AntiqueAngel
~~My Story~~
Hello and welcome to my journey. I am a 40 year old mother of 3 grown children and 1 grandson. I have lived in Tennessee for almost 3 years. I met my soulmate when I moved here and he was more than I had ever dreamed of. I am very lucky to have the life I have now considering what I went through to get here, except there are a few things missing that would complete it. My health. My energy. My self confidence.
My husband and I travel alot. To me, it is not really a vacation. It is constant worry about what to wear to make me look good. I hate shopping for a vacation.This past June we went to Thailand and I was concerned about all the prescriptions I had to take with me. I made sure I had very recent refills so that it would not appear suspicous. Fortunately we didn't get searched. However, I still had to worry about getting them all updated on refills as we were gone 3 weeks. Then, I had to make sure I had them ALL in my bag. Plus, I have to worry about room in my bag, because being big means more material and the clothes pretty much took up all the space. To top things off, when you go to places like Vegas, Thailand, Gatlinburg, or any tourist area, you are much better off walking....unless you are obese. It was murder on my legs, feet, knees and ankles. Does this sound like I was really on vacation?? I remember when we went to Vegas, one year ago this week. One day after walking down half the strip, I was in the hotel room crying and wanting to come home because I hurt soooo bad. I didn't want to get out again! I felt so bad for my husband because he wanted to gt out and do things. I felt like a party pooper.
We had a class reunion this year. I was so embarrassed. I felt like Shamu at a reunion with a school of dolphins. I worry about people seeing me this way. We are taking a cruise to the Bahamas in February. My husband wants me to live out my lifelong dream of swimming with the dolphins. Am I going to look like Shamu with them??
Oh, did I mention that I have a nickname? It's Bebop. Growing up I had so much energy, I bounced off the walls. Even as an overweight person, I bounced off the walls. Now, I don't bounce at all. I am too heavy. I have no energy. Even exercising when I diet is too hard to do. And dieting, don't even mention another diet or I will throw up. I can only imagine how someone feels who has been obese all their life. They do not know how it feels to have energy. I do, and it makes me more excited about this surgery.
I started doing research about a year ago, off and on. More so since going to Thailand and knowing what bummer time my husband must have had since I couldn't do all the things we wanted to. I told him to go alone next year so he will have a better time.
Then, I started considering it even more and researching in depth anything I could find. Then, I asked myself, can I put myself through that?? Can I live without this, or do without that?? Finally, I told myself, "Food is a temporary fix. Being healthy is forever. Living is forever." I have not been living really. I decided on 8/20/03, it is time to do something. Dieting and exercising is not going to help me anymore.
I got online and started looking for doctors who do bariatric surgery in Nashville. I was lead to this wonderful site. Somehow, I got a number and learned I had to attend a seminar. I called and scheduled the seminar, then I told my husband when he called me from work. He had not known I was considering it, and it took him 3 seconds to say..."Well honey, I think it's great. You will feel so much better, and be so much healthier." I was elated that he was so supportive. What a wonderful husband he is!!!
Now, the journey begins.....
8/20/03 After alot of research I made my decision to have this procedure done. I have gone through alot of halfway successful dieting that has failed, now I am battling health issues. I have discussed this over with my husband and we both feel it is best I do this. I am looking for a doctor and do not know yet if I am a candidate. I did call and scheduled to attend the seminar for 8/26/03.
8/26/03 Attended the seminar at Centennial. I was impressed with the information. Dr. Dyer was our speaker. Now, it is just filling out the paperwork and seeing if I am eligible for the surgery, and get approved by the insurance company.
8/28/03 Recieved a call from Centennial. They needed a little bit more information. This means they recieved my paperwork.
9/9/03 Called Lisa to see to check the status of my approval. She said paperwork was submitted on 9/4. It's only been a week, and will take several, so we will wait.
10/4/03 Got my letter of approval in the mail today. It was approved on 9/27. I am so excited. Now, I just wait till Monday to see what is next.
10/6/03 Called Lisa. She asked me which doctor I chose, and I chose Dr. Olsen. She gave me his number and said to call and make an appointment after my psych eval at the Evelyn Frye Center. I called Evelyn Frye Center and made the appointment for 10/9/03 at 5 pm. Now, if I can only get through this without being taken out in a straight jacket.
10/9/03 Made it to the EFC at 4 pm. Wanted to allow enough time for rush hour traffic and any tie ups...it went smoothly. They went ahead and gave me my test. It was 344 questions. I felt like I was back in school taking one of those aptitude tests where you fill in those little circles with a number 2 pencil. After a lengthy wait in the waiting room. I finally got to go back to see the psychologist who asked me alot of personal questions about my background, my marriage, my religious beliefs...etc. She asked me if I knew the risks, and what would I do if there were complications, etc. Then came the moment she said I was a fine candidate for the surgery. To anyone who is considering this surgery, it was $250 for the psych eval and it is NOT covered by any insurance. She said the paperwork would be submitted to Dr. Olsen by morning.
10/10/03 Called Dr. Olsen's office around noon to allow time for the paperwork to arrive. Got my consult appointment with Dr. Olsen for 10/30/03
10/30/03 Went to see Dr. Olsen today. I found out he is out of network so I paid $230 for my consultation. He was very thorough in explaining the procedure and how the procedure can be successful or fail. He explained the risks and such. After my consult with him, I got my date for 11/20/03, 3 weeks from today. They will be sending me the information in the mail about my pre-op testing. Since I will be 1 week post op on Thanksgiving, we plan to have Thanksgiving dinner the Sunday before my surgery.
11/6/03 Recieved a call from Centennial that I am scheduled for my pre-op and pre-registration on 11/11/03. They went over what to expect on surgery day to get it set in my mind so that nothing is a surprise. Okay, sometimes I think they would have been better off explaining these things to me after I am sedated and barely knows what is going on. I have 2 weeks to think about this now.
11/10/03 I have been getting emails from some who have had the surgery, and is having the surgery. I am so grateful for each of them. I am starting to feel the support. I also just found the message board on here. I am getting alot of information from that. Until tomorrow...
11/11/03 Today was pre-op day. I went to the admissions office and got registered. This is where I found out the hospital is out of network and there is a $500 deductible. So, I took care of that. They sent me up to the second floor and after about a half hour wait, I got in to see a clerk who took down my complete medical history. After that, I went to the lab for my blood work and EKG. They had me get on a table and did my EKG that took 5 seconds once they put all the pads on me and hooked them up. All in all, about 5 minutes. Then, they drew my blood, took a urine sample and I was good to go. The whole process from the time I got called back was less than an hour.
After I was done at the hospital I went to Dr. Olsen's office to see the dietician. She went over each protien supplement available and which works best, taste best...etc. Then, she went through each post-op diet stage 1 at time and asked me if there were any questions after each stage. I already had a menu made out and asked her to look over it for improvements. She was very impressed and commented that my attitude was great and I was ready and would do fine after the surgery. Here is one of the menus I prepared:
Breakfast:
2 Scrambled eggs with
2 slices of FF cheese, Protein: 24 Calories: 230
Lunch:
1/2 can tuna, Protein: 21 Calories: 90
1/2 c. cottage cheese, Protein: 14 Calories: 90
2 Tbs. green peas, Protein: .8 Calories: 15
Dinner:
3 oz chicken breast, Protein: 21 Calories: 90
2 Tbs. green beans, Protein: .5 Calories: 8
2 Tbs. creamed corn, Protein: .5 Calories: 22
Daily total= Protein: 81.8 Calories: 545
I can honestly say, I am really ready for this surgery. I do not feel nervous anymore. I am sure reality will hit the morning we leave, however, I feel really good about this.
To anyone who may be reading this and has not had the surgery and may be feeling nervous, let me explain what I am doing to prevent thinking the unthinkable. For one, I am recalling all the things I have deprived myself of for years to avoid gaining. I want to enjoy them one last time. I am not thinking about the surgery. I am fully aware that after the surgery, I will be in alot of pain, but not anymore than I have been before and survived. I may or may not be moody after surgery, but I have already gone over this with my husband and instructed him to ignore me if I feel sorry for myself, or start asking what did I do to myself, and bear with me. I know in a short time following, I will be so happy I did.
If you are scheduled for surgery and nervous or scared, think about what to take to the hospital. I will go over things I am taking that you may not think of. Also, think about what you will need or not need after you return home. For instance, I have instructed my husband that I will be removing our bathroom scales, and they will not return to the bathroom during this journey. I do not want to be aware of plateaus that will discourage me. If you have had the surgery and are getting discouraged due to plateaus, then quit doing that to yourself and get rid of the darn scales. There is no need to get discouraged and regret doing this. Allow yourself only to be weighed at the doctors office and if you hit a plateau, the nurse or your doctor will be there to discuss it with you and encourage you. :)
Another thing I would like to encourage you to do is to start thinking about a menu plan. I included the amount of proteins and calories for each serving and total for the day. This will keep your mind at work for a while, but it will be well worth the time now, rather than when you start a blended diet and have no idea where to start. I did this so I could have the things on hand that I would need beforehand.
Okay, about what I have done for preparing my home for the new me. I do have a recliner and if you haven't already heard, it will be a good idea to have one and plan on living in it until you feel like you can get in and out of the bed. I am putting a card table next to the recliner to put EVERYTHING I will need on it. Vitamins, dressings, remotes, books, phones...etc
Now, on to what I will have in my bag to take to the hospital that you may not think of. Of course, I will take my supplements and bottled water that I will need. I also plan to take my own pillow, my own washcloth (to wet my mouth with that first day when we can't have anything to drink), chapstick, button up pajamas, feminine wipes, powder and some baby wipes to "sponge bathe" with until I can shower.
I have noticed some have posted what they want to do after WLS. So, why not post mine:
Yoga
Martial Arts
Run
Keep up with Noah
Walk with my Shih Tzu in the park
Swim without exhaustion
Go on vacation and make hubby keep up with me for a change
Put on a swimsuit and not worry about people staring at me
Eat cottage cheese instead of looking like cottage cheese
Shop at Victoria's Secret
Wear clothes to show off the way I look instead of hiding the way I look
To inspire anyone who is considering having this surgery
Dedicate myself to helping others who are taking their journey
In this post, I want to share a link to a live WLS video. This was sent to me by someone who saw my profile and wrote me. It really helped me. Simply click on the link and go to 'view archive' at the upper left corner. That takes you straight to surgery.
Thanks Rhonda!!!
Okay, I think I will call it a day. Unless there are any changes I do not plan to post again until the day before surgery. I will have to be on a clear liquid diet then, and will update my feelings as the clock is ticking and I am minutes away from surgery.
11/17/03 Well, I know I said I would not update until Wednesday, but I wanted to add a few things in here. I went out over the weekend to get everything I needed for after my surgery. protein drinks, protein mixes, vitamins, foods for the pureed stage, bandages, pill crusher, food scale...etc. I have already enjoyed the things I had avoided to keep from gaining weight. I even had a Big Mac and my daughter said, "Mom, you haven't had a Big Mac in a looooong time." I told her why and that I was going to enjoy one for the last time...she kinda chuckled. But it had been over 5 years since I had one. Once when I read how many calories was in one, I sort of shyed away from them and ordered fish sandwiches when I took the kids to McDonalds. I did have my Thanksgiving dinner yesterday as planned. There is plenty left to nibble on until the end of tomorrow when I will eat for the last time with my big stomach. I go on clear liquids on Wednesday. What a day that will be. I get really weak if I don't eat, so I plan not to do anything strenuous that day. I am already packed and my table next to my recliner is already set. I did not clean over the weekend because I wanted to save it for the last couple of days as it will be a while before I am able to clean again. So, this is how I will spend my last couple of days...cleaning and eating leftover Thanksgiving dinner with the last day being clear liquids and relaxing for the surgery.
11/19/03 It is almost 6 pm and about 13 1/2 hours to surgery. In 12 hours I will have just arrived at the hospital. As far as the surgery, I still feel good, not nervous at all. On the other hand, I have only been allowed clear liquids and am getting a headache and feeling a little weak and shaky. I feel like I should lay down and take a nap, but if I do, I won't sleep tonight. I am ready to get to the hospital and get it over with now, so that I can resume eating although I know it will be a few weeks from now before I am able to eat small bites of blended food. It will be worth it, and I will be so glad that I suffered this little bit after it's all done and my life is normal again.
I have met a couple of people on here that have been so great. One is Melanie Peete who is having her surgery at the same time I am. We have been in contact via phone and she has a really good attitude and is as anxious as I am. She is on her way from Memphis today to Skyline Medical Center for her surgery. I will be getting in touch with her to see how she is feeling now, and plan to keep in touch afterwards.
Another person I met is Rhonda. Her last name is not on her profile, so I will not post it. We have been emailing over the past week, and finally spoke on the phone today. She just did her psych eval last week as I was doing my pre-op registration. The things we have shared have been so helpful. We will be keeping in touch throughout my journey and hers. She is a really great person and I cannot wait to finally get to meet her.
I will do my best to post again as I leave for the hospital to let you know if I have any last minute jitters....If I don't get a chance, I will post again when I officially become a "Loser".
11/20/02 It is now 4:20 am and I am showered and ready to go. My husband is loading the car as we speak. I am really hungry, but know that will go away once I am asleep. Just a few hours away, and I am even more excited. No nervousness or anything. I guess there are no last minute jitters after all.
God Bless all who are about to go through this surgery. I truly find it a blessing. A big thanks to all of those who have supported me.
Now, I will officially see you on the other side. Wish me luck!!!
7:30 am Surgery
I arrived at the hospital at 5:30 and was taken back to be weighed and get a gown on etc. My family was allowed to come back with me until they came to take me to be prepped. I was on cloud nine. I was so ready. It didn't seem like anytime, although I noticed it was around 7 am that they came to take me back. I told my family bye, and was raising my head, smiling and waving as they wheeled me out. They took me back to a holding area where the anesthesiologist was waiting and he told me he was going to numb my hand and put in the IV. Then, he said he was going to give me something to make me sleepy. About this time, I remember seeing Dr. Olsen at my side and asked him something about paperwork from my PCP which now seems kind of vague. I am very groggy in just seconds, but am aware someone is rubbing around my neck, and someone is at my wrist.....I see my husband and daughter now which tells me I am on the other side. They are wheeling me in my room. I am in and out of it, but am somewhat kind of aware of what is going on. I hear alot of banging and commotion and try to keep looking at my husband and daughter. I am concerned what my daughter is thinking hoping she is not worrying. I am unable to speak yet, so I can't ask. I am also thinking...I am so glad I did this. I look at the clock. It is between 12:30 and 1. I go out again.
My husband wakes me up. He says he has to take my daughter back home. I can see flowers and balloons and a bear. The ballon says "Get Well Soon Mom". I am touched, and acknowledge what my husband is saying, but still can't say anything. I am way too tired and groggy.
I hear the nurses. One seems to be concerned I am not fully awake. I open my eyes and see her take the PCA pump and hear her tell the other nurse I am not getting it until I am awake. I try to reach for the pump to show her I am awake, but she pulls anyway. I am still unable to speak. I drift off again.
I wake up and my husband is there. I am hurting and they bring my pump back. I am able to ask for a washcloth to wet the inside of my mouth and for a tube of chapstick for my lips. The nurses take my vitals and I am ready to go for a walk. The nurse seems surprised, but it was one of my goals to walk the first day.
11/21/03 They came this morning to take me for my leak test. The stuff didn't taste as bad as I thought, but the trip over there and back was bad. Every little bump hurts. I should have taken a pillow to hold over my tummy.
My leak test came back good. I get to start my clear fluids and take a shower...did she say "Take a shower?" I get my things together and get in there before anyone changes their mind. The nurse brings me some ice water to drink and boy does that ever feel good going down. I continue to take walks throughout the day. I begin fighting a headache...probably from being on my back in the bed. I am walking more and more to prevent that. They are also giving me childrens Tylenol. Lower right side starts to hurt.
11/22/03 I am feeling pretty good other than these back aches and head aches from being on my back and that lower right side pain. I had tried laying on my side during the night, but the nurse had to help me back over on my back. Dr. Olsen comes in and says he never sends anyone home before the 3rd day, but I am doing so well, he feels I am okay to go. He pulls one of my drain tubes out, because of the lower right pains I was having. I ask him if I should take childrens Tylenol for pain and he says he is sending me home with demoral. I wonder if that is really necessary. I waste no time calling hubby and he is well on his way to get me. I arrive home later and relax.
11/23/03 Today I am not feeling so good. I am having gas pains and tummy rumbling. I can't pass any gas or burp much. I am really feeling discomfort mostly on my left side under my rib cage. I try and try to burp but nothing will come out. I take a walk out by the pond which seems to be of some comfort, but it's not much. I feel like I am going to explode! This continues all day long.
11/24/03 I call Dr. Olsen's office about the problem I am having with gas. He seems to think it is the drain tube causing the discomfort. If it gets any worse, I am to call back. I seem to be doing okay except for this particular discomfort.
11/25/03 I woke up early around 1 am and was
hurting so bad, I was screaming and couldn't stop. I was crying like I
had never cried before. My body was giving out on me and I was praying
to God to take me. Again, I thought it was gas pains and knew I could
not live with gas pains like that. Even the demerol was not stopping the
pain. My husband ran out at 2 am to get me some gas-x but I still
couldn't pass gas or burp. The pains were so sharp and my body was fighting
the pain. About 3:30, I did finally get comfortable enough in the bed
to cope with the pain, but it was still there. I slept a little, but
kept waking up. When I woke up for the day, I was okay, but really in a
lot of discomfort. By the time hubby left for work, I was feeling bad
again. I was alone as the kids took off to the mall. I was by myself
screaming in pain, unable to move, and nobody to hear me. It was really
scary. I couldn't get to a phone. By the time I did, I couldn't remember
any numbers, so I called Lisa and told her I was in so much pain and
needed someone to call me back asap. Dr. Olsen's nurse called back right
away and told me to get to the ER. I told her I was alone and just wanted
advice on what to do for pain. She said she was going to call Dr. Olsen
and have him call me. It only took a few minutes and he was calling me.
I was pretty much calm again when he called and he said it was the
drain tube and to take a warm shower and use a warm heating pad to relax
things and see how that worked. He said if it got any worse to go to the
ER. This was about 2:30. At 3:00, I started hurting again. None of it
seemed to work. Just so happened, Dr. Olsen called to check on me and he
could hear my breathing and asked me if I was SOB. I told him since 1
am. He said get to the ER. So, I call hubby right away since Dr. ordered
me to ER and told him of the situation. As we were getting close to
Franklin, I started feeling really bad and hyperventilating. My face was
completely numb. I couldn't move my nose. I got really scared that I was
going to die, so I told hubby to stop off at WMC. Let me tell you, I
have never acted like I did when I got there. They rushed me back there
and I was so scared I was screaming to get me to CMC where my doctor was
waiting on me. I pleaded with them not to let me die. It was soooo
scary. They got me in a room and started asking me questions. Not yes or no
questions. They wanted me to give them a medical history. I couldn't
tell them anything. I couldn't think straight. I could answer yes or no
questions, but I couldn't recollect all my surgeries and medical
conditions. They asked me which side I hurt on, I told them my right and
pointed to my left. My husband didn't know my complete history either. I got
to the point I was saying words that I don't even like. They did call Dr. Olsen and he gave
them instructions to do a CT scan and give me something for pain. They
started giving me massive doses of morphine, which relaxed me, but
didn't kill the pain. They got me to radiology and did a CT scan which
revealed the tip of my drain tube was poking and pressing on my diaphragm.
The doctor said that is one of the worst pains for a person to have, and
narcotics does not kill that kind of pain. Dr. Olsen said it seldom
happens that someone has a drain tube problem, but I just happened to fall
into that rare category. Anyway, they called Dr. Olsen back and he had
them pull the drain tube out and let me tell you what, I was
ready to do jumping jacks. Now, other than a few bruises and soreness
in my tummy from the bruises and ports, which are small and healing
nicely, I feel almost 100%.
11/26/03 Today I went to see Dr. Olsen. I have lost 10 pounds. We saw Jill the nutritionist for this stage of the diet. The clear liquid stage got old from all the fruit flavors. I managed to survive it. I can say that I don't feel deprived at all of food. I am still feeling really good and so glad I did this. This decision is the best decision I have ever made in my life.
12/1/03 I am 11 days post op today and am getting my poor house back in its regular shape. I also did the decorating and putting up lights outside. I drove today for the first time since I needed more lights. For some reason, I found energy I didn't even know existed. I don't think I would have found it if I did not have this surgery. I also decided to start my blended diet a little early. The shakes are too much for me. It's either do this or starve. No more protein shakes for me.
12/4/03 Today I am 2 weeks post op. It has been great getting to start real food. I am doing really well on them. I am eating fish and chicken foods with steamed veggies. I even made me some stir fry too. Boy, was that ever so good. I have been using my George Foreman grill for grilling chicken, and chicken liver. If you don't have one, I noticed Wal-Mart has smaller versions made by Sunbeam for $16. I picked one up today, so I wouldn't have to use the big one. It cooks the meat thorough and quick. It's healthier, juicier and tastier. No dry meat from the oven. I also bought some Mrs. Dash seasonings to season my foods with.
I still don't know how much weight I have lost so far as I will not weigh myself unless I am at the doctors office. My next appt is 12/19/03.
12/11/03 Today I am 3 weeks post op. I still have a little bruising and a little bit of soreness. I am finally able to sleep on my stomach. I worked out the other day and didn't realize just how much surgery takes out of you. My arms are pretty sore. The abdominal workout seemed to be easier than the upper body workout. I will go again tomorrow.
So far, I have not had any dietary problems. I drink alot of hot herbal tea to get all my liquids in. I am eating alot of chicken, chicken livers, eggs, and tuna. I try to eat low carb vegtables rather than the moderate carb veggies. I learned that eating all protein makes me feel pretty tired, so I am sure to eat my vegtables with them.
I bought some Blue Bunny Sugar Free fudgesicles to curb my chocolate cravings. I handle those pretty good. I find that I chew everything to death. I have been reading where some have been eating things like mashed potatoes, but am afraid of the carbs myself, not that the cravings aren't there.
I am not sure how much weight I have lost, but I am getting into clothes I haven't been able to wear in a while. I guess we will have to see next week. :)
1/2/04 I have not updated in a while. I have been really busy since I last updated. My daughter came down with the flu and I had to try to take care of her while trying not to catch it. Of course, Christmas kept me pretty busy. Then, we left for the Gulf Shores for the New Year. I had lost 19 pounds at my doctors appointment on 12/19/03.
I am finding that the protein and fluids are getting a little harder to get in. I am finding that eating in the morning is harder and try to get in most of my fluids in the am. I ordered some supplements from Bariatric Advantage. I think it will be alot easier than trying to use applesauce for my calcium and iron. I also ordered some protein on days that I find it hard to get that in.
As for my diet, it is still pretty much alot of chicken, tuna, eggs, chicken livers, and frozen veggies. I do buy string cheese now to help out with protein and I take a couple with me when we go places for convenience. I do not miss food at all. It would not bother me if I never ate again. The only reason I eat now is to get in the things that is necessary. I mostly concentrate on protein.
While we were in the Gulf Shores, we went to a Factory Outlet Mall there and my husband bought some chinese food. I ate a few bites of the Cashew Chicken. At 6 weeks out, I handled it well, but felt really full after just a few bites. So far, I have not dumped on anything and am so very careful not to take too big of a bite, and to chew, chew, chew.
Do I still feel like this is the best thing I have ever done?? You betcha!!
1/15/04 Today I am 8 weeks post op. I am feeling great!!! I am finding it much easier now to get in my water and my protein. I am getting to the point of feeling like a protein addict. I am mainly drinking 3 bottles of Fruit 2 0 for my water, I eat 4-5 popsicles and drink 8 ozs of broth each day. I find it much easier to do it that way. On occasion, I make a pot of herbal tea. I don't eat anything unless it has protein in it. I tried the Atkins protein shakes and I really do like them. I will eat string cheese and the flourless peanut butter cookies made with splenda for extra protein. I make sure to put string cheese in my purse when we go places. I have taken a couple of long trips recently, so I did buy up some pumpkin seeds to eat for extra protein too. I use to eat the shells, but now I crack the shell and eat just the seeds. I am also reading up on some yummy snacks that I am going to try soon. The microwave pork rinds with bean dip for added protein and the rice cakes with peanut butter on them. I am finding this journey to have some adventure as I am always learning and trying out new things that I really find exciting. I never knew that eating healthy could be so much fun!!! I go back to see Dr. Olsen on 1/23. I will update again then.
1/23/04 Today I went to see Dr. Olsen. He was quite happy with my progress. I have lost 33 pounds and my BMI is now 32.4. I have lost 37% of my excess body weight. Another 13% and I will be halfway to goal. I am soooo excited!! I hope I can do it by my next appointment 2/20/04. If I can, this means I could be at goal at 6 months out. Even if I don't make it, my BMI should put me in the "overweight" category by my next appointment.
Dr. Olsen really stressed that he wants me in a support group. I don't feel like I need support, but do feel it is important to get into one should anyone else need my support. I told him I didn't think I could make it next month and he wanted to know why. I told him I was going to be gone. He wanted to know where, well, lets just say he smiled and mentioned he was a bit jealous, but did understand when I said "The Bahamas". There is also a new psychological aftercare program being offered by the Evelyn Frye Center and I really do want to get involved in that.
I have decided to try to work on my own little recipe book. I have jotted down some recipes from books that can be converted to high protein/low carb, sugar free, and fat free recipes. I plan to go through alot of recipe books and convert them for my own use, and possibly to share with support groups.
Oh, and yesterday, we got our EOB from our insurance company. My total hospital OOP should be $0.02. This means we should get back $499.98 from the $500 we previously paid. The total cost of my journey, with hospital-$27,871.90, Dr. Olsen-$7,375, Psychiatric evaluation- $250 and the anesthesiologist-$3,037 comes to $38,533.90. So far, we have paid $1,252.67. If we get a refund from the hospital, this will make our total OOP expenses $752.69.
I guess this is enough excitement for one day...LOL I will post again and put up new photos following my next appointment.
1/30/04 Today, I got on OH's message board and found some sad news. I was deeply saddened by what I read, and asked permission to post it here for anyone who may be wondering if they should have the surgery, or are afraid of the surgery because they are afraid of dying. Please read it below:
"My name is Shannon and I'm mike's wife. MIke always talked about how much support he got from this site. Mike passed away on 1/5/04. HE had a heart attack which lead to other complications. Dr. burchard was with him and he did all he could for mike. I wanted to post this because i know he had talked to some of you.
I can't stress the fact that if your undecided about having this surgury please email me. Mike had pt it off too. Then when he finally decided to do it itwas too late. He never got the chance toget that new lease on life. As his wife I can tell you that anything is better then what i'm going though right now. If your undecided about this surgery think of it this way, You have two choices. One is that you can do this and hope for the best and improve your life and the life of your family or two you can wait and pray that while your waiting nothing will happen. Mike took his time and the time he took was borrowed. Please think about it. If mike would of had this surgery when his doctor suggested it our two young children would still have thier daddy and i would still have my soulmate. please just think about this.
shannon downs
[email protected]"
Shannon is reaching out to others, so that they don't have to endure what her husband did. She encourages anyone to email her with any questions.
Thank you Shannon for allowing me to reach out to others through you, and Mike. God Bless You!!
02/20/04 Well, I did it!! I went to Dr. Olsen today and I am halfway to goal. I have lost 43 pounds and have 42 to go! I am elated. He always reminds me the do's and don'ts of my diet. Well, I goofed. I have been drinking Carb Countdown. I am not allowed liquid calories. So, I have to stop doing that. All in all, he said I am doing a wonderful job!!!
Since my last visit with Dr. Olsen, I went to see my PCP and she did some blood work on me. All my bloodwork was good except my liver enzymes were up a bit. So, I had an ultrasound done. It came back normal. For any of you who may find out your liver enzymes are up, I did learn it is not uncommon for anyone to have elevated liver enzymes following surgery. So, don't panic if it happens to you.
2 weeks ago Steve and I went on a cruise to the bahamas. A cruise is the way to vacation. I had a blast!!! I got to live my dream of swimming with the dolphins. It was so awesome!!! Also, we had a Mardi Gras party on the ship. I was able to dance and dance without having to stop and rest. If we had gone on our cruise prior to my surgery, I wouldn't have been able to make it halfway through one song. If you are having doubts about having this surgery, trust me, it has really changed my life!!! I am so so so glad I had this surgery!!!
2/25/03 I hit another milestone today!!! I fit into a size 12 jeans. I didn't think I could fit in to them this soon, but I did and I am so excited.
3/12/03 I have been sick all week. Yesterday I went to the doctor and learned it was bronchitis. He gave me some antibiotics, so I should be mending soon. Some great news though, when I weighed in, I had lost 50, yes, 50 pounds!!! I am now just overweight...Yayyy!!!! My appetite hadn't been all that good and it was all I could do to get in what is required. I am pleased to say that I have my appetite back.
I also found a couple of important things today. One was posted on the OH message board, the other was sent to my email. Also, here is a link from the message board with pictures of the RNY procedure.
http://www.laparoscopy.com/obesity/roux.html
4/20/04 Wow, it has been a while since I updated. I am down 57 pounds now and just updated my photos on my photo page today. I got my hair cut 10 days ago and had some more highlights added. I have been noticing a little bit of hair coming out, but nothing like I expected.
I feel wonderful. We have been doing alot of work outside and I have alot of energy and can go all day and still want to do more if we could have more time in a day than God has given us.
My appetite is starting to increase now. I don't have the problems eating like I use to. I am introducing a little more in my diet. Still not brave enough to try the things I shouldn't. I do know that I can tolerate small amounts of sugar, which I don't mind. After all it is in small amounts. I tried 1/2 brownie when visiting my dad's a week ago and did okay. I learned that more than that makes me feel pretty bad...so I am scared to push it. At least I can enjoy a bite or two, and then want to push the rest away.
I do notice the weight loss is a little bit slower now. I think I am starting to taper off, but am very happy with the progress I have already made. I am only considered overweight now, and have 28 pounds to goal. I am sure I will make it, but by no means will I stress about it. I am so happy to be where I am now.
05/04/04 I am pretty excited today. I weighed in at 149 today. This past Friday, April 30th, my daughter and I went to Wal-Mart. I decided to try on some size 10's since my 12's were getting pretty baggy. They fit!!!! Then, my daughter found some size 8's and had me try them on. I didn't think it would actually work, but it did!!! They were just a little snug, but they went on without my having to "suck it in"!!! Talk about exciting. Another thing, I had taken my blood pressure that morning and it was 115/78. Today, I went to the doctor for a sinus infection and my b/p was 116/82. So, without meds, my b/p is holding up good. How exciting this journey has been!!!
5/19/04 Well, today my day started out with a little trip to Dr. Olsen's office. I have lost 63 pounds and lost 75% of my excess weight. My blood pressure was 105/78. (I can remember when keeping my diastolic reading under 105 was a challenge!) Dr. Olsen seemed very pleased, and I told him it did not matter to me if I lost another pound (although my goal weight is 22 pounds away), because I was very satisfied with how I feel now. I felt that I had accomplished what I meant to accomplish. He said that at 6 months I am considered a success with this surgery. This made me feel proud and thankful for him, and the opportunity to have this surgery. Dr. Olsen also said I could started getting a bit more liberal with my food choices. I let him know I was not comfortable with that at this time. He expressed a concern that I could continue to loose after I reached my goal weight and could end up loosing too much. I let him know that I would be able to notice if I was losing too much and would be just as conscientious about keeping the weight on as I am with taking it off. With that, he seemed very pleased.
6/20/04 I am 7 months post op and have lost 70 pounds. I am wearing a size 7, and can fit into a size 6, but do not own any yet. I bought up some 7's so I am going to wear them for a while. I can wear a size 4/6 top. I don't ever remember wearing that size before. I have 15 more pounds to go till goal, and 4 more pounds to be out of the overweight status. I am pretty happy now. I am healthy, I have alot of energy and really enjoy life. There is so much I want to do that I didn't before. Finally, I am living and enjoying every minute of it!!!
7/20/04 I am now 8 months post op and down 75 pounds. My husband and I just returned from a trip from the Mall of America in Minnesota. It was a great trip. We had many unexpected surprises. The people of Minnesota are so friendly. We loved it!!!
I didn't take my swimsuit, so I had to buy one while we were at the MOA. I found a bikini on clearance at Old Navy. I never EVER thought I would ever wear a bikini. Feel free to email me with your AMOS name and I will be happy to send them to you.
8/20/04 Today is a big day for me. I am now 9 months post op and it was 1 year ago today that I made my big decision to have the surgery and took my first step, now I am near the end. What a difference a year makes! I had my appointment with Dr. Olsen today. I am 3 pounds from my goal weight. Dr. Olsen is very pleased and says that I am at an ideal weight now. He said losing a few more pounds is okay, but not to lose too much. He sent me to see the nutritionist about increasing my diet in order to maintain my weight. She recommends that I try adding more carbs and to keep my caloric intake at 800-1000 calories a day. I think it was obvious to her that I wasn't ready to do that, so she is going to call in a month to see how I am doing. I hope I can. I just am so afraid of starting up some old habits. I am pretty much set in this one. As for plastic surgery, I am not sure if I will do it or not. My skin seems to be adjusting pretty well. I just don't have as much breast tissue as I use to, although I do enjoy the "smaller" size C. I had once considered a breast reduction. I think I will wait now until I am one year out to update again since I am nearly at the end of this journey.
11/26/04 I am officially 1 year out since 11/20. I woke up that day with a few things going on. A blood vessel had burst in my eye. I had an earache that was giving me a headache and making my teeth hurt. Didn't feel like updating, so I am doing it a few days late.
I went to see Dr. Olsen the 24th. I am down to 122 lbs and 3 lbs below goal, and in a size 2. I am doing pretty good at maintaining my weight now, and feel really normal. I still do not take any meds. My blood pressure is maintaining exceptionallly well. I eat good, and stick to the foods that are good for me. I have recently learned while eating at a chinese buffet that I get my moneys worth if I eat the crab legs. If I eat nothing else, I have more room for crab legs and since it's a treat, I don't feel like I am wasting my money.
I have not experienced alot of dumping syndrome. When I do, it comes on suddenly. I feel nauseous, trembly, weak, and my heart beats fast. I usually feel like I need to lay down, and it usually passes after about 20-30 minutes. I am sticking to my surgeons guidelines, but do stray once in a while. I am fortunate that the things I have tried, do have an effect on me enough to satisfy my craving, and no longer desire the food.
I still have people asking me if I would do it over, and I say "Yes". It is the best thing I have ever done. I don't anticipate many changes over the next few months. I will update again around my 15 month mark which will be 2/20/05.
06/09/05 Wow, has it been like forever since I updated!! I was even suppose to update in Februrary. Well, I ended up having emergency surgery which sorta had me down for a few months. I was busy recovering, then after I recoverd I got busy with "Life". I am updating now since I had my 18 month check up today.
The surgery I had was for a large bowel obstruction, (NOT related to gastric bypass). I am very lucky to be here. My colon was way beyond the limit of rupturing. I don't understand why it didn't. This happened over the Christmas holidays...so, guess how I spent my holiday? In the hospital. I was unable to eat for 2 weeks and had lost down to 112 pounds. I couldn't believe it when I had to wear childrens clothes! I weighed in at 119 today. So, I was able to regain 7 pounds back. I am happy with that. I would like to have gained more, but am happy that I did gain the 7 pounds. I had really worried about my weight loss and how I was ever going to gain it back. I did snack a little, and added protein smoothies to my diet. I have decided I will stop since I am 18 months out and will let the rest of the pounds "creep" back on me as I hear they do.
I am very pleased with the outcome of my surgery and all the teams of medical professionals who have helped me to achieve all my goals, saved my life, given me advice...etc. I am very happy with my new lifestyle. It is amazing how I can do so many things and never tire. I am still so very glad I had this surgery.
3/14/06 It has been a very long time since my last update. I really haven't felt like anything significant has happened to update. Now, there has been a little change. I had a tummy tuck on 3/3. I am now 11 days post op. I am feeling a little bit better. I had agonized over whether or not to do this. It took 2 consults to decide exactly what I wanted done and I chose not to have the muscle repair done. My PS said my muscle was not stretched much at all, plus after my surgery in December 04, I couldn't do anything to my muscle. I also decided I didn't want implants that may require additional surgeries in the future, nor did I want a breast lift that would require relocating my nipple. I would rather keep the natural feeling in my breasts and not take any chances with those.
I came to the conclusion that the tummy tuck was necessary to remove the scar from my latest surgery as it was just below my belly button extending over to my left side. This made wearing pants uncomfortable. I knew it would be better to have a lower scar that wouldn't be affected by clothing than the one I was already dealing with. Once I had the surgery, I began to wonder if it was all worth it. I told the surgeon it would be okay to do an extended tummy tuck, if necessary. Well, it was and my insicion goes right over my hipbones. The draintubes were very painful being right over the hipbones and under the incision. I thought I had traded one evil for 2 evils. This resulted in several meltdowns and regret. I also had not expected the numbness, and the misplaced sensations. The later two are much easier to deal with.
Since getting out my drain tubes, I am feeling better each day. I have almost no pain, but only when a nerve is trying to heal or rewire itself. In the beginning I had alot of itching, but that has stopped. As long as I have on a binder I feel great!
My total surgery cost was $5579, which was not even submitted to insurance, and the doctor removed 1.81 pounds of excess skin. I am happy so far with the result and look forward to seeing the end result. In any case, I think now that I will feel comfortable in pants again.
I have photos of my tummy tuck and will be happy to email them to anyone who is interested in looking at them and requests them.
7/30/06 I am doing really well. I am almost 5 months post op from my tummy tuck, and I feel great! my weight is maintaining at 122 well. The scales haven't moved in months! I eat like a 'normal' person. I still discipline myself, but do treat myself once in a while. I mainly eat fish, tuna, chicken, seafood, yogurt, cheese, fruit's and vegtables. However, I do eat other things, including those things that aren't the greatest for ya, but they aren't going to kill you either.
At 2 1/2 years post op, I am still so happy I had my WLS. I have never had one regret!
9/12/06 Just a quick update. I ended up going into the hospital last week and had surgery again on Tuesday. Turns out, my colon twisted again and I had to have a colon resection. I am now down to 111 lbs as a result of this event. This is not as a result of my RNY. However, I am sick of surgeries, pain, etc. I have been taking demerol elixir for a week now and am so sick of it that I am learning to live with pain.
Having this surgery is sort of like after I returned home with my RNY. I cannot seem to get all my water, protein, etc in. I struggled for over 2 hours to get in an EAS AdvantEdge shake in. At this rate, I may lose more before I begin to gain again...We'll see.
9/20/06 I am 2 weeks out from my colon resection. I started feeling almost normal over the weekend. Getting over this surgery was as easy as my RNY. I can do most anything now as long as it's not too strenuous. I am eating normal once again. That gradually happened late last week and over the weekend.
Believe it or not, I am so glad I had this colon resection. I have had problems with gas pains and constipation for years and never realized until now that what I was going through was not normal. It feels wonderful to not have terrible pains after eating and not be able to 'go' to the bathroom. It also feels wonderful not to have ill feelings without explanation. Although I had no choice in the matter, I believe that next to having the RNY, the colon resection was one of the best things I have ever done.
11/19/06 I had my 3 year appointment on Friday as well as my follow up from my colon resection. I weighed in at 117. I am feeling really good as well as maintaining my weight. I try to maintain a healthy diet of protein and fruits and vegetables. I have days when I can eat more than others, however eating more means eating normal. At 3 years out I am still so happpy that I had this surgery.
Height 5'2"
11/20/03 210 lbs BMI 38.5
11/26/03 200 lbs -10
12/19/03 191 lbs -19
01/23/04 177 lbs -33
02/20/04 167 lbs -43
03/11/04 160 lbs -50
04/20/04 153 lbs -57
05/04/04 149 lbs -61
05/20/04 147 lbs -63
06/20/04 140 lbs -70
07/20/04 135 lbs -75
08/20/04 128 lbs -82
08/24/04 126 lbs -84
09/20/04 125 lbs -85
10/06/04 123 lbs -87
11/24/04 122 lbs -88
01/04/05 112 lbs -98
06/09/05 119 lbs -91
07/31/06 122 lbs -88
09/01/06 118 lbs -92
11/17/06 117 lbs -93
