fattykoo30
Hi my name is Teresa you can call me T. I am now 30 years old. I started this journey at 29. I finally decided to live a healthier life. See below, the start of my journey LOL.
5/3/05 9:30pst Appt with Marie Cobar, FNP, she suggested Gastric Bypass and/or Breast Reduction. Stated she didn't know how to go about submitting a referral for Gastric Bypass, for me to find out. 5/11/05 Faxed Marie Cobar,FNP, a letter stating why I wanted this surgery. Marie called writer back stated she will submit referral to my Medical Group.
5/16/05 11:04pst Called Access Medical Group to check status of referral for Bariatric Specialist. Spoke w/ Naomi stated only referral entered was an office visit 5/5/05 to see a GastroEnterologist. Per Naomi it takes 5-10 business days and 24hrs for urgent request to receive referral via mail. 5/16/05 Called Maria/ works for Dr. Malone office (my PCP)informed there are two Teresa Smith's. Per Maria she would informed Eva the manager. 5/16/05 Faxed ltr to Marie Cobar informing her of my concern of mixing information up with another Teresa Smith. 5/17/05 Called Maria/Dr. Malone's office unknown name stated she was busy.
5/17/05 4:47pst Called Blue Shield spoke with Jennifer explained my concern, she called Maria/Dr Malone she stated "they're having a internal issue" Eva quit, Maria is now doing authorizations. 5/18/05 11:38pst Called LivLite-made reservations to attend seminer 5/24/05 in Hawthorne, spoke w/ Patricia.
5/18/05 11:47 Called Chris/ Daniel Freeman/Centinela Wt Loss Program- Free Seminer 6/4/05 @10. Will send package in mail. 5/18/05 4:20pst Called Dr. Malone's office spoke w/ Tara took message down. 5/18/05 4:24pst Called Acces Medical spoke w/Naomi stated there are two Teresa Smith's the older Teresa Smith termed with Access. Explained to her I have received two authorization ltr's for another Teresa Smith for services that I do not need. Per Naomi they only entered what the doctors office request.
5/19/05 4:12pst Called Blue Shield spoke w/ Chris first stated I would have to change PCP/Medical Group . Explained to him I like my current PCP. He got off the phone to get advice, returned stating, my PCP would have to make referral to my medical group, if no Bariatric Surgeon available I may have to be referred to an out of network Surgeon because there is no in network. I would not be held responsible because my Medical Group doesn't have a Bariatric Surgeon, but it must be a Surgeon thats contracted with Blue Shield.
5/20/05 11:49pst Called Access spoke with Naomi stated if there is no Bariatric Specialist in the medical grou,p Access will search for one or PCP can make referral for one that I want, if its medically necessary then I might have to see an out-of-network provider.
5/23/05 4:18pst Called Marie at MDO informed Marie is no longer doing referrals for Weschester office must call Tara/Lisa at Dr. Malone's office.
5/23/05 4:20pst Called Dr. Malone's spoke w/Tara stated Lisa was not doing referrals today. They are returning calls for referrals tomorrow. Lisa will call writer back tomorrow or the next day. 5/25/05 5:15pst Called Dr. Malone's office spoke w/Tara, stated Lisa has left for the day but she did give her my message.
5/26/05 9:22pst Called Dr. Malone's office spoke w/ Lisa she stated she just started doing referrals Monday. Eva who is no longer with them did not put the authorizations in the charts. Per Lisa she has to do the referrals as the members call to check status. She has to call the insurances to find out if Eva put the referrals in because she has some patients, but its not documented anywhere. 5/26 9:30pst Called Access Medical Group spoke w/Naomi stated there is no referral on file for my Bariatric consult.
5/27/05 1:03pst Called Dr. Malone's office spoke w/Tara stated Lisa called referral into medical group, will call once she hears from them. 5/31/05 Called Access spoke w/Naomi who stated request is still pending review. It can take up to 5-10 business days. Can try back Wednesday.
6/1/05 11:50pst Called Access spoke w/Naomi stated request is still pending, will print request out to see what the hold up is. Can try back Friday. 6/1/05 2:16 pst Spoke with my HR dept informed them of my issues, she stated when open enrollment comes in August she will make sure to ask the agent about Bariatric surgery and explain how important it is to be a covered benefit.
6/3/05 Called Access spoke w/Naomi stated a consultation at UCLA was denied, not medically necessary.
6/4/05 I rejoined Weight Watchers for the 4th time. Making sure I have all my eggs in a row.... is that correct :> 6/6/05 Called PCP spoke w/Tara scheduled appt for 6/13/05 at 2:00pm to discuss denial, weight, etc.
6/7/05 Received Denial letter, spoke with Naomi at Access stated PCP can resubmit or appeal through Blue Shield. It appears PCP did not submit weight or BMI. This is what the letter reads: Based on the information provided patient does not meet established guidelines for Office consultation at this time. The clinical information indicates that a consult for bariatric surgery does not meet Access Managed Care criteria at this time. Criteria for bariatric surgery is patient must have diagnosis of morbid obesity defined as a body mass index greater than 40, or greater than 35. When co-morbities are present, including but not limited to hypertension,obstructive sleep apnea or diabetes. Your records do not indicate diagnosis of morbid obesity defined as a body mass index greater than 40, or greater than 35. When co-morbities are present including but not limited to hypertension, obstructive sleep apnea or diabetes, therefore this request is denied. Please contact your Primary Care Physician for further assistance. I am Hot. Are these ppl on CRACK!!!!!!!!!!! I am a nurse how can you deny someone just because there was no weight documented on the consultation referral. Does anyone pick up the phone anymore, Hellooooooo.... how much does this patient weigh... it must be a reason why this consult is needed. Whats so crazy is that "these medical groups" do not care. Insurances give these entities power to cut down on man power. "Its not our issue" their only concern is getting that premium paid. OM gosh damn it LOL.
6/8/05 I went to see Dr. Korman at Daniel Freeman(free consult) He is so approachable. He really is concern about your overall welfare. He did not disappoint me at all. He told me I was definately a candidate. He said I was very knowledgable about the surgery. He asked me to be patient while my insurance issues are resolved. His insurance rep Marie will continue to do some research for me. I still have the option to appeal or have my PCP resubmit to the medical group. I have called her two days, she has not called me back. I will give her until Friday :< 6/9/05 I have called my PCP office all week no return calls. I called Blue Shield asked who do I file the grievance with. I spoke w/ Jessica, a request for an appeal documented , can take 30 days. I can call Monday to speak to a rep they will discuss my case. She suggested I have my PCP resubmit request to my medical group for a Bariatric Surgeon,to include all the information needed.
6/9/05 Faxed letter to PCP office, got a returned call stating my Medical Group did not deny me because of lack diagnosis or BMI but because of no co-morbidities. WTF what is back pain, knee pain, SOB, unsteady gait, urinary stress incontinence, breast pain (because there so DAMN BIG lol)feet pain, edema. She had the nerve to say she doesn't resubmit to my medical group for me to go through the appeals process. WTF..... this is crazy. Well my journey has been a month +. Wish me luck. Switching to PPO in Sept. 6/10/05 Called Blue Shield spoke w/Eric he updated my grievance with what my PCP said and that she is not going to resubmit. I have mailed off my appeal letter. I will wait to hear from them. I am sure this will be interesting battle. But a battle I refuse to get a headache over. I will get the surgery either by Blue Shield or another insurance carrier
6/11/05 I received the Morbid Obesity Surgeries and Guidelines Patient Selection Guidelines: Blue Shield of California * Morbid Obesity is defined as a Body Mass Index (BMI) of >40kg/m2, where BMI = weight(in kilograms)/ (in meters) squared. Less severly obese patients(BMI 35-40 kg/m2) with high-risk conditions such as life threatening cardiopulmonary conditions, sleep apnea, uncontrolled diabetes, and hypertension may be considered for sugery. *Patients seeking therapy for severe obesity for the first time should be considered for treatment in a non-surgical program with integrated components of a dietary regimen, appropriate exercise, and behavioral modification and support. * Gastric restrictive or bypass procedures could be considered for well informed patients with acceptable operative risks. *Patients who are candidates for surgical procedures should be selected carefully after evaluation by multidisciplinary team with medical, surgical, psychological, and nutritional expertise. *The operation should be performed by a surgeon substantially experienced with the appropriate procedures and working in a clinical setting with adequate support for all aspects of management and assessment. *Lifelong medical surveillance after surgical therapy is recommended. 6/13/05 Seen by my PCP, I got weighed and vitals taken. She asked me about my diet. She made sure she documented me going to Weight Watchers and my work-out at Curves. She also documented my knee pain. I am scheduled to have a Bilateral Breast Ultrasound 6/24/05 to r/u Breast Cancer....yikesssssss.. seriously I have been having excruciating breast pain... so my doctor ordered this test. I will keep you updated.
6/14/05 Received ltr from Blue Shield stating they received my grievance 6/9/05. Will notify me of their decision x 30 days.
6/21/05 Hello everyone... its been a few days. I received another letter from Blue Shield saying they received my written grievance. I called to make sure my appeal starts from 6/9/05 not 6/14/05. Per Jessica at BS she stated they combined the appeals, someone closed my first appeal, but someone caught it, added it to my written appeal (coocoo) Well I have a case manager Celeste Pelayo, I called and left her a message, to date no call back.
6/24/05 Well lets see.... I have my breast ultrasound today.The tech was so shocked at my breat size she didn't know what to do. I had to stand up to have the ultrasound. I have been having breast pain for awhile; its getting worse. I wear a 58 I so you can imagine what will happen to me :( can we say sagging after I lose my weight. I had large breast before the weight gain. The tech kept saying "your doctor has to do something about this. She can write something up... you have nothing but breast tissue, this isn't FAT!" LOL Well I will wait to to see what my PCP says because it possible she will try to get me a breast reduction which was the original plan before my WLS journey. This has been an adventure.
6/25/05 I went to a USC seminar with my hubby... alot of people showed up. Dr. Crookes, Dr. Kathouda and Dr. Sillian were there. Dr. Kaufman was on a family vacation. They were all funny. My hubby was laughing at their jokes. Well its a 750 dollar program fee. USC group will follow you for 5 years. The seminar was so informative. Dr. Kathouda had a animated pictue of the surgery, pics of a fatty liver and how the pouch looks. Then what really cracked me up is when the surgeons were taking questions... a lady asked "Why is it after the surgery people heads are bigger" OMG people were laughing, even the doctors. Dr. Sillian had to answer because doctor Kathouda was laughing. But the answer was because the patient loses weight in the neck so the head is more prominent. Funny shit, huh? Oh yeah weighed in at Weight Watchers down 1 pund. I am trying .........
6/29 Called my Blue Shield CM she stated my appeal is still pending, waiting for my medical records from my Medical Group... so I sit and wait.... it'll be 30 days 7/9/05..... thats next week :(
6/30/05 Received a t/c from Maria at Dr. Korman office to tell me they are still working on my case, wanted to let me know they haven't forgotten about me :) 7/8/05 Maria/Dr. Korman office called to let me know they are still working on my request but d/t to my insurance I have to be the one that initiates everything. Which I have :)
7/11/05 Called my Blue Shield CM she stated my appeal request is with the Medical Director. I will have a letter with his decision in the next few days.
7/14/05 Called my Blue Shield CM, she stated the medical director approved the Bariatric consult at UCLA, not what I wanted but I guess beggers can't be choosey. I would have to fight my medical group to change the provider. A fight I probably could win because there is no Bariatric surgeons in my medical group but I do not have the patience. This insurance process is no joke!
7/15/05 Okay, I misunderstood the authorization of my consult. I received a letter from Blue Shield today that reads: "We are authorizing a bariatric surgical consultaion with a bariatric specialist affiliated with your medical group. If the surgeon determines that you are appropriate for surgical intervention with an approved gastric bypass procedure, Blue Shield will authorize the surgery. Appropriate authorization information regarding the bariatric surgical consultation will be provided to you in the near future" I was shocked. I called my case manager to confirm what the letter read LOL. She confirm once I get the consult and my surgeon states I am a good candidate they will approve. So my journey is progressing more than I thought. She said if I do not want to be seen at UCLA I can ask for a second opinion after I am seen at UCLA or ask to be seen by another provider. She also said there are no affiliated bariatric specialist in the medical group so they may try to have me see a surgeon at a hospital that will accept their rates. Thanks again for the crossed fingers and toes!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
7/28/05 Its been awhile since I last posted. I went to Vegas for my 10th anniversary. I ate so much........ I kinda got sad when I realized that I will not be able to eat as much as I did or that I haven't tried everything... it was weird. But my hubby kept reminding me "you will be able to eat what u want but in moderation". I had a blast... I will be going back this Sat. my co-worker is having a birthday bash out there. So I am going on another road trip. That drive is exhausting. I still have not heard from Blue Shield or my medical group. There is a breakdown somewhere. I am still trying to be patient. I am off to bed. Have a great weekend!
8/1/05 Still having problems with Blue Shield... it seems my case manager did not do what she was suppose to do ... like enter an authorization for my consultation. Also it seems UCLA Bariatric is going through some changes....... I have been calling my case manager x 2 weeks no call back. PreCert Dept has also left her messages. I was informed her supervisor will be notified. This is crazy.... so I wait.......
8/2/05 Today I got intouch with my case manager supervisor Ms. L. Diamond, I left her a "professional" voicemail. 4pm I received a call from her supervisor K. Smith stated my case manager did do what she was suppose to do, she requested the authorization from my IPA 7/13. She is going to look into it further, why its taking this long. 5pm I received a call from Gretchen in PreCert. She's been following up also, she spoke with K. Smith today. My case manager was informed that I have been calling x 2 weeks, she hasn't called me back. Can I say write up please :< .My employer is involved. Our Blue Shield agent is getting involved because it shouldn't take this long. Wish me luck!
8/3/05 I guess persistence pays off. Today, I received a phone call from my case manager at Blue Shield. She provided me with the authorization number. She stated my IPA stated they sent me an auth letter. The IPA approved my consultation at Cedars Sinai not UCLA. But, I felt something just wasn't right.... someone was lying.. so I called my PCP office because I know the IPA notifies them of the approvals too. So my PCP was able to go into their system.... guess what???? the auth letter is dated for todays date, but the auth period is 7/14/05-9/12/05. My PCP emailed me the auth letter. My mouth hit the floor. It seems someone did a CYA job. My stomach acted up all day because of this. I have called them almost everyday, my medical group always told me Blue Shield had not notified them. So, if anyone new is rearching WLS be persistent and do not accept everything the insurance/IPA tells you. Okay moving onto the Great News!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I called Cedars, my consultation is scheduled for August 16th with Dr. Nishe but the surgery will be performed by Dr. Khalili. My packaged will be put in the mail today!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Wish me luckkkkkkkkkkkkk!!!!!!!! :thumpsup: Oh yeah... the authorization is also for the surgery .. if I meet criteria.
8/12/05 I have been calling my medical group for a week to get my auth updated with the physicians correct name and extend the auth date. I have spoken with Naomi, Jamie and Sandra.. three different ppl and it hasn't been done. Consult appt 8/16 Tues.
8/16/05 I had my surgical consult today. It went well. It was quick I have to see the Registered Dietician and the Social Worker. No Psych eval is needed. I won't be able to see them until 9/13/05. In the meantime I have to get my PCP to make the referral to my medical group for the Edoscopy w/ biopsy of the stomach (ouch) and Abdominal U/S. We'll see how long this takes .... my medical group is so slow. I called my medical group, spoke with Jamie, she stated its noted in the system that I have been calling.... why didn't I get the PPO plan...... LOL. MY TOP TEN AFTER WLS: Go to Disneyland Fly on a airplane without worrying about my weight Shop at a normal clothing store Apply for the nursing program Jet skiing Horse back riding Snorkling Breast reduction or lift( whatever is left over after WLS) Camping Attend support meetings
8/23/05 I attended my second support group at Cedars.. what a wonderful group of people.... Julie, Joyce, Pam, Cooky,Brandy... there are more but my mind went blank. I have decided to attend every Tuesday. I feel the more I learn the better off I'll be.
8/24/05 I had an appointment today for my abdominal U/S. Well I get there early 7:45am for a 8am appt. They call me in the back about 8:20am. I go in this little room... the first thing the Tech said, " How much do you weigh". No good morning, blah, blah and blah :). I say " 348 pounds". She saids, "I have to go speak to my supervisor because the table can't hold you". Omg... I waited patiently. They return... they had the nerve to say I should have told them my weight when I was making the appointment. So, you know that made me upset. I am a patient first then a nurse. I told them thats not for me to do. I know I am not the only 300 pounder in America. I am sure it's millions more like me that need ultrasounds. The way they were looking at me was like I was enormous and I was going to break the table. The supervisor tells me they had to do another lady before on the floor, they were not going to do that again. I was upsettttttt. My hubby had to calm me down because when I get upset..... words start pouring out of my mouth. Well a long story short. My PCP has to find me a place to take my 300 pounder behind.
8/24/05 I had my Gastro consult today, that went well. They will call me to schedule an appointment for next week.
8/25/05 My EDG is scheduled Sept 7th.
8/26/05 Well you know me... I am persistent. I called my medical group 8/25, I know the girls there. They know my voice LOL. Sandra there put in a STAT request. Well I was off from work today because I was at the hospital with my sister ( she had a C-Section). My medical group called and left me a v/m saying I am to go to Tower Imaging in Beverly Hills. Cool. I called Tower, made an appt for next week 8/31 Hollaaaaaaaaaaaa. And yes they can accomadate me LOL. 8/27/05 Trip... I received my written auth for my Abd U/S in the mail from my medical group... talk about STAT. Now I know they can do things fast I will make sure I stay on them when my surgeons office submits for the surgery.
8/31/05 I FINALLY GOT MY ABDOMINAL ULTRASOUND DONE. I want to thank everyone for being so supportive when I was down. Tower Imaging was so kind to me. Its a beautiful place. They had gowns that fit :). The tech took his time. I guess with MO the adipose tissue is so thick the organs are hard to view. So I am happy. Next week is my endoscopy then the following week is my RD and social worker appt. Hopefully I will be on the loser side by Nov.
9/6/05 I went to PCP so my hubby could get a TB test... my daughter is starting school and its require. While were there I asked for a copy of my U/S. My doc didn't have a copy. They had to call over town to get it. Thats why persistence and being proactive pays off. Finally they got a copy faxed over. I have a single gallstone... everything else normal.
9/7/05 I had my EDG, showed I have a Hiatal Hernia... thats just great. I never fell asleep. I was relaxed but I was able to feel the scope... well I had my gag reflex... I guess that nasty spray didn't work LOL. Everything else was normal. Now I have to wait for my Biopsy results.
9/8/05 I think I was incorrect. I did fall asleep but I just don't remeber. When I woke up thats when the doc was pulling the scope out. My friend told me when he got scoped they gave him Ativan and afterwards a Rx for Vicodin LOL. Who knows........he's crazy so I can never believe him......
9/10/05 I am still having discomfort from the Endoscopy :( I went to Cedars Sinai WLS Seminar today. Very informative. My surgeon, RD, LSW and the Bariatric Coord was there. I found out Cedars does surgeries daily. They have done 1400 cases but they did have a patient that died 1 month post op from a massive heart attack unclear if related directly to surgery. My surgeon told me the hiatal hernia I have will not affect my surgery. If they need to fix it they will. Thats another thing I like about Cedars is there surgeons are also trained in Critical Care... meaning if something happens to me and they have to respond I wouldnt have to be transfer to ICU to be seen by another doctor(s). So.... Tuesday I have my RD and Psych Eval then I wait.
9/20/05 Its been awhile ... I have completed all my pre ops... had a snag but of course I took care of it. I had to do things for myself. I do not wait for my PCP office to take care of anything. I got my own labs, etc and faxed them to Cedars.... can you say aggressive .... but in a good way. I have met another preop cool as hell. We hope to schedule our surgeries the same day or around the same time. WLS should not be this difficult. Hopefully things will get easier and better for others in the future...... Oh yeah I am feeling much better. I guess it was a side effect from the EDG.
10/1/05 Wassup my peeps its been a minute. Well... I 've been waiting and waiting..so you know me I called Cedars and left a message for Cynthia. I was told by my girl Julie she will call back; well she did at 6:30pm the same day. She said she sent my auth request to my PCP and the medical group in case the auth has to come from my PCP. She said this way it will be faster...holla. Do the damn thang girl. I also found out my Nurse Practitioner moved to Arizona... I was upset but I can't let that get me down but she was so supportive with me getting WLS. anyways... to the next time. Stay safe. I have a new friend I met at my support meeting and she is having surgery 10/10 please post to her support page http://beta.obesityhelp.com/morbidobesity/members/status.php?N=C1126728790
10/4/05 Hollaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa I was approved within 24hrs. My PCP submitted the request for surgery today and I was approved today. I found out by accident. I had a doctors appt today, while I was there the nurse printed out her daily auth letters from the medical group. She provided me a copy. I still didn't get it. She said wow that was fast. I was like huh??? She was like you were approved. I was shocked. After my appt I called my medical group to make sure LOL... guess what... it was approved. I have 2 months to get it done. I am hoping for early November.
10/6/05 Well I have won the lottery... my surgery is scheduled for 11/16/05. I could have had it 11/2...but I got scared. My stomach start turning... it was not a pleasant feeling. My surgeon only does surgery every 1st and 3rd week of the month. This gives me a 1 month plus to get my house in order. Patience does pay off.
10/15/05 Its been a minute. I am starting to realize my surgery is around the corner. My preop is 11/11/05. I am going to take 3 weeks off at work. I think I am going to try the Nectar product. I'll do better on a "juice like" product. I calculated... I will be on my menstrual during my surgery :(. WHYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY LOL. It will be my last day. I visited a OH member that had surgery at Cedars Sinai. I am happy I did. She is such a sweet heart. I will continue to check up on her. We have to support others going through this journey because its not easy.
10/17/05 I received a call from Cynthia@Cedars asking me if I do not mine if my time for my surgery was changed to 1:15pm. I am like... okay... what the hell... like I had a say. She told me my doctor- Dr. Nishi) has blocked times to do his surgeries which is 1:15pm every 1st and 3rd Wednesday. My friend is at 10:15. Cynthia said well it might be earlier if they finish early. I am like; what is that suppose to do...make me feel better. If you give ppl times to choose from do not call them later to change them. I will be complaining. This is not the first thing they have done to make me wonder what the hell are they doing over there. Do not mistake my venting for ungratfulness . I have no choice because Dr. Nishe can not do the surgery without Dr. Khalili, so he needs his experience.
10/18/05 Okay I will be the first to admit when I am wrong... well just a little bit. After discussing my disgust with Cedars with some friends, I was encouraged to pray and remain calm when I called Cedars to complain. Well I called Cynthia she was so understanding. I told her how I felt. She immediately assisted me. She allowed me to change my time back and drumroll((((()))))) Dr. Khalili will be my surgeon. I have nothing against Dr. Nishe but I feel much better with the Dr. Khalili who I wanted from jump street. So, it all worked out but I can't help but wonder if I did not speak up I would have felt PUNKED.
10/30/05 It's been awhile since I last updated. I am doing fine. Getting ready for the big day. I have to get a chest xray and labwork this week. The following week a H&P and then my pre-op appt. I was approved for my family medical leave. A good friend of mines at work was fired..... I realize how much I ate when he was there... its crazy. Now I am back to not wanting to go out to eat or making liquor store runs. Spending 10 dollars a day is expensive. I went to a OH Halloween Party last night; it was so much fun. Well until nest time.
11/7/05 Pre Op testing completed.
11/10/05 What now...... I have a UTI. I have to be on antibiotics for 7 days (Levaquin). My doctor said this is only (precautionary) ...whateva... I am having surgery 11/16/05. I called my surgeons office; the nurse said she'll talk with the surgeon to see if it'll be an issue. I can't take this!!!!!!!!!!!!! Car was crashed into, someone stole my checks, $1300 spent in one month, $400 + the bank owes me for allowing the checks to be cleared .....now this. I am about to scream!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Okay.... I am off to pick the antibiotics up... this will cost me more money LOL. Then I am off to school. Thank you for allowing me to vent.
11/15/05 Okay peeps my time has come. I have taken the antibiotics without any side effects. Thank God! Am I nervous? No...not yet. I am sure it will kick in tomorrow. I have been blessed to have met Julie at my support group. I think that is a huge reason why I have been cool and relaxed. I had alot of trials to get through. October was not my month. So... Julie and I will have our surgery tomorrow. We scheduled it that way hollaaaaaaaaaa. I think we were meant to meet each other. She is truly my sista from another mother. I want to thank my family and friends for being so supportive. My OH fam thank you for listening to my rants. See you on the losers bench !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
11/20/05- My surgery was without any complications. Surgery 11/16/05 discharged 11/18/05/. But, I did have an experience with the breathing tube.... it was not pleasant. I was about to say this is a wrap then the sweet Dr. Nishe came in and put his hands on my chest and spoke softly. He said Teresa, its going to be okay just relax next thing I new I was waking up in the recovering room. Cool. Well I think I was oversedated. I couldn't keep my eyes open but I thank God I was able to wake up. I was not scared. I peed and took a dump 30 min before going in the pre op holding area...so I was straight LOL. I striped down and enjoyed the show of the nursing and the doctors go at it. There were 7 surgeries. I was the first. When they finally rolled me in the OR room I was like its time. The table was not Big Girl friendly LOL. I was like Oh shit will I fall off LOL. But, when they pulled out the arms I was cool. When I got back to the recovering area I was given pain meds around the clock this nurse was not playing. Heparin shot, etc. She was cool. By the time I got back to my room I was oversedated. I couldn't open my eyes. My hubby was there waiting I kept telling him I love him because thats all I wanted to tell him because I do... I know without his stength and support this wouldn't have been easy on me. I am truly blessed to have him in my life. My girl Julie had her surgery right after mines. My hubby was able to meet her and her family- he said they are cool people. So, we are now both losers. It took me awhile to get started, I was so medicated. But once my hubby came back to visit, I got up and walked; no gas just hiccups and peeing alot. My IV infiltrated but it was okay because I caught it. I am glad my nursing skills came in handy. I truly had excellent nurses that I feel really cared about my welfare. I am truly grateful to the Cedars surgeons and staff:Ruthie for being so supportive; she really brighten my day when she came to visit me. I had to tell my other friends to come see me at home because I couldn't remember who I was speaking to on the phone :( Well to next time. Peace. This took alot out of me LOL.
12/4/05 Its been a minute since I last posted. Well things have been okay for me. I do have trouble getting all my water and protein in. I am walking about 20-30 min per day. I am trying something new. I am sippin water every 2 minutes to see if this will help. I have to try more of a variety of food. I was the same way pre op. I am very picky. By looking at me you wouldn't know LOL weighing 300+ lbs. I eat eggs, yogurt, Taco Bell pinto and cheese, mashed potatoes, thicker soups, tuna fish. I am trying. My hubby continues to be supportive without him I am sure this wouldn't have been a smooth ride like it has.
1/2/06 Hello Fam! It's been a minute. I am doing fine. Tolerating food and learning alot more about my new "anatomy". I have no regrets. I have to buy different vitamins..the Optisource Vitamins are not providing me what I need. My homie Julie takes Centrum chewables; I think I might try. I will start taking my B12 also. The Optisource is suppose to have everything in it...yeah right... Tomorrow, I will start back walking, but at the gym. I had stopped once I started back at work because I would be exhausted after work. I was looking foward to taking a nap when I got home. I am going to purchase a MP3 player to listen to while I am at the gym on the treadmill. I have claim this year as going to be the best year of my life. I will be finishing up my classes at school, losing weight and going to the Essence Music Festival. My friend and I have been planning for 6-7 years. This year is going to be the year! I hope everyones New Year goes at plan. I am not setting to many goals because I feel it set you up for failure. I promise to write more often. Happy New Year!
3/15/06 Hello Fam! Its been awhile. I am in school so I have been very busy with that. I try my best to make it to my support meetings because my extended family is there. I have been able to eat without any problems. I have to increase my water intake. I am taking my vitamins. This week has been somewhat difficult. NO ENERGY. I haven't been able to work out :(. I am losing 2-3lbs per week. Everyone comments on my weight at work. My hubby told me this is the happiest he has seen me in 10 years. Holla. To next time. I promise to update more often. I know our profiles can be inspirational to preops. I least owe them that because I was once nervous, scared, confused, etc when I was thinking about WLS.
6/11/06 Its been awhile .... I've been doing great. I finished my last pre req class- anatomy/physiology. It kicked my butt. I do read post daily to stay in the know. I have no complaints. Well I did have an episode of passing a large bowel movement. Omg it was enormous lol. First time eating bread and I think I ate several things that day. Went to a social gathering had alcohol. Well the alcohol pushed everything out of me the next day. I was on the toilet almost 2 hrs. No joking. I was sweating, I stripped down (butt naked) I was hyperventilating...Oh my lol. My hubby kept checking on me. My legs were shaking. I had to stand up a few times because I couldn't believe this was happening to me lol. When I finally went..lets just say I never seen anything like it. I am a nurse I've seen plenty. But, nothing like this. It was a big I mean big boulder lol. I can laugh now but I was crying then. It had to weigh 2-3 lbs LMAO. Well enough about "my incident". This is a caveat, DO NOT GRAZE, CONTROL YOURSELF IN SOCIAL SITUATIONS AND NO ALCOHOL (INCREASE FLUIDS). I have lost 100lbs already. I can eat what I want. I try my hardest to choose wisely. My dumping is passing out after eating carbs. I do not dump off of sugar :(. I wish I did sometimes. I walk and work out at Curves. I have to increase my exercise because my doc said my weight might start to slow down and for me not to be alarm. I think I look good. I have sagging skin but nothing to cry over. I shop at Ross. I come up on deals. I have to wear office attire at work so I buy my clothes from there cheap. I wear size 20 in pants from 26/28 and 30's. 2x shirt from 30/32. People say I look good. I be working it in my platforms. I am more active. Going to a concert in June, son and daughter are graduating, throwing a BBQ in July and I'm going to Essence Music Festival in Houston in July. Before, I would have felt overwhelmed. Well to next time peeps.
6/17/06 I passed Anatomy/Physiology with a B. I am finish with my pre reqs. I am going to start my nursing classes soon. Its getting hot. I have to definitely start getting in my water. I recently realized this will be my first summer in 8 years that I am under 300 lbs. I am so happy. I am in the 240's. I have decided not weigh myself every week. Check out my picture trail. Well to next time. Oh I almost forgot. Have you tried the new 100 calorie Doritoes? OMG so good. This helps me control myself :). Please not I am not encouraging anyone to try them;)
6/25/06 Happy B day to my son. He is 13 years old today. I feel old lol. He will be in the 9th grade in September. I went to PowerHouse Concert- I told my hubby this will be the last hip hop concert we go to. I'm getting to old for this sh** lol. I looked cute. I wore camouflauge courtesty of Ross Store LMAO. I tripped out because I was able to fit in the seats at the Anaheim Stadium-no spilling out the chair like before. I walked down the stairs without fearing of falling down because of my big breast pulling me forward. My hubby said guys were looking at my breast. Crazy how weight loss can change how ppl look at you. Next week I am off to Houston to the Essence Music Festival. I am so excited! As far as my weight goes I am still losing weight. My abdomen has went down so much. I have the body I remembered 10 years ago. But, I think I look better now because I am maturer and I know how to dress. Back then I was young,;sweat pants and a tshirt was my gear. To next time..........
7/29/06 Hey fam! I went to the Essence Music Festival and had a blast. My friends ppl treated me as if I was part of the family. My first plane ride was cool. I was able to fit in the seat without any problem and no belt extender. Holla. I finally felt like I fit into society. No stares...I just had fun. My hair was cute and my wardrobe was just as cute lol. I was able to eat as if I never had the surgery. It was weird. We were eating maybe once or twice a day because the concerts ran so late. By the time we got back to the hotel and had 8-9 hrs of sleep it was lunch time. I made sure I drank plenty of water and took my vitamins. Oh I didn't forget about taking my Colace at night. I didn't want to be constipated while on vacation...I know TMI. But...I must be real with my fam. Well I returned home to no weight loss...of course I was nice and upset. I got back on track. First week back home I lost 2.6lbs then the following week I lost 3.4 lbs. Tomorrow I am going bike riding with my fam. I am too excited for words. Its been a minute since I have been on a bike. I was in my 300's I know that lol. Tire appeared flat when I was on the bike. Hopefully not this time but if it does I will still be okay. My current weight is 239 lbs. I am wearing 18/20 pants... I can still fit in 22's. My skirts are 18's. My shirts 18/20-22/24 depends on the style. I can fit 1x-2x shirts. I have booty so my pants have to be a little bigger. Who would of known this surgery would leave me with a booty lol. I must take pics in case I lose my butt. I need proof. I never had a "big butt" when I was younger. It was alright lol. I am walking and doing Curves. I try to drink 60+ oz of fluid a day. I get 60 or more gms of protein. This week I thought I did good I lost . 8. I usually have big losses after my menstrual but not this month. My hubby think its water retention and muscle gain from exercising. I am glad I have him as my biggest fan. Last week I was down because I made some bad food choices. I emailed a friend that I met at my support group. She emailed me back a few times. Her emails really lifted my spirits. I will always be grateful.... I needed that support. She was honest with me. Its so wonderfull to be able to talk to someone who knows how you feel. So...thank you Pammy. I love you girlie. I will be biking at Venice Sunday:) Well fam to next time. School will be starting back soon. I hope to be able to update every month. My plans for the remaining 06...be healthy and have fun. One love...T
8/6/06 I was recently discharged from the hospital after going to the ER x 2 and having to have emergency surgery. Tuesday morning I drank my hot tea like I do every morning. Immediately I felt severe gas like pain...omg I thought. I took two GAS X. My pain got worst. I was at work. I went to the bathroom. I did have a BM and then I became severly nauseated. I started to have the foamies. Omg.... I then walked to Rite Aid to get more GAS X. I returned to worked with my stomach in knots. I went back to the bathroom; had the throw up warm salvia/foamies again. I came out the bathroom and my boss immediately stated omg you have to call your husband to take you to the doctor. I called my surgeons office on the way..I get the foamies again. While I am on the phone with my surgeons office I am vomiting and peeing on myself because of the force. I go to the ER. That was not a pleasant visit. It was too many ppl. I finally get to see the nurse. I tell them what happen. I get a xray/Ct Scan and U/S of abdomen/vaginal. I continue to throw up foamies. I get Dilaudid and Reglan. I was out. My O2 Sats fell to 54% not good. So, I needed O2. My pain went away of course because of the pain meds. I was sent home with a Dx of a cyst on my ovaries. Now wth does a cyst on my ovaries have to do with L side adbdominal pain. The next day- Wednesday I call off from work because I feel like crap. I go see my PCP. He laughs at the Dx. I go give 8-10 tubes of blood. I had to give urine so I drank some water omg the pain. Early in the morning I was able to eat a yogurt. I go home and eat watermelon. Omg the pain was worst than Tuesday. I go back to the ER. This time the drama starts. I fainted in the ER bathroom. I was breathing so heavy it caused my face and legs to go numb. I was crying, I was disoriented, I was dyhyrated, I was in pain..the list goes on. Again, thay give me my favorite cocktail. The ER doctor that saw me before saw them wheeling me in. He immeditely said omg I saw her last night. He came in and brought another doctor in. They immediately worked on me and they apologized. I had another CT scan but with iodine and a xray with GI contrast(yuk) I am finally admitted with Dx cyst on ovaries. Next day Thursday.... I saw three doctors..didn't know wth was wrong with me really ..they said my cyst ruptured and I had fluid in my pelvic wall. The pain was getting worst. The doctors kept saying it was a gyncelogical(sp) issue. They requested my GYN come see me. Someone was trying to pass me along :'(. My GYN finally called Friday saying yeah you have a cyst but it didn't burst. He came to visit me. He was hottttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttt. He said this is some lazy sh** going on. My GYN is from the old school. I was rolling. He put a note in my chart. 5 mins later a fellow from my surgeons office comes in saying we have to operate I was like wtf. They got a second opinion ...drumroll(((())))) I had a internal hernia with a twisted bowel. It was showing up on the CT Scan. The Radiologist noticed my bowel was distended. Emergency surgery at 4:30. They had my sign consents for "exploritory lapracopic" blah blah. But, my surgeon told me he already new what it was. I know this is a long story. This story is very important because I am 9 months out. Its just a friendly reminder that we are still at risk for complications. If you are a preop you need to do your research. You need to be prepared for anything. I do not regret my decision. I was well prepared for the surgery and any complications. I think thats why I was so calm. All the nurses were surprise of my reaction. Well I am home now recovering. I have a lop sided abdomen and pain. They were able to use my RNY incision sites. My GB doc preformed my surgery. I am fortunate enough that my surgeon was able to do it. Right after he did 4 surgeries and ran clinic that day he came down brush my hair back and said Teresa I am going to make you all better. I love that man. I am on Lortab elixir for pain. My hospital stay was uneventful. The staff were wonderful. The hospital was clean. I love Cedars Sinai Medical Center. If you live in Cali I am sure your familiar the hospital. I am also fortunate that I have insurance because if I didn't ...I don't want to think about it. I apologize in advance for any grammical errors- like run on sentences, etc. I was typing away before I took my cocktail lol. 8/10/06 Update- I am still in pain but better.... I take my "cocktail" at night only to help me sleep. Lortab is powerful has me hearing things at night. Current weight 233.4 I've lost the water weight. I went up to 242 while in the hospital. My appetite has returned :(. The surgeon didn't mess with my pouch so eating is not a problem but drinking is somewhat uncomfortable. I still have gas. Walk, walk and walk! My abdomen isn't distended and hard. Actually my abdomen is flatter....I wonder if he did lipo LMAOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO. Well I will be off of work until 8/28. I should be strong as a horse by then :). Caveat: please do not ignore any pain.
8/13/06 I went fishing with the fam today and got sunburned lol. My cheeks are rosey. It was great to get out. I had fun. I fell asleep while chilling in my camp chair so comfy :). I caught one fish. My son caught 15. We have to do it again before the summer is over and I am stronger. Onto WLS news- well for some strange reason I believe I had a hernia prior to surgery. Maybe I had it... my surgeon missed it...who knows. My surgeon told me I would lose more weight now...did he do something different to me or were my "pipes" dirty...now things are flowing better lol. My current weight 229. I still have 3 months to go before my year.I'm trying yall. I have to chant to myself you must stay active :)
8/21/06 Hey fam! I'm feeling much better but still sore :(. Check out my new profile pic. Wow 9 months has really done your girl well lol. I haven't notice the weight loss in my face until this pic was taken. I went to Kevin A's Last Supper 8/18. I had a blast. I met some really cool folks. Kevin has alot of support. This brings me to my next statement. I hope whoever reads my profile realizes the support this board is too many people included myself. This outing has boosted my confidence to try new things. I've made alot of excuses on why not to go places. I try to drag my hubby along so I won't feel alone. He is not that sociable when it comes to WLS related events ...he always says thats your thingy-go have fun lol. So, I have promise myself no more. If I want to do something I will just do it....solo. I have a car and I have a good paying job...those two things should allow me to roll out when I want. But, I can't neglect the hubby lol. I don't want to be a divorced post op lol.
8/25/06 Went to Tu Tu Cafe for Lupe's last supper. I had a blast. I love meeting ppl. I don't know what my next event will be...you'll have to wait and see!
8/27/06 Ok fam I am going back to work tomorrow. Damn it. I never look at my horoscope but tonight I saw something.... Sagittarius Daily extended (by Astrology.com) It's time for you to follow your urge to get more social! Find out what opportunities there are for you to get out and get a bit wild. Make some phone calls and find out if anyone in your group is feeling the same itch. It might be a perfect time to plan that big weekend event you've been tossing around in your head for a while. Whatever you're in the mood for -- dancing, dining or hiking -- should dictate your itinerary. Check for flight bargains and consider a group trip. Now is this telling me something....... I guess I have to wait and see. I did have fun while I was on my "vacation". I am still in pain but its manageable. To next time. Peace!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
9/2/06 Hey fam. Well my pain is gone. I started back walking. Walking does work lol. No more muscle pain and my abdomen has gone down. I am down 127lbs. My goal for this month is to increase protein, exercise and water. I looked in the mirror last night before going walking...I got nauseated because I was looking at a person I haven't seen in 10+ years. Gosh my life feels like it has blown by but no more! I was able to wear my hubby's tshirt last night and it was kinda big LOL. I was wearing big clothes to work out...he was like you look crazy. I was wearing a 4x shirt and 3x jogging pants to work out LMAO. I did look crazy but last night I really felt normal on the track. I can remember when I use to wear my hubby clothes back in the day. I use to wear tshirts/jogging pants and whatever fly ass sneaker that was out. That was my wardrobe. Can you say tomboy lol. I will be going to Magic Mountain 9/29..can't wait. My goal is to lose 10lbs by then. We'll see. Oh ...I finally am going on a business trip. I missed so many over the years because I would use my weight as an excuse. I've lost weight and I don't want to lose my job lol.
9/16/06 Today I am 10 months post op. Two surgeries later and I feel great. I did the protein train this week. I lost 6.2lbs. I am down 132lbs in 10 months. I am so ecited. I couldn't believe it when the scale read 219.2. I received alot of compliments at work this week especially Friday when I wore some fitted jeans. People were saying I was skinny and that I was wasting away. Can you believe that sh** LOL. I was contacted by a OH member recently. She expressed that my profile was detailed. We talked for awhile. I got from our conversation that as members of this site it can be very helpful if our profiles were more personal. Who knows who you'll be helping. Im not saying personal things about your life....just a little something about your WLS journey. I am trying my best to update mines as much as possible. Anyways 13 more days until Magic Mountain...can't wait. Until next time fam. Peace!
10/1/06 Good morning. Today I am extremely tired. I've been spreading myself thin and its caught up with me. My weight loss is holding steady. I currently weigh 218. 133lb lost in 10+ months. I am pleased with my results. Confession: I've been eating things I shouldn't. I noticed I can eat bread, tortillas, crackers, candy, etc no problem. Well I had half of a hamburger with bun... I ate it so fast because I was in a rush well it felt like my chest was going to pop. I noticed I had an increase of saliva...I was so uncomfortable. I have noticed I don't chew my food like I use too. Somethimes swallowing big pieces. I have to slow down because it feels like food is getting stuck. My stomach has been hurting for 3 days. I was going to the bathroom but I felt like I needed better results...I know TMI. I have to let my readers now the real deal. Well I took some Smooth Move Tea. Omg when I say this stuff works. I was full of SHIT! I am telling you this because we think going to the bathroom daily...we're not constipated...well I am here to tell you...you may be full of shit. I was feeling bloated, nauseated and sluggish..all I needed was good results..and I got them. I was traumatize when I saw the results. But I feel much better knowing I'm somewhat cleaned out kinda scary. Goal Met: I went to Magic Mountain Friday. I was able to walk and get on the rides...No problem. I didn't feel like the biggest person in the park. I still have big breast but not as big as before. So I got on the rides like a normal person. It was so weird. I had a blast. My WLS sister-Julie went with me. We bought a cheese burger combo- 10.99. We split the cost and the meal. Well this is when I ate too fast. The hamburger was so good and the fries. She noticed immediately something was wrong with me. She kept asking are u alright. The saliva was pouring out my mouth. I'm so happy she was there. Because she destracted me...because I was going to start panicking because I was so uncomforatble. I had another WLS sister there too, Ms Regina and my dude-in-law Mr. Ari I love them girls! The caveat here is to always remember your status while out in public. Sit down and focus on your meal. Got dang it...take the bun off lol. Well until next time. I'm off to drink my delicious protein shake. Love.......
10/27/06 Hey fam! Checkin in to report I'm doing much better. I did get carried away on the mini snickers...but I have recovered. I've been really stressed out because of the lay off at work. It hasn't affected me directly but indirectly because I have ex co-workers without jobs. I think it bothers me so much because I know their personal stories. Next month will be my 1 year anniversay. Wow! time flys when your having fun.I'll be sure to update you next month. My current weight is 216 and I'm wearing a size 16. I'm doing aerobics twice per week and walking. I need to work on my water intake. My window is closing. I want to lose 7lbs by 11/16. Cross your fingers and toes for me.
10/30 Okay peeps...went to Club Hush this Friday and had a blast. My WLS brother Gus came out...that dude is so cool. Well I'm down another 2lbs..214 holla. I uploaded some new pics of me. I need to upload some body images but my digital camera is trippin. But, I do have some pics from Philly that I will post soon. TTFN. Luv~ T
11/12 Well...where do I start. I've went to Magic Mountain again. I had a blast. Check out my photo section. I've been clubbin at Club Hush on Fridays. Last night I checked out the club I'm having my birthday celebration at. It was crackin lol. I went to a OH BAF mini meet and greet yesterday. That was cool. I'll be slowing down because Christmas is coming. I'll be in Vegas 12/22-12/24. I want to go to Disneyland but its too expensive. Going to Disneyland is one of my mini goals. Anyways I'm going to lay down....still tipsy from the Adios lol. Oh my current weight is 213.6. I'm no longer going up and down. Two more pounds...I'll meet my goal I made for myself. Stay tuned:) Wait how could I forget...I'll be a year out next week 11/16. Party time LOL.
11/16/06
