I didn't think your question was nosy at all! At this point, I am receiving "state" disability, as I was a state employee prior to becoming disabled. In Oklahoma, the only state sponsored medical assistance is for individuals receiving social security disability. Once my application for SSD gets approved, then I'd be eligible for state medical. . . but until then, there are no programs for me. I've looked at other states, and I think that almost every other state has medical for disabled people while awaiting SSD. . but not Oklahoma. SUCKS!!! Once I start feeling better, I am going to go on a mass campaign to contact legislators and implore them to pass legislation to help disabled people in my situation.

Susan, The info I've learned about KBS is from a local site, WLSIndy.com. Several on the board has had it and all at 18 months+ post-op. From it, I also learned that the extra stitches were starting to be used ~May 2004 to prevent KBS from occurring. You may want to check on the complications board on here to see if you can learn more. I hope you get the answers you need tomorrow. Sherri 344/207/140

I have the ITCH all over and it's driving me nuts. I have scratched so much in so many places that I've made sores. I was told that it's my nerves. But I was just wondering if any of you guys out there have the same problem?? Maybe it's dry skin from it being so loose, or I dunno... But I have gotten a cortosone shot, predisone pills, prescription cream that is suppose to help.. that was 3 wks ago and nothing helps.. I wake up scrathing and everywhere I scratch it leaves a bruise. Any & all comment, advice, etc will be greatly appreciated. Jo 444/414/278.5 -165.5

Hi Sue, Thanks for your response. My husband is getting better each day. It is so nice to see him acting more normal and getting around better. He had a clotting problem last night with his intravenous pic port in his arm. Over the phone, the on call doctor advised him to wait until monday when he sees his regular doctor in his office to do anything. The home health nurse wanted me to take him right to the hospital. Bill would have nothing to do with the hospital after spending 4 weeks there. Well he is still O.K., but again I am scared!!! We just keep saying our prayers. I have an appointment with the surgeron for a consultation about my stomach Monday the 11th. The area is getting a little bigger each day, but usually doesn't hurt. I had a regular visit with my internist last friday and found out that I have lost 12 pounds during the last three months of my husbands illness. I was so thrilled that I had not gained anything. I know I was eating what little I could, in an irrational manner, trying to COPE with all the stress. I am so glad I did not do any weight damage. I seem to be in better control now, but I break down in tears for no reason. Thanks for caring, Susan

My issues probably don't compare to yours but after having the surgery and loosing the weight i've lost I now have high cholesterol. I actually laughed when I was told this cause it was just nuts. My doctor said that in my case he really believes that it is hereditary. Honestly though I really hope that you get better and that what ever your doctor(s) put you on makes everything better. My asthma has actually gotten worse since surgery but the meds I am on are keeping it under control. I've had asthma since I was a tiny baby so I really didn't think having the surgery would cure that. I hope your able to get some sleep and take some time out to care for yourself. Shannon