Elizabeth Torres
It's 7/7/07 and 8 months today since surgery!
Jul 08, 2007
God bless everyone. I am happy to say that I not ony have officially hit the 100 pounds lost mark, but have in fact now lost 105 lbs. I am down to 210 from 315. I have also found a job and have been working for the past 3 weeks now. I went to an amusement park in Long Island today and I got on the rides with a little more confidence than before, when I had to be asked to get off a couple of rides due to my weight at the time. I was still a little hesitant this time, perhaps just traumatized from before lol, but everything was excellent and I fit so much better in rides. It was a great feeling! On another note, I have been doing okay. Hair loss finally stopped about a month ago or so. I am just waiting now for what I loss to come back in lol. I had to miss my recent appointment with my surgeon due to work, but I plan to try and make it for Thursday the 12th. Going to the gym has been slowed down too due to work schedule, but I am going to do my best to fit it in 'cause I definitely don't want to stop that completely. In the mean time I have been trying to make up for things by doing a lot of walking every chance I get. Thank God I have always loved walking lol, and now with being 105 pounds lighter, it's so much easier and less tiring. Well thats all for now. Again, I must say thank you to those who always show me love and support here, but above all, THANK YOU JESUS! God bless.
TODAY MAKES 6 MONTHS! 5/7/07
May 07, 2007
It's hard to believe that 6 months have already passed since my surgery. I still remember coming out of it thinking, my God can you please let the time speed up so I can get through this emotional mess lol. I am still losing at a slow pace with long stalls, but still losing none the less. I am now weighing 228 lbs. That is now a total weight loss so far of 87 pounds in 6 months. Sometimes I still wish it would pick up speed, but I am still grateful and thrilled for what has happened so far. I feel soooo much better in terms of energy, attitude, and health. My only major complaint at this point, which has been a problem now for past couple of months or so, is the hair loss. Like I said in a previous post, I have always suffered from thinning hair, so I think thats why I have lost a lot now. Yet as mentioned before also, it's not to the point where I have these very visible bold spots, thank God, but it is noticible to a degree, especially depending on how I have my hair done. Well anyways, that is suppose to stop with time, so I hang on to that expectation. So overall, I really can't complain. I am still looking for work, but I am trying to remain optimistic on that. Again, I feel great, clothes are starting to fit better in stores, I can walk better and climb stairs better without getting tired as quickly as before, the eliptical machine in gym, which I had considered my enemy because just getting 10 minutes done on it was a struggle, is now my friend since I can easily do 20 minutes now, I am feeling more better as time passes with having pictures taken of me, and people have started to notice and say good things lol! So I am counting my blessings and trying to stay focused on my walk with God because he has also gotten me through so much. Until next time, God bless.
5 MONTHS TODAY! 4/7/07
Apr 07, 2007
I finally went to see my surgeon for a follow-up this past Thursday. Everything went well. He said that I am losing weight well, in fact a little bit above normal even at the rate I'm losing, in spite of slow downs.
I asked about the problem I fealt I was expriencing in eating more than I should, and how I took advice from others in cutting out my small sips of water intake while eating, and how after doing so I start feeling fuller now, quicker. He said it could be a number of factors to cause this, but since I'm doing better with it now after cutting out water during meals, then I guess that's what I should continue to do since all seems fine now.
So everything else was okay. Incision healed very well. Hard to believe it's been 5 months already and how great I feel, considering how I fealt before and that it was like hell, lol. Until next time, God bless.
An update 3/29/07
Mar 29, 2007
I had recently posted a forum question because I was concerned about the fact that it seemed I was able to eat more than I should be before feeling full. I also added that I would take sips of water here and there as I ate. I thought this would be okay at this point, but most people advised that I still shouldn't be doing that at all. I should still wait 30-45 minutes after eating to drink anything, and same time before eating. Something about the water flushing out the food and allowing you to take in more food. I have since stopped doing this, and have noticed that I do feel fuller now after eating less, so maybe thats why I finally took off a few extra pounds in the past couple of days, lol. Here is a link to that forum post, in case you would like to see what others had to say: http://www.obesityhelp.com/forums/amos/a,messageboard/action,replies/board_id,4856/cat_id,4456/topic_id,3253014/
Constipation continues to be a problem here and there. I think the water intake is not cutting it anymore, I may need something prescribed or over the counter for this now. Nothing is fitting me right anymore in closet. Too big now. I desperately need a new wardrobe, but I can't find anything on the free clothing exchange here, not enough selection and sizes. I'm going to try a thrift store 'cause it doesn't make sense to spend alot if it may end up getting too big also. I NEED A JOB! LOL! If anyone in the New York City area knows of anything, drop me a line.
As far as my hair falling out problem, it continues in small clumps, but mostly when I wash it. I don't think it should be that much loss for most other weight loss surgery patients, it's probably 'cause I have always had a hair thinning problem. I don't have this major bald spot problem, but a couple of sections of my scalp is visible unless I comb it or style it a certain way. It sucks, but I am looking past it and looking ahead, grateful for the weight loss, and knowing that eventually the hair loss will stop.
I had previously mentioned using Murad for hair, which I know works from what I have seen in another person, but I think I'm gonna start using that again only when the hair loss stops, 'cause this seems inevitable right now.
I have been seriously slacking on the gym, but I know that will start up again when the weather gets nicer and I can walk it there, unless I find a job now, and can take the bus more often. Other than all I just mentioned, I am feeling great and thanking God for His love, strength, and Mercy. Until next time, God bless and take care.
A Few More Pounds 3/12/07
Mar 11, 2007
Got on the scale today and I am now at 240. Lost an extra 2 lbs. since my last post. Total weight loss is now 75 lbs. in 4 months and 5 days. Thank you Lord.
4 Months Today! 3/7/07
Mar 07, 2007
The Journey Continues...
Feb 21, 2007
February 21, 2007
BACK AGAIN! I have not posted in nearly a month since having trouble with this web site. Half of my info. was no longer showing when I would try to update. I have my info. saved elsewhere, but no matter how many times I copied and pasted, it would come out wrong. I gave up for awhile but decided to just re-do it. You can still view my previous entries by clicking the archive link for October, 2006. Well to update on my weight status, I have lost an additional 15 pounds since last time. It took nearly a month to lose 15 and I would have a week or little more of no loss at all, so it's been slow, but still losing. I feel it's better if it's slower, 'cause too fast can mess with my body like in the beginning of this when you lose very rapidly and it just takes the life out of you. So I am now 245, a total weight loss so far of 70lbs in just a little over 3 months, not bad if you ask me. I definitely feel the difference, energy wise, and some of my clothes that wouldn't fit anymore or too tight, fit just fine now : ) I still go to the gym, although I admit this past week I slacked off, but can't keep doing that. My primary care doctor appointments have been going fine. As far as blood tests for the hospital of my surgery, and next appointment with surgeon is concerned, those will be coming up soon, I will keep you posted. So as of yet no major problems, thank God, except for some occasional gas pains and upset stomach, but rarely. I also suffer from bad constipation sometimes, but I find that it's mostly when I start to slack on my water intake. I have also started experiencing hair loss. I was shocked when washing my hair recently and and seeing big amounts of strands just coming out. I knew this was to be expected especially if I don't have enough protien. I admit I have also slacked with the protein, but since the hair washing incident, I have been sticking to it. I also ordered a hair care product from Murad. It's a serum that is suppose to restore growth. A freind of mine who had the suregry got it and says her hair is really coming in a lot now, so I'll give it a shot and let you know. I already eat a lot of the foods that I use to, not all types obviously, but more kinds than I thought I could at this point. Sometimes I feel I can eat a little more than I feel I should be expecting to with this surgery. Sometimes I feel like maybe they did decrease my stomach size, but left it a little more bigger still than the norm for this surgery lol. Maybe thats why my weight loss is already slow at only 3 months, but I'm not complaining if I'm still losing. I will, however, ask my surgeon and nutritionist about this. Well that's it for now. For anyone who was wondering and sending me notes, I am sooo sorry, I will be getting back to you ASAP. God bless.Visit My Myspace Page
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My Journey
The following is what has happened so far, from before I Joined OH, (I post my medical related experiences and my personal story for those who are curious to know how the process may go, although not the same for all, and for those who may relate to my personal experiences):
June 8, 2006
Very first appointment at the North General Hospital Bariatric Clinic. I'm assuming that because of the ammount of people wanting this surgery and only one surgeon who performs it at North General, this is why appointment had been given to me a little over one month prior to this day. I'm usually a patient person, but I didn't think it would be that far off.
I will go back to June 8th, but first allow me to back track further for a moment:
I attempted to go for wls back in about 2002 at St. Lukes Hospital. At that time, the appointment was immediate and so was the process. Thinking back, I am glad I waited until now. They didn't check for as much, which boggles my mind because I would think back then they would check for even more. Well it didn't matter anyway for me 'cause I was unable to get pass the psychological evaluation part. I was sent to someone who used the information I gave her about my pre-teen and teen years on how I was feeling at that time to make her determination. Mind you, all I did was be honest on a questionaire about if I had ever felt depressed. I indicated yes, but only back then at a time when many at that age go through crazy emotions, especially if you are overweight. Her determination was that perhaps I would better benefit from counseling and possibly medication for my anxiety. Now that was crazy! I personally thought it was an exaggerated conclusion, especially since I made it clear to her that my main concern and reason for surgery was for my health to improve. Also, this determination was made after meeting me for first time and talking to me for no more than 5 minutes. However, I also took this as a sign. Perhaps it just wasn't my time for this surgery, for reasons other than what the psychologist concluded with. So I chickened out and did not pursue to fight her decision, neither did I take the steps she suggested while still in pursuit of surgery. I thought, this surgery really is a drastic move, so I should really allow myself to try again on my own.
Well many failed attempts later, I totally gave up and didn't start to re-think the surgery with seriousness again until a couple of months ago. I spoke to my doctor about it, and she supported my decision. Since I started seeing her 9 months ago she knew all too well of my struggle with my weight. She had continually given me advise along with several methods and diet changes I should try to implement. I listened almost every time and even managed to take off some weight, but all this shortlived. So I had her blessing along with a letter for surgery clearance and additional information which documented my weight loss and gains, the number of attempts, and methods used. The letter and information was for Columbia Presbyterian Hospital, an excellent institution with a great reputation in New York, or so they say. I decided to give them another call before faxing the info. to find out how long things would take more or less. Well much to my dismay, I was told there are people there waiting as long as 8 months. Guess it's a more popular place than I thought. Not to mention, they were asking for more than I initially had ready to submit to them. So I remembered my doctor mentioning North General because one of her office employees had the surgery there without too much red tape and decided to give them a call. They immediately gave me an appointment and thus began the journey...
Now back to June 8th, 2006
I arrived extra early at North General to register first, since this was my first time at this hospital, and went into a bit of a frenzy. Apparently I needed a referral for a visit to the bariatric clinic alone. Mind you, when I say bariatric clinic it's for lack of a better description. It is actually a regular clinic with several specialists, where they also find the room to focus on bariatric surgery. This is not to discredit them in anyway, because I know that with the popularity and need for this surgery now, many hospitals, not yet ready, have done what they can. However, it does explain, at least in part, how one may feel a bit unfocused on. I do think it's most important though, of course, and as many of you know, that you have a both caring and competent surgeon. So that was MY focus, and so I was relieved to know that my surgeon has a good reputation, however, I'm not done asking him questions.
Doctor Howard Beaton came off as very kind and concerned, but when he asked if I had any questions, I didn't ask anything major. I thought, what more do I need to know when I have been reading about, and hearing about this surgery for several years now. Also, I personally know people who have had it, as many of us do, and in seeing their success so far, I figured, you can't go wrong with this. Well as I crossed out more, done with, appointment dates on my calendar and was obviously getting closer to the last ones, I started getting more scared, which had me thinking, how much do I really know and don't know? Should I really be doing this? So I began more research and eventually was told about this site. It was a welcome surprise to see all the support and information. I also, however, came upon the memorial page of both wls hopefuls and those who had it. I forced myself to read almost everyone with sadness and also in hopes of finding that most of the deaths were either not directly related to the surgery or due to surgeons who should have been researched more. Such was not really the case. I say the reasons were about equal. However, I decided to keep in mind that I truly believe that as I get older, my weight will continue to escalate, and with my health issues, I just cannot take that chance either. So here I am still nervous as hell, but trying to stay focused and optimistic. You can also be sure that I will be praying and telling everyone I know who prays to do so for me.
My father is trying to be supportive, however, I know if it were up to him I wouldn't be proceeding with this. He is entitled to feel what he may about the surgery, but it still hurts to know that in a sense I don't really have his support. My brothers are also concerned, but it seems they have come to the conclusion that the best thing to do is just pray for me and hope for the best. We all love each other, and to an extent are close, but never been super close like some families. I wish I fealt a greater sense of support from them, especially since I don't have this great ammount of friends, and the ones closest to me see this as a great makeover transformation. They don't seem to fully understand the health related seriousness of it or the great emotional toll it may take on a person. I have found myself crying out of the confusion and from knowing that this is going to change my body in more ways than one. I didn't think I would react this way because I usually have a non-chalant way of looking at things, but it has hit me more and more of the seriousness of this and has forced me to examine it every which way. I am, however, now slowly making some peace with the fact that if it happens, I must face what I must face, especially since it means that there is a greater chance that I can look foward to a much healthier life.
Again, the appointment has arrived, and I met the surgeon. Very kind and patient man, unlike many doctors who give off a sense of arrogancy and make you feel like they need to rush things because your taking up too much of their time. He explained all the basic info., asked me some questions about my health and weight loss/gain history, and also showed me a pamphlet explaining the different procedures. He showed which procedure he determined was best for me, the open roux en-y, and how and where the incision would be made. He asked if I had questions, but me thinking I knew enough said no, but I have a list of questions for him now. I was then sent to see one of the nurses who sat me down to go over every specialist I needed to see and to give me evalution reports to be filled out by the doctors I would be seeing on my own outside of the hospital, since I had my own cardiologist and PCP. The doctors I would see in their hospital included a metabolic specialist, a pulmonary specialist, an endocrinoligist, a psychologist or psyshchiatrist for either a pshychiatric or pshychological evaluation, since my HMO had stated to me that either one was acceptable, and a GI doctor (gastroenterolgist). My calender was immedaitely filled up. Then I was sent to have blood drawn and was given a large container to take home which I needed to urinate in for 24 hours and bring back for further tests...
June 13, 2006
I went to see the metabolic specialist at North General. I thought maybe all kinds of questions and exams. It was just a few questions concering my diet histroy and eating habits. I shared that I have been heavy since about 11 years old, and although I can have many days of not eating much, I often ate either the wrong foods or too much of whatever I was eating. I tried many diets over the years which included, slim fast, herbal life, weight watcher meals, cutting out certain foods, excersizing, and much more. The results were always the same. Weight loss for a while, but then back to my old habits. A lot of this was my fault, but a lot of this was also due to growing up in a household where food was a major staple. This is the only life I have known, what I am accustomed to. That info. along with results of my blood and urine tests determined that I was a perfect candidate for the surgery and that my body also needed vitamin D, and so I was cleared for surgery...
June 14, 2006
I went see my PCP and since she had seen me very recently and we had gone over the whole wls thing before, she just asked a few more questions and wrote her evaluation in favor of the surgery and gave me all the referrals I needed.
I then went to see my cardiologist. Since he was a regular doctor of mine, I had already had an echocardiagram to check my heart, an EKG, and a stress test with him in the recent past. He only wanted to update my EKG so he had me go through another one. Results of everything were fine. He wrote his evalutation and so I was cleared for surgery...
June 15, 2006
I went to see the pulmonary specialist at North General. He checked me with the stethescope for my breathing and determined that lungs sound clear. He then arranged to have me go through a routine breathing/pulmonary test and a chest x-ray. It is important that they know everything is fine for going under anesthesia and to avoid any complications after surgery. I went for chest x-ray same day and was scheduled for breathing test for another day. I was also scheduled to revisit the pulmonary specialist for final determination after he had the test results...
June 20, 2006
Went back to North General for the breathing test. I was told how I was going to be expected to breathe into a tube which was attached to this large see through container with an inflation piece that went up and down as I breathed. The test consisted of breathing 3 different ways and 3 times each. I had to take in deep breaths, hold it, let it go and blow out as much as possible, and so on. I was told it went very well and sent on my way...
June 22, 2006
I went to go see a psychologist. This was the only appointment that had me worried as far as actually getting the appointment. The psychiatric clinic at North General told me that the closest thing available was for September. I thought, this doesn't seem right especially since I was only going there for one appointment and for the purpose of just getting an evaluation. Explaining this didn't seem to matter. I was told that the head nurse of bariatric care could get me in sooner, but she never called me back. I took it upon myself to search for someone who would take my HMO. I tried Columbia Presbyterian which required that my doctor fill out their own referral which they had told me they faxed, but was never received. Tried to get them to fax another, said they did, still nothing. Was also told that once they got their referral back it would be up to 4 weeks before I got the appointment. I tried calling other places and was told either the same or that I needed to be put on some type of waiting list, or that they simply did not take my plan. This is one of the headaches of having an HMO! Finally, and many phone calls later, I found a place that was specifically set up for reaching out to the community and they immediately gave me an appointment. I went to go see a psychologist. This was the only appointment that had me worried as far as actually getting the appointment. The psychiatric clinic at North General told me that the closest thing available was for September. I thought, this doesn't seem right especially since I was only going there for one appointment and for the purpose of just getting an evaluation. Explaining this didn't seem to matter. I was told that the head nurse of bariatric care could get me in sooner, but she never called me back. I took it upon myself to search for someone who would take my HMO. I tried Columbia Presbyterian which required that my doctor fill out their own referral which they had told me they faxed, but was never received. Tried to get them to fax another, said they did, still nothing. Was also told that once they got their referral back it would be up to 4 weeks before I got the appointment. I tried calling other places and was told either the same or that I needed to be put on some type of waiting list, or that they simply did not take my plan. This is one of the headaches of having an HMO! Finally, and many phone calls later, I found a place that was specifically set up for reaching out to the community and they immediately gave me an appointment.
So I sat down with the psychologist and she asked me to start. I told her of my intentions of having the surgery and why I fealt I needed to do it. She asked me several questions about myself, my family, and social circle. She wanted to know how others in my life played a part in my life, their situations and how any of it related to me, and how they also fealt about my surgery. I shared how I, for the most part, knew what I was getting into and how I didn't feel that I need it so much for physical changes, as much as I did for my health. After about 15-20 minutes of talking, she concluded that it would be okay for me to proceed, and so I was cleared for surgery...
June 23, 2006
I went to see the endocrinoligist at North General. It bascially consisted of him going over the information that the metabolic specialist had, asking more of the same questions Iv'e been answering for days now, and giving me the prescription I need for Vitamin D. He also found my cholesterol too high and prsecribed medication for that. He told me to see him again in about a month or so, but that in the mean time, the surgery would be okay, and so he cleared me for the surgery...
June 28 2006
I went to see the GI doctor at North General. He asked me the usual questions and if I fealt any pain to which I said no. He had me lay down so he could press down on my stomach, but no pain. He fealt there was nothing serious, but of course I would still need to have an endoscopy done, which of course makes sense since the surgery involves the stomach and GI tract. I sat down in another room to get my appointment for this. Instructions were to not eat anything after midnight on night before. Since I need approval for this, I was not given appointment, but told I would be called with one once they got approval for the procedure. They said it would take about 2-3 weeks, so I just have to wait now...
June 29, 2006
Back at North General for my final pre-op visit to the pulmonary specialist. He determined from the chest x-ray and breathing test that every thing was A-OK and so I was cleared for surgery...
July 9, 2006
So here I am now finishing up this typing and doing only thing I can now, which is to wait. The endoscopy is the last thing I need to do, as far as I know at this point. I'm almost certain that it's going to be followed by one more follow-up appointment to go over results, and if all goes well, and God willing, they can proceed with trying to get approval.
I will leave it here until my next appointment and continue to keep you posted as things happen.
July 26, 2006...
At this point I had been still waiting for an appointment for my endoscopy and starting to get very impatient and frustrated. What was suppose to be 2-3 weeks now has become 4. I had contacted my HMO to see why if it only is suppose to take 3 days for them to make decisions on procedures, why has it been this long. My thinking was that the problem was with them. They explained that it is done how it is suppose to and the delay is most likely with the hospital.
I call the hospital and they give me such a run around, kept transfering me back and forth to same people. Finally I was told after 2nd day of calling that there is a big back up of patients waiting for endoscopy. They were even having to send patients over to another hospital. I explained that I had been waiting a month as it is, so lady I spoke to said that I should speak to a particular person there and they would pass my message on to her.
Well I finally spoke to her only after finding out her extension and calling her myself. She told me same thing about back up of patients but that they had me on the list and they would get to me as soon as possible. I then asked if I could have some idea as to how long because I was doing this for bariatric surgery and it was my last step. Then she says, oh I'm glad you told me that because we are sending patients who are waiting for wls to get a GI Series instead. A GI Series consists of taking xrays of stomach instead and it would tell them what they need to know, such as, any present ulcers, lesions, blockage, etc. So I'm like, well okay then, but in my mind thinking well why the hell couldnt they tell me this sooner and had me waiting and wasting a month. Well whatever, sometimes things happen as they do for a reason right? but at same time I can't help thinking, this wasn't right.
So then she tells me I need to come in one week to get the GI Series scheduled. So I'm like, it can't be done over phone? so she tells me that it's the way they do it in GI clinic and since GI clinic only operates on Wednesdays, thats when I had to come in. Mind you I'm speaking to her on a Wednesday at this point close to 4 pm when they stop seeing people. So I had to resign to waiting another week just for the appointment.
I hang up, a few minutes pass, and she calls me back. She tells me that she realizes I have been waitng long enough and she had my papers there so she was going to have the nurse in GI call me to give me the appointment over phone. So I thanked her a few times and hung up. End of day has come, never got called, but I figure they will call next day and I'm not gonna worry so much now 'cause at least now things have started moving along again.
July 27, 2006...
At 9am I receive the phone call from North General to give me my appointment for the GI Series. I was asked what day I preffered, so of course I said next day if possible. Since they still needed approval for this procedure, I was told that I should do it for at least 5 business days later, by then it should be set. So I have been scheduled for the GI Series for Friday, August 4th. Just like an endoscopy, can't eat anything after midnight on night before. So now I can rest just a tiny bit easy, only a tiny bit since I have yet to be scheduled for the BIG appointment.....
August 4, 2006...
Went to get my GI Series this morning. They had me lay down and took an xray of my stomach. Then I had to stand up against table which was brought up to standing position. They had me drink a barium, yummy. Its some white stuff they mix with water, creates this milk of magnesia type of consistency. I had to take several gulps of it as they took xray shots after each one. Then the table goes back on me and has me laid down again. I then had to turn my self 360 degrees, twice, so that the barium could coat my stomach. Then they just had me postioning myself different ways as they took xrays and had me drinking more barium during it all.
Couple of hours after I get home they call me to tell me that some of the xrays were not very clear, so the doctor wants me to come back monday morning for more. Gee whiz it never ends! This is like the final thing I needed to do before having my stuff submitted for an approval and its the one thing that is taking so long. Oh well, what are you gonna do. I have waited this long, I can wait a little longer. So I guess I'll end this here until my next update...
August 7, 2006...
I went back to hospital for those xtra xrays they needed for the GI Series. I had been told that they needed clearer shots. When I got there, doc told me that he thought he had seen something , but apparently it was something he called a fake out, at least I think that was the term he used. He said its the result of a technical error. New xrays revealed to him that all was fine with the exception of a mild case of acid reflux, but nothing to worry much about. I still have to see the GI doctor at the clinic so he can go over the results and make final determination. I was told closest appointment now was for September 13. It doesn't make sense that I should have to wait that long just for results, especially when they had me waiting a month for the endoscopy just to tell me that I could have the GI Series instead since there was a backup of patients waiting for that. I decided to walk into the clinic before going home to ask if they would accept a walk-in this wednesday morning 'cause I only needed results. I was told I could, so that's what I am going to attempt to do and hope I wont have a problem with them seeing me. Thats all for now. I will post again on Wednesday.
August 9, 2006...
I went to the GI clinic this morning, got there at close to 8:30 am, was 2nd patient to be seen. I guess I was lucky considering I did not have appointment, but it was only for results. The GI doctor told me that with the exception of a very mild case of acid reflux, my stomach was fine. Only thing that kept her from clearing me for the surgery was the fact that I hadn't gone for a blood test they needed to check for bacteria in my stomach. She said that until they know this, I cannot proceed. So they had me go get blood drawn before going home. Now I have to wait until either Friday or Monday to know what the results are. If the results are negative then I will need to do no more and can then have them submit my paper work to my HMO. If it comes out positive, then I have to return to the hospital to get a prescription for the medication that will clear up the bacteria. The medication needs to be given at least 2 weeks to work, which of course means my process gets delayed again, AY YAI YAI! Well I will just have to wait and see now. Until next time....
August 14, 2006...
I called this afternoon for my blood test results. My GI doctor checked the computer and found that the results are negative. I breathed a sigh of relief since this means that I do not need to wait an additional 2 weeks for medication to clear up anything. I then needed to call the bariatric coordinator so that she can make sure my record had everything it needed before sending my info. to my HMO. Well guess what, I didn't reach her, instead a voicemail message with her saying that she is on vacation and would not be back until the 21rst. My destiny seems to dictate that I must continue to endure waiting periods with every step I take, lol. I tried having someone else take care of it for me, but apparently she is the only person who takes care of this there. So I will return with my next update as soon as I can get a hold of her....
August 29, 2006...
Finally got a hold of the coordinator, actually a week ago from this date. I told her I had done everything and she said she would look into my record and get back to me next day. I waited a week and still no call so I called back today. I was told that the only problem she saw was the 6 month progress report from my doctor on my weight loss attempts. She explained that she would prefer to send in a report that documented at least a year. I couldn't believe what I was hearing, dear Lord, is this not meant to be? She said in a nut shell that my HMO can be stubborn about this and she has had many denials on her desk from other patients with Community Premier Plus. According to her, they use to only require that at least a six month progress report be sent, but they have recently become more strict on that and now require at least a year. So I went and saw my doctor today since the office is near by and she would be in and they agreed to take me without appointment. She was kind enough to write out some more info. for me. Unfortunately I have only seen her now twice since my last weight related visit, so she could only document those 2 visits making it a total now of 8. I called the coordinator again and explained this, so she said she would use it and send that in with all my other medical info., so I immediately faxed it over to her. Now I just gotta keep wating and hope for the best. Feeling very bummed out today : (
August 30, 2006...
I called again this afternoon to see if my fax was received and it was. I asked if my info. would now be sent out and the response I got was that it would not be handled today 'cause she is very busy, neither tomorrow because she would also be busy, but that perhaps Friday : (
September 5, 2006...
It is the tuesday right after labor day and I decided to call and check to see if my info. had been sent in. My Labor day weekend was great becuase I got to go upstate to Rochester to visit my brother and his family. They had their first baby, my first nephew, so I was anxious to see him. The baby is soooo beautiful. Well I am back now and had no luck with this phone call since I continually got her voicemail. I decided to just leave a message, thinking in my mind, "why am I bothering, it's not like she is actually gonna return my call." : (
September 8, 2006...
I decided to try calling one more time before deciding that I should try going over the bariatric coordinators head, maybe something I should have done already. Maybe I am too nice, but I have tried giving her benefit of any doubt by assuming that maybe she is very busy and needs to be given time. Well I call again, becuase of course my last call where I had to leave message had never been returned, and I get voicemail so I hang up. Mind you, I have never once been called by this person, I usually wait a whole week before making another call to her, and during this whole process, 4 months now, I have only seen her in person once. She is the bariatric coordinator so she was the person who I was suppose to deal with that first appointment day when I met with the surgeon. Well I barely saw her or spoke to her, the nurse who works in the clinic I was seeing surgeon in was the one who took care of telling me everything I needed to do after I spoke to surgeon. Well anyways, after trying several times today, I finally got a hold of her on phone. She was obviously in the middle of a conversation when I called and was still laughing with someone when she answered the phone, but when I told her it was me, that joyful tone immediately turned into a huge sigh as if this call was a burden. She said, okay let me see where your record is, and immediately then said, "I made the call yesterday so we should know something by Wednesday (of next week of course). So I was like, okay thank you, and that was that. Wow, anyone one else would have called to let me know, but of course, if I don't call I won't know what's going on. Well I of course am not counting on her to let me know what was decided so I am going to see if my HMO will tell me on Thursday what the status is when I try calling them. To anyone who might be reading this, and is a believer, keep me in your prayers. I just want to know already so I won't stress this so much, just want to get things overwith, but I know I must be patient and follow God's will. : (
September 24, 2006...
Well here it is several weeks later and still nothing. I really thought and believed at the beginning of this that I would be having surgery before I had to hit my 33rd birthday. Well, it's my birthday today and believe it or not I am still waiting on an answer. I have called a few more times after my September 8th post and have been given the run around. I did try speaking with someone at my HMO, but they tell me that they wouldn't be able to tell me if I was approved or not because they only deal with the person who sends it in. What do they think is going to happen if they give a patient an answer? Other HMO's tell their patients, even send them a letter, mine never does that. I was eventually able to get the number from someone at my HMO to the office of the department that handles such cases. I called and said, listen, I know that even though I am the patient you are not going to tell me whether I was approved or not, but can you at least tell me if my record was received. So the lady asks for my I. D. number, the name of my bariatric coordinator, and checks the system. She then tells me that there is nothing in the system yet. So I'm like what the hell is going on. I'm making this call on September 19, the coordinator at North General Hospital had told me she took care of it on the 7th, and it only takes them 3 days to make a decision, yet they tell me they don't even have anything on their system? At this point I am really pissed off. I don't even know who I should really blame here. Could it really be that the bariatric coordinator really does not care and/or is just simply unprofessional? I don't get it. This really shouldn't be happening. I should have gotten an answer a long time ago and what kills me is the fact that the coordinator never calls me for anything. Not one call from her ever during this, now 4 month process, even when I have left messages. Like I said previously, if I don't call, I don't talk to anyone. Well I decided to call the surgeon who I haven't spoken to since that first day on June 8th when I met him. I called him on the 19th when the HMO told me what they discovered. I was able to get a hold of him and I explained how I had been waiting and how the coordinator said she sent things in on the 7th, but still no answer and the HMO tells me that they have nothing on their system. Well he explains how sometimes papers get mixed up and things get mistakenly delayed, he says its not unusual for that to happen. He asked for number where I could be reached and said he would look into it. So that's the story I get now, that was last Tuesday, today is Sunday, lets see what happens tomorrow, if anything. In the mean time, here I am having a not so happy birthday, but I'm trying...
September 25, 2006...
I called the coordinator again at North General because I still had not heard anything since that call I made to the surgeon on the 19th. I was able to reach the coordinator and asked her what was going on at this point. She questioned whether I had spoken to someone which obviously meant that the surgeon had a talk with her after my call to him. I told her yes I did, I spoke to Dr. Beaton because I wanted him to look into what was going on since the HMO tells me they have nothing on their system. So she tells me that she indeed spoke to someone there and she mentioned the name of person she dealt with, and that she doesn't understand whats going on but would call her again. So that was that, I hung up and now continue to wait....
September 26, 2006...
I decided to try the case management department again at my HMO to see if there was anything there yet since the coordinator said she was gonna call again day before. They tell me they still have nothing. So then I ask if I can speak to the lady that I remembered my coordinator mentioning. They tell me I cannot speak to her because she can only deal with the coordinators. I practically begged for them to please at least let me just ask her if she indeed spoke with my coordinator and has my file. Lady on phone tells me she will check for me and puts me on hold. She comes back and says that she spoke to her and was told that she never spoke to anyone by the name of my coordinator or anyone at North General for that matter and that she does not have anything in her files with my name. So I hang up and start to cry. Is someone messing with me? After awhile of frustration I get a call from my best friend and he immediately knows somethng is wrong. Upset and at tears over the phone he curses the coordinator out with me. I tell him, I really don't want to call the coordinator anymore, I really don't want to have to hear her voice anymore and get another empty promise. I ultimately decide to give her another call. She answers and I explain what was told to me at HMO. She says that she indeed spoke to the lady at HMO yesterday and that she was in the process now of RE-FAXING my papers and indicated on them that it was a refax. So I said, so this means I should definitely know now in about 3 days (time they take for decision), and she says yes. I then say, and you are going to call me right? I don't have to call you again? she says, yes I will be calling you. So the wait continues...
September 29, 2006...
So I call the HMO again to see if they actually got my papers now. After re-explaning things for the umpteenth time and saying that I basically want to know where things stand now, I was told that my name was still not on there system. Mind you, I am making this call 3 days after my papers had been, according to coordinator, re-faxed. So I'm like, can you please tell me whats going on and allow me to speak to the lady it was faxed to because I really need to get to the bottom of things and if I am going to complain to someone now I do not want to put blame on the wrong people. I am then told that I can speak to her but she is at lunch and I can leave a message or call back. So I decide to leave her a voicemail. An hour or so later I call back, since I had not heard back. I was told by lady who answered that she was now in a meeting but also told to hold "cause she would check on things. Comes back and tells me that my papers have indeed been faxed and are in her files now. She says that I can call back on Wednesday and she will give me an update on things. So now I continue to wait, but at least this time things have FINALLY started to move again. I will hope and pray for the best and keep you posted...
October 2, 2006...
I went to my first gastric bypass surgery support group today at North General. They are held once a month. I thought more people would show, but, excluding the organizer, there was 5 of us. I was the only one there who still had not had the surgery. I had the opportunity of asking about their experiences. They all had some both different and similar ways of dealing with post op life, some had the surgery a year or a little less than a year ago, some several years ago, but what they all shared in great common is that none regretted the surgery, and thankfully, none have had complications. This put me at ease since we all share the same surgeon. I'm not thinking now that nothing can go wrong, because excellent surgeon or not, I know there are still risks even beyond any surgeons control, but it helps to have it confirmed that the surgeon I have knows what he is doing. Surprisingly, the coordinator was there. I reminded her of who I am and how I am the one who has been calling her, lol. It was different in person, you sometimes get a better feel for people, especially when they are not in, what can be, a stressful work setting. I am not saying it is excusable that I had to wait this long, but I am trying to look past that as I try to put things in Gods hands, and with things moving along again, I don't want to invite any negativity. I took the opportunity to listen to her, ask questions, and allow it to be a positive evening. The hour went by quick, I had more questions, but for now I have learned more. The women are strong and beautiful individuals who obviously have overcome much. I am grateful to them for being there and sharing. Before leaving, the coordinator said she would call me to update me on things. To be honest, I'm not sure that she will (lol) but I am still glad that she was there to show support...
October 4, 2006...
I actually got a call this morning from the bariatric coordinator (lol). It was early and I was still asleep, but she left a message. She said that she spoke with the woman at my HMO who is handeling my case and was told that my papers are currently being reviewed. So I should have an answer in a couple of days. I am guessing and hoping by Friday, at least, but possibly Monday. I gave her a call back just to thank her for calling me. So now the wait continues. Please keep me in prayer...
October 6, 2006...
I called the HMO just to check on things, especially since I was told I could do so. I can be patient sometimes if I have to, but my calling is mostly due to not wanting to take any chances in finding out much later, rather than sooner, that something else was needed, overlooked, or simply not taken care of. I asked for the status on things and was transfered to the lady handleing my case. I got her voicemail and left her a message. Later on I get a call from her. I was speaking to her for first time, never thought I would actually get a chance. She was very kind and appologized for the phone tag ordeal, but assured me she has been handleing things, but was delayed due to needing to be out of work for personal reasons. She said that she reviewed all my papers and my file was sent out to a medical director. It is actually the director with his/her team of physicians who determine whether I should be approved for the surgery or not. She tells me that it will be within 5 to 10 days before she hears anything from them. What happend to a decision in 3 days? Well whatever, it has come this far, let me just leave it alone and leave it in God's hands. She said I can call her in a week on Friday and she would tell me if she has heard anything. I am nervous about the decision, but have also tried to prepare myself mentally and have my plan of action in mind in case I get denied. I am trying to hold onto faith in this, but I also need to be prepared to whatever God may want. Unless I know for sure that he would not want me to do it for whatever reason, then I won't even fight it, but until then, perhaps it is just a test of my faith. I am hoping my next update will be regarding a decision. The wait continues... I called the HMO just to check on things, especially since I was told I could do so. I can be patient sometimes if I have to, but my calling is mostly due to not wanting to take any chances in finding out much later, rather than sooner, that something else was needed, overlooked, or simply not taken care of. I asked for the status on things and was transfered to the lady handleing my case. I got her voicemail and left her a message. Later on I get a call from her. I was speaking to her for first time, never thought I would actually get a chance. She was very kind and appologized for the phone tag ordeal, but assured me she has been handleing things, but was delayed due to needing to be out of work for personal reasons. She said that she reviewed all my papers and my file was sent out to a medical director. It is actually the director with his/her team of physicians who determine whether I should be approved for the surgery or not. She tells me that it will be within 5 to 10 days before she hears anything from them. What happend to a decision in 3 days? Well whatever, it has come this far, let me just leave it alone and leave it in God's hands. She said I can call her in a week on Friday and she would tell me if she has heard anything. I am nervous about the decision, but have also tried to prepare myself mentally and have my plan of action in mind in case I get denied. I am trying to hold onto faith in this, but I also need to be prepared to whatever God may want. Unless I know for sure that he would not want me to do it for whatever reason, then I won't even fight it, but until then, perhaps it is just a test of my faith. I am hoping my next update will be regarding a decision. The wait continues...October 13, 2006...
Called HMO today, but still nothing. Was told that the medical director has an overload of cases lately so it is taking longer than usual. I will try calling again next week...
October 20, 2006...
Called HMO again, day before this actually, and was told that my case was showing up as void on computer system. Asked, "what does this mean?" was told not sure, but it is neither approved nor denied. Ummm ok. Well I was transferred to a supervisor where I was to leave a message to be called back to see why it was showing as void. Did so, but never got a call back. So I called again next day, which is today and was told that the case is still with the medical director, but as of now, information has been requested by the medical director from the doctor. So I ask if she knows what info. they are requesting and am told that it does not say and that would be known between the director and the doctor. I asked which doctor is being dealt with, primary care? surgeon? and was told whoever it is requesting the surgery. I am assuming that it is my surgeon so I left him a message letting him know whats going on and to please send them anything they may be requesting, as soon as possible, as I have been waiting on them (HMO) long enough. So that is what is going on at this point. I don't feel like calling them until after at least a week 'cause I am tired of putting myself through hearing them say nothing yet so I'm gonna give them some time and hopefully things will have moved along by Friday. In the mean time, I called to have a date scheduled for surgery, just in case, 'cause I don't know how far along these dates are given, so I figure I should get on it now while I'm still waiting. I ws given a pre-testing date of November 7th, which I imagine consists of blood work, speaking with anesthesiologist, etc. No actual surgery date given yet, but I guess I will get that after the pre-testing is complete. Until next time....
October 25, 2006...
WELL HERE IT GOES GUYS :
Not only approved, but a surgery date as well. I received the call today from the coordinator at the hospital. Turns out that pre-testing date that was given to me has now become my surgery date and my pre-surgery testing will now be on Monday, October 30th. So my surgery date is for Tuesday, November 7th. Thanks to all who have been there through support, prayer, humor, etc. Geez I feel like I'm giving a thank you speech for an award, lol. Seriously though, this site, and the people here, have been great. Please keep me in prayer, as I am super nervous now that I have a date and know that it will intensify as it gets closer. God bless you all.
October 30, 2006...
I went for my pre-surgery tests today. As they registered me for the surgery, I became nervous. It was official as far as the hospital having me in for November 7. When I saw the nurses, they went over some of my medical history and informed me of the instructions I needed to know for day of surgery, such as, which of my medications I could and could not take, no eating after midnight, etc. They took my blood pressure, drew blood, and had me meet with the anesthesiologist who basically just went over some of my medical history as well. They also informed me that I must be at the hospital by 6:30 AM Yikes! The surgery time is scheduled for 7:30 AM. The whole thing didn't take more than like 20 minutes. So thats it for now. Unless there is a change of events, my next post will be on the day of my surgery, before I leave in the morning.
November 6, 2006
Well it's almost midnight as I type this at wich time, no more eating or drinking. I was thinking I would post again on morning of surgery, but I am going to try to get at least a few hours sleep, and by morning, since the surgery is so early, I don't think I'm gonna have time to post. So this will be it until I am out of the Hospital and well enough to feel up to being on my computer again. Love you all. God bless and thank you.
December 1, 2006
II am back at posting! I realize it has been awhile, and for that, I appologize. It was rough after my surgery and I hadn't had it in me to write anything until now. At first it was of course due to not feeling physically well enough to even be at my PC. Afterwards, however, it became more about just feeling depressed and wanting to talk and think about the surgery as little as possible. I went through that, I regret this phase, and depression kicked in pretty hard. I didn't want to even visit this web site too much 'cause it was a reminder of what I did. It got to the point where all I could do at times was cry and seriously wish that my life would just end. I know this sounds extreme, but I feel this was due in part to my not fully preparing myself for this emotionally beforehand. It's true what they say about the importance of seeking a psychological evaluation. My mistake, perhaps, was not letting it go at least a little bit further than an evaluation and allowing myself to see someone for at least a few more sessions. I seriously did not want to live. Had it not been for God, through lots of prayer, and friends, I would have lost it. It took awhile, but I finally got to a place where I feel much more stronger, both physically, and mentally. Although I always knew it, I really came to fully realize how much of a relationship I had with food and how it really is, in a sense, an addiction. However, with each passing day I get use to the new way of eating. I still have my days, but it's much better now.
I had to wait 3 weeks instead of 2 for my staples to be removed because of the Thanksgiving holiday. They are finally out, so I am thrilled about that, especially since I was finally able to start sleeping on my stomach again. I still worry about whether I am eating enough at times, or not eating right, but I have always been paranoid like that. When I got my staples out, yesterday, surgeon said I looked good and seemed to be doing fine. I saw my cardiologist day before, and only concern right now is that my heart rate was too fast so he is worried about that. I had gone off my hypertension meds, but he now put me back on the main one I would take, Coreg 25mg 2x daily for now to see if that slows my heart rate. I use to take that along with 2 other hypertension meds. He said my heart valves were good and my blood pressure remains at normal level, its just the heart rate thats strange to him. He says perhaps it's withdrawal from certain meds. He also had me get blood drawn to check for several things. I will see him again in a week.
I am also off of my diabetes meds, as my blood sugar level remains at an acceptable level now without them. So for now I take a therapeutic vitamin, a calcium pill, and my coreg daily. I also take Unjury as my protein shake, it is very tolerable to me. I did also take lipitor for cholesterol, but haven't lately. I have an endocrine appointment in several weeks to see how my blood is, so I guess that will show what I may still need or not need.
I am at a place now where I feel maybe I can do this without falling apart afterall. I have lost 40 lbs so far as of me writing this, so I am happy about that. It does get better, but it certainly isn't easy. Again, for all who have prayed and expressed their concern, love, and support, thank you so much and God bless you all.
December 7, 2006
Today makes exactly one month since my surgery, and I gotta say that inspite of how lousy I fealt at first, I feel great today. God is Good! I went back to my cardiologist yesterday and all went well. Myheart rate was at a normal level, so apparently I will need to stay on Coreg, but still a big difference from when I had to take several meds for my hypertension. Cardiologist says that I don't have to see him for like a year. Also very happy that I am finally off of the puree stuff, Thank God. I had some soup other day with boiled chicken, or in other words, chicken soup Spanish style lol. It was yummy! I am down 45 lbs so far. I am feeling much stronger and getting a little more energetic. Can't believe it's been a month already. Until next time. . . .
December 28, 2006
I had my 2nd follow-up with my surgeon today. From his observation of me, checking my incision area, and from what I told him, he said that I was doing very well. I have not lost any weight in about 2 weeks, still only 45 down, but he said this is normal with my body still adjusting. I have been going to ballys gym now for the past 3 days. I mentioned this to him and he said excersize is what he was actually going to bring up to me. I said I was just doing about 10 on the bike to warm up and 30 minutes on treadmill for now. He said that was fine and I could continue along with more as long as there was no pain or discomfort. So now it's a matter of me needing to see him only every 3 months now. I thank God for his mercy and strength. As far as eating. Still eating chicken, but doesn't have to be in soup anymore, just tender. Also have eaten bread, but only toasted, as it needs to be crispy according to my dieticians plan. Also, crackers, shrimp, had some mushy corn bread stuffing once. My only problem for awhile was constipation, but plenty of water helps that. Oh, and I also still can't tolerate too much dairy, namely milk. I have yet to throw up anything, but it makes me feel nauseated, so I have switched back to 2% lactaid brand milk (lactose free milk). Never been much of a milk drinker, so I use this only for my protein shakes. As of today, it is 7 weeks since my surgery. Again, I thank God for everything.
December 29, 2006
Today I went for my second post-op appointment with the endocrinologist. I had previously gone to have blood drawn, so today was the results. Everything came out good with exception of low magnesium level. Magnesium plays a critical role in the body. It is essential for normal functioning of nerves, muscles, and cells. So they gave me a prescription for magnesium oxide. Other than that all was fine. I now just have to see them every 3 months for follow-ups on blood work. Thank you Jesus!
January 7, 2007
Hope everyone had a happy a blessed new year. Today makes exactly 2 months since my surgery. I had not lost any weight in like 2 weeks, but doctor said it's normal as my body is still adjusting. I joined a gym recently and have been going 3-4 days a week for past 2 weeks so far. Well I am happy to report now that I have lost an additional 5 pounds. As reported earlier, as far as excersizing. Doctor says it's ok and I can use more of the gym machines as long as I don't feel uncomfortable, or any pain doing anything. So far my routine continues to be 20 min. on bike and 30 on treadmill. So anyways, I am officially down 50 lbs. so far. Thank you Jesus!
January 25, 2007
Just to update, I am still doing good. I have not been able to visit the gym in like a week 'cause I have been sick with a bad cold, but feeling much better today and expect to return to the gym ASAP! lol! The weight loss has been slow at this point, but I have lost another 5 lbs. so thats a 55 lb. loss so far. I am now 260, my starting weight was 315. It would be great if it could speed up again, but I am grateful for anything, as long as it continues. I will keep you posted as things happen. My next surgeon appointment is not until March, but I have another blood test result check with endocrine coming up in February. Until next time, God bless.
