brendagold’s Posts
Topic: RE: 9 yrs and counting
Post Date: 7/3/12 5:15 pm
Hi Everyone!! been soooo long that I had forgotten my pass word and how this thing works..lol
I attended a party Saturday evening where I ran in to a friend who had surgery..she asked me if I ever get on this site..I just don't have the time these days between my 6 grandchildren (4 and under)..very busy stressful job. and both my kids graduating with a masters this year..My daughter from University of Cincinnati and my son from Harvard....
9 yrs ago in June I had RNY bypass surgery..10 yrs ago I was sure I would never see any of the above mentioned, I knew I was going to die.. My surgeon left the area not long after my surgery, so I often considered myself a WLS orphan. I have changed so much over the years. seen and experienced much. some I am so proud of and much very difficult ...I lost both my parents to lung cancer..two cousins to breast cancer ..very difficult times..more surgery a year and a half ago .
I have been ask how I have done so well over the years..well I back up once in awhile and ask myself if the path I am taking is the one I am happy with... Did I set myself up for failure?..a very good friend told me once...you may not be able to control what is going on around you...but always remember only YOU can control the way you handle it...soooo true.
good luck folks and don';t give anyone else credit for your success...you work to hard to give that to a doctor..friend or family member..YOU CAN DO THIS!!!.
See ya all when I celebrate 10 yrs ...next year..lol
oh and can anyone tell me how to change a surgeons name in your profile..I have looked and looked I can figure it out..it's been way to long..;;
Hi Everyone!! been soooo long that I had forgotten my pass word and how this thing works..lol
I attended a party Saturday evening where I ran in to a friend who had surgery..she asked me if I ever get on this site..I just don't have the time these days between my 6 grandchildren (4 and under)..very busy stressful job. and both my kids graduating with a masters this year..My daughter from University of Cincinnati and my son from Harvard....
9 yrs ago in June I had RNY bypass surgery..10 yrs ago I was sure I would never see any of the above mentioned, I knew I was going to die.. My surgeon left the area not long after my surgery, so I often considered myself a WLS orphan. I have changed so much over the years. seen and experienced much. some I am so proud of and much very difficult ...I lost both my parents to lung cancer..two cousins to breast cancer ..very difficult times..more surgery a year and a half ago .
I have been ask how I have done so well over the years..well I back up once in awhile and ask myself if the path I am taking is the one I am happy with... Did I set myself up for failure?..a very good friend told me once...you may not be able to control what is going on around you...but always remember only YOU can control the way you handle it...soooo true.
good luck folks and don';t give anyone else credit for your success...you work to hard to give that to a doctor..friend or family member..YOU CAN DO THIS!!!.
See ya all when I celebrate 10 yrs ...next year..lol
oh and can anyone tell me how to change a surgeons name in your profile..I have looked and looked I can figure it out..it's been way to long..;;
Topic: RE: Did you have your surgery in KY? If so, what surgeon?
Every surgeon has had a death and if they say otherwise they are lying!! I did not have the luxury of a surgeon to follow me or a staff to be there for me..I pretty much learned on my own. One thing I felt was important and that was to listen to my own heart and mind...one thing I don't like to see is any patient under estimating their own success. It's not the doctor or the staff if you fail and gain the weight back later. It's how well you take care of you..never give that part of you to anyone else...be your own advocate and stand up for yourself. As the comments here revealed you will love your doctor if you have no complications or will dispise him or her if you have complications. Be comfortable with your doctor and staff..if you feel the need to be followed closely by your surgeon then by all means..chose him for that reason but make sure you also know his skill as a surgeon. Some folks like me have not had that tie to a surgeon not by choice. I was however, lucky enough to have met Dr. Sonnanstine and learned from him..but also I would hope he learned from me..as I was a patient who spoke my mind about the surgery..of ups and downs and also of failures and struggles.
Good luck with your choice in surgeons as well as the surgery...take the time to study and learn all you can about the procedure..take your time to think about you and there is NOTHING wrong with seeking emotional help as well. I saw a counselor for about 2 yrs after my surgery and was glad I did..she helped me through the emotional changes I went through..I would be seeing her today If I had the time and opportunity..I loved going to counseling even when I had to admit things I didn't want to admit too..did that make sense? lol
I know I am babbling..I had surgery today and still under the influence..not to mention pain meds. lol..I am in my room and bored to the point of going crazy!! lollthought I would check in and as usual can't keep myself from speaking up..
ya'all have a great summer. ;_)
Good luck with your choice in surgeons as well as the surgery...take the time to study and learn all you can about the procedure..take your time to think about you and there is NOTHING wrong with seeking emotional help as well. I saw a counselor for about 2 yrs after my surgery and was glad I did..she helped me through the emotional changes I went through..I would be seeing her today If I had the time and opportunity..I loved going to counseling even when I had to admit things I didn't want to admit too..did that make sense? lol
I know I am babbling..I had surgery today and still under the influence..not to mention pain meds. lol..I am in my room and bored to the point of going crazy!! lollthought I would check in and as usual can't keep myself from speaking up..
ya'all have a great summer. ;_)
Topic: RE: celebrating
Hey all...long time. Just a quick note to say I just realized it's been 8 yrs today since my RNY bypass. Still keeping my weight under control...I struggle and always will..
When I play with my grandkids I remember why I had this surgery..I am about to have two boys added to my crew. ..a total of 6 grandkids in 4 yrs...I couldn't have played with them..babysat them..sat up with a sick one at night or been there for my kids during the grandkids birth at 325lbs..
Surgery this march to fix female problems..ended up with a total hysterectomy..more complications and I am back in the OR this Wed...getting older sucks..lol.
Each year my on surgery anniversary I have always taken that time to reassess life and it's challenges..I am doing what I can to better my health..emotionally and physically. If not, then it's time to work at getting it together. Life is what I want it to be.;-) and right now, it's being a wife, mother, grandmother and the best I can be for me;-)
remember to take care of YOU!!!!
When I play with my grandkids I remember why I had this surgery..I am about to have two boys added to my crew. ..a total of 6 grandkids in 4 yrs...I couldn't have played with them..babysat them..sat up with a sick one at night or been there for my kids during the grandkids birth at 325lbs..
Surgery this march to fix female problems..ended up with a total hysterectomy..more complications and I am back in the OR this Wed...getting older sucks..lol.
Each year my on surgery anniversary I have always taken that time to reassess life and it's challenges..I am doing what I can to better my health..emotionally and physically. If not, then it's time to work at getting it together. Life is what I want it to be.;-) and right now, it's being a wife, mother, grandmother and the best I can be for me;-)
remember to take care of YOU!!!!
Topic: RE: something old and something new
Right now I am working on some stuff for Breast Cancer awareness...I am involved in an art auction, walks..and some fun event at the hospital..lots going on in Sept-Oct. But I tell you what, if you guys can find time I will make time for a get together...I have not been involved in any support at all since Dr. Sonnanstine moved to G-town, with the exception of his support (which is priceless). I would love to have our own fun little thing going. I have contact with make-up people, jewelry, etc etc...we can do our own little event. ;-0
Dr. Sonnanstine would love to see his patients involved in support. I myself struggled for awhile, had to get myself together. I am now down almost 20 lbs ..I am loving this new found strength and getting back to compliance. ...just makes you feel more powerful. not to mention I feel great! more energy, ..emotional stronger. we should share how we are feeling. it helps so much!
Dr. Sonnanstine would love to see his patients involved in support. I myself struggled for awhile, had to get myself together. I am now down almost 20 lbs ..I am loving this new found strength and getting back to compliance. ...just makes you feel more powerful. not to mention I feel great! more energy, ..emotional stronger. we should share how we are feeling. it helps so much!
Topic: RE: something old and something new
Hi- Thanks for responding to my post.....Dr. Sonnanstine is definitely busy, but never too busy for his patients. My husband is his band patient, he has no problems at all spending time with him or getting in to see him. The new addition to his practice was set from the start. It just took awhile to find the person Dr. Sonnanstine is comfortable with and trust. Dr.Rasmussen just finished his fellowship, this is also very important to Dr. S and Georgetown. That means he spent an extra year studying
nothing but bariatrics. A very good thing.
The reason Dr. Sonnanstine see's his patients continually is for several reasons. First he wants to make sure they are following healthy lifestyles, if a patients is having any problems at all with Vitamins deficiencies etc. he wants to be the first to catch it. If that person is having issues with the surgery itself, he wants to be the one to treat it...Since the above rarely happens to those that are compliant.it boils down to one thing. He LOVES watching his patients change, grow,get st rong emotionally and physically. He likes to see the changes as they lose weight..and to be honest he loves the hugs he gets from his patients. He's a very good surgeon, but don't forget he's also a doctor..so it was his promise and commitment to his patients to stay with them throughout their process. He's a surgeon, doctor, counselor, nutritionist...friend and motivator. Can't get better than that!
Dr. Rassmussen will have his own patients, as the practice is growing quickly. I am sure his patients will love him as much..I hear he's a good surgeon and nice guy.
you can email if you like
[email protected]
nothing but bariatrics. A very good thing.
The reason Dr. Sonnanstine see's his patients continually is for several reasons. First he wants to make sure they are following healthy lifestyles, if a patients is having any problems at all with Vitamins deficiencies etc. he wants to be the first to catch it. If that person is having issues with the surgery itself, he wants to be the one to treat it...Since the above rarely happens to those that are compliant.it boils down to one thing. He LOVES watching his patients change, grow,get st rong emotionally and physically. He likes to see the changes as they lose weight..and to be honest he loves the hugs he gets from his patients. He's a very good surgeon, but don't forget he's also a doctor..so it was his promise and commitment to his patients to stay with them throughout their process. He's a surgeon, doctor, counselor, nutritionist...friend and motivator. Can't get better than that!
Dr. Rassmussen will have his own patients, as the practice is growing quickly. I am sure his patients will love him as much..I hear he's a good surgeon and nice guy.
you can email if you like
[email protected]
Topic: RE: something old and something new
Hello everyone...the something old is me. I am really feeling it. lol
I am working long hours at a job I just love. Being trained as what we call a "super user"..
I am the one they call on with computer problems or questions in our new system at the Breast Center so things are pretty much non stop, from the time I walk in the door till the time I leave.
I like what I do ...but OIY..I am not as young as I use to be.
Now for the new stuff. I spoke with Dr. Sonnanstine earlier today, he was very happy about the changes in his life within the last few months when he and wife Debbie welcome their 3rd son Alex into the world..and now his new partner. Dr. Rasmussen ...his words..(he is a welcome addition to a busy, growing practice) You guys know Dr. S by now. He is so protective and controlling of his patients, he isn't changing a thing..lol .
I hope I can get down there soon to meet Alex and Dr. Rasmussen.
Good luck to up coming surgeries and hang in there for those struggling..you are not in this alone.
we need to get this board active again. I know I know..summers are just so busy. for me to. sorry been gone so long.
Oh, by the way. I am 7 yrs out ..I do fluctuate a few lbs and was up my highest (gaining 20 lbs)...I do treat this as an addiction..for me, it is!!! I am back on track and down 10 lbs..been very compliant and strict the last few wks. If you are struggling..don't give up..you can do it!!!!
I am working long hours at a job I just love. Being trained as what we call a "super user"..
I am the one they call on with computer problems or questions in our new system at the Breast Center so things are pretty much non stop, from the time I walk in the door till the time I leave.
I like what I do ...but OIY..I am not as young as I use to be.
Now for the new stuff. I spoke with Dr. Sonnanstine earlier today, he was very happy about the changes in his life within the last few months when he and wife Debbie welcome their 3rd son Alex into the world..and now his new partner. Dr. Rasmussen ...his words..(he is a welcome addition to a busy, growing practice) You guys know Dr. S by now. He is so protective and controlling of his patients, he isn't changing a thing..lol .
I hope I can get down there soon to meet Alex and Dr. Rasmussen.
Good luck to up coming surgeries and hang in there for those struggling..you are not in this alone.
we need to get this board active again. I know I know..summers are just so busy. for me to. sorry been gone so long.
Oh, by the way. I am 7 yrs out ..I do fluctuate a few lbs and was up my highest (gaining 20 lbs)...I do treat this as an addiction..for me, it is!!! I am back on track and down 10 lbs..been very compliant and strict the last few wks. If you are struggling..don't give up..you can do it!!!!
Topic: RE: Surgery was postponed until Friday! sigh
I know for a fact Dr. Sonnanstine has not lost a patient this past few weeks or months.. ..
Dr. Sonnanstine works with high risk patients and often times they need extra attention and care. I for one am glad he chooses to help those in need and does not turn them away because of high risk..Diabetes, very high BMI and other co-morbids can cause a great deal of problems for high risk patients ...BUT..these patients can be operated on with success- they just need that extra attention and care he so graciously gives, all of his patients are educated and well informed of their risk before surgery.. he has contact with them before surgery, the day of surgery and follows them closely after.
I was a very high risk patient....I am proud to say I was affiliated and trained by him, he certainly is "anal" about detail and care of his patients....the reason he insist on direct contact with patients..from beginning to end....that's an awesome surgeon!!
Dr. Sonnanstine works with high risk patients and often times they need extra attention and care. I for one am glad he chooses to help those in need and does not turn them away because of high risk..Diabetes, very high BMI and other co-morbids can cause a great deal of problems for high risk patients ...BUT..these patients can be operated on with success- they just need that extra attention and care he so graciously gives, all of his patients are educated and well informed of their risk before surgery.. he has contact with them before surgery, the day of surgery and follows them closely after.
I was a very high risk patient....I am proud to say I was affiliated and trained by him, he certainly is "anal" about detail and care of his patients....the reason he insist on direct contact with patients..from beginning to end....that's an awesome surgeon!!
Topic: RE: Surgery was postponed until Friday! sigh
Shea.. I am very happy to hear you are home and doing well...as we all knew you would...Please let us know how you are doing and keep us posted on your progress!!!!
Topic: RE: Dr,.. and Mrs. S
Hi Annie, you may already know by now ( I saw chatter in a chat room) Debbie Sonnanstine and the Sonnanstine men were blessed with boy number 3. "Alex"..they are both doing awesome. I text Dr. Sonnanstine earlier today, He is on cloud nine and so are the boys. The doc posted pics on his facebook page. what a big healthy looking baby and Debbie is radiant..as always.
Topic: RE: couldn't see the ring of my band during an EGD?
Hi Jan,.. I am going to guess the person doing the EGD is a gastroenterologist and not a bariatric surgeon (they're usually the ones doing those wonderful procedures.) ..I would suggest you have a copy of this report sent to Dr.Sonnanstine and then make an appt with him to explain things a little better. I am not part of the bariatric community any longer but still involved with specialty surgeons (breast cancer). It's my experience when a doctor outside his specialty reads films and detects something suspicious- he or she will then send them on to the specialist.. this isn't something they deal with on a daily basis. Therefore, often times how they explain something outside their expertise is often a little vague. I am trying to be kind to the docs I deal with daily..lol
Dr. Sonnanstine should have been sent the report and believe me if he did you would have been contacted immediately if there is reason for worry. I know this from experience.
I hope all has turned out well, and remember...we don't go the a heart specialist for a kidney problem..so don't take a gastro's word for a realizeband question..you have the best around..trust him for your belly problems...Good luck and please let us know how you are doing!!
Dr. Sonnanstine should have been sent the report and believe me if he did you would have been contacted immediately if there is reason for worry. I know this from experience.
I hope all has turned out well, and remember...we don't go the a heart specialist for a kidney problem..so don't take a gastro's word for a realizeband question..you have the best around..trust him for your belly problems...Good luck and please let us know how you are doing!!
Topic: RE: Revision Surgery
I have talked to Dr.Weiss about the ROSE procedure and though he is a huge advocate of it. I haven't found much info on it myself and certainly no long term data. If anyone knows someone who has had this procedure I would love to know how they did.
You are correct Holly in that insurance does not cover the procedure and any type of surgery is expensive.. Dr. Sonnanstine and I have discussed his opinion of the procedure and he stated how expensive it is..and he has seen no proof it works. His feeling is patients would be much better served by placing the band around the connection between the pouch and the roux limb.
I have always advocated for Dr. Sonnanstine and have been close friends since he first opened practice. I know him well enough I can say this with conviction. He will not put his patients through any type of procedure until he is completely convinced it's safe, effective and has long term success. ..
Dr. Sonnanstine also performs revision surgeries...
hope this helps.
Topic: RE: having pain
I sould suggest you call Dr. Sonnanstine's office and not the center. His staff will set you up to see him right away.
Topic: RE: Hello Everyone
I am sorry that post was so large before..I am working on a new laptop computer and I didn't realize my letter size was so large..I love this new computer but I am still trying to figure it out..lol
Topic: RE: Hello Everyone
thanks sherry...I keep telling myself to move forward and stop looking back. I am looking forward to the warm weather and getting active outside again... you will do great, keep positive and don't get to anxious. you know it's gonna happen now, it's easier said than done, but relax...enjoy all the changes that are about to happen!!
Topic: RE: I have my date!!!
That's awesome Sherry, congrats on your date, it'll be here before you know it!
Topic: RE: XP: I bought my first long formal dress!
that's awesome weight loss Leanne!!! you'll have a great time on a cruise, love the dress!
Topic: RE: Hello Everyone
I am spending some time at home playing nurse to my hubby. He just had a total knee replacement last week. I never get time on line these days. When I get home from work I am so tired, with being on computers all day I just don't get on line anymore. I did want to say hello to anyone out there *****members me...lol
just to catch up on a few things. I have a couple of msgs that I didn't answer, I didn't stop coming to OH for any particular reason other than the fact I have had a terrible winter!! My mother was diagnosed with cancer in Oct of 08...she fought hard and I tried to stay by her side, but she lost the battle on Thanksgiving of 09...the holidays sucked...
The only thing that got me through it all was jumping back in to work...I now look back and realized I jumped in full time to soon. I needed just a bit more time for me.
It's been hard and I miss her, working in a cancer center I see it all and do realize she is much better and at peace.
I had my surgery a long time ago now. I struggle and slip and fall...but I never give up. I treat my life as an addiction (which to me is exactly what it is)...I have to back up and start all over again.
I am thankful that around a year after my surgery I had the opportunity to get involved in the Bariatric Community and that put me touch with with several surgeons, dieticians and many wonderful patients. I have been there for many of those patients and their families (made no difference which surgeons patient) . .I wanted to know and understand everything I could about this surgery so I got involved to the point it was all I did for a very long time.
what is important here on this board as well as other boards, is to remember to be supportive to every patient..Be respectful of the fact, everyone here has made a life choice in whatever surgery felt right to them. As well as the surgeon they chose. Be happy and celebrate successes...Now that's what life, advocacy, and this surgery is all about. good luck to all those having surgery. I hope your life is filled with success and remember, be supportive and loving to those facing surgery in the future.
just to catch up on a few things. I have a couple of msgs that I didn't answer, I didn't stop coming to OH for any particular reason other than the fact I have had a terrible winter!! My mother was diagnosed with cancer in Oct of 08...she fought hard and I tried to stay by her side, but she lost the battle on Thanksgiving of 09...the holidays sucked...
The only thing that got me through it all was jumping back in to work...I now look back and realized I jumped in full time to soon. I needed just a bit more time for me.
It's been hard and I miss her, working in a cancer center I see it all and do realize she is much better and at peace.
I had my surgery a long time ago now. I struggle and slip and fall...but I never give up. I treat my life as an addiction (which to me is exactly what it is)...I have to back up and start all over again.
I am thankful that around a year after my surgery I had the opportunity to get involved in the Bariatric Community and that put me touch with with several surgeons, dieticians and many wonderful patients. I have been there for many of those patients and their families (made no difference which surgeons patient) . .I wanted to know and understand everything I could about this surgery so I got involved to the point it was all I did for a very long time.
what is important here on this board as well as other boards, is to remember to be supportive to every patient..Be respectful of the fact, everyone here has made a life choice in whatever surgery felt right to them. As well as the surgeon they chose. Be happy and celebrate successes...Now that's what life, advocacy, and this surgery is all about. good luck to all those having surgery. I hope your life is filled with success and remember, be supportive and loving to those facing surgery in the future.
Topic: RE: Anyone know whats goin on with Dr Husted in Somerset?
I don't know anything about Dr.Husted or his practice, but I would like to chime in. I know several surgeons and I was very active with Dr. Sonnanstine's support group and classes when he was in NKy. before Georgetown. I know the reasons he left, I can assure it was not patient related other than the fact he had many disagreements with the facility that they just could not come to tems. Dr. Sonnanstine is very dedicated to patient care. If any one or anything steps between, he will fight it. He just felt it was in the best interest of the patients, his family and him to move on, BUT, he did not want leave his patients and the reason he only moved from NKY to Gtown.
I also want to address the "success rate". as well as public information. You can thank lawyers and government for strict laws prohibiting information from the public. It's to protect that privacy that records are not for view..but you are right, ..at least I know in Ohio you can go to a website that gives you information about malpractice, etc....However, this information does not give you
all of the information For example. Dr. Sonnanstine does take pts over a particular BMI..many of those patients were sent away from other facilities because of their high risk, which may include heart disease, diabetes, ..lung disease, etc..etc.etc. all considered high risk with complications even before the surgery...high risk doctors are certainly going to have a higher complication rate that those surgeons who only perform on low BMI, medium weight, and less co morbidiies. so to compare those docs would not be possible without those facts at hand.
I only am siting this and Dr. Sonnanstine's name because I know him and his practice well. But this could also be the case of Dr. Husted. Again, I don't know him or his practice to know why he has made a change. It does become frustrating to the patients. I know, I haven't seen my own personal surgeon since 3 months out..that was 6 yrs ago!!!!
Dr. Sonnanstine is my surgeon, he placed the band in my husband over a year ago..he took care of me after a disastrous plastic surgery by another surgeon (something many other docs would never do is take over a case)...he feels that all patients deserve the chance to have this surgery and a second chance at a new life...today if I were getting ready for this surgery.most of the bariatric surgeons I know would turn me down because of my diabetes and high blood pressure not to mention my kidney failure in the past. Had I not had this surgery I would be dead today. I believe in doctors who will give us that chance...if and only if the patient is well informed and educated by that center first...
trust you instincts and do what is best for you..educate yourself and talk to those docs..make appts. you can see most one on one first before making that decision...you will know when it's right..
I am so sorry you all are going through this change...been there and done that..fortunately for me it happened as I am now in the hands of a capable and dedicated surgeon..
my computer is not working well...sooo many delays. sorry if it's not the best post.
thanks
Brenda
I also want to address the "success rate". as well as public information. You can thank lawyers and government for strict laws prohibiting information from the public. It's to protect that privacy that records are not for view..but you are right, ..at least I know in Ohio you can go to a website that gives you information about malpractice, etc....However, this information does not give you
all of the information For example. Dr. Sonnanstine does take pts over a particular BMI..many of those patients were sent away from other facilities because of their high risk, which may include heart disease, diabetes, ..lung disease, etc..etc.etc. all considered high risk with complications even before the surgery...high risk doctors are certainly going to have a higher complication rate that those surgeons who only perform on low BMI, medium weight, and less co morbidiies. so to compare those docs would not be possible without those facts at hand.
I only am siting this and Dr. Sonnanstine's name because I know him and his practice well. But this could also be the case of Dr. Husted. Again, I don't know him or his practice to know why he has made a change. It does become frustrating to the patients. I know, I haven't seen my own personal surgeon since 3 months out..that was 6 yrs ago!!!!
Dr. Sonnanstine is my surgeon, he placed the band in my husband over a year ago..he took care of me after a disastrous plastic surgery by another surgeon (something many other docs would never do is take over a case)...he feels that all patients deserve the chance to have this surgery and a second chance at a new life...today if I were getting ready for this surgery.most of the bariatric surgeons I know would turn me down because of my diabetes and high blood pressure not to mention my kidney failure in the past. Had I not had this surgery I would be dead today. I believe in doctors who will give us that chance...if and only if the patient is well informed and educated by that center first...
trust you instincts and do what is best for you..educate yourself and talk to those docs..make appts. you can see most one on one first before making that decision...you will know when it's right..
I am so sorry you all are going through this change...been there and done that..fortunately for me it happened as I am now in the hands of a capable and dedicated surgeon..
my computer is not working well...sooo many delays. sorry if it's not the best post.
thanks
Brenda
Topic: RE: Dr. Sonnanstine
Dr. Sonnanstine will be in N. Ky..on Saturday March 13th at the Radisson Hotel .(thats the tall round hotel with the revolving rest. on the river just as you cross into Cincy). If you need more info just call his office --Gtown or email me, I will see if I can get more info.
Topic: RE: Dr. Sonnanstine
That's awesome Toni,, congrats. You made a great choice..Dr. Sonnanstine will always be there for you.
If there is anything I can do for you, email me anytime.
[email protected]
If there is anything I can do for you, email me anytime.
[email protected]
Topic: RE: Bypass
you're doing great Hope...watch those bananas..lol
I can't stress enough to take advantage of what is there for you at Gtown and with Dr. Sonnanstine and staff. they are here for you and will always be. If you are struggling make a phone call to the center and talk with someone..see if you can join in a support group or hook up with a support buddy- they did have an online support group, do they still?. You are doing great, the weight loss is awesome!!! Remember you are doing this for you! This time of year is hard enough as it is..it stinks when you can't get out and enjoy a walk or a drive..I personally am going crazy right now with Cabin fever, I'm doing my best not to get down in the dumps..
And I know for a fact Dr. Sonnanstine appreciates his patients just as much as they appreciate him..he loves his job!
I can't stress enough to take advantage of what is there for you at Gtown and with Dr. Sonnanstine and staff. they are here for you and will always be. If you are struggling make a phone call to the center and talk with someone..see if you can join in a support group or hook up with a support buddy- they did have an online support group, do they still?. You are doing great, the weight loss is awesome!!! Remember you are doing this for you! This time of year is hard enough as it is..it stinks when you can't get out and enjoy a walk or a drive..I personally am going crazy right now with Cabin fever, I'm doing my best not to get down in the dumps..
And I know for a fact Dr. Sonnanstine appreciates his patients just as much as they appreciate him..he loves his job!
Topic: RE: 1 week post-op
A lot of people experience what's referred to as "head hunger" after weight loss surgery.
Oh man Leanne you nailed that one...it's like having an angel on one shoulder and the devil on the other. It doesn't get any easier either....I fight it every day. sigh...so I gotta get tough!!
Oh man Leanne you nailed that one...it's like having an angel on one shoulder and the devil on the other. It doesn't get any easier either....I fight it every day. sigh...so I gotta get tough!!
Topic: RE: 1 week post-op
Hi Danielle and welcome to the Ky forum!! first always remember that being a week out it's very important to follow the rules..for medical reasons. and I have to tell you a little secret. I am 6..going on 7 years out from RNY..and to this day I cannot touch popsicles, jello or pudding..I try in the summer thinking sf cold popsicles sound so good, then I end up throwing the darn things out...so I know how you feel about being sick of them!!..but hang in there your doctor knows what he is doing...this phase is shorter though it seems forever, it will pass. Then you will be joining on these types of post telling newbies what you went through. I found it helpful to keep a journal. Not really a food journal but a journal about my feelings, emotions and the different experiences. it was interesting week by week to go back, look at what I wrote the week before and how much things were already changing. to look back and read those emotions now. I have never shared that journal with anyone. But there was a time I spoke at meetings as well as classes with Dr. Sonnanstine where he allowed me to share my own experiences. This helped me grow. See if you can find a support group if not..ask here who lives near you and see if they want to meet up to just sit and chat. it helps soooo much.
Thanks for posting..please keep doing it..what you write brings experience back into the forum and certainly enlightens those coming after ...
Good luck..you will do great..remember, it's all about you...this is the one time in your life you allowed to be self centered!!!!!!
Thanks for posting..please keep doing it..what you write brings experience back into the forum and certainly enlightens those coming after ...
Good luck..you will do great..remember, it's all about you...this is the one time in your life you allowed to be self centered!!!!!!
Topic: RE: Dr Shina
Hi Sherry,...It's so hard when something like this happens and I totally agree abou****ching closely the paperwork the hospital gives. I went back a second time as they left out my OR notes.
I do know you are referring to Dr. Sonnanstine and I had hoped this all took care of it's self once he got settled in at G-town. Dr. Sonnanstine was in a very difficult position where he was "employed" ... When their disagreements became so bad that he fought back, the hospital suspended him--so he was pretty much forced to quit as he knew there was no way to resolve the differences that was part of his philosophy of good patient care.. Therefore leaving him in the situation of no contact with his patients (not at all by choice)...the sad thing was that his patients had no idea what was going on..(.it is my opinion and those of many others who worked with him and along side him) that the blame was that of the facility .., seeing to it their post -op care was taken care of.... From the time he left until he opened his own private practice in Gtown, he could not "legally" see a patient ..he could not practice, nor see a pt..at another facility as the hospital held him to the "non-compete"clause..it's sad..and was very, very difficult for him..Dr. Sonnanstine took this very hard and was upset about leaving his patients..He was offered other positions but chose G-town for a number or reasons...but his priority was to be close for his patients .. Once he opened his doors at his new office it was again "legally" up to the patient to get their records and come to him, not the other way around.
this is all very difficult to understand ..but the law steps in and stops things from happening. Working with many different surgeons now..two of which just left one facility and came to ours..I watched the exact things happen..making me realize even more what he went through.
I am glad things turned out well for you..I was fortunate...Dr. Sonnanstine took over my care from a plastic surgeon who didn't seem to care I had problems and there was no reason for him to not take care of me...I was very, very ill... Dr. Sonnanstine is passionate and cares very much about his patients..to the point of being controlling and protective at the same time. I have seen him fight for them against other docs..I have seen him sit up all night with a patient when they came through the ER with a dumping syndrom..I have seen him cut his vacation short or cancel them completely..to be with a patient. I am so very sorry you felt neglected and left behind...this must have been very difficult for you.....
Brenda
I do know you are referring to Dr. Sonnanstine and I had hoped this all took care of it's self once he got settled in at G-town. Dr. Sonnanstine was in a very difficult position where he was "employed" ... When their disagreements became so bad that he fought back, the hospital suspended him--so he was pretty much forced to quit as he knew there was no way to resolve the differences that was part of his philosophy of good patient care.. Therefore leaving him in the situation of no contact with his patients (not at all by choice)...the sad thing was that his patients had no idea what was going on..(.it is my opinion and those of many others who worked with him and along side him) that the blame was that of the facility .., seeing to it their post -op care was taken care of.... From the time he left until he opened his own private practice in Gtown, he could not "legally" see a patient ..he could not practice, nor see a pt..at another facility as the hospital held him to the "non-compete"clause..it's sad..and was very, very difficult for him..Dr. Sonnanstine took this very hard and was upset about leaving his patients..He was offered other positions but chose G-town for a number or reasons...but his priority was to be close for his patients .. Once he opened his doors at his new office it was again "legally" up to the patient to get their records and come to him, not the other way around.
this is all very difficult to understand ..but the law steps in and stops things from happening. Working with many different surgeons now..two of which just left one facility and came to ours..I watched the exact things happen..making me realize even more what he went through.
I am glad things turned out well for you..I was fortunate...Dr. Sonnanstine took over my care from a plastic surgeon who didn't seem to care I had problems and there was no reason for him to not take care of me...I was very, very ill... Dr. Sonnanstine is passionate and cares very much about his patients..to the point of being controlling and protective at the same time. I have seen him fight for them against other docs..I have seen him sit up all night with a patient when they came through the ER with a dumping syndrom..I have seen him cut his vacation short or cancel them completely..to be with a patient. I am so very sorry you felt neglected and left behind...this must have been very difficult for you.....
Brenda
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