debrapowell
My name is Debi and I'm 41 yrs old. I've been divorced for 2 yrs now and turning 40 was wonderful for me!!! And it's only getting better.
I'm new to considering this surgery. I'm not one to give in to any type of surgery if I have a choice but I've tried everything else and I may loose partial use of my right leg because of arthritis.
I'm determined to do this now, and I'm looking for those that have had the surgery to talk with. I researching the Gastric Band surgery, but I understand I may have to have it done open.
12/12/02~~ I'm still determined to get surgery. I met my surgeon a on 12/03/02, and although I was very pleased with him, I found out that he is out of network for my insurance and right now the amount that I would be responsible for is a major obstacle for me.
I'm getting discouraged, but I have to remember that I've only just begun and many of you have struggled a long time to get your surgery. I wanted to have surgery by the end of January at the latest. I travel some with my job and "tis the season" for alot of those conferences. Please............if there is anyone out there willing to give me some advice, support, and just a shoulder to cry on. It's difficult expressing myself to family and friends who think I can wait.
Help, help, help!
12/16/02~~
I found a dr on my plan. I realized that I had to. I couldn't afford the amount that I would be responsible for with an out of network dr. I called a Dr in Hackensack NJ by the name of Dr Garth Ballantyne. I called his office this morning and got an appt for 1/15/03. That was the earliest appt I could get. I feel like being a pain in the butt and calling back to make sure they'll let me know of any cancellations, but I'm sure they will.
I asked about the waiting list for surgery and she said he won't schedule a date until at least 3-4wks from the consultation. So my new date that I would like is 2/14/03 which is Valentine's Day! Pray for me.
Thank God for this site, cos it's the only place I can really express what I'm really feeling...............no one else seems to understand and I have to realize that why would they?? They have no idea what I'm going thru.
I love you all, even if I don't know you.
12/17/02
I can't believe it......I rec'd a call from the original dr I chose (Dr Artuso)today, and the insurance woman, Rita, said that after she heard that I cancelled my appt. she wanted to know why. I told her I needed to find a dr on my plan as the amount of money I would be responsible for was a major obstacle for me, she said that the doctor is going to accept my insurance as payment and he's waiving my fee. I will only have to pay my co-payment as well as any co-insurance payment which I don't even know if I have.
I WAS SO EXCITED THAT I CRIED ON THE PHONE THANKING HER, AND TELLING HER TO THANK DR ARTUSO FOR ME!!!!!!
So, my people, my appt for everything needed pre op is for TOMORROW MORNING AT 7:30 AM!!!
I'm crying while writing this and I know you all know how I feel!
I am also crying out for help here...........I need a friend and haven't been able to connect with anyone as of yet. I haven't been active on the site for long but have been researching for a while now and am familiar with the site. Please anyone able to call me 845-446-3686 I'm in upstate NY. I work during the day but you can leave a message and I'll call back in the evening.
Any help would be appreciated, this is moving rather quickly for me and even though I'm estatic about that............I'm alittle scared.
thanks and love
debi
12/18/02
I had my evaluations this morning and everything went well. I spoke with a pulmonary dr, as well as a nurse and dietition. I didn't need the sonogram cos I've had my gallbladder removed, and I had an echo cardiogram at my own dr a couple of weeks ago.
So I know I need a psych eval still right? And I left the hospital without speaking to anyone from the office so I don't have a definite date yet. I have a tentative date of surgery for Jan. 15th. So I'll give a call tomorrow and see if it can be scheduled.
I met a friend from the site, por fin, and he and I spoke yesterday for the first time (thanks again Abu). He's 2 yrs post op, and who better to speak with. Like I always say, don't take dance lessons from a man with no feet!
12/19/02
I called my dr's office today to find out what my next step is and she said I need my letter from my doctor stated my attempts at weight loss over the years. That shouldn't be a problem, I called immediately and they said they will send it before tomorrow. I also need a psych evaluation and that's seeming alittle bit more difficult. I called who my dr recommended and he wants $300 for the visit. He also made me feel like insurance doesn't cover this, which would make me looking for someone on my plan useless. I need to find this out first. It's become my mission today. ( I can't seem to get any work done........this is all I think about on a daily basis) Help!
I haven't even finished my Christmas shopping!
12/20/02
UPDATE~
I still haven't found out if my insurance will pay for a psych eval or not. Please if anyone knows email me asap! I went to my orthepedic dr yesterday to check the numbness and burning in my knee area where I have the arthritis. He took xrays and found out that I've got arthritis in my back as well as my hips. He doesn't understand how I'm not in more pain then I am. I'm just focusing on the surgery and knowing that the sooner I lose the weight the sooner I can expect to feel the changes in my arthritis. My dr (ortho) is in FULL support of the surgery being done as soon as possible~
I'm still keeping my tentative date in January but I'd like to move it up to the 13th if that's possible.
I'm going to call my drs office now.
12/23/02
Hi all, hope everyone is preparing for a happy holiday. We're expecting snow in my area ON Christmas!!
Little update..............I found 4 drs that are on my plan and can do a psych eval for me. I called all four so I could decide and one is out for an extended holiday, the second to call sounded great, and has some basic knowledge of WLS from doing evals on other patients. I "clicked" with him over the phone so I'm going to go with him. So that's good news. Not so good news is my knees are giving me problems and I have a cyst in my GOOD knee. Can't wait for the changes that this surgery will bring. I'm soooooooooooo ready to change this part of my life.
Happy Holidays to all........
12/30/02
Update
I'm patiently waiting for the holidays to be over before I can get an appt with a dr for my psych eval. I found a dr, but he won't be back until after the new year. I'm still suffering from burning in my knee from arthritis in my back. I refuse to let my faith waiver.
Keep praying for me and Happy New Year!
1/6/03
Update
Well, Happy New Year again!!! Hope all is well with everyone! I'm glad the holidays are over and I can get back to my focus of getting my surgery date finally! I called the dr's office for my appt for a psych eval and I have an appt for this friday at 5pm. I called my dr's office to see if they rec'd all the paperwork from my general dr for my approval with insurance and they'll be calling me back sometime today.
I'm not doing so well with my knee! The burning has gotten worse and it keeps me from filling all my obligations with work. I'm hanging in there though and am very careful not to let my faith waiver.
Hope I'll be writing again this afternoon to give my update after speaking with Dr Artuso's office.
1/7/03 9:15am
Update
Ok Gang, I'm not doing so well today. I just called Dr. Artuso's office, after getting in my office this morning (9am)and recieving a voicemail from Dr. Artuso "himself", apologizing for taking so long to return the call and asking me to call the office "tomorrow" (meaning today).
I just called the office and after being on hold a couple min, which I never mind, I'm a patient person by nature......and very pleasant, but when a woman returned to the phone I asked where I stand and she said "well what time of the year were you thinking about having your surgery"?..................
Ok!!! Dr. Artuso and I have spoken about January from the beginning. That hasn't changed for me............and even if it wasn't possible, I could take that!!! BUT I WASN'T TOLD THAT YESTERDAY............DR ARTUSO HIMSELF SAID JAN IS FINE.......
I have alot laying on this because my job is sometimes demanding and I've gotten all the support I could ask for from my boss....but he just needs to know when it's going to be!! I'm very upset now. The woman from the office said she'll "have to talk to my supervisor, and get back to you"
I'm not taking this too well..........HELP!
Same Day Update!
1/7/03 2:00pm
They did call me back. They didn't get my letter from my dr's office. I called my dr and they were right. He forgot to fax it. I've since called my dr's office twice and I'm getting ready to call back again now. I'm being a pain in the ass but you know what?? I have to be...........this is my life we're talking about.
I've exhaled...........and I'm using my meditation skills to get me thru this day.
1/8/03
Update
RITA IS A DOLL!!! She works in Dr Artuso's office and she's the one to speak to if you want the truth. She was just who I needed to speak to this morning........and even though I realize now that she's really busy, I'd rather ask for her everytime!
My pysch eval was moved up to 3:30 on friday instead of 5pm, so that's ok. I've already spoken to the secretary and she said that if I can get the dr to write a letter right after my visit, that she can fax it on monday for me. I'm looking at somewhere around the 27th of January as a date of surgery! God willing!
1/13/03
Update
Sorry I haven't written in a couple of days, I just got my new computer at home up and running! I had my psych eval done on friday afternoon. It was a "piece of cake" (oops, mind off food)! He was very straight forward with what he wanted to know. Because of all of the research I've done on the surgery, (which I highly recommend for all who are just thinking about it)I knew all the answers to the questions he had on my surgery (Gastric Band) and the RNY. I came prepared. Otherwise they just want to make sure you're prepared for the changes in your life immediately following the surgery.
His office called me this morning and said the letter was faxed! I called Dr Artuso's office and they haven't gotten back to me yet. I just want to make sure they now have rec'd everything they need to start the procedure with my insurance company. I'm still "crossing my fingers" for the 27th of January. I'm getting everything wrapped up at work and my boss is being very supportive. I'm ready.............but the waiting is hard! My friends, family and co-workers I'm sure are sick of me talking about it, but it's all I can think about.
~I decided today that I want my sister to take pics of me as soon as I come out of surgery......all the pics I'm going to tell her not to take? I want her to take. I want to have them to remember what I went through so that I never find myself on the other side again!
Keep your head up!
debz
1/14/03
Update
I GOT MY DATE!!!!! JANUARY 27TH!!! I'm on my way to the other side!!!
I just spoke with my dr's office and I have to fax them a letter tomorrow and I'm ready! I'm excited but I don't think I'll find it hard to use the time I have from now until then to get everything wrapped up at my job and home. I'm very happy and thank God first and foremost!!
1/17/03
Update
Sorry for not keeping up to date. I know how it is to read these journals cos I've read them for so long and it's like reading a good book, you can't wait to get to the next chapter!
My date is still the 27th! I'm starting to get alittel nervous but that's normal.
I advise anyone who gets their date to post it on the WLS site as soon as possible cos I gotta tell you.......my email box was full the same day I posted. Full of well wishes and blessings. I was in tears to see the people supporting me through this. This is a great site!
Believe it or not, I'm moving on the 24th and 25th! Right before the surgery....but my church family as well as my immediate family will be taking care of most of it. I'm not letting anything "sway" me at this point. I want to be in the right frame of mind when I reach the "other side". Which I must share with you, sounds kinda "creepy" when you say it to someone who doesn't know what it means. I told a friend of mine "I can't wait to be on the other side" and she said "no, debi don't say that.......I'm sure you're going to be fine"! LOL
1/20/03
Update!
7 more days to go!!!! I'm so excited that I can't sleep at night. (well really last night was the first night I couldn't sleep)
I've decided that I'll be staying with my parents following the surgery because I don't want to be alone. My computer will still be packed away so it may be a couple days to a week before I'm able to get online to update my page. Please be patient with me, and THANKS SO MUCH FOR ALL THE BLESSINGS AND PRAYERS......they're still coming in daily, and it's really helping me.
I'll write again right before I pack up the computer (to move) and then that'll be it!! The next time I write I'll be on the other side!!
1/22/03
Update
Well, I've been approved for my hospital stay, and I think I'm still waiting for my approval for the surgery. I called my insurance company and they said they don't approve out of network drs before surgery. I will have to pay the deductible afterwards (which in my case is $183.00) and they will pay 80% of what's left.
I'm on my way to the hospital now for my pre op testing. I was told not to eat after 9am this morning, but I was too nervous and busy on the phone this morning and I forgot to eat! (wow, now that's something that could come in handy afterwards! lol)
I'm going to stop up in the dr's office while I'm at the hospital to sign all my consents and medical release form. I'll try and write again tonight or tomorrow night and then I'll be packing up the computer. Thank you again for all the well wishes and blessings, I can't believe the support that this site provides for us!! God Bless all going on this journey!
debi~
1/24/03
Update
Well this is the last time I'll be updating before my surgery. I'm in the process of moving too and my computer is going to be packed for a couple of weeks. I promise to try and get a relative to update just to let you know everything went fine.
Last minute, today, after my medical clearance.....my dr's office called to tell me that they just found out that my insurance doesn't cover "implants"!!! and the gastric band is cosidered an implant!
Long story short I'll be going in for the bypass surgery monday morning instead of the band which I had planned on. Big disapointment but I'm so glad I ended up researching both of them!
I am alittle nervous now because it changes my mindset for afterwards a bit.
I'm sure I'll be fine because I have the best surgeon in the world. Dr Artuso is wonderful, and I'm sure I"ll be writing more praises post op for him as well as Rita that works in his office. I certainly wouldn't want her job!
See you all on the other side!
love debi
1/27/03
Update
had my surgery today still in the hospital ( my sister is doing a little update).doctor was able to do laparoscopic came through with flying colors, feeling a little groggy but otherwise pretty good. i have to get x-rays in the morning and then should be able to go home by late afternoon. will write again soon
2/9/03
Update!!!!!!!!!
Hello to all and thanks SO much for all your prayers and well wishes. Sorry for the late update but I've had my computer packed up and I've been staying with my parents waiting for my new place. (No computer there)
I've been dying to say hello to all of you and tell you alitte of what's been going on. I may jump around alot but I want to make a few points that may help those still pre op!
At the last minute on friday before my surgery my insurance company approved my Gastric Band. They consider a Band, an implant. They were willing to cover a Bypass, and I don't think the band was indicated when my doctor was seeking approval. So..I was able to go ahead with my plans. What a relief that was.
**My opinion only*** I don't believe enough info is out there on the band and I think alot more people might consider it if they knew more about it. I plan on writing an article about my experience in about 9 mos, (after I have experience to speak of).
Everything went better then I imagined!! I was fine afterwards, no pain to speak of, except for the potassium they had to put in my IV after the surgery. Whew!! That was painful!! Like a burning in my arm!!I had to get them to dilute that more. Otherwise I was up and moving the next day. I had my surgery on monday morning at 8:30 and headed out the door Tuesday afternoon by 5pm!
My incisions are almost completly healed, I started driving about 10 days out, and I feel great today!
The first 8 days were difficult with only liquids.....then I started on pureed foods like scrambled eggs and mashed potatoes, and 5 days after that more solid foods. I'll eat oatmeal for breakfast, 1/2 of baked potato for lunch, and a few bites of chicken, and about 3oz of cooked carrots for dinner. I'm really not hungry in between, and that really surprises me!
I lost 19 lbs in the first 4 days!
I weighed in at 276 day of surgery, and today I weigh 254!! 22 lbs!! and I already feel great! mainly because I know I don't have to see those 22 lbs ever again!!
I'll update more soon,
debi
Update
2/11/03
Well I'm going to my first support group meeting tonight. I'm pretty excited about that. I hope to meet some other people that have had the band as opposed to the bypass. I'll let you know how it was!
debi
2/19/03
Update
Sorry for the late update. The support group was great. I met a woman who had a band procedure and that was my goal. We exchanged cards and I'm sure we'll be of help to each other. She's about a week ahead of me with her surgery date.
The group was informative and they have a speaker every month so I look forward to the next one.
I've only lost a couple lbs since my last update. I've seemed to slow down suddenly. I'm going to ask when I call my dr tomorrow. I'm down to 252 from 276, so I haven't made it to 25lbs yet. I'm trying not to get discouraged cos I feel great. My food is staying down, I'm not having a problem with anything and I haven't even felt nauseous at all! So it's not quite a month out and I've lost 24lbs. 24lbs that I don't have to ever see again!
Update
2/22/03
MADE IT TO 250 LBS!!!!!!Lost another 2 lbs and I was so happy to see the scale say 250!!
Just had to share that, and oh yeah, I went to a party last night and I had a few drinks. I was fine but I think it affects me different now. Only a couple made me buzzed! Don't plan on doing that again anytime soon, don't choose to drink my calories that's all!
3/17/03
Update
Sorry it's been so long....let's see, I'm 7wks post op. Feeling great! and I'm down about 35 lbs!! I came to a stop for awhile and went in for my first adjustment for my Gastric Band. That was alittle more painful then I thought but he had a hard time finding the hole he needed to put the needle in. (any one wanting more on the adjustments for the band please feel free to email me)
I had stopped at weighing 250 lbs and I was starting to get frustrated. over 2wks went by with no loss. After the adjustment?????? I weighed myself a few days later and I was down to 242 lbs!!!!
I lost a dear friend who tragically passed away a few days ago, and I'm having a hard time, but I am hanging in there and will not let my health or committment sway! I am starting to like the new relationship I have with food!!!
Prayers for all starting this journey!! I'd do it again in a heartbeat!!
Update
04/08/03
Well I'm down 39 lbs!!! trying to reach that 40 mark. It's a little slower than I thought but I'm very happy with the results and I think with exercise maybe my skin will cooperate!
I'm over 2 mos out and almost 40 lbs???? I could live with that. I'm eating everything except for beef and rice, and I'm in no rush for either. I have plenty of choices.
I'm starting to exercise more.....with all that has happened in my life I wasn't finding the time.
I also had a bad episode with eating too fast. I took a bite of a chicken fajita and didn't chew it well enough.......whew! I was in pain for 4 hours!!! couldn't even swallow my own saliva!
I won't do that again!
Sorry for the short update, but please feel free to email me. Especially if you're having the band. I can give you so much more in detail, that I wouldn't bore others with.
Blessings to all
UPDATE
4/23/03
I'm down 46 lbs!!! almost at my first goal of 50 lbs. In fact I may already be there but I haven't weighed myself in the last couple of days. I was 276 pre op and now I'm about 230!! I'm very happy with my results and would still do this again in a heartbeat!!
I had a goal of losing 50 lbs by May 15th, cos I'm taking a trip to the beach, but now I'm setting a new goal of 60 lbs by the same date. I'm going for an adjustment on next week and I've lost about 12-15 lbs with my fill the first time.
I'm still available for anyone having the band if you wanna chat or ask questions. I love helping others........it blesses me more.
UPDATE
5/14/03
Hi everyone! sorry for not updating sooner. I"m doing great, down about 55lbs in alittle over 3 mos. It'll be 4 mos on the 27th of this month. I feel great. I'm now wearing some size 16 in pants and skirts, and 18-20 in tops. My breast cup size hasn't seemed to change at all but I lost alot in my back area. I used to wear a size 44 DDD bra. Now probably a 40 DDD. Don't know if I'll lose any of the breast, but I was hoping to go down at least one or two cup sizes........maybe a D or DD? Oh well, I'm still so grateful for the weight loss. I'm doing fine with eating and I still enjoy food!
***TIPS***
I wish I would have taken my measurements along with my starting weight so I can see the progress.
Also it's a great idea to keep a journal. Using these updates are good for the progress part, but keeping a personal journal post op is a big help to yourself when you start going thru the pyschological part of this journey.
I'm going to the beach tomorrow for 5 days! can't wait to just relax and enjoy the sound of the Ocean!
6/5/03
Update
Hi Everyone! Looks like I'm only updating once a month. I said I wouldn't "slack" off when it comes to this cos I remember how much help it was to me when I was first starting out.
Well I'm down almost 60 lbs. 59 to be exact. I had another adjustment (second one) and that was last thursday, so I expect to lose more this week because of that. I'm right about where I want to be so I'm not complaining, and my dr is pleased. I wore a size 14 skirt yesterday....WOW!! Can't even remember wearing a 14!! I'm going to take pics soon cos I don't have any and I saw a pic of me taking candidly at church, and I couldn't believe it was me!! Thank you God
***TIPS****
GO TO SUPPORT GROUPS.............It will help your journey. Don't think you don't need them. Even if you don't share, just listen........someone will have the same thoughts as you.
DON'T BUY ANY NEW JEWELRY THAT YOU WANT TO KEEP WEARING.....unless it can be adjusted. My wrist are too small for bracelets I"ve always loved and my favorite ring has been moved to all fingers except for my thumb! (oh well)
Update
7/16/03
I'm so sorry I haven't updated until now. I promised myself I wouldn't do that when I became post op. I depended on these profiles and updates when I was pre op and I hope I'm helping someone just the same way.
Well I've be dealing with a plateau lately (is that how you spell that?) and I didn't lose as much with the last adj as I did with the first one. That was disapointing. I'm down now almost 70 lbs. It's really creeping off at this point. I weighed 209 this morning and I started at 276. I'm looking to reach that 75 lb mark and I plan on losing a total of 106 lbs. I'm going to do it. my Dr said I'll have another adj in a few weeks so I'll go with that.
Otherwise I'm really fine with my wt loss and I'm looking good. I wear a size 16 comfortably and some 14's (as you read last month). I also went to the OPTIONAL BEACH with my sister last week and took my top off!! (can you believe it?)
Life is good. Blessings to you all!
****Tips****
Exercise, exercise, exercise!!!!!! It'll help all that loose skin find it's way out of your life!
8/11/03
Update
Well I need to share my latest experience with my surgery. Remember though that I have a band I didn't have bypass surgery. I ended up in the hospital last week after spending almost 2 days not being able to swallow. I didn't know what was wrong and thought it was a regular episode following not chewing enough. (which I really rarely do) Long story short I was admitted into the hospital on thurs. given Morphine to get thru the night, and saw my dr in the morning. As soon as I saw him I knew everything would be alright. My band slipped and ended up down at the bottom of my stomach. He loosened the band with a regular adj procedure and now "I'm open". He's going to check me again next week and see if the stomach has fallen naturally back into the band. If not he may have to go back in and do surgery. I'm not the least bit worried. (although I was at first in the hospital) I have total faith in my dr.
Please if anyone band pts. (or anyone else) has any questions, please don't hesitate to email me. I want to help in anyway I can.
*****and for the record???? I would STILL do this again in a heartbeat*****************
down 82lbs!!! I now am under 200 for the first time since I was a teenager! I'm wearing size 14!! I weigh 194lbs!! From 276lbs!
Update
8/21/03
I went back in to be checked and the BAND IS IN PLACE!!!! all the dr had to do was give me a regular tightening and I was outta there!! No surgery!!!
I'm down 85 lbs and I'm happy. I'm 26 lbs from my goal!! I can't believe it. I'm still wearing size 14, but I feel a size 12 coming on STRONG!!
Update
9/11/03
It hasn't been a month yet but I wanted to update cos I'm going away on business and then coming right back and leaving on alitte vacation to the beach.
I'm doing well following the episode last month. I've lost now a total of 92 lbs!!!! and have 8 more to go before joining the "Century Club" hooray!! I weigh 184 lbs and my goal is 165. I may or may not reach my goal but that's ok. That's like another 19 lbs to go!
I went to Lane Bryant yesterday and I've found that I'm officially out of their pants. I tried on 3 pr of jeans in a size 14, all different styles (stretch etc) and they are too big! I can still fit in a size 14 tops cos I'm still sporting a 38 DD. lol
I"m happy, I still love my dr to death!!! and I give all my praises to God!
UPDATE
10/03/03
HI everyone! still dancing between a wt loss of 96-98 lbs but can't seem to hit that 100 mark. I'm going to give it another week and then I'm going to request another (my last) adjustment. I decided that I want to try and make my goal of 165lbs and right now I"m 178, so that's another 13 lbs. My size 14s are baggy but I'm still wearing them. I feel great and have had no problems since the beginning of August. I love this time of year and I can even say that I'm getting used to the compliments! look for my pics to be posted very soon!!
UPDATE
10/20/03
Hi Again! well as soon as I called the dr for my adjustment, I managed to take off a few more lbs. I've lost 101 lbs!!!I now weigh 175 lbs leaving me with 10 more lbs before hitting my goal. I know I'm eating more so I'm still going to go for another adjustment and hope it'll be my last. I've given it much thought and I've decided that I don't want to have my band removed as long as it doesn't give me any problems. I'm happy, although I'm still adjusting to buying size 12 clothes and saying good bye to Lane Bryant and the Avenue!!
Love to you all
UPDATE
11/04/03
Hello my wls brothers and sisters! I'm doing fine and just wanted to do a quick update. I'm down 105 lbs and all the way "in" a size 12 pants. I'm still wearing a size 14 when it comes to dresses and blouses, I guess because I'm still at a 38DD bust size. I find myself looking in the mirror more amazed now!! I really can't believe it sometimes. The support I"ve gotten from my family, my church family, and friends has just been amazing. I simply couldn't have done it without them!
I didn't get another adjustment yet, but I'm going to wait and see what happens over the next week.
I don't have a tip this month (yet) but I want to tell you about my "hanging skin"......not very sexy! (hehehe) Especially my breast. Even with a bra on I look down sometimes and it's all wrinkly (if that's a word). I DON'T WANT TO HAVE SURGERY!! I want to work out more and see if I could do something that way. Please if anyone has any advice for the breast or for my arms, email me asap!!
Love to you all, and I'll be posting my pics maybe today!!
Update
12/28/03
Sorry for the late update. I'm doing fine with a total wt loss of 112lbs!!! I weigh 164lbs, and wearing a size 10!! I've noticed that weight seems to be "shifting" because I went down in sizes without really losing wt. I just lost the last 5 lbs in the last couple of weeks. I still haven't gotten what I hope will be my last fill yet. I'm still amazed by the reflection in the mirror and when I see myself in pictures. I love this surgery. I'm having a seminar on January 27th in Orangeburg, NY. Please if anyone is interested send me an email. It's free and all sorts of people are going to be there. I have some powerful speakers and it's going to be very informative.
Love to you all, and blessings for a happy and healthy New Year!
1/27/04
Today is my one year anniversary!!! I'm down exactly 116 lbs today. I weigh in at 160!!! and wearing a size 10-12!! I was supposed to have a seminar tonight but due to the expected snowstorm I'll have to reschedule it. I want to say thank you for all the well wishes I rec'd for my anniversary, I couldn't have made it without those who supported me on this site. Thank you all!! I feel great, and I would do this again in a heartbeat! My life has truly changed and I'm being surprised on a daily basis with the things I can accomplish now. Thank you Creator first and foremost, thank you Dr. A, I love you, and thank you to my family, friends and supporters!!!
2/22/04
I was reminded by a friend that I haven't updated my page. And that's alright because I know how important it was to me and I want to do the same for others. I never want to get "too good" to think I don't need the support that comes with this site and my circle of support.
My seminar has been rescheduled and will be on March 10 from 7-9:30 in Orangeburg NY. If anyone that lives in the area would like to attend, it's free! Just send me an email! Haven't lost any wt in the last month, I'm trying to exercise more and I'm still considering another adjustment (fill).
hugs and kisses to you all!
4/28/04
Whew! I've been so busy at work. Sorry for the delay in updating. I wanted to report that I had an episode of "not chewing" and boy did that give me a "shove" when it comes to getting "cocky". You can NEVER forget your responsibilities when it comes to this surgery. It needs to be respected at ALL times. I just took a bite of piece of chicken and didn't chew it up enough. I had the "lump" in my chest for a couple of hours and couldn't eat anything.
I haven't lost anything else, and I even played around with putting on 4-5 lbs. I haven't been exercising and that has to change. I still want to get another fill too. My clothes however, are loser then ever on me. I'm wearing mostly size 10's and some size 8. I"m very pleased with that.
I"ve been doing phone counseling for women (and men) all over the country and that's been interesting also. Just people wanting to talk about my experience and ask specific questions. I believe you con't to be blessed when you "give back"!!
7/27/04
UPDATE
Again I'm sorry for not keeping up on my journal here. I don't know if anyone else post op for a yr or more can relate to this but it seems like "everything" is in relation to my wt loss when it comes to friends and family. For example they'll say "oh, now that you've lost wt you don't know how to call anyone back" or "now that you're skinny, you can't hang out with us anymore" or "now that you've lost wt you don't have time to do the things you used to do"...............
I don't want to neglect my committments. I believe it's very important to keep it "green" when it comes to this surgery. You can't go and forget that this is only a tool and we have the power to sabatoge this surgery if we're not careful.
I've put on 4 lbs and it's been on me for over a month now. I want to go and get another fill however I know that I need to "check" myself on my food, and my exercise. I want to do that first. I want to help as many people as possible thru my emails and calls that I get. I NEED THAT TO STAY ON THE RIGHT TRACK!!!!Thanks to all that email me and to those who are reading this, feel free, I'd be happy to answer anything I can.
UPDATE
09/27/04
I haven't lost the wt that I recently put on and have instead added to that. I am now in the process of getting another fill on the 4th of next month. I haven't had an adjustment since August of last year and I thought I could do without another one. I am putting on wt but not only because I'm eating more. I have gained back some of my old eating habits and I see the difference.
This surgery isn't too hard to sabatoge as I've said in the past. If you're not careful you can start to put wt on afterwards. I am still trying to reach my goal of 145lbs and I have further to go now. I know that the fill will make a great difference but more importantly I have to renew my faith in myself when it comes to my eating.
Please, if anyone has experienced the same please contact me. I think I really need some help!!!!
Update
10/21/04
Ok, I'm going to try to make this short without leaving anything out. I had a fill on the 4th of this month. A few days later I had a problem swallowing. It got worse over the course of the day and evening and I had to go to the hospital by that night. Long story short after transferring to Dobbs Ferry Hosp. Dr Artuso found that my "band" had slipped too much to fix it thru the regular adjustment procedure. He had to go back in and do surgery. So I had a revision of my gastric band surgery. The good thing was that he only needed to go into the small 4 incisions as opposed to using 5. The 5th one being the biggest for the port. This made the recovery a "breeze". I feel great now, I went back to work after a week. I've lost 17 lbs and am back down to 160! As a matter of fact I got on the scale this morning and it said 158!!! I'm going to try and reach a goal of 150 instead of 145. I think I may be pushing it with that one. God bless! And everyone please say a prayer for a friend named Susan that's going to be going in for surgery soon!
Update
11/04/04
Just wanted to check in and let you know how I'm doing after my revision. Over all it was very humbling, going thru the liquids again and stages of food. UGH!!!! is all I have to say about that. I'm going in for another adjustment to follow the surgery because as far as I can understand I'm a little "open" and following surgery would need a tightening. I spoke to my wonderful dr yesterday and he has no doubts about me making my goal of 145-150. I'm still at 158-160lbs.
Update ****2 year Anniversary****
01/27/05
Two years ago I made the most important decision of my life. I met the man that was going to change my life, Dr Artuso!!
Hello my WLS friends, I'm celebrating 2 yrs post op and from my highest weight I've lost 141 lbs!!! My highest weight was 301 lbs, and today I weigh 160. (that's right, I haven't lost since my last update):(
I was 276 right before surgery, so if I calculated that I would say that I've lost 116lbs over the last 2 years, most of that weight being lost in the first year! Thank you Creator first, Dr Artuso second, and my support system of friends and family! I'm loving life and this is only the beginning!!
Update
03/16/05
I'm sorry for not updating every month but I'm thinking of editing my profile because it's getting so long. I do still get response though saying that reading my entire journal was helpful. I'm doing well, although I haven't lost anymore weight. I've started a new gym and am looking into my "tummy tuck". I don't think I'm going to lose anymore until I get the extra skin removed but I'm ok with that. I'm still looking for a goal wt of 145lbs and a perfect size 8! I'm wearing a size 10 now.
Update
08/11/2005
I'm doing well and am still on my journey. As I said in the earlier months I wanted to look into getting a Tummy Tuck. I found a good dr that I like and am having my procedure on August 24th which is in a couple of weeks!! I requested surgery for my stomach as well as my arms but the insurance company only approved the Tummy. I'm going to appeal the decision on my arms (because they are really bad and I plan to get my dermo to help me) but not until after this procedure.
Please don't hesitate to email me with any questions about the Band surgery....it's becoming more popular, and I'm a TOTAL fan of it, with minimal reservations!
I'll write and let you know how the surgery went!!
Update
09/27/05
My date changed and I had my Tummy Tuck on 9/1/05. That was one month ago almost, and I feel great! My drs did a great job and I'm very satisfied with the results. I still have a lot of swelling but I understand that will be for at least 3 mos. The dr said he took off 12 lbs of skin but it only showed up on the scale as 8 lbs, and even that has changed with swelling and fluids I'm sure. I'm very happy with it and for the first time as a adult I can see my "cat"!!! LOL I can't wait to get back in the gym next week and slowly start up my exercising to enhance my surgery and really get in shape! I do have to say on another note though, I hate anesthesia and I'm not looking forward to having ANY more surgeries. Even though I know I have to have my arms done. Just wanted to share that.
Update
4/3/06
I'm so sorry for the long space of time between updates. After 3 yrs I do still want to keep updating. I'm still in the range of weighing between 164-169 lbs. I've had the tummy tuck and am now looking into the surgery for my arms. They are really bad and I've actually been told that by dr's. It's not only me. I never got back into the gym the way I was before the surgery in Sept. I do still need to get back in there. I run my own support group meetings now and I can't tell you how important support groups are!!!! It's the only way to keep this gift. I mean that!! I still want to reach a goal of 150 lbs so I'm hoping after one more surgery and getting back in the gym I can achieve that. Love to all, pre op and post op!
Update
2/21/2007
Well, should I start off with my usual apology or just get right to the point?? I rec'd an email from a woman named Candy and I want to thank her for pushing me even more to update. I've seemed to forget how important it was for me before I had surgery and how much I depended on these profiles to get motivated and to get important information. Ok, I'm doing well. Celebrated my 4 yr anniversary of having Weight Loss surgery (Gastric Band). I had originally lost about 120 lbs and I have put back on several pounds over the last year. I'm now weighing between 168-175 lbs. Today I'd say closer to the 175. How do I feel about that?? Scared to death!! I had an adjustment back in October of last year and lost a few pounds with that, putting it back on within a month or so. I stopped going to the gym because it doesn't fit in my schedule!! Ha.....can you believe I'm saying that? I wouldn't have this schedule if it weren't for my weight loss. I still run support groups once a month and go to one myself once a month. Still is the most important thing to me. I con't to wear a size 10 but just last year I could get into many size 8's. I bought a pair of pants last week that were a size 12! Ugh! Now I'm just being honest my brothers and sisters. Isn't that what you want??
I start back in the gym tomorrow morning....(did updating have anything to do with that??) I will update early next month to let you know how I'm doing. I still want to reach a goal of 150 lbs!
Please email if you want to know any details. (food, portions, getting sick etc) I'd be happy to answer and share and you would be helping me!!
