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2/5/04
I had my doppler on both of my legs this morning. It was really a nightmare trying to get there. Not that it's really that hard to get to Reading Hospital if you have proper instructions. Low and behold they did not have my referal again. Should I be suprised? NO! My primary doctor's office really suck at this referal thing. The doppler was interesting. It take quite awhile, I almost fell asleep. I had to run like a mad dog cause I had to get to Dr. Bonanni's office for a Psyche consult. I made it only 2 minutes late. The psychologist told me I have to make a visit with a psychiatrist as I have been diagnosed for depression for over 14 years. It seems the surgery can cause an elevated levels in depression and I might require a heavier dosage of medication. I kinda wish they would quit looking for things cause I'm afraid they are going to find something. Well I have an appointment on the 20th with Berks Cardiologist. Hopefully all will go well there.

2/7/04
I got an appointment for my EGD on the 19th with Dr. Bonanni. That week is going to be a fun filled one. It's kinda of weird having two surgeries before I can have the big one. I'm a little more scared of the greenfield filter. Dr. Bonanni did say that the surgery could cause problems with clots in itself. I just am putting my faith in GOD because I know I am definitely not the one in control. I STILL DON'T HAVE A SURGERY DATE THOUGH AND IT'S BEEN A WEEK SINCE MY APPOINTMENT WITH BONANNI.

2/10/04
I've finally dropped a few more lbs. I'm down another 4lbs. I thought I was stuck forever. The GYN Doc put me on horomones and I swear I've been stuck for 3 weeks. I have 8 more to go to get to the Dr's required 10%. I am still waiting for a surgery date. I have no clue as to why these people are soooo slow in giving you a tentative surgery date. I'm getting a bit frustrated as I'm doing everything that they ask. I just feel a little consideration would be nice but I do understand they are busy.

2/12/04
I have my appointment with the Psychiatrist for tomorrow. After all this running around they got me doing I can understand just how depressing it can be. I have an appointment on Tuesday the 17th with Berks, Schuylkill, Respitory Specialist. I have my follow visit with the GYN Dr. the 18th. I know he is going to say I need a hysterectomy but it's just going to have to wait for the bypass. I have my EGD at the Spring Ridge Surgery Center with Dr. Bonanni and on Thursday the 20th I have my Cardiologist visit. I hope this will wrap up the appointments. I think I have to have a sleep study done after that. So it should just be the Sleep study and the greenfield filter procedure. I've heard the surgery dates are now into April. I just wish they would hurry up and give me a darn date. I'm really getting frustrated. I've jumped through every darn hoop and now im tired. I want it over. I'm barely able to work as the appointments are taking over my life. I just don't know how we are going to be able to keep affording it. I need this to be over quickly. My friend Dave has his surgery on the 3rd of March. I'm very happy for him. I'm so envious. I go to the support group tonight. My first one and hopefully not the last one. I'm ready for life to start being as normal as possible. I'm not sure there ever will be a normal again. I've had to drive places I'd never believed I'd be able to drive. To clarify I'm from North Carolina and transplanted to Pennsylvania. I only know 422 and not all of these other interstates. I thought Reading would be the furtherest I'd have to drive. I'm having to go to Blanford & Lansdale and God only knows where else they are going to send me. I guess I just take the appointments as they come and start counting my blessings instead of griping.

2/14/04
I got the very best VALENTINES DAY PRESENT!!!!! Whoooohooo! I got a letter from my insurance approving my surgery. The surgery date is set for believe it or not APRIL 1, 2004. NO FOOLING! I thought it was ironic I got the approval on Valentine's Day that I'm having surgery on April Fool's Day. It's a hoot. I'm just doing the happy dance! I feel like my seems are gonna burst. It's so funny, my husband was away today on valentine's day to see a stupid hockey game with his parents and go to an outdoor show, so I was feeling terrible. I was in such a self pity mode I ate half a pizza a liter of Diet Coke (which I had given up totally for water). YIKES!!! I gotta lose that 8lbs more than ever now. Well I felt like crap and now I feel great. I just will have to make a huge sprint now to get that darn weight off. I'd like to be less the 300 on the date of surgery. I hate what I have done to myself with this weight. I just wish I had done this 2 years ago when I put it all back on. whoohooo!!!!!! yipee!!!!

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2/17/04
Well today I had my appointment with Berks Schuylkill Respitory Specialist. The Dr. was very nice as well as the staff. I must say it was not an unpleasant visit. He told me that I do have some of the symptoms for sleep apnea (not all of them)but because I have such a small mouth (size wise not volume LOL) that it could present a problem so he did recommend that I have a sleep study done. I will find out the dates for the study. Hopefully they will say I'm normal. Whatever normal is these days. Sometimes I feel like I go to one appointment and it leads to another. I have to visit the GYN today. My most favorite of appointments. It's my followup for my mammogram and vaginal ultrasound. I'm sure they are going to tell me I have a fibros uterus for sure. It's just going to have to take a back seat to the bypass. I'm just not ready for another surgery. However, it would be nice to be without the monster beast showing up every month. (well in my case daily)

2/19/04
I had my EGD done this morning at Spring Ridge Surgical Center. The staff were all great. I can't say I remember a thing. I have one heck of a sore throat though. Turns out I have what might be delayed gastric emptying. In other words another test that needs to be done. It seems my stomach does not empty like it should. Dr. Bonanni said he only has had 2 other people who have had this. I will have to have some sort of tube put into my stomach to empty it for six weeks. I swear I've just got no luck. As I sit here I hear a message on my voice mail that they have canceled my cardiology appointment tomorrow. NOTHING is going right. My surgery is now scheduled for April 12th instead of the 1st. Not that it is much difference but it is another 11 days to wait. Oh well I think I will just go crawl back in the bed and hope the anesthesia wears off at some point.

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2/22/04
Today is a brand new day and I'm feeling much better about things. Paula called me on friday to set up my appointment for my gastric emptying study. I have to eat eggs and orange juice with a special dye so they can watch it leave my stomach. Let's just hope it leaves and doesn't hang around like an unwanted visitor. I think I finally have the last of my appointments are scheduled. I have the nuclear study on the 26th at Reading Hospital, I have my cardiology appointment on the 25th, my sleep apnea study on March 8, 9 & 12. Let's hope this is the last test. My surgery pre-op with Britt is schedule on March 23 and my pre-op with Reading Hospital is April 5th. I only have one appointment that I'm not sure when they are going to do. That's for the Greenfield Filter to be implanted in my artery. I guess it will be closer to the date of surgery. Wow I still have a lot left to do. APRIL IS REALLY CLOSE THOUGH! I'm more than ready. I can't wait til I can actually go the movie theater without putting a space between me and the next person. I swear sometimes people believe that fat people are contagious. You can actually see that people avoid sitting near the fat person. The only plus to that is that know one is bugging you to get past you either during the best part of the movie. I wonder if when I manage to get the majority of this weight off, if I will still feel like that fat women sitting alone. It's funny how people worry about prejudice for race and other things but when it comes to an over weight person they have no problem calling you fat or starring at you and laughing. I guess if I were missing a limb it would be easier to accept. The funny thing is I eat less than most of my friends who are wayyyy smaller. OH well no one cares about the OBESE PATIENT. That word pisses me off too. MORBID OBESE. Who the heck thought of that one. Some fat cat sitting behind a desk I'm sure. We are so fat that we are disgusting. Isn't that what Morbid means. I am not only morbid obese I'm super morbid obese which means I can make small children cry just by them looking at me. Of course we are the only group that are to ashamed to stand up and tell people to stick it where the sun don't shine. Well not me. I've learned when people stare I turn around and say to them, I'm sorry, Do you need help with something? They get my meaning. I want them to be aware of how it feels to be humiliated.

2/23/04
I have compiled a list of all the appointments that I have had since beginning this procedure just so you can get an idea of what steps you must go through to get the operation. Keep in mind that I am considered Super Morbidly Obese. So I do have a few more than most.

Date Summary of Appointments
12/4 General Information Session
1/ 2 Initial Consult with Nurse
1/8 Appointment with Primary Physician to get on an approved weightloss plan
1/13 EKG & Arterial Blood Gases
1/14 LAB Work- Lots of blood work OB/GYN – for updated physical (mammogram & pap smear)
1/19 Mammogram
1/20 Ultra Sound & Chest X-Ray
1/26 Nutrition Consult
1/27 Exercise Consult
1/31 Dr. Bonanni-Surgical Consult
2/4 Pelvic Vaginal Ultrasound
2/5 Doppler study of both Legs·
Evaluation with Dr. Hamerich for Psyche Health.–Clinically diagnosed with depression, law requires I see a psychiatrist for clearance
2/6 Pre-Op Nutrition Consult
2/12 Support Group at the Reading Hospital
2/13 Appointment with license Psychiatrist Life Counseling Services
2/17 Berks Schuylkill Respitory Specialist
2/18 OB/GYN – follow up from testing
2/19 Spring Ridge Outpatient Surgery Center- EDG
2/25 Berks Cardiologist, LTD- EKG, Blood work drawn
2/26 Reading Hospital for Gastric Emptying Nuclear Study
3/3 St. Joseph's Hospital Cardiac Catheterization
3/8 Dr. Gallow -Appointment at University Services for Sleep Study- Preappointment
3/9 Pre-op class with Paula at Dr. Bonanni's office
3/9 Sleep Study- University Services
3/18 Support Group Reading Hospital
3/22 Appointment with Reading Hospital for consult to have Greenfield Filter- exam & bloodwork
3/22 Lab work at Labcorp
3/23 PRE-OP Visit with Britt at Dr. Bonanni’s Office
3/24 Follow up visit to Berks Respitory with Dr. Krol
3/31 Reading Hospital Interventional Radiology Outpatient
Placement of Greenfield Filter
4/5 Pre-Op Visit with Anesthesia Department at Reading Hospital
4/8 Liquid Diet to start
4/12 GASTRIC BYPASS SURGERY AT READING HOSPITAL


2/25/04
Today yet another office visit and yet another procedure added onto the mountain of stuff I have had to have. It seems that I must have a Cardiac Catherization before I can have the surgery because of my age, weight & the fact that my father has heart disease. I have no chest pains, no high cholesterol but because I'm 42 & my father has heart disease I have yet another mountain to cross. Which if I have any kind of blockage I will have to have stents put in which will delay the surgery for 3 months. I'm really ready to throw my hands up at this point. I don't want anymore doctors looking at me. I swear they are making up stuff for me to have to go through. So again my depression is really eating me up. Oh well, I have tomorrow to get through with the gastric emptying study. I pray there is nothing there cause of this tube I've heard is really nasty. At this point I just really need Tomorrow is a very important day for me.

2/27/04
I had my nuclear study done yesterday. It wasn't so bad. However I must say I am not all that impressed with Reading Hospital. I hope inpatients are treated a little better. Not to say that I was ill treated but I'd definitely say I was treated with indifference. The hospital is old and looks dirty. Let's hope it's all perception. My study consisted of eating an egg on toast with a cup of orange juice. I did not have anything to eat from 6 the night before until 12:30 at the time of the study and nothing to drink til after the procedure. I was so parched. They actually put me on a table under a machine and took pictures of my stomach for 1 minute every 30 minutes for 2 hours. Let's hope this is one test I passed. I couldn't really tell it all looked like dots to me. The good news is I don't have any test until Wednesday which is my heart catheterization. That one is a biggie. Sometimes I wonder why me but I know it's all for the best. You can't say that Dr. Bonanni is not thorough because he is making sure that there is absolutely no foreseen risk with me. I had no clue that surgery for obese people was as risky as it is. It's obvious to me that this is not a piece of cake by no means. My friend Dave has his surgery on the same days as my cath on 3/3/04. He starts the liquid diet tomorrow. I pray everything goes ok for him. It's so nice having him go first so I can experience a little of what it will be like before hand. I will know what to expect.



3/2/04
I have my Heart Catheterization tomorrow morning. I'm a little nervous. I know it's not all that bad but anything that has to do with the heart kinda scares me. My father's gone through these things so many times he says its nothing. Hmm, it's his fault I have to have this darn thing. He has such bad heart disease. I called to find out the results of my gastric emptying study and Dr. B's office has not called me with the results. The hospital said they would have it read on last thursday that I should have results by the end of the day. I know they are busy but darn it has been several miserable days waiting when I know they have the results. Well you know if it were bad news they would have called me right away. At least that is how I am going to start looking at it. My friend Dave has surgery tomorrow. I know he is excited and scared and all of those things at this point in time. He is a nazarene minister so I know he has the support of his entire congregation.

I went back on my diet as of yesterday. I stopped for two weeks cause I've been pigging out on pizza. I gained back 5lbs. How am I ever going to get this weight off before surgery. It's tougher this time than it was in January when I first started.

Off topic, I went to see the Passion of the Christ last night last night and today I'm just mentally exhausted. We are so blessed to have such a loving and forgiving God.

Well I just got a call from Brett at Dr. Bonanni's office. I DO have Gastroparesis. She said I have a pretty severe case of it actually. It basically means I will have another tube in my stomach. It will have to drain the stomach for 6 weeks. YUCK! It sounds aweful. I can't figure out how I got this as I don't have diabetes and it's for sure I never had annorexia. I can't imagine my stomach being paralyzed. I love to eat. I guess the timing could not have been more perfect to have this surgery.


3/4/03
I had my heart catheterization yesterday. St. Joseph's hospital was a very pleasant hospital. Everyone was very friendly and helpful. They did the cath in my arm instead of my groin which I was pleased with except it's my right arm. I can't say it wasn't painful because it was. They had difficulty finding my artery which for me is not unusual. I had to stay until around 4:00 that afternoon. It wasn't horrible. Hearts normal and my veins are clear. I'm now clear for surgery. When we got home we got bad news so my husband had to run back to the hospital.

Our good friend Pastor Dave who was to have surgery yesterday, had major complications on the table. Dr. Bonanni repaired 7 hernia's on him and removed his gall bladder. His blood pressure totally bottomed out so they had to stop as they thought he had a heart attack. He is in intensive care on a respirator. He is stable for now. Turns out he had an allergic reaction to something but they have no clue as to what. He did not have a heart attack.
I feel so bad for him cause he went through the surgery but did not get the bypass. We don't know when or if he will be able to have the bypass surgery. To my knowledge he still does not know that this has happened to him. Please pray for Pastor Dave. I know that whatever happens God is with him through every step of the way.

3/6/04
Nothing is ever easy these days. After I had my catheterization I started with a fever. It all started out low grade then spiked at 102 degrees. I spent Thursday night sweating and freezing and sick on my stomach with an incredible headache. I finally got rid of the fever only to be followed by this intense Vertigo that left me throwing up and unable to do anything but lay completely flat. I kept passing out. I ended up going to the hospital emergency room and got IV fluids for dehydration and turns out I had labryinthitis or inner ear infection. Thank goodness it didn't have anything to do with the heart cath. I can't remember ever feeling so bad. My blood pressure kept dropping. Today I feel like a wet noodle. I will be so glad when things go back to normal.

My friend Dave who was suppose to have the bypass but because of an allergic reaction to latex or whatever they had to stop in the middle of the surgery is going to have the bypass done again in 12 weeks. I'm glad to see he has not given up. He came so near to death. It's almost like the body is just giving one last fight not to get rid of the weight.

Even through all these trials I know the end result will be sooo worth it all.

3/08/04
I had my preop class with Paula today. It was basically more of the same. It did help a little though. There were a few others there that were soon to have the surgery.

3/11/04
My sleep study was done on Tuesday Night. Wow is that wierd. I swear I looked like I had a bomb attached to me. I had wires coming out of my head and all down my legs and arms. Things are on your face and up your nose. Believe it or not though I actually slept with all that stuff on. They did give me a call and said I do not have to have a second visit. They would send the results to my Dr. The lady at the desk said that the only reason they would not have to see you for a second visit is if you do not have sleep apnea. It's nice to think I don't have something for a change. I hope she is correct.

My diet has gone to hell these days. I can't lose weight. I ended up gaining back 5lbs. Every since they put me on horomones it's like my body will not let go of one pound. I just feel like screaming.

My husband went out and bought an elliptical for me to exercise on. Maybe it will give me a jump start. My pre-op exam with Britt is on the 23rd so they basically only gives me about 11 days to get 12lbs off. I need to start praying for a miracle.

3/17/04
ONLY 25 more days! I finally got off the weight that I had gained back so at least I'm at the original 25lb. weight loss I had before. I'm not as far off from goal as I was. I've been doing good. Hopefully the liquid diet will take off the rest. I'm getting a little nervous the closer it gets. Still a little worried about that gastrostomy tube. It just sounds so disgusting and six weeks seems like an eternity to have a tube.


3/22/04
What a day! What a day! I got a call from Reading Hospital that once again my primary care physician's office has not sent my referral. I call and get blasted out by the little receptionist on the phone that SHE indeed is perfect and couldnt have possibly NOT sent the referal. That's it is NOT her problem she has Proof she sent the referal. Yeah right! Like I haven't heard that one on just about ever occasion. I told her that I am not yelling at her and that it is MY problem and that her office is my primary care office so it is indeed her problem to make sure that I get my referals. I only called three weeks ago requesting it. Well I finally get to the Interventional Radiology for my consult on getting on getting the Greenfield Filter and the nimrods from my primary dr's office (little miss perfect) has sent the referal BUTTTT... AND THIS IS A BIG BUT she sent the referal for the Heart Catheterization that I had on the 4th of March. The nice admissions lady calls them up and ask them to send another one and can you believe it???? It takes the nimrod three tries before she actually gets it right. After this surgery Collegeville Family Practice will not be seeing this old gal. They are the most incompetent bunch of boobs I've ever seen. Anyhow, to get back to the consult. The PA comes in and goes over the procedure and does a brief exam and has me sign some consent forms that say there are risk with the procedure including death. My filter will be placed on the 31st of March. I look forward to nimrod giving me yet another referal. Thank God the surgery is soon or I may have to strangle that secretary. I do find out that the blood work that I had at Dr. Minehart's office has been a few days over a month and sooo once again the vampire strikes and I have to have blood drawn again. Labquest has to do it in order for my insurance to pay for it so I have to come back to Pottstown to get that done. Oh and btw, the lady informed me that the Radiology Dept there at Reading Hospital has Radiologist that do not take Keystone Health so I will have to foot some or all of the bill. Makes me just a tad bit nervous to find out how much of this surgery I'm going to have to pay for out of pocket. Tomorrow is my preop with Britt. I certainly hope it goes better than today. I'm getting close to the magical day now. Wednesday is my appointment with the Respiratory Therapist. After the greenfield and the anesthesia preop I WILL BE DONE with the testing. I CANNOT WAIT FOR APRIL THE 12TH....... FREE AT LAST! FREE AT LAST! THANK GOD ALMIGHTY I'M GOING TO BE FREE FROM THIS OVERWEIGHT BODY. I so look forward to NOT worrying about which chair I can fit my big bertha butt in or if I'm going to spill over and make the person next to me uncomfortable. Only 20 more days! Less than 3 weeks.

3/23/04
Today I had my pre op visit with Britt. I signed my paperwork for the surgery and got my prescriptions and the wonderful liquid diet. I had lost the required weight and had all my other test completed so I guess it's just a matter of waiting for the final few test and visits. I'm soooo ready.

3/24/04
My appointment with Berks Respiratory was today. I am cleared for surgery. I do not have sleep apnea and I only have mild snoring according to University Studies. My husband swears it's a lie. LOL! Now I can make fun of him cause HE DOES SNORE.

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3/25/04
Well I got some rather not so fun news from Britt today. She said that Dr. B said my surgery has to be open because I was definitely getting the Gastrostomy tube placed so he would need to open me up for that. I really am a little upset on getting the beautiful incision but hey you do what you gotta do. I just hate my recovery time is going to be alot longer. I have to sign new paperwork as my other papers say Laproscopic.

3/29/04
I just wonder does anyone else feel this overwhelming burden of pressures of things that need to be done before surgery. Between my job and my house I feel like I've got this 500 ton weight between my shoulder blades. I'm trying to pack up all my winter clothes (getting them ready to give to goodwill cause I have no intentions of fitting in them next year) and getting all the things I need to get done at work. I work in Human Resources and I have tons of stuff to get done before I leave. I almost dread coming back to the pile of stuff I'm going to face on my return. It's also the end of our physical year in June so that means I have to send out evaluations for the entire hospital. I think I need a stress reliever. My filter procedure is set for wednesday so that kinda sets me back a little. Oh well Donna quit thinking about it. ONLY 14 DAYS!!!!!!!!!!!!! DOING THE HAPPY DANCE HERE!!!!!!!!

3/31/04
I had my retrievable Vena Cava Filter put in today at Reading Hospital. The Dr. was awesome. I never felt a thing including the novicaine. I wish my heart cath had been this easy. The staff were all very nice and took good care of me. My groin is a little sore now but I guess thats to be expected. This is finally my last hurdle. I visit the Reading Anesthesiologist on Monday and then it's all smooth sailing from there. I'm not going to know what to do with all the free time. LOL!



4/5/04
It's getting closer. My pre-op visit with Anesthesia was today. Only one week away now. The Anesthesiologist was very nice. He explained to me that there was going to be a small iv started before I went to sleep then I would have a Central Venous Line as well as an arterial line put in after the General had been administered. Before the surgery however they would give me a shot of morphine in my spinal column for pain management after the surgery. He said this is an effective method for pain for the first 18 hours. Got my blood typed and cross matched and now I'm set to go. Me and hubby finally went out and got the vitamins that I am going to need. I have to get my preparations for the liquid diet that I start on Thursday. I'm really going to miss food. I'm NOT GOING TO MISS this big old belly and bad back. I swear walking that mall today was so painful. I look forward to the day I can do it with ease. SOOONNNN!!!!

4/8/04
I can't believe it! I've started running a fever on Wednesday night of 103. Today it's been around 101 degrees. I've been able to get it down to 99.5. I'm hoping it's a virus. I have no clue what the heck is wrong with me and here I am 5 days from surgery. I'm a little worried cause I don't know if I should let the Dr. know because I'm afraid of him canceling the surgery.
I've had two nights with no sleep at all. My parents are coming tomorrow and my house is still not totally cleaned. The stress is killing me. I start my liquids today (4 days out of surger). It's kinda surreal knowing I won't be eating solid foods for nearly 7 weeks. I have no clue how I'm going to do with no solid food. I'm such a foodaholic.

4/9/04
Second day of liquids and I'm still alive. LOL! There are moments when I get still and my stomach sounds like its going to eat itself. It kinda feels like that too. I did manage to loose 6lbs in the last few days due to illness and liquid diet. GOOD NEWS! is that I no longer have a fever and I finally feel 100% myself. Other than being sore from cleaning my house like a fend, I'm good to go. I'm still waiting to be nervous about the surgery. I don't feel the least bit of apprehention yet. I'm more stressed out about my mother coming into my house and tell it me what a pig sty it is. Oh well I've cleaned as much as I can humanly do for a women who is over 300lbs and needs to new knees. I was hoping to be under 300lbs before the surgery but I don't believe that will happen but.... you know what thats a small thing at this point. Just keeping myself healthy before and after the surgery has to be priority number one. I AM SO READY! MONDAY HURRY UP AND GET HERE!!!

4/10/04
My surgery is scheduled for 12:30p.m. on Monday. I have to arrive at the hospital 2 hours early at 10:30. It's not my most ideal time as I would love to have had it done first thing but beggars can't be choosers. Hopefully Dr. Bonanni will be nice and rested. I have learned a few things being on this liquid diet. First off, you won't starve to death without solid foods, second liquids CAN make you bloated and going to the bathroom for a bowel movement is certainly a watery experience. LOL
My mother cooked a wonderful smelling sugar ham for everyone tomorrow. I did get to enjoy the wafting aroma all day. The secret to the fluids is to keep the body busy so the mind doesn't have time to think about it. Only one more day til my new birth.

4/11/04
Tomorrow is my big day. I'm just sitting here thinking that I have less than 24 hours now til a new improved me. I watched as everyone enjoyed there wonderful Easter Lunch and I kept thinking that next year I'm going to look good for Easter. That food is no longer going to rule my life. I was just finishing my last journal entry til after the surgery. I keep myself a book of thoughts as well as this journal. I was packing my stuff up and I realized how very little I really need to carry with me to the hospital. I am going to bed early tonight so I will be nice and rested for my procedure. Best Wishes to all of those having surgery soon as well. I'm still not nervous or scared.

4/17/04
It has been 5 days since surgery and I'm home. I must say I'm pretty uncomfortable most of the time (but not in real pain). There's lots of gas and just in general feeling like crap. I have two tubes, the gastrostomy (which is a 2" diameter hole in my side and oozes the worst looking black green bile you've ever seen) and the Jackson Pratt tube (which is no where near as bad). I woke up in the recovery room with my endotrachial tube still in and pretty much panicked. It was huge pain because I was tensing up and making my stomach contract. Once they took that out I had virtually no pain. The Spinal shot they gave me was absolutely wonderful and kept me pain free for the first few days. Then it went on to the morphine shots. They were great but made you feel like you were in the clouds. I am glad to be home but taking any pain medications are tough because they can't give me liquid codeine because i'm allergic so i have to chop up these really big pills and they are mega hard to get down. I just quit trying on the pain meds it's not worth it. It's really just discomfort anyway not REAL pain. I think my back hurt worse than anything just from lying in the bed (I've always had a bad back). Well I'm exhausted typing this little bit. Will do more as time progresses.

4/19/04
No one warned me you could actually GAIN weight at the hospital. I gained 20lbs from the fluids. I've had nothing to eat going on two weeks. It's kinda disappointing but I DO know it's just fluid retention and I have to walk walk walk.
My bowels are now officially operating correctly so that's a good thing. Dr. Bonanni's crew were fantastic. I'd have to give ALL of them an A+. I saw Dr. Bonanni everyday. The first day I say Dr. Beetle (what a hunk!), Dr. Pegari and Britt. I think I saw Dr. B, Pegari and Britt everyday until I was released. Super nice bunch. I'm trying to figure out the whole water thing though. I swear I sip all day and can get in at best 24ounces of water. I feel like I'm constantly drinking or eating jellow or dole pops. It's really weird only eating like two small bites of jello at the time. I probably only get 2oz. of food in a day. My want for food has not decreased. My mother has been here cooking for my husband and daughter and the aroma is unbearable at times. I get pudding as of today and I'm looking forward to that. Anything but jello. I did have some chicken broth but it tasted sooo strong to me. I've noticed everything taste more intense. Well I'm ready for the losing to begin. I've just begun my transformation. Watch out world cause here comes Donna!

Just got back from seeing Britt at Dr. Bonanni's office and I got that horrible drain out. It was totally painless and actually when it came out along with a load of fluid, I felt soooo much better. I've gotten off 15lbs of that fluid I had gained in the hospital. I hope I drop some more fluid cause I should have lost some weight by now.

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4/20/04
Last night was a lovely night. I woke up soaked and the bed was soaked from that Jackson Pratt Drainage hole that was left after they pulled the tube. That thing is soooo nasty. I had to go by a crap load of sponges etc. I ended up spending $50 bucks on drain sponges, alcohol swaps, and antiseptic. Well I will have the darn gastrostomy for 6 weeks so I'm going to need alot of drain sponges. They are very costly. When does that hole heal up? Britt told me 24 hours. It doesn't even look close to closed. I'm ready to drop some weight. I am down to 320 but still not at my pre surgical weight yet. Darn fluid. I must have a gallon of ooz in my tummy, well in my legs and feet too cause they look like two puffy balloons. I must say though I'm doing pretty good. I got out and drove myself to walmart and to the professional pharmacy. I know I'm suppose to wait for 2 weeks but darn there was no one home but me and I'm kinda stubborn. The only problem was getting in and out of the car. I got a nice walk out of the whole adventure. I came home and got my first allowable shower. I mean a real shower. I did however have to cover my tummy in my plastic as I still have the gastrostomy tube. I will have to do that for 6 more weeks. I'm ready for the losing to begin any second now. LOL I think I feel good enough to make it back to work either the middle of next week or the beginning of the next. I think I will try it part time. You know this surgery isn't too bad after all.

4/23/04
Can I say I'M SICK OF THIS GASTROSTOMY TUBE. I have Four more weeks of it. It's worse than the JP Tube. I'm sick of potatoes. I did try some vegetable soup turned to mush. LOL
LOL, I'm still happy I had the surgery. Just venting. Cause 4 more weeks of mush just doesn't sound too appealing. I can't get in enough water. I barely can swig down 20oz. That's sipping all day. Never, never eat eggs. No matter how soft they are. They kill my stomach. I wish 4 weeks would go by real fast. I want something to eat. Darn it.

4/26/04
I just got back from Dr. Bonanni's office. I got my lovely staples removed. I can't say enough how wonderful the staff are at Dr. B's office. They are all super nice. Britt is wonderful. She took out my staples and talked to me the whole time and I didn't feel any pain at all. I had been dreading it cause they really looked quite sore. Turns out it's mostly scabs. Britt said it would be ok to go back to work on monday. I can't tell you how happy that makes me as I don't have any short term disability. I'm only going back half days though. I met the loveliest lady in the office who had lost 170lbs in 9 months. I just pray I can do as well.

4/28/04
Last night I spent a night in total misery. My stomach felt like it was totally spasming. I don't know if thats considered dumping or not as I did not have diarrhea or vomiting but it was sure enough painful.



5/03/04
I'm back to work after only 3 weeks. I'm so glad that the surgery went so well. I was so afraid of having the open gastric bypass. Turns out the power of prayer and a great surgeon help. I have to give Dr. Bonanni props for the best job ever. I've had no complications and I feel fantastic. I've lose a total of 42lbs so far and the world looks so beautiful now. I was totally worried about it all. Turns out the surgery isn't so bad. It feels good to be back into the world again.

5/06/04
I went to work on Monday and Tuesday. I must have been sitting up for the last few days to much. Cause now I have had for the last few days some severe pain in my Gastrostomy tube and at the top of my incision is a hard area that is way tender at the top of my incision. I went to see Britt and she cleaned up the Gastrostomy tube and gave me some pain meds. She believes the tenderness and swelling is scar tissue. I just hope it gets better cause it's very difficult to sit up anymore.

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5/11/04
Well it has been one bad adventure. My gastrostomy tube had pretty much gotten as infected as anything could possibly be. I put up with several days of such severe pain. It was worse than right after the surgery. I spent 3 days flat on my back trying not to move at all. One of the sutures came loose and went under the plastic piece of the G-tube. It was digging and ripping my flesh. I called them on Monday morning to get them to take this horrible thing out. I had an appointment at 11:00 with T. Runkle the nutritionist. They told me to come in at 2:00. Which meant 3 hours of having to sit up and walk around with this horrible pain. My appointment with Teresa went well. I know longer have to eat mush. I can have a little more food. Which I am looking for. She told me that I'm not getting enough food or protein. I still am only getting 2 meals a day. She told me I need 6 meals. Anyway after the appointment I went to wendy's and tried to eat some chili. It was soooo HOT outside! I think I got dehydrated from sweating. I'm only able to get down about 24oz. of water. I tried to hang out at Barnes and Noble but I came so close to passing out. Well at 2:00 the office took me directly to a room and had me lay down til Dr. Beetle (Boy is he hot!) got there. He came in and took a look at and said that he would call Dr. Bonanni and tell him it needed to be pulled. He then explained to me how he was gonna pull the g-tube. Kinda like the JP tube except they had to let the bubble down at the end of the tube. After he pulled it (stitches were mega painful) he told me that it had done one number on my skin. He also told me the hardness at the top of the incision and the swelling was probably a hematoma. He said it would be absorbed in the body. It I started a fever then they would have to give me antibiotics.

I got home and looked at the infected area and it was absolutely the grossiest thing I had ever seen. It was a 2" diameter circle with flesh that looked like it had been tenderized and it had probably 4 very large 1/8" deep ulcerated areas with pus in them. I ended up getting only one meal in yesterday because I was sooooo sick and in pain. Today I hope to do much better. My total weightloss of today is 48lbs. Post op weight is really coming off slow. I am eating too little to loose according to everyone. I'm looking forward to feeling good again.

5/12/04
I was progressed to a different stage of food on Monday and today I had my first dumping. OH lord it is not so pleasant. I had very tenderized beef tips and noodles. They went down fine last night and today it was almost instant vomiting. Nothing pleasant about it. It's tough enough to make myself eat. I swear I'd just as soon not eat a thing. I wonder when that desire will change. Not that I'm looking forward to being hungry but... it does remind you at least to eat. I really have no desire unless someone comes in with a pizza and then I drool but it's definitely not from hunger. Just desire. I know the lack of food is stalling my weightloss. I can't get in the protein cause it makes me sick.

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5/13/04
Well tonight I got a very unpleasant suprise. Around 7:00 I had just gotten my shower and was laying down in bed preparing to watch Survivor. All of a sudden I felt fluid on me. I got up went to the bathroom and it turns out my incision had burst open and was pouring this awful thick red and yellow stuff out of it. I mean it was pouring. It took four wash cloths to catch the damn. Scared the crap out of me so I immediately called my husband at work 1st and then called Dr. Bonanni's office. I finally got the bleeding under control after about an 1 1/2. Still no call from Dr. Bonanni. I'm terrified cause I'm all alone and I have no idea what the heck is happening to me. After my second call to have Dr. B paged, he called and spoke to me. Turns out I had a seroma and it was draining. He said either the body will absorb it or it would come out of the wound. He told me it would probably open up more. Nice thought. It's disgusting. I have a hole in my stomach the size of an eraser head.

5/14/04
I woke up this morning and Dr. B was right. I now have a quarter size diameter whole in my stomach. I've never seen anything so horrible looking. I thought the G-tube sore was bad but seeing a hole in your stomach is very scary. It looks like someone just cut a nice neat little hole down to my insides. YUCKYYYY! The draining is much better though. I put a gauze over it. I don't even want to look at it. I'm going to be scared so bad when all of this over with. I'm so ready for the healing. The first 3 weeks were great and it's been down hill from there. However, since the seroma erupted I do not have as much pain under my breast like I did. I'm just scared I'm going to get a major infection. I have a big hairy dog that sheds like a fend. It gets everywhere. I've gotta make sure it doesn't get in this open hole. I feel so disillusioned these days. The weightloss is pretty much stalled for me. I eat nothing cause I don't feel good enough to even eat.

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5/20/04
I just got back from Dr. Bonanni's office. He took a look at the hole in my stomach. After probing it with a q-tip he told me that I have a 2 1/2" sinus. I have to pack the darn thing twice a day. My husband and his wise self said he would do it, but there's no way he can do it because he has to work 2jobs and doesn't have the time. Sooo now I have to try to do it for myself. A nurse would have been great. Oh well, It won't be the first thing that I have had to do on my own. I'm sick of this pain.



6/2/04
Went to my PCP today for a check up. I haven't seen them since the surgery. I am now down 60lbs. Woohoo!! I can't wait til I'm under 250lbs. Not too much longer to go (hopefully). I look so foward to walking flea markets and perhaps even going hiking. My knees are doing great. I no longer walk with a cane. It's such a life giving surgery. I can't really consider what I was doing before living. It basically is like your dead inside but your body just keeps moving. I am starting to love living once again. Anyway, my incision seems to be healing. It's like it's caving in. I'm gonna have a wonderful scar from the whole experience but so what. Was I really planning on wearing a bikini anyway. Don't think so.

6/11/04
Well the scales seemed to have died. They aren't moving. I wish I was not such a slave to the darn things. I just keep thinking anything would be good at this point. It's getting very discouraging. I know my husband is happy because I think he secretly wants me to fail at this surgery. Some days I think he might be right. I can't eat meat at all without puking my guts up. The taste in my mouth has gotten somewhat better but is still not back to pre-surgery. My incision is mega sore these days. It looks like it's healing but my bra keeps rubbing it raw and making it sore. I just wonder if life will ever be normal again.

6/21/04
All that soreness came from a seroma developing again. My incision opened up again and I'm worried they are going to have to open me back up. Dr. Bonanni said it could be a stitch that is irritated. I'm just totally sick of dealing with this annoying thing. I can't lay on my side. My back is worn out from all this weight bearing down on it, plus the needle puncture from the morphine shot they gave me in the spine is still a huge sore on my back. I just do not heal.

6/28/04
Still having soreness from that darn Seroma. I wonder how many times the fluid can rebuild. I haven't received a call back from Dr. B's office and it has now been 8 days. Oh well, I will ask him when I go back for my recheck of my open incision. Today I lost 5lbs. I'm at 275lbs. I can get my big butt into a size 24W. They are tight but I can fit into them. My top appears to be a size 18W. I'm built like an hour glass. Big boobs, tiny waist(in comparison mind you) and one mega butt. If the pants fit in the butt they are huge in the waist. I cannot wait til I can throw away all lycra and knits from my closet. I finally measured my body just to see how many inches I will lose.

Inches
Chest-52"- 48" - 46" - 37"
Waist-40"- 38 1/2" - 35"- 27"
Hips-57" - 56" - 48"-38"
Arms-15" - 14 1/2" - didn't measure but will - 10 1/2"
Calves-HUGE 18"- 17" - didn't measure but will- 11"
Wrist-6"- didn't measure but will - 5"



Ok I think it's time I start my weightloss chart here. We can certainly see how I fail at diets. I have NO problems retaining fluid though.

Pre-Op
1/02/04- 339lbs
1/19/04- 326lbs
1/30/04- 319lbs
2/10/04- 315lbs
3/2/04- 320lbs
3/17/04- 314lbs
3/31/04- 319.4lbs

Post Op
4/19/04- 345lbs (more than the original- Only I can gain that much in fluid and having been on a liquid diet for 4 days prior and I promise I did not cheat.
4/23/04- 311lbs - Getting off some of the fluid. Thank God. I looked like a balloon I was so bloated. I thought the weight would have come off by now as I've eaten hardly anything and can only get in about 20oz. of fluid. It seems to be coming off about a lb a day.



4/24/04- 309lbs
4/26/04- 305lbs
4/28/04- 303lbs
4/29/04- 301lbs
5/02/04- 299lbs - WOOHOOO! I'M OFFICIALLY UNDER THE 300 MARK.
5/03/04- 297lbs
5/06/04- 294lbs
5/11/04- 291lbs
5/14/04- 290lbs
5/16/04- 287lbs
5/18/04- 284lbs- can we say Donna is obsessed with the scales.
6/02/04- 280lbs- FINALLY some loss. I was getting worried there.
6/10/04- 285lbs- Darn scales! I'm ready to just scream! I feel like I'm never going to lose. I've actually gained. What the heck!
6/21/04-279- Well, I've fluctuated back down the scales.
6/28/04-275lbs- Woohoo! I do believe my plateau is gone.
6/30/04-273lbs
7/6/04-268lbs
7/14/04-263lbs
7/19/04-259lbs
8/06/04-257lbs- boy it is slow only 11lbs this month.
8/9/04-254- a nice 3 lb drop. I'm with a nose hair of 250 now.
8/14/04-250lbs a total of 89lbs.
8/23/04-248lbs as today. WOOHOOOOOOOOO!!! MY SILVER GOAL MET. 91LBS.
8/29/04-246lbs
9/8/04-239- I DID IT! I MADE THE 100LB MARK! LOVE YOU DR. BONANNI!
9/21/04- 234lbs and feeling great
10/12/04- 225lbs HAPPY SIX MONTH ANNIVERSARY TO ME!!!! (wish it could have been more but a 114lb loss isn't too bad.
10/25/04-220lbs
11/01/04-216lbs
12/09/04-210lbs
12/15/04-208lbs
1/4/05-198lbs
1/22/05-189lbs
2/17/05-184lbs- very slow weightloss at this point
4/01/05-178lbs-very very very slow up and down the scales
6/9/05-164lbs not doing as good as I think I should have at this point. I feel like I'm losing very slow now.
6/23/05- 161lbs
8/08/05-167lbs bouncing and gaining again. I feel quite depressed with weight gain.
9/10/05- 155lbs- I'm still losing which is very good. There are days I feel like I'm not going to lose anymore and then the struggle stops and there is a loss. I just hope I can get to the 140lb goal that I have set for myself. Only 15lbs more to go. If I would quit snacking I am sure I could meet it easily.
1/02/06- 140lbs and at MY GOAL!!!!!!!!!!!! YIPPEEEE!!
1/17/06-138lbs and hopefully shrinking more soon.
5/12/06- 128lbs and almost at the ideal weight. Just 2 more lbs to go.
5/26/06-136lbs and back up the scales. Crap!


7/19/04- I went to visit Dr. Bonanni today to recheck my ever forming seroma. He has a new assistant in the office as well as a new surgeon. The assistant was very friendly. Dr. Bonanni said he still want to hold off on removing the stitch that's causing the seroma. He thinks given enough time it will dissolve. He did say the seroma could reopen up the incision again and to not be worried. It's just totally irritating because I can't workout and exercise as well as I could if I didn't have this open incision. I can't do pool workouts yet because of it either. I'm kinda used to the soreness though. I've lost 81 lbs as of today. I can't believe I've gotten that much weight off in this short period of time. I've lost weight before but never this much this soon! It's fantastic. I hope to be under 250lbs by the end of July.

7/27/04
Freaking incision opened up YET AGAIN. It's really getting old now.



8/06/04
Well I'm at 257lbs at this point only down 11lbs since July 6. That seems incredibly slow considering I'm only eating about 500 calories a day. I'm trying to do better but every time I get to the point where I think I can get some food down. I start the throwing up bit again. Oh well it will get better eventually. I want to at least be down below 250 before I fly home to North Carolina. I'm really nervous about flying. My butt is sooo large I worry if it will fit in the seat without impeding on someone elses space. I've seen that look before when people don't want to be touched by the fat person. Plus I dread asking for the seat belt extender. I really can't wait to go home though. I haven't been to NC in soooo long. I'm going to miss my beautiful puppy doggy. Almost 4 months out now. I'm praying for that 199lbs. I don't have too much further to go.






Me and Ozzy. Woohoo! I'm at 250lbs. now. I'm getting there.




9/1/04
Well I'm now at 246lbs. I was thrilled to death today because I went to buy a pair of jeans in a size 24 and low and behold they were too big. The 22's fit nice. I think I totally skipped the 24. I'm getting ready for my trip home to North Carolina. I'm a little terrified of flying. I pray my butt won't be too large for the seat. This has always been my fear. My rearend has kept me from doing so many things. I will be glad when I get to a size I won't be worried whether or not I'll fit in a seat or get in a booth. I'll probaby always feel that way though even if I got to a small size.

I'm soooo afraid that my incision is going to open up once again. It's turned a nice shade of purple like it did before when it opened. It's also become very sore. Not good indications from my past experience. I just hope if it does it will open before my trip home. I'm really getting tired of dealing with it. BUTTT I would never NOT go through this surgery. It's been a lifesaver in more ways than one. I feel as though I'm finally coming back to life after being dormant for so long.

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9/8/04
100LBS!!!!!! Doesn't that sound wonderful? I finally made the century club at 100lbs loss of me. I thought I'd never make it but WHALLLAHHH I did! It feels great to hear it. Only 40more lbs to be under the 200lbs mark. Hopefully by February I will make it. It would be nice if it were sooner but.. I'm learning that patience is definitely a virtue. THANK YOU LORD AND THANK YOU DR. BONANNI AND STAFF FOR GIVING ME BACK MY LIFE.

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9/21/04
I returned from my trip to North Carolina. I got throught the plane ride just fine. I was able to walk the long distances that were required to reach my destination in the airports. The plane seats were very tiny but I fit just fine. I did have to get a seat belt extension as I was just a smidgeon too big. It was right at the clicking but just wouldn't quite close. I carry most of my weight in my behind. LOL





10/12/04
Today is my six month anniversary. I weighted in at 225lbs. for a total loss of 114lbs. I'm not a super loser but I'm not a slow one either. I'm extremely happy with the loss of weight I've had. I just have to focus harder on eating the right foods. I've managed to get a UTI and the Doctor said I wasn't getting in enough fluids. I really have to start doing better pounding the water and getting some real exercise in.

10/21/04
Well the scales aren't moving and it's a little frustrating. I have been having lots of pain lately. I went to see Dr. Beetel(what a doll baby) and he thinks it could be the gallbladder so I had to have blood work done and a Ultrasound. I haven't heard anything yet but I'm hoping it's not the GB. Another disappointing thing is that their scales weighted me 5lbs heavier. I guess because of the clothes. Anyway. I'm not going to let it get me down. I'm hoping this mini plateau breaks soon.

10/25/04
I can't believe it. Today I bought a pair of jeans and they were a size 18. I never thought I would ever be able to get into pants that size again. It just keeps getting better and better.



11/11/04
Well, I officially gained back 4lbs. CRIPE! I must be doing too much salt. I had my appointment with Dr. Bonanni today to follow up on the pain that I've been having. Well it looks like the culprit are Gall Bladder Stones. I'm going to have surgery again on December 13th. I can't have it taken out by Laproscopic means because I had open RNY which caused adhesions or whatever. So that means another incision. No biggie. It's not like I was gonna parade around in a bikini anyway. I don't look forward to being out of work though. I'd still do everything all over again. I'm so thrilled with this surgery even with the hurdles I have had to go through.

11/17/04
Today the pain started again and throwing up severly. I decided to call Dr. Bonanni's office to see if I could move up my surgery. I got a call back and had the surgery moved to November 29th. I'm ready to get this thing out. Do yourself a favor and LISTEN TO YOUR DOCTOR. If I had just taken my Actigal I probably wouldn't be in this pain. I'm such a hard head and I never believe it's going to happen to me.

11/21/04
I can now wear a size 16WP. Oh they are tight but I can breathe and move just fine in them. I haven't worn this size in over 5 years. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! I gotta buy a pair of 14W's and see if I can ease into those next. LOL! I'm never satisified. I dropped a whole inch in my butt but for whatever reason the scales remain the same. I'm sure it's only a matter of time before I say a scale shift. WOOHOOO!!!



12/02/04
Well I just back home from the hospital from my Gall Bladder surgery. Whew! It was worse than my Open RNY. Dr. B said my gall bladder was under my liver. Surgery lasted longer than I thought it would. Donald my husband says i wasn't out of there until 3 hours later. My white blood count went up along with my fever. It just wasn't fun. Of course this is not fault of Dr. B's. He is again always great! Reading Hospital has gone down hill since my last surgery. I waited over three hours for pain meds and then they were yelling at each other about and placing the blame instead of taking care of their patients. Thank Goodness I didn't go through that during my RNY. I'm just glad it's over and I am now home. I have about a 5" incision. My husband says I look like a half of an upside down peace sign. LOL! Just be sure to take your Actigall so you don't have to go through this.

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12/9/04
Today I weighted in at 210lbs. Only 10 more lbs to goal. I can't eat as much as I could pre gall bladder surgery. I'm sure my ability will improve as it did before and more of it will be on me. The people at work really noticed the drop in weight. I'm now in a size 16 losely. I can't wait til the swelling goes down some though. It's all good!


My Weight is 200lbs here I believe

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3/8/05
Well I went for my bloodwork for my upcoming one year anniversary Doc visit. No problems drawing blood today. I feel good. I'm eating like a pig though. Of course not pre surgical amounts but more than I think I probably should be eating. I think I need to concentrate on protein. I've fallen in love with lasagna. I keep praying the scales will move again. They are pretty much staying the same. I fluctuate between 180-184lbs. I looked at the weight planner and I'm pretty much dead on at 80% loss of excess weight at this point. I feel great though and am grateful to Dr. B.





April 28, 2005





4/05/05
Today I had my year followup with Dr. Beetle. Oh my God is he HOT! LOL He is looks like such a baby. Of course he is a sweetie too just like Dr. B. The entire office are great. I'm so proud of my cholesterol which is only 141. He was funny He said his wasn't even that good. I feel like a million bucks. However I did get caught not taking my vitamins like a should. My calcium was very low so now I'm going to have to be more deligent with my vitamins. I need to make an appointment with Teresa Runkel our nutritionist. I've gained 6lbs and been struggling something terrible these days. My protein levels were great so I'm proud of that fact.


May 22, 2005
Today is a pretty miserable day for me. Even though I've lost so much weight my joints still kill me on the rainy days. I'm aching like one giant tooth today. On the plus side I'm now down to 168lbs and I have my monthly which is amazing cause I normally gain and this time I lost weight. Keeping my fingers crossed for the next drop. My weightloss has slowed to almost nothing these days though. I know now that I'm really going to have to kick it into high gear and start exercising which I've avoided for this past year. I just want to lose the next 30lbs and I'll be satisfied at that point. I feel my ideal weight is going to be around 130lbs but I don't know if I can quite achieve that goal. I'm happy with who I am now. I wish I could blink all this extra skin off of me though. It is just hanging from everywhere. I've lost 171lbs and of course with that much of a loss everything is going to be lose. My butt probably hurts worse than anything because the skin pinches something terrible when I sit down. My thighs are horrific. I can't wear shorts because it looks like my skin is falling on to the floor. My husband said I had jabba the hut arms and thighs (which of course only makes me feel worse about it.) I'm 13 months out and I seriously ready for the tummy tuck, breast reduction, skin removal whatever they can do for me time. I think I'd lose at least 10lbs if they would do the tummy tuck and breast reduction. Just hope insurance will approve at the very least the breast reduction and tummy tuck. I've heard the thighs and arms are very hard to get covered. It's hard to believe they wont cover it when they say how bad it is. It hurts to walk with the weight of the skin hanging and pullin on you. On that note I'll quit the whinning for now. Hopefully the next time I update I'll be down another 10lbs.


June 9, 2005
Things have really slowed down on the weightloss but I am not suprised because I've really been making the wrong choices as of late. Eating candy bars, etc, and depression eating again. I wish I could change my head like my stomach. I went home to North Carolina a few weeks ago and everything was going along great. I was eating and not eating too much. I managed to get down to 164lbs. I can't believe it. Only 30 more lbs to go before I'm at my goal. I figure all the hanging skin I have probably accounts for at least 15-20lbs of it. My thighs hang to my feet and my stomach hangs to my thighs and my boobs hang to my waist. I'm pretty sure they will all eventually meet on the floor. I'm worried that insurance won't cover all of this and the weight of the skin tugging is getting pretty bad. My thighs especially. When I walk the weight really tugs not to mention when I sit down my butt pinches something awful. I've lost 175lbs so far. If I can just get the last 30lbs off. I'll be ever so grateful.

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July 14, 2005
My weight fluctuates like crazy. I was down to 161lbs now I'm back up to 165lbs. I crave and give in to those cravings on a daily basis. I have to get my head straightened out before the weight comes back.

Me and My buds at work

We had funfest at work. Had my picture taken with my buds. I'm the redhead with the yellow sunshine shirt. I weight 161lbs on this day.

My Weightloss Progress as of today at 159lbs.

Lost down to 159lbs even thought its day one of the monthly menace and I feel as bloated as the titanic.

Note the flabby arms. YUCK!

I look quite evil! Again PMSing here!

I'm starting to feel sexy. A little anyway!

I absolutely hate the gobble neck.

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August 4, 2005
Darn near my 43rd birthday. I can't believe that I am that old. I swear I was only 16 yesterday. This past year in a half has been great. I've lost quite alot. I however think the weightloss has ended for me. I tend to fluctuate from 161 - 170 on any given day. I will have to work for the last 30lbs. I am now experiencing some really bad abdominal pains. I fear it's an ulcer. I called Dr. Bonanni's office on Thursday because I couldn't even stand up. My husband had to come and get me and drive me home from work. I spoke to Paula Beem, the nurse at the office. She's fantastic. I was scheduled for an upper GI for Monday.



August 8, 2005
I had my Upper GI today. That stuff they give you to drink is one nasty tasting stuff. YUCKKKK!!!!!!!! It was easy though and pain free. My appointment with Dr. Beetle is tomorrow and I'll find out the results of today.

August 9, 2005
I saw Dr. Beetle today and he said my test actually came back that everything looked fine. My pouch had very little stretching. (HOORAY! I figured I had stretched it into a new football.) He said it was about where they would hope for it to be. However, since we can't find the source of the pain, I now have to have a couple of other procedures to have to rule out ulcer or inguinal hernia. So I am scheduled for a CAT Scan on Saturday and an EGD on Monday the 15th. He said on rare occassions they have to open you up and look around but in my case he didn't see that happening. Which in my opinion the pain would have to get much much worse to have another open surgery.

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August 10, 2005
I got a message that they are canceling my EDG due to a problem the office is having with Keystone. I can't reschedule until this happens.

August 26, 2005
I'm rescheduled for an EDG at Reading Hospital on September 8th. I have been in such extreme pain lately. It just wouldn't let up on me one evening. I'm ready to get rid of the pain.



September 1, 2005
Today I had a plastic surgery consult with Dr. Louis. Another nice looking Doc. I'm beginning to believe it's a pre-requisite to be a physician. LOL Anyway it's a weird kinda feeling standing naked in front of someone not your husband and what's even worse having your picture taken. Oh well anything I have to do to get this tummy and breast done. He actually lifted my belly and said "Your a tiny little thing under there". I will be more than excited to say goodbye to my little drapery stomach. He did say that insurance is funny. The encouraing thing he said was that he would be mighty suprised if they denied me. Saying prayers as it will take 4-6 weeks to find out. I'll be sitting on pins and needles til then. Good news too! I lost 2 more lbs. Every lb counts. LOL


Hosted by Sparkle Tags9/8/05
I had my EDG done at Reading Hospital. I must have been the very last case scheduled. I was the only one left in the recovery. I felt good afterwards, no sore throat, mild tiredness but good. I actually went to support group that night. I got home at 3:30 and left for support group at 5:00. Dr. Beetel told my husband that everything looked good that he didn't see anything. So now I just feel like its all in my head. I keep having these episodes but If they can't find anything then perhaps I'm just crazy.


A picture of Mama with Ozzy and Daughter Lauren with Ozzy. I never knew we looked so much alike.



October 2005
I am still losing weight slowly but nothing fast. I can now wear mostly 12's but am fitting in 10's more often now. I still have not heard from the plastic surgeon and I'm starting to get very anxious.









Me Before at 339lbs

Me today at 152lbs.


November 12, 2005
I did hear from the insurance company. I got approved for the breast reduction but not the tummy tuck and the medial thigh lifts. It's all very frustrating. I have put in an appeal to BCBS and I'm praying that they will see that this surgery is medically necessary and not cosmetic. Today I weight in at 150lbs after gaining about 8lbs back and getting back up to 160lbs, I just dropped. Technically it's only 2lbs of loss but every lb counts. What's kinda weird is that I dropped it on the first day of my period. I'm hoping I can drop another 5lbs before my surgery which is schedule for December 5th.

November 25th, 2005
Today was just the icing on the cake. Darned if the guy in maintenance at work backed right over top of my car. It's a 99' stratus complete paid off. We just sunk $600.00 in the air conditioner to get it fixed because it had something to do with the S belt. Anyway I'm sure they are gonna screw us over and just total the thing. Which doesn't help us at all. Now we will have a car payment.

November 27th, 2005
Still waiting for word from BCBS about my Tummy Tuck. I just pray it's good news. I go tomorrow for my pre admission testing before my breast surgery. I'm excited a little. I just feel it in my gut that I'll be approved for the TT also. I weighted in at 148lbs.
FINALLY!!!!!!!!!UNDER 150LBS. I can't wait until I can get off the next 10lbs. I'd like to get to 130lbs but I'll be happy with 140lbs

November 29, 2005
Stillllllllllllllllllll waiting for word from BCBS. I finally got up the nerve to call them today only to be DISAPPOINTED!. They haven't even reviewed my case. They were suppose to get back with me by the 24th and they haven't EVEN reviewed my case. Today is Tuesday and Monday is my surgery. I'm so ready to blow a gasket. Dr. Louis said he would book out the room for the day for me so he can do both procedures (provided they approve it) The breast are the only thing approved at this point in time. Dr. Louis seems so nice. Just pray he is a good surgeon. LOL
He is also easy on the eyes.

Got word today that they are totalling my car. I hate that. My car was in good shape and we had put so much money in the darn thing because we had no car payment.


December 1, 2005
I finally got the word today on my approval for the abdominoplasty. Nothing like waiting til the last minute. My surgery is scheduled for December 5th. I called the insurance company today and they told me that they could not tell me over the phone. I'd have to wait til I received the letter and they could NOT guarantee that the letter would be mailed as of today. Thank heavens that Tina at Dr. Louis office knew that she could get the information. They told her that I was approved for the abdominoplasty but denied for the medial thigh lifts. I'm so grateful that I got the TT approved. I'll eventually get the thighs done but I'll have to save for it awhile. YOOOHOOO!!!! Can't wait til Monday and It will be done. I'm nervous as heck too and scared a wee bit of the pain but.... it will all be great.





December 4, 2005
It snowed here today. I've really come to loathe the snow. Funny when I was a kid I loved it. Heck you get out of school. When you are an adult it's just a real pain in the butt. Anyway, I got my new van yesterday. I'm thrilled with it. I just hate that I'm gonna have to let my husband drive it for the next month since I'll be out of work because of the surgery. I hope he doesn't stink it up. LOL He's worse than me after having the GB. LOL AND I know you all know what I mean by that. Tomorrow is the big day. I'm getting a wee bit nervous and scared even though surgery is becoming old hat for me. This is almost as good as the Gastric Bypass. Life just keeps getting better. And at 43 I need all the better I can get. Just wish I could remember it. LOL

December 16, 2005
I am now 11 days post op from having my breast reduction and abdominoplasty (anchor incision). It has been a tough one. The pain is a bit different from other surgeries as it's more of a stinging pain. My stomach and breast are healing very nicely. My incision of course like usually is opening in a few spots but it's nothing major. I think I look great even though my boobs are quite small now. Which is very weird since I've never had less than a DD but they are where God intended them to be instead of my waist.

Dr. Louis has been fantastic. He's such a doll baby and so concerned with his patients. I could tell he was very proud of his work. He came in and told me that my stomach was so flat that it was concave. It's still very flat but majorily swollen right now but I can certainly wear the low rise jeans now. I'm getting a teenagers body with an old lady face LOL. Now I think I need a face lift. LOL. I can see where one plastic surgery leads to another. You fix one thing and it looks rediculous with everything else falling apart and sagging. Unfortunately I gotta be satisfied as I am poor. Anyway, just wanted to do the update to my ever changing body. It is weird going in with one body and coming out with one that doesn't resemble your own. My belly button is high and proud and my breast are tiny and pretty proud too. I think I am gonna look great. The pannus didn't weight as much as I had thought it would as it was mostly skin. Weight around 6 lbs and only 1/2lb out of each breast. Unfortunately my breast had most of the tissue was gone from the weightloss and they have to take a 1/2lb out for insurance purposes. My boobs today are probably a size c small d because they are swollen but I figure they will settle around a b cup. All in all I'm very pleased with my surgery and my surgeon.










I am really swollen in these pictures but I am 11 days post op Tummy Tuck and Breast Reduction. Dr. Louis told me that I will probably need a revision in his office for the top of my incision as the swelling stretched the skin again. Unfortunately he said that he tightened as much as possible but the skin is so broken from the Obesity that it just can't hold it's shape like it once could. Oh well, I'm not trying to be a model. I think I look good anyway. Look out low rise jeans. LOL





12/19/05
For anyone who might be interested in an appeal letter I am posting mine. It's nothing fancy just to the point. I just showed them that I met there requirements.




November 2, 2005


Independence Blue Cross
The Appeals Department
(There Address)

Re: Reference #
Name & Address
Abdominoplasty & Medial Thigh Lift Appeal

To Whom It May Concern:

This letter is in response to my denial for Abdominoplasty and Medial Thigh Lifts with Dr. John T. Louis. Your insurance company gave me approval on my Open Gastric Bypass on April 12, 2004. I am 5’2” tall and was over 340 at my highest weight and had a BMI of 62, which put me in the Super Morbidly Obese category. I am currently at a weight of 145 and have lost over 190lbs total. The bypass has enabled me to be a much healthier person for which I am very grateful. However many of the problems that have been associated with my Obesity still persist even after losing this massive amount of weight. I suffer from Depression, Fibromyalgia and chronic re-occurring upper and lower back pain. Unfortunately during the rapid weight loss and having destroyed the skin with my years of suffering from obesity, I have been left with a 10-15lb mass of skin hanging from hip bone to hip bone. The reason I am requesting this abdominoplasty and thigh lift is to be able to move without constant pain from the tugging and pulling on my back and the constant skin infections as a result of this.

I now suffer from chronic consistent rashes under my Pannus area that are extremely painful and unhygienic. The area becomes extremely raw almost in a blistered scalded state and oozes a yellowish discharge that emits a foul odor. This discharge not only smells horrible it leaves a stain on my clothing as well. I have been self-medicating the area with Lotrimin, Tinactin, Gold Bond Powders, antibacterial soaps as well as many other home and over the counter remedies. Nothing that I have done has been able to alleviate the problem. I have been to my primary care physician to get help with the situation and was given Ketoconazole 2% Cream 60 Grams, which helps but does not get rid of these infections. I wear a soft sock under the area to help with the rubbing and friction but this is not very effective either. These eruptions normally will last anywhere from 3-7 days and return normally in about a week to two weeks (if I am lucky). I suffer with these infections under the Pannus area, the juncture of my thighs, my belly button, under arm pits, back of the knees and under my breast. I’ve tried blow drying the areas and using anti-perspirants to no avail. These infections have severely limited my desire to have personal contact with my husband. I just never feel clean and am very embarrassed from the odor. Not to mention the pain involved. Imagine what it must feel like to have your skin scalded with hot water on a consistent basis. It burns and is extremely sore. In the beginning it is very itchy also. I feel this almost all the time. It’s like being tortured by your own body. Nothing that will kill you but it can certainly work on your mind and your self esteem. As a person who is already diagnosed with clinical depression this only adds to that problem.

Before my RNY, I was limited to walking no more than just a few feet and was only able to do this with the assistance of a cane. I suffer with Degenerative Osteoarthritis with major damage to my knee joints that will need to be replaced in the near future. The huge mass of hanging skin from the Pannus now makes me over compensate when I walk and puts extra stress on my lower back and legs. Exercising and walking can be an uncomfortable problem as the pull and tug of extra skin flapping with each movement. I do wear support panty hose as well as stomach and thigh girdles to help support the extra skin

I hope you will look into my case with a new sense of urgency as the problems that I have are a direct result of my disease of Obesity. I feel that if I had been diagnosed with cancer and my breast had to be taken you would have no problems approving reconstructive surgery. These issues that I suffer from are no less debilitating than if I had Cancer. This 10-15 lb mass of hanging skin is no less of an issue than if I had a cyst that was growing from my abdomen. I do not want to be a failure in my fight to live a relatively normal life. After reviewing the following information that you have posted on your website I cannot understand why you have chosen to deny my rights to have these procedures as I suffer with more than the requirements that you have presented.

• The panniculus hangs to or below the level of the pubis
AND
• The patient’s medical record documents that the hanging panniculus causes skin irritation or infection (resulting in pain, ulceration, superpubic intertrigo, monilial infestation, or panniculitis that is chronic, persistent, and refractory to medical treatment for at least a 3 month period. Examples of agents that may be used for conservative treatment are antifungal, antibacterial, or moisture-absorbing agents; topically applied skin barriers; and supportive garments.

I am currently scheduled to have a breast reduction (for which you approved) with Dr. Louis on December 5, 2005 and would like to have this procedure done at the same time. My hope is that you will review expeditiously this letter, my primary care physician’s letter, as well as the photos and other documentation that I have provided for your consideration and reconsider your decision as I do meet the qualifications as outlined in your policy. This letter is my attempt at helping you to understand who I am and see my case with a new sense as to why this surgery is such an important issue in my fight against Obesity.

Very Truly Yours,



Donna Dail Lebedynsky



Photo as of December 19, 2005

2006


January 3, 2006
My Tummy Tuck and Breast Reduction are healing rather nicely now. The stomach is still puffy and not as flat as I believe it will be but it's coming along nicely. I'm now down to about 140lbs. I'm hoping when some of the swelling goes down I can reach about 135lbs. Either way I am going to be pusing for the 135. The difficulties with my pouch seem to be resolving on it's own. I can now eat without as much difficulty as I was having. That was some terrible pain I was having. I can wear a size 8 now. Not all 8's but definitely can fasten an 8 and be comfortable in it. I never thought it would be possible for me to get down to 126lbs which is suppose to be the PERFECT size for me. Says who? LOL I'm sure it was a man. Anyway I think it actually could be a possibility. I mean its only 14lbs and that is definitely doable. Consider I weighted in at over 350lbs. I've lost over 200lbs, what's another 14lbs. I need to get serious about exercising. I'd like to keep these tightened muscles tight. Plus my arms and thighs have not been done and I wonder if working them out and building muscles would help with the droopies that I have. I will be updating my plastic pictures shortly (provided I find my digital camera that I lost over the christmas holidays).



January 8, 2006
I took photos of my incisions and put them on my site. I have the password album for the unclothed photos. The password is ps if you would like to see them. It's mostly of the Breast Reduction. It's kinda hard to get used to seeing my breast so small but I'm thrilled with them anyway. I do however have a few places that are going to have to be revised.

February 19, 2006
Well I had my checkup with Dr. Louis. He gave me such a great deal on my thighs. He told me that he would do it for $1500.00. That's an incredible deal. unfortunately I'm afraid I won't be able to have it done. The anesthesia/hospital would be an additional $1500.00 and $3000.00 is beyond me for right now. It really bites to miss out on this deal. The Doctor is a saint.

I'm still having problems with my malnutrition. I had an upper GI done. The radiologist all but told me that I have an ulcer. I throw up all most daily. Suffering majorily from anemia. I have my iron infusion on monday. I hurt everyday. I can't wait til I can get back to normal. I know that day will come. I have my EGD done on the 23rd. I'm really kinda of tired of visiting Doctors. I'm ready to go home.

February 24, 2006
Dr. Bonanni did my EDG and told me that I have a 3cm ulcer in my duodenum (opening of small intestines). I saw it and its huge and ugly. Hurts like heck too. I'll be glad when it heals up. I don't know how I did it but I managed to gain 5lbs. YIKES! Scary gaining. Gotta get my butt back to the gym. I've been sooo lazy as of late. I keep blaming it on the iron deficiency.

Glitter Graphics

March 9, 2006
Still having Ulcer pain. Wish it would go away. I finally broke down and did measurements of my body. I'm not as out of proportion as I initially thought I was. My daughter is now wearing my clothes. Which means I will never have anything again to wear.
My measurements today are

Bust: 38 1/2"
Waist: 27"
Hips: 38 inches. (way too big)

I still have alot of swelling in the waist and stomach area so I'm hoping that the waist will be about 26" when it finally calms down some. I have lost the weight I packed back on. I'm now down to 138lbs again at least for now. I will be going tomorrow to see about getting a home equity loan to get my thighs done. I'm ready to have the surgery like yesterday. It's almost summer and I will never be able to wear shorts right now. I look like I have elephant legs. All wrinkly like a Sharpai. Panty hose hold it up pretty well but if you have to wear those it's kinda like defeating the purpose of the shorts. My iron feels low again and I can really feel it. I have to really focus on the nutrition again and quit eating just to eat.

March 24th
I had a followup appointment with Dr. Bonanni. He will always be my hero. I think I actually love this man. LOL He did tell me that I will have to be scoped again in about 6 weeks because my ulcer is so large. I hate that thought but I guess you do what you have to do. I'm getting so much better these days. I absolutely love the new me. I'm starting to feel sexy again.

March 30th
I went to see Dr. Louis today. He's such a doll. Handsome and sweet. I hate he is moving away to Florida. He is going to be doing my surgery on April 14th. I can't wait to have it done. A bit nervous about having it done but he did such a wonderful job on the other surgeries and I'm sure it's going to be great. I just have to work hard on getting some protein in for the healing. I hope it doesn't really affect my ulcer or my iron. I'm going to have to be very deligient about taking my vitamins and my iron. Ready to say goodbye to this hanging blobs on my thighs.

April 1
I went for my first bra measurement at Victoria Secret. I was shocked. She said I measure a 34DD. I still don't believe it. However the bra fit fine. I would have never guessed. I think I'm more of a D cup at most in normal bras. Their bras must run small. Oh well. 34DD sounds good. I guess VS bra's I'm a 34DD. Very weird. I can't believe I still have that healthy of a chest.

April 13
Getting ready for my surgery tomorrow on my thighs. I can't wait to say goodbye to the blobs. I've hated these heavy legs so long I forget. Hopefully after tomorrow they will look somewhat normal again. I know not great but at least where I don't feel like an odd ball when I put on a pair of shorts. Scars I can deal with. I look like a patchwork quilt right now. I still look better than I did at 350lbs. Gotta remember to call Dr. Bonanni to set up my EDG to look at my huge ulcer. I think it's healing though because I can eat like Ms. Piggy on her period.

April 27
I am now 13 days post op thighplasty and doing very well I think. I have some discomfort still but the pain is minimal. I do sometimes have a hard time falling to sleep. Could be the anemia I keep fighting. I went to my PCP yesterday to get an ear wax plug cleaned out of my ears and he got upset because my blood pressure was 80/50. He said it was wayyy to low and he thinks it's the anemia. My daughter told me that I now look like a cancer patient. Isn't that nice to know. I think my blood levels are way down again because I feel like totally crap again. I had no clue it was going to always be a struggle to maintain good nutrition. It's not quick fix. I'm still happy I'm soo much thinner than I was. I weight about 132lbs now.
May 2, 2006
Well I got a call from Dr. Song, my hemotologist, he was concerned about my iron so I have to see him this monday about the iron infusion and he is really worried about me absorbing. I am now at 128lbs. YESSSSSSSSS! only 3lbs from losing 100% of my excess weight. What a miracle it has all been. I'm progressively getting better. I hate the holes that I have in my thighs but I know it will get better. It just takes time. Going home to North Carolina tomorrow. My parents 50th wedding anniversary. I just hope my parents stay healthy enough to make it through the ceremony. My mom has breast cancer and blood clots of the lungs and dad has kidney and heart disease sooo bad. I think the whole family is falling apart. I can't wait to see them. It's been since Christmas. Long time to go without seeing your family. I have to call Dr. Bonanni to set up my EDG to view my ulcer. I will be having it done at Abington Hospital this time. I can't imagine not having Dr. Bonanni as my doctor. I'd never consider NOT going with him on his move. He is my Savior!

May 12, 2006
I feel so much like crap. I can barely move these days. I sleep all the time and I can't get myself out of the bed. I've been taking my vitamins religiously but now I seem to be having stomach problems again and eatiing is TOUGH. I am still losing weight so thats a bit scary now. I can still lose another 10-15lbs but I don't particularly want to be down to 110lbs. I think I'll look like a skeleton. My daughter says I look like a cancer patient now. I'm getting a wee bit scared. I called Dr. Bonanni's new office so I go to see him there on the 23rd of May. He is going to do an EDG to check my ulcer. I have a feeling it's not doing so good from the way my stomach has been feeling. I guess it could be a virus but it sure is taking it's own sweet time to leave. Like 2 weeks now.

May 26, 2006
I went to see Dr. Bonanni at his new digs. Finally found the place. I was thrilled to see him, Paul and Jamie there. I am scheduled for my EDG on the 21st of June. Not looking forward to another of these things but What can you do.

I have gained weight. YIKES! About 7 lbs. (yeah and me worried about not absorbing) It's scarring me as I've been able to eat like I'm starving to death. I did take my measurements today because although I've gained weight my pants are falling off of me now. I have my monthly so I'm hoping the gain is water. Anyway my measurements are sooooo different from what they used to be. It really is freaky when you think about it. I'm 37 in the chest, 27 in the waist and 38 in the hips. Not perfect measurements but pretty dang good concidering what they were. I can wear a 6 pants now for the most part.
div>
Glitter Graphics

June 15, 2006
Well I've had some problems with my left leg swelling about 2" bigger than the right leg. I called Dr. Louis and he thought it might be a blood clot and said I needed a doppler on my leg. He couldn't see me so I went to my primary care Doc. He sent me to the hospital to have a stat doppler. Good news is I don't have a clot. I did get into see Dr. Louis today and he said everything looked ok that it's probably just a sluggish lymphatic system. I don't know. Anyway I was advised to get some support hose. This swelling is miserable. My ankle is 2" on the left side bigger than the one on the right. The calve is also bigger. My waist has been going from 27" in the morning to 33" by the evening. I don't remember swelling this much with my last surgery. Anyway I guess things will eventually get back to normal. Fluid retention could be the reason for my weight gain. Nurse told me that. I'm sure it's not all of the weight gain but a few lbs of it.

This photo is of the swelling of my legs. I was 10 weeks post op here from the thighplasty. Turns out I have Phlebitis in the leg. I have to go back because it isn't getting better. There is some drooping of the right knee. The skin is loosening up quite a bit again. It's kinda of depressing but it still looks better than before the thighplasty.
June 21, 2006
I had my EDG today to look at my ulcer and major blessings it was gone. Totally healed up. Thank you jesus. I have to go back in 3 months just for a check up but I'm doing great. I figured it must be as I have no problems eating at all these days. Other than eating toooo much. Wish I could control myself more. Anyway I'm thrilled but fat. LOL

July 5, 2006
I've put on so much weight I feel like choking myself. My 6's are darn near impossible to get on and the 8's are well on their way to being too small. I did not want to get back to a 10 but it looks like I will be there before much longer. I weighed in at the YMCA today and I was 138lbs by their scales. I joined the Y in hopes of exercising off this additional weight. I feel so fat right now I can't stand it. Well Dr. B's scales had me at 141lbs 3 weeks ago and I've managed to loose a few lbs. I have another 20lbs to go to get to where i want to be. I figured it up on fitday that I will need to loose .6678lbs per week in order to be there by December. I hope I can muster it up. My legs are soooo sore from working out and I'm such a couch potato that its all new to me. I do have to say that exercising was much easier being smaller. I had no problems doing 30 minutes on the elipticial and before I'd die at even 1 minute on it. I love the hot tub though and the swimming pool. It makes it all worth it. Plus the hot bodies working on the weight machines. LOL Dirty old woman here.

July 17, 2006
I went to see my primary care about my phlebitis. He has now referred me to a cardiovaschular surgeon. So I guess it's one more doctor to see. I also had to go see Dr. Song about my anemia. After 4 iron infusions I am back to normal. Hooray! Now it's a matter of seeing how long I can go before I have to be infused again. I don't see him again until 3 months unless the blood work from my blood clotting factors pop up a red flag. He is testing me to see if my blood clots are hereditary. My mother has blood clots in her lungs.

August 10, 2006
I went to the Cardiovascular sugeon on the 27th of July and she did a quick examination on me and diagnosed me with Lymphedema. She looked at my incision from my thighplasty and just said thats what your problem is. Your surgeon removed or disected the lymph node and now your lymphatic system has shut down. You could get deformities of the leg, ulcers, cellulitis, lose your leg or your life. Now I'm sitting there with my jaw just hanging having no clue what she's talking about and trying to absorb the enormity of the situation. She preceeds to carry me up front to the secretary to get me set up for all this stuff. You have to be fitted for a compression pump right away and physical therapy. I'm still not moving or saying much of anything because I'm quite frankly in shock from the whole thing. The secretary calls all these people and starts giving me all these scripts for stuff. The doc comes back by and says "You do understand how serious this is right?". I'm kinda shaking my head. Well after she gets me signed up for a CAT Scan with contrast, a physical therapy appointment (which won't happen until september 7th.) so much for in a hurry and I've actually talked to the supplier of the compression boot on the phone. Wow talk about your head spinning. Well I have an appointment with my hemotologist office at the Cancer Center right after this. I finally make my way over to the cancer center where I'm sitting in the recliner and I just start boohoooing like a big old baby. I told the nurse I was sooo sorry and I felt bad because all those people sitting there with cancer and I'm crying for myself. She just hugged me and told me that the diagnosis wasn't good and that if I wanted to cry not to feel bad about it.

Well today I had the CAT Scan done. Had to drink like 64 ounces of grape juice with this nasty stuff mixed in it. Let me tell you 64 ounces of juice is rough on it's own to drink. Juice makes me dump big time. When I say I dump it's not vomiting or diarrhea. It's the palipitations, headache and the comotose sleeping stage. Well they also tell me I have to have an IV. My veins are crap so of course the first one crapped out and they had to start another. However I must say that the hospital workers were great and got me in and out of there fast. Now I have no clue what happens as Dr. Rosa did not make me a return visit to her office.

I have since gotten my compression boot which I've now used for a little over a week. Twice a day for an hour at the time I have deligently put this annoying damn thing on. I can't imagine that this is for life. I'm probably the worst patient on earth. I never follow instructions and with this disease it seems that deligent treatment is necessary just to maintain some normalcy. After the guy came for the pump and told me how bad some peoples legs are I'm more terrified than ever. He told me of one guy who has a 52" leg. Can you imagine that? And the guy has lymphatic fluid just pouring out of his leg. I see improvement after I have done the pump but by the end of the day it's right back. I'm not sure what good this thing is doing. It just appears to be dissapating momentarily and returning shortly thereafter. I'm more depressed than ever. I'm looking to have a second opinion. I just can't except that I did this to myself. No one ever said to me that Plastic Surgery came with these risks. I just wanted normal looking legs and now I could possibly have a deformed leg or worse to loose it all together. I just cannot imagine. As I sit here all that grape juice is attacking my intestines. I've never heard such a noise coming from my bowels. LOL Hope I make it on the drive home with no mishaps. Sounds like alot of water swishing around in there.

August 16th, 2006
And one more twist in the Donna Saga. I came home yesterday to two messages. One was from Dr. Doghramji and one was from Dr. Rosa. Seems like the CT Scan results were in. I couldn't call them back because I was so late getting home to get the message. Went into work and low and behold a 2 messages from Dr. Rosa on my machine. Well after phone tag I finally talked to Dr. Rosa and she informed me that my CT Scan turned up another problem. Nothing to do with the lymphedema at all. I have a HUGE cyst on my right ovary or perhaps 2 small ones and one on my left ovary. The report says that it could possibly be on the bowel as there is dilatation of the entire small bowel diameter (whatever the heck that means). It is not possible to exclude ovarian neoplasm. Less likely these cysts are arising from mesentary or bowel area. What the heck is a mesenteric cysts or bowel duplication cysts? Anyway its just another DAMN test I have to take now. My grandmother died of ovarian cancer so now I gotta be scared that I have it. After scaring me to death and telling me I need to see a gyn right away. I called Dr. Kolter who saw me today at 2:30. He is very nice and very calming unlike Dr. Rosa who scared the crap out of me and had me crying for hours. He said my case was interesting. He also said had I not had the Lymphedema and the CT Scan they might not have caught this. Whatever it is it's better to find it than to just let it progress. The cysts is 77 x 44 mm or 3" x 1.73". You'd think I would have felt it. No cramping nothing. So for whatever reason I am HIT with another road block. I'm starting to get very very tired. I don't ever want to see another doctor again. They keep finding shit wrong with me. Why can't I just be normal? So I now have to get a pelvic ultrasound and a bloodtest CA125 something or other. I guess it's going to be a long 2 weeks. Happy frickin Birthday to me.

August 21, 2006
Today I got back the pelvic ultrasound results. They have just got me more confused. It says that I have a cyst on the left and the right ovaries but these are small are functional cyst and are of no concern. The big boy cysts does not show up on the ovaries. It basically says that it must be on the mesentary or bowel. Sooooooo I guess it's no longer a female thing but a bowel thing. I faxed everything over to Dr. Bonanni. He isn't in his office but on Friday's so I won't get to see him until the 10th of September. Not his fault though as they could see me on the 1st but I am going home to North Carolina be damned come hell or high water. I just feel like screaming. I cannot believe that I have to go through all of this. I just wish someone would tell me that I am ok and nothing is wrong with me. My weight keeps going up. Danged I'm up to 145lbs as of today. I feel like a pig. I can't stop eating. I'm a stress eater and the stress is unbearable right now. I'm just flat out terrified and tired. Dealing with this compression boot 2 hours a day is annoying. I'm trying to be upbeat but it's just becoming too much. I hope tomorrow is better than today. I'm looking for my rainbow.


February 7, 2007
Wow! It has been awhile since I updated my profile. I used to do this religiously. I'm nearly 3 years out from my gastric bypass. Life is pretty normal these days. My issue with the cysts worked out ok. Nothing there according to the docs and I can only trust them. The lymphedema still persists. A miracle didn't get rid of it. The leg is approximately 2" larger than the other one. Just another road block for me but nothing I can't handle. I try to follow the plan and massage the leg and wear my compression stocking. I've never been a wonderful patient so of course following the rules is NOT a me kinda thing. I have gained up to about 145-148lbs. I wish I could get the weight off but it just feels like it is stuck to me for good. I have forgotten how to diet. My nutrition still sucks. I have to undergo another IV Venofer infusion. It is only 7 months since the last one and I really hoped it would be longer between infusions but my ferritin is at 2 and the doctor said I have absolutely nothing left to pull from so it's important that I get this done. Oh well it is now my life. I'd still have all the surgeries knowing the pitfalls. I like being normal. Well a little overweight but nothing I can't deal with. I still wear 8's and 10's (mostly 10's).

2/13/07
My leg is all swollen now right where the seroma that was supposed to absorb (which of course didn't). It has been 10 months since my thighplasty and now it decided to flame up. It's beat red and hurts like heck. A little scary. It's snowing and the doctors office has no one in.

2/15/07
Well I got up with a Doctor today. I saw the new one. She was very nice but basically said that I needed to see Dr. Monteiro about it. She marked it up with a pen and told me to keep a check on it and see if the infection gets larger. She gave me Bactrim for it. It's about the size of a baseball now and hurts like a MF. Tomorrow I go for my IV Venofer Infusion. I really dread it but I know it's part of my life now. I just wonder how much more I have to endure with all this. The Lymphedema, the IV infusions and now the dang seroma. I'm a little depressed. Hope that life gets back to normal soon

3/17/07
Had my visit with Dr. Monteiro and he asperated the darn seroma thing and left it soooo sore. Nothing like repeatedly sticking it with a needle to make it feel better LOL. Anyway, he won't see me again for another month. Perhaps surgery but who knows. He is not warm and fuzzy at all. He has the personality of a wet noodle. I hear he is a great surgeon though so that might be a plus. Anyway its all on hold until April. I had my last iron infusion. Thank god. At least for another 6-8 months.

4/4/07
Saw Dr. Monteiro and he said that he wasn't going to do anything for the seroma. Let's just hope it doesn't flare up again or I am gonna be royally pissed. I swear I feel like the man just doesn't want to deal with me at all. Not my fav doc.

4/12/07
Happy Birthday to me! Three years post op today. I can't believe 3 years ago I weighted in at over 330lbs. I am now struggling with a 20lb gain. I can't wear my 8's and my 10's are TIGHT as heck but I'm refusing to go to a 12 if I have to bust my seems. I have started watching my calorie intake. I lost like 3lbs. Not much but something at least. I want to loose at least another 10-15lbs. I should probably lose about 25lbs but I ain't a model and I'm 44 years old so I'm not looking to be twiggy. I'd be happy at 135lbs. I'm at 147lbs YIKES

April 25, 2007
Well I'm now back down to 140-142lbs and my 10's fit fine now. Which is good. I thought I was going to have to get a whole new wardrobe again. I have at least 5 more lbs to go. My lymphedema is MUCH worse now. My leg was about 4" larger than the other one and my waist is growing 5" in a day. I will work hard on the massaging to keep the fluid down. I am eating much better as of late. My protein has been increased tremendously and I've laid off of the chocolate.









Below my goal at 138lbs. This outfit made my daughter cry when she saw me in it. It was amazing. I think it really hit her after seeing me come from 350+ lbs to see me get to this point! That was my biggest Wow moment having her realize that I've come that far and her be that proud of me. It's all been worth it. Even though I'm going through some really tough times lately. My labs are really bad and I hurt all the time. BE SURE TO TAKE YOUR VITAMINS! I didn't realize how bad you can get and so quickly.


July 12, 2007
Well I am now at 150lbs and gaining rapidly. I'm scared itless that I am going to gain it all back. I went to the doctor today because of a back strain problem and I finally had to give in and ask to go back on my depression medicine. It's like a viscious cycle. My depression makes my weight gain more and my weight gain makes me more depressed. I'm stressed at work and on top of that I got a ticket today. I'm having fun tmes. I did muster up enough strength to photograph myself again. I'm plumper but not too bad I guess. I'm wearing 10's mostly with some 12's. They are getting closer and closer. Last year I wore a size 4 & 6.

August 16, 2007
Well I got up to 155lbs. I'm now at 146lbs. YESSS! I've finally lost weight. A whole 9 lbs just drinking water and cutting out my snacks. I have got to keep myself on track. For all you newbies, please remember IT IS NOT PERMANENT OR FOREVER. It takes a lot of hard work and commitment to your health. I want to lose at least another 10lbs. Prefer 20 but I'd be happy with a nice comfortable size.

December 21, 2007
I haven't updated my profile in some time now. I've had alot of problems lately. I went to the doctor in October for lower back pain. They told me it was a kidney infection but he wanted to check out the kidney so I was sent for a CT Scan. Gotta call saying that the cysts that were supposedly gone from last year had grown to 8CM on the right side and the other one was almost 6CM. My grandmother died of ovarian cancer so again (same as last year) I got terrified. To make a long story short and 2 MRI's and a trip to the emergency room. I ended up having a cyst that had been there from birth and just decided to grow. It was benign thank goodness. I also had Adenomyosis. I had a hysterectomy and right ovary removal on December 4th. WOW, what a horrible surgery. Not painful but tired as heck. I can't seem to bounce back from this one. Good news is that I am now down to 130lbs again. Not a good way to do it but it is nice being back into my size 6 & 8'S. Well I just wanted to update my profile since it had been so long. I guess I need to get my butt busy packing my vehicle. I'm going back home to North Carolina for the holidays! YIPEEE!!!!

April 2, 2008
Wow! I haven't updated my profile in sooo long. It's almost four years now since my surgery. Still have problems with my back. I am down to 125lbs now. My lowest since my surgery. 224lbs loss now. I am right about where I want to be with my weight. I just hope I can maintain it. I don't want to get over 140lbs. I finally reached my goal. It just took me 4 years.

August 1, 2008
I haven't updated this profile in so long it seems. I'm still losing weight at four years out. I now weight around 115lbs and size 4's are falling off of me. I think I have another ulcer. I hate to admit that I haven't been back to the docs for 2 years now but with all the weightloss I'm ready to go back. I wish I could say I was one of those people who did what they should and took their vitamins and eat the protein. I have terrible habits and I really need to get more focused on maintaining a healthy weight. I look like a skeleton these days. I hate that it all comes from my face. I know that I am not healthy. I lack any strength anymore and my back hurts so bad from years of abuse and hauling around 350lbs. I suffer from what the doctor calls psyatic joint dysfunction. There is never a day without pain. I had become so hooked on sleeping pills it has taken four days without sleep to finally break that bad habit. Unfortunately I take Advil way too much which I'm sure is leading the the ulcer problem. Anyone who thinks this is an easy way to loose weight is very clueless. I still though in all the difficulties think this surgery saved my life and I would do it again tomorrow. Guess it's time for another iron infusion. I was hoping that would all end with the hysterectomy but unfortunately my anemia and B12 is still horrible and I se a hemotologist. I added my last photo that was taken in April when I was at 122. I lost another 7 lbs in the past 3 weeks.



122LBS. NOW I'M 115LBS. LAST SUMMER I WAS 158LBS. I HAD GAINED 33LBS BACK.

You scored as Passion. You are very passionate whether that passion is good or evil has yet to be determined. You have great power over others and they seem to flock to your service. You are very competative almost to a fault. Perhaps you should let someone else win for a change? Passion 67% Mysterious 58% Eyes full of Pain 33% Diamond Eyes 8% What do your eyes reveal about you?(PICS!) created with QuizFarm.com

My surgeons website HERE

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