I am 5'2, and weigh 260 lbs. I have trouble sleeping, depression, swelling in lower extremities, arthritis in ankle, severe back aches, and acid reflux. I have been researching this surgery for about 6 months and think I am ready to take the next step.

June 12, 2003: Saw Dr. Albert Gilman of Salisbury Surgical Associates. He weighed and measured me (5'3, 267 lbs), & really talked alot to me. He is extremely knowledgeable and caring. He asked me alot of questions to be sure I knew why I was doing this. I am very happy with him. He charged me my ins. co-payment ($25.00), and so far that is all. He has set up my appt. with a nutritionist and with a psycologist and has sent my ins. info in. So I guess I play the waiting game. Will post again when I find out or do more.

July 10, 2003: Had my first nutritionist appointment today with Michelle Musselwhite RD. A very informative meeting, though I'm not sure I came away with all of my questions answered. She told me that you only have to drink the protien supplement shakes for about 10-12 weeks post-op. Not what I hear from post-oper's. Go figure!! I seem to be getting more and more depressed. Sure wish this would hurry. Post again soon.....

July 28, 2003: Well, I had my psychological evaluation today with Dr. Daniel S. Gonzales, Ph. D. I dont think he is against the surgery, I just dont think he is 100% FOR it either. He asked alot of questions and asked if I had any. He answered them very efficiently and I think he is out for the better of the person and to make sure the person is VERY informed about this. Especially mentally. He said to give him a week to get a report together, and he would send it to Dr. Gilman and that I should wait at least a week before calling Dr. Gilman. Dr. Gilman told me once we got ALL the reports back, THEN he would submit it to ins. for approval. They can take as long as 30 days to respond. SHEESH!!!! Will post again when I can. A bit of good news...I haven't gained any weight. Still at 267.

Aug.19, 2003: Got my denial from BCBS. They don't feel it is medically necessary for me to have this surgery. I am going to send an appeal in and hope for the best. Pray with me.

August 25, 2003: Sent my appeal letter, letter detailing doctor visits with co-morbidity's, had PCP send letter. Hope it helps.

Sept. 11, 2003: BCBS overturned their denial. They now say it is medically necessary for me after reviewing my information. WooHoo!!! Thank the lord.

Sept.15, 2003: Called Dr. Gilman's office. They didn't know I had been approved. I faxed them the letter. They called back. Want me to come in tomorrow morning to start my tests. WOW!!! Talk about fast!!!

Sept. 18, 2003: Had my upper GI at RRMC. NASTY NASTY NASTY!!! They made me drink this junk that turns into air in your tummy, but then you cant burp. They take x-rays of all that stuff. Seem to went really well. The radiologists and techs are SUPER!!!

Sept. 23, 2003: Saw Dr. Gilman. Lost 5 lbs (nerves). Gave me a date for Oct. 6, 2003. ONLY 12 DAYS AWAY!!!!! Please pray for me. I'm getting scared.

Sept. 25, 2003: Went for my work up at outpatient center. They took blood, talked to me. I met with anesthesiology. Wonderful people. I feel I'll be in good hands. They all have very high remarks about Dr. Gilman doing this surgery. Getting closer. "Lord, thank You for all your glories that you have given me. Thank You for giving me the strength to not give up. Ilove you, Amen".

Oct.5, 2003: Well, tomorrow is the day. I am so scared but ready at the same time. Thank you to EVERYONE who has written me with words of encouragement and prayers. They mean more than I can say. Please continue to pray and think of me through tomorrow when I cross over to the other side. My weight has gone up with all the worrying I did. I ate for comfort. Anyway.. I weigh 283.

March.3, 2004: Well it has been quite a while since I posted as you can see. My opinion of Dr. Gilman has DRASTICALLY changed. I felt I got horrible post-op care. Every concern I had, I felt was met with a flippant attitude by him. I came home with an infection, he took out some staples and gave me a 5 inch hole to pack twice a day. I begged for an antibiotic and never got one. In Nov. I went to see my PCP because I felt Gilman did not seem to care about me. My PCP IMMEDIATELY put me on antibiotics and wanted me to go to a Wound Care Clinic in High Point (Couldn't afford) The last time I saw Gilman was Dec. 16,2003. He never offered to do a wound culture ar anything. Just kept telling me it was like a pimple. I thought I had a leak, he told me we would worry about it later, I thought I had a stricture (on a Friday) he told me to push gatoraid thru my feeding tube and call him on Mon. I have since changed doctors. I now go to a surgeon who is trained in WLS. I am not sure if Dr. Gilman is a certified Bariatric Dr. or not. I was admitted into Forsyth hosp in Jan for 6 days due to an abscess in my abdomen, they did the leak test I had asked Gilman for in Nov and sure enough I have a leak, and I have a HUGE hernia. All a result of my original surgery (hernias are common with this surgery and I do not blame dr. Gilamn for mine). I have had 1 operation since and am going to have to have 2 more. Hernia repair and a revision to my RNY. Ask Gilman if he separates your stomach into 2 SEPARATE pieces or if he just gives you a staple line. Ask him how many of these surgeries he has done, THEN ask Rowan hosp. I got 2 different numbers. I urge anyone considering this surgery to look at several surgeons. Dont stop with the first surgeon you find. And remember, cheap doesnt mean better.I am seeing Dr. Gonzalles of the Surgical Weight Loss Center in Winston salem. Mind you I have lost 68 lbs and am happy. Sorry to vent but I felt it should be posted. I will continue to post, but with information from Dr. Gonzalles as my Dr. Again.. please dont attack me for having an opinion as I would never attack you and I encourage others to express their opinion. I also am NOT discouraging anyone from seeking Dr. Gilman as their surgeon. I only ask you to make a knowledgeable decision no matter who you choose.

June 5,2004: Man I wish people could read. But for those of you who cant, please have someone read my above post where I said my opinions were mine and mine alone and that I do NOT discourage anyone from using Gilman. I still dont discourage from using him. I myself was not happy and moved on. SHEESH!!! Anyway... My surgery date is June 29th. I will finally be rid of this HUGE hernia (I look 7 months pregnant and have pictures to share LOL) and will also get my original RNY redone correctly. The thought of starting over with that diet (clear liquid, soft, etc) is enough to make me gag!! But I did it once and I'll do it again. I have all my vitamins, calcium citrate, b 12, iron and protein shakes down to a timed science. I sure am glad Dr. Gonzalles does detailed bloodwork to check labs so I know if I am getting enough of the stuff in. Also glad my hair stopped falling out. Now my nails are peeling. Man oh man!! Well, I guess I will post later.

June 11, 2003: Well, I am getting my appointments in line for my surgeries. Becoming a reality now. I have the utmost faith in Dr. Gonzalles, but I am still afraid of surgery. My hernia is SO big that everyone, and I mean EVERYONE, asks me when I am due (I look 7 months preg). Now I bet everyone asks if it was a boy or a girl LOL!!!! It doesnt bother me, tho. It actually embarrasses the person who asks me when I say that I am not pregnant, its a hernia. I feel bad because THEY feel bad for asking. I have lost only 1 pound since April, and from Feb to April, I only lost 2 pounds. So from Feb to now I have lost 3 pounds. Still, its a loss and I will take it. (LOL). Hopefully after surgery things will progress more smoothly. I am 55 lbs away from my goal. I need to ask Dr. Gonzalles what his goal weight for me is. Well, take care and God bless and good luck to everyone out there!!

June 27, 2004: Well, I start my liquid diet tomarrow. My surgery is "tentatively" at 7am. Sure am scared. I hope things go better this time. I dont think I can handle anything else going wrong. I asked Dr. Gonzalles what his goal weight is for me. We agree on 140 lbs. I am at 213 now. Thats 73 more to go. I thought maybe 160 was a good weight, but he thinks 140 so thats what I will aim for. Say a prayer for me that things go good.

July 8, 2004: Well, I missed a few days, huh? I cant believe the difference in how good I feel!! I had surgery on the 29th, (Tues) and Dr. Gonzales released me on the following Friday!! Just 3 days!! WOW!! But it has been great. I needed help over the weekend, but nothing from there. Sleeping in the bed with hubby, walking around. Man!! I just cant get over it. I also dont look pregnant at all. Dr. Gonzales told me that was the largest hernia he had ever seen and that it was a challenge to fix it, but he enjoyed it. He also corrected my original RNY (stomach stapling) and said that went well also. He made my incision so he took out the old scar (which had a 5" in diameter area from the infection) and made me a neat new one. I had my first post op visit Wed, (7/7), 8 days after surgery. I lost (drum roll please...) 13 pounds!! I weighed 216 the morning of surgery and I weighed 203 Wed. I could have cried. I bet I do in 4 more pounds. I cant wait to be under 200!!! The online support groups I'm in are great!! No pity, just 100% support. I love the fact that we ask all different questions and get lots of answers. I especially like the help with the plateau busters!! Well, I hope to write more often than I have in the past. Take care!

July 17,2004: Saw Dr. Gonzales Thurs. Down to 198. Oh my goodness to be under 200. He took out my feeding tube and the rest of my staples. Gave me driving priveleges back. Said he was SO proud of me and how well I was doing. I love his office staff. They are the best group out there. Always willing to listen and offer help. Always have a variety of samples for us too. Like chewable calcium and vitamins and these great soy chips from Revival Soy. Man they are GOOD!!!! I went to Walmart the other day and bought a size 14 skort. My hernia was so big that I had to buy bigger clothes and with it gone and losing the weight again... I dont have anything that fits. I love it!!! We go to the beach 3rd week of August. I hope to lose at least 10 more pounds by then. My hubby is SO SWEET!!! He keeps saying I am dissappearing in front of him. I have not been the least bit hungry lately and am having to force myself to eat then I feel nauseaus. Dont like that feeling at all!. Oh well.... hope everyone is great and I will post soon.....

July 28, 2004: Well, I weighed Monday and am down to 193. It is so good. I work at PPG in lexington and I go back to work on 8/8/04 which is a Sunday. That way I work 1 day and am off 2 and then work 2 and off 3. Break myself in slow. It is hard to believe that I am anxious to go back. The difference in how I feel this go around is amazing!! I have lost a total of 90 lbs in 9 months. 23 since my corrective RNY surgery. That is GREAT!! I cant wait to go to the beach. Just 3 more weeks. To anyone reading my profile... please look into Dr. Gonzales at www.surgicalweightlosscenter.com in Winston. He is the most caring Dr. and his staff is the BEST!!! He has a GREAT aftercare program and keeps up with you, does detailed bloodwork and is so compassionate!!! He is just wonderful!! Well, I am gonna go. Will post more later. Good luck to everyone out there!!!

August 9,2004: Well, I made it through 12 hours of PPG. It was not a bad night. I was VERY tired, but I knew I would be. I kept getting compliments and everyone was so sweet. I am down to 188. That is 95 lbs.I have also lost 54 inches. I wear size 14. They fit good. Not tight and not loose. I want to lose 5 more pounds before Oct. 6th. That will be 1 year from the date of my original surgery. I consider June 29th my "rebirth" day, cuz that is when I had my corrective surgery to give me a true RNY. I dont like the extra skin on my thighs. I bought the Buns and thighs of steel videos and I am gonna work on my legs. I dont wear short-shorts, but I am going to the beach in 2 weeks and on a cruise in March so I will be wearing a bathing suit. I feel so good about myself. I am 48 pounds away from my and Dr. Gonzales goal of 140. But you know what??? I think I am quite happy where I am. Anything I lose after the next 5 lbs is gonna be a bonus. Take care everyone and have a super great day!!!!

Aug. 30,2004: Well, I did it!! I am a member of the century club!!! As of this morning I have lost 102 lbs. I weigh 181. We went to the beach last week and for once I felt good. I didnt wear a cover up and my hubby kept telling me how I looked nice. I am so happy. I had a great time and did not run out of breath going to and from the room. Haven't started the exercise videos yet. Shame on me. Its that I work so much. Well... 41 lbs away from goal. Have a great day all and for those of you still waiting or researching... good luck and keep your chin up!!

Sept. 23,2004: Down to 175. Feels SOOOO good. I am loosing about 1-2 lbs a week. That is fine, tho. I gotta tell ya... it is HARD getting that protien in every day and that is the main thing I hear from the other post ops. I get in 110g from shakes and then maybe 30g more from food and when I got my labs back, it said my protien level was low. They want me to up it!!! yeah right!!! If youre wondering a good place to get protein by mail, cheap, go to www.supplementgiant.com. You cant beat those prices. Well, we are going to the beach in 2 weeks. Gotta get some pics on here. I can even see a difference. I wear 12 and 14's in jeans. I think what bothers me the most is guys... The same ones you've seen every day for years, FINALLY see you. Its like... uh-uh!! Go away. LOL. For any post ops looking for a good group where you can ask questions, talk and anything else ABOUT anything else, go to yahoo groups and plug in LIFE AFTER WLS. Some of the absolute best people and best info there. Will update later. My updates are getting farther apart and I dont mean for them to be. LOL

Oct. 17, 2004: Wow.. been a while. I have been busy. We went to the beach again and really enjoyed ourselves. Fished off the pier. All we caught were blowfish. I find that I am COLD alot. My hair has started falling out again. Sheesh!! Going through the depression stage now. Dont know why. I have so much to be happy about, but I just feel sad. Gonna go see Dr. Smith about it and hope he can help. Talk later...

Nov. 6, 2004: Oh goodness. Time sure does sneak past, huh?!?! Well, I didn't make it to see Dr. Smith. Still need to. I am in the 160's now. Wearing some 10's and mostly 12's. Really want to stop losing now. I am VERY happy with my size and so is the hubby. We have several Christmas parties to attend this year and for once I am actually looking forward to going. The hospital party will be at the Country Club so I get to buy a NICE dress. Ya know, there is so much more to choose from when you get out of the plus section. Will be my first outing where I think I may drink some. Have a feeling I wont drink much, but still... I also am excited about going to Dr. Gonzalles' WLS group Christmas party. Those people have become family to me. Well, I must go. Will try not to stay gone so long. Take care and God bless each of you!!!

Nov. 28, 2004: Well, I cant seem to find an outfit that I like. I have been all over hell and creation and NOTHING appeals to me. It is amazing the variety I have now to choose from. I am leaving in a little while to go to Dover, Deleware to gamble. I paid mine and my moms fare to go and that is her Christmas gift from me and hubby. She is SO excited!! Me too. Well, I hope everyone had a wonderful thanksgiving like I did. Take care and keep your chins up!!

Dec. 5, 2004: Well, I have been to 2 Christmas parties and have several more to go to. I am down to 160 lbs and feel super. A lady I have known for probably 20 years, but haven't seen in about 2, came up to me yesterday and asked if I knew where Pegi Freedle was? I said, "Ann. It's me." She was flabbergasted!! It was not an act. It was real. We both almost cried. That was the best compliment I have gotten. I went to my Dr's WLS Holiday party Fri. nite. All those people who are enjoying life. All those people who feel so much better and it SHOWS!! There were lots of tears, hugs, and "Oh my Gods". I think they have become my 2nd family. Finally someone I can talk to that truely understands what I feel , someone who knows what I am going thru. It is wonderful!! I had my 6 month check up with Dr. Gonzalles Thursday. In 20 more pounds, I will be at goal weight. I feel so good now, tho. While I was at Dr. Gonzalles office I met another Gilman patient. It is so sad. Gilman has made a mess of so many lives. We started talking and I told her my story and how I believe I had ALOT to do with Gilman leaving the state, and I thought she was going to cry. She now knows why her weightloss stopped and why she has started regaining her weight. She found Dr. Gonzalles thru another Gilman patient, Trina Alveraz, that I knew, and who I referred to Gonzalles when she started having problems,and he also did corrective surgery to fix her. And yet there is another Gilman patient that emailed me thru reading my profile here that I finally convinced to see Dr. Gonzalles. She has regained all but 20 pounds of what she lost and had started blaming herself. When she went to see Gilman, he blamed her, too. I told her that was wrong. She didn't fail, her surgery didn't fail, her SURGEON failed her. He did the same thing to her that he has done to all of the others... a staple line. This girl posted her problems on her profile and I dont feel that I have the right to name her. However, if you are at all computer literate, you can find it. There are 4 more Gilman patients that have emailed me. 2 have gone on to other Dr.s and 2 are scared to death. I am working on them and getting them some help. Its not easy tho when you blame yourself. If you are reading this and having a question, let me give you 1 thing to think about... When you had a feeding tube in, did you ever see anything in it? You shouldn't. You should NEVER see anything in the feeding tube. Questions??? Email me. God bless you all.

Jan 6,2005: WOW!! A new year. I weigh 158. Size 10's are loose and 8's are snug. A single digit in my jeans size. Who'd have thot?? I cant believe it. I cant believe how much better I feel and how much more I can do. I felt like Cinderella at the hospitals Christmas party. It was my day to shine. I walked ALL OVER HANES MALL last night to do some more "After Christmas" shopping and never wore out. I am 18 lbs from goal but scared to get there. I figure I'll lose at least 10 lbs when I have PS and then I would be TOO thin. We'll see what the PS Dr. says. Well, I hope everyone has a wonderful year in 2005. Remember to be thankful. Even those of us with problems have something to be thankful about. Keep your chin up!!!

Feb. 20, 2005: Well, I dont get a chance to get on the pooter as much anymore. Kids, hubby and everything else. I am still doing good. Hovering between 153 and 155. Size 8 and 10. I went to Kohls Fri (had a GREAT summer sale) and tried on some size 6 capri's. They fit. They are a little tighter that I would prefer, but I figeure by the time I start wearing summer clothes, they'll fit just right. I go see Dr. Gonzales on Mar. 3, and I think I am going to ask him if we can fix my hernia maybe in Aug, rather than waiting until Jan. I cant use my stomach mucles whatsoever until he gets the mesh in for fear of ripping what he has allready done and I NEED to start exercising. I need to get a scanner so I can put my pics on here. I saw a commercial on the tv about IBS and the symptoms were what I've been having, but I have been blaming gas or that I was lactose intolerant. I started researching IBS and I really think that is what is going on with me. A girl from 1 of my online support groups suggested metamucil, (thats what she takes) so I bought some capsules. I am going to try that until I see Dr. G in Mar. If its no better, I will ask for an Rx of Zelnorm. I am also going to cut back some on my calcium citrate as I read I only need half of what I have been taking. I also ordered some fiber rich foods from www.netrition.com. I cant stand the pain and the bloating/swelling and the constipation. So I gotta do something. I hope everyone is having a good time getting ready for spring. I cant wait!!!

Mar 10, 2005: WOW!! I sure have been gone a while, huh?? Funny how we tend to get busy and forget to update. I just have more energy now then pre-op and love to keep busy. Well, Kristie Ramsey (former Gilman patient) had her corrective surgery done by Dr. Gonzales. I went to see her the other day. She is doing good other than feeling like a Mac truck plowed her down. Her spirits were up and she seemed to be in a good mood. She loves Dr. Gonzales as much as we all do. I think she is the 5th one so far and 2 more are doing their paperwork. Good luck you two. It will happen before you know it. You wont believe the difference! Everyone say a yipee for spring!!! I love the flowers and weather and just being outside. I bought a new scanner for my pooter. Now I just wish I knew how to use it to put some pics on here of me!!! LOL!!! Take care everyone!!!

April 19, 2005: Well, still dont know how to use the scanner to pics of me up here. So I am not the computer savvy type. LOL.. Been working outside. Had mulch delivered. Bought flowers and just been loving the outside as a general rule. Getting ready to open our pool. Hubby dug our bikes out and we are starting to all ride some with our son. Been a LONG time since I rode a bike. I weigh 148 and wear fitting size 6, or loose 8's. Who'd have thought. People I haven't seen in a while actually dont recognize me. I am not ashamed that I had this surgery and when people ask how I have lost the weight, I tell them the truth. Dont be ashamed. Be honest. Be proud that you cared enough about yourself to do something. Take care everyone and I'll talk at ya soon!!!

July 8, 2005: Wow!! Been a while, huh? I have been SOOO busy. I so love being outdoors. Still riding the bikes. Went to the beach in june and had an absolute wonderful time. Amazing thing to see men actually checking me out. Embarrassed me a bit tho. I had a man at work comment on how good I look and how he was proud of the weight loss. Seems though he couldn't remember me and I have worked at PPG for about 10 years. I told him alot of people didn't remember me. People tend to look thru fat folks. He blushed and walked away. I weigh 145 and am very comfortable in size 6. My husbands 20 year class reunion is in Sept. The dress is casual to elegant. I think I am going to opt for a scaled down elegant look. Classy, but not over bearing. I deserve it and I want him to be even more proud than he is. Take care everyone and enjoy the summer!!!!

July 30, 2005: Summer is so different without the extra weight. I love to be outside, work outside, everything. My son and I went to Blue Waters the other day. I am still self conscience about the extra skin, but not as bad as I was about the weight.. I am still at 145. I am happy here tho I find myself wishing the scale would move. It is a number thing for me. I cant stand to see the same numbers over and over. The month of July was 144 then 145 then 144 then 145. I weigh every day and that is a no no. Good luck to everyone. If you are reading this and would like to ask me some questions or talk.... email me. I will answer right back!!!

Aug. 11, 2005: Whoa!! We just got back from a vacation at the Outer Banks. I climbed to the top of Jockeys Ridge with my family and ran back down, I climbed the Hatterras lighthouse, played in the water, did LOTS of walking in sand. All things I couldn't have done before. I had a great time!!. We were on the go continuously. It was great. I ate like a pig. I love fresh seafood. Back down to 144. Wearing a size 6. Dont even need a bra, and the hair is still falling out, tho not as heavily. Have to get my bloodwork done to check all my levels. I hope anyone reading this has the after care that Dr. Gonzales has. Routine bloodwork is vital. Take care and I will write again soon. Oh yeah!!! As of Aug 1, I have lost 87 inches. WOW!!!!

Sept. 1,2005: Hey hey. Doing pretty good at updating more regularly, huh? LOL. Now I am going back and forth with 143 & 144. I have lost a total of 87 1/2 inches and 140 lbs. I got my labs back and I think they are within the norms. I see Dr. Gonzales next week. I'll post what his ideas are. I am going to see about a tummy tuck and a boob job. My energy levels are wonderful, but I think I am depressed. Yes, I have said I was going to see someone, and I guess I need to. Why was I so ready to see a doc about the outside of me, but dont want to see one for the inside? God Bless everyone and I am saying prayers for the people affected by Hurricanne Katrina. How devastating. Love to all.

Oct. 1,2005: A month, huh? I weigh 143. I go see a PS on the 24th. I wear a 6 in most everything. I am never happy where I am with my weight. I weigh EVERY day and just want to see a lower number than I saw before. I cant stand it. Please understand one thing people... Life doesnt become hunky dorey just because you lose weight. The sand shifts and the problems just get new names. I see I am depressed and dont want to depress anyone else, so I am gonna go. I sent in my pics, so hopefully they will be up soon. I will post after I talk to the PS. Take care and good luck!!

Oct. 13,2005: I hope this finds everyone doing good. I am in better spirits, sort of. I am trying to take care of my mom, who is battling cancer and its hard on everyone. Getting ready to pack up my summer clothes and break out the winter ones. I am not getting rid of anything tho, cuz I cant imagine getting any smaller. I talked to Debbie, who had PS with the doc I am going to, and she said he will take LOTS of pics. Yikes!! Take care all. Weight is 142.

Oct. 26, 2005: Went to see the PS. He did lots of pics. Especially of the hernia. Said he will submit it all to ins and hopefully I will hear something soon. We are going for a TT. Saw Debbie C. while I was there. OH MY GOODNESS!!!! She looks AWESOME!! He did a wonderful job on her arms and TT. I hope I hear soon. Wow!! Wearing a size 4 in Tommy Hilfiger. A might snug, but I am able to breathe. Hospice has been called in for mom, so it is real hectic for me right now. I hope everyone is well and I will update soon. Hopefully with a PS date!!

Nov.1, 2005: Well nothing new from PS. Still waiting for them to call. I have lost a total of 91 ". Thats ALOT!!! I sure am not ready for cold weather. I think I am gonna look into updating with a colorful profile. Talk soon.....

Nov.10, 2005: Hi!! Great news!! Insurance approved me for the hernia repair and for removing the cysts on my head. I go see Dr. Cochran on the 17th to set up a date for my hernia repair/TT/muscle reconstruction. I think I am gonna try to hold off until the middle of Dec. That way I have a month to finish my shopping for Christmas. I can also go to the 5 parties that are planned. I have changed my goal weight to 135. I am at 140-141 now. I imagine I'll be at goal with the TT. I am so excited. I have seen his work and he is a gifted doctor. I am going to ask for prices on arms, thighs and a breast lift with implant. I hope everyone has a terrific thanksgiving and remembers to remain thankful for all we have.

Dec, 1,2005: Well, about 2 weeks away from PS. I scheduled it this way so I could get done with all my Christmas stuff. Well, I have it all bought, but NOTHING is wrapped, no tree is up, nothing. Sheesh!! I am so excited about my TT and my hernia repair. Dr. Cochran says you dont lose as much as people think with PS. I have lost over 140 lbs and he guesses he'll take off between 4-9 lbs of skin. One fellow on here lost over 300 lbs and had 30 lbs removed from his stomach. WOW!! Thats a lot. I just want to have it gone. I asked about prices on breasts. Total cost would be around 5 grand. Thats about what I thought. I hope everyone had a good thanksgiving. Mine was fine.

Dec 13, 2005: Oh goodness. Tommarrow is my surgery day!! I have to be at the hospital at 6am and boy am I nervous. Got the tree up, gifts bought and wrapped and am ready to heal!! Keep me in your thoughts and/or prayers. I will post as soon as I am able.

Dec. 17,2005: I am home and sore. My head hurts worse than anything. He removed 3 cysts from my head. The surgery was 5 hours long, but he had a LOT to do. Dr. Cochran is WONDERFUL!!! I have been up walking a lot and think I am doing pretty good. I'll post more as I feel up to staying up more. Take care

Dec. 22, 2005: Well, I get stronger each day. I am amazed at the results. I haven't measured yet to see the difference yet from the hernia. I will soon. I still tire out so very quickly and I will be glad to get the stitches out so I can scrub my head. I have had a couple friends come by and they can see the difference even with all the swelling. I go see Dr. Cochran today. I will post later with what I find out today. I hope he is as proud of me as I am. If I dont post before; merry Christmas to each of you!!!

Dec,26 2005: Well, I got my stitches out. Dr. Cochran was pleased with everything. I forgot to ask how much he took off. I sure will be glad when the swelling goes down. I had a great Christmas, but am glad its done.

Jan. 8, 2006: A new year, huh? Things are certainly more different for me. A lot better. Most, but not all, of my swelling has gone down. I am back in some of my jeans. He only took about 3 lbs of skin off, but 11 inches. That is amazing. I am flat!! I am very happy and reccomend him as a plastic surgeon to EVERYONE. His disposition is terrific. He is always smiling and laughing. Dr. Gonzales' party was last night. It was so much fun!! I was one of the models and felt great. I am still a bit self-conscience, but I love life. I started doing Richard Simmons videos on 1-1-06 to see if I can get some of the flappy (LOL) skin to tone up some. I am gonna take my inches Feb 1 and see if it is worth it. If it is, then I will continue them, if not...hmmmmm. Take care everyone and have a safe 2006.

Mar. 18, 2006: Wow!! Sure has been awhile since I updated. I have been doing great and staying busy. Didnt have enough of an impact on inches lost to keep doing the videos. I have been tossing around joining Golds Gym We can join for $7 a month, because hubby is in fire dept. We did a tour of the place and talked to them. Summer is coming fast and I can go outside and do things and get lots of exercise. I always do. I finally got something for my moods. Doc put me on Effexor. I have been taking it for 4 days now, cant tell yet. I hope it helps. I can comfortably wear a size 6 Levis and small in tops. My loss is leveling off and I am glad. I have 5 pounds to go to be at goal of 135, but if I dont get there, thats ok, too. Almost all the swelling is gone from the TT and I am happy. Still dont think I'll get more PS tho. Take care every1!!

April 14, 2006: Sure has been awhile. I took the Effexor for a while and started having bad pain in my jaw around the ear area. When to see my PCP today and he says I have TMJ. Has put me on a non-steroid anti-inflammatory pill to see if it helps. If not, he said he may send me to a Neurologist, or an oral surgeon. Weight is 137 and am having no appetite at all. I am doubling up on the protein shakes to simply get calories in. Blood work came back great and my bone density test came back normal. See what being faithful to supplements and protein does??

June 23, 2006: Gracious, I sure get sidetracked. Been busy. Thought I would share some good things. Went to Carowinds Wed with some friends. I actually thought I wasn't big enough for some of the rides. I wanted the bars to come down further. Rode almost everything and walked around all day. Had a wonderful day. Hubby has bought a motorcycle and we ride with different friends and I dont mind riding. Something I wouldn't have done before. Lastly... went back to Dr. Cochran (the PS). Seems I have a teeny hernia poking through the side of the mesh. Said it actually may have been pushed there when he put the mesh in when we did the TT. It is up high, kinda right under my right breast. Anyway, I asked him about fixing it. He said sure. He is gonna go in at the top of my original RNY scar and take out that scar, put in a larger piece of mesh and tighten the top abdominal muscles and remove some skin. I dont know what the REAL name for it is, but I call it an "upper TT" LOL. I have a small bit of loose skin around the rib cage and right in the middle of the upper part of my abdomen. He is going to go ahead and take that out and firm everything up. I asked about doing my arms, but I would have to go to a different hospital (because they have better prices) and he doesnt think my insurance will pay for the extra amount of anesthesia for my arms like they did for the TT and my out of pocket cost will be higher than I want to spend right now ($4690.) I have too many summer plans right now. I am paying for 3 people to take college classes. I am going to Colorado next week, Patriots Point in July, beach in August, and doing a train ride weekend in Va in October. Needless to say; my resources are TAPPED OUT!!!! I am loving the outdoors and loving life. I have to say that anyone looking for a plastic doc, you REALLY need to look into Dr. Gerald Cochran. He is the best. His bedside manner is terrific, he always smiles and laughs, I just love him and his office lady, Sylvia. He works EXTRA, EXTRA hard to find ways to get ins. to pay for everything. If it doesn't, then his prices are very reasonable!! Anyway... take care everyone and I hope you all are enjoying a great summer!!

July 2, 2006: Wow!! Just got back from Colorado last night. Had the time of my life. What a beautiful state!! The flights went perfect. Me and my friend Gail climbed to the top of Table mountain. I got some great pics. Have to say though that the altitude is so different that I got out of breath. I got some pics and if I figure out how to do it, I'll put one up on here. Anyway... just wanted to update. Ate like a little piggy the whole week, but I can still fit into my jeans (size 6 CK's). I'll weigh 2marrow. Take care everyone!!

Aug. 2, 2006: Came home from hosp yesterday. Dr. Cochran said where he had used mesh last time for my hernias, it had ripped open in alot of places and I had a lot of little hernias. He put in cadaver skin in hopes that my abdominal wall will accept it and grow into it. He did a full abdominal muscle reconstruction and took out the excess skin so that when the swelling goes down, my whole tummy should be nice and flat. Well, I need to go take something for pain. The pain is REALLY bad this time. Hugs to all!!!

Aug. 22, 2006: My moms cancer is spreading everywhere, so I spend alot of time there and we just found out hubbys grandma (91) also has cancer. Hers is pancreatic, liver and gall bladder. She is going SO fast. That woman is my favorite little lady in the world. I dont know what I will do without her. I went to see Dr. Cochran yesterday. He is very pleased with everything. He believes my body is accepting the cadaver skin and that is good news. I am still a bit swollen, but I can look down and see a nice, flat, tummy. It is nice and tight, too. We went to the beach a week ago and I had so much fun. I wore a bathing suit (1 piece of course) and I looked fine. I wish I wasn't so self conscious about my arms. Take care everyone and tell your loved ones that you love them!! My weight is 140.

Sept. 30,2006: Wow!! We went on a benefit ride today. That is me in front of my hubbys bike. I am exactly 1 month post abdominal muscle reconstruction/upper TT. I am still swollen, but the jeans in this picture are Levis, size 6. I am so pleased. I had an absolutely wonderful time riding and felt comfortable on the back of the bike. Something I never would have done before surgery. My weight is staying at 140. I would love to lose 5 more pounds, but I'm thrilled with where I am. I have started taking clogging lessons. I love it!!! We are performing at the Lexington BBQ festival in Oct. I will be wearing a cute little black skirt outfit that the teacher made. Talk about nervous!! Good luck to everyone, no matter where you are in your journey!!

April 6, 2007:  Wow. Sure has been a long time. I get so busy. My weight has leveled off. I stay btween 130 and  140. Was 137 this morning. I no longer work at PPG. I could have stayed, but they offered me a layoff and I checked out the community college. I got in the nursing program and took the layoff. I start in the summer semester. I only have 5 or 6 classes to take and I can start my actual hospital training. (I have been working toward this for a few years doing 1 class at a time). I am taking 2 classes this summer and 3 in the fall. Allready signed up and ready. Mom passed away Feb 13, and this was also a dream she had. She was an RN and my sister is an RN and mom wanted me to be one. Wish me luck. Take care all!!!

Oct.7, 2007: My goodness. How time flies. I am currently in college full-time wotking toward becoming a Nurse Anesthetix. I have another year with DCCC, then I will transfer to A&T university. I have applied for some scholorships, and feel certain I will qualify. I have had some problems with B-12 and had to get shots. Seem to be good now. At least with that. I had my annual bloodworkup done last week and they called me back in. Seems I am losing blood somewhere. My hemoglobin is 9.6, and my hematocrit is 29.8 and all my other blood levels are bleeped up as well. He scheduled me to have a colonoscopy done. He said while colon cancer is not common in 40 year olds, I am predisposed to it, and he wants to get that done first. (Lovely, huh?)
My weight says within 10 pounds. Up and down and up and down.  Wearing size 6 and 8 in pants and a medium in tops. Still feel fat, still feel ugly. I guess some things never change.
 I hope everyone is doing well. I am going to get a more recent picture put up!