Danielle Hodgins

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1/19/05 - Happy New Year to all of my wonderful OH family!  Wow, I'm 17
months old today.  I feel like I'm starting to become an old timer! 
Not much new to report.  Lost 2 lbs, weighing in at 123. At first the
scale said 122, but I got on and off a few times, and it read 123 a couple
of times too, so I'm going with that.  I don't care to lose anymore.  
Underweight would be 108, and I don't want to get any closer to that. 
I am very, very happy with where I am.  I've got to get back to the gym
to build up some more muscle.  I feel like such a weakling lately! 
I've been pumping my vitamins, water and protein to get ready for surgery
in 48 days.  Gotta be strong and healthy, this one is going to be
tough!  Have a great day all!
*17 Months P.O. Weight 123,Loss of 155 lbs* size> size>
~~~~~
2/23/05 - Just a quick update.  I had another appt with my PS - HREF="http://www.rochesterplasticsurgery.com/index.html"> Dr. Pennino
- since it had been awhile since I've been there.  My surgery date has
been moved up to 3/7/05, that's 11 days away.  YIKES!  Preop testing
3/2/05.  PS said to me 'You've got a great body under there'  lol... said
I will be very happy with the results, and that I've got a great shape
to work with.  We'll see! 
~~~~~
3/11/05 - Hi Ya'll!  I'm 4 days post op - from my full abdominoplasty. 
My Plastic Surgeon - HREF="http://www.rochesterplasticsurgery.com/index.html"> Dr. Pennino
did an awesome job and I'm feeling great!  Surgery lasted about 2 & 1/2
hours.  I was up and walking the halls shortly after getting back to my
room.  I came out feeling fine, and it really has been a breeze.  I had
prepared myself for the worst after reading/hearing some people's
stories, but for me, it was not bad at all.  I have a full anchor incision -
from hip to hip and breast bone down.  I have 2 drains, and they're
just an annoyance, having to drain them and keep them tucked in.  My
muscles are sore, and as the incisions heal, they feel tight and pull and I
can't stand up straight, I'm a bit tired - BUT all in all for just
having this major surgery, it's not bad at all.  No major pain, just
discomfort really.  I go back Monday for my 1 week follow up.  I've already
dropped 2 pounds, and I still have some swelling. 
http://www.rochesterplasticsurgery.com/index.html"> Dr.
Pennino said it was all empty skin,  so it probably didn't weigh much,
but I forgot to ask him for the number.  I'll have to ask when I go
back.  I'm sure that when the swelling goes down, I'll lose a couple more
pounds, and I don't want to lose an ounce more after that.  I feel so
wonderful, I have a nice shape now.  My PS said ' you can bounce a
quarter off that baby!' and that's the truth!  I have been so blessed over
these last 18 months, I can't even begin to thank the Lord enough, and my
doctors, and my family and all of my OH friends.  It has just been an
amazing journey.  Here are a few pics so you can see just how TALENTED
http://www.rochesterplasticsurgery.com/index.html"> Dr. Pennino
is!!!
Plastic Surgery 3/2005 - Click To Enlarge
href="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/daniellehny/Plastics/B4and4daysAfterSide.jpg"
target="_blank">
src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/daniellehny/Plastics/th_B4and4daysAfterSide.jpg"> 
href="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/daniellehny/Plastics/B4and4daysAfter.jpg"
target="_blank">
src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/daniellehny/Plastics/th_B4and4daysAfter.jpg"> 
~~~~
3/24/05 - Hi ya'll!  Well, I'm 17 days post op from my abdominoplasty. 
Still feeling pretty good.  I'm still so impressed with the amazing job
http://www.rochesterplasticsurgery.com/index.html"> Dr.
Pennino did.  I got one of the drains pulled at 15 days out, and I still
have one that is draining about 60 cc's a day.  The other one had
pretty much stopped draining and was very sore.  My right side is still
pretty swollen (the side where the drain is now gone) HREF="http://www.rochesterplasticsurgery.com/index.html"> Dr. Pennino
tried to aspirate it twice, but nothing came out.  He says it must be a
pretty localized pocket of fluid.  If it doesn't go down shortly, he'll
do an ultrasound to locate it and aspirate again.  Other than the
swelling, I still feel pretty good.  My back aches alot from not standing up
straight...lol.  But still no incision problems or pain.  I weighed
this morning - and was a little frightened to see 116 on the scale.  I
checked 3 times, and that's where it stayed, and I'm still swollen.  But,
I haven't had much of an appetite, and haven't been able to work out so
maybe I've lost some muscle mass?  Can't wait til I can get back to
totally normal.  I went back to work at 14 days out, and its been going
fine.  I'll keep ya'll updated!
*19 Months P.O. Weight 116,Loss of 162 lbs* size> size>
~~~~~
3/29/05 - Whew!  Finally got to say Goodbye to that last drain!  22
days is a long time to have a foreign object hanging out of your body, ya
know?  Anyway, now that that is gone - I'm feeling better already! 
I've still had no problems at all, and I am just overyjoyed and so
thankful for the awesome job Dr. Pennino did on me!  If you are considering
plastic surgery, you could be in no better hands than the hands of HREF="http://www.rochesterplasticsurgery.com/index.html"> Dr. Pennino
! Click on the link below to check out his website...and tell him
Danielle sent ya!

Me and a man I love...My very talented, Highly skilled, Plastic Surgeon
- Dr. Pennino! of HREF="http://www.rochesterplasticsurgery.com/index.html"> The  Plastic
Surgery Group of Rochester
Click on the photo to enlarge.
href="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/daniellehny/Plastics/100_0238.jpg"
target="_blank">
src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/daniellehny/Plastics/th_100_0238.jpg">
HREF="http://www.obesityhelp.com/morbidobesity/proProfile.php?N=1259"> My
Full Review of Dr. Pennino

~~~~~
12/5/05 - EEEEEEK!  I can't believe it has been so long since I've
updated!  I'm still here, super-duper busy, but loving life!  Gosh, I'm 2
years and 4 months out - is that amazing or what!  I'm still
maintaining.  I am careful about what I eat because I know if I overdue it on
carbs or bad choices, the scale ain't afraid to tell me about it!  So, I
still watch what I eat, and make healthy choices, and exercise to
maintain.  I still cannot tolerate sugar, some pastas and breads and that's
all fine with me, I don't miss it.  I've had no problems at all and I
feel great.  Much love to you all and Happy Holidays!!!

1/6/04 - Well, back to work after lots of vacation time. Trying to get
back on a schedule and get this weight loss in gear!  10 more lbs til I
can join the century club!
*20 weeks P.O. (140 days), Weight 185, BMI 31.87, Loss of 90 lbs*
~~~~~
1/13/04 -
*21 weeks P.O. (147 days), Weight 182, BMI 31.35, Loss of 93 lbs*
~~~~~
1/19/04 - Happy 5 Month Anniversary to Me!  Officially kissed 96 pounds
goodbye forever.  Was bummed b/c I didn't hit my 5 month goal of 100
lbs, but I suppose I shouldn't fret over 4 lbs when I've lost 96.  I'm
still very regimented about getting my vitamins, protein, water and
exercise in. 
Vitamins - Multi vitamin, Trinsicon (B-12, Vitamin C & Iron) Biotin,
Zinc & Folic Acid (I take them all 2 x's a day)
Water - 64 oz at least
Protein - @ 60 grams
Exercise - @ 1 hour/day 4x's per week
I drink a protein shake every morning for breakfast.  The other meals I
always eat my protein first.  Then if I have room I'll have some
veggies, fruit or carbs.  I still do keep som carbs in my diet, but not many. 
I feel the best I have felt in many, many years.  I haven't been this
size since I was 16 yrs. old.  Plus, b/c of exercising, I have so much
more energy and stamina.  Sometimes I feel like a could run a marathon.
I'm wearing size 11/12 jeans, med/lg tops. 
I just can't thank the Lord enough for this 2nd chance!  And thanks to
Dr. O'Malley for his skill and willingness to perform this surgery. 
(BTW, he was on Oprah last week performing a surgery!)  Anyway, life is
grand, and continues to get better every day.  In a few short months,
I'll be at goal.  It still amazes me. God Bless.
*5 months P.O. (153 days), Weight 179, BMI 30.84, Loss of 96 lbs*
~~~~~
2/3/04 - Well, here is another Tuesday.  But not just any Tuesday, not
like the rest of the Tuesdays when I weigh in.  This Tuesday, I did it. 
This Tuesday, I reached major milestones.  I only weigh on Tuesdays, so
I'm not sure when it happened, but it did.  I crossed the century mark.
I've lost 101 lbs since surgery, 104 lbs from my highest known weight. 
My BMI dropped to 29.9 - only 'Overweight'. I've lost nearly 70% of my
excess weight, and have only 44lbs to go til I hit goal. I've gone from
sizes in the high 20's to an 11/12. I've lost over 107 inches!  I am in
awe.  In just over 5 months.  24 short weeks.  168 days.  No time at
all considering the 29 years I spent battling this weight.  I am winning. 
Each day, I win another battle.  Every day is a new struggle, yet a new
start.  With each day, each battle, I get stronger, I get closer to
victory.  I will win this war.  If God be for me, who can be against me?! 
Victory is in sight!  All GLORY TO GOD!
*24 weeks P.O. (168 days), Weight 174, BMI 29.97, Loss
of 101 lbs*
~~~~~
2/10/04 - Wow, I just read back through my profile.  It was over a year
ago that I started this journey, and 25 weeks now since I've had
surgey.  So much in me has changed.  I can do so many things with ease.  I
feel wonderful.  The other day I wore an old pair of size 9/10 jeans that
I had in high school.  They were tight and way out of style (my son was
mortified that I would wear them) but we were just going to help paint
at the church and I didn't want to get paint on any of my good jeans. 
Anyway, they fit!  9/10 Jeans that I have not worn since 11th grade! 
And I'm wearing the clothes my 12 yr old son had packed away because he
had outgrown them.  Amazing. 
*25 weeks P.O. (175 days), Weight 172.5, BMI 29.72, Loss of 102.5 lbs*
~~~~~
2/17/04 -
*26 weeks P.O. (182 days), Weight 168.5, BMI 28.77, Loss of 106.5 lbs*
~~~~~
2/19/04 - Happy 6 Month Re-Birthday to Me!!!!  38 lbs away from my
goal. 
*6 months P.O. (186 days), Weight 167.0, BMI 29.03, Loss of 108 lbs*
~~~~~
3/23/04 - Just passed my 7 month anniversary.  Unfortunately I was on a
plateau for nearly the entire month, only budging 5 lbs at the end of
the month.  But I've increased my water and protein, and my weight loss
has kicked in again, dropped 3 lbs already this week.  I am 30 lbs away
from my goal of 129.
*32 weeks P.O. (217 days), Weight 159.0, BMI 27.39, Loss of 116 lbs*
~~~~~
4/19/04 - Wow - 8 months gone already?!?! So are 126.5 lbs from my
heighest weight of 278.  Weighed in at 151.5 this morning.  Comfortably
wearing size 8 & 10 jeans and dresses.  Wear small tops for the most part. 
I still think I want to get to 130, which means another 21.5 lbs.  But
I am so happy with myself right now, and so so thankful for this
surgery.
*8 months P.O. (244 days), Weight 151.5, BMI 26.10, Loss of 123.5 lbs*
~~~~~
5/4/04 - Hey there.  Thought I'd check in to let ya'll know that I
kissed the 150's goodbye at my weekly weigh-in this morning, weighing in at
149.  That means only 20 lbs to go to my goal weight of 129.  It really
is within reach now.  My new pics are up, can you notice the slight
difference that losing nearly 130 lbs makes? I'm feeling great, and
enjoying life.  No, the body hasn't completly bounced back the way I'd like
it too, but I don't think I look too bad.  I'm healthy.  That's what
it's all about. 
*37 weeks P.O. (259 days), Weight 149, BMI 25.67, Loss of 126 lbs (-129 from highest weight)*
~~~~~
5/19/04 - Good Morning to my OH family!  It's time for my check in
since its my 9 month anniversary.  Was a slow month for weight loss, down
5.5 lbs, weighing 146 lbs.  I'm 1 lb away from having a normal BMI, and
no longer being overweight.  Wow.  In just 9 short months.  Going from
being 133 lbs overwieght, to just 1 lb overweight.  Yikes!  It's a
miracle!  6 lbs to go to my surgeons goal, and 17 lbs to go to my goal of
129.  Well, that's my goal for now, but if I'm still not happy, I'll
keep working on it.  I've been JOGGING!  Me, jogging.  And it feels so
good.  I've been having some issues with what seems to be like 'Drop
Foot', where my foot kind of drags, so I get nervous on the treadmill about
tripping.  I do ok jogging outside.  I've got to go see my pcp and hive
him check it out. 
For those of you who've asked or are wondering, here's a typical days
menu for me.  This was yesterday's actual menu, and today will probably
be just about the same.  I keep track of everything on fitday.com.

I start the day with: *7:00 am*
20 oz of water and my vitamins
Then 2 cups of coffee (16 oz. total)

Breakfast: *8:30 am*
Total Protein Cereal (1/2 cup)
(I also like Atkins Morning Start,
or I sometimes throw a few almonds in with my Total, which adds more
protein)
Hood Carb Countdown Milk (1/2 cup)

Snack: *10:00 am*
Plain Almonds

Lunch: *12:00 pm*
3 oz Tuna
with Atkins Crunchers 

Snack: *3:00 pm*
Whey Fruity Protein Drink     

Dinner: *5:30 pm*
3 oz Boneless Chicken breast
with Parm/Alfredo sauce
Brocolli (a few bites)

Snack: *7:00 pm*
Carb Control Vanilla Yogurt
With 3 sliced Strawberries

Totals:
Calories: 807 
Fat: 30
Carbs: 25
Protein: 108

I do not drink with meals.  I start drinking my water 30-45 mins after
I eat, and I make sure that I get in at least 64 oz. each day but I
usually get more like 80oz in.  Especially since I discovered Fruit20
flavored water (with splenda).  I've added a few 16 oz bottles of that a
day to my regular water regimen. 

Let me point out that I am very regimented during the week while I am
at work and on a schedule.  The weekends, I don't do quite as well with
getting in my protein and water, but I make every effort to make good
food choices.  We just do alot of running around and it makes it tough. 
But I keep a bottle of water with me and do what I can. Somedays I blow
it when I really want a chicken finger and a few fries.  But the beauty
of it is, every day is a new start.  I get up, dust off, and start
over.
*9 months P.O. (274 days), Weight 146, BMI 25.15, Loss of 132 lbs*
~~~~~
5/20/04 - This is my 9 month+ 1 day check in...lol...to announce that I
am NORMAL!  Weighed in at 145, which is within my *ideal* weight range,
and gives me a normal BMI.  I'm still not where I want to be, but I am
no longer 'overweight' and I'm at a healthy weight for me and that is
just so darn exciting! Yay!
*9 months + 1 day P.O. (275 days), Weight 145, BMI
24.9, Loss of 133 lbs*
~~~~~
6/29/04 - Yikes, looks like I've been slacking!  I missed my 10 month
check in.  Well people, that's what happens.  After losing all of this
weight, I am rarely on the computer.  I am too busy enjoying life!  I've
discovered and LOVE rollerblading!  I bike ride, I walk, I jog, I play
tennis, played volleyball for hours at a grad party last week.  We were
playing 4 on 4 so we had a lot of ground to cover, and I could have
played all night!  My husband and I have weekly tennis dates with another
couple.  I drag my boys out rollerblading with me all around town.  I
take the whole family on miles of bike riding.  I just can't get over
it.  I went to my PCP for a follow up visit, and he didn't know it was
me.  Before he looked at my file he shook my hand and said "Have I seen
you before?"  I laughed, and told him who I was and he stepped back and
said wow, you are much much smaller and that apparently I have been
successful with Gastric Bypass.  He has since recommended it to many of
his patients.  He did tons and tons of blood work, and it all came back
well within normal range.  My blood pressure was 92/58!!  Holy smokes! 
THIS IS MY LIFE?!?!  I eat healthy and I love it!  I can't imagine it
any other way.  I weighed in at 141 on the Doctors scale - and that was
in the middle of the day, fully dressed.  I'm a couple lbs lighter by
my own scale first thing in the morning.  Dr. did refer me to a
neurologist for the 'drop foot' symptoms I've been having, but he does not
think its related to the weight loss. 

So folks, sorry for the long post, but this is my life.  How it has
changed in just 10 short months.  And my oh my, I have so much more life
to look forward to.  Thank you Lord.
~~~~~
7/19/04 - Holy Smokes, I'm celebrating 2 anniversaries today.  11
months post op from WLS, and 13 years of wedded bliss with my wonderful
husband.  I'm thankful to him for standing by me and supporting me all
these years and I thank the Lord for keeping us strong.  Getting married at
16 years old surely could have been disasterous, but HE protected us. 
As far as the weight loss goes, I'm still plugging along.  Working out
even harder, and still making good food choices, eating healthy, &
taking my vitamins. I lost another 6 lbs this month, surpassing my surgeons
goal of 140, and have only 6 lbs to get to my original goal of 130. 
Though I think I may want to lose a few more. I'll know when I get there, and I'm not 'there' yet.  But I'm healthy, my BMI is well within the
normal range, I feel good and have much to be thankful for today.   
*11 months P.O. (335 days), Weight 136, BMI 23.43, Loss of 142 lbs*
~~~~~
8/19/04 - I was on my way into work this morning when I got a text
message on my phone from my husband that said 'Happy Anniversary, I Love
You'.  I was like what is he talking about, our anniversary was July
19th, not August 19th!  Then it dawned on me, a year ago today was not my
wedding anniversary, but it was a day that changed my life.  I underwent
LAP RNY that day.

And now, a year later, I've lost more than half of myself, 145 lbs to
be exact, and about the same in inches.  Starting out at 5'4" and
278lbs, I now weigh 133 lbs. I've surpassed my surgeons goal of 140, but I'd
still like to lose about 5 lbs. However, I am healthy.  I went from
size 26/28's to 6/8's and smalls.  My BMI was 47.89, and is now 22.9.  I
am so active, I ride bike, walk, jog, rollerblade, play tennis, I was
doing cartwheels all over the football field last night.

Is this an easy road?  Not always.  I eat healthy, for the most part. 
It's still all about choices though.  Even though my intake is
restricted, its still up to me to choose grilled chicken breast and vegi's
instead of a couple of chicken fingers and fries.  I have never tried any
significants amount of sugar, but I have dumped on other things - like
chili that I didn't know was made with sugar, even sugar free ice cream
gets me sick sometimes. I stay away from bread, b/c it usually does not
sit well.  It's not fun puking violently and not getting much of it up
anyway - and then having to lay down for an hour until it passes. I get
strange 'gas' pains from time to time, and my stomach is pretty noisy
on a regular basis - I've had to apologize in many work meetings for my
gurgling. My skin hasn't bounced back the way I dreamed it would.  I'm
left with wrinkly arms and thighs, and a flabby belly.  I need to work
on toning more regularly.  I take my vitamins, get my water and protein
in on a daily basis.  All of this takes commitment, work - choice. 
Every day, day in and day out, I have to work at it.

But is it worth it?   A resounding YES.  For me, it is worth it. For
me, losing over half of me - has brought out the best in me.  I am  not
afraid to get out and enjoy life.  I can ride any rides at the amusement
park, I can do cartwheels, I can get up in front of people without
being so self concious, I can keep up - and even tire out my kids. 
Intimate time with my husband has been just amazing.  I am in awe.

So have I changed? Yeah.  Is it easy? No.  But is it worth it?  You
bet'cha.  It's a journey that won't end until my life on earth ends.  I've
fought for every pound I've lost, and I'll continue to fight every day
to keep them off.  But for me, this is the path I've chosen, and I plan
to stay on it.  I plan to succeed.

Thanks to my AMOS family for sharing in this awesome journey with me
and encouraging me along the way.  Thanks to my boys and my husband who
have been so wonderfully supportive; I could never have done it without
them.  And thank you Lord, though I've failed you miserably so many
times, you prove yourself faithful to me over and over.  You've protected
and strengthened me, and my life is in Your hands. 

May all of you who are traveling this road, keep pressing on until you
reach your every goal.
*1 YEAR P.O. (365 days), Weight 133, BMI 22.9, Loss of 145 lbs*

~~~~~
10/19/04 - Yikes, I've been slacking with keeping up with my profile. 
I'm on the board alot, and respond to lots of emails, but forget to pop
over here and make an update.  Things are going great, still losing
here and there, though my doctor does not want me to lose anymore.  I
continue to eat and live healthy and love it.  I have lost 150lbs, and that
is still so amazing to me.  My youngest son weighs @ 75, and I can
barely lift him. I can't beleive I was carrying around 2 of him on my body! 
I am wearing size 2 Gap jeans today.  Sizes range from 2 - 8, and
smalls.   Labs have been great, though I am tired sometimes.  It may just be
that we are always on the go.  I still focus on protein, but don't do
shakes right now.  I just can't stomach them.  It may just be a phase,
as I tend to get sick of things.  But I can usually get enough protein
if I choose my foods wisely.  My surgeon referred me to a PS as he does
most of his patients at the 1 year follow up.  I'm still not sure if
its something I will do, but I figured I'd check into it.  But I'm
healthy, and life is good. 
*14 Months P.O. (413 days), Weight 128, BMI 21.3, Loss
of 150 lbs*
~~~~~
11/19/04 - Wow, almost Thanksgiving already!  And that means Christmas
is almost here again.  Gosh, where does the time go?  I'm doing
wonderful.  Working out hard in my cardio kick/step/weight training class. 
I've lost another lb, and I don't want to lose any more but I know that I
am building muscle too.  My face looks too sunk in and sometimes I feel
like I look like a skeleton with my clothes off, just with some skin
hanging over my bones so I want to tone up and build some muscle.  It's
an hour work out and I absolutely love it.
Hope everyone is doing great.  Happy Thanksgiving!  Only 35 more
SHOPPING DAYS LEFT!  Eeek!
*15 Months P.O. Weight 127, BMI 21., Loss of 151
lbs*
~~~~~
12/13/04 - Hi there.  Look at me, updating my profile before the 19th! 
Well, the reason is, I got a call from my insurance company Friday,
telling me I was approved for an abdominoplasty!  My surgery date is March
9th.  I am still in shock, I think.  The insurance co. had requested
info from my primary.  They faxed the notes of my rashes and
prescriptions over the last year in on Wednesday, and it was approved the next day. 
I've been unsure if I really wanted to do another surgery or not.  But
I guess since things have been going this way, I'm going to go with it
unless something comes up.  My surgeon is HREF="http://www.rochesterplasticsurgery.com/index.html"> Dr. Pennino of
The Plastic Surgery Group of Rochester.  I am very confident in his
abilities, he has a wonderful personality and the office staff is top
notch.  Laura, Kristen, Rachel and the rest of his team are professional
yet caring, and very knowledgable in all they do. 

My weight fluctuates between 125 and 127, or anywhere around there. 
Things are going well.  Christmas is almost here, and I'm no where near
ready!  But I'm off work next week and the week after, so that's cool. 

I sure do hope you all have a wonderful Holiday.  Remember the Reason
for the Season.  We have so much to be thankful for.

1/15/03 - I'm so glad I found this site!  I'm 28 years old, I've been married for 11 years to my very supportive and wonderful husband, and have 2 wonderful sons, ages 11 & 6.  I've been overweight since I was a kid.  My mother sent me to the diet center when I was 10 years old.  I was able to lose some weight, & basically starved myself through highschool to keep from gaining.  But since 16, I've been fighting a losing battle, and I refuse to live the rest of my life this way. I have been researching WLS for a while now, and I know this is the only answer for me.  My PCP agreed and I got the ok to call the surgeon today - and he is booking appointments for JULY! I will be having Lap RNY.  I made all of the following appointments: 6/26/03 - group session, 7/7 -individual appt, 7/8 - nutritionist, 8/5 - psych eval. It is going to be a long wait - but one that will be worth it.
~~~~~
2/4/03 - 5 months til my Individual Appointment now.  I don't know if I
can wait that long!  I have never felt so physically awful in my life. 
I am always tired, my back and joints ache terribly (I have gout also). 
I just feel so huge and bloated. I pray these next 152 days go fast -
and that I get a quick surgery date.  Am I asking too much?
~~~~~
3/14/03 - When is my turn going to get here?  I'm ready!  Well, I know
that it is in the Lord's hands.  It will all work out, whenever that may be.
~~~~~
4/26/03 - Still waiting.  Getting really impatient.  My sister had her
group consultation, and has her individual appt. w/Dr. Caruana of
Buffalo on May 6th.  I 'm really excited for her and it gives me something to look forward to!  A few more months for me before the ball really gets rolling. 
~~~~~
5/26/03 - Another month of waiting over.  My group consultation is one
month from today!  Also, my sister got her date, it's also June 26th! 
~~~~~
5/30/03 - Good news!  Tammy from Dr. Nickels office called and said
that he is going to be out of the office 8/5 when I am scheduled for my
psych appt...so she is sending me to someone else on 7/8! So, I'll have my individual appt w/ Dr. O'malley on 7/7 and both my nutritionist and psych appts done on 7/8 and I'll be ready to go - as soon as I get a
date.  Woohoo!  Lord, let this process continue to move along smoothly. 
~~~~~
6/26/03 - Group meeting today went well.  Dr. O'Malley was very
thorough, though I must admit, I don't think I learned anything more than I already knew - a lot of thanks to this site!  They are scheduling
surgeries for October.  So we're looking at least another 3 months, but I'll get my date at my appointment on the 7th of July.  Also - my sister had her surgery today! She is doing great other than some nausea and chest gas pain.  She'll be out and about in no time - Glory to God!  Her name is Angela Burch, so stop in on her profile and feel free to post your Get Well Wishes on her surgery page by clicking here: 
HREF="http://www.obesityhelp.com/morbidobesity/profile.phtml?N=B1054072756">
Angela Burch Thanks!
~~~~~
7/7/03 - GOT MY DATE!  Woohoo!!  Ya know how I said they were
scheduling surgeries for October?  Well, Praise the Lord for His favor - my date is August 19, 2003!!!!  That is a little over a month a way!  I
couldn't be happier!!  Dr. O'malley was quick and to the point.  I love him.  I have my nurtrionist and psych eval tomorrow - then I need to schedule my gallbladder ultrasound and pre - op and I'll be on my way.  Thank You Lord -You are soooo good!!!
~~~~~
7/8/03 - Nutrition & Psych evals done.  Both no problem at all. 
Gallbladder ultrasound - 7/14.  Preop - 8/12.  Surgery - 8/19.  Things are moving right along.  Lord, please let everything from approval and preop testing to surgery, recovery and weight loss go smoothly. 
~~~~~
7/14/03 - Ultrasound done.  The check everything from gallbladder, to
liver, to kidneys, spleen and aorta!  Well - only a couple of steps
left.  Approval, pre-op and surgery!
~~~~~
7/18/03 - Had an appointment with my PCP today. He received the request for a letter of medical necessity and just wanted to see me again to make sure this is what I want to do.  He continues to be somewhat skeptical, but is really supportive and wonderful.  He dictated the letter while I was there, was pretty thorough, mentioning all of my wieght loss attempts and co-morbid conditions.  I am praying approval, pre-op & surgery goes without a hitch.  Well, tomorrow is my 12 year anniversary - my wonderful DH! I couldn't imagine life without him.  We leave forFlorida next Saturday - Universal Studios!  32 days left til surgery.  When I get back from vacation, there will only be a couple of weeks!
~~~~~
8/4/03 - Got back from Florida, Universal Studios yesterday after 9
days - 8 nights.  We had a wonderful time - but all I could think about
was this is the last vacation I'm going to be overweight like this.  I
couldn't fit on the Hulk Roller Coaster.  I was scared to death I would
need a seatbelt extension on the planes, but luckily I fit.  Got all of
our pictures developed and I can't beleive how awful I look.  I can not
wait to get to the losing side.  I started working out at the Y today. 
I'm going to go at least 3 days a week right after work.  I want to get
into the habit now so it will be easier after surgery.  Gotta get
vitamins, and a few other things.  Preop next Tuesday, and surgery is the Tuesday after that.  Still haven't heard on insurance, but I guess it may not come til the day before.  I beleive that God has brought me this far, and He has never failed me yet.  I know He never will. 
~~~~~
8/12/03 - Just got back from pre-op testing.  Was about an hour long,
pretty painless.  Blood work, EKG, Chest x-ray, paperwork.  Praying that all comes out ok.  I stopped up to Dr. O'Malley's office to see if they
had heard from insurance, and if they could give me an estimated time of surgery.  No - for both.  Grh.  So I came home and called Blue
Choice, spoke to Cindy.  She said I am approved!  Hallelujah, thank you Lord.  She said they don't send the approval letter til after - I've read this on other insurance companies too.  But she said I meet all of the
required criteria and it will be approved.  7 days to go.  I call on Monday
for my surgery time.
~~~~~
8/18/03 - Well, I must be the last one of the day.  My surgery time is
3:45, so I have to be there at 1:45.  Everything is all set to go.  I'm
on clear liquids today - which is fine b/c I'm so nervous I can't
really eat anyway.  Feel a little under the weather, like I may have a
slight fever or something.  But I'm standing against any attack that the
devil may throw at me now.  My God has brought me this far - there is
nothing he can do to stop it!  Thank You Lord!  I'll see everybody on the
other side...
~~~~~
*Pre-op Weight 275, BMI 47.37 (Highest weight was
278)*
~~~~~
8/21/03 - Home! Everything went well.  Had excellent care, both by Dr.
O'malley and his team, as well as the nurses at Highland.  I'm feeling
great - for being 2 days post op. I up and walking as much as possible.  Just a little sore. Now starts the journey of learning how and what to eat again.  Thank the Lord for his protection.  He will continue to see me through.   
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The procedure/hospital stay story:
Thought I'd let you know how things went as far as surgery.  On
Tuesday, August 19th we arrived at Highland @ 1:30 and went to the surgery area.  They called me in right away, and had me change in to my gown, took my temp, blood pressure (which was a little high) a shot of heprin (blood thinner to prevent clots) and told me how the day would go.  Family can stay with you at this point, although my boys opted to stay in the waiting room with the t.v.  My husband and I sat and talked, and I was amazingly calm.  I had no jitters, no nerves, nothing.  God just gave me peace.  My husband was a bit nervous though.  After a little bit of waiting, it was my turn.  I said goodbye to my husband and boys, and was taken to get prepped. (It was freezing in there!) The nurse was awesome.  She was very sweet and caring.  She numbs my hand, and starts the i.v.  Dr.O'malley and his team of surgeons come in to see if I am ready.  Then the anesthesiologist comes in and introduces himself, asks if I have any problems with anesthesia.  I let him know that it does make me very nauseous.  He says he'll take care of that then.  He starts pushing my bed down the hall to the O.R.  It was about 4:15 the last time I remember looking at the clock.  I barely remember getting into the O.R. and the anesthesiologist puts the mask on and tells me take deep breaths.  I take 2, and on the 3rd I felt like I couldn't breathe in - and I hear him say it's ok...and that's the last thing I remember til I woke up.  They were wheeling me to my room, and I notice they are putting me in a semi-private room.  I tell the nurse I asked for a private room, and they move me right away.  I have no idea what time it was at this point.  My husband and dad and sister were there.  (My sister-in-law had come and picked up my boys).  The nurse was checking my incisions and commenting on how tan my stomach was.  I had no drains or anything like that, just a scratchy throat from the breathing tube that was only in while I was under.  I was feeling fine, not in pain, and was thinking I have to get up and walk.  I told the nurse and she and my husband helped me get up to walk.  I got to my door and started feeling a little sick - dry heaves.  Got back in bed and she gave me something for my stomach that worked great - and I never felt nauseous again.  I was kind of in an out of it that whole night.  Later I remember feeling some pain/burning feeling as the anesthesia was wearing off and I hadn't had any pain meds yet.  They gave me vicodin, which worked great for me and didn't make me
sick.  I was able to get up and walk.  I got a decent nights sleep and
the next morning, I got up and thought - I feel great!  I could go home
today! I was up walking the halls by myself, watching t.v. chatting on
the phone etc.  I am SO GLAD I OPTED FOR A PRIVATE ROOM.  I wasn't bothered by another patient, or their visitors.  The room was air
conditioned and I could control it, watch tv, shut off the lights or do whatever I wanted.  Late in the evening on the 2nd day, I started sips of water.  (FYI - MY SURGEON DOES THE LEAK TEST WHILE IN SURGERY - THANK THE LORD!) I guess I was supposed to have a liquid tray for dinner time, but apparently it wasn't in the computer.  It was really fine with me, I had no desire to eat. I just relaxed, rested and walked that day. The next morning I got up and took a shower, dried my hair, was feeling great.  They brought in some carnation instant breakfast and lime jello..ick.  I had a tiny bit.  Dr. O'malley and his team came in every day, usually a couple of times a day.  Even the anesthesiologist came in the see how I was doing.  Today, I was being discharged though! Dr. O came in and gave me my post op directions, and I was on my way!  The nurses and Dr's were great.  Nurses were a little slow to answer the call button, but other than that I have NO complaints.  I never felt any regret.  Went home with my 11 staples, and a few prescriptions, and this was the start of my new life.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
8/22/03 - Good Morning!  3 days post op today.  Down 10 lbs.  Still on
full liquids, which includes strained cream soups and yogurt.  Feeling
great.  No need for pain meds.  Went for a walk around the block today.  It's gorgeous out.  All Glory to God! 
*3 DPO (Days Post Op, Weight 265, BMI 45.65, Loss of 10
lbs*
~~~~~
8/24/03 - 5 days post op, down 15 lbs.  Feeling awesome.  I am up and
around like normal.  Boys had football yesterday - was there from 11:30
- 7, keeping stats up and down the field etc.  I thank the Lord
everyday. Just ate late lunch.  1/2 cup cream soup (No chunks yet) and 1/4 cup
of yogurt.  Feel totally satisfied.  Miss chewing a little bit, but
it's well worth it! Walking 30 - 40 mins a day.
*5 DPO, Weight 260, BMI 44.79, Loss of 15 lbs* size>size>
~~~~~
8/30/03 - 11 days post up, down 20 lbs! Staples came out a few days ago
- just feels like a pinch.  Now on soft/pureed foods, thank the Lord! 
Had some mashed potatoes and some chicken (chew, chew, chew).  It was
great!  Of course, only a few bites, and I'm full.  Still walking 30 -
40 mins a day.  Glory to God - no complications, feeling great.  Praise
GOD!  He truly is awesome, and to know that he is concerned with my
minor details...Amazing Love.
*11 DPO, Weight 255, BMI 43.93, Loss of 20 lbs* size>size>
~~~~~
9/2/03 - 14 days post op, down 21.5 lbs!  Back to work today!  Feeling
great, and anxious to get back into the swing of things.  Routines are
a good thing!
*14 DPO, Weight 253.5, BMI 43.67, Loss of 21.5 lbs*

~~~~~
9/4/03 - 16 days po, down 22.5 lbs.  Still having no problems - other
than the 'runs' every now and then.  But, I'm not complaining, I'm so
thankful for this surgery!
*16 DPO, Weight 252.5, BMI 43.50, Loss of 22.5 lbs*

~~~~~
9/9/03 - 21 days po, (3 weeks) Down 26.5 lbs.  Quickly approaching my 1
month anniversary and plan to be over the 30 lb mark.  Walked for 90
mins last night - sore today!  Feeling great.  Energy level is ok - still
don't have all of my strength back but all in all I feel good.  I drink
my protien shake every morning with my vitamin regimen.  For lunch and
dinner still only eat a few bites of meat and veg.  I haven't noticed a
huge change in clothes yet, some are loose but nothing major.  It's
hard not to get anxious, but I just try to take 1 day at a time.  Bless
God!!
*21 DPO, Weight 248.5, BMI 42.81, Loss of 26.5 lbs*

~~~~~
9/16/03 - 28 days po, (4 weeks) Down 30 lbs!  My 1-month anniversary is
Friday 9/19/03, and I am happy to have made it over my goal of 30 lbs. 
Have been walking consistently and I'm feeling good.  Still a little
tired, I haven't slept very well since surgery, but I'm hoping that will
work itself out soon.  I'm so thankful for this tool, and give God all
the glory for "all things word together for good for those who love the
Lord..."  If you're unsure about it - take it to God!  I am so glad I
did!
*28 DPO, Weight 245.0, BMI 42.12, Loss of 30.0 lbs*

~~~~~
9/19/03 - Happy 1 Month Anniversary to me! I've lost 34 lbs...34 lbs
never to be found by me again! I've also lost 31.5 inches!  I'm still
doing great.  Walk nearly 5 miles a day.  2 miles at lunch and 3 miles in
the evening. Plus I walk on both of my 15 minute breaks. (These are all
fast paced walking) I'm still on soft foods, eating mostly chicken,(no
red meat yet) & cooked veggies.  I can't wait to be able to move on to
fresh veggies and have a salad! But, I really don't miss eating.  Don't
crave sweets at all.  Still a few bites at each meal fills me up, and I
eat my protien first.  I do protien shakes, I should do them daily -
but I'm not always religous about it.  I do take my vitamins every day,
and exercise. I see the Dr. Wednesday for my 1 mnth post op appt. so I
am anxious to see where I stand with my progress, and get the next phase
of diet.  I am so thankful, so so thankful, for this opportunity. 
Thank you Lord for your protection and help. 
*1 Month PO (31 days), Weight 241.0, BMI 41.52, Loss of
34.0 lbs*
~~~~~
9/23/03 - Happy Autumn to everyone - I love this time of year.  It's so
amazing what God has created.  The smell of the leaves, the crisp
air...it's truely awesome.  Well, 5 weeks today.  Down 37.5 lbs.  I am so
happy that I am now in the 30's, weighing in at 237.5.  Will be extremely
happy to lose the next 38 lbs and be in the 100's.  But, one day at a
time....Have a wonderful day and God Bless!
*5 weeks P.O. (35 days), Weight 237.5, BMI 40.91, Loss
of 37.5 lbs*
~~~~~
9/30/03 - My BMI has dropped below 40 - Hallelujah!
*6 weeks P.O. (42 days), Weight 230.0, BMI 39.62, Loss
of 45.0 lbs*
~~~~~
10/7/03 - Wow, 7 weeks.  Sometimes it seems like just yesterday, and
sometimes it seems like years ago.  Anyway, things are still going great. 
No complications.  Having a problem forcing myself to eat though.  I
have no desire to put anything in my mouth.  Do my vitamins every day,
but I know my weight loss is slowing due to lack of food and protien. 
But a bite or 2 and I just can't eat it.  I hope this works itself out
soon.  Still walking and feeling good.
*7 weeks P.O. (49 days), Weight 226.0, BMI 38.93, Loss
of 49.0 lbs*
~~~~~
10/14/03 - Have been on a plateau.  :(
*8 weeks P.O. (56 days), Weight 224.5, BMI 38.67, Loss
of 50.5 lbs*
~~~~~
10/19/03 - My 2 Month Anniversary.  Gosh.  I'm down 51.5 lbs and 52.08
inches in 2 months.  How dumb of me to feel discouraged because the
scale hasn't been moving much over the last 2 weeks.  I guess we all know
in our heads that plateaus are inevitable - but then when it actually
happens, its tough.  Anyway, I still thank the Lord so much for this
surgery.  I can't beleive what a change in me already.  I am trying to eat
a little bit more, I know not eating much has slowed down my loss. 
Also kicking up the exercise.  It definitely takes work on our part - this
isn't easy street!  I made my goal of 50 lbs in 2 months - now I've got
to push hard, I'd like to hit -75lbs by my 3 month anniversary.  That
would put me under 200.  ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE - WITH GOD! God Bless.
*2 months P.O. (61 days), Weight 223.5, BMI 38.50, Loss
of 51.5 lbs*
~~~~~
10/28/03 - Not quite sure what is going on.  I am losing very slow for
the last few weeks.  I am exercising faithfully at the Y - about 35
minutes on the treadmill at a pace of between 3.5 - 4.0, 10 mins on the
stairmaster, and then some light weights for toning.  I'm drinking ( or
shall we say gagging down) a protein shake every day and eating mainly
protein.  Not eating alot, but probably close to 60 grams of protein
including the shake (27.5).  Drinking @ 60 oz of water.  What else can I
do?  Leave it up to the Lord.  I'm trusting God knows what's best and
will take care of things.  God Bless.
*10 weeks P.O. (70 days), Weight 220.5, BMI 37.99, Loss
of 54.5 lbs*
~~~~~
11/4/03 - Weight Loss moving a little better again.  Feeling great. 
Still working out, eating mainly protein, and trying to get my water in. 
I thank the Lord so much for this opportunity.  Glory to God.
*11 weeks P.O. (77 days), Weight 217.0, BMI 37.38, Loss
of 58 lbs*
~~~~~
11/11/03 - Had a great week.  Have increased the cardio part of my
workout to 1 hour, (40 mins treadmill at a pace of 4.0, 15 mins stairmaster
then 5 mins on the bike to cool down) then I spend about 35 minutes
with weights.  I'm feeling awesome.  Never hungry, I eat only because I
have to.  Sure its hard sometimes, our family gets together all the time
and of course get togethers revolve around food.  Everyone grazes all
day, and the temptation is there sometimes, but nothing is worth the
weight I have lost and am going to lose.  So, I just fill up my glass of
ice water and sip!
*12 weeks P.O. (84 days), Weight 212.0, BMI 36.39, Loss
of 63 lbs*
~~~~~
11/19/03 - Happy 3 Month Anniversary to me!  Amazing what can happen in
90 days!  I have lost 70lbs since my surgery! I now weight 205.  I've
lost 48.28% of my excess weight, that leaves 51.72% to go (75lbs). 
2+1/2 more lbs and I will be half way.  In JUST 3 MONTHS!  My BMI is now
35.32.  After 2 more lbs it will be below 34.9, which will move me down
another category - just obese!  From Morbidly Obese (over 40.0), to
Severly Obese (35.0 - 39.9) to just obese in 3 months!  I have only dumped
once in the beginning and learned my lesson!  I go by the book - follow
every rule, and have been tolerating foods well.  I still have not
tried any sugar, and have no desire too.  I've had several get togethers
with tons of desserts, sweets and stuff and the Lord has just given me
strength!  I cannot begin to explain how awesome this is!  I'm still
working out 4 times a week.  An hour of cardio and 30 - 40 mins of weights. 
My stomach muscles are so sore - and it feels great!  My skin seems to
be doing ok, I'm not concerned at this point.  I just can't thank my
Lord enough for all that He has done for me, and this is just another way
that He has blessed me abundantly.  For years I have struggled and been
defeated by this weight, and finally through God, I will have the
victory!  I am being set free!  Hallelujah, Bless God!  If you're still
waiting, wondering, don't let your weight defeat you!  Seek God's will and
get the victory!
*3 months P.O. (92 days), Weight 205.0, BMI 35.32, Loss
of 70 lbs*
~~~~~
12/3/03 - It's been 2 weeks since my last post, and I've only lost 5
lbs...bummer. But, that means I'm teetering on the 190's!  Woohoo! That
also means that I've crossed the halfway mark, and my BMI has dropped 2
categories.  I have no clothes that fit, so this morning I went to my
12 yr. old sons dresser and pulled out a pair of his Aeropostale jeans
(34W 30L) and thought..do I dare?  They look so small. So I step into
them, pull them up, and they zip right up! Praise the Lord for all He has
done.  What a miracle.  Christmas will be here in 3 weeks.  I have so
much to be thankful for and can't wait to celebrate my Savior's birth. 
Merry Christmas to all of you!
*15 weeks P.O. (105 days), Weight 202.0, BMI 34.80,
Loss of 73lbs*
~~~~~
12/9/03 - Another week is gone, and so are 5 more lbs! Woohoo - 197!  I
am still in awe at what a miracle has happened in my life in just over
3 months.  I am 2 lbs away from -80.  My weight now starts with a '1'!!
and I will NEVER weigh in the 2's again!  I truly feel wonderful.  No
major problems.  Sometimes have a hard time eating, I go through phases
where nothing is appealing and I feel like I might get sick if I eat. 
I also get some pretty painful muscle cramps, mainly in my legs, but
also my hands and neck.  Probably not enough water.  I'm also freezing
all of the time.  I never thought that would be possible, I was always
hot.  But it seems like I just can't get warm, chilled to the bone.  But
as you can see, these are such a small price to pay when I consider
what I have gained (and lost!).  I feel so much more alive, healthy and
young.  I still have a ways to go...but failure is not an option.  I will
make it to goal.  Praise the Lord!
*16 weeks P.O. (112 days), Weight 197.0, BMI 33.94,
Loss of 78 lbs*
~~~~~
12/19/03 - 4 Month Anniversary. -83 lbs.  Was having a good month until
a nearly non-existent weightloss this past week b/c my husband and I
took this week off work to finish Christmas shopping and stuff. So we've
been on the go and I've been BAD with getting any protein,water or
exercising in.  I'll be glad when the Holidays are over and I'm back on a
schedule! So I didn't hit my goal of 85 lbs but I still have so much to
be thankful for.  83 lbs in 4 months is pretty decent, and I feel
great.  Wearing size 14 pants and dresses and large shirts. I can buy
clothes of the rack in regular stores. Amazing! Praise You Lord!
*4 months P.O. (122 days), Weight 192.0, BMI 33.08,
Loss of 83 lbs*
~~~~~
12/30/03 - Will finally be back to work tomorrow after a lot of
vacation time, the Holidays and a Youth Convention.  All of that equals no
good eating regimen, no exercise, water, protein etc.  Bad, I know.  Next
week I'll be back on track. 
*19 weeks P.O. (133 days), Weight 188.5, BMI 32.47,
Loss of 86.5 lbs*