Claudette B.
This has been a long trip. I attempted to get approval last year only to be denied by my health carrier. I started from scratch and finally received the approval I have been longing for in November 2005. My surgery date has been set for January 11, 2006. I am both excited, nervous and worried. One moment the "what if's" are racing through my head and at other times I am excited about all the things I will be able to do that I have been missing out on.
I am glad to have run across this website! What a better way to have peers that have gone through or will go through this experience. It is a useful tool to gain information and make friends.
Thanks for visiting my profile.
December 5, 2005
Christmas is quickly approaching and I should be thrilled but all I can think about is what is happening next month.
I finally told my Mom about my surgery. She took it better than what I thought she would. She said she would support my decision. However, since I have told her she keeps asking me if I ever considered Jenny Craig, Adkins etc. OF COURSE I HAVE! I know she is concerned but, well, I should just stop here before I get on my soap box.
I keep checking the profiles of other RNY people to see how they are getting along. I know it is going to be hard for me to adjust to the new way of eating, thinking and managing but I know it will be worth it. I am thankful for this site and the truthful profiles that shed the light on WLS. I will continue to pray as my date approaches, knowing that this is the right decision. I thank GOD for this day and the days I will have after WLS that will allow me to be more of a productive Mother, Daughter and Friend.
December 16, 2005
Today was pre-op testing day. I was nervous but things went well. It truly was a full day event. That is one more step behind me and one more step closer to surgery.
December 22, 2005
Today was the all day nut. class. Wow, what a lot of information! My dear Husband went with me and he joined in by asking questions and taking notes. What a lot of do's and don'ts! My brain was spinning when we left the class. Will I be able to remember everything? Will I have to have a drain tube? I don't want to take a shot every day! Will I like the taste of all the protein drinks? Sip, sip, sip, sip. 2 oz of this, 75 grams of that, 100 mg of this GEESH! I know this information is necessary and Thank God that they give out papers with the information! One more day and one more class down. 20 more days!
December 28, 2005
Ok, it's really starting to feel like it's getting closer! Today I went shopping for some of the vitamin supplements, protein items and things to take to the hospital. Is this chewable, does this come in liquid? Before all my medicines I would just dump by the handful into my mouth and take a gulp of water. Doesn't sound like that will ever happen again but that's ok. Brain fade>>>>>>>I should have started by spirometer record two days ago but completely spaced it. Wow, it's the count down. My mind is full of what to pick up, what to keep track of, getting everything organized at home for the DH and kids while constantly thinking about the upcoming surgery.
14 days and counting.....
January 1, 2006
A new day, a new year and soon to be a new me. 10 days to go.
January 6, 2006
5 days to go and counting! I have been running the usual mixed emotions. One minute I am excited and the other nervous and scared. God must be tired of hearing from me the last couple of days. I sure have talked to him alot! He is my comfort and strength.
I have started to pack for the big day, constantly with that "mental list" going through my head. Not wanting to forget anything. Then again, how much do you need to walk or lay in bed? It's not like I am going out on the town or anything! Though I might end up feeling like I have been run over by the party train!
I was pleasantly shocked at work today. My Manager called me into his office and closed the door. I thought for sure that I was getting ready to get "talked to" for some reason, though I couldn't imagine what I did to warrant it. Needless to say I was shocked when he advised me how glad he was with my decision to have WLS. He thought it was great that I was trying to take control of my health and future. He even went so far as to say that he wished his sister would consider doing something to better her health. His sister is an RN. I have never met his sister and he didn't say whether or not she had weight issues. I was in such shock that he was telling this to me that I know I must have had a dumb look on my face. I thanked him several times and explained that his kind words and support did mean quite a lot.
Now the kicker is......when I went to pick up my kids from my Mother's house I told her about the above scene. (she use to work at the same place and knows my boss). Anyway, her comment was "his sister isn't dumb, she's a nurse, she knows what happens!" Saying that my Mom is not for my WLS is an understatement. Just another chance for her to point out that she is not happy with my decision. Oh well. What can ya say!
January 10, 2006
Day before surgery and the nerves are on over load!!! It didn't help that my DH told me about his dream last night in which I DIED. Now it didn't have anything to do with WLS but I couldn't help but think....maybe it was a sign. You know, the things that you try to read between the lines and determine what they actually mean. What a way to start out the day!!!
I will be leaving shortly for my "last meal". I am allowed to have a normal breakfast and then the rest of the day liquids. Family is taking me out to breakfast this morning which is nice.
I found a post today with a list of safe medicines and un-safe meds. Here is the list for future reference:
DRUGS THAT CAN DAMAGE THE POUCH:
Advil
Aleve
Amigesic
Anacin
Anaprox
Ansald
Anther-G
Arthropan
Ascriptin
Asprin
Asproject
Azolid
Bextra
Bufferin
Butazolodin
Celebrex
Clinorial
Darvon compounds
Disalcid
Dolobid
Erythromycin
Equagesic
Feldene
Fiorinal
Ibuprofin
Indocine
Ketoprofen
Lodine
Meclomen
Midol
Motrin
Nalfon
Naprosyn
Nayer
Orudis
Oruval
Pamprin-IB
Percodan
Ponstel
Rexolate
Tandearil
Tetracycline
Tolecin
Uracel
Uracel
Vioxx
Voltaren
DRUGS THAT ARE CONSIDERED SAFE:
Benadryl
Colace
Dimetap
Dulcolax-Suppositories
Fleet Enema
Gas-X
Glycerin Suppositories
Imodium AD
Milk of Magnesia
Mylicon
Peri-Colace
Phazyme
Robitussin
Safetussin
Sudafed
Triminics (all)
Tylenol
Tylenol cold products
Tyenol EX Strength
January 11, 2006 *****the big day******* thru January 15
Nervous? Who's nervous? Ok, ME ME ME ME ME! My Husband and myself arrive at Carmel St Vincent Hospital by 11:00 am (we had to be there no later than 11:30 am). Surgery is scheduled for 1:30 pm. They immediately take me back and weigh me. To my surprise I have lost 5 pounds since my pre-surgery photo shoot :)
I was escorted to a room where I would wait, wait and wait. They still hadn't done all the paperwork or vitals. I paced the floor so much that they finally went to get my husband and asked him to come back to my room so he could calm me down. They finally had me change into one of those lovely hospital gowns, filled out all the paperwork, signed my forms and "the process" was underway!
While I waited for my turn at the cutting block a few ladies from our church came to visit and say a prayer. That was great! My Husband, Mom and Step Dad waited for the anesth. (spelling?) dr. He came in, seen how nervous I was so he gave me a valium! That helped with the nerves but also help my mouth run even more! I know I was talking a mile a minute but couldn't make myself slow down! Shortly after the surgeon came in, went over everything that would happen to me and then the count down was started.
They decided to wheel me down to the op. room then have me walk to the table. A little numbing medicine to start the IV was given. The IV was started. The anesth. Dr. said good night and away I went!
After several hours I awoke in the recovery room to an Open Rouxen-y. Having an open procedure before, I knew I would be in pain. The fact that I am a major pain whimp doesn't help, however.
The recovery room nurses were wonderful! I did have to stay in the recovery area longer than normal because they were "busy" and had to get a free bed for me in the bariatric unit. After a while, I was taken to the second floor and my room for the remainder of my stay.
Did you see that Mac Truck? I know it must have been huge! Massive! Something horrible to cause this much pain! The morphine pump was nice. Now, getting me up in two hours after coming to my room to walk.....well, I know if I wasn't a christian I would have probably called the nurse a few choice words. I know that is what they are required to do but boy, give it a little time would ya!!!!! The pain mounted and so did the medication. Unfortunately, by the day after my surgery they had an accident for lack of a better term and overmedicated me! Literally! They had me so far waisted that they called in the surgeon, the surgeons assistant, the head nurse and called my family to the side for a discussion! I guess my pupils were like small black dots. They couldn't hardly get a response from me. I did find out later that I did manage to speak a few words during this fog though. My girlfriend (laughingly) tells me that all I said was BBIIIGGGG ........MMMMAAAAACCCC.........TTTRRRUUUUCCCCKKKK! Glad I could make someones day!
They were able to turn around the misadventure with the medication and hound me to walk, walk walk. Three days after surgery I was released to go home.
January 19, 2006
On the road to losing! I still have pain and manage that with the pain medication. Each day is better than the last. I am continuing to try the right fit of protein drink and meals. Easier said than done I think! I am sure everything will fall into place eventually. Right now I just spend most of my time tired, in pain or sipping
something.
January 31, 2006
Things are progressing. I suppose the way they should be. I am up and about a lot more and sleeping less. I still have to take pain meds once in a while but not often at all. I still have the swollen/bloated feeling in my stomach which I hope passes soon. I am very very sick of oatmeal, cottage cheese and applesauce. Honestly, the thought of eating any more of it makes me want to barf! I was never a fan of any one of those items before surgery. Needless to say, I hate them now more than ever! I've always loved water so that is a plus!
I am struggling with protein intake. It sits so heavy in my pouch that I cannot get all of it in in a day. I am still working on getting that routine down.
The good news is that I am down about 25 pounds from my starting weight! Yeeeee Haaaaaa! There is a light at the end of this full liquid/pain hell :)
March 10, 2006
Things are looking better! People are starting to notice my weight change. I can tell the difference in my face. My clothes are starting to look a little sloppy. However, when I look in the mirror I still see the same ol' me. I am having small WOW moments, just waiting for the big WOW moments!
I am at last glad that I had the surgery. Technically I was glad all along but it was hard to convince myself when I was on full liquids and had the pain thing going on!
I am now down 43 pounds and I am feeling better each day. I long for the summer months when I can walk further and do more things. The winter is limiting my activities. Now that I am starting to have more energy I am anxious to do more things!
Thank You God for my blessings!
March 24, 2006
I am now 10 weeks post op and feeling WONDERFUL! I am down 52 pounds and I am starting to see the difference now. I am starting to get the compliments from my co-workers which has shocked me. I never have been one to handle compliments. This is a new experience for me so it should be interesting!
I am still holding onto my clothes. I haven't been shopping yet. However, it's getting to the point that I better go shopping soon or I am going to be walking and suddenly feel a draft when by pants hit the floor. :)
April 29, 2006
Time is moving quicker these days! I am noticing my weight change more and more, it makes the beginning process worth all the pain.
I had a man that I work with come up to me a few days ago and tell me that he didn't know how to say it but that I "look different". He eventually said that I had lost a lot of weight but was concerned whether or not he should say anything because that is a touchy subject with women lol I told him that I was thrilled that he noticed and thanks for the compliment. It was funny to see him stammer around trying to find the right words while trying not to offend me :)
I can finally tell that I am looking different. Everyone else noticed the changes more than I did because I look at myself daily. It is nice to look in the mirror and see that I actually do have bone structure to my face rather than a round blob.
66 pounds down and counting!
May 8, 2006
71 pounds down and the weight is slipping off! I never thought I would see the day!
May 27, 2006
Awwww shucks! My dear Husband told me again today how proud he is of me and my weight loss. Isn't he the sweetest!!
I really need to get a new picture of me posted. One of these days I will be computer savey enough to figure it out :)
July 8, 2006
Boy time is really flying by! I think it might have something to do with me having more energy and staying busy all of the time!
I am down 90 pounds. The fat is falling off and so is the hair. I will be glad when my hair stops falling out. It looks like a shedding dog has been in my bathroom in the mornings when I comb my hair.
I had a wow moment about a week ago. You may not think it's anything special but to me it made me smile from ear to ear! Have you ever been cold and someone offered you their jacket or sweatshirt? I have NEVER EVER accepted because I knew it would be too small and then I would be humiliated. Like trying to fit a small balloon over a huge watermelon. Well, I was cold and my husband offered me his sweatshirt. I thought about it and decided I would give it a try. It fit and I had plenty of room!!!!!!!! I wore that old sweatshirt so proudly that I was about in tears.
August 7, 2006
My poor husband! I am losing the weight and with school clothes, book rental and school supplies.....there's no money left for my clothes shopping. Needless to say, I am hitting my Husbands closet! I have snatched several t-shirts. Wish I could find something to wear to work which is business casual. Things are pretty limited in my closet right now! Before they were limited because I couldn't fit into anything because I was too big. I guess this is a good problem to have compared to before.
I am down 99 pounds. I look in the mirror and I can see changes. However, I still see the obese person looking back at me. I know that I am losing weight and I can see and tell the difference. I don't know if I will ever look at myself and really see the new me!! The self esteem is hard to capture after all of the years of being so big. I guess at times I don't feel worthy of wearing the "normal" clothes. I'll put it in the Lord's hands. He will guide me through this lull.
August 15, 2006
Down 103 pounds. THANK YOU GOD!
September 26, 2006
108.8 pounds gone! YEAH!!!
Something I never thought would happen......people are starting to tell me that I shouldn't lose any more. That I am too skinney. Well, I know that I am NOT too skinney. Though I am still having trouble seeing myself in the mirror, I still see the old me.
I feel better now than I have my entire life! I have more energy and enjoy doing more things. I am even smaller now than when my husband and I got married. What a shocker!
October 9, 2006
Weight change is starting to slow down some and my eating habits are taking a slight turn. I need to drink more water. I do the "no no"....I weigh myself every day. It works for me because it helps keep myself accountable. I am down 109 pounds and feel completely different than I did before surgery. I can see the changes in the mirror but I also see the "bigger" me than what other people are seeing. I struggle with this part of the weight loss. I don't know that I will ever be able to see myself as others see me. So many years of being fat and unhappy. It's hard to change your outlook for yourself when it has been poor for so long. I have never been one for high self esteem or confidence and have always been the shy one in the crowd. All of this is a life change, not just the weight.
I went into surgery thinking that I would just be happy with losing the weight, I wouldn't be concerned with plastics. Well, my mind has changed. I am 9 months post op and KNOW that I want plastics for at least my stomach. Mistakenly I mentioned it to my Mom who had a few choice words to say about my choices. "what are you....anorexic now!!" "you better think long and hard before you do anything like that" etc etc etc. I don't know what I was thinking.....I should have kept it to myself, though my husband is surrporting me 100%. Of course there is the financial aspect of plastics which may make the entire thing unattainable and a mute point!
Regardless of the self doubt and negative feedback, today is a day the Lord has made. I WILL rejoice and be glad in it!!
