JUNE 2004-
So begins my WLS journey... I will try and update it often as I know this page will become a testament to the new life I will soon start living! Hopefully, someone, anyone, will find something inspirational in this page that will help them!
Love God,
Kimanne
My Starting weight/height are 315lbs @ 5'7" tall.
(319lbs on the day I left the hospital, Oct. 17th, 2004)
Starting Measurements are:
Neck= 17 1/2"
Breasts= 59"
Waist= 56"
Hips= 61"
Arm (Bicep)= 17"
Wrist= 7"
Thigh= 30"
Calve= 18"
Ankle= 10"
7 Week Measurements are: (November 25th, 2004)
Neck= 17"
Breasts= 55 1/2"
Waist= 51 1/2"
Hips= 58"
Arm (Bicep)= 14"
Wrist= 6 1/2"
Thigh= 27 1/2"
Calve= 18"
Ankle= 10"
TOTAL INCHES LOST IN SEVEN WEEKS (since last measure in)== 17.5 INCHES!!!!!!!! Yahooooooo!!! Yay Me!!!! :):):)
11 Week Measurements are:
Neck= 15 3/4
Breasts= 53
Waist= 49
Hips= 55 1/2
Arm (Bicep)= 15 (up one inch?? must be due to working out on the arm lift???)
Wrist= 6 1/2
Thigh= 27
Calve= 16 1/2
Ankle= 9 1/2
TOTAL INCHES LOST IN ELEVEN WEEKS (since last weigh in)== 10.25
TOTAL INCHES LOST TO DATE ARE == 27.75!!!
WOW!!!!! YAY ME!! I rock!!! Hehe:) God is so good!! Thank you Lord!
14 Week Measurements are: (January 18, 2005)
Neck= 14.5"
Breasts= 52"
Waist= 46"
Hips= 50.5"
Arm (Bicep)= 14.5"
Wrist= 6 1/2"
Thigh= 24"
Calve= 16.5"
Ankle= 9"
TOTAL INCHES LOST IN FOURTEEN WEEKS (since last measure in)== 13.25!!
*****TOTAL INCHES LOST TO DATE ARE == 41 inches!!!*****
This is simply amazing! I feel so much better and healthier! I am getting my life back. Thank you Lord!
17 Week Measurements are: (February 8th, 2005)
Neck= 14.5"
Breasts= 49.5"
Waist= 43"
Hips= 50"
Arm (Bicep)= 13"
Wrist= 6"
Thigh= 24"
Calve= 16"
Ankle= 9"
TOTAL INCHES LOST IN SEVENTEEN WEEKS (since last measure in)=== 8"!!
*****TOTAL INCHES LOST TO DATE ARE == 49 inches!!!***** WoW! I'm doing so good, thank you Lord!
FIVE MONTH & A HALF MONTH MEASUREMENTS (March 25 '05)
Neck= 14.5"
Breasts= 46"
Waist= 41"
Hips= 44"
Arm (Bicep)= 12"
Wrist= 6"
Thigh= 24"
Calve= 15.5"
Ankle= I forgot to do my ankle!
TOTAL INCHES LOST TO DATE: 62.75 Woohoo yay me! I feel so awesome!
Psalm 139
For the Chief Musician. A Psalm of David.
1 O LORD, You have searched me and known me.
2You know my sitting down and my rising up;
You understand my thought afar off.
3You comprehend my path and my lying down,
And are acquainted with all my ways.
4For there is not a word on my tongue,
But behold, O LORD, You know it altogether.
5You have hedged me behind and before,
And laid Your hand upon me.
6Such knowledge is too wonderful for me;
It is high, I cannot attain it.
7Where can I go from Your Spirit?
Or where can I flee from Your presence?
8If I ascend into heaven, You are there;
If I make my bed in hell, behold, You are there.
9If I take the wings of the morning,
And dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea,
10Even there Your hand shall lead me,
And Your right hand shall hold me.
11If I say, "Surely the darkness shall fall[1] on me,"
Even the night shall be light about me;
12Indeed, the darkness shall not hide from You,
But the night shines as the day;
The darkness and the light are both alike to You.
13For You formed my inward parts;
You covered me in my mother's womb.
14I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made;[2]
Marvelous are Your works,
And that my soul knows very well.
15My frame was not hidden from You,
When I was made in secret,
And skillfully wrought in the lowest parts of the earth.
16Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed.
And in Your book they all were written,
The days fashioned for me,
When as yet there were none of them.
17How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God!
How great is the sum of them!
18If I should count them, they would be more in number than the sand;
When I awake, I am still with You.
19Oh, that You would slay the wicked, O God!
Depart from me, therefore, you bloodthirsty men.
20For they speak against You wickedly;
Your enemies take Your name in vain.[3]
21Do I not hate them, O LORD, who hate You?
And do I not loathe those who rise up against You?
22I hate them with perfect hatred;
I count them my enemies.
23Search me, O God, and know my heart;
Try me, and know my anxieties;
24And see if there is any wicked way in me,
And lead me in the way everlasting.
7/15/04
After searching and searching, even going to a consultation at Evergreen Hospital only to be denied, I found out that Medicare covers gastric bypass when "medically necessary." Since I have co-morbitites such as sleep apnea, asthma, back surgery three times, arthritis, it is medically necessary. I could only find one Doctor in my area that takes Medicare, but he has an awesome record and reviews! I'm so excited! He is out of the office until the end of August due to an accident, so my consulation won't be until September, but Medicare doesn't pre-authorize, so I won't have to wait for the insurance company and we will be able to schedule it! YAY! I'm sooooooooooooo happy!!
7/28/04
Haha, ok so this seems like an ever changing battle! I found another Dr. instead of the one I was going to see as I stated above. I just learned that the Doctor I was going to see is going to be out longer then expected. Sooo.. because I'm so impatient for this surgery {LOL} I started looking for another surgeon. I was very fortunate to find Dr. Thirlby at Virginia Mason clinic here in Seattle. I am scheduled for his seminar on Aug. 11th with a consult on Aug. 23rd. His credentials are phenomenal! Only one thing... he only does the open RNY. I wanted the lap RNY but I will find out more at the seminar. The good news is however that I can have the surgery, its all timing now:) I have to thank alllllll the great people on the Obesity Website, I have never met a group of more caring, empathetic and just down to earth people! I thank God for blessing me with meeting all of you:) I'll write more later as I find out more information!
7/30/04
I think I'm obsessed. The fact that there is a way out of my fat body, after all these years is almost unreal. I have turned into a sponge, seeking any and all information on WLS surgery I can find. My 16 year old daughter is sick of hearing it and has called me selfish:( Not selfish for wanting a better, quality life... but selfish because I'm all she has in the world. Her father is not in the picture, she has no brothers or sisters, and neither do I. I pray to God everyday that if this is his will that all the right doors will open up. I am merely following the path before me. I have met SOO many wonderful people on this site, it touches my heart. I am growing particularly close with Terry, who lives SUPER close to me and is starting her WL journey at the exact same time. This, in and of itself is enough to make our bond closer:) She's a great person and I'm glad I met her. I still have 12 more days to my seminar and then my consult is Aug. 23rd. UGHHHH time goes so slow when you're waiting for something important! Will write more later, goodnight & God Bless.
August 1st
Nothing new to report, due to the fact that its the weekend I can't bother any of the doctors office lol. Tomorrow is Monday, so I'll start making calls again. I was supposed to go camping this weekend, but due to the fact that I have 2nd degree burns on my upper arms, back and shoulders, I didn't think it was a fabulous idea to go! LOL.. How'd I get 2nd degree burns you might ask? Well... haha, silly me, I went out last weekend and floated the river all day (about 7 straight hours on the water) and since this is not very common of me, I forgot that I needed sunscreen one's first several times out in the sun! Sooo ouchie!!! I got burned and got burned good:( Well, live and learn.. Now I am in the itchy stage and its driving me nuts! It is peeling and the new skin underneath of it is very sensitive. But anywho.. I spent a good portion on the amos website this weekend (staying out of the sun LOL) I just cannot tell you how much the people on this website mean to me. People that don't even know me, yet somehow know my heart and what it's like going thru life as an obese person. To each and every one of you that read this, you mean the world to me, thank you for giving me the attention, the caring, the answers, advice, everything! Mwuahhhhhh !! I will write more after I pester the Doctors office's this week lol. Love God, Kimanne
AUGUST 3RD 2004
Ok, so this is kinda like gonna be my place to vent also *smirks*. I saw some s@#&t over the weekend, on these boards, that just blew me away. People telling other folks on the board that they should be b&%#tch slapped and stuff like that. WHAT THE HECK?? Who would be so arrogant as to do that?? The gal was simply asking a question.. my goodness.. too bad weight loss surgery can't cure negative people as well. It's bad enough that WE as obese people have to put up with society issues, let alone when we think we are in a "safe" place, we take a beating here as well! *Grrr* I'm really peeved about this, hehe, but yes, I kept my normally OPEN mouth, SHUT!. I am going to just pray for the people on these boards. Thats the only thing I can do. Ok *whew*.. I feel a little better:) If you are reading this, and someone has been negative or mean to you on these boards, I'm sorry. Don't let a few bad apples spoil the bunch. I know that that is SO cliche', but its very true I believe. We are all here for a reason, so don't let negative, generally unhappy people get you down. The good people definitely outweigh (haha, no pun intended) the bad ones here. So wrap your arms around yourself and give yaself a hug from me ((HUGS)) squeeze tight now- cuz' i give big juicy hugs *lol*. Anyway.. love ya' all. I'm going to bed now. Ciao for now good people:)
August 6th, 2004
I have an angel, I have an angel, I have an angel la la la la! LOL Sorry, I'm so excited. I met Terry (my angel) one of my very first visits on this website. She is a true gem. I have been so blessed to find her, or did she find me? *lol* Anyway, however we found each other, we are on the same wls journey together at about the same exact time! How cool is that! We are even attending the same seminar ! Whoop whoop! We share our joys, fears and expectations together and its so nice having someone who understands:) Could this get any cooler? Just when you thought it couldn't *lol* get this... she lives within minutes of me *whoa* I know, cool huh? Like I said, I'm so totally blessed I just dunno what to do with myself:) I love you girl!!!!!!!!!! *hugs*
Kimanne
August 11th 2004
I'm going to just copy what I posted to the board:
Hey Everyone! I just wanted to let yall know that I met my angel tonight! My angel is (we're not supposed to name names on the board, her name is on my surgery page tho)... I just met her since we've been on this website. We hit it off from the very beginning. Talked almost everynight, shared our fears, joys, confusions etc... Well, tonight we had our seminar to go too. Since we just live about 5 miles apart we decided to ride together. Oh my gosh.. she is so beautiful! Not only is she physically beautiful, but she is one of the most sweetest people I have ever met~ she has that internal beauty that just radiates from her. When I first saw her I gave her a big hug, thats how comfortable I was. We started talking and didn't shut up until about 3.5 hours later when she dropped me back off at my car! We had a about a half hour drive both ways and we talked all the way there and back. We stopped and had dinner at an icky teriyaki place (teriYUCKI in this case lol ) and just talked and talked. We shared so much about ourselves, it was so incredibly nice. We have so much in common, we started our jouney at the same time, our doctors are in the same clinic, we'll be in the same hospital, we even have the same weird scar on our legs:-D:-D. Forgive me if I'm going on and on... but I don't have a DH or boyfriend, and no family close, so its so nice to have someone to share this journey with. I guess this is one case where being obese was a good thing, otherwise I would have never met her. In closing, I hope that everyone going through this journey finds someone to share it with, it makes it tremendously easier. God Bless each of you, you're all in my prayers. And a big thanks for listening to me ramble!
Love God,
Kimanne
The seminar was awesome! I met my surgeon, Dr. Thirlby. He sure is a confident man. I like that a lot. He's done thousands of open RNY's so I'm really comfortable with him. I went with Terry and oh my gosh, we had a great time. Dr. Thirlby's office said surgery will be approximately late Sept, early Oct... arghhhhhh I can't wait that long! *lol* ok,,,, if I have to I can I guess. lol anyway, today was a great day! Write more in a few days:)
August 16th, 2004
What a boring weekend its been! About the only interesting thing I did was watch the Olympics (which I love) and go to church. Ya know... as I was watching the Olympics, as much as I love them, it kinda depressed me too. I realized on what I missed out on being an overweight child. It reminded me of all the things I used to love to do; volley ball, swimming, diving, running, and I would have loved to learn to play tennis! But of course when you are a fat child, no one wants you on their team. So yeah, it really did suck for the most part. But hey, after so many years, you can bet I'm going to do these things once I start losing weight. I still swim, in fact, my daughter and I go to the lake pretty regularly. But I think she gets embarassed... and I don't blame her. I just wear a tank top and shorts.. but still.. she's a teenager, and I know it bothers her. By the Grace of God, this time next year, things will be different! I want to live, and by live I don't mean just breathing, I mean really LIVE.. I'm talking quality of life! Going outside, walking, swimming, running, not having to do gymnastics to wipe my butt (sorry people, but ya know what I mean) *giggle* Quality of life. Three little words that mean so much to me, yet have been missing from my life for so long. This website has become so important to me and my weightloss journey. I pray each night for every member and each surgery... The medical technology these days is surely a gift from God. Thank you Lord for another day, and thank you for this medical miracle we call gastric bypass. Love God!
August 18th, 2004
Well, I spent last night in the hospital with my daughter. Oh she's fine... just had a super bad infection in her lymphnoids ( noids? or nodes?) hmm... anyway, we had to wait 6 hours to get in. Yuck, I guess everyone hurt themselves yesterday.
Since I started researching WLS it has kept me very busy. Always searching, talking to people, sharing stories, etc... I think I've searched myself out *lol* I think its time to stop, I keep getting the same answers to questions that have already been asked... But today I came to the realization that I've spent so much time focused on how it will be after WLS, I suddenly realized how boring my life is now! Ughhhh! I lead a pretty basic life. I'm a single mom, my daughter is a teenager, so she's starting be less dependent on me and spending more time doing other things. I go to church twice a week, I walk my dog everyday, I spend about a night (sometimes two) with friends and I'm disabled (3 back surgeries) so I don't work either... SOMETIMES I will go to a movie or shopping at the mall or something, but normally I don't go out other then said places above. How boring is that? I can't wait til I lose weight. I'm totally obsessed. I don't know if its healthy or not?? It's like, my life is in neutral right now.. and I know the time is coming when it will start up again, but its INCREDIBLY slow getting there! Remember in the movie "Groundhog Day", with Bill Murray, how he keeps going thru the same day, over, and over, and over... Thats how I feel! I have to wait about another month for WLS and it seems so far away. I know time is moving, but why doesn't it seem like it???? Oh my gosh, *giggle* I've totally lost it:) This is worse then when I used to wait for Christmas as a child. Can anyone relate? :(
Oh yeah, today I had a very close friend of mine call me all upset. She's like "You're not having surgery! You're not having surgery!!" Thats the message she left on my voicemail *LOL* So I called her back and I was like, wait a minute, whats going on?? Why are you so upset?? Well, as it turns out, she had spoken with an acquaintence of an acquaintence (I hate those lol) who's cousin had WLS and had died during surgery. Needless to say, my friend, who's like a sister to me, was all upset and practically demanded that I NOT have the surgery! I tried to explain to her, that I have researched it and I am very well aware of the risks involved. She hurried me off the phone saying we would talk about this later and that it was now her goal to research WLS and talk me out of it!!! WHAT??? NO WAY, UH HUH, NOT GONNA HAPPEN! She was totally freaking out.. I am thoroughly comfortable and peaceful about the surgery. And now I have to deal with her *lol* Oi-vey! (as my mom would say) How much you wanna bet she can't talk me out of it? hehe...
Anyway.. enough of this for tonight.. I'm a pretty chatty person and could go on forever, but I don't wanna bore yall:) Ciao baby:)
August 22, 2004
Yay! I go to my surgeon consultation tomorrow and will find out my surgery date! WooooooooooooooooHOOOO!! Seems like its taken forever to get here! I'll let yall know when it is!
I decided to post some things I had questions about when I was new on the board:
NSAIDS= NSAIDS are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs used to treat arthritis. This large class of drugs works by blocking the enzyme involved in inflammation, cyclooxygenase.
FATTY LIVER= In fatty liver, fat accumulates in the liver cells. Simple fatty liver usually does not damage the liver, but is a condition that can be identified by taking a sample of liver tissue (liver biopsy) and examining it under a microscope.
Causes of Fatty Liver= Fat may accumulate in the liver with extreme weight gain or diabetes mellitus. Fatty liver can also occur with poor diet and certain illnesses, such as tuberculosis, intestinal bypass surgery for obesity, and certain drugs such as corticosteroids, or in the setting of heavy alcohol use. A patient has fatty liver when the fat makes up at least 10% of the liver. Eating fatty food by itself does not produce a fatty liver. Simple fatty liver is not associated with any other liver abnormalities such as scarring or inflammation. It is a common finding in patients who are very overweight or have diabetes mellitus. Alcoholism could also result in inflammation of the liver (alcoholic hepatitis) and/or scarring (alcoholic cirrhosis) and needs to be differentiated from NASH by patient history. Possible explanations for fatty liver include the transfer of fat from other parts of the body, or an increase in the extraction of fat presented to the liver from the intestine. Another explanation is that the fat accumulates because the liver is unable to change it into a form that can be eliminated.
OT= Off Topic
DH= Dear Husband
DW= Dear Wife
LOL= Laughing Out Loud
SIWL= Sister In Weight Loss
IMHO= In My Humble Opinion
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August 23, 2004
I HAVE A DATE!!!!!!!! I HAVE A DATE!!!!!!!! OHMYGOSH!! MY SUGERY IS SCHEDULED FOR OCTOBER 12TH, 2004!!!!!!!!!! I just can't believe it! It's finally my turn! Oh wow, I think I'm in shock... I actually cried on the way home. Whoa... So here's the dealio *lol* I had my EKG and some other tests done today... On Oct 6 I go back to meet with the Nutrionist, Anesthesiologist and Dr. Thirlby one last time. Then its surgery time on Oct 12th!! Yeeeeeeeee I can't believe it! Thank you to everyone who supported me, I love all of you on this board (except the meanies *lol*) Write more later... I need to calm down!
I thought I should post how it went with Dr. Thirlby. I arrived at Virginia Mason at about 1:30pm, my appointment was at 2pm. The scheduling lady was kind of uhmmm.. well, she seemed new? *lol* God bless her, she tried to help so much! Anyway, she ended up putting me in the hospital registrar twice. So after dealing with that for about 20minutes, she finally called upstairs to Dr's office and tell them what she had done. They said to send me up, that they'd take care of it. I arrived on the 6th floor where his office is at almost 2pm. At 2pm they promptly called my name and took me and my daughter back and put us in a room. About 10 minutes later, Dr. Coleman (one of Dr. Thirlby's interns) came in, introduced herself and explained that she would do the exchange and gathering of personal information THEN Dr. Thirlby would come in. This was just fine with me, as she seemed to be very knowledgable and polite. Dr. Thirlby came in and sat on the PATIENT table *LMAO* My daughter and I were sitting in chairs, Dr. Coleman on the Dr's Stool, so Dr Thirlby hoped up on the patient table, it was SOO funny. He was like HEY, I remember you! Haha, he said "you were the one that was so excited at the seminar" *LOL* YEP THAT WAS ME!!!! We had a nice, informative talk, he went over any questions I had, explained about my genetics, asked questions, explained risks, and then.. the best part of all.. he took time to talk to my 16 year old daughter! He said I was young, had no diabetes, CHF, or severe co-morbidities and that I should do just fine. I am however a smoker, and he said tsk tsk. LOL I told him I trying to quit, and he said it would be best. He listened to my heart, lungs and abdomen. He checked my ankles for swelling (there weren't and usually don't). Overall, wow, I was so impressed! I am in complete awe of Dr. Thirlby as a person, and his credentials. I trust him completely. Anyway, he said to schedule surgery (yay!) and then sent me down for an EKG. I had my EKG and everything was fine:) I am done with office visits until Oct. 6th. That morning I go for a meeting with my Nutrionist, then I meet the Anesthesiologist, another meeting with Dr. Thirlby and THEN pre-op blood work *lol*. Just the way I like it, get it all done in one day haha:) I won't see Dr.Thirlby until the morning of surgery then, Oct. 12, 2004. I am scheduled for an open RNY. I trust God completely that I am on the correct path:)
August 24th, 2004
Nothing much happened today. Spent a lot of time on the phone explaining and reassuring friends and family about the WLS. What??? Aren't they supposed to be reassuring me? *giggle* ... It's ok, for some reason I'm very peaceful about the whole thing. Probably because I know that God has his hand in this:) One other thing I did today was to try and find something to use for my profile. I love my Camaro's, I love animals, I love Prince *lol* I have so many interests I didn't know what to choose. My dad does Sci-Fi graphics, but his website is down for remodeling, so I couldn't use any of his. I was able to find some fantasy art that I'm sure I'll take some opinions on.. I found a picture that I liked really well... it's titled "Black Magic Woman" *LOL* Now tell me, I clearly state I'm a Christian woman, why would I have a profile picture like that? Because I like the art. That's it plain and simple. I like what I like.. just like anyone else does:) Ok.. not much else to talk about so Ciao for now (HUGS)!
A FUNNY: I just recieved this from a friend, I thought it was super funny:)
Life's journey is not to arrive at the grave safely in a well preserved body,
But rather to skid in sideways, totally worn out, shouting "...holy sh!t...what a ride!"
Heehee:)
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August 29th, 2004
Not much going on... when I'm online, I spend a lot of time reading other people's profiles so I have some idea of what to expect after surgery. Also, I've been reading Tooter's website and copying great recipes. I think the first of Oct. I'll go and buy everything I need. Vitamins, protein powder, etc...
It's kind of weird.. I feel numb lately. Just no emotions about the surgery except for a little bit of excitement. Everyone talks about the rollercoaster ride of emotions they have before surgery, maybe i'm just not close enough yet! After all, I still have 44 days before surgery. It seems like FOREVERRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR from now! *lol*
I think my girlfriend (the one that demanded I NOT have surgery) has given up trying to talk me out of it. I talked to her almost everyday and she's always like "if you're sure this is what you want to do... well ok then" *LOL* YES YES AND YES THIS IS WHAT I WANT TO DO!!! Aren't people supposed to be comforting me? *sigh*
YAYYY!! Two more days til the Prince concert!! WHOO HOOO! I love that man:) hehe... He's the greatest.... Now all I gotta do is find something Purple to wear with my jeans! Oh how I wish I had my new body by now! I'd steal him from his wife! Hahahaha, just kiddin'...
September 1st 2004
Well, not much to report lately... Just playing the waiting game *lol* Hurry up and wait!! Arghhhh I hate it haha, I'm such a brat sometimes. I went to a PRINCE concert last night. It's been about a year or so since I've been to a concert, so I'm surprised my fat butt could still fit in a seat! Oh my gosh, it was the BEST concert ever!! I truly love Prince. I'ma gonna' lose weight and make him love me *LOL* I'm just kiddin':) He's so gifted. Wow.. he is sooo dang hot and talented!! He did his new songs with a great mix of his older songs. He's a new Christian, so he's cleaned things up a lot, which I'm glad to see. Ok, this has nothing to do with weightloss, so I'm gonna say ciao for now *lol*
September 9th, 2004
Well, to be perfectly honest...I've been so busy lately and sooo depressed. I feel bad being depressed though. I have no reason to be. My daughter is healthy, happy, clothed, fed, we have a roof over our head, money in the bank, my surgery is scheduled, etc... I have absolutely NO REASON to be depressed! So why do I feel so darn sad? I really dislike fighting depression. I am usually so positive when I post on this website.. and I really do feel positive, but right now I'm just so sad. I normally fight depression, so this feeling is not new to me. But it seems un-normally (is that a word?) worse right now. Perhaps its part of the rollercoaster ride before surgery? 32 days til my surgery. My daughter wants to take off a week from school to help take care of me after surgery. I keep telling her it won't be necessary, but she's insisting. She has had more questions and concerns lately. Perhaps the reality of what I'm about to embark on is on my mind and hers a lot more lately. Ugh... I don't know what else to say ~ I think I'm just in a negative place right now so I'm going to go! I hate being negative! Ciao for now!
September 12th, 2004
Hi everyone:) Well, I'm feeling better the last few days. I don't think I'm depressed, I think I'm just overly tired because so much is going on in my life right now. From back to school, adopting an elderly lady just right down the road, volunteering at church to looking for a new place to move. Oh yeah, I'm overly tired *haha*.But I will just keep on keepin' on.. heading towards my goal!! I have exactly 30 days from today and I'm going to be a big loser! Whooooooo hooo! I've heard about all the emotions one feels as they near their surgery date. Maybe its not close enough for me yet, but I haven't had much fear. The one who's been feeling lately is my daughter. Bless her heart. She's had some very valid fears lately. "What if you did die in surgery Mom, I don't wanna not have a Mom.." these are some of the statements she's been saying lately. I have her sit down with me and read this website. Let her ask questions and provide her with statistics and medical information. Speaking in general, I think that we, as a society tend to focus on the negative. I try so hard to be positive and let my daughter know to SEE the good, LOOK for the good. There is good in just about every situation, sometime you just have to look harder for it. The media plays a huge part in this scenario. Sex sells, controversy sells, "shock" sells. Ooops, sorry for going all political for a sec ther *LOL* Anyway, my daughter and I are doing good with this. She seems very receptive to the information I show her, which is a good thing:) I've decided to make a list of things I want to do when I lose weight!!
1. Take Hip Hop dance lessons
2. Wear a swimsuit
3. Sky Dive
4. Go horseback riding
5. Swing (yes on the kiddie playground *lol* )
6. Play softball/volleyball at BBQ's
7. Go on a rollercoaster! whooo hoo!
8. Work Out regularly
9. Waterski
10. Live Live Live!!! Quality of life baby!! Thats what I want!
I will continue to add to this list as I think of things:)
11. Take kick-boxing lessons with my daughter!
When I make lists and think of the way I will be after surgery, I think it takes away any fear or doubt that I may have. So I find by focusing on the positives, and believing that I'm on the path God has chosen for me, I have peace of mind. It is funny however, how friends you've had for years start to change. It's almost like they resent me because I will no longer be the "cute, fat girl." Haha, well... then perhaps I need different friends! I always hated that... "you'd be so pretty if you lost weight." What??? KMA (for those that don't know, that means "kiss my a$$.") *lol* Anyway, enough for now... ciao for now good people:)
September 15th, 2004
27 more days til surgery! Wow... I can hardly believe it. I'm pretty well prepared though. I've bought my Fuzzy Navel Nectar, my Carb Countdown Protein Bars, my Splenda, Carnation Instant Breakfast Drink (sugar free), I bought a new nightie and robe for the hospital, new slippees (thats what I call slippers *lol*), new panties and some soft chenile socks. Yumm... I love warm fuzzy socks! I am rather anal I know *haha* I just like to be prepared! Plus it keeps my mind busy. I have been a basket case full of emotions lately. And I just can't seem to get a gripe on them. Dangit, I know I'm doing it...why can't I control it?? Hmmm.... So anyway...I've been single for 2 years.. (by choice) and guess what?! I met a guy. Arghhhhhhhhhhhhh... why now?? He's soooooo cute *hehe* has a good job (bonus points just for having a job!) *lol* He's a total sweetie. But gosh, what timing eh?! He likes me the way I am, but thinks the surgery is a good idea if thats what I want. Great... and he's supportive too *LMAO* Could this get any worse? *haha* I'm kidding. Who knows what will happen. I know my life is going to be changing A LOT soon, so you'll have to stay tuned to see how this one turns out! I haven't got to talk to my angel Terry lately:( I've been so darned busy. She's my angel and I'm hers:) Her surgery is Sept. 28th! Only 13 more days! Wow! I can't wait to see her become a loser! She's so awesome. I wonder if her emotions are like a rollercoaster ride too? .... I'm going to have to ask her. I'm thinking the reason I'm like this lately is because of the upcoming surgery. Anyway, have a super day people! Ciao!
PACKING FOR THE HOSPITAL<<33
I thought this might help, I asked on the board and know it has helped me. Here is a list of somethings that will come in handy to take to the hospital.
1. Robe
2. Slippers
3. Listerine Strips
4. Toiletries
5. Fan (if you tend to get too warm)
6. Baggy Clothes to go home in.
7. Chapstick
8. Those finger tooth wipes they now make.
9. Panties
10. Warm Socks
11. Hair Ties (for longer hair)
12. Your Glasses (if you wear glasses or contacts)
13. A special stuffed animal of my daughters to hold my chest
when I cough.
14. Any Meds you take.
15. CPAP Machine (if you use one)
***This is all I can think of for now, please feel free to email me any ideas you have for the list:) Thanks!
September 19th, 2004
23 more days until surgery! Arghhhh.... I'm so excited! I have been feeling more like myself the last few days. Thank God! It's amazing what a good nights sleep and a day relaxing away can do for a persons mind and body! But I guess thats what I needed:) It's funny how your body lets you know "hey, I've had enough... we need rest..NOW.." *lol* So I'm back to myself and very excited about surgery. 23 more days til my new birthday! Whoo hoo! I've seen so many people on the boards lately with surgery within the next few days, and its so delightful to see how excited they are! When I think about my surgery now, I get little butterflies of excitement mixed with worry. But the excitement outweighs the worry, by far. By the Grace of God, I will come thru this with flying colors and be on the road to a healthy, active lifestyle. And I can't wait! I'm SOOO ready to live again:) Thank you to everyone who read my profile, realized I was getting depressed, and took the time to email me words of encouragement!! I feel so loved! This common bond we all share is so personal, to all of us! I can't thank yall enough:) God Bless all of you!
September 22nd 2004
Hey there, Hi there, Ho there! *lol* 19 more days til surgery! Yee hawwww! I'm so there and ready for it NOW! One thing I've seemed to have forgotten lately is my faith! Wow, what a thing to forget! The whole surgery, moving, taking care of the elderly lady.. doesn't matter what it is.. its all in the Lord's time, NOT mine! Under normal circumstances, I know this. But I've been so overwhelmingly busy lately, I've seemed to want to rush things along at my own pace. Well, it just doesn't work like that, and the more we push, usually we end up with an even bigger mess! By the Grace of God, I realized what I was doing (or not doing) before I created a huge mess! I'm thankful for every aspect of my life and am patiently hanging on for my date, moving and whatever else the Lord has in store for me! Jeremiah 29:11 proves to me that God has a plan for me, and for everyone else! This whole experience makes me so humble, and reminds me that above all, you must have faith. I have received a tremendous amount of supportive emails lately and I want to thank each and every one of you, they do mean soo very much to me! God Bless all of you and remember to keep the faith!! Love God!! ~Kimanne
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September 27th, 2004
Well, as I sit here, I'm smoking my last cigarette. Ugh... this is going to be sooo darn hard! I just have to keep praying and I can get thru this. I don't want to go into surgery a smoker, so I need to stop NOW! I've heard that sucking on hard candy helps the craving, but I'm not a big candy eater so that won't work. I guess I'll just have to do something else when I get the craving. Ha... easier said then done, so if you are reading this, please pray for me!! I must quit, I have to quit.. not only to be healthy going thru surgery, but wouldn't it be ironic to have the surgery, lose the weight and then be diagnosed with lung cancer?? Oh my... what a thought:( Well, thats my thought for the day.. no more ciggies...
October 4th 2004
Okay... so I'm a big fat liar.. I quit smoking for 4 days and started again:( What is up with me? Whyyy oh WHY is it so hard? I have eight days before surgery.. I'm stopping NOW! Arghhh... I'm a basket case. All my shoppping is done, my daughter is taken care of, the only thing left is this 'letter' that people write to loved ones. I had a big discussion on the board about this last night. I don't feel the need to write a letter. Am I weird? I view it as very fatalistic. I know I'm going to be fine through surgery. I know God is watching over me and will guide me through with flying colors:) I wouldn't have even thought of writing letters to loved ones until I read it on the website here! So anyway, for those of you keeping up, I was moving before my surgery, well... that got screwed up with the new owner so now I will be moving two weeks after my surgery YEEHAWWW *lol* sounds like fun eh? Oh.. and my dad fell and broke his foot:( He lives in another state and is in poor health so it broke my heart that he's alone going through this. I asked him if he'd like me to postpone my surgery and he said absolutely not.. he's a big boy and can take care of himself! *LOL* Whelp.. alrighty then! He's so darned stubborn!! I just pray for God to watch over him and comfort him~ he's been very ill and is all alone:( For those of you pre-ops reading this, I want to say that up until the last couple weeks or so, I had been very peaceful about the surgery. And I still am peaceful, but I'm finding that my mind races, and at any given moment my thoughts will jump to something else, or I become emotional for no reason at all.... so if you're feeling like you are weird, or wondering if this is normal, I believe it is. I've wondered if I should try just ONE more diet, IF this surgery will work, is the surgery TOO drastic.. I'm finding that I'm questioning everything, no matter what it is. This is a MAJOR change, and major changes are always scary and we tend to be resistant to it. I pray every night that God keeps an eye on me and makes sure I'm on the right path! Anyway, enough of my ramblings for tonight!! I have been extraordinarily tired lately, probably due to the emotional ups and downs, yeehaww... what a ride!
October 6th 2004
Six more days until surgery!!! Yay! Whelp... today I went for all my pre-op testing and saw the nutrionist. I started off my day waking up really early, partly due to excitement, and partly due to having to take a taxi to Seattle. (my car broke down last week) At 7am the taxi driver showed up, I had requested it to be here at 7:30am, but oh well. *lol* I had a nice ride in the typical Seattle rainy weather, it took about an hour and a half to get there, so it was a good thing he did come early! When I arrived, I checked into the front desk at Virginia Mason. I was about a half hour early, but they sent me up to the nutritionist early. It worked out perfectly because Kathleen (the nutritonist) could get me right in! She explained everything about the clear liquid diet, which I would be on until I left the hospital. And the full liquid diet, which I would be on from the day I left the hospital until I came back for my two week post-op check up. We also went over the vitamins I would have to add into my daily regime after I returned home. I learned a lot from her and I was really shocked when she pulled out a 2oz measuring cup (approx. 1/4 cup) and showed me what my tummie will be able to hold! Wow!! Thats tinyyyy! She was a very positive person, and I felt the excitement within me growing! She told me many stories of people that she has seen come back completely changed! Oh yeah, I was also given a food journal that I must bring back in my two week post op visit.
From here I went up to meet with my surgeon, Doc Thirlby, one last time before surgery. At first one of his interns came in and did all the paperwork/questions and then he came in. I love this Doctor! He praised me for only gaining 3 pounds *lol* He said a lot of people gain 15-20+ before surgery because they run out and eat everything they think they will no longer be able to eat. I think the three lbs was due to the fact that I'm going to start my cycle soon, but who knows. He told me about the procedure again and made sure I understood everything. I had a few more questions for him, which he gladly answered. He reviewed my chart and asked if anything has changed. I said no, of course. He told me about the bowel prep the day before *ICK* and went through what was going to happen, step by step. Best part of this is he jumped right back upto the patients table again!!! *LOL* I was sitting in his chair when he came in so he just hopped right up on the table. I think thats soo funny! So anyway.. he told me how to buy some Hibiclens soap or antibacterial soap and start using that to shower with a few days before hand. He reminded me to bring my CPAP, which by the way, is already packed to go to the hospital *lol* I don't use it much, it drives me crazy. He kept saying how healthy I was for a big person and that things should go just fine! I'm like yes, I know!! I think he gets a kick out of how excited I am because he smiles a lot and kind of giggles as we're talking.. either that or he thinks I'm a complete DORK! **LOL** So from here I went to the anesthesiologist. I had to wait a little bit as I was early to all my appointments. I was greeted by an RN, I can't remember her name, but she was very nice! We chit-chatted about our teenage daughters *lol* Which is always a good icebreaker, anyone who has a teen understands this, hehee... She called for the lab to come down and draw my blood for the pre-op tests. She gathered my information, told me what it would be like before and after surgery, and then said she'd send in the Anesthesiologist. Doctor Kimberly (can't remember her last name) came in and introduced herself. She went over my chart and results from the EKG. Everything seemed to be in order. She explained (as the nurse had) everything that was going to happen and asked me about prior surgeries. I had never had a problem, although I did get sick once after having my gallbladder removed. She said they could give me some of that really sour/sweet tasting medicine beforehand to combat the nausea. The lab was there and drew the blood. Doc Kimberly asked me if I had any questions.. and I did.. I just wanted her to know I was a smoker.. that I had tried to quit, I had cut down, but hadn't actually quit. She said tsk, tsk but better to be honest then lie about it! Then we laughed and joked and I told her I did not want to wake up til it was completely over! And she said, oh yeah, don't worry, you won't wake up during surgery! ( I had just recently read on the OH board about some people waking up during surgery ) She also explained about the epidural analgisia they use. Having three back surgeries, I'm kind of leary of that more then anything.. I just don't want anything messing with my back ya' know? But she said it wouldn't, so I'll hold her to her word *LOL* After seeing her I was done for the day! I walked around Seattle for a little bit until my cab showed up. Then I enjoyed a nice long cab ride home in the windy, Seattle, October weather! It was just beautiful out... a little windy, with beautiful hi sunny clouds against a pretty blue sky! Yay! I felt so good and I kept thinkin' "I'm almost there, I'm almost there!!" I can't wait til' next Tuesday! I just can't believe it! The Lord is so good to me:) Well, thats my day today, God bless!
October 11th 2004
Tomorrow's the big day!! Yay! I'm so excited! Lets see.. about today.. well, at 2pm I had to drink the yummie (not) Magnesium Citrate stuff for the bowel prep. It is this super sour/sweet/salty tasting stuff that cleans ya' out! *lol* I keep thinking it isn't working very well cuz' it hasn't had THAT much of an effect on me. I'm still super calm, almost to the point of thinking I'm super abnormal because I still have no fear. I would think fear is normal. Whats wrong with me? *sigh* The only fear I have is worrying about my daughter. She is still very apprehensive about the surgery. So if you're reading this, please pray for her:) My surgery check in time is 11am tomorrow morning! Yay~they saved the best for last! *lol* If everything goes according to plans (which I SOO know it will!), I'll be home on Friday. I have been on liquids from 2pm today, until midnight and then I'm not allowed anything after that except 2 cups of liquids within two hours of my check in time.. yay *lol* My phone has been ringing off the hook, friends calling to say good luck and God bless, I've spoken to both my parents and my daughter and I have spent the evening together:) Things are really in order, so I guess I deserve a little peace right now *lol* I'm really tired and this magnesium stuff gave me a stomach ache, I think I'll go lay down. Well this will be my last post until I'm a big loser! Thanks to everyone for such overwhelming support:) I love you all and you're in my prayers always! ~Kimanne
October 20th 2004
8 days post op! Yay!! Well, here's what happened within the last week! I went into surgery at 11am on Tuesday, Oct. 12th. I went thru surgery and recovery in a breeze! There was only one time when I was like, "OMG WHAT'D I DO???" and that was when the NG tube was still in my nose, omgosh, no one told me about this!! It was absolutely horrible! Thank the Lord above they took it out that morning! When I got to my regular room, my blood pressure dropped to about 57/35 or so.. but I usually run around 90/60 so I wasn't that concerned and neither were they, all they had to do was increase my IV fluids. Wall-la! It worked! My BP came right back up to where it was supposed to be and has stayed there:) The next day following surgery, the vein in my right hand collapsed and all the fluid had been pumping directly into my tissues, so I had "free willy" arm for a few days *lol* This was simple too, they just placed an IV in the left hand/arm. I have to tell you... epidurals are AWESOME! I was weighed daily, and gained about 7 lbs. OMGOSH! Thank God I already knew about the weight gain due to fluids haha or I would have freaked out! I must say, I had the best hospital stay ever! I was paired up with a Mary Kay lady! Yay! Whoo hooo! The whole week was like a slumber party! I even had the nurses braiding my hair for me:) It was so fun and relaxing. Best of all, I was surrounded by many, many Christian people! One night, a nurse that happened to be my favorite came by and we were talking. She said "I am amazed at how many people you have praying for you Kim..." This caught me off guard a bit and I asked her, how did you know I had people praying for me? She stated " In all my years of service, I have never seen anyone heal so quickly as you, be so positive as you and just have a real desire to live... That is the power of prayer" WOW!!!!!!!!! I was shocked!!!!!!!!! So that lead into a conversation about being a Christian and what it meant, etc, etc.. Turned out that she is Christian and loves the Lord with all her heart:) I had so many laughs over the last week. I had this whole issue with being "wiped" *lol* This quickly got around the nurses' station and they were giving me grief, oh my gosh it was funny. I'd ring my light when I was done pottyin' and they'd send Ceaser ( a male nurse ) and he'd come to my door... I'd say Ceaser, you know you can't wipe me, go get Stacie or one of the girls... he'd laugh and laugh and say, nope they all went home for the night! Meanwhile, they'd all be standing right outside the bathroom door gigglin' at me:) Hehehee it was so much fun. On top of that, my room mate and I had an ocean side view on our 10th floor room! So at night, we could turn off all the lights and just sit in there and talk and watch all the Seattle lights on the waterfront, omgosh, it was wonderful. My room mate, Lori, and I really watched out for each other in there. She'd have a good day, and take care of us, or vice versa, I'd have a good day and take care of us. The nurses just laughed and laughed at us. They said they loved coming to our room because it was like a nice, warm apartment instead of a hospital room *LMAO* How funny is that? Needless to say, I was welcomed to the other side by a bunch of very loving, caring people:) Some I knew, some I didn't. But let me tell you, the way this journey has started out, I better hang on for the ride, cuz' this is gonna be a GOOD one!! Thanks to everyone who visited me in the hospital, called me, or helped support me or my daughter on the board:):) I love you all! MwauhhhhhhhhhhhhXOXOXOXOXX~ Big hugs and kisses, Kimanne!
October 25th 2004
Well, today I went for my first post-op visit since surgery 11 days ago. Yeeehawww I about fell over when I saw the scale I've lost 18 pounds!! Well, I've actually lost 25lbs, but they don't let me count the 7 lbs I added during the hospital My Doc was so pleased with me! He said I was his star patient awwww, isn't he sweet I bet he says that to all the women *lol* He removed my staples and my incision is doing just fine! I also saw the nutrionist today and yay I get to start pureed/soft foods!! Whoo hoo!! What a super day I had! Ciao and God Bless!
November 9th 2004
Four weeks post op and 32 lbs gone forever!! Whoo hooo! I'm so excited! I have been having some difficulty getting in all my protein. I do ok with the 48oz of liquids, but the protein is the one thats a bugger. My nutrionist gave me some liquid protein *ICK* and we're talking BIGTIME ICK :) So I think I'm going to buy some unflavored protein because I need to get my energy level up. I'm doing great my Doc says, walking everyday, more active then I used to be... but I feel like I should be doing more. I'm back to taking it easy for a few days though. Yesterday I fell down the stairs at my new house and landed on the sidewalk. *Ouchie:(* I landed on my left side, so I'm quit bruised and scraped up. I think my incision hurts because of tensing up my muscles when I fell. I landed so hard, I wouldn't be surprised if I "bounced" *lol* Other then that, I have had a complication free recovery. I am very blessed! I seem to tolerate just about everything. Mashed potatoes and cottage cheese don't sit well with me though. They make my pouch
feel 'heavy.' So I just avoid them for now. I have been eating lots of tuna with fat free mayo and string cheese. I drink water and Propel, once in awhile I'll have a couple ounces of fat free or Carbcountdown Chocolate milk. I've gotten so many emails asking me if I regret having this surgery. And to be honest, absolutely not. Or shall I say "not yet" *lol* At times I can get very frustrated with the head hunger and all, but I'm finding that if I just go do something else, I'm fine. This is all a learning experience, trial and error sort of speak! I feel like a brand new baby sometimes *lol* Learning to eat all over again AND learning to deal with emotions head on. For those of you considering surgery... this IS NOT an easy fix... use up all your other options first. Because this is por vida! Love God, Kimanne
November 23rd 2004
Happy upcoming Turkey Day everyone!! Well, its been six weeks today and I've lost 40lbs. I'm so excited! It has been full of trial and errors though. A few times of feeling really sick, a few times of questioning myself why I did this... and lots and lots of time dealing with the dreaded 'head hunger.' As I've heard many older post-ops say, it does get easier... its already gotten a tad bit easier for me in my short time on the losers side. I have also struggled with proportion sizes. I still want to pile a big helping of whatever onto my plate... and feel obligated to eat it. So now I MAKE SURE I have a very small portion so I don't overeat. And eating slow?? Good gosh, I didn't think this was going to be an issue.. but it is!! They want me to take 30 minutes to eat? I'm lucky to do it in 10-15minutes... I try, Lord knows I try.. but I just can't make such a small portion last that long. Can you? *lol* I chew, chew chew.. and still get done in under 15 minutes. I can't believe the clothes I can fit into now.. and comfortably too I might add! This is just crazy~ I feel a lot better and I'm only six weeks out. My incision ( I had open RNY ) is still tender and so are my stomach muscles.. but I can do just about anything like before except lift heavier items. I have a ton of energy now... so I'm thinking of joining a gym when my incision feels better. Right now I'm sticking to walking:) All in all, I"m doing wonderful, and this surgery has really changed my life for the better. (even though I DO question my decision at times... I think thats normal) I thank the Lord above for walking me through this journey and leading me down the right path. I believe with all my heart that this was the correct choice for me:) Love God, Kimanne
December 4th, 2004
Hey People! Well, a quick update on whats going on in my life:) I'm feeling better everyday... exercising, FINALLY getting in ALL of my protein! WHOO HOO! After trying liquid protein (Prostat 64) and numerous Protein mixes, Syntrax Nectar and Crystal Sky sit pretty well with me. I think its a mind over matter thing because I couldn't stand these at first.. then I just decided "hey, I have to do this right? So just grin and bear it" I've had way more energy since getting in all my protein too,which feels great:) I'm even going to join a gym at the beginning of January. Last night I went out dancing! Yes, thats right folks, I went DANCING! I went to this great club in Seattle and had soooooo much fun:) I had one drink and only drank 1/4 of it IF that. I danced most of the time and drank water. It was a real hoot:) It was a hip hop club and I was diggin' gettin' my groove on *LOLOLOLOL* When I weighed myself this morning... I dropped three pounds overnight... I'm going dancing more often! My incision is still sore, and the muscles around it.. but it gets better everday. Oh yeah, I now have a scar buddy from the club last night *hehee* I met a guy who had his spleen removed and has the exact same scar I have (open incision) so we have now become SCAR BUDDIESSSSSS!!! Guess ya had to be there, it was so funny last night when we were saying it lol. Nothing else is new.. no problems or anything to report so I'll say ciao for now! XoXo~ Kimanne
December 18th 2004
Merry week before Christmas everyone!!! Just wanted to give a quick update on me! Well, as of this morning, I am down to 265lbs as compared to 319lbs when I left the hospital 10 weeks ago! I have joined a gym and my daughter and I work out at least three times a week. Keep in mind that my incision (i had open RNY) and the muscles around it are still sore at times so I can't do anything too strenous yet. So I'm walking a few miles a day, riding the stationary bike three miles and doing arm lifts on a machine so that I can start toning my arms! My daughter is incredible support for me:) I just don't know what I'd do without her. She is my best friend *hugs to her<3* I have been getting all my liquid and protein in, and have had good tolerance with foods introduced. Yesterday I had some steak, about 2oz and it did just find in my new tummie:) I've heard that some people can't tolerate beef very well, but I seemed to do a-ok! I feel so blessed with all that I've been through with this surgery! I have had zero complications and hardly ever dump, (maybe three times if that so far). Life is good, real good as a matter of fact:) Oh, ya know what else?? I've even caught a few men checking me out *LOL* This is absolutely crazy, I feel like I'm in some dream state and when I wake up I'll be a size 4XL again! Right now I'm in a 2XL and 20/22's. Hard to believe I was soooooooo big:( I don't ever wanna be like that again. But this is the clincher, right here.... I quit smoking the day before surgery (Oct. 11th, 2004) and since that day I have not smoked. It is amazing how much easier I can breath, walk, talk, sleep, EVERYTHING seems so much easier! Between the WLS and the quitting smoking, WOWZERS!!! Life is good... and I'm getting healthy. Thank God... God is so good to me. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to everyone:) Thats my update for now! XoXo~ Kimanne
December 28th 2004
Hi everyone! Just a quick update on me since thats who this page is about hehehehe:):) *lol* As usual, I'm doing good... the Lord loves me and works in my life everyday! ~I have been working out at least three times a week, getting in all my fluids and protein and have a new found addiction for ham! *lol* Ham has so much protein in it, and I just LOVE it! Since I have decided to increase my protein over the last month or so... (this is kind of embarassing!) I have been having issues going potty... So I need to find some ideas for fiber. I've heard of people taking flaxseeds so I might have to give them a try. I'm 11 weeks out today and down to 260lbs from 319lbs when I left the hospital! Whew @#$%&!! Can you believe it?? This is an incredible tool! Sometimes I think that I will get to a point and quit losing, like when I tried to diet so many times! That somehow, this isn't going to work for me and that I'm going to fail. As long as I continue to work this new tool, I believe I'm going to be fine:) I went to a store yesterday with my daughter and tried on clothes! Oh my gosh! I was trying on a jacket to a really cute work out suit and I didn't even have to go to the plus sizes! I fit into an Extra Large!!! Granted, it was a TEENSY bit snug, but hey, it FIT!!! *lol* This reminds me... I should do my measurements soon:) Hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas. Many blessings! XoXo~ Kimanne
January 20th, 2005
WoW! I have been so busy, it's been awhile since I updated. Weighed in this morning and I'm down to 249 from 319!! Thats 70lbs in three months and one week! WOW!!!!!!!! I have been having puter problems lately, so I won't post much but wanted to share my success:) I hope everyone is doing well, God Bless, Kimanne
March 26, 2005
Wow, its been a long time since I updated... I'm doing very very well. Lost about 109 lbs so far.... its crazy *lol* Terry and I go dancing every weekend and spend lots of time OUT of the house... funny how we get our lives back after losing so much weight. Whats interesting though, is I still (in my head) view myself at 319lbs. I actually have to REALLY look, or try my old pants on to see the weightloss sometimes. I guess thats why they recommend counseling and support groups:) I have a friend who had gastric bypass surgery eight years ago, and still views herself as heavy and she weighs 110lbs. So yes, I would encourage support groups and or counseling. Me, I go to counseling and it seems to help with all the emotions. Anyway, I'll have to do my measurements soon... I'm in a size 13/14 WOW.. Ican't believe it! Hope everyone is doing well, God Bless, Kimanne
May 31st, 2005
Just a quick update... I am down to 190lbs from 319lbs! I still find that I have to make myself eat. My hunger has come back a little bit, but not much. I have pushed it a few times and YES! The pouch still works! *lol* Whether its sugar or fat... it lets me know when I've had too much. I have only dumped a few times.. but it seems like I've dumped more lately then in the beginning. Probably because I'm trying so many different foods now. But regardless of why, the tool works~ which is exactly why I had this surgery. I'm a size 11 which is incredible since I haven't been this size since my daughter was born almost 17 years ago...!!! The doctor says my goal weight is 170lbs before the plastics... so I have about 23lbs to go! It just seems so surreal to me... its only been 7 months since my surgery and its like I have a whole new life. I've heard so many people talk about the extra skin.. and yes, while it is a nuisance... it sure beats being as heavy as I was. My doctor says I can have the plastics in October, so I'm pretty excited about that. Anyway, all is well with me, other then the fact that I've become extremely busy. Hope everyone is doing well & God Bless!!
XoXo~ Kimanne
August 22nd, 2005
Hey to everyone who is keeping up with my profile .... (obviously I'm not:( ) My computer went down a few months ago, so I'm using the library computer every now and then. I apologize to those who have sent me emails and they have gone unanswered. I should be getting a new computer system within the next month and will respond to all. It seems as though losing weight and all that comes with it doesn't leave you much time and you suddenly end up with more of a "life" then what you're used to as an obese person. *how sad* I'm still learning to juggle everything, I haven't had any complications *thank the Lord*... and I am down to about 160lbs from 319lbs in just about ten months. *whew* How incredible I must say. I miss this board a lot... in fact, its a great support system in and of itself... and I plan to be on here a lot more once my computer is back online. I miss all of you and each of you are in my prayers. XoXo~ Kimanne
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on 9/8/2004.
