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Surgeon Testimonial Patrick Coates, M.D. I met Dr Coates at the Siminar in July. He stayed after and answered any questions you might have regarding WLS. He is friendly and has a good sense of humor. two things I feel are very important in a Doctor. His office staff is good, but very young, Dr Coates practice has grown so fast I think it got a little overwhelming for all of them. I would like to see a post-op work in the office, It takes one to know one, kinda thing. Kindered hearts, someone who can understand the crazyness of the journey. All in all I'm very pleased with my dession to have this surgery, I'm extremly pleased with the surgeon I choose. I've have never heard anyone say a non-postive word about Dr Coates. and you'd never hear one from me either. I would highly recommend Dr Patric Coates as Your Surgeon. How would I rate him? 10 Thank You very much Dr. Coates Member Interests
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My Story
July 29th 2003 Hopefully I've finally figured out how to post to this web-site,lol I'am a 46 year old mother of 4, 3 daughters 1 son ages 25 - 18 I've been married for 26 years and my husband owns a organic dairy. I work full time as an office manager. I have always been an extreme roller coaster dieter, I lose alot and I gain alot! I'm tierd of the roller coaster. Since I was diagnosed a type 2 diabetic in October 2002, the lose alot has stopped! I HATE being diabetic, I HATE high blood pressure, I HATE all my co-morbidities. I want to LIVE. My Journey begins! On March 14th I had an appointment with Dr Davidson, who said with me being low risk and having blue cross insurance I should be having wls in May..... Who was he kidding!!! after taking home some gizmo to strap on that night and I had to meet them in the Wendy's parking lot the next day to return it. I should have got a hint when they showed up 45 minutes late, but had informed us that we need be there on time or pay $$$. Next on April 8th I had to drive to Kingsburg hospital to have a tummy biopsy. I was told to be there at 11:30am, when I got there he had and emergency meeting (not surgery) but meeting in Fresno and I was to wait in this 50's syle hospital till 2:00pm grrrr. next fun trip was a sleep test, another drive back to Fresno. The room was ok, but the floor looked like it hadn't been vacuumed in awhile. Next they called and said their readings were off. (they hooked it up wrong), I needed to come back to be re-tested. So, the only opening they had was my 46 birthday, so off I went to Fresno again. The girl working well, how should I say...I have a leg that weighs more than her.lol it was her 2nd day on the job (go figure/ my luck) it took her (bless her heart she was sooo sweet) 2-1/2 hours to hook me up. Needless to say it was the worst night ever! I was soooo tangled in wires, I could not move all night (I even cried) I could not wait for the night to end. The next morning the 2nd shift came in and started laughing at how bad I was hooked up! I could not get out of there fast enough, I drove the 1-1/2 hours home in my pajamas :o), I had to wear a 24 hour heart monitor, and guess what???? yes I had to take it to Wendy's the next morning to meet them again, this time she was only 20 minutes late. (this is Wendy's the hamburger place not a residence) two weeks later they call me and said I had 5 episodes an hour, that I would stop breathing for 4 to 10 seconds, heck yes! I told him I was probably trying to move, and it was cutting off my air. Thats when I said enough is enough. My daughter is in the nursing program at Memorial Hospital and told me about Dr Coates, I went to one of his siminars. It was really interesting, met Stephanie (sweet girl) and a few others and changed doctors. yipppeeeeeee I'am not a complainer, But thought I should share my nightmare. THE SANITY BEGINS: I had an appointent with Dr. Coates on July 22nd, I took some great advise from this web-site and other patients of Dr Coates and had all my medical records sent to him, a referal from my PCP, and my pysc. evaluation all done before my visit. My visit with Dr Coates went very well, he said I had everything I needed and they would send it to my insurance for approval, He was very nice, but he wasn't feeling very well. The office was nice and the staff friendly and I met a real nice girl (post-op) in the waiting room (good luck Marlena, you're doing great!) Soooooo let the waiting begin! please keep you're fingers crossed for me. I beleive I've paid my dues already. I love this web site and all the stories and before and after pictures! I only wished they had spell check. lol. August 5th 2003 Jessica from Dr Coates office called 07/30/03 and said everything was faxed off to Blue Cross. So today I decided to call and see if they've heard anything back yet. Jessica said she had not heard back from Blue Cross, Sooooo I called Blue Cross myself. The Lady at blue cross said I had an Indivdual plan and I don't have to be pre-approved. WHAT!!! What does that mean??? Well, Blue Cross will received the bill and then decide if they'll pay it or not! NOT exceptable in my book, I've seen some wls bill reach 100,000.00 I'm not paying that out of my pocket. I guess the Doctor won't schedule surgery unless he has approval....I looked up insurance woes here and found another amos member with the same plan, She told them her doctor won't do surgery without a approval and she got it! I'm going to e-mail her and find out more. Keep your fingies crossed for me. August 18 2003 Saturday the 16th I had company from out of town so I was kinda busy. I walked by the table and saw the mail there I don't often sift thru the mail but this time I did. One had my name on it and I thought someone was wanting me to by some sort of insurance, or how I was the lucky winner of some drawing I never entered, so I looked at the return address and it read bcc, I opened and to my surprise it was the approval letter from Blue Cross, WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!! now all I have to do is wait for Dr Coates office to call with a date, I can't beleive this is all coming together. My daughter is working the surgical floor at Memorial Hospital. She can be my nurse, be my daughter by my side, and get paid for it all to boot. lucky her! Well, I'll talk to you soon with a date to post! Aug 22nd Still waiting to hear from Jessica at Dr Coates office grrrrrr. on the up side, went to Stephanie Simmons last night for a Northern California Amos gathering, It was a lot of fun, many laughs, a few surprises (atleast for stephanie) great snack, (yummy meat balls & chicken kabobs) Was really great to put faces with names. Thank You Stephanie! Sept 8th 2003 I have a date of Oct 8th 2003, finally! I don't know what took so long to schedule. Jessica kept ignoring my phone calls, she was so great in the beginning, she told me once I was approved I would have a date. I was approved Aug 13th and It took until Sept 5th to get a date. Jessica told me she would call and then never get back to me. I called her over and over to no avail, I even went down to the office and was told the surgery schedule was down but she would have a date for me by Friday Sept 5th. ( I was happy because I didn't want to stress about it over labor day weekend) Well, as you can imagine she didn't call, so on Tuesday morning I called again and Jessica was out sick (I thought she was extending her 3 day weekend) So I called Wednesday morning and Jessica was in the hospital (oops hope it was nothing I cursed on her) I asked to talk to the girl handling Jessica's work load (Jamie), and Wha-la I had a date!!! Jamie you are great!!! One day I hope to find out why Jessica never came through. I do hope she gets better. Well I'm happy to have a date, I really hope Richard and Christy get their approval. They really deserve it. They've fought so hard. good luck guys, I'll keep my fingers crossed and keep you in my prayers. Thanks for listening. Sept, 18th 2003 Well, here I'am trying to make sure I have every test done before surgery. You know dot all my I's and cross all my T's. I went for the 3hour pre-op class on the 15th. Jeanie Thomas was great, she had this surgery herself 16 months ago, You would never know. She looks like one of those people who have been thin all of their life. Then Pat came in, she was a physical therapist, (she was very nice and very pretty) She asked if I had gone to the first siminar for Memorial Hospital WLS, I answered yes, and she precedes to say I think you spoke with my daughter there, she had surgery already. OMG it was Stephanie's mom!(stephanie never mentioned this to me) I told her how much fun Stephanie's support group meeting was, and Yes your daughter has offered to be my ANGEL. She will be a very busy angel indeed. Stephanie is gracious enough to be my angel & Richard and Christi's angel. "AN ANGEL INDEED" ^0^. I had my gallbladder ultrasound yesterday the 17th, Man they squish that thing into your ribs. (guess they have to get through all the fat) its like...whats that... why does that hurt? oh yeah!!! I have ribs there, I forgot I had bones.LOL all in all it was fine, Now I wait for the blood test, and wonder who is to scheldule that? everyone keeps passing the buck. I just want everything to be done so there will be NO being postponed. If that happens I'll have to wait until the middle of November, and that my friend would just really make me....grrrrrrrr you understand. P.s. Looking sooo forward to Sept. 27th No.Cal support picnic. See you there! PPSS. Just to mention the power of prayer, In my last post I crossed my fingers and said prayers (as many did) for Richard & Christi to get approval, and they have!!! They will be having their surgery the same day "together" (how sweet) "Oct 2nd". Bravo! God is good! Congratulations you two! thanks for listening. Oct 2nd 2003 I have been instructed to update my profile. Lets see.. last Saturday the 27th Stephanie (my angel) had a local AMOS picnic at Graceda Park. I had a really good time. Met new people whom I've read alot about. It was nice meeting Nicole Butts,(she looks nothing like her picture) Amy M. Vicki M. hope your approvals come thru soon. Lets see...I also met Shelly W. & her Mom Sandy. (Shelly is so beautiful and her Mom so sweet) hang in there mom!!!!. Cinderz H was there (fun girl). It was great seeing again Richard C. & Christi (I can't get them off my mind...today, right now is their surgery) they are the cutest couple, Well...next to Bev B and her DH, they're pretty cute too! & Bev...that girl is shrinking right before my eyes, And Stephanie is just melting away too! (she needs new pants, she tugged and pulled them up all day LOL) Carrie, It was great seeing you again, (she is sooo friendly, makes you feel like you've known her all your life), gee I hope I didn't leave anyone out. Oh Nicoles Mom Carol... good luck in your journey, and great news about the mamogram saga. It was a very good time, and anyone reading this should make the effort to come next time. Yesterday I went to Longs Drug store and bought all that little stuff to take to the hospital, I also bought my magnesium citrate ewwwww.(colon cocktail). And this morning I have my Pre-op appt. with Dr. Coates, Monday I have my pre-admitting appt. and at 6:30pm I have a support group meeting at the hospital, Tuesday..colon cocktail, and Wednesday..."surgery"! Well I will write more later when I get back from my Pre-op appt. C-ya lighter BACK.... I didn't get to see Dr Coates, I saw his sidekick Eric? I would not have minded, But hated waiting 2hours to see someone else to tie up loose ends on one of the most important days of my life, but.....thats life. Oct 6th 2003 Had my pre admitting appt. today! wish everthing I've been through went as well and fast as that did, Boy they were right on top of it all. Papers filled out check, wrist band,check, blood drawn, check, EKG, check, all that done in less than 1 hour, then off to work and a support group meeting at 6:00 that was pretty cool. Oct 7th 2003 Went to work to tie up all loose ends, Had my last egg and toast for awhile, left about noon, got home and mixed my colon cocktail. I bought the lemon kind, lots of crushed ice and a straw, got on the phone and talked and sipped till gone. It wasn't bad, I've tasted alot worse in my life. I made sure my bags were packed and had a very pleasant surprise!!! Kristin from calif. called and we must of talked for an hour, and probably could have gone on alot longer. I really enjoyed that conversation and it was so nice to just get all the things going on in your head into a different direction. Here our surgerys are just a day apart I don't think we talked much about surgerys Mostly things and people we have in common, "thanks Kristen" I slept pretty good that night all in all. Well, the next time I write I'll be a loser. c-ya SURGERY DAY Oct 8th 2003 First thing in the Morning I got on line and posted a little note on the message board. ( I really wanted to see my name flashing in surgerys today) Two of my daughters drove me to the hospital. It all happened so fast. They took me back right away, weighed me @ 297.5 . had me put on a gown, gave me my bed and cubical. started an IV. and the wait was on for the person in front of me to get finished, could be 1.5 hours could be 4 hours I had all three daughters with me. (did not want husband there I knew I would loose it if he were there) and then my curtain flew open and I thought they were coming to get me But it was the most beautiful face...My best friend Pam, from out of the blue. what a blessed surprise. (we've been though alot together) They came to get me about 11:45am. I didn't get nervious or cry, I was ready to roll. The operating room was cold, lots of faces doing their job, Then the drug doctor came in, injected some nite,nite juice in my IV. and It was dreamland. I woke up in recovery with very little pain, maybe a #2 on pain chart. The nurses were laughing because I was doing ankel rolls in my daze. I got to my room about 5:00ish and already had balloons waiting and a color book and crayons. (Thank you Christi & Richard) was feeling really good. My daughters had set up my room with my favorite pictures of my loved ones. Had lots of visitors, Stephanie (my angel) came and I yacked her ear off, and more balloons (thank you Stephanie). I only once used the Morphine pump just out of plain nosieness, I didn't like morphine. Then I tried (hahaha) to get some sleep... and that was my surgery day. Oct 9th 2003 1 day Post Op This day sucked! Sleep did I say try to get sleep, thats about it TRY. The bed is so comfortable But GEEZ try to move in it is nearly impossible! I HATE SLEEPING ON MY BACK! then everytime you doze off A light must go off in the nurses station so they can come in...flip on the flipping light, wrap the cuff around your arm, stick thermometer in mouth drain jp bulb, prick finger (diabetic) give a few yanks on foli (sp) and tell you to get some rest, I must say though you could not have nicer people doing this to you. Around 9:30am went for leak test in wheel chair, if there had been a radar cop I think my transporter would have recieved a ticket, (wheeeeeeee) she was a crack-up. The test was ok, the drink once again I've had worse But boy the nausea from it was pretty bad, When I got the OK they gave me something for the nausea in my room. I had alot of discomfort in my right side but would not take the morphine and they would not give me anything else, SOOOOOO nothing it was. I get very cranky when tierd and in pain, I wasn't the best company I might say! and to walk....hahahhahahahahha with all the construction and painting going on!!!! what an obstacle coarse! they really need to invest in a few treadmills, Its pretty tricky walking with the foli and IV pole. My Daughter Nicole was the greatest! She works as a nurses extern on the surgery floor as she completes her RN program, so I got very good care. That evening I rested alot watched a little TV and went off to sleep. Oct 10th 2003 2nd day post op Dr Coates came in and said I was doing great! said if I felt comfortable with it I could go home "yipppeeeeee" So out come the staples, out came the JP drain and out came the IV. I felt soooo free. WOW what a difference that was. nothing hurt being taken out but that JP drain was the FREAKIEST think I've ever felt. no pain but really, really weird. I took a shower. put clothes on and walked and walked and walked. My mom had come to town (she lives in So. California) to help me once I got home. Gosh the greatest thing is to know someone is coming to get you and the face that walks thru that door is your MOMMY. I don't care how old we get, when we are afraid, sick, or hurt there is no one better than MOM. I got home Friday evening and was a little overwhelmed with all the people there. Slept in my own bed that night with many pillows so I could try to sleep on my side. At 4:00am in the morning I woke because of the discomfort and poured myself some lortab (liquid pain killer) (this is where it gets sad, so get a tissue) as I was pouring it "I DROPPED IT" I could not bend over to pick it up and everyone was asleep. It all spilled out but about 3 doses, So extra strength tylonol became my new friend. and that was the Start of my Saturday and 3rd day post op. Oct 22nd 2003 2 weeks post-op today!!!! On Monday the 13th (5-days post-op) I went grocery shopping. On Tuesday the 14th I went shopping for pumpkins with my mom, My In-Laws came up from Menifee (So. Calif) to see me. On Wednesday the 15th I went to work for 3 hours. Thursday was my post-op appt. lost 13 pounds *o/* *o/* yippee! Friday I sat on my soon to be gone fat ass and watched videos. Saturday & Sunday (what the hell did I do?????) and Yesterday I started back to work. I went to a meeting where alot of people who had their surgery the same week as I did, I was the oldest and doing a heck of alot better than 90% of them MY 1ST WEEK OUT: I've never had a problem getting in my water from day one! I drink 16oz Herb tea every morning then 16oz water w/ vitiams, and meds I walk on treadmill for 10 minutes around 3:00 I have a 20oz Protien drink with 40grams protien in it. I then sip a little broth, sometimes I have a sf jello or popcicle (sf) In the evening I walk another 10 minutes. and finish off the evening sipping down some more water. PAIN: I had minimal pain, But my right side rib area was a killer, had nothing to do with surgery site, was alot of trapped gas, I still have it but its better everyday. MY 2ND WEEK OUT: On Thursday the 16th Dr Coates said I could start eating. I went home had a little marinated chicken & cottage cheese, all went well. I have eaten every kind of meat and it all works for me, I've even had shrimp (non breaded of coarse) The only thing that has given me a little grief is crystal lite, when I sip it it make my tummy cramp. At week 2 I started walking 20 minutes in one setting adding 1 minute a day. I've been really blessed! I've never been hungry yet. People eat in front of me or cook my "old" favorite things and they smell just great...But I feel full like I could not eat another bite. I do find it hard to find anything to even sound good. I eat alot of cheese and have a Adkins shake, I'm Just not hungry!!!! I do manage to eat my 1.5oz of protien. I'm not on any pain pills everything has been as expected. If you want to ask me anything feel free to write me at mojnjl@aol.com I hope all is well with everyone else! God bless! & C-ya lighter Oh I almost forgot.....I'm off all diabetic meds and high blood pressure meds!!!!!!!!!!!!! do you even know how happy that make me... Oct 30th 2003 Boooo! did I scare you? Well tomorrow is Halloween! I was so excited to move in town from the country so I could have trick or treaters, and OMG my street is covered with kids on Halloween. The street is so full of cars bringing their little goblins into our housing track that there is no room for us to park LOL, I never get to shut my door once it becomes dark. I go through $60.00 of costco candy. Oh well I'll quit my bitching. I'm doing so well its scary! I'm now 3 weeks post-op have no food issues, no problem getting my water in, no problem with my energy level, just a little problem exercising (I hate it)(I hate getting sweaty) I've lost 27 pounds *o/* *o/* *o/*. Yesterday I had my first experince with throwing up. I was at work and was having a cheese stick, when co-workers started bugging me and I think I forgot about small bites chew, chew, chew. It felt like I was swallowing an egg hole. OUCH.. I started coughing a little and then the saliva came, I remembered what some of my AMOS siblings had discribed and thought OH SH*T I'm gonna throw-up, I ran to the restroom, turned on the sink water (thanks Bev) and before I knew it...whala chunk of cheese, over! I know I'm not perfect with this diet of life, but hey, I can't eat meat...cheese...eggs.. all the time. I miss my veggies, I don't snack, but I do have other things instead of 100% protien. I made a good beef stew yesterday, It went down really well. With all this protien I can't help but mention ~~~graphic bowel movement (or lack of there of)ahead~~~ WHATS UP WITH THE CONSTIPATION!!! geez, I've given birth to easier things. Sometimes that plunger next to the toilet makes me think of other things that need to be unplugged! I feel like a goat.lol baaaaa. baaaaa. well, enough of that. I went to Kristen's house on the 25th, "FINALLY" got to meet her! (we had our surgerys 1 day apart) let me see.... I met Andrea, & Sabine, Beverly and Dave, Carrie (the stripper)lol, Danni& Abby(great chicken) & Stephanie. It was alot of fun! Kristin is a live wire like Stephanie. It was really interesting because Danni, Sabine, Kristin and Me all had our surgery's within a weeks time. Sure wish Christy, Richard, Amy, Vicki, and Nicole just to name a few could have made it. I Look forward to the next gathering. Thanks for being the hostess with the mostess Kristin, Weigh to go girl, having a gathering so soon after your own surgery. Welp, gotta get some work done here, even though I would like to think so, they really don't pay me to update my profile! Have a great and safe Halloween! C-ya lighter. Nov 14th 2003 Well, I'm really only posting because I should. I'm not in the mood to write. Last Friday the 7th, My two dog's Fleetwood and Mac, got out of my backyard when someone accidentally didn't shut the gate properly. I've driven and driven, checked the pound daily, placed an ad in the paper, called the radio stations and had them announce to be on the look out, called all the local vets (in case one got hurt and brought in) and they are still missing. I had calls from Turlock but they weren't my dog's, then not a call since. I haven't felt like doing anything but pout. I haven't exercised in a week and that has really slowed things down. On my one month anniversary from WLS, I'm down 32 pounds, That at least makes me happy. I'am hosting this months WLS gathering. I hope I get a good turn out. I need the spirital lift right now. Geez I haven't even bought one Christmas present yet. I can't seem to get into it yet. I'm not like that, I'm usually 1/2 way done by now! I have good energy and stamina. Awwwww, if all else fails I'll go shopping at my friend Stephanies, I do have 3 adult single daughters..lol, I would also like to wish everyone good luck on their upcomming surgerys, Just think....at our January amos gathering everyone should have had their surgerys...We'll be a big group of LOSERS!!!!! weigh to go....Vickie,Lauren,Mark,& Connie,for this month and Amy next month and Sandy I hope you become a LOSER before the end of the year. God Bless to all of you!!!! Richard you rock with your weight loss. I'd have to say your the biggest loser of us all for Oct. *congratulations* Christi....Now you just stop that and get better!! Shelly W. to quote Billy Crystal "Dalrin You Look Marvelous!!!" (hows mom doing). Stephanie, Your a dear for always calling and checking on me still weekly! well gotta get going, Hope to see you all on the 22nd @ 12:00 noon, e-mail me @ MOJNJL@AOL.com C-ya lighter November 23rd 2003 Hi Everyone, Like Carrie said what a turn out!!! don't forget Danni was there and so was Mary. But I really have to admit....I really missed Bev. Kari"s husband Paul wrote me and appoligized for Kari missing the get together, But she and her son have the Flu (sorry Kari hope you feel better soon) I think I smiled for hours after everone left because I enjoyed seeing everone sooo much, and the before and after albums WOW, great idea Thanks to everyone for coming when this is such a busy time of year. With the large turn out we had It just proves what we mean to each other. I'm totally amazed how 15 "once complete strangers" are now such a close group of friends. You girl's and you too Richard, are truly a blessing and have enriched my life beyond words. "This Common Bond is Amazing" Yes I have to admit the pinapple cheese cake is really good. But so were alot of dishes, like carnitas, laughing cow cheese, the crab-shrimp cassorole(sp). The clothes exchange is getting larger and larger as we get smaller and smaller lol. I look forward to seeing everyone again at the next gathering in January. I just have to wonder if there will be anything left of Richard by then??? "Wow" By then will all be losers" I have to say this before I close.... If anyone would have said to me a few years ago "You're friends are a bunch of Losers" It would have hurt my feelings.... But Today I say Proudly...YES THEY ARE! P.S. I ate pretty good yesterday and I still lost weight!!! another 2lbs gone 4-ever...What a gift :o) C-ya lighter Nov 28th 2003 Grrrr, I'm gonna kill my youngest daughter. I had this pretty long post going and she came in and did something and whamoooo all I'd just written is gone. So here I go again. All I have here in Northern California are In-Laws, And yes I cooked dinner for all eight of them plus my own seven, Gee I thought, Ya know I must be a pretty nice person to shop for all the food, pay for all the food, cook all the food and setup and cleanup, for only the few morsels I get to have, the thankful part of thanksgiving came when I got on the scale and at eight weeks out I've lost 40 pounds!!! The second great thing happened today when I got up at the B.C.of D. (butt crack of dawn) hit the mall, (shhh I cheated since I live so close to the mall, I parked my car in a great parking spot last night) We hit Express, Macys, Abercrombie, Sears, Gap, Victoria's secret, Pacific Sunwear & JC penney's. When we left the mall I asked if any of them wanted to go to Toys R us. They all wanted to go home, "we're tierd" I KICKED THEIR BUTTS SHOPPING!! and when I got home I started cleaning the house and getting it ready for christmas. Last year, I would only go to one to three stores and then would be exhausted. My feet would be killing me, I would be all sweaty and crumpy with the crowds of people and the LONG lines, but today...(Ok I was still a little grumpy from the LONG lines) I was so excited that I could be my old self and out shop them young whipper snapers, mind you they are A 25year old, an 18year old and a 17year old. Wow, whats in store for me tomorrow??? I still have money left in my checking account!!! :o) Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving. C-ya lighter Dec 3rd 2003 Well we're not suppose to have a get together this month and it really makes me miss everyone...sniff sniff. I keep wondering how Christi is doing with her stricture? If there is anything left of Richard and Stephanie? If Vicky is home yet? Has Kristen passed me up per pound now....lol (not that I'm keeping track). I really do miss everyone. I went to the support group in Manteca on the 25th of November and had a really good time. (thank you Kristen for the invite and ride) I've been really busy with the Christmas shopping I'm almost finished, I've enjoyed shopping this year I must say, even the little bitch at Gottschalks didn't get me down. I asked her where the Thomas Kincade calendars were and she rudely pointed over there somewhere, Mind you the store was empty, she was not busy, so..I go over there and its all bedding. I went back and thought she misunderstood me and said I'm sorry but all that seem to be over there is bedding, she then proceded to tell me why don't you open up your eyes and look around.... I said excuse me, then she said OPEN UP YOUR EYES. I asked her her name and she covered her badge and told me "don't worry about it" I just smiled and said !@#$%^&* then I told the floor manager and the store manager. Little smart ass 19 year old !@#$%^&* "I'll get you my pretty....and your little dog too!!!!!" So peoples...I've lost 42.5 pounds now. I'm going home (So. Cal) after Christmas and soak in some sunshine and compliments because they haven't seen me since August. Well I gotta get back to work.... C-ya lighter "life is good" Dec 9th 2003 Well, Its been 2 months since my surgery Oct 8th 2003. I'm down 44 pounds. It has been a great ride. I've been blessed with no complications, My prayers have been answered that "I" have a trouble free journey. So this brings me to why Im posting today... I would like to have another prayer answered! I've been a good girl, I try to always live by the "Golden Rule" So do you think between God & Santa I'm deserving? Ok here it goes...All I want for Christmas is....for them to make POTATOES a protien.... If potatoes were a protien I could whip right through this journey... :o( I miss my potatoes, French fries, Potatoe Chips, Baked Potatoe, Scalloped Potatoes, Twice Baked Potatoes. Garlic Mashed Potatoes. It would help soooo much. It gets hard to plan what to eat..hummm a piece of meat and a piece of cheese, or maybe a piece of cheese then a piece of meat... or meat and cottage chesse. PLEASE if I see another Cow I'll throw-up, and we own a dairy...lol So please,please,please, Make Potatoes a protien...I'll be your best friend (this worked when I was a kid)... Awwww just having some fun. Have A Great Holiday Season. C-ya lighter Dec 18th 2003 WhoooHooo I hit the 50 pound loss. I got on the scale, (undies only) holding my breath and whala -50 Thats 5 pounds a week, I can live with that!! (we all can't be Richard) Speaking of Richard, I hope you and Christi have the time of your lives on your vacation! congratulations on getting out of here!!! I finished my Christmas shopping a week ago. That makes me so happy because I live over by the mall and its sooooo freaking crazy there lately. I hope everyone is pumped and ready for the holidays. Its such a busy time of year, So busy we didn't have a get together this month and I sure do miss everyone. I'm so very happy for Amy Mitchell, she is such a nice girl and has a very nice family too. I think I'm going to go see her tonight if everything goes according to plan today. I just want to share with you all this really, really wierd thing thats happening to me.... everytime I eat food, I sneeze and sneeze and sneeze! I sneeze at least 15 times in a row. Last night we went to a Christmas Party, All I had was a piece of cheese and a cocktail wiener and started sneezing like crazy. They all looked at me like I was getting sick with a cold, and I said this has been happening to me for the last 2 weeks or so! I don't think they believed me. Wierd huh! Anyways I just want to wish everyone a very happy and safe holiday, no matter what your religious affiliation is. Much skinnyness to all! C-ya Lighter (((hugzzzz))) Dec 22nd 2003 I hope everyone has made it through their shopping list. Sure takes a load off when you're finally finished, let alone what it does to your pocket book. Yesterday I met with a few of my most favorite losers and had lunch. I just missed these girls so much that they probably arranged it just to shut me up LOL. Thanks for lunch Kristen and the beautiful platter Stephanie, But the best gift was spending time with you girls. I go for my two month post-op visit tomorrow, funny how you still get nervous to get weighed. I hope all my labs are good. I don't seem to have as much energy as I did at 6 weeks post-op hope its just the stress from Christmas and work. I was looking at Richard Cano's Website pictures, and everyone in the group photo from my house on Nov 22, are now losers. I can't get over the weight loss from the photo's at the picnic gathering in September to the gathering in November to Now....No wonder our symbol is the butterfly what metamorphosis. Stephanie the change in you from November 22nd to yesterday is amazing, you are a beautiful person and I'm very proud of your accomplishment. And you wonder why Dr. Coates wants you as the Poster girl... YOU GO FOR IT SWEETIE! Wow, this year is coming to an end and what a year its been. I'm so greatful for this surgery, but the greatest part of 2003 are the friends I've made with this journey. God bless you all. Kristen, Stephanie, Amy, Nicole, Andrea, Danni, Carrie, Richard Christi, Beverly, Janiece, Nieta, Marlena, Mary, Shelly & I hope I didn't miss anyone. Love ya my sista's for another mista ((((hugs)))) Dec 23rd 2003 Well its the eve before the eve... I had my 2 month post op visit today, and OMG my appointment was at 9:00am and I was back at my office at 9:50am now thats a first. My labs were just perfect, he kept going on saying since my blood work is so good and I have not a single complication that I need not return until I'm 6 months post-op COOL. I didn't see Dr. Coates I was seen by Darrel, He was great! (better than Eric)I really liked him alot. Well according to the scale at the doctors I am officially down 50 pounds (clothes on) but my scale (undies only) reads 52. I'm going to work a little harder at protien "only". I just have such a hard time with "only" protien, I would rather drink all protien shakes then eat protien. I like cheese real well but geeeeezzzz I run out of inventive things to make with protien only. Maybe I'll go in search of a protien cookbook. Merry Christmas all! Dec 29th 2003 Hi everyone, I'm in sunny Southern California, (which isn't so sunny today) I heard that you are supposed to have a nice storm today, I hope its not to bad. Well... I haven't seen my baby sister 31 years old since last March, She flipped out when she seen me, She said oh my god you have a neck!!LOL. I use to have more chin's than a chineese phone book, but not now. I'm down to about 1-1/2. She keeps staring at me and saying wow you look so good! even your skin tone is good. (I was a diabetic and we get a grayish skin tone) But since this wonderful surgery I'm no longer a diabetic and I'm down 55 pounds as of the 26th. I only weigh weekly. I got into the numbers thing to much so for my own sake I weigh once a week. I'm one of those people that loose 2 pounds and the next day back up 1-1/2 and then down 1 and up 2 kinda crazy but if I only weigh once a week I see 4-5 pound loss. Christmas was very good to me, not just gifts but the spirit of christmas, the energy, the whole concept of feeling better about one's self, The blessings of this surgery but most of all the new wonderful uplifting friends I've gained. I'm going to be farther down south on New years eve and thru the 3rd of January. I'll be seeing my parents I haven't seen since surgery. I also have 3 brothers and 2 more sister to visit also. I have a large family!!! my sisters are all sooooo young. 31, 29,27. Well, I'm gonna go see what my sister is doing (she had a baby Oct 2nd) BEAUTIFUL dark hair and crystal blue eyes. I just had to take time to see how my favorite new looser friends are doing, Take care everyone and have a wonderful New year! (I'm sure you will...can't eat much!! can't drink alcohol either) Please watch out for the other guy, because he can eat and drink. C-ya lighter Janurary 7th 2004 HAPPY NEW YEAR MY DEAR FRIENDS!!! What a wonderful morning!!! I woke up to find my scale in a good mood this AM. I've lost 60 pounds!!!! tomorrow is my 3-month mark. I have been so amazed by the transformation of all of you. From the first time I met you till now there has been so much change. Stephanie, you look so good in your new pictures! (and in person too!) like I said to you sweety the weather isn't the only thing thats gonna be HOT this summer. I'm looking so forward to seeing everyone this weekend! "its my soul food" My vacation was great! my first stop was at my sister's house in Camarillo where I spent two days, Then the rest of the time was at my parents home. I have three brothers and three sisters and was able to see everyone of them. My family had not seen me since before my surgery and they were very amazed at the newer me, in fact my Mom and sisters cried. My sisters are all beautiful and thin and I am 15 years older than next sister, and 20 years older than the youngest, blessed me was stuck with all the boys, but I love them dearly. We are a very close knit family. I hope you all had a fun holiday, and Im sure this will be a GREAT new year for all us LOSERS! And all you Pre-ops hang in there....the best is yet to be!!! C-ya Lighter! January 20th 2004 Hello famous AMOS sisters and brothers. I've lost 67 pounds as of this morning. I sure had a great time at Stephanie's gathering on the 10th. Lots of new faces. If you think about it even the old faces are new faces because everyone is changing so much. Beverly looks so good, and Danni has such a tiny butt. Its just amazing to see everyone just melt away. I sure hope everything proceeds in a timely matter for Demitria (sp).It was sure nice to meet you! It looks like I missed C.J's. party saturday, But I was out buying a new car. Did I say Car???? I went to trade in my Suburban for a Yukon and my husband hated the "plain Jane" look of it and guess what (I still can't believe it) he bought me a BEAUTIFUL Yukon Denali. (he's dutch so I'm lucky I didn't get a Yugo) This SUV is so nice, I even have that new satelite stereo...pretty cool stuff there. ok enough of that! I look forward to going to the support group at St. Dominic's on the 29th (I believe thats the new date). I hope everyone is doing good and have recovered from the holidays. c-ya lighter! February 4th 2004, Wow, I can't believe its already February!! and talk about those plateaus I had a king size one..I've lost only 4 pounds in two weeks!! I'm at 71 pounds loss right now, (I'm 17 weeks out today)I was getting pretty depresed, you know the thought of... Oh Well, this is it, this is all I'm gonna loose :o( I didn't give up, I didn't cheat during the super bowl game, I held my ground! I'm going to have to kick up the exercise, yuk! Wish I enjoyed it more, It really is a key to a lot of people's success, at least at my age it is. On another note, I really miss the sunshine, not the heat mind you but that beautiful great big yellow glow, blue skies. I feel like I'm melting without the sun. Grey is getting to be my least favorite colour. I went to the St. Dominic's support group last thursday, It was a very large gathering and a lot of pre-ops. It was so nice that C.J. would spend her one year WLS anniversary hosting the gathering, But thats who she is!! she's a very dedicated person, and looks so great!!! Congratulations C.J. Well, I just thought I would drop a few lines before you were wondering if I was dead or not hee,hee, I'm Looking forward to seeing all my Loser Friends at Dani's on the 14th. Guess I should go to her profile now and e-mail her my R.S.V.P. I'll be bringing the cheescake!!! Maybe a new Keylime Pie Recipe I found Yummmm. C-ya lighter! February 11th 2004 First off I'd like to give some Major "PROPS" to my Kick-ass Loser friends, Krispers you are doing so fantastic!!! Richard you are truely an inspiration to this WLS gift and as a friend. "100" pounds! Did you ever think this possible when we first met at Stephanies in August???? You at that time had been denied a Consult, and now "100" pounds.(oops sorry 103 pounds) I'm so proud of you, You took this gift and worked with it instead of sitting back and seeing what happens, "bravo" and You Christi.... Just a few more to go until the Century club, You've done remarkable yourself, Soon...real soon, you'll look like my Laura! Also congratulations on your up coming baptism! I would love to see it. Stephanie my friend, and Angel, you haven't posted in awhile, but I know you are doing great, Its in your nature! You're the type that gets right back up and dust's yourself off no matter what is thrown at you!! So hows the new job going? I hope Nick enjoyed having you back home for awhile! Guess I shouldn't brag anymore, I was just saying "I haven't been sick with the flu or a cold in years" Famous last words! Well the " Freaking Cold Fairy" was eavesdropping and thought she'd get a good chuckle at my expense and gave me a good whamoo. I've have the head cold from hell!!! I sound like a guy hee,hee. On a happier note I've lost 75 pounds now, I'm at "227" at 18 weeks out today. I'm really looking forward to seeing (less) of everyone this weekend at Danni's, sounds like alot of fun!!! (if she ever sends me directions that is) Have a good one everyone, what ever it is. C-ya lighter.302/227/170 February 26th 2004 Hello Amos Siblings!!! Well, I'm just chugging along. Kinda been a slow loser latley. I've lost 78 pounds so far. But the wierd thing is after three years of not having AUNT FLO visit she reared her UGLY face at me Monday, I'm hoping thats why weight loss has been sluggish. I would like to extend great big loser props to my dear friend Kristin in Calif. She is doing awesome with her weight loss "82" probably "84" now. I'm sure my angel Stephanie is knocking on the door of the Century Club as I speak..or type. I keep waiting for her SCREAMING post announcing ~~ -100lbs ~~ I'll find out the scoop on that Saturday because she has invited "me" as her guest at the B-93 racquetball club water aerobic class, It seems like alot of fun I'm really looking forward to it.... NOW if I can get over the bathing suit phobia I have going on right now.. I hope no one has a Harpoon there. I have been seeing my picture on this site and I must say I REALLY NEED A NEW UPDATE!! I look like one of those women I've seen on the news in San Francisco getting one of those same sex marriages...LOL Awwww you get the picture. OHHHH I almost forgot, How in the H*ll could I almost forget this! Last Saturday I went to Southern California to see my family, Last time I was there they really bugged me about my baggy pants, Since I still hadn't bought any new jeans since my last visit I thought I better get to the store and get some new ones since I'd lost 26 more pounds since my last visit. Well I bought a size.....drum roll please...."16" and they are loose. I would have bought a 14 but they didn't have any!!!! they are the elastic waist band type but Sh*t the one's I was wearing were 20's but I started at a 24....gee does that make someone feel (as Tony the Tiger would say) GRRRRREAT!!! Oh yeah Marlena my dear friend...You look great in your new picture ~~SEXY~~. My dear friend Richard..tell your Mom congratulations on her date. I'll be keeping her tucked tightly in my prayers! Shelly W. I never got to tell you how great your Mom looked when I last saw her...Congratulations to you and your whole family on that awesome accomplishment from a very,very scary period in your life. So are any of you going to see the "passion of the Christ"? I want to, but I'm so afraid of just falling apart bawling my eyes out and feeling guilty about all Jesus has given up and suffered for me, That I don't live my life in a deserving way for all he has giving me, I'am one who lets guilt eat at me... But I will see it. So as I say that, I will end this long post and wish you all the skinnyness you are so deserving of. C-ya lighter March 8th 2004 Hello everyone...and I guess I mean everyone because my Sister-Inlaw Mary.. (a tie for my favorite) called and said she read my profile, I wondered how, since she is not on the obesity help website, Well....she told me she typed my name in aol and whala my profile showed up... I kinda was a little worried at first. I thought maybe I had wrote something about an In-law and then I realized Naw, I would not have done that, I like them all... My husband is the oldest out of 10 (9 living) so I have a few In-laws. They each are different from one another. My Mother In-law has always been very gracious to me, My Father In-law is a very different man, Very strong minded. Wants to be loved, loves his children but has a hard time showing his love or excepting love in return, very complexed! When he's good he's very good and when he's bad he's a awfull. I was very surprised at how well and supportive they were to me having this surgery, My mother In-law is always curious of how much I'm down... And speaking of that I'm down 81 pounds as of today. Today is my 5-month anniversary of my surgery. All I can say over and over what a blessing its been! how much it has changed my life and lifestyle WOW, I had some film developed and on it was pictures of me taken front view, side views and back view the evening before my surgery, My kids were amazed, they see me everyday so they know I've lost weight but said they didn't realize how big I had gotten, they said they didn't think I was as heavy as the pictures show.. I will see if I can get them posted on this site. Also on the roll was pictures of the gathering at my house in November and OMG I can't get over how much smaller Janiece is!!! and Stephanie, Christy, Richard, Andrea and..and.. oh I'll bring them to Kristins. I'm going to Kristin's house this Saturday for our monthly loser gathering, I always enjoy this so much. I'll have lots of summer clothes to bring. I going to have my Krispers take a new picture of me since in the other one I look like someone Rosie O'Donald would hit on :o) I went to see The Passion of The Christ Saturday night, I was emotionally drained when it was over and several hours there after. I can't describe it, everyone has their own beliefs some deeper than others so It will affect everyone differently, My only advise is if you beleive in Jesus Christ, That he suffered and died for us all, Then by all means go see it for yourself. So...I think I will end and check my spelling, Naw I'll just post and get back to work...C-ya lighter P.S. I'm In Love With Water Aerobics!!!!!!!!!! March 29th 2004 Good Monday Morning Everyone. I haven't had much to say lately, well nothing positive anyways.. You know the old saying "if you ain't got nothing nice to say...Don't say anything at all. Well I was stuck in the 220's FOREVER, I asked some Veteran Post-ops if there is some other reason for this halt... I was this weight before several years ago, and I was informed by some great Ladie's that it was a set-point my body had at one time... and you just have to work thru it... change around your exercise routine, and go back to the basics on food choices.. And I'll be darn they were right, Finally...finally..finally I'm now in the middle Teen's *o/* *o/* I've lost 4 pounds just over the weekend!! I'm at a total of -89 lbs. 11 more to go to hit the century club...Hot Damn..I can taste it!!! I will be hosting this Months Loser group gathering please e-mail me (not via this site because I'm not receiving my E-mail through here) MOJNJL@Aol.com I will give you directions or call me at 204-8175.(please no prank-porno calls allowed)LOL. Wow April will be busy for me... I'm having a HUGE baby shower for my niece April 3rd, the next weekend the 10-11th is Easter, then the following weekend is the gathering at my house April 17th at 12:00 noon, and the last weekend I'm going to the OH Convention in Anaheim the 22nd-25th for 3-days with Kristen M, Connie Sue, Kristin in Calif. No Spouses No Kids..Loads of fun... I can't wait. My Newfound WLS buddie Christie Inman is having her surgery today! I'm one of her Angels so I'm not a Virgin anymore...I never have had an Angel-ette. I'll always remember her...Don't you always remember your first. LOL. Another dear friend was supposed to get her DS last friday the 26th, she was sooo prepared for it, Her Mother flew in from Indiana, she took her bowel prep, drove from Edwards airforce base to USC, and when she got there the surgeon had to do an Emergency surgery and CANCELLED hers...can you feel the dissapointemt!!! OMG...It just broke my heart!! She is the sweetest thing, I would have rather that happen to me than to her... Then they said they would reschedule her for April 9th...Her Mother is supposed to fly home on the 9th.. Gee and they say things happen for a reason.. Well I let you all move on to the next exciting profile.. Just wanted to bring everyone updated, and to let you know, remind you, how precious each of you are in my life. C-ya lighter. P.S. I'll be Megan Harter's Angel too! So dont forget to post to her surgery page, she had her Psyc Elv.on Friday and will see Dr. Coates on Tueday for her consult.. wish her a speedy approval. Thanks! April 8th 2004 Happy 6 month anniversary to me!!!!! Yep, 6-months ago I made the scariest and most rewarding move in my life. But I must say I've gained more than I've lost by far! Yep, sad truth about this surgery is you will gain, for example, I've gained self confidence, self esteem, I gained my life back, I've gained energy and health. The biggest and most rewarding gain is the Friendships I've made thru this Journey, each and everyone of you are a blessing in my life, needless to say the support and knowledge I've gained. Yes, I gained a Ton or Two. Its the first time that I'm thrilled with gaining. So all you Pre-ops BEWARE, soon you will be gaining more than you'll ever lose and your dearest friends will be "losers"!!! In this CRAZY Journey of gaining and losing, I have released this poor ravaged body of 91 pounds of grief. I'm so very astonished how fast 6 months has past. Wow where did the time go? I can now do things in a few hours that would have taken me all day to do 6 month ago. Last Saturday I threw a good sized Baby Shower for my niece, and not once was I fatigued, not even when it was over! 6 months ago I would have thrown it Buttttt, I would have stressed so bad about it, simply amazing it is, I actually look forward to doing things...amazing! On the 17th I will be hosting this month AMOS gathering at my house. I ALWAYS look forward to getting together with everyone! If I've said It once, I've said it a million times, These gathering are always a good time, I feel lifted when they are over, not tierd, It feeds my soul. So with that my dear AMOS Siblings I'll call it a post. May each of you have a Blessed Easter. Denise B. April 2004 April 12th 2004 WHY SOME MOTHERS EAT THEIR YOUNG: I was one of the young fools that thought when my kids got older it would get easier....NOT!!! I guess we never quit stressing about them.. In fact I believe it gets worse because they are not under our wings anymore, and we are not there to watch their every move...They are on auto pilot, and we hope and pray that what we sent them out in the world with they will use as a tool or guidline to make good decision in their adult journey.... My kids are (g)25, (g) 24, (b)20, (g)19. Well, this weekend Miss 24, who doesn't listen about tailgating ended up in the backend of a pickup truck. Truck faired well, But Miss 24 didn't do so well. Her car has alot of front end damage and she has a stiff neck and was pretty shook-up. My Mr 20, was at the Oakdale Rodeo. (drunk cowboy capital of the weekend) One of his friends popped smart remarks to some drunk fools and a fight broke out and he got pretty beat up. He looks like Rocky in the first movie...Both of these incidents happened on Saturday, as of this Monday morning, Mr.20 is still recovering from(more like licking) his wounds. In their eyes I know nothing about life ( I was born at night but not last night) Yet who do they call when this occurs? Thats right Mom & Dad. Like I don't have enough gray hairs... So heres to 25 more gray hairs with Miss 24 & Mr 20's names written on them on. So I just thought I would get on here and vent, and inform anyone out there with the misconception that it gets easier when they get older...Think Again. I'm just greatful and happy they still turn to us when things go wrong.. I love them with all my heart and wouldn't change them for anything. (I repeat this to myself often...like a chant, to let It sink in, so I can remeber why I had them)LOL. Thanks for Listening C-ya lighter..Oh and its -93 now.. 7 more till the century club. May 5th 2004 Hi my Friends and Family, Today is May 5th or Cinco De Mayo. I never really cared much for Cinco De Mayo, for this is America and its July 4th we celebrate. I wonder why people leave their country for a better life in the U.S. and still celebrate their abandoned countries independence? I beleive that they should pass on their herritage, and customs of one nationality, Yet this is a celebration of the country that gives you homage, Oh well its just my feelings. I will remember May 5th 2004, For this day has given me my 100 pound weight loss!!! I'm one of the members of the "Century Club" I find this so amazing, I'm Amazed at the fact that I can not lift 100lbs but I ravaged this poor body to do so for along time. How does it do it? I know people who are newly post-op or just plain ole dieted and complain about losing only 20lbs.. (shhh I was one of those people) I challange anyone who is dissmayed at a 20 pound weight loss to walk around all day with a 10lb bag of potatoes in each hand, Its crazy how we can carry it in body weight and not notice it to much, but carry it in ones hands is hard. Last Month was so busy for me. The first weekend of the month I gave my Niece a baby shower, the next weekend was Easter, the following weekend was our Modesto Loser gathering, and the last weekend of the Month I went to the convention in Anaheim. I also work fulltime, Do Water Aerobics on Monday, Wednesday, & Saturdays, Do weight lifting on Tuesday, and treadmill on thursday, and starting this week Water aerobic or eleiptical trainer on Friday. Sunday is my day of rest. I also go to two support groups a month, one for fun one informative. I have Bunco once a month, and my sorority once a month. I would never be able to do this if it wasn't for Dr. Coates saving my life. The Modesto gathering held at my house April 17th was awesome, We had such a great turn out. I had 47 people there!! I didn't count how many were post-op (had alot of pre-ops too) and all of us post-ops total weightloss was...drum roll please 2024 lbs. Unfreaking believable!!! The Convention.. OMG, I had so much fun I felt guilty!!! I felt guilty because my family was 390 miles away and I think I had one of the best times of my life. Big thanks to Connie Sue, Kristin in Calif. & Kristen M who were not only my roomates, but the best, funnest, supportive friends you could have. I got to meet Soooo many WLS friends I've chated with thru this site but never personally met, and when I met them I felt like I've known them all of my life. What a blessing!!! Us roomies went to Disneyland & California Adventure for two days, and we fit on ALL the rides. My Buddy Krispers was so excited to walk thru the turnstyle without being sideways and standing on her tip-toes, It brought tears to our eyes. She had her picture taken doing it, with her arms thrown up in the air to send to her surgeon Dr. Coirin. One of the Great highlights was meeting Scott & Dolly. (husband & wife) I can honestly say I have even more family in Southern California. I just love you guys. So poor readers, I don't post or update to often, and then when I do you can't shut these fingers up..LOL. I'll be updating really soon, for I have only 2 pounds till my weight starts with a "1". !!!!! C-ya Lighter. June 8th 2004 I can't believe its been over a month since my last post. Life has been busy, and the California Board takes up most of my computer time. My oh my, my weight has really slowed the last 5 weeks. I bounced up and down...up and down, I have made it into the One-der-fuls...I feel like I've lost two hundred pounds, because when I started this Journey I was in the three hundreds, then the two hundreds and now I'm at 196, I haven't been under 198 in 16 years or more, I started thinking ONCE AGAIN o.k. this is it, I was happy at where I am, physically and mentally, But I still wanted more, But if this was it, I could live with that... But the scale started moving again. The Doctor had to change some percriptions I was on for Female problems and us girls know what that can do to our weight, So I've chaulked it up to that. I had a bad bug from the 24th of May until the 5th of June, I'm feeling alot better now, the scale moving helps the spirits some.. to bad it comes down to that stupid scale. Memorial weekend was great, We had our 10th annual family reunion on my husbands side. Its alot of work, lots of prep work and work there. Its a campout from the Friday before till Monday Memorial day. I had a great...no GREAT time, I can't beleive the energy and stamina I had this year compaired to last...Amazing to say the least. I really enjoy this reunion, and all the fun and memories are far greater than the work it takes to pull it off. Well I guess I've rambled on long enough, Take Care and God Bless!!! August 4 2004 Life has been a circus lately, Been going through some very emotional stuff. Lets see, since I last posted, I became another year older "47" yikes, I've got drunk, (very, very easily I might add) I've now lost 119 pounds, and wear a 14 and some 11/12's. My son's best friend died, he also was very close to our whole family and left me in totaly agony. For one he was part of my family, two, to watch my son grieve at such a loss, and deal with my own grief, three, the reality of how close to home this hits, and my guilt of being thankful that it wasn't my son. All this and my old best friend that always helped me through stress is gone! "FOOD" A dear, dear friend that I am so thankful for listened to me with all her heart, and pointed me in the direction of seeking medical relief. I have been placed on an anti-depressant, It is starting to help, as it takes several weeks of taking it before it starts working. I felt like such a weak person, for having to turn to this, but my Dr. has assured me that I'd be surprised how many woman in their "40's" have to take this medication. So wish me luck! I still have not one single micro regret about having this surgery, it has been a blessing! And I would do it again in a heartbeat!..just thought I should type a few lines and let everyone know "I'm still alive" and loving life. Hugggssssss!!! Sept 17 2004 Still alive...I've lost 122 lbs now.. I went tubing at the lake, was in a bathing suit in front of everyone.. I would never thought this would be possible again. Thank You Dr. Coates!!! Jan, 17th 2005 OMG..its been exactly 4 months since I last updated!!!! Well my weight hasn't changed much since my last post.. I bounce between 178 and 183.. My oh my I wish I could go back to the last time I posted, and know what I know now... Nothing much to do about surgery, but personally.. what challanges and struggles I've dealt with since July 2004. I wont go into details but..it has forever changed my life. I've made some bad choice's.. I've hurt others ..and others have hurt me. Now I can only move on, My words have no depth to some.. I can only show sincerity and remorse in my actions... cryptic isn't it..lol I have Faith to help guide me through.. (in more ways than one) My spiritual Faith and my Friend Faith, I also have Mike, Kristy, Bev, Marta, KristEn, Connie Sue, KristIn, Stephanie, Danni, Janiece and a few others also. Blessed are those whom don't live in glass houses. I'm going home this weekend, going to be gone for a week. I will be having my 27th wedding anniversay there, and my aunts 80th birthday and also my Sister Inlaws 50th birthday party. I can't get over about being married for 27 years.. I can't be all that bad to be with..if my marriage has lasted that long and doesn't waver at all. I guess thats what being there for someone really means.. Actions speak louder than words. April 22nd 2005 Oh how I miss my pouchy when it was new.. I find it getting easier and easier to go back to old bad eating habits.. I have gained about 7 pounds from my lowest weight, I don't know if It has to do with the new medication they've put me on or the STRESS of my Daughters Wedding! She has been the perfect child..Child haha, she will be 27 next month.. I want everything to be perfect for her.. The Cinderella wedding, so I keep doing and doing and doing...I guess I'm very lucky because Hubby hasn't said a single negitive word about the enormous bills I've been handing him. Anyways..about being 18 month out now.. I find that I don't get stuffed with a Lean cuisine meal anymore.. I keep grazing, I can tolerate alot of different foods, but still can't eat any type of ice cream.. I haven't exercised in MONTHS.. I was so good about it, then the cold weather set in, and I'm cold enough as it is already (body temperature).. I have to get back into the swing of things.. I miss our old style of monthly gatherings, but the group just got so large. Yes I miss getting together with my WLS clique..You know who you are!! Anyways just wanted to complain a wee bit, I'm not really worried about the 7 pounds.. it's been bouncing around from 4 - 7 pounds for 3-4 months now. Back in 2000, I had cervical cancer (pre-cancer) I've been treated for it ever since.. On April 7th I had my yearly exam.. and last Friday the 15th, I was notified that I had an abnormal result.. So Monday morning I go in for tests, (dig a little deeper scape a little more) and blood test.. God I hope I don't have Cancer appearing again!!! "I HAVE A WEDDING TO PLAN FOR" LOL.. I try to attach everything with humor..but actually I'm kinda scared... Pray for me!!! Love to all, Denise B. stats... present weight 184 size 10/12 depends on the funny guy who's making it. xxxooo Sept 22 2005 This is a very sad evening for me, A dear friend from this board that I have personally met, admired and respected passed away. John Ott was a big man, yet his heart was much larger than his stature could ever be. This death has riddled me with quilt. Not that I had anything to do with his death, but what he fought and died so hard for, I have come to take advantage of. I've not respected this amazing tool, Its been almost two years since I was blessed with this surgery. I was one of the fortunate ones who had no complication with getting the insurance companies to approve nor did I have any problems there after from complications. I have now come to realize how lucky I really am! I have to thank John for that, Its because of his valiant fight to overcome insurance companies and obesity that I rededicate my life to what he fought and desired so deeply for. I will make better food choices, I will drink more water, I will exercise more. God Bless You my friend, how blessed am I to call you friend, thanks for stopping by and being apart of my life. I'll end by saying this. They say it takes a minute to find a special person, an hour to appreciate them, a day to love them, but then an entire life to forget them I will never forget you my amazingly gifted, gentle friend xoxoxoxo Feb 6th 2006 well its been 2 years 121 days and 1-1/2 hours since I had my WL surgery.. even though I never made goal, I'm still happy!! I went from a size 28 pant and 3 & 4 Xl shirt.. to a size 12 pant and xl shirt. I've bounced up and down about 8 lbs from my lowest weight. One of the nicest things was when I had to dig out my winter clothes from last winter..and they fit.. I can't tell you how long its been since I was able to do that.. Every year it seemed like I would always go up a size..but once I hit a size 12 pant..I've stayed a size 12. So today I've been picked as this weeks POTW by one of my favorite people.."Renee*".. Its truly an honor, then the Guilt sets in. OMG.. people are going to be looking at my profile, and Oh My the last time I updated it George Washington was president!!!!!! I'm very happy I had this surgery, there is never a day that goes by that I'm not greatful for all that it has brought me.. Now if I can only get ALS.. No not Lou Gerrigs disease..but Age Loss Surgery!! See you soon..I promise!!!  
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