PeggyH
I'm an encourager! So let me know if I can encourage!
Just wanted to add a few thoughts...
My Angel Leigh Ann is great! I'm glad I have her.
Still waiting to hear from insurance. I call every week to ask how it's going. So maybe next week I will hear. Getting anxious and want to get on with it. After reading all the wonderful stories I just want to do some of the exciting things you all are doing --like tie my shoes!
Three weeks after preapproval sent I got a denial letter. I called each week, was polite each time. Keep records of your dieting experiences. Denied because "there is no documentation of the following required criteria: Medical clearance for surgery. Lack documented history and documentation submitted as evidence of active participation and reasonable compliance with at least 2 professionally supervised weight loss programs for a minimum 26 weeks in each program, completed within the preceding 12 months. Interesting note: If you or your physician believe waiting this time period would jeopardize your health or if severe pain management is needed, you may ask for a faster response.(for appeal 30 days) Very disappointed but will fight this even if it means getting an attorney!
May 12, 2003
Spoke to my PCP and she will write another letter to Cigna. However, got an e-mail from Dr. Vaughn's office stating he sent the medical necessity letter all I need is medical clearance and 2 professionally supervised weight loss programs for a minimum 26 weeks in each program, completed within the preceding 12 months. Programs should include weigh-ins. I am going to try to get rid of this. I have done a full life history of dieting. Quite frankly I believe it is ridiculous that they would ask for that. Obviously we have been unsuccessful -- so now we get to document more failures.
May 19, 2003
Called Cigna today to find out exactly what a medical clearance was. I know what it is but it was a good excuse to call and talk to someone. Talked to a very helpful person who is part of Intracorp I guess they are the ones who look at the preapproval stuff. She said "her boss" is the one who reviewed my file. She said my doctor can have a peer to peer conversation. So I am calling my doctor to do that. Then someone told me to find out what type of funding my insurance has. You can ask specifically if it is ASO or CMP. If it is an ASO account the claim is denied, you can go to your employer and request approval for this and Cigna has to honor it. Most PPO accounts are ASO funded. So this is a key for some of us. Now I'm not giving up on this. I am pressing in for the fight. I have gathered my checks from weight watchers and made a diet history of all my diets from age 16 (I'm 56)! I will keep you updated.
May 21, 2003
Spoke to the physician's assistant today...my doctor has written a letter to the insurance company and to Dr. Vaughn. Both were faxed. When I got word they had been I sent my diet history to Dr. Vaughn's office. Now we wait again.
June 16, 2003
Big mess. I shouldn't have had my doctor send in the new report. So I stopped my PCP. Now I am waiting for my pulmonology consult. Already did cardiac and I am clear on that. Also called an attorney to get things started and needed a complete copy of my insurance benefits. Called Cigna PPO and was told to call my employer. Called employer and spoke to a wonderful woman who helped me out greatly. She said to send everything into the insurance company even if I didn't have two months of dieting. If they turn me down again, I am to send everything to my employer for their review. They have the power to override the decision because they are self insured. I am encouraged.
Have a very indepth diet history in the works which anyone can borrow if they'd like. Of course you probably should wait until I get approval so you know it works!
Got a lot of information from the Q&A part of this board.
June 27, 2003
Have now completed all my evaluations for surgical clearance, pulmonology, cardiology, all I need is a chest x-ray and I can just go to the hospital for that. Keeping up with Weight Watchers and also stop in at my doctor's office routinely to just get weighed and give a verbal report to the nurse and ask her to note it in the chart. I figure that way it is recorded if I need it. Good idea to document everything I believe. So next week I believe we will be ready to file appeal with Cigna. Per FPL I will send in everything I've got including my story about obesity. I have to say I am not as down as I was but I can't dwell on it too long. It is very discouraging to continue to focus on what you can't do. Some day insurance must understand what we go thru and how we really hate it.
August 4, 2003
Denied again by Cigna. Same reason 26 week dieting.
August 15, 2003
So I called Kerry At Jupiter Medical Center in Florida and we talked about all this. She advised that Dr. Vaughan now is doing consults because the Cigna insurance mess. I am calling on August 18 to get an appointment with Dr. Vaughan. This way I will know what can be done and will know how my body is holding out through all this. Last week at WW meeting I gained 4 lbs. That is such a horrible feeling -- when you know you are dieting and to have the scale tell you "you re a glutton and have gained more weight". And again at WW meeting I had to move the scale back from the table -- I have done this for every meeting except the one where the lecturer saw me do it and spoke to the weighers to remind them to move the scales back from the tables. I had asked the lecturer to do this for the "larger" clients and she said of course we'll do that. Right! I've done it for myself every meeting. The scales are very heavy too and someone even suggested, maybe you are messing them up when you move it. Could be. Scale at doctor's said I held. So I will hold on to that thought. My doctor cannot believe that I have been denied again. The insurance company CIGNA is taking the place of my doctor. They are dictating my health. They are slowly allowing me to die by not approving this surgery. I have told my husband to find the best attorneys and sue them if I die of a heart attack or have a stroke. Several people I know who have companies were looking into getting CIGNA insurance and I have told them do not risk your lives, your children's lives or your employees lives on CIGNA. They can and do change the rules at their whim. So That's how I feel about CIGNA. Too bad such a great company as FPL has them!
So what's the plan? I will file one more second level appeal, and from there I will call FPL for a review and then if that does not work, I will contact an attorney. I also will gladly be part of a class action lawsuit against CIGNA. They are discriminating against O, MO, and SO people. They have lowered us to the pits, where we have to beg. That is sad..
Good thought! I am now an official member of the obesityhelp.com volunteers! Very exciting. So we'll see how that goes.
Hanging in and holding on. If I didn't have Jesus, I don't know what I would do at this point. But I do and He is my strength.
Psalm 35 and Psalm 70 -- those are the things I read from the Bible regarding my fight with CIGNA!
Will update again soon!
July 7, 2003
Sent diet history and Weight Watcher information to Dr. Vaughn's office for resubmission to Cigna PPO along with my story as per Florida Power & Light's advice. I believe it will be resubmitted to Cigna today. Still very hopeful.
July 15, 2003
Dr. Vaughn's office is looking over everything to submit the appeal! Okay, here we go again. Reading Psalm 35 each day.
Went to Dr. Leonard's office to be weighed today as followup for my Weight Watcher diet. The scale showed 7 lbs down in two weeks. I was so excited. They have a great computer scale. So nurse noted in my chart, weight, what I was doing, etc. Went to Weight Watcher meeting all excited about my weight loss got on their computer scale and guess what? I was exactly the same as I was two weeks ago on their scale. I thought "you are a real loser". I started bombarding myself again and the failure stamp was across my forehead. I noticed last time I was at Weight Watchers, the scale is right up against the table. So people who are MO cannot get on the scale properly without worrying about falling off. Well, the lecturer saw it and moved the scale out and told her staff to make sure it was out from the table. Tonight I go and sure enough, there is the scale again right up against the table. I had to bend down with 25 people in the room, and move the scale so I could get on it. Also they used to have a little line "Stay back here for privacy". Well, that's gone and of course the person behind me is right up on me and I wonder what she wants to see? Could it be how much I weigh? I feel intimidated by fat people at of all places WEIGHT WATCHERS! Oh please. I am so tired of this junk.
July 17, 2003
My appeal was sent in today. Carol at Dr. Vaughn's office advised me there were 55 pages sent in. Now we wait again...
July 25, 2003
I am going crazy waiting for approval. I read all the stuff about Cigna and it just causes me to focus on it constantly. I am so tired! Help me to enjoy where I am on the way to where I am going!
July 28, 2003
Got a letter from Cigna yesterday outlining the policy for appeals. I should have an answer in 10 days.
August 7, 2003
Well, Cigna said 15 days from 7/23 but haven't heard and it is the 8th. Again they don't understand what we are going thru. The agony of waiting for their response. However, I am feeling quite good these days. Doing WW for the last time and I've lost 25 lbs by doctor's scaled, 20 by WW. Isn't that interesting -- I always have wondered what WW did to those scales. So my feet are feeling better and me too. Will call Cigna today and find out what the scoop is!
August 8, 2003
Denied again by Cigna: lacking of 2 26 week supervised dieting. I stayed on hold for 18 minutes while they read and clicked and finally James in pre determination told me. I told him to please note that I will go to the next level and will get an attorney and he snickered! Do you believe it? Very discouraged, disheartened...but I will press on!
August 18, 2003
I made the decision today to hire the Lindstroms to fight my denial. I cannot deal with this one more day. So I will do what I need to do today to get everything together and get it out to them.
August 27, 2003
E-mailed Dr. Vaughan's office to get my records. Once these come and I have another appt with PCP on Tuesday, 9/2/03, I will get all my records again from PCP and copy my updated WW info and send all to Kelley Lindstrom.
I am now being plagued with skin irritations and found helpful info on the WLS site. Posting it for anyone who needs it. These were taken from the questions and answers section. It is listed below.
September 12, 2003
11:00 a.m. Today I sent a complete copy of all my records, dieting cards, etc. to FPL for their review. I was advised that this may be the ticket. I sent a pic of myself too so they can see I am a real person. Praying LORD, LORD! It's my turn!
Later that same day. . .
4:45 p.m. -- Oh Lord! I just got a call from FPL and they wanted to know if I had gotten an atty yet. I said no and I just mailed you a pack of my records. She said I am so glad! We want to review your case. I told her she should have everything by Wednesday! I think this is going to happen! I am so excited I can't even stand it! She doesn't understand the 2 26 week diets in the last year. That is not protocol! It is one within the last year and I'VE GOT THAT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Jesus, I'm waiting for you to work a miracle!Addendum to my 9/12/03 entry: My plan is self insured and therefore the employer is really the one who calls the shots! I had talked to the Human Resources Dept on two occasions and cried to them. They were very sympathetic and said you have to go thru the process with Cigna. So I was doing that. But when I was denied the second time I thought this stinks. I know FPL can change this for me if they want to. So that is when I put together all my records, correspondence, denials, cost of surgery, dieting attempts, the whole bit, along with a picture and my own personal story about being MO. and sent it off to the address the company had given me. I had told the woman on the phone that I was going to have to get an atty and I really didn't want to do that.
September 22, 2003
Called the HR department and they "are reviewing your file right now". Oh Boy!
September 26, 2003
Called the HR department and there is one more meeting scheduled to review my file scheduled for the week of 9/28. However, "I know you are going to be approved." WHAT? I'm approved... Letter should be coming in two weeks. Praise the Living God!
October 15, 2003
I am officially approved. Thank you Lord Jesus. I am so excited. I share in the joy with my special Angel Leigh Ann. I love you GF!
October 16, 2003
I have my own personal representative who is an RN. She works with FPL and Cigna. If I have any trouble I am to call her and she will deal with any problems. I will call her tomorrow at 8:00 a.m. so we can get this show on the road!
October 17,2003
Finally Dr. Vaughan's office should have the EKG they needed for the anesthesiologist. I talked to Mary McGuire at length this a.m. regarding what to expect after surgery. I am going to implement an exercise program. I will walk the driveway (we have a big driveway). lso may have to invest in some Tedds stockings. If I get an RX Cigna will pay for it. May have to go to Charlotte to get these. Getting excited. Dr. Vaughan's office should have approval number today.
October 20, 2003
Called Dr. Vaughan's office, they have verbal approval and they are sending my file over to the main office. So I am waiting for the nurse to call me.
October 24, 2003
Still haven't heard from Dr. Vaughan's office. I will call on Monday to find out what is going on. Had a call from FPL HR dept on 10/23/03 returned call but did not get a response. This could have been in response to my call before I had my approval number.
October 29, 2003
Wow this is Bob's and my 37th Anniversary. And next year I will be a big loser. The nurse called from Dr. Vaughan's office today. Everything is fine. We talked about the fact that because I had had numerous surgeries that even though it is planned for lap if there were too many adhesions an open could be possible. However, Dr. Vaughan has a 1% rate of going from one to the other. Hey, I'm lap all the way! Getting very very excited. Once you see Dr. Vaughan it moves quickly with pre-testing and surgery. Dates: 12/8 or 12/15. It is going to be my turn soon.
October 31, 2003
I HAVE A DATE! DECEMBER 8TH! WHOPPEE! Pre-op for 12/3. I will be heading to Florida on the 1st most likely. Having all my kids for Thanksgiving so will probably follow my daughter home to Florida for my surgery. I am so excited.
What can I say to those waiting, praying, dreaming? Be persistant! Don't give up! Keep fighting those insurance companies. I never in a million years thought I would be saying approved never mind I HAVE A DATE!
November 6, 2003
I have my handbook from Dr. Jefferson Vaughan. It is incredibly full of everything I need for my new life's journey. Dr. Vaughan doesn't fool around -- he is very strict about this surgery. I like that -- there is no mistake when you read your after surgery diet that this is life changing. He wants you to lose the most weight you can and KEEP IT off forever. I like this doc and I haven't even met him yet! All my pre-op will be done 12/3 -- surgery is 12/8 at 10:30 a.m. I take my cocktail the day before! Fun! I am ready!
November 7, 2003
This is for my children:
Deb and Frank, Chrissie and Rodney, Bobby and Tracie, Paula -- Thank you for loving me no matter what...Thank you for your support during this life changing decision. Next year let's do something we've never done together -- how about climbing to the top of "Hoefl Mountain"? Maybe next summer?
To my grandchildren:
Krista, Ashley, Cara, Alexis, Talor, Christopher and Joseph -- next year Grammy will tell you a story and we'll sit on the floor while we are reading it.
And for my little Talor: No, sweetie, Grammy isn't too old to sit on the floor, she just never could!
Update 12/6/03 -- And another grandbaby is due August 23, 2004. Thank you my Jesus for all my precious grandbabies.
To all my babies who never care whether Grammy is big or small -I love you.
To Bob:
Thank you for a pretty good 37 years -- can the next 20 be the best ones? I'm ready and I know you are too.
To my Sisters:
Sue and Carol, Lift me up!
To my Angel, Leigh Ann:
Thank you sweetie -- you are such an encourager to me.
-------------------------------------------------------
To all my prayer warriors and friends who have stood by me thru thick and thin (well, sort of)...
I love you all...Mom, Grammy, Peg
November 21, 2003
17 days, wow. I am feeling a bit weepy. Crying at the drop of a hat. I'm normally not like that. Maybe it is because my brother-in-law just broke his neck (he is doing great though) and I am having all my kids and grands for Thanksgiving. Lots to do and not a lot of time. Leaving for Florida a week from Sunday. I have to pack yet. Blood work on Monday. Still have a couple of things to accomplish at the Center. Oh man...this is getting close.
November 29, 2003
Thanksgiving is over -- Leaving for Florida tomorrow. Suitcase is packed. 8 days + some hours...this is really going to happen. I've seen all my kids, grandkids, Mom, I've been prayed over, and anointed. The crisis pregnancy center is in order, Kristina is in charge. I won't worry about it. The word for me is focused. I am focused. I know the plans that God has for me -- plans to give me a hope and a future. I am very excited about what the future holds for me. I am ready. It snowed here today and before this season of snow is over I am going out there and making a snow angel. No last letters for me folks -- I know who holds my future and He is in control -- I will write my hello letters for Christmas!
December 3, 2003
Happy Birthday to Paula, my daughter!!!Had my preop today, met with Dr. Vaughan. He is great. Really like his style. I would not hesitate to recommend him. Jupiter Medical Center is good. I like the focus on the patient there. Didn't like the yoga kind of focus one of the members of the team taught. But I don't need to focus on that -- I will focus on praying and my Lord. Clear liquids only on Sunday, and nothing after midnight. Take the "cleaning out cocktail" 4:00 on Sunday and spend the rest of the day in the bathroom! My have to have open due to previous gut surgeries. But I still believe it sill be lap! I'm ready! Come on Monday, 12/8.
Okay, I did have real pizza here in Florida and a Russo's submarine and a Carvel ice cream. But I'm finished now! Really!
12/6/03
Two days...boy I am starting to think of all the things I want to do -- made a date with Bobby, my son, and Cara, my granddaughter (10 today) to go skiing on Beech Mountain, NC before the close of this ski season. Made a date with my other grandchildren to ride Top Gun at Carowinds next summer. Maybe a trip to Disney next summer and I'll just ride everything. I love the rides and haven't been on any for many, many years...why? Because I couldn't fit!
I only brought smaller clothes to Florida for my recuperation. Several capri outfits I had bought two summers ago when I lost weight on WW and of course gained it back. So I brought 10 outfits and I plan on wearing them before I leave.
Focused, psyched, not nervous...
December 12, 2003...some thoughts. I have this huge list for taking to the hospital. I used underwear, sanitary napkins for bladder control, hairbrush, sneakers, CD player first night. That was it. I never even opened my suitcase. I had other things happening.
For those with a gastrostomy tube and they tell you to crush your pills and put them in it...forget it what a mess. I took an hour and made a total mess of myself, my daughter's bathroom, yuk. Called the doctor's office and she said crush them and take them in water by mouth. Check this out if this is something you will need to do.
BP is totally under control already.
Okay, make the nurses put on the compression boots if you are supposed to have them. They may fuss -- who cares? It is your life. Oxygen, make sure they give it back to you if you are supposed to have it. I believe we can get into trouble when we ask and don't demand what we are supposed to have. Demand it if you have to.
12/14/03: Cara is the champ of her division on balance beam and 2nd in floor. Way to go!
12/18/03 Revisit to doc. Had most tubes out but the gastrostomy tube. That has to stay in for another week. That's okay. the other one was hurting so badly. Lost 18 lbs. Feel good. Things do not taste good however. Very strange. things that were good, aren't so good.
12/22/03 Had my first meal today. 1 TBSP of scrambled egg. Very nice. No problems whatsoever. had about the same of tuna with a bit of low fat mayo mid day. Again no problems. I am so glad I can start getting some protein in. I have been in a state of blah. Feeling quite good. Dreams are almost gone. I guess from the anesthesia. Still seem to have short term memory loss! Size 8 regular width shoes: what a miracle. I was ordering 50-100 dollar shoes with EEE widths. Now I can go to Wal Mart and pick up a pair for 6.88. Underwear: How lovely. I was in the biggest size of JMS, white cottons. Now I have dropped 3 sizes and in the sport, colored briefs! The waist band hits right on an incision wound so that will wait for a couple more days. Feel good, feel privileged to have had this surgery. So much going on with Cigna I feel blessed and highly favored of God that I get in under the wire. Psalm 35 and Psalm 70 did it. Still having a hard time getting water in. So I'm doing herbal tea in the a.m. instead of coffee, and in the afternoon. That helps with the water input.
Never realized how my husband loves to eat. He talks about what's for lunch, what's for dinner, what's for blah blah all the time! Unreal. I keep telling him nothing for me, you do it! Good thing he is a cook.
December 22, 2003, on a very sad note, Bobby and Tracie, Cara and Joey, I am so sorry we have lost our precious little one. Miscarriage is a terrible thing. You know I mourn with you. Now we have another little one to "...Hold in heaven".
12/31/03 Home from Florida. Great trip -- good to be home. Feel wonderful. Down 30 lbs. Clothes fit! This is great.
1/19/04 Have lost 38 lbs. Feeling great. Life is new again. Doing things I haven't done in years. Putting on my socks normally, tying my shoes. Walking all over the place and not having that pain in my back. I don't need a cart to push anymore. Feel great.
Food is really not an issue anymore at this point. I just eat what I need to survive which really isn't much. Worried about getting the protein in but with protein drinks that isn't an issue either.
Your brain wants the food but your stomach doesn't. Still difficult to see people eating or when we go out what to eat. I was terrified of dumping on anything but I think I am over that now. If I'm not eating junk food and I don't, you pretty much don't have to be terrified of dumping.
Getting a lot of recipes off line because what you do eat you want to taste good.
Vitamins are important. Trying to decide now which vitamins to buy. I want the most in one pill. Trying to keep the costs down in all of this. I bought so much protein stuff that I did not like at all. Don't do that post-ops newbies. Only get samples and don't trust the people in the health food stores to tell you something tastes good! I did and ended up with a case of horrible protein bars. Get a single bar first and try it. Or a single pack of protein powder. Don't rush out to buy all the vitamins until you know what you are supposed to be taking and then research who has the best deal. Right now I'm looking at Susan Maria's vitamins. Those seem to have the complete package in them.
Get the counts on carbs and sugar and total protein. Now what you are looking for. Figure out for yourself what you can and cannot have.
Get yourself in a routine of eating, drinking, vitamins, protein drinks. It helps. Life is changing for us and we have to be ready for that.
Feeling great, looking better, I like life!
1/26/04 279 -- Only weighing once a week now. I was driving myself crazy doing it every day. Much better this way. Got Susan Maria's vitamins and so far so good. Have added a few new things to my diet, however I am not real brave about it. Had one episode of frothing and I don't want to do it again. It was horrible. Thought I was dying. I ate too fast. Sticking to pretty much the same foods, eggs, turkey bacon, fish, tunafish, chicken. Tried some asparagus about 4 bites and some green beans about 5. That was plenty and after eating my protein it was a lot. Have been eating crackers and low fat wheat thins for the crunch. I like the crunch of something. Seem to want salt. Found a new crispy treat at GNC -- they are great even the plain ones, they seem to melt in your mouth. Not much nutritional value in them, and they are certainly considered a snack but I try to eat them with tuna or a meal. Sticking to the pro performance protein powder from GNC. It is good, stays down and is not hideously expensive. 23 g per 8 oz. I add some 2% or skim milk and 1/2 banana and it really fills you up and I feel ready for the day in the a.m.
Clothes are getting sloppy looking. Have a pile I'm getting rid of -- they are just too big. Others I will wear until I'm down to about 250. Then I will consider a few outfits. Fit into my regular dress shoes yesterday for a speaking engagement. That was nice. Don't have to wear ugly, expensive shoes anymore. Not sure whether I'll make my winter trip to the ski slopes or not. My son asked me today if I thought I would. We'll see. I would like to try it I have to say. Beech Mt also has a skating rink and I might try that if not the bunny slope.
There are hard times when all you want is something you can't really have. Food wise that is. But the urgency passes and you remember why you did this and you remember you can walk the Winston Mall without a cart after parking the car at the end of the parking lot, getting lost twice and still have a good time with your hubby. Prior to WLS my hubby would have had to get the car and meet me. I would have never made it. Feel good about that. Life is good.
2/2/04 Have had two episodes of apparently eating too fast. Lots of spitting, and horrible pain in my chest area. Finally had to sort of vomit to get some relief. I didn't think I did anything wrong but obviously I did. Not experimenting too much with food. Sticking pretty much to the regulars: tuna, beans, cheese, protein drinks, chicken, eggs. I am petrified I will be dump. If dumping is worse than what I have been doing, I don't want any part of it. Still craving salty. Taking iron and calcium now. Will probably take additional Biotin for the hair loss. Will join Curves this week as I am almost two months out. Weather here has been so crummy there is no walking around. It's been too cold, and too snowy, and too icy!
I'm not having any problems walking at all. Walk the malls, parked way in the back of Wal-Mart the other day and didn't even get a cart to lean on. My back never hurts anymore. I love it. My feet are still a bit numb and very sensitive. I am hoping as I drop more weight that will resolve. Still cold but not as bad as I was in the very beginning. Water is still an issue. I cannot get in enough water. I feel almost sick when I drink it. Not sure what to do about it. I have tried everything I know. It just makes me nuts not to drink it but makes me sick to drink it. I guess I should take sips all day long. And of course that is what I should be doing. Will start that now.
Sleeping in a regular bed has been good. I get a pain in my hip and I am wondering if it is because I am losing my padding! What a riot.
Car seat: Well, the car seat can go all the way up now and the steering wheel down a notch. I can reach the adjuster in the front of the seat while I seat! That was always impossible. I can reach my purse on the front seat, turn around and reach the back seat. I don't mind getting in and out of the car because it is not a big deal.
Going up stairs: I always went up and down stairs by putting one foot down and then the other foot with the one on the stair. I have stopped doing that. I go down normally and up normally. Snow and ice: Still nervous about walking in it but I am not as terrified of falling anymore because I know I can get up by myself.
Wow, lots of accomplishment in two months. Life is really great. I feel so good.
February 13, 2004 -- Went to Dr. today for 2 month blood work. BP was 80/143, lowest it has ever been. Down 49.5 lbs. Bra size down 2 sizes thus far. Having a great time with this new life. Feel renewed. Some have asked what is this like? When Jesus Christ found me it was the most wonderful day of my life, the second was WLS. I feel reborn and alive for the first time in years. Bob got me a diamond heart necklace for Valentine's Day. Wow, what a surprise. Saw one of my granddaughters this past week and she weighs less than I have lost. That was neat. We walked around together so I could remember what it was like.
Life is good. God is good. I am free to do great and mighty things for my Savior.
March 12, 2004
Working out 3 times a week at Curves and now that the weather is nice I am going to be walking. I am looking at two scales, one at home and one at Curves and I have lost from 66 lbs to 71 lbs! As long as I keep losing I'm happy. I have bought a couple of "cheaper" outfits from Rose's at their clearance racks. I bought a pair of jeans and my hubby said "they're too big!" I apparently am still doing the buying the biggest instead of what fits. I must stop that. I have dropped 4 bra sizes, 3 pants sizes. Going to Kohl's on Saturday and I'll see what those sizes say. This is fun.
My favorite thing to do now is go to Wal Mart (that's the only big store in my little small town) and shop without a basket. Why is that so much fun? Because I don't need the basket to lean on. Another thing? Park in the back of the parking lot and walk! What fun.
Scared my hubby the other day while he was working on our property, I wasn't really sneaking up on him but apparently I scared him. He never had to worry about me "sneaking" up on him because I couldn't walk that far. Now I can and I love walking all over our land.
Now if only Spring would get here!
Had a dumping episode the other day. First one and I pray last one. Ate an fast food egg and cheese biscuit without the biscuit after working out. Within 1/2 hour I was so sick. Someone said they are fake eggs and I am wondering if they put something in it. Never again will I eat anything that resembles an egg and cheese without the biscuit in a restaurant. I'll make my own.
I am determined to help anyone with insurance issues and encourage them as much as I can. It is not right that insurance companies will not cover this surgery.
Leigh Ann my precious Angel is APPROVED. I am so excited for her. We have prayed and cried and now she is approved!
Thank you Lord Jesus for all you have done for me. I just want to do all I can for you.
March 27, 2004
Went to the Joyce Meyer Conference in Greensboro. Wow we walked all over the place and I never got tired! What a miracle that was. If this had been last year, I would never have survived the Coliseum. Too much walking. I even fit in the seats! It was wonderful and I am refreshed and renewed in Christ.
Today rode the 4-wheeler with Bob! We both fit on it together. How super. Last weekend rode the 4-wheeler by myself and took a bath in the big garden tub. I was always afraid I would not be able to get out. I can and it was marvelous! So many new adventures. Life is wonderful. Still excited, still so happy I did this.
Clothes are getting extremely huge. Even the capri outfits are way too big. I really need to get some new things. I am feeling frumpy.
April 15, 2004
When shopping at Kohl's for an Easter outfit. Found one: size 20 pants, 1X sweater set. My little daughter in law was so excited when I came out of the dressing room. Buy it! I did. My husband loved it!
Down 88 lbs. I will hit 100 lbs by five months. Working out hard at Curves, walking, will start weights at the gym. Hitting the protein hard, trying to get the water in. I'll do it!
Loving life so much. Can work harder, clean better, sit on the floor, tie my shoes, touch my toes, walk up stairs without huffing and puffing, sit in a movie seat, sit in a booth at a restaurant, wear the seat belt in any car, pull my car seat all the way up and the wheel all the way down and now my husband has to move the seat back!
April 24, 2004
Mowed the grass on Monday. First time in 34 years. It was great. I enjoy doing that. Worked in my garden, got all my flowers planted. Painted the back door, washed windows, painted the rockers on the porch, cleaned the back porch. washed my car. What fun. My back doesn't hurt, I feel wonderful. I've lost over 50 inches total. Having a great time. I would make the same decision again!
May 8, 2004 -- five months and I hit my goal of losing 100 lbs. Well, okay, on the Curves' scale it is 100 lbs. at home it isn't quite there yet. However, the scale now goes away and I will bring it out on the 8th of each month. I cannot keep weighing like I do. I am driving myself crazy. Working out three days a week and walking. I believe I am going to join the regular gym however and let Curves go. I love the people there but this is not about friends, it is about using the window of opportunity. All my labs have been fine. My hair is okay so far. I am taking huge amounts of biotin and using a new shampoo and have prayed over my hair so I wouldn't lose it! It seems to be working.
I love my new life. It is wonderful. Went shopping today and bought a few more things. I love shopping now. It is amazing how we change as our bodies change. I worked in my flowers today and pulled every weed and planted more seeds. Next Saturday we'll do the vegetable garden. It will be the prettiest on this road because I will weed it.
I've lost over 60 inches total and that is amazing seeing I am only 59 1/2 inches tall. Don't worry about booths anymore at restaurants or tight spots. I can fit.
Two friends had their surgery this week and are doing well so far. Another friend has her surgery the end of May. Then we'll have a support group right here in the mountains. That will be great. There are just some things you need to talk about.
June 3, 2004
Well, today I bought two pair of 12/14 shorts at Wal-Mart. Me, 12/14 shorts. Last year at this time I was in, poured in at that, a 26/28 jersey type slacks. 4X tops. Today I wear an XL shirt. Life is totally different. I have to say I do have food issues. I sometimes wish I could eat more but I will not force it at all. Eating very simple protein meals. Lots of SF pops because I still have trouble getting in liquids. Love the Proplete shakes. They are quite good.
Hubby is buying me a self starting lawn mower so I can mow the lawn which I love to do. This is the first time ever that I can even think of mowing the lawn. My gardens are beautiful and I love being out there working on them. I work out in the gym 3 times a week for an hour and 20 minutes. I so enjoy walking on the treadmill for 30 minutes.
So is there a downside to this surgery? Sure there are. My feet still hurt because of all the years of abuse (all that extra weight on them), but I can wear regular shoes and love wearing sandals. I can paint my own toenails. I can't cross my legs yet -- I believe that will be coming shortly. I think having short legs is part of that problem. Stairs are no problem anymore. I like to take the stairs when the opportunity arises. I enjoy going to the store and just getting one of those little baskets instead of a cart to lean on. I love parking way out in the parking lot -- because I can. I even enjoy going to the dumpsters to take the trash. I could never even do that -- too much energy getting out of the car. AND some of the best things having to do with hubby: his t-shirts are too big! When he drives my car he has to adjust everything because he doesn't fit after I have driven! I can reach the lever on the seat and move it without getting out of the car. I can pull the steering wheel all the way down and put the seat all the way up and still have room between me and the steering wheel.
The best accomplishment this month was going to Waffle House. Last time I went I couldn't fit in the booth. I sat in the booth and could have had my year old grandson sitting on my lap. Lots of room left over. I almost cried. Then I saw a very MO lady come in and she had to sit at the counter and I knew why she had to because she knew she couldn't fit. I remember those days. My whole family was trained to ask for a table. If I was with friends I would go quickly inside and ask for a table. I don't have to do that anymore. Never again.
Susan Maria Leach always says "nothing tastes as good as thin feels". She is so right. Thin feels really great.
Loving life..............
July 3, 2004
Had my six month checkup with doc...didn't get to see him but saw his assistant and she is just great. Everything is good. Labs were all fine, bone density was great. Had lost a total of 119 lbs. at checkup. Still feeling good but not eating much at all. Still struggling with liquids but working on it. Can increase my diet to salads but I really can't eat that much so why try? A bit discouraged in that area when I read of so many eating salads and 3 or more meals a day. A meal for me consists of a bit of protein and perhaps 1/2 asparagus! Can only eat about 1/2 egg. But doctor's office says that is okay. Get most of my protein from protein drinks.
Was going to increase the gym to 4 times a week but hubby doesn't want me to get muscular! So I just had my trainer change my routine a bit to add a few more things to help tone.
I have about 65 lbs to go till goal. That is a bit short of the doctor's goal but I will be happy at 133 lbs rather than 120. I have found that clothes again are an issue because they are getting big so quickly now. I seem to spend a lot of money on clothes just so I can look decent.
I sound like I'm complaining and I may be a bit but I am very very happy with my new life. There are moments though when you wish you were "normal" again but then I remember that "normal" for me was 321 lbs! And I don't ever want to go there again. Exercising, walking, doing the physical things I could never do are more important than eating the wrong things.
This is the day that the Lord has made and I will rejoice in it...every day of my new incredible life!
July 19, 2004 Finally under 200 lbs. I can't remember the last time I was here. Starting to drink more liquids which is nice. Food is increasing a bit but not much and it seems to last a long time when I do eat. Finally got rid of all my huge clothes. Now I only have what I want to keep as a souvenir which is one complete outfit. Have been shopping at thrift shop and Goodwill and have found some really nice stuff. Starting to find some winter clothes so I won't be caught freezing. I still get very cold and want to be warm this winter. Making plans for Carowinds with all the grandkids and can't wait to ride the rides. It'll be hot but it'll be fun! Went swimming Sunday with the NC grands and they couldn't believe Grammy knew how to swim. What fun. I'm pleased with myself and what I'm doing. I put the scale away again until August 19th. I have to get back to once a month because I am becoming obsessive about it again. That's my update. I believe I am no longer super morbidly obese. I think my BMI is now below what Cigna says your BMI has to be. Only 66 lbs to go to my goal. But I am not going to focus on that, I am going to live each day now that I am under 200 happy and healthy! That is my plan anyway...
August 15, 2004 -- Well, I did go to Carowinds and rode Top Gun and the kids got the T-shirt for me. Had a blast. Fit into everything. It was wonderful. I'm in a regular "large" size now. XL is too big. Large pants are getting very loose. Can't believe I am this "small". Pretty neat. Met my Angel Leigh Ann in SC. She is super. She had her surgery 8/10 and I went to encourage her. It was neat meeting her and her family. She is doing great. Found another clothes store on the way home -- Hamrick's! I will remember that store for winter clothing. Still shopping at Goodwill. Getting good at finding name brands at bargain prices. It's fun.
September 6, 2004 Down to 177. Minus 144 lbs. 44 to go to goal. Feeling pretty good. Not the greatest but okay. Had to call the doc last week, well, e-mailed him. Maybe I have something going on. We'll discuss it this week now that Hurricane Frances is gone from Jupiter. The Walk for Life is Sat., 9/11 and I will walk it for the first time. Quite excited about it. Life is good. Clothes are expensive!
October 4, 2004
Today I weigh 169. My measurements are: Bust 39, Waist 36, Hips 46. Wrist is 6 1/2. Hair loss is done and I didn't lose much. I believe it was the great vitamins I took and the Hair, Skin and Nails from GNC. Actually my hair is better than it ever has been. This past week I have increased my eating a little bit. Trying to get in some new protein. I still don't eat very much at all. I noticed myself snacking somewhat and have stopped that this week. I am definitely still losing weight at the rate of about 10 lbs. a month. Inches are still coming off. Skin issues...I think I am doing pretty well in this area. My husband thinks so! I work out in a gym with a trainer when I need one (actually the trainer comes with the package at the gym, small towns are wonderful). I've changed my routine this past week to include some more arm work and abdomen work. We'll see if this helps. Protein drinks...I occasionally have one but for now I am using Carb Countodwn milk with SF cocoa and that helps me start my day off with 12 grams of protein. Labs have been great thus far. Went through a lot of frothing for many months but that seems to have stopped now in the past two weeks. Actually I feel really great.
What can I do now that I couldn't do last year?
Walk literally miles -- the other day I walked 2 miles just because I can.
Climb mountains
Pick apples in the bucket of my husband's backhoe
My big Toyota Forerunner is just that very big for me.
Wear size 12 slacks, Medium shirts, Medium jackets, size 8 undies, 38B bras, regular shoes 6 1/2 and regular socks.
Fit in a booth at Waffle House (or any other booth for that matter)
Schedule a skiing trip for this winter
Ride on Top Gun at Carowinds
Not being afraid I won't fit somewhere
Working in my garden all summer
Planting tulips and daffodils for 3 hours and not getting a backache
Pray on the floor for hours (I am a prayer intercessor.)
Love life totally and completely
Chase my grandchildren and sit on the floor with them
Cross my legs when I sit
Ride in a plane again
Sit Indian style on the floor
Have pictures taken at studio
Still to come:
Ride a horse (I could now I just have to find one!)
Make a snow angel (first big snowfall)
Go skiing
Go iceskating
Would I do this again? Yes, yes, yes. I would have done it earlier in my life. What about the risks? There are some, I would take them to have my life back.
I still have 36 lbs to go and I am trying not to focus on that so much (but I do!). I want to get to know this new woman that I am. I want to share my story with others and let them know there is hope but it takes WORK! It is not the easy way out. There are things we must do for the rest of our lives to stay this way. I for one am going to be that person that stays focused on the rules. I am grateful to my doctor, Jefferson Vaughan, M.D., Jupiter, FL for having rules that we have to follow. It is up to us to do those things. For those of you starting this journey, hang in, fight the insurance companies if you have to -- IT IS YOUR LIFE you are fighting for. My insurance company, CIGNA, should be counting some extra money because I was approved for this surgery: I take only thyroid medication now, I haven't been to the doctor for anything since surgery. I have had my lab work done and a checkup at my surgeon's. I have no more high blood pressure; no more bronchitis; pneumonia; arthritis. I am a whole person again. Go for it -- it is one of the best things you could ever do for yourself.
November 11, 2004
Down to 159 now. Wearing a 8-10 slacks, small tops. Love it. As of last week I have found that I can drink more than I have in a year. That is pretty neat. I can finally get in my liquids. Food: well, I am eating a bit more also. I find I have days when I am "hungry". I haven't been hungry in almost a year. Still following Dr. Vaughan's rules however, protein, water, exercise, and no snacking. I believe that is my life from now on. Working out three times a week and walking 3 miles 3 times a week. Made my year appointment for December 16th. I will fly this time and will fit in the seat! That will be exciting. I am really trying to settle into my new life. Not focusing so much on what I have lost but where I am. There is plenty of head stuff to deal with during this journey. People who haven't seen me still ask how much have you lost, what did you do, on and on. I have to say it does get boring after a while. I feel like I'm always talking about it. I'm ready to just settle in. Have heard of many who have had this surgery and are now eating like they did before. I'm not sure I understand why they would do that. We have to take responsibility for ourselves and now what we have to do to keep this way. I have 26 lbs to go to my goal of 133. When I get there I will see how I feel and whether I want to go to 120 which is Dr. Vaughan's goal for me. I will be content at 133 I think. I still am obsessed with the scale. I weigh every day. I don't think that is a bad thing anymore. I think it is a good idea for me. I know right where I am each day.
Still haven't found a horse to ride but I will! That is one of those things still to do. I will ski as soon as the NC weather is appropriate for the slopes to open. I am looking forward to doing that.
Life is great!
12/7/2004
One year tomorrow...seems impossible. Life has so changed for me. Wearing S-M tops, size 10 Petite zipper pants, size 8-10 jersey type pants, 34C bra, size 6 undies, shoes 6 1/2-7 regular width. Flying to Florida this week, in one seat without a seatbelt extension and will not be embarrassed if people need to get past me, because there is nothing to get past! Still have things to do on my list: horseback ride, ski, ice skate, sleigh ride down our mountain, make a snow angel. Will get most of this accomplished this winter. Take my real estate test today, something I would have never considered last year.
Problems still in my life: don't eat enough, don't drink enough, work out plenty and love it. Still have the fear I will start gaining and I am obsessed with the scale. My weight has only moved two lbs in one month and that drives me nuts. Still afraid to try anything new in my diet but somehow manage to get in salty things that aren't good for me. Not much but I do manage to get them in. Have lots of questions for my doc when I see him next week for my one year checkup.
Best things about all this: being an inspiration to many in my area that are having the surgery. And not being afraid to answer questions truthfully for those who wonder how I lost so much weight. Between weight loss surgery, adoption, life at the crisis pregnancy center and the best gift of all, my Savior Jesus Christ, these are my "favorite things".
Would I do it again? Yes, yes, yes and I would do it earlier in my life. Of course I didn't have that option because I'm 58 and the surgery was not perfected back when but for all the young people out there who are fighting obesity, stop fighting, get approved, or save your money and don't go through the horrors of obesity that some of us have gone through. Be determined you can do this, you can change your lifestyle with the proper tool, WLS, and start living life to the fullest. I certainly am.
To all who have supported me and loved me even when I was super morbidly obese, thank you, thank you, thank you. For my prayer warriors: You are what got me through. I love you all.
My new nickname? S-K-I-N-N-Y! Me, who last June weighed 348 lbs.
Praising God!
12/7/04 Just a note: It is very difficult to have your surgery in another state and not have the support that your surgeon offers. I believe I had the best but living 900 miles away sure has its downfalls. I don't have access to a dietician or my doctor if I have a problem. No support group that has also shared the same physician. I would still use Dr. Jefferson Vaughan but I believe I would find a closer support group and dietician (who knew what was going on) and stay in touch with them closely for the first year. I have not had that and I feel like I have suffered from it.
12/10/09 Wow haven't been on here in 5 years. Thank you Eric for the e-mail on my anniversary. I won't stay long, just an update. It has been a very huge struggle these past three years. I am up 30 lbs. I hate it! But we fall into old habits and I have and did. I still wear a size 12 and jeans in a 14 and I'm not skinny. But I am not 320 +/- lbs and I can walk, hike, do anything I want to do. I work out at least 3 times a week and will never stop that because it makes me feel great. Physically I am wonderful. No medications, no high blood pressure since surgery. I take lots of vitamins (yes, every day since surgery). I make sure my levels are good with a physical every year. I have no support group. We had one here in our little town but it went away like most of the people who came! Sorry to say since I am 860 miles from my surgeon I never had that. I firmly believe support groups, staying in touch with your surgeon, a nutritionist it is important.
I have had no plastic surgery. My insurance will not pay for it. I have skin and it is uncomfortable at times but I deal with it. I never had much like some but if my insurance would pay for it, I would go for it even though I am 63 years old!
So would I do it again? ABSOLUTELY! It was and is a life changer. Is my life improved? ABSOLUTELY! Can I do whatever I want to, yes in the physical arena -- NO in the food arena. There are still times I vomit because of overeating or eating the wrong things. Sugar is the killer. Newbies...don't even try it.