was allowed to take a shower, boy that felt good. I did
get to wash my hair on the third day too, I did it myself. One more
thing I forgot to mention. Two weeks before my surgery, I had my
period, so I thought, great, I wont be on it in the hospital.
WRONG. I started it for some reason on the second day. So dont
forget to bring pads or whatever you use, I didnt bring it and had to
use those huge hospital pads. One thing that helped me alot too, is
that I used two extra pillows, one under each arm. I couldnt sleep
laying flat, it hurt too much, so I propped the bed up and the
pillows helped me get comfortable. Plus one was there to hold
against my stomach when I would get up or down from the bed. Even
though getting sick was the worst part, all in all, it really wasnt
too bad. I would definitely do it again. And when I got home, I
didnt use any pain medication at all, I really wasnt in any kind of
bad pain, it was just uncomfortable. Oh, and I forgot to tell you
when the doctor took out the clips. The third day he took out the
drainage tube and two clips, then on the morning of the fourth day he
took the rest of them out. They didnt hurt coming out at all, and it
looked pretty good, it seemed to be healing really nicely. I hope
just reading my experience will help you somewhat. Good Luck!!
Beth
4/29/03
26/224/140

Dear Charlotte,
The amount that you will have to "give up" following surgery is minimal and,
in the scheme of things, the sacrifice is so small and inconsequential when
you consider all you're getting in return (i.e. your health, and a new lease
on life). As for giving up baking, it's not necessary. With the use of
splenda, cup for cup replacing sugar, you don't have to give up what you
love to do. Just be aware that you'll be eating much less of whatever it is
you make. As far as waiting for a date, etc., have patience and use this
time to continue your research. A smart "consumer" is the best customer.
Once you start getting your ducks in a row, the time will fly. Just make a
decision that's in your own best interests.
Dear Beth,
Unlike dieting pre-surgery, the less you eat, the more weight you will
retain following surgery. You absolutely have to increase your protein
intake to a minimum of 60 grams per day and you have to, at the very least,
double your fluid intake daily. If you don't increase these two areas, you
are a "train wreck waiting to happen." You will be heading for malnutrition
and dehydration, both of which will land you in the hospital. Upping these
two levels will enhance your weightloss. Your body needs the protein in
order to burn the fat. You do not lose weight after surgery by limiting
your intake the way you are.
Definitely try protein shakes. It took me 3 months and a lot of money to
find some palatable ones, but the one I swear by is Champion Pure Whey Stack
protein powder (it comes in vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, mocachino and
banana, available through wlssuccess.com in sample sizes so you can try a
few different ones and see what you like). One scoop of powder has 23 grams
of protein. You can mix it with water or milk/lactaid. I mix it with
both... 8 oz. milk, 8 oz. water, upping the protein to 30 grams in one
sitting. I drink it first thing in the morning with my pills and before
breakfast, I've gotten in half my daily requirement for protein. I try to
get the rest in through food. 2 oz. tuna = 28 grams; 2 Xlarge eggs = 14
grams; 1 can skinless/boneless sardines = 23 grams; chicken, salmon, most
fish are very high in protein and you can get a lot of "bang for your buck"
even if you can't eat too much at one time.
Are you taking vitamins and supplements? Your schedule sounds pretty
hectic, but do you have a Curves near you (here they seem to be opening up
on every corner! Hahahaha). If so, try out a free week with them. It's
for women only and you can be in and out of there in 1/2 hour. The exercise
machines are really simple to do and the routine literally lasts 1/2 hour
and you're done.
As for fluids, carry it with you. Never go anywhere without a bottle of
something to drink. It does not have to be straight water. Do you like the
flavored waters (Fruit 2 0, Propel, etc.)? Crystal light is good if
aspartame doesn't bother you. Juice, cut in half with water is also okay.
Any decaf drinks are good as well. Try for variety so you don't get bored,
but finda way to increase your numbers and you will be happily surprised at
your weightloss, I think.
Hope I haven't offended you with these suggestions. I really do wish you
the best of luck.
live each day like it's your last... love like you've never been hurt...
Deb in Hazlet, NJ
"Debbie Dancer"
distal rny
September 3, 2002
386/237/160?
BMI 60/35/24?
-149
-69.5"
Angel to Bill (8/14/03), Debbie (waiting for a date) Ilene (6/26/03), Roy
(7/29/03) and Ro

I am talking about my jacuzzi tub...in my master bath...it is filled and emptied
at each use and cleaned fairly frequently...it is NOT the standing water kind
with chlorine in it....it's my bath tub...just a great big one....
Is this okay????
Debby

Hi Deb,
Wow, thats great information. And no, you havent offended me at
all. I just mainly have been hearing from everyone that I am doing
just fine, and that its ok, but I really havent felt like that. I
did buy a protein powder yesterday, its not that good, but I am
drinking it. I actually drank it last night at around 7 and my
energy just shot to the roof, maybe it was just me, but I dont think
so, I think it had to have been that. I am also drinking one this
morning, as I type this. The fluids is definitely going to be more
of a problem. I am the manager of a Dairy Queen, and it gets sooooo
busy at this time of year, I cant seem to stop for even one second
to drink anything. I work 9 hours a day though, so I have to figure
out what to do with that. It takes me an hour to get to work, so I
have been forcing myself to drink a 24 oz bottle of water on the way
to work, so I have been at least getting that in, but I do know I
need more. The ride home has been harder. By that time of night for
some reason, it hurts alot worse to drink anything. Anyway, thank
you so much for your help, I gotta get ready for work.
Beth
4/29/03
266/224/140

For those who would like to add sweetness to their liquids but are
concerned about the effects of many of the artificial sweeteners out
there, I suggest you look into stevia...a VERY sweet herbal product
that is 200-300 times sweeter than sugar. It can be purchased at
most health food stores in a variety of forms and you don't need
much!!
The following site provides equivalincies between stevia and sugar:
http://www.healthy.net/nutrit/kitchen/foods/stevia-
sugarEquivalencies.asp

of tuna in the silver pouch. oh, & only 90 calories. great for
on-the-go, doesn't need heating up, it's not as fishy as canned
tuna... another sure winner are soy burgers/soy chicken products, mmm
mmm.
lori h.

Dear Steve,
I was reading your post where you answered some questions and, to my
knowledge, some of the information you stated is incorrect. As I say, this
is only to my knowledge, but I didn't want you thinking some of the wrong
things.
A distal refers to length of intestine bypassed, not only in the duodenal
switch, but with the RNY gastric bypass surgery as well. It is the duodenal
switch procedure that eliminates the dumping, not the distal. I have had
RNY surgery performed distally and I do dump. You are correct about the
fully functioning stomach with the duodenal switch. I like to think of DS
as literally having your cake and eating it too because you can, if you
choose to, eat cake and not dump from it.
A friend of mine had duodenal switch surgery and her pouch is about 3-4xs
larger than mine. When we eat together, I'm through after 3 or 4 bites of
my food. She eats a normal sized meal. For going out and socializing, your
surgery is DEFINITELY preferable to mine.

malabsorption of fats for its success. This means that vitamins A&D and
calcium need to be taken in large doses everyday - and you need an annual
blood test to make sure you are getting enough.
Actually, in the first year or two, blood tests should be run at 3 month
intervals. Annually is way too long a stretch to see how you're doing
because malnutrition and dehydration set in much sooner and should be caught
quickly. You can cause severe damage if you wait too long and have
developed problems.
When was your surgery? How are you doing with it? My girlfriend is
panicking because she thinks she' eating too much and not losing fast enough
but so few people here have opted for duodenal switch so she has no one to
compare notes with. She had her surgery October 24, 2002 and has lost about
105 lbs.
live each day like it's your last... love like you've never been hurt...
Deb in Hazlet, NJ
"Debbie Dancer"
distal rny
September 3, 2002
386/237/160?
BMI 60/35/24?
-149
-69.5"
Angel to Bill (8/14/03), Debbie (waiting for a date) Ilene (6/26/03), Roy
(7/29/03) and Ro

Dear Lori Anne,
I am definitely up for it. As I said, I will be there November 1 through 8
this year, so if you need anything while I'm there, let me know and I'll
bring it home with me. As for weeks to consider, I chose my week this year
because I spoke to some people who work at the park and they told me that
early November was the best time of year to come... the weather is perfect
and the crowds are gone. It worked out perfectly for me because Zoe is only
missing two days of school. Here in New Jersey, this year that week is
teacher convention weekend (Thursday and Friday of that week) and Tuesday is
Election Day, so she's only missing Monday and Wednesday for school.
Another good week, I think, is the last week of August, 'cause anyone who's
kids go to camp are usually done by then. It's the week before school
starts, but we'd be home before Labor Day and not get stuck in the crunch of
that travel time.
I've also been in Disney over Christmas break and I agree, it's a great time
to be there, though the airfares can be a bit pricey. I just got through
checking the Continental site and orbitz.com (just plugged in this year's
break dates. There were flights from the NY area direct to Orlando,
non-stop, for as low as $307 per person, which, at that time of year is not
bad at all.
I have never stayed on Disney property (I usually use a week from my
timeshare, since I've got no plans to go back to Aruba any time soon -- too
expensive) but would love to. I've heard great things about the Disney
Movie hotel and when I checked those packages, the price was very
reasonable. They ran a great sale for this summer but I already had my
plans set for November so I passed it up.
Definitely count me and Zoe in on this one. I don't know if my husband will
come or not, but that doesn't matter (he's staying home in November). We
will be there. My preferences are: 1- (if they coordinate throughout the
group): teacher convention week whenever it falls out in 2004; 2- last week
of August; or 3- Christmas break (for maximum saving for trip time). Let me
know. I'm definitely in for the trip though.
Thanks for thinking up the idea and for coordinating it. Let me know if I
can be of any help. I've been there every year for the past four years and
several times before that, though I'm certainly not the Disney maven that
you are!
live each day like it's your last... love like you've never been hurt...
Deb in Hazlet, NJ
"Debbie Dancer"
distal rny
September 3, 2002
386/237/160?
BMI 60/35/24?
-149
-69.5"
Angel to Bill (8/14/03), Debbie (waiting for a date) Ilene (6/26/03), Roy
(7/29/03) and Ro

I am 4 months post-op today! I started at 319 and now weigh 230! I have lost
a total of 89 pounds and am feeling grrrreat! :) I just wanted to share my 4
months post-op update... and I'd like to say congrats to all those who have had
tremendous weight loss also :) I enjoy reading the posts. :)
~Mary
319/230/???
"My wish isnt to be everything to everyone, but something to someone..."

Hi Everyone ! !
I am a little over a month out (s/d 5/20/03). I've lost 35 lbs! My
concerns are this.. I am EXTREMELY tired recently. To the point
where I barely have enough energy to wash my face. I spoke to the
doctor who advised me to make sure I'm taking my vitamins &
protein..to be honest, I'm ok with the vitamins but the protein
shakes are hard to get in. I also know I'm not eating "enough".
Sometimes when I eat I either get a belly ache (nothing terrible) or
sometimes I vomit... so I'm almost turned off by food. Other people
I know who've had this surgery say they had experienced this too and
that it's an adjustment period. I just wanted to know if anyone else
went through this and when should I start getting concerned? I've
been feeling run down for a few days now. I go next month for my lab
work and hope to clear up any problems, if any, at that point.
My second concern, and a frivolous one too.... but anyway, my fingers
have been shrinking. I went from an 8.75 ring finger to a 7.5 ring
finger. My problem is that we are planning on getting engaged soon
and the ring I am getting will be difficult to size in the future due
to it's design. I was wondering if your fingers still continue to
loose 'weight'. I'm sure I may go down to maybe a 6.75 or 7... but
can it be less than that????
Thanks,
Patrizia
268/234/150

I actually had a time with this after surgery. I would ask people
all the time how they thought God would feel about me altering His
original design. My husband reminded me that God allowed the
surgeons to gain the knowledge it would take to help repair what had
been damaged. God also guided the hand of my surgeon and if He felt
that this wasn't correct for me He surely would have made the outcome
different.
Now I still sometimes struggle with feelings of guilt for not taking
care of the body God had given me in the first place. I abused his
creation and that makes me feel even more guilty than trying to fix
what I had messed up. I would rather know that I had taken the steps
to make amends on something that I had ruined than to do nothing and
continue to let my vessel go to pot.
Toi

hi everyone
I had my surgery 7-8-03. I was bumped one day because a lap camera was broken
and had to sent out for repair,
But..........it didn't matter anyway, because the surgeon had to go open anyway.
I had adhesions on my small intestines from having my 2 kids by c-section and he
couldn't get to things well enough by lap.
so........ I spent about 5 hours being operated on and then went to recovery. As
I was waking up I knew immediately it was open, because I would feel the
bandage. I was disapointed, but oh well.
My gall bladder was icky so he removed it and otherwise everything went well. I
had back muscle spasms and front incision spasms from being on the operating
table so long. They gave me shots in the hospital for pain, muscle relaxers,
insulin, blood thinner-that's all I think. I am still having some back pain.
Now that i'm home I have percoset to take for pain, gas-X for gas and a muscle
relaxer. I also got a hot water bottle and a heating pad for my back and tummy.
My pain has all been on the surface of my incision and my back muscles. I have
had no deep inside pain. It surprised me, but .........................
I had to start a liquid diet 2 days prior to the surgery and felt like I was
starving, but now do not feel hungry at all.
The hospital gave me the following 3 times a day for meals. 2 oz. SF jello, 2
oz. boullion, 4 oz. SF carnation instant breakfast, and 3 oz. of a clear pink or
green protein drink called arganaid.
I am having trouble drinking a lot of water.
I had a heart monitor for 24 hours after my sirgery, an IV for fluid and
antibiotics, 2 drainage tubes,a topical incision thingy that I could push a
button to give me pain killer right on my incision-I think that' it. I felt
totally wired the first day.
Then I got my tubes out and felt so much better.
The whole experience was good, I loved the hospital-very clean, very nice, I
loved the nurses-so sweet.
I weighed before I left the hospital and had only lost 4 pounds---it that what a
gall bladder weighs---ha ha ha
I know I'm swolen wuite a bit and plan on weighing and measuring at my 2 week
follow up.
Sorry this is so long, just though I give you all an update.
Love,Michelle in OK
postie!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
7-8-03

Dear Kimberly,
Thanks for your post. I read all of your stuff too and am waiting anxiously
for your surgery date. I'm so excited for you. For me, I had the most
bizarre thing happen to me today. I went with my sister and daughter to
Target today and they scooter was not available (I still can't walk for the
length of time that I shop... I'm a mega shopper) so the security guard
offered me a wheelchair. When I saw the size of it, I said automatically,
ohmig-d! My fat a$$ is not gonna fit in that thing. He said, are you
kidding me, don't even go there... you're just fine. And I sat down in it
and I FIT! It's about 4" narrower than the one I use at home, so I was
shocked. My sister gave the usual lecture of having to see myself as others
see me... I thought I was doing okay in that department, but I guess not
great at it yet...
Dear Lori Anne,
I can design the graphic for our tee shirts if you like (in my former
professional life, I used to do that kind of thing). I also have great
connections to a promotions guy in Brooklyn that will give us a
good/reasonable deal on the shirts if you want. I'm so psyched about this
whole trip! Right now, I'm thinking of a woman's face (for the women) and a
guy's face (for the guys) smiling with a big "L" on the foreheads...
ROFLMAO... only kidding, but I'm up for suggestions. We could definitely do
a family reunion type shirt though... Whaddya think? Also, I'm only about
45 minutes from the city... maybe we could meet at some point prior to the
trip. I'll bring Zoe. You'll adore her (I don't let her out of my sight
either unless she's in school, so I know how you feel).
live each day like it's your last... love like you've never been hurt...
Deb in Hazlet, NJ
"Debbie Dancer"
distal rny
September 3, 2002
386/237/160?
BMI 60/35/24?
-149
-69.5"
Angel to Bill (8/14/03), Debbie (waiting for a date) Ilene (6/26/03), Roy
(7/29/03) and Ro

Hello all,
Thought that I would share a moment of success with you.
Today I bought a bicycle for the first time in more than 15 yrs.
I could actually ride it too!!!!! I am about 11 wks out from surgery
and am 2 lbs shy of 50 lbs lost. I am feeling well amd looking
forward to going on bike rides with my kids. They are very excited
too!!
Thanks,
Denise
Denver,Co
4-29-03
48 lbs gone forever.

Does anyone know any protein drinks without aspartame? Thanks -- Jody

Hi everyone,
My name is Denise and i am from VA. Looking to have WLS in Aug.
I am 24 yrs old, 5', and weigh 245lbs. I have a wonderful husband,
and 2 wonderful kids ages 3 and 5.
i have been doing research on gastric bypass for about a year now,
and up until last month didn't have the courage to call a surgeon.
But now i have met with the surgeon, the dietician, and tomorrow i
have my psych. consult. I hope to find a lot of support here on the
boards, as i don't have very much support here in my family.
Denise

Hello,
I am new to this group. I had wls in may of 2002. I have been experiancing some
stomache problems. Whenever I eat (I am at a 3/4 - 1 cup serving size) my
stomache gets upset and I end up taking Maalox. I can hear the gas rumbling in
my stomache. This has been going on for a week now. Is it cause for concern and
or should I see my surgeon?
Thank You
J.R.

Okay guys, I'd like to run something by you all...you are so well
informed. :)
First of all, tonight when I had my bubblie bath in that jucuzzi we
talked about earlier, I noticed for the first time that my belly is
no where near the water...can you say BIG????? So I'm not too
worried about problems with getting my new incision wet...at least
not for a while and by the time it's an issue, it won't be an issue.
LOL
Okay, here is my plan for helping with getting the water in for
me...another one of those who can NOT drink plain water very well.
It doesn't need to have much taste to it, so would it be okay just
to put a tiny bit of Crystal Light in it for taste/flavor, just not
use it full strength? This is what my surgeon suggests to me but if
it's just going to convert to surgers in me, I don't want it....
Also, does caffeine free herbal teas count?
Any suggestions for getting those fluids in I'd most appreciate.
Also, what time to you slow down on them so you're not up peeing all
night?
Debby in WI

Hi Deb, Kimberely and everyone :)
For me, I haven't really changed in size tremendously yet to REALLY
tell a difference, but one thing I am noticing is that when I type
out my current weight, my fingers are wanting to type 340 or 350 and
then I have to backspace to put in 310 :) I've got a LONG way to go
with this weight loss, yet at the same time, to think I've already
lost 25% of my excess body weight is pretty darn cool! Sool I'll be
just "morbidly obese" as opposed to "super obese" LOL
:) Caroline
Lap RNY 5/2/03
367/310/150
www.tinyurl.com/bkld
PS: Started my period today and am PRAYING that this doesn't mean I
get to plateau again for another week or two which is what has
happened the last two times following my periods. Does this happen
to anyone else and is there anything I can do to keep losing during
my period?

Dear Beth,
Ohmig-d! You poor soul... I can't imagine what it must be like for you
managing a Dairy Queen. The only reason I'd be able to do it is 'cause I
don't like their ice cream (ooops! Sorry!). I'm sitting here sipping my
2nd shake of the day because I just hurled my entire meal. I can't figure
out why because I don't do this often. I only had 2 eggs (hard boiled) and
1 bite of a cheeseburger. It stayed down for all of one hour and then out
it came (sorry guys). So, rather than try and eat something else tonight
(it's already 10:45 p.m. here), I'm having a 2nd shake. At least that way I
know I will have gotten in 75 grams of protein today.
I'm glad you weren't offended and remember, sometimes people just tell you
you're okay because they think that's what you want to hear, but with this
surgery, the numbers we need to get to (i.e. protein level, fluid level) are
critical for us to remain healthy and not put ourselves at risk.
As for the drinking, can you get a water bottle in a fanny pack contraption
or something like that where it's with you all the time and you only have to
unhook it from your belt, take a sip and put it back? Busy as you are, I
think something like that might be doable. It's better than going 9 hours
"dry" or grabbing at something unhealthy. Just a thought.
Be well and don't stress too much about the job. You'll find your comfort
level for how to handle the situation and everything will fall into place
for you.
live each day like it's your last... love like you've never been hurt...
Deb in Hazlet, NJ
"Debbie Dancer"
distal rny
September 3, 2002
386/237/160?
BMI 60/35/24?
-149
-69.5"
Angel to Bill (8/14/03), Debbie (waiting for a date) Ilene (6/26/03), Roy
(7/29/03) and Ro

Hey guys,
Has anyone "seen" or heard from Carol Ann (Homeschoolmom)? I haven't seen a
post from her in the longest time and was wondering how she's doing...
live each day like it's your last... love like you've never been hurt...
Deb in Hazlet, NJ
"Debbie Dancer"
distal rny
September 3, 2002
386/237/160?
BMI 60/35/24?
-149
-69.5"
Angel to Bill (8/14/03), Debbie (waiting for a date) Ilene (6/26/03), Roy
(7/29/03) and Ro

I was able to have sugar free popcycles, diluted grape, cranberry and apple
juices (half water, half juice), water, broth (loved the veggie Swansons),
protien drinks, decalf teas (I was a coffee fiend before surgery, so I just up
and quit it) chewed on ice chips...really you cant get much down at first so for
me, this was plenty.
Angie
Lap RNY

Welcome to the group Denise, you WILL find the support you are looking for here.
Its a great group and no one knows wls.....like posties do!
Hang in there girl, I didnt get alot of support either, but now I hear alot of
compliments and well wishes. In my case, people were concerned for my health
and well being, didnt quite know how to respond to my news of the upcoming
surgery....etc.
You are doing something that will change your life.
Glad to have you onboard!
Angie
Lap RNY
05/29/03
280/238/?

Hello,
This email message is a notification to let you know that
a file has been uploaded to the Files area of the Gastric_Bypass_Family
group.
File : /GBS FAMILY WALT DISNEY WORLD 2004 RESERVATION QUESTIONNAIRE.doc
Uploaded by : grimmlah1 <Grimmlah1@...
Description : Gastric Bypass Family Walt Disney World Reservation
Questionnaire
You can access this file at the URL

Hello to all,
My name is Samantha. I will be having surgery
August 20th in Fresno CA.
I came across this page and I think it is wonderful.
Lots of positive and helpful people. I will be looking for lots of
support when my surgery comes. Anyone feel free to e-mail me. I love
to chat.
Thanks Samantha

Hi Deb,
The only reason I can manage a DQ is because I never really was a
fan of ice cream my whole life. I do like DQ ice cream, but ice
cream was not like a "target" food that I crave, I absolutely never
crave ice cream. Mainly I crave salty foods, chips and stuff, and
mexican food. I work in Virginia Beach, not too far from the
oceanfront, so we are very very busy. My store is a limited brazier
store, I only have ice cream, hot dogs, and bbq, so luckily I dont
have to deal with the fries and burgers. Not yet anyway, I may be
promoted to a new store that is being built, which will have
breakfast and everything. I still have to figure out a way with the
water. Im not sure how the fanny pack will work, I move around so
much at work, I am on my feet almost the entire time I am there,
except when I am counting money. And I am right there in front of
customers also, making sure my drive through time stays down, we are
just constantly going. It isnt considered excersize I guess, since I
have been doing that for two years, I suppose I need to move more on
top of what I do, but when I get home I just want to sit down and veg
out. And in the morning before work, I want to sleep in as long as
possible. I get off so late, and get home so late, and I NEED my
sleep, if I dont get enough I am no good to myself at all. Anyway, I
have a few barriers to overcome, but I guess I will figure them out.
Thanks again.
Beth
4/29/03
266/224/140

Hello to all,
I first have to laugh because back in May my DH and I bought new
bikes, I ride regularly and enjoy the time I can spend with my
husband and children. But two great things happened when I bought the
bike 1st when I was testing the bikes I ask my husband how I looked
from behind and he laughed telling me he could see the seat!! I was
thrilled with that one!! The next day I went to ride with my my
children and one of my six year olds starts yelling out as loud as he
can "she is doing it she can ride a bike" my neighbors and family
could not stop laughing again it made the surgery soooo worth it.
As for my journey it has been slow, the hospital stay and
recovery for all you soon to be on the other side is no picnic but
either is being fat..I am ten months out and I have 40lbs to go till
my goal..I have only lost the best 72lbs of my life and would never
ever of loss them without the surgery..I will never be a bathing
queen but man I have the self confidence of one! I also did not tell
many family members or friends I was having the surgery and when I
did I lucked out, support a plentiful..except mom she calls me the
next morning to make sure I knew I was not going to eat the same
again! Ya Think! (mom's a nurse) My dad now tells me how afraid he
was for me about the surgery but so proud I went through with it. I
have found that most people have figured it out or when I have told
them they are happy for me. I have enjoyed starting some
conversations about the surgery and listening to all the Bull about
the weak and people should have more will power and then I say really
I had that surgery and I feel differently and watch people scramble
to save face...I like doing that..entertainment of sorts. I would go
through that hospital stay ten times to be able to wear shorts all
summer and not feel ugly and fat, had to get damn hot in the past.
I celabrated coming out of morbid obesity and plan to go out for
drinks soon to celabrate my entry to overwieght..people think I am
nuts but I know you all understand it! Enough with the rambling at
1:45 in the morning....Take care to all and remember the short week
of pain is sooo worth giving up the lifetime of pain we would of
experienced without the surgery...By the way anyone else from
Connecticut?
Thanks for letting me ramble you are all very special to my journey.
Linda
9/16/02
284/212/170

I was just wondering for you post-oper's, What was your last meal
before having surgery? What was the first thing you ate after being
told you could have solids?
My last meals were for lunch 3 days before surgery, my hubby took me
to Pizza Hut for some BBQ Pizza. I Love that stuff! My very most
favorite thing in the world. And than the weekend before surgery (4
days pre-op) he took me out to Chili's and I had fajita's and some of
his steak and ribs, lol.
I'm still on liquids for another 3 weeks, but I'll let you know what
I eat.
Jayme

Hi Lori Anne,
Funny but I'm finding more and more in common with you! Yes, I've got a tee
shirt connection and if one of us does the graphic (I'm volunteering unless
someone else wants to do it), we'll save by providing our own camera ready
artwork. I used to have a word processesing/graphic design business and I
shared space with this promotions guy. His prices are great and he's got
most of the school systems in the city, and as far away as Alaska tied up.
I had my honeymoon at Disney 10 years ago. We did the parks for 3 days and
the ship to the Bahamas for 4 days. It was wonderful. We killed ourselves
in the park first and vegged on the ship so we came home fairly rested (how
rested can you get on a honeymoon anyway????) ROFLMAO.
I'm so glad this trip is taking off like this. Of the choices you offered,
I like Christmas best. Not to mention being out of this frigid weather for
a week is great, but if next winter is like this past winter, I KNOW I'll be
thrilled to be outta here, man!
live each day like it's your last... love like you've never been hurt...
Deb in Hazlet, NJ
"Debbie Dancer"
distal rny
September 3, 2002
386/237/160?
BMI 60/35/24?
-149
-69.5"
Angel to Bill (8/14/03), Debbie (waiting for a date) Ilene (6/26/03), Roy
(7/29/03) and Ro

Has nyone in thi group had surgery with Dr Gomez in Miami FL
Vanessa

I'm just outside New Orleans and go to WMC at St. Charles General. The first
time around the "treatment team" didn't approve me because the shrink said I
was depressed. Well, at 360 lbs with many co-morbities, who the hell wouldn't
be depressed. So I did what he asked that I do and yesterday the team
finally approved me and my case will be going to insurance next week. I have
UnitedHealth Care and I've heard they respond very quickly, so I have to start
my 2
weeks on liquids only now. Hopefully I'll be joining the other side really
soon.
Hazel

Hi,
As much as I value the help from the 1 pre-op person, this is just like the
other support group I used to be a member of, not much help, especially from you
POSTIES.
Where is the support??????????????????
Thanks for mostly nothing.
J.R.

Enter your vote today! A new poll has been created for the
Gastric_Bypass_Family group:
First Annual Gastric Bypass Family
Group Walt Disney World Vacation
Planning Questionnaire :) Question 1:
Which dates would you prefer to go to
Disneyland? (please choose one only.)
o A. JULY 31, 2004 AUGUST 7, 2004 , Summer Recess
o B. AUGUST 14, 2004 AUGUST 21, 2004 , Summer Recess
o C. DECEMBER 19, 2004 - DECEMBER 26, 2004, Winter Recess
o I am not interested in attending at this time.
To vote, please visit the following web page:

Enter your vote today! A new poll has been created for the
Gastric_Bypass_Family group:
First Annual Gastric Bypass Family
Group Walt Disney World Vacation
Planning Questionnaire :) Question 3:
Do you think we should have t-shirts
for this event and if so, what should
be printed on them?
o I want the t-shirts to say "GBS Family - be a loser too!"
o I want the t-shirts to say "Welcome to the other side!"
o I want the t-shirts to say "The losing side of life!"
o I have a great idea for the t-shirt's slogan and will email Lori at
grimmlah1@... with it.
o I don't think we should have t-shirts for the event.
o I am not interested in attending the event at this time.
To vote, please visit the following web page:

Enter your vote today! A new poll has been created for the
Gastric_Bypass_Family group:
First Annual
Gastric Bypass Family Group Walt
Disney World Vacation Planning
Questionnaire Question 2 -
Which would be your prefered lodging
selection for Walt Disney World onsite
resorts? (Those staying on site I can
arrange for a group rate if enough
people participate. Members can also
make off site arrangements on their
own and just meet up in the parks for
the festivities.)
o Walt Disney World All Star Movie Resort Lowest Rates
o Walt Disney World Coronado Resort Moderate Rates
o Walt Disney World Port Orleans Resort Moderate Rates
o I will plan to stay offsite and meet up in the park for the festivities.
o I am not interested in attending at this time.
To vote, please visit the following web page:

Hello,
This email message is a notification to let you know that
a file has been uploaded to the Files area of the Gastric_Bypass_Family
group.
File : /GBS Walt Disney World 2004 Reservation Planning Form
Uploaded by : carolineam_cat <carolineam_cat@...
Description : Here's the form to complete in all text for those without MS
Word :) Please feel free to copy and paste this along with your answers into an
email, and send it to Lori at grimmlah1@...
You can access this file at the URL

I just got done watching a show on discovery heath channel it is called "I lost
it!" It shows two people each episode that have lost weight. Pretty good show.
The one girl who had WLS has a way to keep from eating more that one bite of
something she shouldn't. She showers the rest of the bad food with pepper. I
like that idea
Chris B.
Surgery date 7/23/03
BTC/ Columbus OH
Dr.Stelmack
Open RNY

Hi Lori Anne :)
Polls all completed and I also created a text file version of your
reservation form for people to complete and email to you (found in
the files section :)
Everyone,
PLEASE be sure to cast your vote in the 3 new polls ASAP! (as found
in our group's Polls section at

Lori Anne
OOOH I hope I don't get any incisional henias. I've had incisional muscle
spasms and they are so painful. I wanted the lap also, but then had to go open
about halfway through the procedure, so I have both sets of scars. I've had 2
csections and have huge stretch marks, so.............it's already a battlefield
down there.
You sound like you've really read and researched this, good luck on the 25th.
Michelle in OK

I wonder if any of you have run in to this: My hospital/surgeons
claim they offer Lap RNY to their patients. A co-worker of mine in
the ER, her mom is a PACU nurse in our hospital (post anesthesia
recovery unit) and she has mentioned that not ONE of our surgeons
patients ever gets the Lap, they always end up with open. I would
REALLY like to take as little of time off from work as possible for
this and think that is most possible wiht the Lap version of the RNY.
What can I do, if anything, to make my odds better for this
happening? Do I outright ask my surgeons why it is like this? I work
with these guys (they are trauma surgeons here in ER as well) and
feel comfortable but don't want to tick off the hand that will feed
me so to speak..they ARE Drs you know (grin).
Suggestions?
Debby in WI
3 weeks and counting till d-day

Wow!! You guys sure have different breaks from school!!
We are out on summer break right now. May 20-Aug 5
We start back to school the 5th of Aug and have a fall break starting
on October 14,for a week. Things are different everywhere. :)
Lindy G

What about using our family logo for the shirts? The butterfly
Pamela
11/19/02
116+ lbs gone!!
Miami

Please join our group Miami WLS for everyone who has had RNY or Lap

Dang give us a chance to respond before you attack. I and im sure
alot of other people were out last night and just getting to the
posts now. And I did respond to you and im NOT a pre op. You will get
the support you want but not with post like this. RELAX some!
Pamela
11/19/02
116+ lbs gone!!
Miami

It's been awhile since I have posted. Welcome to all the new people and good
luck to those of you that will be having your surgery soon. Omar has been
doing good. When he went for his three month post-op visit he was down to 406..a
119 pound loss!!!! That was almost 3 weeks ago and we are sure he has lost
more. I'm so very proud of him. He still has a long way to go but every pound
gone
means he's that much closer to the life he wants to live.
As for the Disney trip Omar and I are already in Orlando so you can count us
in! We live about 5 miles from Universal and one of my best friends works at
Disney so he gets us in on his pass. ( I wish I go could get all of you in
also) Lori Anne, if you would like for me to get anything as far as
brochures/maps/attraction info just let me know. There are a bunch of places
around here
where I can get all sorts of stuff. If anyone has any questions about Orlando
feel free to email me and I will try my hardest to get answers for you.
Thanks,
Dawn

6.5 ring? sheesh, i was wearing a size 10..snug! My class ring from college,
I bought a size 9 and wore it on my thumb since it was too tight. It now
fits nicely on my right ring finger, and I can wear an 8 comfortably. I am only
4.5 months out, so I don't know if they will continue to shrink, but I hope
so!
Also, you mentioned being tired suddenly. After I had surgery, I had lots of
energy (just not the ability) but I had open so couldn't too very much, other
than walking. However, about 4 weeks out, I started getting exhausted with
little things. I would have to lie down after taking a shower. I asked my
doctor about it, and he said this was normal. The anesthesia in your body lasts
for quite awhile. The effects are wearing off and your body is in shock to
the trauma it experienced. The best thing you can do is listen to your body and
rest when you get tired. When your resting is when your body is healing.
Also, you didn't mention it, but we should be taking B-12 as well. It is
supposed to help with energy levels. Best of luck to you and congrats on your
weight loss so far!
Chrissy
Open RNY 02/19/03
310/223

You go girl, with the vacation planning! LOL About how much are we
talking... ballpark figure? I just want to know how much to plan on saving,
because I
have never been and I really want to. But I also have to add in air fare.
Also, I will prolly be on my own, so if there's any other lonely girls out there
that need a roommate... let me know!
chrissy--Disney bound!
OpenRNY 02/19/03
310/223

Omar must be on cloud 9! He is doing great!! Im so happy for him
Pamela
11/19/02
116+ lbs gone!!
Miami

I have been reading some previous posts regarding B-12. I'm a little confused.
Some say we have to have it and others say if we have had the open RNY, it won't
do us any good.
Any accurate info would be appreciated. I'm trying to get everything together
that I'm going to need after surgery.
Linda
Garland, TX
Dr. Alexander/July 28th

I can relate to your experience at H&R. When I was taking college courses,
they had those little half desks, where the chair is connected to the little
table desk. Yeah, I just BARELY fit in them and getting out was always an
effort. The entire class i would be looking to see all the sapce between some
girls stomach and the desk all the while seeing mine on top of the desk! But
never would I have asked for alternate seating... fortunately, I think they ahve
replaced all of those now. The other thing I hated, some of my classes were on
the third floor, and of course-no elevator. I would have to get there early
just to walk around and catch my breath before going in, so I didn't appear so
out of shape to others. I certainly will not miss those days!!!
Chrissy
OpenRNY 02/19/03
310/223

but I'm just five days away, and very easily confused! Can we talk
about GAS? What do you think is the best product for the gas
pains? And do you use liquid or chewables? I thought it was
interesting what someone wrote about walking it off. I haven't
heard that one before. Makes me laugh though because if I eat too
many carbs now and get all gassy, each step I take is followed by a
little poot! LOL
-Gina

My surgery date is 7/29/03. I am getting a little nervous. I had to
go have preop testing and they told me that one of my test came back
that i might possibly have stomach ulcers. So now i have to have an
endoscopy(spelling?) where they put a scope down your throat. I also
have to have an upper gi. I was wondering if anyone had to go
through this and how it was. I am terrified of the scope going down
my throat.
Roseann
Pre op surgery 7/29/03

Welcome Home girl! So glad you have posted to let us know how you are doing!
Meal suggestions...hmmm.. well my mommy would probably be better help since
I didn't cook anything in the beginning. She did make me yummy smoothie. She
used half a banana and like 2 strawberries, some plain yogurt, protein powder
and some splenda to sweeten. You can make several servings from this. Also,
I haven't tried it, but seems like you could freeze it even for treats. I
drank lots of tea in the beginning, and when able, v8. I craved salty things
and tomatoey things...hehe Hand blenders are wonderful! My mom made her
"gibletless gravy" (chicken rather than giblets... and she pureed all the
chicken
and eggs in it for me. I can't stand the texture of pureed foods, but it still
tasted wonderful, and had lots of good protein. Basically, you can puree
anything that sounds good! We are eating so little it probably wouldn't hurt,
just make sure it is smooth in texture and completely pureed. Please keep us
posted on how you are doing, I am so excited for you!
Chrissy
OpenRNY 02/19/03
310/223

These guys have got to be the stupidest people on the planet. To hear
them tell it, just follow their "suggestions" or links and we'll all
be rich, have no debt, charge all we want on our credit cards and not
be bugged when we cannot pay, have the tightest tight vaginas and
huge penis's, loose all the weight we could ever want to loose, make
a million outta nothing, and on and on ad nauseum. Sheesh! Lots of
these idiots are out there too. Go figure!

Well today was my 2nd psych. consult. I had one yesterday with my own psych.
but he was not supportive of the surgery. said my bipolar would give me too
much trouble, and that it would prevent me from absorbing my meds for it. so
today i went for a 2nd opinion and everything went great. So one more thing
down next thing is my visit with the surgeon for a specific date probably next
month sometime.
Denise

I agree, I am rooting for Xmas as well (can we vote more than once..lol) I
dont' have kids to consider... just think it would be a cool place to be for
Christmas. I never take vacations so this will be great. Who knows, if we're
talking X-mas 2004 maybe I'll have someone to share it by then..hehe I can't
even imagine what my life is going to be like that far down the road, but I
sincerely hope it is filled with happiness... what more can one ask for out of
life?
Chrissy
OpenRNY 02/19/03
310/223

Soooo we're talking December (possibly) 2004... My son will be 13
going on 14. Your daughter will be 15 going on (25 lol) 16...
Aaaaaaaarrrrrrgggggg!!!! My son is already one big raging hormone at
12 and luuuuuuvs older women. We may need to stay in separate
COUNTIES!!! especially if your daughter resembles you (you're a
beauty, :o).
Since hubby wont fly it would just be Devin and I so we'll have to
make sure there are some strooooong authoritative figures along to
keep our big-britches kids in line, lol.
December 2004 will be my 2 yr re-birth anniversary and I can't think
of a better way to celebrate and reward myself than with a trip to be
with my great family and friends. Thanks for the suggestion.
Your fiancee is in Colorado??? Kewl, any chance your moving out our
way?
Toi

I had open performed, and my doctor advised me to take the B-12 sublingually
once a week. I have not heard that people who had open could not take it....
it is the same procedure as lap? Anyways, my best advice would be to speak to
you doctor about it. All doctors have different regimens and requirements.
Chrissy
OpenRNY 02/19/03
310/223

That is so awesome of you to help out, we can get a real perspective on the
hoppin places out there! What about night life? I'm a single chick, and
hopefully a hot single chick by then..hehe.. and I love to go dancing. Would
love
any ideas you have on things to do at night :)
Chrissy
OpenRNY 02/19/03
310/223

Good for you obtaining a second opinion. I would head the advice of your
first doctor, and maybe see that as an area you will need to pay special
attention to after the surgery and monitor, but I have heard several success
stories
from people with Bipolar who have this surgery. i'm glad you didn't let that
setback keep you down. Best of luck to you and keep us posted!!
Chrissy
OpenRNY 02/19/03
310/223

WOOHOO, I can't wait to get in front of a camera next year!!! And me, I'm a
goofy kinda girl..hehe. So a picture with him will be puurrfect!! I'm so
excited, I have printed the questionnaire, but haven't filled it out, I will do
that soon as I finish this! :) And yes, I plan on running you and any other
cohort all over that place cuz I've never been and I want to see it ALL!!!
(((((Lori Anne))))))
Chrissy--goofy's girl!
Open RNY 02/19/03
310/223

Hi,
My name is Kelly and I am in the process of getting my stuff together for my
surgery. My husband is in the military and because there is such a demand for
this surgery, they are sending me out to the civilian world. For this, I am
so excited because my wait will not be as long as if I were to use the
military. I am doing this for the same reason that most everyone does this...I
am
sick of hurting and feeling like dirt. My husband is very supportive of this
and so is my family but they are so far away!! My sister has a surgery date for
August 12th and I know that she is going to do fantastic! Well, I am sorry
to bore all of you, just wanted to say hi!
*~*~Kelly~*~*
Visit my babies: <A
HREF="www.geocities.com/kellsmastiffs"
also visit: <A HREF="www.geocities.com/trek9va"

hehe, Lori Anne, you are such a nut! My advice (as I am sure you will), when
you are given permission from your doctor for solids, try one out. See how
much you can tolerate. I have a feeling your tastes will change. But like I
said before, I still enjoy my burritos, but I only need one or two bites with
the tortilla, and then I just eat out the yummy insides. However, I ate a
quesadilla from Taco Bueno the other day (yes, healthy I know)... I only had one
triangle..so really it was four meals, but hey! I ate the tortilla and all.
Chrissy
OpenRNY 02/19/03
310/223

Hi Lori :)
Did you catch my post about the spammer who needs to be removed from
the group? As another question, would Di, Pam and you consider
making the members list private and available to the moderators
only? I don't feel comfortable knowing that someone can join and
easily harvest email addresses to send spam to.
Many thanks :)
Caroline

Oh girl, I am so sorry to hear that happened to you! That was always my
worst fear, I would usually be like the last person to leave the class, just to
avoid that kind of scene, just in case. Its amazing how long you can take to
put stuff in your backpack when your stalling! There were times when the desk
tried to come with me..hehe..but i was able to wrangle out of it before I
actually took a step...but it sometimes made some noise. Just think though...
we
won't have to endure this anymore!! YAY!!!
Chrissy---I will fear NO chair
OpenRNY 02/19/03
310/223

I was lucky and didn't have this test, the endoscopy, but at my last local
support meeting I found out my surgeon now requires that of all his patients
prior to the surgery. From the stories told, it is not that bad. In fact, one
girl there actually had the procedure that day. She seemed find, said she was
a little tired from the anesthesia, but could talk and interact just fine, so
I'm sure it will be (stealing this from another member, sorry can't remember
who exactly to credit) a piece of SF cake!
Chrissy
OpenRNY 02/19/03
310/223

Congrats on finishing school? What are you studying?? And I can relate, the
auditorium we had was no better. Small seats, and then the desk tables fit
down the side, so when I would take it out...ahhh more room, but then the desk
would sit completely flat b/c my legs were in the way! LOL I HATED the seating
there. We also had mandatory chapel every day (Christian University) in the
gymnasium, and those seats were not very accomodating either. I used to get
so jealous of people who seemed to have so much room to spare and could tuck
their legs up under them and stuff... grrrrr
Chrissy
OpenRNY 02/19/03
310/223

My doctor never mentioned anything about shrinking the liver
either...although I guess with an Open thats not required. But I have heard a
lot of
different preps people go through prior to surgery. I am thankful mine was so
easy.
I was dreading having to drink all that stuff and spending the entire day
inthe bathroom....but my doctor didn't require that. Just the liquids all day
tuesday and nothing after midnight and my surgery was wednesday. The only
pre-op
testing required was the gallbladder ultrasound (which mine was fine, so I
still have it), and the psych eval. Although I just found out at the last local
support group (my surgeon and his partner are the only ones who perform the
surgery in this entire area--the next nearest is about 3 hrs away) that they
now require an NG tube/scope...something where they stick a tube down your
throat into your stomach, b/c onf of their assistants had the surgery in March
and
ended up with a stricture and complications, so they require that from all
patients prior to surgery now to hopefully avoid it. Performing this is
relatively new for them, since May of last year, but they're record has been
wonderful. My surgeon, I have learned, is also training and is going to start
performing the reconstructive surgeries as well. I'm excited, because I really
like
him and he's already fully aware of my medical history, and in a year and a
half he should have lots of experience :) I know it's vain but I want it all
tucked, lifted and lipo'd. How I'm going to pay for it, not sure yet, but I'll
figure something out. My friend managed to get our insurance to pay for all of
it somehow and she didn't have WLS (she didn't qualify). I also found out,
my insurance that covered my entire surgery, post-op care, pre-op care, pre-op
testing for $25 dollars, is writing in WLS as a contract exclusion effective
Jan 1st. Glad I got in when I did!
chrissy
openrny 02/19/03
310/223

Reminder Reminder from the Calendar of Gastric_Bypass_Family
Weekly Group Chat!!
Monday July 14, 2003
7:00 pm - 10:00 pm
This event repeats every week.
The next reminder for this event will be sent in 1 day, 22 hours, 4 minutes.
Notes:

Lori Anne,
I purchased one of these upon the suggestion of my surgeons assistant (she is
wonderful, I just love her--even though she's a skinny minnie..hehe) but i
never used it. In fact, I think it is still in the thingee it came in. It
probably would be helpful now for the problems you were eluding to... i just
never
think about it since ive never had one. Guess I will have to dig it out :)
Anyways, they do say that it should help the tummy after surgery, especially
with open.
chrissy
OpenRNY 02/19/03
310/223

i am going to be moving to fresno cali and there is a surgeon that
will do it its just my grandma said i cant come out till in
september
and to brian thanks so much
and about the disney trip i would love to go but its expensive and i
have to worry about getting there and parents and possibly grad
parents

Hi Jayme
So glad to see you posting girl! How are you feeling? I understand you had
a rocky start., but I'm glad to see you are doing better :)
My last meal, my mom and I went to Abuelos, its a mexican food restaurant
here in Abilene. I ordered my favorite, chicken fajita chimichanga and some
fruity alcoholic drink. BUT, I had horrible allergies/head cold, so i couldn't
taste ANY of it...except the alcohol in the drink, which was apparantly
plentiful. All flavors were non-existent, which was really disheartening! But,
I'm
over it now. I haven't ordered that since then, since it is more than I could
ever eat, but I really love enchiladas. This other mexican restaurant here
(can you tell I'm a fan...which is wierd because I wasn't until just recently)
has a lunch menu that has one enchilada, rice and beans. I eat about 3/4 of
the chicken enchilada and some of the beans and skip the rice. Yummy! Oh yeah,
and free queso! woohoo cheese! LOL My first thing I ate when allowed solids
(I'm guessing your not including the scrambled egg phase)hmm... I think it was
tuna...my mom was always shoving the protein down me..gotta love mommies! My
first eating out experience, was (you guessed it) Abuelos, but it didn't go
so well. I went with a friend and ordered enchiladas, but didn't keep any of
it down. Haven't tried them there since then.
Chrissy
OpenRNY 02/19/03
310/223

Hi everyone.....
I just wanted to share something that I found out today. Braum's fat free
milk has 50% more protein than other brands of fat free milk - Braums has 12
grams as opposed to 8 in the others. For someone like me, who drinks a lot of
milk, those 4 extra grams really add up and make it easier to get to protein
goal.
~ami~
Lap RNY 5-13-03
261/234.7/??

hi dawn, congrats are in order for omar's wl, awesome!

hey:-) yep i'm the s/f chick.
lori h.

Thanks! Think we could use it for our t-shirt slogan?? LOL
Chrissy---still fearing NO chairs
open RNY 02/19/03
310/223

Disney sounds like a nice place for everyone here that has a special someone,
and/or kids, but please remember that a few of us here haven't been that
blessed or lucky. We don't have a spouse and/or kids (I personally don't have
either), so Disney might not be that appealing to us.
I'm positive it is GREAT for those of you with children, but for those of us
who don't, it's just another reminder of what we do NOT have...
Just my take on things.
If any single people here without kids would like to get together and plan
something, please email me privately and let me know. There HAS to be things for
us to do that don't center on families.
Kimmie
Lap RNY 12/19/02
343/219/135

Dear Denise,
It's Beth who's in Virginia Beach, not me. I'm in New Jersey.
live each day like it's your last... love like you've never been hurt...
Deb in Hazlet, NJ
"Debbie Dancer"
distal rny
September 3, 2002
386/237/160?
BMI 60/35/24?
-149
-69.5"
Angel to Bill (8/14/03), Debbie (waiting for a date) Ilene (6/26/03), Roy
(7/29/03) and Ro

Dear J.R.,
I don't know what to tell you about your problem. Sometimes walking will
shake the gas loose. If you're that uncomfortable, call your doctor. I
know that Milk of Magnesia has been used by some, as has gas-x and a few
other anti-gas remedies, but fortunately for me, that's one problem I
haven't had so I really can't answer you.
live each day like it's your last... love like you've never been hurt...
Deb in Hazlet, NJ
"Debbie Dancer"
distal rny
September 3, 2002
386/237/160?
BMI 60/35/24?
-149
-69.5"
Angel to Bill (8/14/03), Debbie (waiting for a date) Ilene (6/26/03), Roy
(7/29/03) and Ro

Dear Linda,
B-12 is absolutely essential following weight loss surgery. You can cause
irreversible neurological problems for yourself if you become deficient in
it. We have problems absorbing the b-12 if it's in pill or capsule form,
but you can get it through a shot or you can take it sublingually, under
your tongue. You need to see your blood test results every 3 months and
follow your trends so you know what you're absorbing and how you're doing.
I know I'm absorbing B-12 because my level was 2000 (way too high) when the
range should be 700-1100. I had to adjust down the amount I was taking, but
you definitely need to take it and you definitely will absorb it by either
shots or under your tongue.
live each day like it's your last... love like you've never been hurt...
Deb in Hazlet, NJ
"Debbie Dancer"
distal rny
September 3, 2002
386/237/160?
BMI 60/35/24?
-149
-69.5"
Angel to Bill (8/14/03), Debbie (waiting for a date) Ilene (6/26/03), Roy
(7/29/03) and Ro

Hi Wendy,
Welcome home. Yes, the gas is normal and usually walking as much as you can
will aid in it disipating. It may be a little too soon to lay flat on your
back or side. Either sleep in a recliner for a few days or prop yourself up
on some pillows.
live each day like it's your last... love like you've never been hurt...
Deb in Hazlet, NJ
"Debbie Dancer"
distal rny
September 3, 2002
386/237/160?
BMI 60/35/24?
-149
-69.5"
Angel to Bill (8/14/03), Debbie (waiting for a date) Ilene (6/26/03), Roy
(7/29/03) and Ro

Hi Debbie
Here are some of the slogans that people have submitted (including you and
me) for the tee shirts and some of the graphics submitted, I will keep you up to
date with all that I receive.
1. Debbie:
zoes.mom@... - GBF Annual Family Reunion - I'm Just a Big Loser
2. Lori Anne:
grimmlah1@... - GBF Annual Family Reunion - Be A Loser Too
Graphic Selection: Some type of Rainbow - symbolizes a promise of a better
tomorrow after the storm.
3. Patricia:
reev7056@... - WLS: Losers Win!
4. Pamela:
psk1957@... - Graphic Selection: What about using our family logo for
the shirts? The Butterfly
Hi Caroline
Perhaps you can include these slogans and graphic suggestions in a poll at
the site and I will update you with any more that I receive.
You Ladies are the best
((((((((((Debbie)))))))))))) (((((((((Caroline))))))))))))
Lori Anne

Hi Everyone,
I just joined the group and have already learned so much from you
all! I have struggled with weight gain since I was a child. Yo-yo
dieting, extreme exercise - I've done it all.
I just got initial approval for a WLS program and have started the
long process. My Dr. says if I complete the program, surgery
probably won't be till winter. That's OK, because I really need to
go through all the steps to be successful.
I am worried about something though....Will I really be able to eat
just a cup of food each meal for the rest of my life? Will I be able
to get enough nutrition to HELP prevent other diseases like cancer
and heart disease? I would love to hear how other long term, post-
WLS-patients are doing with this. I know that I have to completely
change my mindset - eat to live instead of living to eat!
Thanks for your opinions!
Alicia
287

Ok, guys. I am suffering, terribly. I drink my water like I'm
supposed to. I have also been taking Dulcosate. I need some help. Any
ideas before I am too miserable that I have to contact my surgeon?

Hi all,
I got my initial approval from my insurance company, but I need two
things.
1. Doctor's letter of medical necessity, and
2. Proof that I have tried something in the last year that was
unsuccessful.
Well, the letter won't be a problem. But, the last thing I tried was
Weight Watchers. I lost 50 pounds but then gained it back. The
problem is that WW throws away all charts after 3 weeks!
Now I don't know what to do. Is my insurance company going to make me
go through WW all over again???
Thanks!
Mark

Hi Denise,
My surgeon is Eric Yancey, who is yours? Have you had surgery
yet? I had been stuck on 224 for about a week and a half, and guess
what? I am now 220!!!!!! I am happy.
Beth
4/29/03
266/220/140

Dear Friends,
I have just read and signed the online petition:
"Weight Loss Surgery "
hosted on the web by PetitionOnline.com, the free online petition
service, at:
http://www.PetitionOnline.com/07221976/
I personally agree with what this petition says, and I think you might
agree, too. If you can spare a moment, please take a look, and
consider signing yourself. This would help Thousands of people just like
me. Please try to get as many people to sign as you can. Forward this to
everyone. We need 50 thousand signatures and right now we only have about
5000.
live each day like it's your last... love like you've never been hurt...
Deb in Hazlet, NJ
"Debbie Dancer"
distal rny
September 3, 2002
386/237/160?
BMI 60/35/24?
-149
-69.5"
Angel to Bill (8/14/03), Debbie (waiting for a date) Ilene (6/26/03), Roy
(7/29/03) and Ro