ObesityHelp

May 7, 2004 - I had my annual physical today, and I did it! I told my PCP that I wanted a referral for WLS. She gave me a couple of numbers to call, and I will be attending an orientation on May 10th. I am pretty solid in my decision, but am not sharing my decision with anyone besides my husband and mother. We will see what happens...

Let me take a moment a tell you a little bit about myself. I am a 36 year old married, mother of one 5 year old daughter. As many others, I have struggled with my weight most of my life. Because I am tall (6 feet), I have always carried it well, or so that's what they say. I am not depressed about my weight or life. I have a great family, great career, and a tons of friends and family that accept me for who I am. But...I am tired. Tired of the aching & popping knees, swollen & aching ankles, back problems, not fitting in stadium seats, not being able to chase and have fun with my daughter, and not fitting in airplane seats. I do not have any major co-morbidities, but do not want to wait until they present themselves. The straw that broke the camel back is when I went for my surgery consult and found out that my BMI is 52. I went in thinking my BMI was about 46. I did not realize how much weight I had put on in a little over a year.

I have decided to tell very few people. My husband, mother, and three friends (two of which are my prayer partners) know. Some people just don't understand and I do not feel like explaining myself to them. They'll know or should I say assume, when the pounds start dropping off.

I "toyed" with the idea of WLS several years ago, but never pursued it. About a year ago, someone in my line of work told me she had the RNY procedure. I have watched her over the year, and she looks wonderful!! After asking her a ton of questions, she gave me this website, and it was on after that! Thank you Gail!!!!

Well now that you know a little about me, I will keep track of my journey. After reading so many journeys of others, I was totally encouraged; now I want to encourage others.

My family...




May 2004

Well my journey has begun. After meeting with my PCP I got busy! I went to my orientation on May 10th. It was informative, but after doing research on this site and duodenalswitch.com, I have decided that I would prefer to have the duodenal switch (DS) surgery vs. the RNY. So I found out about a surgeon in the area and had my consulation with him on May 20th. I was totally comfortable with Dr. MacPherson, and my consult with him sealed the deal on DS surgery. His office staff told me I needed to get my referral going with my PCP, so I made an appointment with her.

I attended one of Dr. Mac's support groups, which he has every other Monday and it was very informative. To be able to actually speak personally with post-ops was very rewarding and comforting.

My appointment with my PCP was the following Friday. I informed her of my desires, and loaded her with info; my typed personal statement, my diet history, records from my last year at a fitness center, and general info on the DS surgery, just in case she was unfamiliar with it. She was impressed with the info that I gave her, and stated that she would look over it before submitting a referral. She also went ahead and ordered my bloodwork and gave me a "script" to see the pyshce. She said to come back in three weeks so we can go over my bloodwork and have an EKG done. I hope she would have submitted me referral by then. I guess I am really moving on this! I am so excited and can't hardly wait for my approval. This is going to be the major hurdle from what I have read. I have Blue Care Network and they recently tighthen their guidelines.

During this pre-op phase I will update monthly for the activites that occured during the month. As I move closer, I will update more often. The journey continues...



June 2004

I have been quite busy this month with work, but I have been making progress in my journey.

Since my last update, I have had my psyche eval. It went well. He had sent me a questionairre with a lot of questions on it that I had to fill out before my appointment. The appointment was fine. He went over my personal statement, asks several questions, etc. He said that he would recommend me for the surgery and stated that I should begin a regular exercise routine before the surgery so I will be in the habit after the surgery. So I will dust off my Taebo tapes and get working. I had to cancel my gym membership because of my work schedule.

I went back to my PCP. She did an EKG and said that see would clear me for surgery! Yippee! She gave me all my medical info, her letter of recommendation, and told me to go back to my surgeon for them to submit the info to the insurance company. When I called my surgeon, they said that the PCP should do the submitting, but they will do it for me. I have an appointment to go to my surgeon for my initial exam on July 8th, and for them to make sure my file is in order prior to submitting to the insurance company.

The nurse at my surgeon's office is not convinced that my insurance company is going to approve it. She said that Blue Care Network is being VERY difficult. She said so difficult that Dr. Mac is going to meet with the insurance company to see what is going on. I am going to push forward however, because I beleive in God's favor, His mercy, and Grace! I'll keep you informed...



July 2004

I had my pre-surgery exam with Dr. Mac early this month. It went well. Dr. Mac is really great! He came to the conclusion that I am just a big, big-boned, healthy "girl". He does not see any reason why I would not be a good candidate for surgery. So his office staff was going to get my packet together to send back to my PCP for submittal to the insurance company. That was the second week of July, it is now the end of July and I have not heard anything back yet. I have been so busy at work that I have not been able to call to follow-up. I will do so in the next couple of days. I am still prayerful for approval and a surgery date late August/early September. If it doesn't happen then, I will have to shoot for late December due to some major events coming up in October for me. The saga continues...



August 2004

Darn the insurance industry!!!

I just happened to call my surgeon's office on August 16th to see if they had heard from the insurance company. The nurse pulled my file and said they received a denial letter on July 21st. The insurance company DID NOT even have the decency to send me a letter!!!!

They claim I do not have documented proof of physician monitored weight loss for a consecutive 12 months prior to the request.

That's baloney!!! I sent in all my information from a Fitness Center that I attended for 1 1/2 years...all my workout sheets and my fitness assessments that they did. There was no physician monitoring it, but the Fitness Center is within a major hospital here in Detroit, with trained people doing the assessments and monitoring.

The nurse told me to contact my PCP to start the appeal process or wait until December when I can change insurance companies through my DH. This is a bunch of crap! The only reason I am not totally steaming is because I started a new job August 9th and did not really want to be off of work this quickly. I now want my surgery around December, so hopefully my appeal process will be through by then. I really do not want to change insurance companies. I have Blue Care Network right now and can switch to traditional Blue Cross, but is cost so much more.

So after two weeks of playing phone tag with my PCP, we got an appeal letter together and resubmitted my workout documentation. I do not know what in the heck else they want - my first born child???? My PCP said she would fax the appeal information the week of August 23rd. I hope the fact that they did not personally send me a denial letter makes them reverse their decision.

If not for the staff at Dr. Mac's I would not know what to do. They keep encouraging me, and convinced me that I will get approved, I just have to jump through their hoops! I will wait a week or so before calling them back to see the outcome.

More to come...



November 2004

It's been a few months since my last post. I was in the appeal process, busy with work, planning my parents 50th anniversary - renewal of vows/reception, and there was little to report on.

Well, on Thursday, Nov. 18th, my surgeon's office called with the best Christmas gift! I have been approved by Blue Care Network! My surgery is scheduled for Dec. 13th! Just when I wanted it!!!! Things always work together for the good!

I am now officially nervous and excited at the same time! I go for pre-op testing on Wednesday, Nov. 24th. I guess Thanksgiving dinner will be my "last supper" so to speak. I have been eating everything in site this weekend!

I now will re-read all the posts that I started reading when I began this journey in May/June of this year.

Please keep me your prayers, and keep those words of wisdom and encourgaement coming!

The journey is continuing...

Me in Hawaii this month...




November 30, 2004

Well, this thing is really happening!

I was told to take the day before Thanksgiving off (darn - an extended holiday:giggle: ), for my pre-op testing. I had to go to Dr. Mac's for a mini-physical - weight, blood pressure, etc. and to see if I had any questions. My DH went with me. His position is that he does not want me to have the surgery, but he will support me. I guess that is as good as it gets!? Anyone have this issue? He did ask questions of the Dr. and the nurse so that was good.

Dr. Mac said is should try to lose weight before my surgery date, because it will make my stomach soft which will make surgery easier. I will try! I have lost three pounds since my last visit to him. I wasn't even trying! The nurse went over my pre-surgery day diet, and my diet for the first month or so. They really encourged my getting up and moving as soon as possible after the surgery.

After I left his office, I had to go to the hospital so they could create my chart and do more testing. My DH came with me to this as well. I met with a nurse and the anestigiologist (sp?). She informed me that Dr. Mac does not want his patients to have epidurals. I thought this was pretty common. Darn! She said he uses something else. They also did an updated EKG and took more blood. The hospital in North Oakland Medical Center in Pontiac, MI. I had never heard of this hospital, but the staff were very friendly. I got a good feeling.

I am so excited and nervous at the same time! I have told more of my family about the surgery, but still haven't told my dad. He would worry too much. I will tell him closer to the surgery date.

I have been busy cleaning my house, washing, and getting things in order for my family. I started and finished my Christmas shopping on Friday, so now I want to wrap everything up. We put up our Christmas tree and inside kinck-knacks on Sunday. I love this time of the year!

Any additional advice or "heads-up" as I count my days down - 12 to go!!!!

So it goes on...



December 1, 2004

Twelve more days to go. I am a mixed ball of emotions. I ended up telling my dad about the surgery yesterday. He was not happy, but asked me if I had prayed on it. I said "yes", and he accepted that. My spirit is at peace with the decision, but that does not take away the nervousness. Does that mean I do not have the faith - I don't think so? It just means I am human. I am going to take my daughter out to dinner tomorrow and explain to her that "mommy will be having work done on her body, and probably unable to play with her for a few weeks". She's pretty smart, so I think she will be fine.

My husband works afternoons, so I plan on staying with my parents after my release from the hospital for the 1st week at least.

I have a ton of things to complete at work before I go on leave, but I can't concentrate. I keep getting on this website and duodenalswitch.com reading and posting. I feel like an addict :haha: These sites are so wonderful and informative. They tell the good, bad, and ugly!

It's weird to not tell some of my friends that I talk to on a daily basis. I just don't want to hear any negativity or "all you have to do is..." They will all find out eventually or some will have to assume. My husband, parents, siblings, and about six friends know. Three of the six will be at the hospital. I will have one of them keep you all abreast of my surgery outcome.

I went to Hawaii in November. As I sat on the plane I told myself, this is the last time I am going to have to ask for an extension seat belt. This was before I knew I was approved!

Later...



December 6, 2004

OK, OK. My surgery is seven days away and I am still a mess. My emotions are running all over the place. I could barely sleep last night.

I did tell my daughter about my surgery. She's 5 years old. I told her I was going to the hospital to get some work done on my body. She asked "are you coming back". Now you know that caught me off guard! I told her that was the plan. She said she would come visit me and she hoped I would be OK. (She's very insightful.)

The other issue that I think is also weighing on my DH is that Dec. 8th is the 2nd anniversary of his father's death. This has to be heavy on his mind and play a part of his reluctance for me to have this surgery. I will have to be very sensitive to this.

I feel very at peace with my decision in my spirit, but that still does not take away the nervousness, the uncertainty, the slight "fear" of what if I don't make it. I know I am rambling, but I am sure the veterans went through this same thing. For pre-ops this is to let you know that you are not alone. I've read other encourgaing post for others, but it's different now that it is me!

This is a little weird for me, because I am usually the "encourager". I am a social worker and listen to others on a regular basis. Now I need to be listened to.

Thank you all for listening, for your words, for your prayers. Dec. 13th is fast approaching!



December 10, 2004

Three more days to go...
Well I made it through the week! I am sitting here at work. I finally wrapped-up everything I was working on. I think! LOL My emotions are still pretty wacky. I haven't cried though. I am going out with two of my friends that know about the surgery for my final pre-op soiree (Sp?) We intend on hanging out until we can't anymore. Tomorrow I will eat, have fun, eat, finish cleaning up my house, eat, make sure my daughter's clothes are ready for next week, eat, finish wrapping gifts, and eat. :-) No actually I haven't been eating any more than usual. I am trying to loose a few pounds as my Dr. suggested.

This week I've being reading and posting on the message boards. Special "shout out" to the BAF and DSF. You guys are great!

I also went grocery shopping for the first few weeks and my liquid only diet for Sunday. I bought a bunch of cans of soup, jello, pudding, Ramen Noodles, yogurt, cottage cheese, and fruit cups. The cashier must have wondered what was going on. I took some of it over my parents house (where I will be staying after release from the hospital), and took the rest home.

I am almost finished wrapping my Christmas gifts. If you saw my tree you would think I WAS finished, but I love this time of the year and buy so much stuff. Besides my daughter, my husband and I have four beautiful Godchildren, 16 nieces and nephews, 3 great nieces, and tons of others that we are blessed to have in our life. We get them all something! It's wonderful to have so many in our lives, and a blessings to be able to buy them all something. GOD IS GOOD - ALL THE TIME!

At work only my office mate knows I am having WLS. My other team members know I am having surgery, but no one has asked what. I'm glad, because I was not going to tell them. My office mate is doing this supervised liquid diet and has lost 10 pounds in one week. You go girl! No one else in the office knows what she is doing either. I brought my camera so we could both take before pictures. I hope to get them posted soon. People are going to think we are on crack in our office because we are going to be so trim and slim! Well, not slim but smaller. LOL I will never be slim, I am big-boned! A size 14 - yeah - I'll take that!

Well I guess that's it for now.

THREE DAYS TO GO...



December 12, 2004

I have had a great time this weekend. My family went to church today. My DH made sure that we met with our Pastor so he could pray with us. You know I have to go in surgery with it right with my Saviour. He's been so good to me, I know He will be with me tomorrow during the surgery, guiding my surgeon, the nurses, assistants, the equipment, the instruments, and everything! Thank you Jesus!

Today I had to do liquids/soft food, and drink some Magneseum Citrate. WOW - talking about the runs, that was something! I had some tomato soup, mashed potatoes, and pudding. I really didn't have an appetite though. I finished packing, wrote out some bills, and received some "well wishes" phone calls from those who know about my surgery.

It's nearly 6:30 p.m. on Sunday evening. In 12 hours I will be at the hospital prepping for my 7:30 a.m. surgery.

I am nervous and excited at the same time! Emotions are a crazy thing. I thank each and everyone of you for your advice, encouragement, support, and words of wisdom.

My surgery will be at North Oakland Medical Center in Pontiac, MI. Dr. Mac is my surgeon.

My DH and I are going to spend the night at his co-worker's house in Pontiac so we don't have too far to travel in the morning. We are about to leave and drop our daughter off at a friend's, visit my parents, and head to "Yac" town as they call it.

I'll see you all on the losing side!!!!




I'M SWITCHED AND I'M A LOSER!!!!!
December 26, 2004

Merry Christmas and Happy Kwanzaa all! I am 13 days post-op and feeling great! I officially came back to my home on Thursday, Dec. 23rd, but with final holiday preparations, I have been unable to post.

Well, I have a few minutes so let me tell you my entire surgery story...

My DH and I went to Pontiac the night before my surgery. I thought that I would not be able to sleep not only because of the surgery, but because I wasn't at home. Well, I was wrong. I went to bed about 10:30 pm and slept straight through the night. We woke up at about 5:00 am, got cleaned up and dressed, and headed to the hospital. I was not nervous! My screw fell out of my glasses, so I was holding them all the way to the hospital. For those who depend on your visual aides, you know how frustrating this was. LOL! Well as we neared the hospital, I dropped my lens and could not find it at all! DARN!

My DH drove me to the door, and I gave up the search for my lens and went into the hospital and he parked. We got there at about 6:15 am for my 6:30 appointment. I went to the surgery waiting room and was greeted by a nice, older lady. She told me that as soon as my husband got there, she would take me down to surgery prep. After my DH came in, she told us to say our good byes so she could take me down. I was floored because I thought he could come down with me. She said that this was it until I came out of recovery. But wait I thought, my parents were on their way, so was my one Sands/sorority sister who knew about it. I had to see them first. But I didn’t. I hugged my DH for what seemed like an eternity, gave him my broke glasses, coat, and purse, and headed off.

We went downstairs to the pre-op room. She gave me a gown, robe, and razor (to shave you know where). We went in a large bathroom, she told me to stand on a sheet, shave (yeah, right, without my glasses), put on my gown, and pee in a cup. Must be the final pregnancy test, I thought. I remember reading a post about the lady who had her surgery and found out she was pregnant during it. That would be all I needed. Not only do we not want another child, I would have to hold off my surgery. How selfish – I know LOL. True though!

After getting ready, I headed for the bed with my name on it and got in it. Still not nervous yet. I had prayed, repented for all my sins, and turned it over to the Lord so why fret? I can’t remember everything, but I do remember the nurses talking about their holiday plans, I spoke with my anesthesiologist – no epidural per Dr. Mac. – darn, I got my IV started and an “art” line started. Then I was told they would give me something to help relax me. After that, I remember seeing Dr. Mac, and I remember a mask coming on my face, but nothing else.

I woke up in recovery about 6 hours later! They had me in my hospital bed and wheeled my off to my room. I met my DH at the elevator. When I got to my room, I noticed that I had a tube in my nose and a catheter in my bladder. I’m glad they waited until I went to sleep. I remember dozing on and off, my three friends and husband visiting, and the nurses telling me that I needed to be walking by 8:30 pm. WHAT – they must be crazy!!!! But I did get up and walk – only to my door – but I did it!

Without all the minor details, I stayed in the hospital until that Friday, the 17th. Dr. Mac is a stickler, which I am so grateful for. I didn’t pass gas or have a BM so he would not let me go home. They gave my a suppository on Thursday, which worked, so I was released the next day. The Drs and nurses were all impressed with my recovery and my willingness to walk, etc. Walking is so important!!!! I am a true believer now.

Upon my release I went to be pampered by my parents for a week. My DH works afternoons so I did not want to be home alone. My daughter visited from house to house the first few days, so I could get some rest.

So here I am thirteen days out! Feeling fine!

Some post-op snap shots:

1ST DR’s VISIT:
-Got staples removed
-Down 18 ½ pounds!!!! Don’t see it, but it happened!

Dr. Mac said he wished all his patients were like me :-)!

THINGS I HAVE DONE:
-Went Christmas shopping
-Went over my brother’s for Christmas Dinner
-Went to the movies
-Went after Christmas shopping

When I am tired, I rest. DO NOT over do it!

THINGS I HAVE EATEN:
Remember, I did not have the RNY, I have the DS, so I am able to eat a little different. Always check with your Dr.

1st week: Soup, Ramen noodles, pudding, apple sauce, oatmeal, cream of wheat, fruit juice bars.

2nd week: In addition to 1st week foods, lasagna with meat sauce, waffles.

My Christmas meal: Dressing, Mac & Cheese, Greens, String Beans, a sliver of Cheese Cake and a taste German Chocolate cake.

Day after Christmas: I had my first restaurant meal – Olga’s – a ¼ of Spinach pie, a ¼ bowl broccoli soup, and two snackers.

I can add baked/broiled chicken and fish tomorrow.

I have not gotten nauseated at all. It does not take much for me to get full. Sometimes, I feel like something is “stuck” and I haven’t figured out if its because I didn’t chew good enough, or ate too much. Still trying to figure this out.

The thing I miss most: Pepsi. I can’t have carbonated drinks until 6 weeks out. I hope I lose my taste for it, because there are so many empty calories in it. We will see…

I have been trying to get my water in, but it’s pretty hard.

I think that’s it for now. I’ll update later…







January 9, 2005

Well it’s past time for an update… Happy New Year’s everyone! Here I am nearly 4 weeks post-op and doing fine!

I went back to work at 3 weeks post-op. I did fine and there are no problems to report. I started to get comments last week about my weight loss. It’s pretty cool.

I want to take this posting to do a little reflecting:

EATING: This has become very weird to me. I do have hunger pains when I am hungry, but it only takes a few bites to feel me up. I must confess that I really do not enjoy eating at this time because it takes so much thought. Eat slow – chew your food carefully – don’t drink with your meal. And sometimes I feel the food going down. It’s like I can picture it moving through my system. This is not as bad as it was at first however. Another weird thing is that when I have a taste for something, once I eat it, I do not want it again – there goes the ides of leftovers, so I waste a lot of food.

I am pleased to say that I can eat and tolerate everything that I have tried. I am eating chicken, fish, ground meat, and I can add steak next week. I can’t wait because I love steak. I know I will only be able to eat a couple of bites, but that’s OK with me.

I have a hard time getting all my water in, but I make an effort everyday. I also like iced-tea and apple juice. Still missing Pepsi horribly! Only a few more weeks to go before I can add carbonated drinks, though I will do so very modestly.

I can go out to dinner with people and not feel neglected, which is great for me because I socialize often! Mainly I look at people and think that I used to that much and more!

I do not have any head hunger.

EMOTIONAL: One of the most frustrating things for me is that I barely see any weight loss. I am guessing that I have dropped about 35-40 pounds. People tell me that I am losing and that it can be seen in my face and neck area. My legs are disappearing too, because my work pants are so baggy!

When it’s quiet and nothing particular is on my mind, I sometimes wonder what have I done to myself. I don’t have any regrets at all, but I have made a life changing decision, and that’s pretty deep when you think about it.

BOWEL MOVEMENTS: Not to be gross, but this is a big deal post-op. I have BM everyday. Usually in the morning. Lately it been twice before I get out of the house. They are not as stinky as I heard they would be. For the most part they are soft, but not diarrhea consistency. They are most often irritating, meaning my stomach feels very funny during them. I actually go less now than I did before the surgery. I have only had to go once this whole time while being not being at home.

Now my gas is another story. LOL! Those monsters can be stink bombs, and sometimes loud as ever. I often pray that no one comes in my office during those times.

Overall, I am please with my surgery, recovery, and weight loss. I would highly recommend it to those who are interested. But please DO YOUR RESEARCH. I would also highly recommend the duodenal switch. Learn about it!

I will update after my next Dr’s appointment.




I started a goals list a couple of weeks pre-op. They are listed below:

Goal #1: To have a successful surgery and come to the losing side. (DONE-12/13th)

Goal #2: To have lost at least 25 pounds by the end of 2004. (DONE- officially weighed on 1/13th, down 37 pounds)

Goal #3: When I go to Vegas on February for my Sands b-day (ooo-oop), to not need a seatbelt extension. (Trip was cancelled until April - DONE April 21st - went to Vegas was able to close the seat belt and even had to tighten it [OK only about 3 inches, but still...])

Goal #4: For my 9th Wedding Anniversary in March, to buy a sexy dress in a size 20 or less. (Didn't buy a dress, but was a size 22/24. Looking back this goal was unrealistic.)

Goal #5: For my 37th Birthday in April, to buy a sexy outfit in a size 18 or less and be under the 300 mark. (Size goal - was unrealistic, but I can wear a 22, some 18/20 depending on material; Be under 300 mark - DONE 3/10/05: 293.2; on my birthday I was about 276 pounds)

Goal #6: By my 6th month post-op anniversary to be at or darn near at the 100 pound loss mark. I want to be in the Century Club!

Goal #7: To not feel like I have to use the handicapped bathroom in public.

Goal #8: To not have marks on my thighs from squeezing in the seats at the sports arena or the theater. (DONE- April 30th, went to the Fox Theater and my hips did not even touch the sides of the seat!)

Goal #9: To not have to put a girdle on top of sheer stockings to keep them up! LOL! (DONE- April 21st. Stocking up, with room to spare!)

Goal #10: To not be scared to sit in one of those plastic lawn chairs that everyone has in their backyards for fear of cracking it to pieces.

Goal #11: To fit into any ride that I desire at the amusement park.




January 13, 2005
Happy 1 Month Anniversary to me!!!!

I haven't had my appointment with my surgeon yet, but I figured I should update on my anniversary.

It is offically one month since my surgery!!! I am doing well and feeling great. I would say that I am at 80% back to normal.

It is sometimes an overwhelming thought that I had such a major surgery. Not only was a portion of my stomach removed and my intestines shorten, I also had my gallbladder and appendix removed! Keeping that in mind, with how well I am doing, all I can say is: "God is good all the time". Can I get an AMEN?!

When my friends wonder why I can't hang with them like I used to, I have to remind them that I am still only a few weeks away from a major surgery and still have to take it easy. They keep forgetting is their usual reply.

Today I did get weighed. I went to my PCP to discuss birth control options. She was so pleased that I had had the surgery and that it went well. She hugged me and was amazed at the weight loss. DRUM ROLL PLEASE... I lost another 18.5 pounds for a total of 37 pounds. That's in four weeks ya'll! 4 weeks! And since I was on my menses, I am assuming that I probably was slightly bloated. So I am unofficially saying I have lost 40 pounds!

This tool works and is a definite blessing! You have to be committed to changing your lifestyle, your eating habits, and to taking your vitamins! For the rest of your life! That’s a long time! If you are considering this surgery, make sure that you can make this commitment. If you have already had the surgery and are struggling, make a recommitment. I am trying to do the right thing now so it will become embedded in my life, my mind, and my spirit.

I have had to retire two pair of pants. They just looked too awful to wear – baggy, baggy, baggy. I tried on two formal dresses that before Dec. 13th, 2004 I could not get into. One, I wore in a friend’s wedding three years ago, the other in a concert four year ago. Well yesterday evening I will have you know that I got into both of them with room to spare! I was extra adventurous and tried on the dress that I wore to my class reunion in 1996. It was a little snug, but I got into it. With the proper undergarments, I could get away with wearing it! LOL! I felt so good last night, you wouldn’t believe it.

I am on a mission for my Jan 27th appointment. I want to be out of the 300’s. That means I need to loose 24 pounds. I am going to start an exercise routine next week and make sure I increase my protein and water intake. I’ve been struggling to get it all in – still adjusting to my new plumbing you know.

Anyway, I guess I’ve updated enough. Be blessed…








January 27, 2005
6 weeks out and feeling fine!

Well I said that I would update after my Dr’s appointment. I am not as pleased as I hoped to be, but all is still fine.

My weight is 321, which is a far cry from my being in the 200’s! This looks like a only 2 pound weight loss since my 4 week weigh in. Mind you, I went to my PCP, not my surgeon on the 13th. Meaning different scales were used. Conclusion: 1.) either my PCP’s scale and my surgeon’s scale don’t match, or 2.) I only loss a measly 2 pounds in two weeks! I am going to fall on my 1st conclusion. That’s why I only want to be weighed at my surgeon’s office for consistency. From this point on, that will be the only weight loss I report, unless I find another reliable way to be weighed and I know it agrees with my surgeon’s scale.

Any how…I am still pleased with my weight loss. 39 pounds in 6 weeks is nothing to sneeze at. My surgeon said that I am doing great and losing at a good great. He does not want me to loose to fast, because he said that means you loose other things as well, such as too much protein, etc…

We agreed that my target weight is 200 pounds. He said is will probably take between 15 – 18 months to reach this weight. Because my intestines were 4 feet longer than average, he left my common channel a little longer. He stated that this also helps to alleviate diarrhea, smelly BMs, and other issues.

I still have not begun an exercise regimen yet. I ordered the Winsor Pilates CD’s, which I am waiting to arrive. I will start going to the gym the 2nd week of February as well.

I take my vitamins daily. They are as follows: 2-One a Day Women’s Multi Vitamin; 2 Water Soluble A & D Vitamins; and 3 Calcium Caltrate pills.

I am getting in about 50 ozs. of water daily and work to increase this daily. I have discovered a wonderful sparkling kiwi strawberry water by Market Pantry (Target), so this should help me to increase my water intake.

I eat at least three meals a day, with lunch being the most satisfying. I am hooked on Smart Ones and Life Choice frozen meals. They are tasty and fulfilling. I no longer like bread, and rarely eat it. For some reason I am scared of rice. The sight of it makes me feel as if my system will not tolerate it, so I leave it alone! I had steak last Sunday- it was good and my system tolerated it! Yeah! Even though I could only eat a few bites. The wonderful thing about this DS surgery is that if I have a taste for something, I have a little bit of it. Then I don’t want it anymore! This is a wonderful feeling! I eat anything I want, but only in small portions and get totally satisfied and FULL. I was not a heavy sweet eater pre-op, so this has not been a problem. I did used to love Reese’s PB cups, but have not even craved one.

About the Pepsi, on my 6-week anniversary, I told myself, “treat yourself to a Pepsi, a regular one”. I went to the vending machine at work and don’t you know that my finger went to the Diet Pepsi button. I had convinced myself not to tempt myself with my bad old habits, and my mind followed this time. I drank about ½ of the Diet Pepsi, and have not wanted any since.

Emotionally I feel like I am doing better. No regrets, no questions as to what have I done to myself. Maybe my hormones are getting back to normal.

Before ending, I just to say to my husband that “I love you deeply”. He was totally against me having this surgery, but he has been so supportive and so loving lately. I really appreciate all that you do for me and our little one.

For those considering this surgery, I can only speak for myself, but it was well worth it! I wish you the best in your journey.

In the words of gospel great Martha Munizzi, “your latter will be greater than your past…”








February 15, 2005
Happy Valentine’s Day to you and Happy Anniversary to me!

Hello all! Yes, it’s my anniversary again and time for my monthly update. So I don’t keep you wondering…drum roll please…I am officially down 51 pounds!!!! That is only 9 pounds from being out of the 300s. How cool is that?

Now for the details…
Two months out, and I am still doing great! I feel better and from the comments, look better!

What can I tell you since I last updated?…

EATING - this is still a chore to me. Never thought I would feel this way about food, but I do. It still takes too much thought for me. After I finally decide what to eat, I still have to concentrate on eating slowly and chewing my food up so it doesn’t take quite the same. Good thing is I still have been able to tolerate everything that I have eaten. That is the beauty of this surgery, especially the Duodenal Switch (DS), no fear of dumping!

Some of my favorite food choices:

-Smart One Meals – These are great for lunch. They are tasty and I can almost eat the whole thing, so there is little to no waste.

-Life Choice Meals – These are also good for lunch, but because of the portion size, I waste some of this meal. I don’t know if they reheat well. My stomach did not like the turkey. It just kind of sat there for a while – like a rock!

-Pepsi Edge – Yes, I can have carbonation, in small quantities. (Another benefit of the DS!) The taste is way better than diet and is still ½ of the sugar.

-Fish Nibblers (at White Castle’s) – These are not always available, but these bite size pieces of fish with tartar sauce are scrumptious. A small order is way too much, but these do reheat well.

The best part of eating now is that I save soooooo much money. My average lunch bill has gone from $10.00 to $2.00/day. When my daughter and I go out to eat, we split a meal. She is 6 years old, and eats more than I do now! (Her birthday was on the 2nd! Happy B-day baby!). She wanted to go to the Outback for her birthday dinner. I ordered the kiddie steak, and could not finish it all.

Funny eating story this month: For Valentine’s Day, my DH took me to a steak house for dinner (can you tell we love steak in my family). First I asked for a kiddie menu, which they didn’t have. Then I asked about an appetizer that I though could serve as my dinner. It wasn’t what I thought it was, so that didn’t work. Then I asked my DH could I eat off his plate. He said “no”, then added “I could have taken you to McDonald’s and saved me some money”. We laughed, and I settled for the surf & turf, which came with two lobster tails and a 10 oz steak. Needless to say that I did not eat all the food, but had a great doggie bag for the next day! He beat me to my leftover steak, but I chowed down on the lobster tail!

EXERCISE – I finally got my Winsor Pilates DVD in the mail last week. I prepared to do them and my daughter laid on my bed, as I was on the floor. I watched the intro, etc. and prepared to do the 20-minute workout. It did not take long for me to stop the insanity and just starting watching as these “little” women did these amazing things with their bodies. I immediately thought “I need to loose another 50 pounds before I can do these exercises”. Well finally my daughter said, “Mommy, aren’t you supposed to be doing the exercises.” I told her to be quiet before I sent her to her room!!! LOL!!! I made a half-hearted attempt and called it a night. Well, this week, I have done them twice. My body is feeling it, but I feel good that I have not given up! My goal is to do the 20-minute workout 3 times a week, and to do some type of cardio 3 times a week. I still have not paid my darn gym bill, so I can’t get to my beloved elliptical machine. I asked DH to buy me one for my birthday. We will see. Until I can get back to the gym, I am going to do Taebo for cardio.

EMOTIONAL – Emotionally, I feel like I am becoming more stable. I went to my first support group last week, and it was nice. I do not have some of the emotional things going on as a lot of people expressed in group and on this website. I never “blended into the crowd” or felt “less than” because of my weight, so I don’t have those issues, but my hormones were definitely doing something weird. I can’t really explain it, but you know how you know when something is not right with you? That’s how I was feeling, but I think I am coming out of that for now.

Weight stats:
I am down 51 pounds in 8 weeks.
I have lost about a total of 27 inches.
I have gone from a size 28-30 to a solid 24.
My shoes are getting too big.
My knees no longer hurt or pop when I get up.
My twins (breasts) are drooping, and I do not like this at all.

All I can say is that for me – this was one of the best decisions I have made in my life! I am totally satisfied, with no buyer’s remorse!

This tool is awesome, and God is even more awesome!

Until next time…







March 13, 2005
Happy 3 month anniversary to me!

…and happy wedding anniversary to me and DH on March 16th – 9 wonderful years!!

Well it’s time for my monthly update. I had my 3 month check-up on March 10th and guess what you all. I am down 66.8 pounds – 15 .7 pounds down from last month. And the best thing of all…I AM IN THE 200s for the first time in a long time – 293.2 to be exact! And to top it all off, I am no longer super morbidly obese, I am only morbidly obese! I stated it before, but this tool is the bomb!

I am preparing to go away for my anniversary so I don’t have a lot of time to journal, but just know, that if you are considering this surgery, I am a living testimony that it works! I feel great, I am starting to look even greater, and I DO NOT regret my decision to have this surgery at all!

Peace and love…








April 13, 2005
Happy 4 month anniversary and happy belated birthday to me!!!!!

Well, where do I start? I have so much to say in this monthly update. I didn’t get to update much during my last entry, so I will make up for it here.

This journey has been a blast! Here I sit 4 months out amazed at what has happened to me, how my life is changing, and all the things that go along with the changes!

I took my nice trip out to my Dr’s office for my monthly weigh in. I am down 84 pounds! That is 84 pounds in 4 short months!!!!! I cannot believe it. I felt tears well up in my eyes as I did the math. I have lost 10 more inches this month, for a total of 57 inches over my entire body.

I celebrated my birthday on April 9th! What a wonderful weekend I had and what a great gift for me – 84 pounds of fat gone forever!

Let me try to organize my thoughts as not to rumble…

WEIGHING-IN
If I can offer any advice to those in the pre-op stage it is: DO NOT become obsessed with weighing yourself daily after the surgery. At 4 months, I still do not have a scale in my house. My Dr’s office is about 45 minutes away, and yes, I talk my drive every month to let his staff weigh me in! This has been the best thing for me. I do not know when I am on a plateau. I do not know when I have gained a pound or only lost one pound. I do not fret over these things because at the end of the month, you are most likely to see a difference! I watch people on the message boards agonize over these things, and I have not had to deal with these frustrations. Since I never got started weighing more than once a month, I do not feel like I am missing anything. If you must weigh more frequently, I would suggest only once a week. Please remember this. It will help you maintain your sanity in the future! It has for me anyway! At some point, I am sure I will buy a scale, but early on is not the time.

CONCERNS
I have been blessed to not have any major problems since my surgery! Thank you Jesus! There are some things that I have noticed however, so I will share these with you:

-Hair loss: about a month ago, my hair started coming out – pretty badly also. At first I thought it was because I started taking the depo shot, but I think it is more likely related to my surgery. I told my hairdresser about it and she said she would monitor it. I had just started letting my hair grow out, but since it started coming out, I just cut it again. I got it highlighted as well. It’s pretty becoming if I don’t say so myself. Check out my pictures.

-Sex drive: this comes and goes. I don’t know if it is surgery related, but I didn’t have this issue prior to the surgery (the going part that is). So as not to neglect my DH, I still try to take care of business on a regular basis, but most the time, I just “ain’t” feeling it!

-Food issues: How do I describe this…I don’t miss any particular food, but I get frustrated at the limited amount of food that I can eat. For example, I had a McDonald’s nugget happy meal one day. I ate 3 nuggets and about 5 fries and was stuffed. I immediately thought, “dang, I can’t even eat four nuggets?” I was pretty bummed out about it. Why, I don’t know. I also find myself looking at other people’s plates and thinking, “you are going to eat ALL of that?” I never say anything out loud because it seems like just yesterday, that I was eating all that! LOL!

I love my duodenal switch, because I can eat anything that I have a taste for…just a little bit of it though. The one thing I don’t tolerate well is white rice. It just does not sit well with me. I still have no craving for most white carbs, including bread. I went to Red Lobster for my birthday dinner with DH and did not even eat one garlic butter biscuit. I didn’t even want one! I used to kill at least 3 or 4 of those in one sitting. He made up for it though! He ate his share and mine!

SHOPPING
As if I need any help in this area. I was pretty much refusing to do any shopping for new clothes. But two things prompted me: 1. my friends told me that I could not go out with them anymore wearing my too baggy clothes, and 2. one day I was walking to my car, and my pants started to fall down. I caught them before I exposed my goodies! So I slowly but surely have begun buying some clothes, at least a few staples like black pants and a new jacket. I even bought two new swimsuits. I have some clothes in lay-a-way for my Vegas trip next week. I figure by using lay-a-way, I could exchange them immediately if they a too big when I pick them up. I am now down to a solid 22! I even have 2 denim skirts in the lay-a-way that are a size 18. They are stretch material though! LOL! I have always felt good about myself, but then last few times I have been in the fitting room, I have felt tremendous. If they have people watching you behind the mirror, I know they think I am crazy, because I was blowing kisses and everything at myself!!!!!

COMPLIMENTS
These babies are flowing left and right! My head is already pretty big, so I am trying to stay as grounded as possible. LOL! My friends, family, and strangers are all taking notice and complimenting. I have had a couple of hater remarks, but I let them roll off me like the pounds!

BODY TEMPERATURE
Oh my goodness! I stay COLD all the time now. I live in Michigan, so of course we get cold weather here. I have a hard time with heating up. I mean I have the shivers, inside and outside. I guess without my extra blubber, my body has a hard time keeping warm. I have to sleep with socks on and everything. At least it is starting to warm up here, so I hope this gets better in the spring/summer time. Who would have "thunk" it???? :-)

Well, I will wind this up. Can you tell I am feeling good? Can you tell this was a great decision for me? For those in the beginning process, I wish you well. This is a fun trip. For those who have been on the journey for a while, let’s continue to work this tool…or should I say…gift from God!

Until next time...




My birthday celebration. I look like a big baller, shot caller... (PS- No, I didn't drink ALL of the wine, and I only took a couple of puffs of the cigar. I hate smoke! That darn peer pressure!)




May 16, 2005!
It's my 5-month anniversary!

Well it’s my 5-month anniversary and where do I start? Since I only update monthly, it’s hard for me to know what’s important to share and what would appear as rambling, but here I go:

On Friday, my actual anniversary, I took my monthly trip out to my Dr’s office for my monthly weigh-in, only to get way out there, fighting the construction and the detours, to be reminded that the entire office is closed on Fridays. I wanted to call him at home and tell him to bring his tail up to the office so I can weigh-in. OOOOHHHH, I was steaming! So any way you all should know how I am about my weigh-ins, so I went all the way back to the Dr’s office today to get weighed in. DRUM ROLL PLEASE…I am down 98 pounds! 2 pounds short from 100, but that’s my 6-month goal anyway. I am soooooooo excited I do not know what to do! If you count my weight at my initial consultation, I am down 101 pounds; but I am only keeping record from the weight at my surgery.

Last month I listed some concerns with this surgery. Here is a brief update:

HAIR LOSS
My hair is still shedding and thinning. My hair stylist said that I do not have and bald spots, but that it is definitely thinning around the sides and edges. Since I have my hair cut short, she is still just monitoring it and giving me hot oil treatments. There are varying opinions on hair loss on the message boards as well as my support group. You will hear everything from get in all your protein and you won’t experience this --- to use biotin ---to there is nothing you can do about it once it starts. I am going with the there is pretty much nothing you can do about it theory. Since this is my only real side effect, I will deal with this. I’d rather be bald-headed and thinner than fat with a lot of hair! LOL! Plus, I am not above weaves! I’ve had them in the past and will go back if necessary!

SEX DRIVE
Who cares since I am steaming at my so-called DH (the “D” stands for damn this month)!

FOOD ISSUES
None! I feel like I am able to eat a little more lately and I feel as if my taste buds are getting back to normal. Food is starting to taste better to me. Not that it was nasty, but it just didn’t taste the same. This month I was craving Mexican food and had Botannas (something like nachos supreme) on several occasions, with the jalapeno peppers and all! Yummy!

On to the good…

-I have rejoined my gym and am working out 3 times a week. I am also doing Pilates at home 3 times a week. I keep a dumbbell in the bathroom to work on these forming bat wings. And you know how often we visit the bathroom, so my arms get a workout at least once a day.

-I have lost another 8 inches this month for a total of 65 inches gone!

-I have dropped to sizes 18 – 22 depending on what it is. I bought a belt two months ago that is a size 22, and I am nearly half-way though the belt loops already.

-My Vegas trip: Why is this important you may ask? Let me tell you! The last time I was in Vegas was in July 2004 for my Sorority convention. I was so miserable in the heat and with my weight, that I could barely walk from hotel to hotel and did not want to do too much of anything. Well this time, I fit in the airplane seat, I did not need and extension for the seat belt, and I stayed at the front of the pack! I mean we walked, and walked, and I could hang with my “skinny” friends. We went to clubs, I danced, and I had a ball! Now don’t get me wrong, I have always had a social life, but it is getting better and better and so much easier to hang out without all the extra poundage! (See my pictures on Picture trial to see just how much fun we had)!

-Please see an update on my goals right above my January 13, 2005 entry! I have made some progress on these! Next month, since it will be my 6-month anniversary, I think I will make some new goals.

On a sadder note, my granny died at the end of April. She was my mother’s mother and my only living grandparent. She lived a long-life. She was 85 years old and she did not suffer long. I know she is in a better place and out of pain. Please keep my mother and family in your prayers.

Granny – I dedicate this journal entry to your memory! Sleep well and I’ll see you in heaven!

Peace, until next time…







June 12, 2005
Happy 6-month anniversary to me…

Well you guys, my 6-month anniversary is tomorrow, and I had my 6-month check-up on Thursday, June 9th.

When I went to the Dr., I got on the scale with my eyes closed. When I opened them, to my disbelief and joy, the scale read 249. That’s right; I finally hit the century club, plus some. I am down 111 pounds in 6 short and glorious months!!! I only have 49 more pounds to go to reach my goal of 200 pounds!!!!

They took my blood work and Dr. Mac did a brief physical on me. He said I looked fine and seem to be doing fine. If I hear anything about my blood work that is not good, I will let you all know.

As usual, I don’t know where to start with things that may be of interest to you all. So here I go:

ISSUES:

Hair loss: this still continues, but I have not developed any bald spots. My hair just sheds all over the place. I just keep it short and keep monitoring it.

Feeling faint: this is a new one; but on two occasions, I felt as if I was overheating and about to pass out. I got really light-headed and woozy feeling and had to sit down immediately. Both episodes occurred while singing; once at church, and once in my nephew’s studio. I was hot on both occasions. At church, I had to step off the stage, sit to the side, take my robe off, and drink some water. At my nephew’s, I left the room, laid on the couch, and drank some Gatorade. I felt sooooo bad. Both times the feeling passed in about 15 minutes. I know after WLS we tend to blame all illnesses on the surgery, when they may not be related to WLS, but to be on the safe side, I brought it up to my Dr. He stated that it was probably related to my blood sugar. My blood sugar was very low before surgery. He said it is not uncommon to experience problems with blood sugar levels while loosing weight. He will check my levels when my blood work comes back. He did tell me to keep some an emergency stash of candy or something, because if it happens again, I should eat a piece and see what happens.

Clothes: I don’t have any and it is very frustrating. Though I am grateful for my tremendous weight loss, I had a ton of clothes! I mean a ton; and now nothing fits! I gave away two big bags of clothes to different people. That felt really good, especially since I know they will appreciate them, but now I have very few things to wear. I refuse to spend a lot of money on clothes that will be too big in a matter of weeks. Some wonderful people on BAF have graciously agreed to send me some of there old clothes. They are so great on BAF, as well as some of the other message boards! I also have to change my mind set and get to shopping at resale shops, and places like Walmart and K-mart. I was never able to fit there clothes, but now that I can, I have to get used to it!

Self-image: I am a social worker with a master’s degree, so this is a hard one for me to deal with. Those post-op will know exactly what I am talking about, those pre-op, know that you will probably experience this as well. I DO NOT KNOW WHAT I LOOK LIKE! I know that I am smaller, I can see the changes in my face, but I do not know what I look like size-wise. One day while out with my husband, I asked “am I bigger or smaller than her”. I asked twice and both times he said I was smaller than who I had picked out. He was like “why do you keep asking that?” I told him, but he didn’t seem to understand. So now I ask one of my girlfriends. The times I have asked her, she too has told me that I am smaller than the people I have picked out. Because I am so tall, people think I wear a size 16 or I have even heard 14 – that’s right now, but I am actually in a size 18/20. This is a trip! I see the pictures, but I have no clue as to what I look like in person. If people already think I wear a 16 or 14, which is my goal, I am scared to think what I would look like when I actually reach goal. And I shudder to think if I fall below goal! Oh the problems caused by this wonderful surgery! LOL!

POSITIVES:

Comments: I just have to share some of the comments that people have said. These are considered my WOW moments:

- “Oh, my God, I can’t believe how young you look! You look just like you did in high school.” (mind you that was almost 20 years ago!)
- “Don’t think I am gay, but I just can’t believe how pretty you are and I can’t stop looking at you.” (from a choir member during rehearsal)
- “Girl, what size are you now, a 14?” (from someone considering WLS)
- As a group of young boys walked by me, (they couldn’t have been more than 20) – one said “Oooh, I just love them tall like that”. (you see the usual comment from interested guys would be – “I love big girls” or “I like them thick like you”.) This guy didn’t even mention size, he mentioned my height! I could have ran up to him and kissed him, but he might have gotten the wrong impression! LOL
- “L is that you? Wait a minute, let me sit down!”
- “Auntie, you getting so skinny!”
- “I don’t even view you as big-boned anymore.” (this was in response to me calling myself big-boned! – Thanks DF!)
- Not a comment, but I walked into a hospital room to visit a friend. When I walked in, her nurse came in at the same time. I walked on the other side of her bed; she was facing the opposite way. Her nurse did something and walked out. After she walked out, I said “hey girl”. She was like “who is that”, so I walked around to where she could see me. She just laughed because she thought I was another nurse. She was thinking “who is this lady behind me and what is she doing?” She didn’t even recognize me when I walked in!
- “Girl you look so beautiful, not that you weren’t beautiful before, but it is no longer hidden. You look just like you did when you were a child.”
- “For you to have lost so much weight, your skin ain’t even flabby”.

Now to take the opportunity to share some hater comments (I don’t mind these either because some people just don’t know what to say):

- “Oh, I can really see the weight loss in your face.” (it’s the tone in which they say this one that irritates me.)
- …and from my DH “ugh, you are flat-chested now.” (mind you I still wear a D cup.)

When people haven’t seen me in a while, they just keep staring. I get really self-conscious! I want to be like “stop looking at me”. But it is also so incredibly flattering. I also get a little irritated when people just keep saying over and over “you just look so good” or “you are so pretty”. I’m like dang, was I a dog before? My friend explained to me that people don’t mean harm by that, and they are not necessarily talking about my looks only, but the total package now. I’ll buy that for now.

Eating: Food is starting to taste better to me each month! That’s a good thing! I also notice that I am able to eat a little more now. I know that was going to happen, but I really don’t like it. I feel like I have to be more cautious now again. For example, I could only eat about ¼ to ½ of a fish sandwich with no bottom bun from McDonald’s in the beginning, yesterday, I ate ¾ of a fish sandwich with both buns.

I am also regaining my taste for bread. Darn it! I liked not wanting to eat bread. I still don’t eat a lot of it, but I have a taste for it more now.

I am getting more water in now. Since it is getting hot outside, I actual want it more!

Exercise: I am going to the gym twice a week – doing 30-35 minutes of cardio on the elliptical machine and working to heck out of these arms. To me, of all the potential excess skin issues, that’s my potential problem area. But I am doing everything I can to work on them.

I do Winsor pilates 3 times a week at home. This works on the abs, thighs, and buttocks as well. I have some excess “skin handles” on my thighs that are very ugly, but a good girdle takes care of that!

My husband put a bike in the lay-away for me. I can’t wait until he gets it out, so I can start going bike riding with my daughter. I have to get her off those dratted training wheels first, so she can hang with me! LOL

My skin seems to have good elasticity in it still. Besides, my arms, I think I will be OK. Even my stomach is not that bad. I really want to avoid plastic surgery, so hopefully working out and my elasticity will help me with that goal. Oh I forgot – I don’t know about “the girls” or “my twins” as I like to call them. They are getting pretty low, but Lane Bryant has some wonderful bras, that lifts and separates! Only time will tell! My surgeon says don’t even think about plastic surgery until you are 2 years out and stable!

My angel and others: Through this site, I have met some wonderful people. I even have an angel! Her surgery is coming up on June 27th. Please go to her surgery page on show your support at: http://www.obesityhelp.com/morbidobesity/profile.phtml?N=L1105696808
I am so happy for you Dee. This is a wonderful journey. I can’t wait until you join me on the loosing side. Shout out to BAF, the December 2004 message board, and the DS forum! I love you all. I love all the support and understanding!

What’s next for me? Continued weight loss! I only have 49 more pounds to go before I reach goal. I know it may take up to another 9 months to reach it, but I want to be almost there by the end of the year. We’ll see?! I have also decided to go back to school in the fall to get a post-graduate certificate in social work practice with families and couples. I want to open a practice that specializes in pre-martial counseling, counseling for those contemplating divorce, and guess what else – weight loss issues and support groups. I don’t yet know how that fits in, but I definitely want to do it. I think with WLS becoming so popular, more expertise is needed in this area, and who better to become an expert than someone who has lived through it. We all know that just because you lose weight, if you had emotional issues before the surgery, they don’t go away; they usually get worse! I want to help people through this!

I also want to take some time to acknowledge my nephew. He graduated on June 7th from Wayne State University’s school of medicine! We have a doctor in the family now! I am so proud of him I don’t know what to do. I dedicate this entry to him!

Go Pistons! Beat the Spurs!

Until next time…







June 26, 2005

I am dedicating this post to my angelette DL whose surgery is tomorrow morning. Dee here is praying that your surgery and recovery is successful and without event! I pray the God guides Dr. Mac's hands and his mind. I pray for the nurses and all that will come into contact with you during the procedure. I pray that your family has the strength needed to support you on this journey. I pray you get your hearts desire after having this surgery. It has been a wonderful ride for me, and I pray the same for you. In Jesus' name, AMEN!




My new hair do. I got this style on June 14th! What do you think?




July 14, 2005
Happy 7 Month anniversary to me!

Just a quick update for this month! I am in total amazement and give God all the glory for allowing me to make the decision to have this surgery. I thank Him for bringing me through the surgery with no incidents. I thank Him for the progress He has seen me through.

With that said, I am down another 10 pounds this month, for a total of 121 pounds gone off of my body forever! My new weight is 239, and I am 39 pounds from my goal! All in 7 short months!
Again I say, God is good!

I have lost a total of 88.5 inches over my total body! What an amazing thing! I have gone from a size 28/30 to a 18/20. I have lost one shoe size and my BMI has gone from 49 to 32.4! I am merely obese now, down from super mordibly obese! All in 7 short months. Again I say, God is good!

My angelette, DL, has begun her journey! She came through her surgery with flying colors, and is down 20 pounds in two weeks. My second angelette, Kelly will begin her journey in a few days on July 18, 2005. Please go to her page of show her support at: http://www.obesityhelp.com/morbidobesity/status.phtml?N=R1102958675.
My third angelette, Dionne has just received her pre-approval for her surgery which is scheduled on September 19, 2005. This is a wonderful journey, and I vow to help as many along as I can!

I have met many wonderful people on this journey. People who didn't know me from a stranger have reached out to me. Thanks Dolphin DeeDee for the clothes! You are a God send. Thanks you to all my message board families: DS forum, BAF, and December group for your prayers, words of encourgement, and just being there to lend an ear.

I have to run and take DH to drop his truck off at the shop, so I'll update more later.

Again I say, God is good!







Another new hair do for me - "kinky twists". I am feeling very ethnic! It's great for working out!




July 17, 2005
I dedicate this entry to my second angellete, Kelly (Covergirl), whose surgery is tomorrow morning. May God bless you during this surgery. May He guide the hands of your surgeon and all of the people who will have a part in this surgery. May it be uneventful and successful! May your pain be minimal and your recovery speedy. In Jesus' Name, AMEN!



August 10, 2005
Happy Anniversary to me! Again??!??! Already!?!?!!

It is funny how time flies on this journey. I am two days away from my 8 month anniversary on this wonderful journey. I am posting early as my family reunion is this weekend and I will not get a chance to post on my actual anniversary, so here I go…

I have been very busy on a project at work, so I have not been able to post on the boards and keep up with what’s going on and that has been very disappointing to me. The project is now over so hopefully, I can get back in the swing of things.

Well, I made my monthly trip to my Dr’s office to weigh-in. I am down another 10 pounds this month for a total loss of 131 pounds!!!! All this in 8 short months! I am now only 29 pounds from my goal weight of 200 pounds!

Now for the update:

EXERCISE
Again, due to my work, I have been unable to get to the gym at all since July 5th. I have not even been able to do my Pilates tape at home. I really feel awful and am so sluggish now. I go on a family vacation next week. The resort has a wellness complex, so I am back on it next week! My project is over so no more excuses! I am still amazed that I lost 10 pounds without stepping foot in the gym, but I feel that my skin is way too flabby. That’s where the working out helps!

ISSUES
Besides feeling the effects of not working out, I feel great. I only have two issues:

Pain- I have been getting this really sharp pain in my stomach. It usually occurs during the middle of the night after sleeping on my stomach or side too long. It occurs right in the middle of my stomach, where my incision is and only lasts about a minute or two, but it really hurts. I keep forgetting to mention it to my Dr, and will do so soon.

Bowel movements/gas- These are starting to get on my last nerves. It seems like I have BM’s about four times a day. Some are very loose and explosive. I know it is tied to what I eat, but besides dairy and corn, I have not determined what makes them so bad. I try to stay away from dairy, but sometimes there is nothing better than a glass of milk or a small bowl of ice cream. I just know I will pay a price for such indulgence :-) My gas is soooo awful. Sometimes I can’t stand myself! I try to keep matches with me at all times. Matches are the best natural air freshener just in case you didn’t know. The strike of a match or two kills smells pretty effectively!

These issues DO NOT overweigh the success that I have had with this surgery! Still no regrets! NONE!

OTHER
We had a Detroit area Meet-n-Greet from my BAF family in July. We had a great time! We met for dinner and went to a club afterwards. We were supposed to go on a lunch cruise the next day, but the weather messed that up! It was a pleasure to meet all those who came out! The pictures are on my Picture Trial.

My funniest WOW moment for the month: I am on the board of a small organization. I had been on leave of absence since February. Well on this past Monday, I went to my first meeting since February. As I went to hug a fellow board member, she instead reached out her hand to introduce herself to me!!! She did not even know who I was. I was like “it’s me, L!” She was so embarrassed, she started turning red! She could not believe my transformation!

Shout outs to my angelettes: two on the losing side- DL on Covergirl, one on her way – Dionne. I love you all and am in your corner.

Until next time...







September 12, 2005
9 Month Anniversary!

Well, it’s my nine-month anniversary eve and I sit here reflecting on a major decision I made over a year ago – to have the Duodenal Switch (DS) gastric bypass! I re-read my profile and I realized I never really explained why I decided to have the DS versus the RNY. Many people have asked me why I made my choice so I will do my best to explain my decision. I do not want to offend anyone who had or is having the RNY, because we all need to make our own decisions, but here I go:

I went into this journey only knowing about the RNY, so that is what I was going to get. All you see on TV is commercials for centers that do the RNY, so I thought that was all there was. Well, while reading someone’s profile, I found out about the DS; being the inquisitive person that I am, I did further research. There is a lot of mis-information out there about the DS. Dr’s are not going to promote something that they do not know how to do. If you go to a Chevrolet dealer, they are not going to tell you about the Lexus dealer down the street.

- The DS is not experimental as insurance companies often state. It has been around for a while and is often confused with an older surgery that is rarely performed anymore.
- It is not only for people with higher BMIs, but it is the preferred surgery for those who have high BMIs.
- It has a high cure rate for those with Type II Diabetes and is sometime performed for that sole purpose.
- There is no possibility for dumping as it is with the RNY. (Some DSers experience something that is similar, but this is the exception).
- The stomach is reduced in size, but left in tact (no pouch for us). This eliminated all problems associated with the pouch and the “rules of the pouch”.

I am trying not to get technical and give statistics and all that, because we all need to do our research for ourselves. You can go to www.duodenalswitch.com for the more detailed information.

I felt that with the DS, I could resume a more normal post-WLS lifestyle. I do not feel like I went to a “cookie cutter” factory, where I am just a number, not an individual with individual needs. I also have never been one to go with the flow. I like to be different and a trendsetter.

I can not stress the need for you to do your research. It amazes me that so many of us had this surgery and did not even know all of our options. But that happens sometimes. I happened upon learning about the DS, and I want to share this option with anyone who will listen. PLEASE DO YOUR RESEARCH, don’t just go with something because your friend, momma, cousin, etc. had it. This needs to be a well-thought out, individual decision.

OK! OK! I’m off my DS soap box. Let me tell you what’s been going on with me:

Drum roll please…I am down another 13 pounds this month, for a total of 144 pounds gone forever! Did ya’ll hear me? 144 pounds in 9 months. I am 16 pounds away from my goal of 200 pounds. I have to face the fact that I am going to fall below my goal more than likely. Big deal you say…I am 6 feet tall, so I felt that 200 pounds would look great on me. People already say I look smaller that I am, so I am a little fearful, but oh well, who would have thought I might loose too much weight? That’s really funny! :-)

At this weight I am wearing a size 14/16. I really skipped right by size 18 and I can barely wear size 16! Let me give you a quick snapshot:

Pre-op size: 28/30 Current size: 14/16
Pre-op weight: 360 Current weight: 216
Pre-op measuremts (B,W,H): Pre-op measuremts (B,W,H): 41.5, 35.5, 43 58, 56.5, 59.5

Total pounds lost: 144
Total inches lost (whole body): 105.5

Let me tell you about two special moments in my journey:
I went to a regular size store: New York and Company. I was walking around the mall right after my last update and happened into the store, to “just see”. I asked the saleslady was size the store went up to. She said 18. Ok, I thought, I can do this. So I went to get a pair of pants, I grabbed an 18 tall, and a cute dress in a size XL. Before I went into the dressing room, I changed the pants to a 16 tall. I walked in the dressing room tried on both items and they fit ya’ll! Tears came to my eyes! I can not remember the last time I was able to go into a regular store and try on clothes. I didn’t buy anything, I was just seeing :-)

Last week, I was going out so I went to look for something to wear. By habit I went to Ashley Stewart, as this has become my favorite store since loosing weight. Besides, I really don’t know what other “regular” stores to go to. I grab some stuff to try on, mainly size 16s. Most of them were too big ya’ll. Not believing this, I went back out a found a size 14T jeans. JEANS, not stretchy, but regular jeans! The jeans FIT. I was so excited; I had to share it with the complete stranger that was in the dressing room next to me! The outfit I bought to wear was a two-piece white gauze skirt and top was also a size 14! God is so good! The sad news is that I am going to have to let Ashley Stewart go, because their clothes will soon be too big – and they have the cutest clothes now! Oh the dilemmas this surgery causes!

My eating is going fine. I am having no problems. I am still able to eat everything that I want, only smaller portions. I have actually increased my carbs because of my large weight loss. I need to try to taper this thing off.

I take my vitamins pretty regularly. I don’t like to take them, but I force myself to. This is something you have to stay committed to. I may miss a day here or there, but that’s it.

I am doing awful with drinking my water. I strive everyday to do better and will continue until I do it consistently! This is also important, and I know better!

I am getting back to the gym tomorrow! My DH and I have made a commitment to get back to the gym and go consistently! Besides, my Dr’s nurse said this will help with my weight, because muscle weighs more than fat, so as I bulk up, my weight loss will taper off. All that work I was doing on my arms was for naught because I have been out of the gym for several months, so I feel like I am starting all over. Who do I have to blame? ME! Shame on me!

I think that is about it. I am ready to call it a night, so I can hit the gym in the morning.

To those considering this surgery, again do your research and be prayerful. For those who have had it – let’s work this tool!

Peace and blessings to all of you…







September 18, 2005

I dedicate this entry to my third angelette, Dionne F. Dionne's surgery is tomorrow AM in Pontiac, MI. Her surgery page is http://www.obesityhelp.com/morbidobesity/members/status.php?N=F1119098159. Dionne- I pray that God works a miracle tomorrow. I pray that He shows up and shows out. I pray that He guides Dr. Mac's hands and mind and that He does the same for each and every person who will be assisting in any kind of way during the surgery. I pray that your surgery and recovery is event-free, successful, and all that you want it to be. I pray that your journey is smooth. I also pray for your family that they have the strength to give you the support that you need. I ask God to bless you in your re-birth! In Jesus' name, AMEN!



October 24, 2005
It’s my anniversary –again!

Funny how time flies, when you are losing weight! I am a little late with my update. I am sorry you guys! I have been very busy with some exciting things that I will tell you about later. But not to keep you in suspense…drum roll please…at 10 months out (I weighed in on Oct. 13th, my actual anniversary) – I am down 158 pounds! That’s right, I said 158 pounds! That is two pounds short of my personal goal on losing 160 pounds! I weigh 202 pounds! I loss 14 more pounds since last month, and I called myself eating more and increasing my carbs! As I discussed last month, I was told that I was going to fall below my goal. I don’t fret over that anymore because there is nothing I can do about it anyway!

What does a 158 pound loss look like? Just think- that’s the weight of a full grown person. Imagine walking around with a person on your back all day and night. Well that is what my life was like before this surgery. I can’t imagine putting one of my friends on my back and walking 1 foot, let alone all the time.

What else does 158 pounds look like? I am wearing a size 12/14. I actually brought a size 12 shirt from Walmart! I was so darn excited! I have also bought a size large top. You have to remember that last year this time, I was wearing a 28/30 or size 4X – a mere year ago!

Things I have done over the past month:

-I threw out all my big ole’ panties! I finally couldn’t take it any more. I like to wear panty girdles for everyday wear and I am still hanging on to some of those. I will have to get rid of those soon. I was wearing a size 14/5XL panty/girdle. I now buy size 8/XL panty/girdle.

-I gave all my big ole’ expensive bras to my mother. I have no boobs now. Well to some, I still do – I am a 42D now, but that’s down from a 46DD. Hubby really isn’t too happy about this! I am not happy about the way these things sag. Lord, my knees and breasts can have a conversation! LOL! If I could stomach the thought of another surgery – breasts lift it would be.

Comments I have heard over the past month:

-“Hey Olive Oil!” (Someone referred to me as Olive Oil. I never would have thought this in a million years.)

-“Girl, what are you now, about a size 8?” (To even think that someone thinks that is amazing.)

Weight loss issues:

BOWEL MOVEMENTS/GAS – Hate it! BMs are not that bad, unless I eat badly. Gas is terrible most of the time. I have to keep matches with me at all times! I am told I can monitor what I eat to control this, but hey, I just deal with it (and those who love me have to deal with it also! LOL!)

SEX DRIVE – Don’t know if it is surgery related, but my drive is still pretty low. I should be swinging from chandeliers, but I just don’t feel it, most of the time.

FOOD ISSUES – None really. My appetite is increasing on some days. Some days I feel like I am eating a lot, but the next day I can’t eat much. Let’s put it in terms we can all related to, when I first had the surgery I could only eat about ¼ of a filet-o-fish sandwich without a piece of the bun, and a couple of fries. Now I can eat about ¾ of the sandwich with both buns and a few more fries. I can tolerate everything that I eat. I am still careful with white rice. I have even increased my carb intake to slow down my weight loss.

I would like to send a shout out to my angelettes – Dee Love, Covergirl, and Dionne. I love ya’ll and can’t wait to hang out with ya’ll this weekend.

Just a brief update on what’s been going on with me personally. My contract with the City of Detroit ended in August. I spent a month doing a lot of soul searching and praying about my purpose in life. I am now embarking on a new endeavor. I am in the process of opening a domestic violence agency in Detroit. This population is grossly underserved, and I felt the need to do something. I am also in training to become a financial advisor with Primerica Financial Services. Both endeavors are going great and God is showing me favor. I know many of you prayed for my during a time that I was interviewing for a college position, but God had other plans for me. Thank you for your prayers then, and I still need them now as I move forward in His will.

Finally, I just want to wish my hubby happy b-day. It was this month! We had a great weekend celebration. He has been so great and supportive of me and I just thank him for that.

I think I have typed enough for now! I hope to have inspired some and encouraged others!

Peace until next time…






November 27, 2005
It's my anniversary…sort of?!?!

OK, OK, so I am a little late for my monthly update! I’ll keep it brief, because in a few weeks will be my one-year anniversary and I will have a very detailed update.

I was not able to get out to my Dr’s office to weigh-in, but I did go to my PCP to get on their scale. For those who have been following my journey, you know I have been pretty serious with weighing in only once a month, and only using the scale at my surgeon’s office. So this month, I am going to report for the first time a weight other than from my surgeon’s office. Since my PCP now has a digital scale, I guess I can trust it!?!?!?

Well, enough for the small talk. Since last month, I am down another 5 pounds for a new weight of 197 pounds! A total weight loss of 163 in 11 months! This is a big deal you see! First of all I am 3 pounds below my goal! Secondly, I am in the 100’s for the first time since I can remember. My personal goal was 200 pounds. At 6 feet tall, I believed this to be a good weight for me. However since I am only 11 months out, I knew I would more than likely fall below my personal goal. The good news is, for the first time since my surgery, I only lost five pounds in a month. I had been averaging about a 13 pound loss a month, so since I only lost 5 pounds last month, I hope the weight loss is tapering off. Who knows where this thing will end up? I just want to continue to look and feel healthy.

I am now a size 12 – 14. Who would have thought I would ever be this size? I can’t remember ever being this size. I just hope that I don’t fall below a size 10!

Well that’s it for now. As I mentioned, I will give a pretty long entry next month for my one year anniversary.

All I can say is no regrets, no regrets, no regrets!!!!

Until next month…






December 13, 2005
One year anniversary!!!!!!!!

I don’t even know where to begin!

Last year this time I was at North Oakland Hospital under the knife having the Duodenal Switch gastric bypass. The surgery lasted about 6 hours and I stayed in the hospital for four nights. Who would have thought what a difference a year would make?

Let me reiterate, unlike some people, my weight did not hinder me from living life to the fullest. I was and am a happy person with my life. I had a great job, a husband and daughter who loved all 360 pounds of me, and family and friends who accepted me as I was. I had a great social life!
But, my knees and back were always hurting and I was fed up with being fat.

It really happened all of a sudden. I was not one of those people who complained about my weight. I had pretty much accepted the fact that I would always be “fluffy” as I called it. I had not yo-yo dieted for years. I was content – at least I thought. Besides, I was still cute –right?

It took my overhearing a conversation of a co-worker in November 2003 for the fire to ignite in me. She was a recent post-op who had the RNY. I did not like being heavy anymore. I wanted to be able to run and play with my then 4 year old daughter. I didn’t want to feel tired and winded all the time. I didn’t want to be “fluffy” any more.

I watched this co-worker over the next few months, she referred my to this sight, and my journey began! After reading about the RNY and some of the complications or issues, I was not quite convinced that I wanted to live the rest of my life with those possibilities. I read a profile of someone (I wish I remember who) that changed my life. She talked of another option – the duodenal switch (DS). I researched this surgery and knew this was the one for me. You don’t hear about the DS often because it is not the most popular of the surgeries, but to me there were fewer possibilities/side effects for me to worry about. And besides, I have never been one to follow the crowd.

Needless to say, I found a wonderful surgeon and after an initial denial, I was approved for surgery in November 2004 and was officially “switched” on Dec. 13, 2004. In a nutshell, all I can say is that I DO NOT have one single regret. Not one!

Fast forward a year later, here are the comparisons:

Height: 6 feet
Original Personal weight goal: 200
Beginning/current weight: 360 / 192 pounds
Beginning/current BMI: 48.8 (extremely obese) / 26 (moderately overweight)
Beginning/current clothes size: 28 – 30 / 12 – 14
Beginning/current shoe size: 13 W / 11W
Beginning/current measurements:
Neck 17 / 13
Chest 49 / 34
Breasts 58 / 38
Waist 56.5 / 34
Hips 59.5 / 40.5
Thighs 28 / 21
Calves 17 / 13
Arms 17 / 11

Summary:
Total weight loss – 168
Total inches loss (all over body) – 120
Total clothes sizes dropped – 9

My personal goal was to loose 160 pounds to get to 200 pounds. I have exceeded my goal by 8 pounds on my one year anniversary, and am still losing. I didn’t like that thought at first, but there is nothing I can do about it, so I might as well accept it. Besides, it is quite nice being in ONEderland! I just pray that I don’t fall below a size 10 or under 180 pounds. If I get to 180 pounds, I will have “halfed” myself! That is so funny to me. I am close to one half of my old self.

I had made some goals early in my journey. Let me re-cap on them now:
*Goal #1: To have a successful surgery and come to the losing side. (DONE-12/13th)

*Goal #2: To have lost at least 25 pounds by the end of 2004. (DONE- officially weighed on 1/13, down 37 pounds)

*Goal #3: When I go to Vegas on February for my Sands b-day (ooo-oop), to not need a seatbelt extension. (Trip was cancelled until April - DONE April 21st - went to Vegas was able to close the seat belt and even had to tighten it [OK only about 3 inches, but still...])

*Goal #4: For my 9th Wedding Anniversary in March, to buy a sexy dress in a size 20 or less. (Didn't buy a dress, but was a size 22/24. Looking back this goal was unrealistic.)

*Goal #5: For my 37th Birthday in April, to buy a sexy outfit in a size 18 or less and be under the 300 mark. (Size goal - was unrealistic, but I can wear a 22, some 18/20 depending on material; Be under 300 mark - DONE 3/10/05: 293.2; on my birthday I was about 276 pounds)

*Goal #6: By my 6th month post-op anniversary to be at or darn near at the 100 pound loss mark. I want to be in the Century Club! (DONE – June 12th; I was down 111 pounds)

*Goal #7: To not feel like I have to use the handicapped bathroom in public. (DONE – I don’t know exactly when it happened, but I still just prefer the handicapped bathroom because of habit, but I can definitely fit in the regular stalls.)

*Goal #8: To not have marks on my thighs from squeezing in the seats at the sports arena or the theater. (DONE- April 30th, went to the Fox Theater and my hips did not even touch the sides of the seat!)

*Goal #9: To not have to put a girdle on top of sheer stockings to keep them up! LOL! (DONE- April 21st. Stocking up, with room to spare!)

*Goal #10: To not be scared to sit in one of those plastic lawn chairs that everyone has in their backyards for fear of cracking it to pieces. (DONE, but I still think twice about sitting in these :-))

*Goal #11: To fit into any ride that I desire at the amusement park. (I have not been to an amusement park since my weight loss, but will go in February to Disney World. I know I can fit in the rides though.)

What is life like now, what issues do I have, what light can I shred? Glad you asked – here I go:

LIFE NOW:
* It was great then, it is better now.
* I can go in any store to shop for clothes.
* I can and do very often cross my legs.
* People actually call my skinny and slim – and mean it.
* I have to re-introduce myself to people I haven’t seen in a while.
* Men speak a little more freely to me now.
* I feel better physically.
* I don’t mind walking up the stairs.
* My knees and back no longer hurt me.
* I can eat and tolerate anything that I desire and still lose weight!
* I spend much less money on food!

ISSUES:
* I miss shopping at Avenue, Lane Bryant, and Ashley Stewart.
* I have no butt!
* I have very ugly, saggy breasts. (If I were to have plastic surgery, the twins would be the first thing worked on!)
* I do have some loose skin, but nothing I can’t deal with or hide with good undergarments.
* I have little clothes (I went from having three – four closets full of clothes to having one that is no where nearly full).
* I have stinky and frequent gas and bowel movements. This could probably be controlled by changing my diet, but I just keep air freshener and matches handy and deal with it.
* I still have little sex drive. Hormones are still going crazy.
* Sometimes I get upset because I get full before I am ready to stop eating.
* I do have issues with taking my vitamins regularly. I have to work on this on a daily basis.
* I still do not get all my water in. I have to work on this on a daily basis.

WORDS OF WISDOM:
If considering surgery –
* DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH!
*You have to be willing to make lifestyle changes! This is not a magic wand. Yes, I can eat what I want and still lose right now, but it will not always be this way. You have to be able to control what goes in your mouth.
* Understand that you are making a commitment to take vitamins/supplements the rest of your days.
* Make sure your head is in order. If you have issues before the surgery, loosing weight does not deal with that; and in many cases it causes more issues.
* Be prepared to deal with haters from a variety of sources. Thank God this has not been an issue for me!

Now for some shout-outs! I have met some wonderful people on this journey! God brings people in your lives at different times for different reasons and this is no different!

To my husband and daughter – thank you for your unconditional love and support and accepting me when I was fluffy and dealing with me now as I become flat! :-)

To my girls, homies, and Sands (the ones in all my hanging out pictures) – people said you lose friends on this journey. I thank God that I have not experienced this. You all have been right there for me, with very little hating going on. I thank God that you all are confident enough in yourselves to let me do my thing! I know I was already a handful, but I think I have done a good job, and you all have helped me do a good job in keeping myself in check!

To my parents – for your support, encouragement, loan, and always being there for your lil’ (literally now) girl! I love you all more than I can ever express!

To my BAF – thanks for all your support, your comic relief, your advice. Special thanks to Dolphin DeDee who looked out when a sister didn’t have any clothes; Valerie and Joi – for the personal motivation you have given me that you don’t even know about regarding my work dreams and desires; for the many others that do what you do!

Detroit area BAF – much love to the Motor City area Macks! I love the time we spend together! It’s about time to hang out again, ain’t it?

Angelette #1 – DeeLove – much love and respect. You are one of the sweetest people I have met in recent times, and I am so glad that we are a part of each other lives. Let’s continue this journey together. Kiss my baby for me!

Angelette #2 – Covergirl – we don’t talk much, but the prayers of a righteous man, availeth much, and I keep you in my prayers. I am glad to call you my angelette and we will continue to press towards the mark!

Angelette #3 – Dionne – we have known each other for a while, but it is different now. You are my angelette and my lil’ sister and I am glad you have joined this journey with me. Big and Medium Vince better watch out! :-) We are about to turn this motha’ out!

To the Powells (Cricket and Songbird) – our bond will be forever. I am so glad I was in tune with His will to assist you two in the blending of the kingdom. You momma is something special as well. Love ya Lady Di.

Duodenal Switch and December Boards – thank you for all the support, information, and love. I don’t post as often now, but I still pray for all of us continuously. We have been through many things together and I love you all like family!

I just pray that I have touched someone, encouraged someone, or helped someone along the way. This journey has been a blessing to me in so many ways and so many have encouraged me. I just want to return the favor. I appreciate every change in my life because of this surgery.

Last but certainly not least I would like to thank my Father God and His son Jesus Christ for giving me the mind to make this change in my life. I thank Him for guiding me to my surgery type and to my surgeon and for bringing me through the surgery without incident. I thank Him that I have not had one single major problem since having this surgery. No complications! No side effects! No issues that I can’t handle. I thank Him that this will continue to be the case. I pray that if you are on this journey with me, that you are getting everything that you desire from this surgery. If you have had complications, I pray deliverance over those things right now. If you are considering this surgery, I pray that God shows you what it is that He would have for you to do and that He guides your footsteps along the way, and that if you decide to have the surgery that it is successful and your recovery speedy. Now let me go get my praise on!

The best is yet to come…







For unto us a Child is born...May you and your family have a blessed Christmas and a prosperous New Year...from my family in Detroit...




December 14, 2006
Happy Anniversary to me! Two years!

I don’t even know where to begin! It has been two years and 1 day since I started my “revised” life!

Let me first start off by apologizing. I apologize to all of those who I have not gotten to know since I have been absent from this site. Let me tell you all “hello” and give you a brief synopsis of my journey.

On Dec. 13, 2004 I had the Duodenal Switch in Pontiac, MI. I started at 360 pounds. I am 6 feet tall. I am now 194 pounds. I have basically “halved” myself. My lowest weight was 188 and I bounce between 192 and 194. I am totally happy with this!!!! My height and weight works well together. I wear a size 12/14.

Over the year (I last updated on my anniversary last year) some things have changed with me personally. I am still married to my wonderful and supportive (but now a little more jealous) husband of nearly 11 years. My daughter will be 8 in February and I can now keep up with her! I founded and started a new domestic violence agency in Detroit and this is what has kept me away for the site. Unfortunately things are going very well. I say unfortunately because that means that abuse continues to occur in our community at staggering numbers.

My health – it’s good. I had a little bout with swelling for a few months that was related to not absorbing enough protein. I was put on an enzyme and water pills and the problem fixed itself. I have had no other complications. I still get a sharp pain on my incision line every now and then. I still struggle to take my vitamins. I eat very well and eat what I want. I do have issues with milk, but I still have it from time to time. I just feel sorry for those who have to be around me afterwards LOL! I still can clear a room with my deadly gas! Lord have mercy, sometimes I can’t stand myself!!!!! To put my eating in perspective, I can nearly finish a filet of fish sandwich and a few fries from McDonald’s. Some days it seems I can put away some food, other days I still eat like a bird. I can tolerate everything I eat, and I drink alcohol socially with no problems. My blood had always been low, so I take an iron pill in addition to my vitamins.

I want to give a shout out to my angelettes – Dee Love and Dionne; both are doing well and still losing. I haven’t spoken with my angelette Covergirl in a while. This update will prompt me to give her a call. Hello to my homies Bree and Dex, you guys remain in my prayers. Who else is still on the Board???? I haven’t a clue, but hello to everyone that I used to chat with, glad to meet you to those who are just reading my profile for the first time.

For those considering the surgery, I urge you to explore all your options. Check our www.duodenalswitch.com. Do your research and then make the decision that’s best for you. This surgery is life changing and takes a commitment to make life changing decisions. You have to get your head right! Losing weight does not change your mental status. Know why you are making this decision! Be confident in it and if you believe in the power of prayer, be prayerful about it!

Two years later, I DO NOT have ONE regret. If given the same decision, I would make it again. I have been blessed by this surgery. I feel great, I look great (LOL), and have a great support system, and I feel like I have lengthened my life by reducing my chances of medical issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes, etc.

My journey has been wonderful; I realize that not everyone can say that. People have lost partners/spouses, friends, family, etc. either literally or emotionally. My friends and family continue to be great. I have not lost one friend due to this surgery, my marriage has strengthened, and I give all the glory to God for that!!!!

I wish you well. I pray you have a great holiday season! I will try to do better at updating, but can not promise anything.

I love you all and wish you all your hearts desires…








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Since Feb. 11, 2005

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Date	Weight	Pounds Lost	Total Pounds Lost	BMI
12/13/04	360	0	0	48.8
12/22/04	341.5	18.5	18.5	46.4
1/13/05	323	18.5	37	43.8
1/27/05	321	2	39	43.5
2/13/05	308.9	12.1	51.1	42.1
3/13/05	293.2	15.7	66.8	39.7
4/13/05	276.8	17	84	37.4
5/16/05	262	14	98	35.5
6/09/05	249	13	111	33.8
7/13/05	239	10	121	32
8/10/05	229	10	131	31.1
9/12/05	216	13	144	29.3
12/13/05	192	5	160	26
Date	Weight	PL	TPL	BMI

Date