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The Irish L.
Brazoria, TX, USA
Post Op - BMI: 20.6
Surgery Type: RNY
Member ID: S1062167328
Surgeon: Robert Davis, M.D.

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Before I start to tell you what life has been like for me I would like to Thank Jesus My Saviour for giving me a life.


Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.
Psalm 119:105



I have been overweight almost all of my life. I have two very beautiful sisters and they are very petite. My older sister is very concerned that I am even considering this. However, she has never had a weight problem and all the baggage that goes along with it. ( no pun intended ) I have heard all of my life that I really need to go on a diet from family members. I think that if one more person tells me that I have a pretty face I just need to lose weight I will scream! I have tried every possilbe diet there is on the market both over the counter and scrips. I fear at this point in my life that if I don't get a handle on my weight that it will result in more serious health problems in the future than I already have. I want to be able to ride the rides at Six Flags without hearing people behind me laugh when I don't fit in the sit. I would love to go out and not hear other ladies make comments about my size. I want to be able to go shopping and buy the clothes I want instead of the ones that fit. I am very active and don't eat a lot. I am not sure why I cannot lose the weight.

I am now using two different meds for breathing and I have a lot of pain in my lower back, knees, and ankels. There is a small part of me that wonders if anything will ever help. I can only pray to God that I am making the right decision in seeking out medical help. I am very new in the process and I have not even finished researching Dr.'s yet. If there is anyone out there that can help with any advice please feel free to do so. Thxs.


OCTOBER

10/13/2003
Today Is one of the worst days of my life thus far. I found out today that my insurance doesn't cover any type of obesity surgery. I cryed for a while and now I am just depressed about it. I am not sure how to shake it either. I have shared my info, feelings, and thoughts with my husband and he just doesn't understand. I really not sure why he is not being supportive of me now. He feels I can just exercise and eat right and the weight will come off. I am not sure what to do now. If there is anyone out there that can help me with advise or has had the same thing happen to them What do I do next? Thxs.

10/14/03
I am soooo happy!!!!! I spoke to CS @ Humana and I was told that even with the exclusion on my policy it can be covered by medical necessity. (hope that was spelled right) Keep me in your prayers!! Thxs.

10/17/03
I am excited to say that I have an appt to meet with Dr. Robert Davis on 10/29/03. After speaking with my new dear friend Jolene I was told that was really quick. In Texas the waiting list is quite extensive. I would have went the Wens. of 10/15/03 but I had a church function. The Dr. is out of town this Wens. 10/22/03 so I will see him the following week. Keep me in your prayers. I have been keeping all of this to myself. I finally told the ladies at my prayer meeting yesterday and well my Momma-law is not a happy camper about it. I am really not getting a whole lot of support in this except for from my daughter and my sister. God love them!!!! I know if may seem as though I am writing on here everyday but this is the best thing to happen to me in the last year and a half. I will write more later as things develope. Thxs.

10/20/03
Please say a prayer for me today...I am quiting smoking today.
:-) If nothing else it will get my daughter something to smile about. She has been on me to quit for a number of years. Also pray for my husband to hold out to the end. te-he-he-he. Thxs.

10/24/03
Hello all, I sit here with my coffee and I am wondering if anyone can help me with a certain problem I have been having from time to time. I am very excited about having an apt. with Dr. Davis, and getting the whole ball rolling, so to speak. However, there are times when I get this pit in the bottom of my stomach, almost like butterflies. I am sure that I am doing the right thing researching this avenue. I have prayed that if I am being vain or going against what God wants me to do that the doors be closed to me. I'll tell ya I started to give up hope when I saw that there was an exclusion on my policy. I thought well God you have shut that door. But when I spoke to the Insurance company and they told me that it would be possible for them to pay I though THANK YOU LORD!!!!!!! I guess it is just stepping outside of the comfort zone that is just a lil scary. Continue to Pray for me as I always need prayer! Thxs

10/28/03
Well tomorrow is the day...I will have my consult with Dr. Davis. Even though I researched for hours and wrote all my question down. I feel as though I am actually getting started now. I even branched out and posted on the message board today. I have never been a shy person, but it took a lil time on here to come out of my shell. I have received some great e-mail and I thank each and every one of you for all of you support!! My husband is getting a little better about all of this. Say a prayer for him, his name is Delbert but he goes by Big D. I spoke with Jolene on the phone and she was telling me that it is common for the Husband to be scared. I pray for him all of the time. God does answer prayer!!!

Anyway say a lil prayer today or tonight or both for me. Thxs!

10/29/03
Well today was the day...I went and seen Dr. Davis and he was great. I really liked his repore. He is in practice with his son and they do the surgeries together. I was set up with all of the info that I need to get my paperwork together and I was on my way. However, when I got home I called Humana Pre-Cert. and I spoke with a gentleman that told me that if there is an exculsion on my policy that even with the medical paperwork to back up the necessity of the surgery that they would deny the claim out flat.

Everyone who has this hope in him purifies himself, just as he is pure. I John 3:3

Thats right I have hope, and faith, MY GOD IS AN AWESOME GOD. I believe that if I do it all the way I am suppose to that MY GOD will find the way for me. Say a prayer for me...as I always need prayer. Thxs.

10/31/03
Well I am on the road to battle it out with the insurance company. I have my letter together thanks to the help of Melissa Nickels. Thxs, so much Melissa!!!! I have an apt with my PCP today and I think I will be getting a letter from him easier than I expected. So I will be calling today and setting apts. for the sleep study and physic eval. and I will be getting a letter from my orthopedic surgion regarding my heel spurs...don't know if that will help but it can't hurt. I thank all of you for your prayers. I can feel them in my spirit and they are working please keep it up. I will write more when I have more. Thxs.

NOVEMBER

11/02/03
I am going for my blood work test tomorrow. I am hoping to have a letter from my PCP by the end of the week. Keep on a praying it is working ya'll. Thxs

11/05/03
Well I have got to a point where I need this in the morning as much as I need my coffee. I got my test results in, and should be picking up my letter from my PCP tomorrow. I know I should be happy about this but I don't know that I am. See when I went to talk to him about the letter initialy I heard the girls in the office talking to each other about how I just needed to go on a diet. This after they had told me that they didn't understand why I needed a letter from the Dr. in the first place. There had been two patients before me and they didn't need letters.

Well my flesh wanted to tell them it was a good thing or they would have went through what I was going through and Bless God that didn't happen. But I didn't....I just said that it was necessary for my insurance and that I appreciated all there hard work. :-)

I am going to try to find a sleep study and phy Dr. in network today. Oh yea say a small prayer for my husband he is talking to the HR Dept. at his job today to see if the exclusion can be lifted off our policy. I love all of you and Thxs.

11/13/03
I had my sleep study on 11/11/03. After an extremely long night of being hook up to way to many wires and machines I was told that I don't have sleep apnea. I do have narcolepsy, not sure if that is weight related or not. I will be talking to the Dr. tomorrow and setting up another apt with her. She wants me to come back and stay another night and then the next day do a series of 15 min naps to study my r.e.m.. I felt a little off guard because I went expecting to either hear that I had sleep apnea or I didn't...nothing else. Anyway, I will have my phy. eval. on the 19th and will now more about what if any chance I have of getting approved then. Continue to pray for me as I feel like I am spinning my wheels and getting nothing accomplished. Thxs.

Therefore, prepare you minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed. I Peter 1:13

11/18/03
I got a call yesterday from the sleep study Dr. and it didn't sound very good. I have to go back and do another sleep study. I will stay all night again and then the next day I will be watched while I take some naps...I can do this in my sleep it is so easy. Anyway, I will update more when I have more. Got my letter from my PCP today and I was shocked that he worded it just like I wanted him to. It is short sweet and to the point.

So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
Roman 10:17

11/20/03
Well all went really good the the Psyhco. Doc. she gave me a very good report and I am done with her. There will not be a need for any follow ups even though my husband says that there should be...te-he-he-he. However, the sleep study doc. is giving me some probblems. I have made no secret as to why I was coming to see her. I told her in my initial consult that I was having this done as a support factor for the WLS. I went yesterday to have my follow up with her and she gave me several things I could do at home to help with the sleeping disorder that I have. Gave me a scrip for the reflux, told me to take iron pills as I was at a 22 and it should be closer to 100. And then she told me that she was not going to write me a letter for Dr. Davis. She said "that I was really pretty and all I needed to do was go on a diet...the atkins diet it worked for her and it would work for me too". After we talked about this for several minutes she told me that she would not right me a letter until I tried the atkins diets again. And if she did that she would state that this surgery was not for me. I am going to find out what to do next. Keep me in your prayers I am really at a loss with this one. Thxs.

DECEMBER

12/3/03
Well I am almost ready to file a claim to the insurance company. I was told by Dr. Davis's office that the letter that I have from my PCP was not what the insurance company would want and I need to get a better one. I am going to try to have that done by the end of the week. On another subject...My daughter had a commitment ceremony and sweet sixteen party on 11/29/03. I had my neighbor tape the whole thing for me. I was watching the tape and I started to cry. I was wondering who that fat lady is that kept getting into the pictures with my family. I was so ashamed of how I look. See I dyed my hair a couple of weeks ago. It is now a dark brown and has a red tint to it. When I was watching the tape I saw this darked haired lady that from behind made me feel a little better because at least I wasn't that big. Then she turned around and OH MY GOODNESS....IT WAS ME!!!!!!!

I thought that I had four butts in that skirt that was a lot tighter than it use to be. See I am a homemaker and I don't get dressed up everyday like I use to. So I was caught of guard when getting ready to go to the church. I had my clothes laid out and I didn't think to try them on and see if they still fit...I just wore them not to long ago. Anyway, I think that a hot bath and some advil and I will be okay. I can't wait to have this surgery done!!!!!!!

12/9/03
Today will be a good day for two reasons. First, it is my anniversary, 2 years. Second, I am sending my final letter to Dr. Davis's office and all of my paper work will be submitted to the insurance company I am saying a prayer that it all goes good. I have posted to many people that the Lord has prepared a path for me and He will prepare one for them too if they ask him too. Sometimes I just need to remind myself of that. I will write more when I have more to write. Say a prayer for me!
Thxs.

Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord. Psalm 31:24

12/12/03
Oh my goodness!!!! I just talk to Dr. Davis's office and they told me that my insurance company took all the info over the phone, and they wouldn't give them a fax number to send over my letters. I have spoke to the insurance company and it seems as though I am only in the pre-cert portion of the process. This is where they will look at my policy and see if it is a service that is avilable to me. While I have an exclusion on my policy that states that "any surgery to reduce obesity" is excluded. However, I did get a fax number to have my letters sent in and they will do this today. Humana does notice the differnce between obese and morbidly obese. I can only pray at this point that I receive favor in this situation.

12/16/03
I have spent the entire day crying!!!

I found out today that I have been denied. I was told that that I was denied on Thursday but when the insurance company got my letters on Friday that my case was pending. Today, however, they said that I was denied due to the exclusion on my policy. I was crushed!!!! I am not sure what I am going to do now exactly. I was also told that I could file an appeal but that they would only come to the same conclusion because of my policy. My Husband is going to talk to Human Resources and see if there is anything we can do there. I am not going to give up just take a couple of days to dust myself off. Thxs, and God be with you.

12/18/03
Well I spoke with the HR Department at my husband's job and by no means will they lift the exclusion. She said it was just way to costly for the other employee that can control their weight. I was not sure what to say to that so I just reverted to what my Daddy has always taught me. If you don't have something nice to say don't say anything at all. I wished her and her family a Merry Christmas and got off the phone as soon as I possible could. I am going to file an appeal with the insurance company and see what happens...the worse they can say is no and they already did that. We are looking at other insurance companies so that if it comes to that we will switch. Keep me in your prayers as always. Thxs

~~~HAPPY NEW YEAR'S EVERYONE~~~

JANUARY

01/12/04
Oh my goodness I can't believe we are already in the year 2004!!! I have been out of town, my sister had surgery and I was in the Dallas, TX area for about three weeks. Anyone who has been on a long vacation or went to help someone out like that knows what I mean when I say I am sooooooooo glad to be back home! With that said...I am in the process of filing for an appeal with my insurance company. I think it went in on Friday and and I am pray that I am granted favor this time. I went through a really hard time when I got my denial letter. I had told myself that I would expect to be denied and I was already putting together my appeal letter. However, it is a totally different thing when you actually get it. Keep my in your prayers as I always need prayer. Thxs.

1/14/04
Well it has been a couple of days since I last posted and here I am again...denied...I really had high hopes that the appeal would do the trick but in the mail day before yesterday there were two letters from my insurance company. One was dated Jan. 8th, it said that they were going over my appeal and it could take up to 30 days to have an answer. The other dated Jan 9th, said that I was yet again denied. This is starting to look like I will not be able to have this life saving surgery after all. I am a little down right now (not as bad as the last time) so I will post more after I hear about my next appeal. Keep me in you prayers as I always need prayer. Thxs

February

2/1/04
Can you believe it is already Feb.??? I can't, my time does fly when you are waiting on Jesus. I am in the process of my final appeal. It will be over the phone and I am a little nervous not sure what to expect. Never done an appeal over the phone, but I feel I have nothing to lose but weight. I have been recieving the nicest messages from all of you wonderful people on the site. I can't thank you enough. It seems as though wls is something that is never even talked about in my house anymore. Not sure if the family thinks it will bother me or not. I know that I use to love coming to this site. Don't get me wrong I still do...but it is harder now. Reading all of the messages that start off "I Got A Date" it makes me really sad sometimes. However, I know that I have the power of heaven to back me up and God is on my side. I will make it through this and any other situation that comes my way with the help of God! I know that this is all happening for a reason. In time I can only hope to understand and if I don't that is okay too. I have come to know that I don't have to understand everything, only to trust in Him. I will write more when there is more to write. Keep me in your prayers as I always need prayer. Thxs

02/03/04
Well today I call Humana and spoke with the lady that does the panel reviews. I was telling her that I had not heard anything from the insurance company and was wondering when I would be having my review. Her name is Angel and the name fits, she was so sweet and helpful. Angel is going to send my file to M.E. in Houston before my panel review, and she said that she is not trying to get my hopes up, however, if the M.E. finds that there is medical nessesity that he can override the exclusion on my policy and I wouldn't have to have the review.

I KNOW THAT THIS IS THE WORKS OF THE LORD!!!!!!!

I was so excited on the phone that she repeated to me that she was not trying to get my hopes up. Also, she let me know that she handles all of the reviews for the state of Texas for Humana and she had seen many exclusions overturned in reviews. She will be calling me in the morning to let me know if the M.E. has to say about my case. Also, I want to give a BIG shout out to DW she email me info about the Dr. in Mexico and that is going to be my next option if it turns out that the insurance company is not going to budge. It will take me a while to save up the $8500.00 but I have spent more on less important things. Please pray for me as I always need Prayer. Thxs

Though I walk in the midst of trouble, thou wilt revive me: thou shalt stretch forth thine hand against the wrath of mine enemies, and they right hand shall save me.
Psalms 138:7

02/12/04
Well the time has come, I will go before the panel reveiw board tomorrow. I am trying so hard to make last minute attempts to gather info on future medical cost. I am sooooo nervous that I am having trouble typing. Please say a prayer for me as I always need prayer. Thxs.

02/13/04
This has been a very trying day for me. My father in law is dying. He has congestive heart disease, high blood pressure, and serveral other things working against him. My Momma law is hanging in their she is a remarkable women. I love them both so much. Please say a prayer for the family we will all need a comforting touch from the Holy Spirit.

On a lighter note I had my panel review today. I think it went well. However, it is hard to tell. It took all of about 8-10 mins. I had a prepared statement and when it was completed the panel was asked if they had any questions for me. They did not...I was told that I seem to be very informed and any questions that they may have had I already answered in my statement. I also added my family history and all but begged for them to approve me. I will send my statement to any one who would like to use it as a sample just e-mail me. I am now believing in the good Lord, I know that he has already set a path for me. Please keep me in your prayers as I always need prayer. Thxs.

2/14/04
I am sorrowful today. At 5.20 a.m. my Father in law passed away. He went peacefully in his sleep. My Mother in law is taking it in stride. Please send a prayer up for her. Thxs

2/18/04
I was out digging a hole in my backyard to move a rose bush. I heard the phone ring and I started not to answer it. It was Dr. Davis's office and I didn't want to talk to them until I heard from the insurance company. I had really got to a point where I thought that I was wasting there time. Anyway, I answered and Joan ask how things were going. I told her that I had my panel review Friday and I was waiting to hear from the insurance company. She told me that she had called last week and they told her that it was pending. Then she said that she had just got off the phone with them and they APPROVED it!!!!!!!!!!!!! I could not believe it. I am going to set a date as soon as I can. I have to talk it over with my husband and we will set a date that works for him to be off work. Or at least to be able to be off when I come home. I AM ARRROVED!!!! OH MY LORD AND SAVIOUR I THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!! I will update soon keep my in your prayers as I always need prayer. Thxs ;-)

**********************************************************
************I HAVE A DATE FINALLY**************
I WILL BE HAVING MY SURGERY ON MARCH 17, 2004
**********************************************************
**********************************************************

02/23/04
Well it is offically, offical I have my letter in hand from the insurance company that tells me I am approved. I am starting to get my stuff together for the hospital and what I will need when I get home. It still has not hit me yet that I a going to be having this surgery, or the Lord has given me such a peace about it that I have been just taken it in stride. I am going to work on getting my profile spruced up since I will be a long timer on here now. te...he...he...he I will write more later when there is more to write....24 days and counting. Pray for me as I always need prayer. Thxs.

02/24/04
Here is my list of things I want to accomplish after surgery...

1. To cross my legs and them be closed not side crossed.~~~5/29/04
2. For my legs to not rub together when I walk, or when wearing jeans or slacks.
3. To buy clothes I like, not just the ones that fit.~~~9/08/04
4. Fit in the seat of a roller coaster ride.
5. To enjoy having my picture taken.
6. To be turely happy with my body.
7. For my legs to not eat my shorts when I walk.~~~5/16/04
8. To wear pantyhose without hearing the sound of friction.
9. To cross my arms and not rest them on my stomach.~~~6/02/04
10. To be able to tie my shoes, and breath at the same time.~~~7/9/04
11. To be more comfortable with being intimate with my husband.~~~yeah baby!!!!
12. To go to functions at the Fire Dept with my Husband and not feel as though every one is staring and talking about the fat lady.~~~7/3/04
13. I want to be able to play with my grandbabies in the floor or the yard and not hurt the next day.~~~9/06/04
14. I want someone to tell me I am beautiful...not that I have a beautiful face.~~~7/9/04
15. I want to be able to mow my whole yard by myself.~~~3/4's of the way there.

I know that this is a lot. It is even kind of selfish for me to want so much and it only benefit me. I think I am worth it. I know that the happier that I am the better I can be to my family. Just knowing that some if not all of these things will come to pass leaves me on cloud nine. Pray for me as I always need prayer. Thxs.

March

3/4/04
I have not updated in a while. I use to think that people quit updating because once they got there approval they didn't need the support anymore...Boy was I wrong...I sill need the support...but I am soooooooooo busy!!!!!!!!

I can't believe how fast time is flying by. It is only about 7 days until my pre-op and then the next week I will be starting life anew. You know the funny part about it is that my sister is worried that I won't be able to make it to her wedding May 15, 2004. I told her that I would be up and around in no time. I pray that she have some peace. Planning a wedding is very stressful...I am sure most of you know what I am talking about. My Daddy may come up and stay with me so that my Husband doesn't have to use up his vacation time. It seems like every year his vacation time is spent taking care of me. Anyway, he is going to go hunting this year. My daughter is my strong hold right now. She is so uplifting to me. Always trying to encourage me to hang in there. I love her more than life itself. I worry that she is going to take my weight problems to be her own. She is so beautiful that I find myself just staring at her sometimes. Her and my Son are the best things I ever did in my life up until I married my husband that is ranking real high also. Well, I am going to update later when I have more to write. Please pray for me as I always need prayer. Thxs.

3/09/04
I will be going for my pre-op and to the Dr.'s office tomorrow. I am a little nervous I think...not sure I just have the pit feeling in the bottom of my stomach. Not getting a lot of support at church. But I guess I would be upset if there was not a concern from the ladies at the church. They are such a big part of my life. I wish I could explain what a huge part they are. It is like having about 5 Momma's and 4 Aunties and tons of friends. I truely would be lost without my church family. I still need prayer with regards to my Husband. I am not sure just how; but we have got to the point where I am going to do this and he is a little resentful it seems at times. I mean I didn't really sit down and talk to him about any of this until I was sure that I was going to do it. I didn't think that there was any harm in that seeing how I was doing this for me in the first place. I know that a lot of things will change between now and then. However, he is not as supportive as I would like him to be. I now know it is because all of this time he has thought this to be the wrong thing to do. I knew that he was not real reseptive at first but thought that he would come around. It was until this weekend in the heat of an arguement that he finally told me. I was stunned and heartbroken all at once. How would I be able to make it back to that place that he and I share. That place of trust and honesty...well I have come to the point that I wasn't doing this for him in the first place and I won't let how he feels now be a factor. Divorce is not an option for us so I am not going to worry about that but I do not want to get to a point were we are misable either. Please Pray for us to get past this and have a happy life. I don't want us to be one of the couples that has a lot of problems after surgery. I believe that the Lord put us together with one another and will not let this come between us. Pray for me as I always need prayer. Thxs.

03/10/04
I have my pre-op apt. is today and I was not able to sleep very well last night. I will be there at 11:00am and I am not sure what time I will be back home. Oh by the way, I sat last night with my Husband and he read my profile. It is werid he didn't say anything after. I will be in prayer for him as well as myself...we will get through this. Say a prayer for me as I always need prayer.

03/11/04
I had my pre-op apt yesterday and it all went fine. I am really set I will be at the hospital on 3/17/04 at 8am, and will go into surgery at 11am. I am so relieved that this is all finally starting to take shape. It is amazing every time I move to a different level of my journey it is like...okay this is where is really starts...then it is like well...maybe this is where it really starts so on and so forth. Anyway, I just wanted to update. Oh yeah, my Dad is not coming to be with me after surgery. I talk to him on the phone and he told me that he was not able to make it. I was really sad!!!! I know it is because he doesn't want to leave his dog for a week, He however doesn't know that I know that part. I didn't want to say...well I know that you don't want to leave your dog to take care of your daughter. Anyway, I have some friends that are going to be with me. I think I would rather have ladies with me anyway. And if need be I will have my Husband take off work. Here is a tribute to my angels...

Adasha and Linda,

I just wanted to publicly let you know that you have ment so much to me. I have had little to no support in time of my preparation for this surgery. Just knowing that I have the two of you shoots my spirits through the roof. May God bless the both of you for everything you have and will do for me. I have two of the greatest angels!!!

When I read this I thought of them...

May you always have an Angel by your side.

May you always have an angel by your side. Watching out for you in all the things you do. Reminding you to keep believing in brighter days. Finding ways for your wishes and dreams to take you to beautiful places. Giving you hope that is as certain as the sun. Giving you the strength of serenity as your guide. May you always have love and comfort and courage. And may you always have an angel by your side.

May you always have an angel by your side. Someone there to catch you if you fall. Encouraging your drams. Inspiring your happiness. Holding your hand and helping you through it all.

In all of our days, our lives are always changing. Tears come along as well as smiles. Along the roads you travel, may the miles be a thousand times more lovely that lonely. May they give you gifts that never, ever, end: someone wonderful to love and a dear friend in whom you can confide. May you have rainbows after every storm. May you have hopes to keep you warm. And may you always have an angel by your side.

Thxs to the both of you :angel:'s,
Shannon
The Irish Lassie
3/17/04


3/23/04
I have a lot to update...I had my surgery on 3/17/04 (Wen). I was told by my surgeon that I was going to be his poster child. My surgery took only 2 hours and everything went just as he had planned. I went in at 11:00am and I was out at 2:00pm. Well I know that you are thinking that is 3 hours but it took them some time to put me to sleep. (doesn't that sound like something you would do to an animal) Anyway, by six that night I was makin the rounds. I made 13 rounds arounds the nurses station that day. The next day (Thur)I was making those rounds again. I was sore but no pain...trusty morphine pump in tow also. Well, by Fri. they came to take away the trusty dusty morphine pump...I wouldn't have minded but after that they came and took out my drain tube. I have to tell ya...that felt like they were pulling devil spawns out of my stomach. I was in some pain, sister. After that I slept for a while off and on and before I knew it the day was almost gone. I was ready to go home the next day (Sat.) and at about 11:00am that is just what I did. I have to say that my Husband and my Angels were just the best!!!!! Adasha, came and she brought me a gorgeous gardinia plant, oh and her three beautiful children with her. Linda, she came and brought me a card and a gift bag that was loaded with goodies. Also got a visit from Momma July and she brought me this lil clay "hug". Not to mention that she is having her surgery tomorrow and I will be going to see her. It has been a week tomorrow and I have lost 11 lbs. I will never have to carry around again.

I AM CAREFUL TO GIVE ALL OF THE PRAISE AND GLORY TO GOD!!!!!!!

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose.
Romans 8:28

3/30/04
Tomorrow I will be two weeks post-op. I have lost 16lbs, but let me tell you it has been a rollar coaster ride. I was losing really fast at first and then for three days nothing. Then all of the sudden I was losing again. I was told not to weight myself everyday anymore and I will only be weighing myself on Wen. now. I will be updating more when I have more to update. Please say a prayer for me as I always need prayer. Thxs.

Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." Hebrews 13:5

APRIL

4/7/04
I went to see Dr. Davis today for a three week follow up. I was kinda dreading it because I was scared that I had not lose enough for the time that I have had with this wonderful tool. I was surprised to find that I had lost 22 pounds in three weeks and I was only expected to lose 10 a month. I was so happy!!!! Anyway, on the other hand my hair is starting to fall out. Now don't get me wrong it has always fell out on a daily basis. And I didn't think that I would be able to notice once it did start falling out. Let's face it have you looked at my photo...I have enough hair for a small country. Well I have begun to get a lil apprehencive (not sure that is spelled right) about the hair loss. I have on a lighter note been able to plant some seed and do a little lite yard work. I love getting out in the yard. I have 17 rose bushes and I lot of other plants. I grow them from seeds so that I can see God's work come to life. Well, I am going to close for know and will post more later. Please say a prayer for me as I always need prayer. Thxs.

04/15/04
GOD IS SOOOO GOOD TO ME!!!!!!!
As I live and breath I have lost a total of 32 pounds thus far. I was really worried that this would fall like all other diets I have tried. I am so greatful to Dr. Davis and his Son that I can't put it into words. My friend Sandy Hobson is having surgery with Dr. Davis on 4/28/04. I have an appt that day along with a support group that evening so I will pop up and see her while I am there. Also Dacia, will be having her surgery earlier that week. I will be posting there progress on the message boards. I have not been doing so great at getting my water/fuilds in. I will be working more on that. I have not walked in the past week due to the fact that I have been on my period for two weeks (second time in a month) and it has been a heavy flow and very painful. I have been useing the liquid tylenol that I came home with. Amazing that I didn't need it after surgery and I do need it for my period. Anyway, I will start my walking/working out again real soon...maybe this weekend. Continue to hold me up in praye as I always need prayer. Thxs!

One Month Anniversary

4/17/04
I have not been losing as fast as others that I have read but I am losing at a speed that God wants me to lose at. I am happy to report that I have lost a total of 32 pounds in a Month. I have not been measuring my inches. I didn't measure from the start I guess I should have I just didn't think about it. Anyway, I am very pleased!!! I am going to look for a new PCP I would like to find one that is more WLS friendly. I don't think that my Dr. is going to work out. I do go to see Dr. Davis on Wens and I will update more then. I will only update my profile from here on if I have a Dr's Appt or reach a goal/milestones. Please keep me in your prayers as I always need prayer. Thxs.

May

5/18/04
Well, as of yesterday I am two months out. I have lost a total of 40lbs. and I could not be happier! I have a ton of energy compared to before surgery. I am enjoying going to the gym and water arobics is the cat's meow! I never thought they would do much, but I hear from a lady at my support meeting that it was good for the extra skin. Well I am going to my next support meeting on the 26th of May and I am looking forward to it. My only regret is that it is on a church night. I hate to miss Church or the Youth meetings. Well I will write more next month. If there is anyone who is in need of support letters feel free to write me anytime. Pray for me as I always need prayer. Thxs.

July

7/09/04
My, My how time flys! I am one week and one day away from being four months out. I have lost a total of 60lbs and only have 66lbs more to go to be at goal. I can't believe it. I never though that this was possible. There are times that I feel as though I am a failure. When I hit those times when I do lose for a couple of weeks at a time. That is when I rely on my prayers. I know the Lord would not bring me this far to see me fail. He doesn't want me to be a failure but a success. When I get to feeling this way I have to remind myself that it is the devil trying to keep me down and depressed, he is a liar and the father of it. My life has totally changed now. I have a life! I am able to keep up with my family and all that they have going on. I notice people wanting to talk to me more. I am even looking for a job now. I am a work in progress so continue to keep me in your prayers as I always need prayers. Thxs.

Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heat. Psalm 37:4

August

8/16/04
It has been a little over a month since I last updated my profile. I have been really busy...and not wanting to face that I have not been taking very good care of myself. I know I should be doing everything in my power to make sure that everything is taken care of. I get really busy with my son being a senior this year and my daughter being a junior. Couple that with the fact that my husband is a firefighter and work a 40 hour week and we are trying to start a catering business. I don't have a lot of time on my hands anymore. I am not complaining this is what I wanted from the begining. It seems as though now that I have the energy to keep up with everyone it never stops. I have not been eating the right foods (bread is evil) and I forget to take my vitamins on some days. I need to get better at getting my protein in. An even though I do alot of stuff everyday I need to exercise on a regular basis. I had even stopped coming by here as much because everyone is doing so great that I didn't want to face how terrible I was doing. I have been restored though. I read Ann's profile and I know what I need to do and now I have the support from her I need to do it. You would think that with all of the fighting with the insurance company and going through this surgery I would not let anything get in my way. Well for me that was easier said than done. I am on the right track now though. I will update more often and I will be in prayer for the Lord to show me when I am not in his Will for my life. I will ask as I always do to keep me in your prayers becuase I always need prayer. Thxs.

Walk in all the way that the Lord your God has commanded you, so that you may live and prosper and prolong your days in the land that you will possess. Deuteromony 5:33

"In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, rememberingthe words that Lord Jesus himself said: 'It is more blessed to give than to recieve,'"
Acts 20:35

September

9/16/04
Well I will be six months out tomorrow. I have lost a total of 80lbs. Isn't that amazing! I am so happy to be 80lbs. lighter than I was only six months ago. I still have to adjust to the fact that I don't see myself the way that others do. I still see this big ole fat cow in the mirror. At first I thought that it was just the nice thing for people to say "You look so good." I told myself that they just knew that I had surgery and were being nice. I am starting to see the difference now. I am in a size 14 jeans which I haven't been in since the 9th grade. WOW, I still can't beleive it. I recently bought a pair of size 12's and they were to small so I gave them to my daughter. Hopefully, I will be able to wear them in a couple of months or sooner. My daughter told me the other day that she could not wait until we were wearing the same size clothes that way she would have twice the wardrobe. I thought to myself...wearing the same size...it could happen!!!!!! Thxs to God, for this wonderful tool to help me live a fuller more productive life. I will do my best to update my profile more often seeing how I come and check out the Texas message board everyday. I just haven't thought about it until I realize that I have another month behind me. Say a prayer for me as I always need prayer. Thxs.

Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
John 14:27

November

11/30/04
I have not updated in a while. Life seems to have taken off and I am so busy living it that I don't realize how much time passes in between my visits here. I have finally made it to the century club. I can not believe that I have lost a 100lbs. I would have never thought it possible. I am now dealing with the people that think I am losing to much weight. I find that I am sitting and wondering why they think that I am waiting on them to tell me when to stop losing? I only have about 25 more pounds to lose and I will start on my journey for plastics. I have a whole list of things that I want done but may have to settle on just a few. I will be turning to the boards again to find the support I need to go through with this. I will ask that all of you keep me in your prayers for my marriage and this journey. Thxs.

Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord.
Psalms 31:24

December

12/22/04
I was at our church Christmas program/dinner last sunday and I started thinking. I have a ton of people that are telling me that I have lost enough weight and that I need to stop lossing. I get really mad...it seems that folks feel like it is up to them when I needed to lose, when I need to stop losing. Anyway, I am happy to say that I have lost a total of 106lbs. now. I only have 20 more lbs. to go. I feel really great now, I am over the flu and am feeling a little more like a human again. I am so blessed. I look at where I was at this time last year and how I thought that I would never be where I am now. I love the way that God has provided for me...even if I didn't understand the way he was doing it. I had to come to the understanding of doing it His way and not my own. I know that I should update more often than I do. I can only say that I don't spend as much time in front of the computer as I did before. I actually get up and out and live life now. Sometimes I think back to how much time I spent on the computer and here in the house and I thought that was a life. If it was...I am in heaven on earth now! Take care and keep me in your prayers, as I always need prayers.

Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me hath everlasting life.
John 6:47

March

3/10/05
It has almost been a year since my surgery. I can honestly say that more has changed than just my weight and size. I have made so many changes that I really don't know where to start. I know now more than ever that the person I am is the beautiful creature that God created me to be. I am learning that there are things in life that I use to use food to deal with. I can't use food anymore and that has taught me to work through things that come my way instead of stuffing them deep down inside. I have went through trials with my children, my marriage, and myself. With the good Lord's help I have come through it all. I am so greatful for my Lord and Saviour that I can not even put it in words. I know that it is all because of Him I am where I am in my journey through this temperial life.

If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. James 1:5&6

I have lost a total of 117lbs. to date. If I didn't lose another pound it is all good. I am still 10lbs. from my goal weight but I am so much healthier that it doesn't matter if I lose that 10lbs. or not. I am totally happy with myself. I didn't know if I would ever be able to say that! Don't get me wrong there are still things that I am working on inside and out. I am able to deal with the let downs a lot better now that I did in the past. I am not the same person I was just a year ago. I owe that all to God!!! I will update my profile more on my anniversary date and will make a good effort to update more often. Say a prayer for me as I always need prayer. Thxs.

I am Lisa P.'s Angel

I am an Angel! My angelette is having surgery on March 16,2005. I could not have a better person to be an Angel too. She is using the same surgeons that I used. Dr. Davis is the best I think. Dr. Robert Davis and his son Dr. Garth Davis share a practice and I highly recommened Dr. Robert Davis! I will update more about Lisa as the info comes. Say a prayer for her and if you can sign her support page just cut and paste this url to your browser. (Not sure how to connect the link)

http://www.obesityhelp.com/morbidobesity/status.phtml?N=P1077940054

I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gove Himself for me.
Galatians 2:20

Thxs so much for your prayers and support!

July

7/5/05
I hope that everyone had a wonderful fourth of July! I can't beleive it has been so long since I updated my profile. I have been through a lot in the past four months. My husband was very ill and in the hospital and once the Lord healed him he was released. It was then that my son was graduating, my daughter was in the Miss Brazoria pagent, and my husband was entered in a cook-off. I was in Dallas for a couple of weeks to help my sister take care of my brother in law who had emergency surgery for his gall bladder and hernia repair. My Aunt is also dying, and has refused any further treatment. I have been burning up the roads between Houston and Dallas for a while. I have been doing already as far as my health goes. I have had some pain lately after I eat, and I am still trying to figure out how to stop losing weight. Never thought that would be a problem!!!! I have a lump in my armpit that I am going to get checked out soon. It had me a lil freaked out at first but I have a peace that only my Lord can bring me now. Other than these things I have a very blessed life. I have a wonderful husband and great kids. I will update my profile on a more regular basis from here on out. I really had not realized that it had been so long since my last update. I guess that I just got caught up living my wonderful new life. Please say a prayer for me and my family as we always need prayer. Thxs.

My Weight Loss Chart

Date~~~~~~~~~~Weight
03/17/04~~~~~~266 Pre-op
03/24/04~~~~~~250 -16
04/07/04~~~~~~244 -22
04/12/04~~~~~~240 -26
04/17/04~~~~~~234 -32
05/17/04~~~~~~226 -40
06/17/04~~~~~~213 -53
07/17/04~~~~~~199 -67
08/17/04~~~~~~196 -70
09/17/04~~~~~~186 -80
10/17/04~~~~~~175 -91
11/17/04~~~~~~163 -103
12/17/04~~~~~~160 -106
01/17/05~~~~~~155 -111
02/17/05~~~~~~150 -116
03/17/05~~~~~~140 -126
07/05/05~~~~~~134 -132
01/09/06~~~~~~120 -146

















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266 lbs.
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154lbs.




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Member Interests:
  • Christianity - I owe my life to my Saviour and I try to live everyday to please and serve him.

  • Married - The Lord has given me the most wonderful husband, married for almost two years.


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    Surgeon Info:
    Surgeon: Robert Davis, M.D.
    02/18/04 I AM APPROVED FINALLY!!!!! I just got a call from Joan and she said that she just got off the phone with insurance and when did I want to set a date? I am talking it over with my Husband tonight and will call her in the morning. I LOVE YOU LORD!!!! OH YEAH YOU TO JOAN!!!! ~~~~~~~~~~ 02/01/04 Well Joan did help me with my appeal. I am glad that she did because I know I couldn't have done it on my own. I just didn't have the resources. However, I have not heard a peep from their office since. I guess that they have given up on me. I will not give up though. I will continue to fight the good fight of faith. ~~~~~~~~~~ 12/16/03 I spoke with Joan today and she is going to due everything she can to help me with my appeal and is keeping my file pending. ~~~~~~~~~~ 10/29/03 I met with Dr. Davis and he proforms the surgeries with his son. (very cute son I might add) He is rated one of the best in Houston! I love his disposition and he believes that I won't even need corrective surgery when I am done. yeppie!!!! He has a very informed staff that is more than helpful. I look forward to taking this journey with him. He set a lot of my fears to rest. ~~~~~~~~~~~ 10/15/03 I haven't met Dr. Davis yet. I just wanted to let everyone know that the ladies in the office are just wonderful. They made me feel as though they were giving me there full attention and were very informative.
    Insurer Info:
    Humana/Choice Care, PPO
    ***Newest post at top*** 2/18/04 I AM APPROVED!!!!!! I AM APPROVED!!!!!! I AM APPROVED!!!!!! Hey really now...I AM APPROVED!!!!!! ~~~~~~~~~~ 02/13/04 I had my panel review today and I think it went well. They will let me know of their decession in five days by mail. Thxs. ~~~~~~~~~~ 02/12/04 Well I go up against the big bad insurance company tomorrow. I will be pleding my case to the panel review board. I am praying that the Lord show me favor because they sure aren't. I will update as soon as I know what they say. Thxs. ~~~~~~~~~~ 02/01/04 I still have not received a letter from the insurance company telling me when my review with the panel will be. I my be jumping the gun here but I will call Mon. and make sure that they have not forgotten to send it. I will post more then. Thxs ~~~~~~~~~~ 01/23/04 I called and spoke with the appeal department and they are going to schedule me for an appeal with a panel. I will get a letter in the mail telling me more about it. I am a little nervious, okay maybe more than a little. I am not sure why becuase I know as long as the Lord is for who shall be against me. ~~~~~~~~~~ 01/14/04 I have been denied again and I am going to send my second appeal out soon. I am not sure that it is going to do any good as per the exclusion on my policy but I have to try. ~~~~~~~~~~ 12/16/03 I got the call to day and was told that I was denied. I am not sure what to do from here as I was also told that I could appeal but that the conclusion would be the same. Due to the exclusion on my policy. ~~~~~~~~~~ 12/12/03 My paperwork is being faxed in today. Dr. Davis's office called for pre-cert yesterday and they didn't get a fax number. I was to call and talk to them and get the number and I am praying now that I get the favor that I so grately need. Please say a prayer for me. ~~~~~~~~~~ 11/06/03 I have had a lot of contact with my insurance company lately. I have a separate number to call for mental physicans. Well it is turning out to be a lot of work to get a phsyic. eval.. I think that if I was mentally unstable I would be in big big trouble. Anyway, I guess it could be worse. ~~~~~~~~~~ 10/29/03 I get so much mixed information from them and it is hard to tell if I will get approved or not. I continue to be polite as my Daddy always said you can catch more bees with honey that vinegar! I know that they are just doing their jobs and Jesus died for them too. I have to keep telling myself that because...how do I put this...they like to dance around a lot. I should learn how to tango. :-P ~~~~~~~~~~ 10/14/03 I spoke to Scott today and even though there is an exclusion on my policy it will be covered by my medical needs. I am soooooo happy!!!!! Thank you Jesus!!!!! ~~~~~~~~~~ Well, I would love to tell you that they are a bunch of creps...however, they are not. I always get the nicest people on the phone and they are as helpful as can be. They have written and total exclusion for "any surgery to reduce obesity". I am at a lost this was my last resort. I am not sure what to do now.