Surgeon TestimonialRobert G. Martindale, M.D., Ph.D.
12/02/05
I recently emailed Dr. Martindale to see how he's doing. He was so nice as always. This man is amazing. I can't even imagine someone so thoughtful and passionate about a field like this, but he his truly devoted to helping those people like myself who have lost all hope of living anymore. I just hope he know's what a difference he's made in so many people's lives.
4/15/2005
I went to see Dr. Martindale for the last time before he leaves for his new job in Oregon. I will miss him so much. I gave him a heart shaped box filled with Hersey kisses. I told him at this point I had lost 250 pounds. I had counted out the kisses and give him one for each pound I had lost. This man is amazing. He's been such an inspiration in all that he does for other. He took on my case when no one else would do it and for that I can't thank him enough. He's saved my life and my husbands. I can't ever repay someone for doing something so special for me. Dr. Martindale will be grately missed at MCG. What a shame to lose such a special surgeon.
2/16/2004
I will have to tell you. I've been to now going on my fourth surgeon. Up to this point I was not 100% impressed with the ones that I had gone to. There was something about each one of them that held me back from wanting them to do surgery. I feel extremely BLESSED to have Dr. Martindale as my soon to be surgeon. This man is HIGHLY educated in this field. When we came in to meet me he was very friendly and kind. I felt like he was concerned about me. You could tell from the way that he talked about this that it was a passion for him to help people. He gave time for me to ask questions and did so very wonderfully. He made me feel very good knowing he deals with many patients that are over 500 pounds and has a true concern for those super obese. There are NOT many in this field that will even do surgery on someone these sizes, yet he takes the chance and helps us. What a man! Just to tell you some pluses. He takes the gallbladder out during surgery, he said it only take 3 minutes while your there. I said what about insurance, he said he doesn't charge them for it. He's done over 500 bariatric surgeries dealing with mostly high risk patients. He said to keep in mind he also does other surgeries such as hernia repairs, and other gastrointestinal surgeries, as well as be a professor, and he goes to other countries donating his time to help the less fortunate. He's done maybe 50 patients under 500 pounds the rest where over 500 pounds. He said the average BMI is 60, whereas most are around 45. I felt a huge relief that he's so experienced with high weights. The highest weight he did was over 900 pounds. I asked him about deaths. He has not had a patient die on the OR table. He has however lost 7 patients and he went into full details of each one, he said that patients had died anywhere between 8weeks to a year for various reason. He's only had 3 leaks. I asked him about certain patients and he remembered each one of them. That said a lot. Anyway I spent an hour and a half with him. He also knows and understands about my lymphedema. He felt that I would lose a good bit of weight from therapy. I could tell how he spoke that this was a passion. He said he does this surgery to save people's lives and give them life back. I fell in love with him. While he was talking to me I could see a glow around him. It was the most amazing experience, when we left I KNEW it was right and had major relief. I fully trust him and would put my life in his hands.
8-18-2003
I orginally went to Dr. Gooden in Augusta. He said that he didn't have an OR table big enough for me. Dr. Goodens staff was fine, I just wish someone there would have asked prior about my weight instead of waisting my time and the surgeons time. I was disappointed. This is just my opinion I would not recommend some to go to this surgeon. I was not impressed with his office or how his program was set up for the obese. I am now going to see Dr Burrowes in Atlanta on the 29th of October.
10-7-2003
I went to a Siminar for Dr. Duncan. I will say that I was quite impressed with this man. He is very smart, and had great dry humor! I would recommend him to anyone. His program is very well set up and he took the time after the siminar to talk with me personally. He only now does the Lap RNY. He does however have associates that do the open percedure too. I sent my packet to them and I'm suppose to go see him on November 20th. Provided I pick him to do the surgery.
10-29-2003
Dr. Burrowes was a very informative, and smart man. The longer I sat and spoke to him the more I understood that he does this surgery for the soul reason to give someone their life back. His office was very nice. You can park on the 3rd level in the parking garage and go across the cross walk into the office building. Take the elevators to the 5th floor. It's not very far to walk. His office had chair with and with out arms. As a very comfortable couch. His staff was very kind and took their time with me. Once I got in the office I didn't wait to long. I was then taken back to get weighed and also they take your picture with some measurements. They had no problems with my husband accompanying me back there. We then watched a couple of videos. Dr. Burrowes is a huge fan of the Fobi pouch, which was designed by a surgeon in California (Mathias A. L. Fobi). (http://www.cstobesity.com) I knew going in that he was liked this percedure over the others. If you want to have that done you will have to pay out of pocket $4500. I told him that I could not get the funding for that and would prefer just the RNY without the Fobi. He had NO PROBLEM doing that. Infact he does SIX percedures. RNY, VBG, LAP-BAND, D/S DUODENAL SWITCH, and FOBI POUCH. He said that most insurance will only pay or allow the VBG and RNY. Any other would be out of pocket expense involved. My overall view of Dr. Burrowes was very impressed. He's definately on the HIGH end of the scale. His death rate is very low and he had done over 1000 of this surgery. He took the time to answer all my questions. He doesn't want an answer that day. He told me again all the risks involved. I got a very thick aftercare booklet that explained what I will be able to eat, things to expect, a long list of potential problems that can be resolved by the patient to cut down on calls to his office. It listed ideas for meals. I was extremely impressed. It also described what to expect 1-4 days. I guess what I most impressed about is how he does the percedure. He does it open with an incision of 2-3 inches long!! I know that he is a very skilled surgeon and feel this will be the one for me.
11-20-2003
Well, I decided to go see Dr. Duncan today. Just wanted to feel him out too. I was very disappointed. I knew before I went that he doesn't want you to gain weight, but he wants you to do that for 90 days supervised BEFORE he will do surgery. I understand him wanting to shink the liver, but when I've been trying to diet since May this made me somewhat upset. I've been doing all I can. Not to meantion I was told on the phone that Dr. Duncan would be there. NOPE! He had an associate take a look at all of us. I was told one on one and I'm very upset that I went 150 miles to not ever see the surgeon. Total waste of my time. The staff is friendly, but people need to be told before hand the truth.
Latest Surgery Support Comments
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HI Amy-All I can say
is wow. I have been
overweight all of my
life and I started
this journey almost
a year ago. I
didn't see your
first episode on MTV
but I have been
reading your posts
for the past 5
months since I have
been a member of OH.
You and Kenneth are
such great people, I
wish you nothing
happiness and good
health.
Sincerely, Sharon
Johnson
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Hey Amy....just
checked out the
updated MTV video.
You and Kenneth look
awesome and I still
can't tell you
enough what an
inspiration you both
are. I also wanted
to say a Happy
belated Birthday to
you. Hope you had a
great one!!! Sending
you lots of Love,
Nadine!
Click here for the surgery support page
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Wish everyone had a chance 5 days ago
A few years ago, I met someone while working with ObesityHelp named Joann. Her cousin had called me looking for help and support for her. She was homebound and had been for 8 years now. I just found out that she passed away recently. Her cousin had called me to let me know and it was very hard to hear. She wanted to live, but didn't know how to begin. It's difficult to even explain to everyone on this site because when you haven't been totally confined to your home you can't explain the emotions that happen nor the pain in wanting to do something and you don't know which way to turn. Some people get out of that situation, I was lucky to have been able to do it. Then there are some who aren't able to get out of that situation, then their health continues to fade away. Before long I imagine you just give up on life. You feel like you have nothing more to be able to do or live for. It breaks my heart. There is so much to live for, then you can't always find the help you need to give you that chance to move on. I remember even at 600 pounds it was like pulling teeth to find a surgeon to take on my case. I realize the risk that surgeons take to do difficult cases like that. I have so much respect for the surgeons that do take those risks, you have situations like mine that result in a person being able to live. I'm just thankful each day and I hope that more people will get the chance to make a difference in their life. I didn't give up and I wanted to many times.
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Life has been busy! on May 5, 2008 9:26 pm
I don't nearly have the time I use to. It's been a busy past few weeks. I recently went to Cincinnati to learn more about the new band from Ethicon. It was extremely interesting to learn about the new things that are happening in the bariatric industry. The advancements continue to blow me away. I flew up to Cincinnati. Another ride on an airplane. It's always exciting to me to be able to fly. It is so neat to be able to see the earth below and realizing you are flying. I met several other allied professionals. It's interesting to see what other practices are doing. It's very exciting to be able to bring back new tools and become educated in things to help patients.
Kenneth's been dealing with some severe issues with dizziness. We originally were told it was vertigo, but it's been weeks now. We still don't have any answers and he's under going several tests. The ENT doctor said it doesn't appear to be an inner ear issues. He's been referred to another doctor for neurological issues. The doctor seems to believe it may be related to the bypass somehow, but we really don't know. We thought maybe it's a vitamin level off. Hopefully we will know something soon. It's been hard for Kenneth because he's use to being able to do projects around the house and for others. He gets so dizzy that he's not been able to do that or go to work. It's improved some, but not enough to get back to work. When I find out something I'll update everyone.
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60 Minute Special on April 26, 2008 12:00 am
This aired recently on 60 Minutes, this is very impactful on what the bypass can offer others that have Type II Diabetes. Not only that the surgery is much safer than years ago. Over all 2 thumbs up on this report!
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Something exciting on April 10, 2008 4:27 pm
I've seen the surgery done many times online via video links, but I had never witnessed it in person. Today I got suited up and joined the surgeon I work with in the OR. That was pretty exciting. It was very interesting to see him and how this is done from their side. All the hard work that comes from the whole team amazes me. It is a group effort. I got to see both a bypass and a lapband be done. When I saw the patients going into the deep sleep it made me remember my time. That was really special to witness someone getting the surgery they had been waiting for and the excitement they felt up to the minute they were put to sleep.
I've had several people asking about me. I'm doing wonderful. My job keeps me extremely busy, so my time has become limited. I try to get on the web when I can. My weight loss has been maintaining now for about a year. I've dropped some more weight recently with all the running around, which is a good thing. Even after four years I'm still losing.
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Just an update! on March 17, 2008 5:52 pm
I never realized how busy my life would get after taking on this new job. I'm enjoying every minute of it though! At first I was kind of scared to take this big leap into the unknown and now I've realized it all came together for the right reasons. It was that one thing I had been striving towards. I had been working through the surgeons office and just moved over last week to the hospital level. It's a very exciting program to watch grow before my eyes and I'm happy to be apart of it. I wanted something so I could witness the changes that happen to people and now I see that.
My weight loss has remained stable for several months. I've been maintaining my loss and it's actually been a lot easier than I thought. I keep myself very involved with all things weight loss related and for me it keeps me on track. In going to the support group and being accountable each month as a support leader, I have to practice what I preach so that makes me stay even more motivated to stay on track. Life is awesome! I'm so happy each day I was given this new lease and I'm living the dreams I once had many years ago. I never thought four years ago I'd ever see such a dramatic change. All I can say is if you are struggling, don't give up. If I can do this so can you!
Be Blessed!
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Hypnosis???? WHAT!! on March 8, 2008 5:01 pm
So I get a call today about a listing on Ebay from my MOM. My aunt and cousin saw my photo on Ebay. I'm like ok.... So I get home to look it up and sure enough this guy has stolen my photos and says I've had hypnosis! OMGoodness. Needless to say I've already contacted Ebay, just awaiting a reply now. I believe I've seen these other photos around here, but I can't place them. Check it out. http://cgi.ebay.com/POWERFUL-WEIGHT-LOSS-HYPNOSIS-DIET-MP3-W -PROOF-INSIDE_W0QQitemZ110230199723QQihZ001QQcategoryZ11781Q QssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
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What an honor on February 29, 2008 12:14 pm
I received the following email today and had to share.
Dear Amy,
Hello. My name is Debra Leavitt Herbert. I'm a member of the WEGO Health Community.
Our team of expert researchers and community members has awarded your page, amylhwilliams.com, as a Recommended Resource. This signifies our recognition your site is one of the best resources on the Web for some health information. We're currently featuring it in our Diet section on our Weight Loss Surgery for Dummies topic page.
WEGO Health's mission is to identify, rank, and organize the most helpful health and wellness content on the Web, and make it easy to access by everyone. Our mission is articulated nicely here.
To recognize the quality of your site, we're pleased to offer you our Recommended Resource graphic. I hope you'll feature it on your site. The graphic and the code you'll need are below.
I hope you find WEGO Health as valuable a resource as we find your site to be. Please let me know if you have any questions, or if you see a way we may be able to further work together.
On a personal note, I'd like to congratulate you on your courageous weight loss journey. Your story is inspiring and gives hope to so many who need it.
Best regards,
Debra
WEGO Health Community
wegohealth.com
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Joyful moments on February 8, 2008 4:03 pm
Lately my life has been filled with so much excitement and joy. Since I've started my new job I have witnessed things that bring a huge smile to my face. For those that didn't know I work for a bariatric program. I had often wondering before getting this job, what it was like to be the one to tell someone "you are approved". Now I know. I have helped people overturn denials for surgery. In fact that is what prompted me to post this message. I had a patient who has been waiting on an appeal I helped her with. I was able to get her approved. I couldn't wait to talk with her. When I called, I told her guess what.... She said, "Oh no". I told her nope... something good, you've been approved. She started to yell, then cry, and then praise God. The joy that I felt in that moment made my heart warm. I'm so happy for her and all the people we get approvals for. There's nothing better than to tell someone they have been given a chance to change their lives and now I get to witness it all in front of my own eyes. It gets me teary eyed thinking about the excitement in her voice and it brings me back to remember how I felt when I got my approval. I just had to share my story with all of you.
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I'm still around! on January 27, 2008 9:30 pm
I've just been so busy lately that I haven't taken the time to update everyone. I thought I better do that before this next week starts. I have a lot going on this week. My dad is home again. They allowed him to come home with the antibotics. He is actually looking better since they have him on the TPN full time now, plus he's actually been getting up. It's small steps, but it is progress. He was able to get into this roll around chair and just go over to the kitchen area. It wears him out, but I'm so proud that he's able to do that again. We still don't know what all the future holds, the fistula is still there, and you almost hate to do any surgery with him looking so well, but the problem is still there. We just want to make sure he's able to move around and get around before he does any surgery.
I've been working a lot lately, but I'm totally happy with the new job. I enjoy helping others and knowing the differences that are being made and helping others to get to their goals too makes me so happy. I come home with a huge smile on my face because I know I'm helping someone reach their goals. What is most rewarding is to witness it in real life.
My lymphedema has reminded very manageable. I've been so happy with my stockings. I had been worried about going back out into the work force with my legs being down so much, but I've been surprised how well they have stayed under control. I just had to find something that worked.
I'm still around so if ever you need me just send me a message. I may not get back with you right away, but I always get back to anyone who contacts me.
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What I've been up to on January 3, 2008 6:34 pm
Today marks my 13th wedding anniversary. I was a work today and one of the ladies at the front desk called me and said there was a package for me. I thought it was just something work related. I went down stairs and saw the most beautiful flowers. They are purple/pink roses in this heavy glass square vase. They put a huge smile on my face.  Yesterday my mom and dad surprised me with another flower arrangement with a butterfly.  I haven't been up to much lately. Just been busy working with my new job. It's a major change for me because I'm around people again. I enjoy it very much. It's hard to describe how working at home has a lot of wonderful things, but you start to miss the interaction with people. Today one of our patients wanted to give me a hug. That personal touch means the world to me. I had been worried about how my legs might do with me running around an office and sitting with them hanging down more. So far with the help of my support hose they have done really well. I am reminded each day of how different my life has become and so much I owe to having had the surgery. I would never had imagined just a few years ago that I'd be where I am today. God always has a plan and although I might not understand like my best friend tells me she is right, he does have a plan. It's been a plan this whole time and the pieces have finally fit together. My professional attire and before What a difference!   Unfortunately my dad is again back in the hospital. This time he has MRSA in the urine. The surgeon has decided it's time to do something. The surgery will be risky. I just pray it works out and he can get some rest from the hospital. He has been in 7 times since July.
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Over the counter, WOW moment! on December 30, 2007 5:00 pm
For the past 3 years the only way I could get the right fit on compression hose was to get custom fit hose. It would always take a few weeks to get them and the cost would make the insurance company only allow me 1 pair in 6 months. Usually a custom fit pair will cost around $400-500. I went the other day to get measured, they said why not try "over the counter"... I was like ok. My measurements are now within a range I can wear them. I was thilled. I got my first pair, which without insurance would have been $45.00 for 2 PAIR! The insurance picked up the complete cost. I took one look at them when I got home and kind of got worried. I was like those are never going to fit me. Low and behold, they fit perfect, even better than my custom fit pair. I'm thrilled about it. The best part is I can now get more pairs even if I have to buy them for that price. No more having to wash them daily. It really became a pain only having one set. I tested them all this week with all the running around I did. They have helped me maintained my lymphedema, I've had NO swelling. YAY!
I hope everyone has a blessed 2008!
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Card Shower for Jeremy Norman on December 26, 2007 5:12 pm
As many of you know Jeremy Norman passed away on December 23rd from a cardiac arrest. This has been a very difficult time for his wife Robbi. Robbi posted about the funeral costs on Myspace. She is in a very hard position. If you would like to send the family a card you can do so at the following address.
Roberta E. Norman
69860- Holley Road
Martins Ferry, Ohio 43935
About the funeral per Robbi.
The calling hours are friday at 2-4 and 6-8 and the funeral at 10am, both at Wilson's Funeral Home in Bridgeport, Ohio. he will be buried at St. Mary's Cemetery in Martins Ferry, Ohio. there will be a party (not a wake) afterward (not 100% sure where yet). only rule is no black... please dress colorful to celebrate his life. anyone who is able to attend, please do, because he loved each and every one of you, whether you knew him or not.
Here's a link to the news story about Jeremy's passing.
http://www.wtrf.com/story.cfm?func=viewstory&storyid=32896
We lost a dear friend, Jeremy Norman on December 23, 2007 9:24 am
Today I am saddened to post about this. Just a few minutes ago I got a phone call that Jeremy Norman passed away this morning. He apparently had been sick with a cold and it had progressed into his body. As many of you know he has struggled since his surgery a few years ago and hasn't walked since his surgery This is a link to his YouTube site that he gave a lot of time to.
http://www.youtube.com/profile?user=usedtobe803
This is his profile page on OH.
http://www.obesityhelp.com/member/spidey/
Please keep his family in prayer, this is going to be a very hard time for his family. His wife cared so much about him and he was so young. As I know more information, I'll post about a possible card shower for his family.
This is Jeremy with his loving wife Robbi.
Very sad on December 9, 2007 8:46 pm
As you may remember I posted about Randy Morgan when he passed away in July. Today there was a post on the main board about his wife. I was so saddened to read this.
As you all know we lost Randy this last july. It saddens me to inform all that we just lost his wife Nina she died on Dec 5 at 6:10 AM. She was diagnosed with stage three multiple myoloma she will be greatly missed by all a spring memorial is being planned for her and Randy both with a burial at sea. For further details you may contact her son at.
Christopher Fleming
2701 NW 23rd BLVD
unit K-91
Gainesville FL 32605
Nina & Randy are together again
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Couple of updates on December 8, 2007 6:31 pm
Well, my dad is again in the hospital. He has all the signs of being septic again. They have sent off the blood cultures to confirm. My mom called the ambulance again that is the only way we can get him to the hospital. He basically hasn't been able to walk much since July. I can't believe it's been 5 months already. Time just flies away. They are now talking about doing something to relieve the bladder. They call it a suprapubic line that would allow his bladder to remain drained instead of having a catheter all the time. The cath always gets clogged up. It's like the urine and stool just fester in the bladder and the next thing we know he's septic again. The thought of any surgery to fix the fistula is pretty much a very very last resort and likely won't happen because he's very weak now. I just keep praying for a miracle and just that he will have some comfort.
I did get some good news this week. I was able to meet with the hematologist. She was really nice and had looked over all my blood work. Based on what she is seeing and that I got the blood clot after a major surgery, she is not recommending at this point to be on blood thinner for life. However, if I ever need surgery again they must give me blood thinner and if I ever have another clot then likely I'll need blood thinner for life. She said that I do have a strong family history, but with just a slightly elevated Protein S she wouldn't want to put me on anything just based on that lab result alone, she said it was so borderline that even testing it again won't do any different and they said it is controversal by many that the blood testing alone does determine if someone has a predisposition to clotting. I walked out with such a relief. I didn't want to have to take the blood thinners.
I've been doing a lot lately to get ready my job. There will be a lot of exciting things coming up and I look forward to doing something out of the house. I have enjoyed being able to work from home, but often felt homebound still. I remember going out to California this year, I enjoyed being able to go into the office and having that interaction with people. It was sad when I left to come back home, I had that same feeling when I left the year before. Anytime I was around my co-workers at the events I enjoyed that interaction too. Although I'm going to miss it all, I'm wanting to get out with people. I've always said that God will lead you in the direction you are needed and I just continue to know good things are in store!
I hope everyone is doing well!
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Spreading my wings - Thanks! on November 28, 2007 5:19 pm
Several weeks ago I was offered a new job. I have been praying about it since. When thinking about going to another job one and only one question popped into my mind. How could I leave my job with OH? I LOVE the people here too much! After much thought and prayer I have decided to take the job offer. I realized that even if I am not officially working with OH, that it will remain a huge part of my life. I owe a lot to the members here. The over 5 years I have been on this site, I have seen amazing things happen. I have witnessed stories that bring me courage, hope and inspiration. I have literally talked with thousands of people since I have worked here. Each story impacted my life in one way or another. I will be forever grateful to the people on this site.
Although I won't officially be leaving until the New Year I am making a lot of transitions, any member services issues please email help@obesityhelp.com I have enjoyed being apart of all your lives and working with OH for nearly 3 years. As always I am a PM away to lend support and will continue to be a member on the site!
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Darn colds! on November 18, 2007 2:58 pm
I've had a cold now for a week! Ugh! It has been very draining. This is the first time I've been sick since I had surgery. I think I've worried myself sick about my dad. He is still doing about the same, but I worry about him. We still don't have any answers from before. The whole thing is like one huge nightmare. You wonder when you'll ever wake up from it. Thankfully I only have sniffles and a slight cough now. It's getting better. I haven't been able to visit with my family this week because I don't want to pass this along to my dad. I'm praying it will be completely gone by Thanksgiving.
I hope everyone has a great Thanksgiving! Remember to give thanks for all the wonderful things in your life!
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Dad is home again on November 9, 2007 1:30 pm
They let my dad come home today, but to be honest he's not much better. They have put him on oral antibotics and I don't know how effective they are going to be for him. He is out of breath, but he also hasn't been up very much in the hospital. The surgeon did come to talk with him about different options, and we still don't know what we are going to do next. We are waiting to hear back from the surgeon on what he feels would be a good option. He had said that if he continues to get sepsis that something will have to be done. I just worry he might be too weak at that point to do anything.
Just keep praying for an answer.
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Update about my dad on November 7, 2007 8:59 am
The surgeon came in to see him last night. We are basically going to start from scratch with him to get to the bottom of the problem. He wants to do an X-ray with dye of the bladder to see if they can get an image of the fistula that way. He wants to see the path that it takes. We believe my dad had this done a few months ago and they didn't have any luck seeing it at the other hospital and ended up having to do a GI series under X-ray. We hope to get some clearer answers. The other doctors have been so vague about things, that we really don't know what is going on. Very frustrating. My dad will probably be in the hospital until at least Sunday so they can continue the IV antibotics. They want to make sure that the sepsis is completely controlled and gone this time. They believe it was still lingering around this last time and didn't go away. Other wise things are going really good. It's been hard to continue to work out each day, but I come home late and make sure that I get it in. I got my FLU shot this week and they pulled my blood again to check my folic acid. It had been a little low a few months back. I have an appointment in the next few weeks with the hematologist about my protein S being low. I hope they can tell me what is going on. My PCP wanted to make sure on what to do and I'll probably have to be re-tested for all that again.
I'm just taking it one day at a time!
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Needing good vibes on November 5, 2007 4:58 pm
I haven't been around much lately. My dad was admitted again to the hospital this last week and they did confirm again that he was septic. They have him on IV antibotics. It seems that this will keep happening over and over with the infections in the body and finally your body just can't fight off the infections. This was all causes by a fistula between the bladder and intestine. Stool is going into the bladder area causing the infections. So at this point they have been just sending him home because we haven't been given any options for surgery. Those so far who have looked at this case have told us they wouldn't want to do any surgery. My dad has survived so much. So many times we never imagine he would make it and he did. We have a consult with another surgeon tomorrow. I am praying for a miracle here. I just can't seem to believe that nothing can be done. My dad is sick of living this way. He has to keep getting all these catheters from the blood in the bladder and clots. Then with all the sepsis trying to take over his body, he just continues to get weak. In talking with the surgeon briefly tonight he was very open that some surgeries are risky, but you have to look at the overall possible benefits. Is he better off trying to fix this fistula or just not doing anything and finally the infections take over. When I think about all of this it reminds me of my life. When I thought about surgery, I looked at my options. Do I just keep being 600 pounds? I was told by several surgeons they didn't want to do it. I found one that would. I could have died, but I took the chance. This is just such a hard time right now for me. I want so bad to wave this magic wand and he will be better again. It sucks!
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My Story
My name is Amy Williams. I have come a long way since my appearance on MTV's True Life "I'm Obese". If you have not seen the video, the video is below. I truly have enjoyed the time I’ve given to this site to help other members. I am very involved with running a local support group and attend other surrounding groups to lend support. I love giving back to others along this journey and nothing makes me happier. I'm over 3 years post-op and have lost 411 pounds. I'm over 6 foot tall. Currently I work for a bariatric program as the patient advocate/insurance coordinator. I'm a proud member of the Obesity Action Coalition. My greatest joy is doing adovcacy work for bariatrics and lymphedema. Changing lives and seeing members get their lives back is truly my reward. Please feel free to Email Me or OH Staff Email Member Services for help.
Articles and Media Links I've been featured in (You must have adobe reader to view the articles)
Obesityhelp 2004 Article
Bariatrics Today Magazine Article
E Lymph Notes Article 2004
OH Magazine 2006 Article
OH Magazine 2007 Article
Entertainment Tonight 2004
MTV's True Life "I'm Obese" 2004 Click here to see video
Local CBS update 2006 Click here to see video
Click play on video below to see when I was on MTV's True Life & Update show
Webpage Dedication
When I started looking into WLS, I was not very serious about it. I felt I would die from it and it scared me. One day while watching the Oprah Show, Oprah had a man on that weighed 863 pounds at one time. He had lost over 600 pounds from the gastric bypass. The surgeon only gave him a 40% chance to live. To see that he made it thru the surgery and was able to change his life is such an inspiration to people that are super morbidly obese. The sad part was not many months later "Big" Pete passed away from congestive heart failure. This man has changed more lives then he may never know about and I dedicate this page to him....Please look him up on this site Peter Herida
Augusta, Ga Area Support Group
If you are in the Augusta, Ga. area,sign up for the Augusta Support Group online.
It doesn't matter who your surgeon was, we are here to talk about issues related to WLS and just have fellowship/ friendship. I hope that you will join us.
2008 Support Meeting Schedule
Our 2008 meeting are the first Thursday at 7pm.
Please visit our support group page for complete details of dates, times and locations.
Click Here for complete details.
Join the local Yahoo group to get support,
click the link below
 Click to join Augusta WLS Support Group
Click Here - To learn how to start a ObesityHelp Support Group in your area
List of things I want to do
1. Drive Done!
2. Wash dishes without my back hurting Done!
3. Stand for over 10 minutes Done!
4. Walk to the bathroom without getting winded Done!
5. Tie my shoes Done!
6. Go to walmart and pick something off the rack Done!
7. fit in a regular bathroom stall instead of the handicap one Done!
8. take a shower standing up Done!
9. take a shower with hubby again! woohoo Done!
10. just get out of the house and not be ashamed Done!
11. be on the Oprah show
12. go back to college or get a dream job Done!
13. be able to sit in a chair with arms Done!
14. clean the whole house in one day (like I use to) Done!
15. walk a mile Done!
16. go to the Y and swim Done!
17. go to the mall and hang out Done!
18. see a movie in the threater Done!
19. go on a cruise
20. go snorkling
21. get rid of wheelchair Done!
22. go to my 10 year HS reunion Done!
23. have a make over Done!
24. be under 300 pounds Done!
25. go to a obesityhelp.com convention Done!
26. plant a garden 2/24/08 I have an indoor garden! Done!
27. buckle seat belt without extentions Done!
28. go to church Done!
29. jog, skip, run Done!
30. dance Done!
31. go to glamour shots Done 5/26/07
32. be able to wear sexy underwear instead of "granny panties" LOL Done!
33. Go to Disneyworld Done!
34. see a broadway show
35. meet carnie wilson
36. fly on a plane Done! 3/05/2006
37. be able to walk on the beach and put my feet in the sand, feel the waves on my feet Done! 3/12/2006
38. get a manicure and pedicure Done!
39. be able to get my hair "professionally cut" FIT IN THE CHAIR! Done!
40. buy regular shoes for women Done!
41. wear jeans Done!
42. Go to someone's house with out the fear of breaking toilet, or furniture Done!
43. be social again Done!
44. go to a party (just to say I did) Done!
45. Get out of my wheelchair Done!
46. Speak in front a large crowd Done!
47. Be in a magazine Done!
48. Spread more awareness for Lymphedema Done and still doing it!
49. Help advocate for other people that are obese and need help Done and still doing it!
50. Run a support group Done!
  
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