joiousone
6-16-07
Hello!
It's more than just weight gain, it's my health and appearance too. I have been battling weight since 1999, when I discovered I had high blood pressure and acid reflux disease. I had an ulcer in 1999. I wonder if it could possibly be the medication I am taking for my high blood pressure and acid reflux disease that may make me gain weight. Back then I was a size 12 and now I am a size 18/20. I am miserable and depressed and this has a major impact on my life. I also have sleep apnea along with gallbladder & urology problems, as well. I have been single for the last 6 years. I have tried many different things to lose weight. I have done everything there is possible to lose weight. I have been trying to lose weight for over 6 years now. In the past I have been to a thyroid specialist to try and discover why such a rapid weight gain and nothing was ever resolved. I have been on 2 different prescription diet pills that cost me a fortune and ONLY lost 6 pounds after several months and spending a lot of money. I have worked out/exercise (stepper & bike for 30 minutes, 4 nights a week) for 8 weeks in the past and did not lose a pound. I want to do something dramatic about my weight. I am interested in considering surgery to help assist me in losing weight if there is a way it could be covered by my health insurance. I feel I have to do something and I need to do something soon. I think that surgery could benefit me and my health conditions. I want to feel better about my health, myself and my appearance.
October 2006 I weight the most I have ever weight at 229! :-(
In March 2007 (5 months later) I weight 220! Some how I lost 9 pounds without even trying. I did change jobs in October 2006 and am much happier at the job I am currently at now. I did have allot of stress at my previous job. I know stress can cause weight gain. Now that I do not have as much stress, maybe that caused me to shed a couple pounds.
Again, I am making another attempt to lose weight. This is a record breaker for me. As of 4-14-07, I have been working out/exercising again. I am using the treadmill (15 minutes), bike (15 minutes) and ab press (4 sets of 20 of 20 pounds) now. I periodically increase the level or pounds when it no longer seems to be a challenge for me. I am working out/exercise 4 days a week (Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday). On Saturday & Sunday I do 30 minutes on the treadmill. I basically do the treadmill for cardio (my high blood pressure). I also have changed my eating habits a great deal and this is the strictest I have ever been. I do NOT consider myself on a diet, because I do not deprive my body of anything it is craving. However, I eat different than I was and I also eat smaller portions. This is the hardest I have ever tried. I eat allot of salads, cottage cheese, fruits and vegetables. I hardly ever cook, so I don't eat allot of meat, unless for lunch or going out to dinner with my family. I cut out soda and drink allot of water and a little bit of juice (diluted with water) and milk. This time I have ONLY lost 5 pounds in 9 weeks. :-( Why is it so hard for me to lose weight?
I am currently learning about my options and how it may be covered under my health insurance. My Cobra health insurance runs out Feb. 2008. I live alone and pay my bills on my own with no help from anyone. I barely live paycheck to paycheck. I am very serious about considering surgery, but would only consider it if it could all be taken care of by my health insurance. I am undecided at this time if I will actually go through with the surgery or not. I am strongly leaning towards it, but I am scared to death. I guess that is only natural, considering I have never had any major surgery.
FRIENDS & FAMILY: I need your support more than anything now!!! I do NOT need any negativity PLEASE!!! I beg of you.
THANKS for taking the time to review my profile. I appreciate it. Take care and be safe.
Updates:
6-18-07: Requested medical records from all my physicians and pharmacies.
6-19-07: I weight 214, since 4-14-07 I have lost a total of 6 pounds
My PCP mailed me a prescription dated 6-20-07 to see a nutritionist. I did not request that. However, I am excited and eager to see how a nutritionist can possible help me. I think the education and knowledge from a nutritionist would do me some good. It's worth a try. The prescription was originally for Wellington (about 30 to 45 minutes away), so I ask their recommendation for someone closer to me, and they did give me a suggestion for a place in Jupiter (about 15 minutes away). Much better. I called there and spoke to a nice lady, she took all my information. She then called me back and notified me that I have a $500 deductible that has not yet been met this year. I was surprised. I have a HMO policy. I pay for my insurance 100% out of my own pocket and that is now $415 a month, as the premium recently increased. There is no way I can pay $415 monthly premium and a $500 deductible at the same time or within the same month. Therefore, I had to deny the treatment.
6-26-07: I weigh 217, some how I gained 3 pounds back. :-(
6-28-07: Neurologist appointment.
7-3-07: I weigh 212, since 4-14-07 I have lost a total of 8 pounds. It's been almost 3 months. This is depressing.
7-10-07: I weigh 210. I actually lost 10 pounds. It is taking forever.
7-17-07: I weigh 213, some how I gained 3 pounds back. There has been allot of family birthdays that come with CAKE!!!
My PCP sent a letter of "predetermination" to UHC for me to be treated by a nutritionist.
7-24-07: I weigh 212. This is ridiculous, as I am on week 15 of dieting and exercising. Why is it so hard for me to lose weight?
7-29-07: I asked my mom to please put together a list of the family's medical history and background for her and dad along with their parents. I also asked my uncle in MI to do this, as well.
7-31-07: I weigh 213. What's going on here?
8-5-07: I sent letters to certain selected physicians asking them to write letters of "medical necessity" for me to get bariatric surgery.
8-7-07: I weigh 215. Ok, I am really getting the urge to want to discontinue my diet and exercise. It is obvious not working. I will continue to work out, but I am NOT sticking to my diet any longer. This is just nonsense. However, I some what enjoy working out.
8-8-07: Received letter from UHC denying treatment with the nutritionist, because it is an EXCLUSION on my policy. Since this is denied, I can almost bet on bariatric surgery being denied.
Received "medical necessity" letter for bariatric surgery from Neurologist (in reference to my sleep apnea). I am excited, nervous and scared all at the same time now.
8-9-07: Both my urologist state that my urology problems are not related to my weight and will not write a medical necessity letter for bariatric surgery. :-(
I found out today that my endocrinologist moved to GA last year and the doctor that took over for her is not willing to write me a medical necessity letter (based on my medical records) even if I were to see him/her. I am so depressed. :-(
8-14-07: I weigh 215.
8-17-07: I received a letter from my therapist (due to my depression about my weight) that she recommends I get bariatric surgery. :-) It does not specify medically necessary. Maybe it will be helpful.
8-21-07: I weigh 214.
8-25-07: I appealed my denial to see a nutritionist. I believe it was previously denied due to "morbid obesity" being the original primary diagnosis. Obesity and morbid obesity always require another diagnosis as primary (I'm a medical insurance biller).
8-28-07: I weigh 215.
9-1-07 to 9-9-07: VACATION!!! NO WORK!!! NO EXERCISE!!! NO DIET!!! LOL!!! Went to MA to visit my best friend.
9-11-07: I weigh 215. No weight gain from vacation. That's great, especially since I am not eating exactly right.
9-25-07: I weigh 219. Thanks to a patient making home made fudge and bringing it to my work place. LOL
10-9-07: Neurologist appointment.
10-30-07: Last day! STOPPED exercise and dieting. My job too hectic due to season.
My COMPUTER CRASHED!!!
HAPPY THANKSGIVING. REMEMBER WHAT THE DAY IS ALL ABOUT AND CELEBRATE THE TRUE MEANING.
11-30-07: Thyroid blood work.
12-5-07: Electrodiagnostic evaluation. Cervical radiculopathy.
12-13-07: MRI of cervical spine without contrast. C3-4 neural foraminal stenosis. C5-6 disc herniation.
Thyroid ultrasound. Bilateral nodules.
MERRY CHRISTMAS. REMEMBER WHAT THE DAY IS ALL ABOUT AND CELEBRATE THE TRUE MEANING.
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HAPPY NEW YEARS!!!
1-1-08: I have new insurance. I have insurance through my employer now. YEAH!!! I have BC/BS now. I only pay $150 a month now instead of $415. BIG difference. However, my copays are higher, but only have to pay them as I need to go to the doctor.
2-5-08: Called BC/BS to see if it was covered to see a nutritionist and/or have bariatric surgery. I was informed they are exclusions on the policy.
3-13-08: My Gastro MD wrote a medical necessity letter for me to have bariatric surgery. I'm still working on getting a letter from my PCP.
4-1-08: My boss asked me about what my plans were for vacation this year. He kept pressuring me, so I was honest and told him I am hoping to have bariatric surgery this summer.
4-3-08: BOTH my bosses consulted me and grilled me with a million and one questions about my decision to have surgery. That was personal and made me feel very uncomfortable. However, I do understand the concern on behalf of the company and business.
4-12-08: I FAXED ALL MY STUFF TO BC/BS!!!! I sent my 2 page letter to ask for approval to have bariatric surgery along with sending my 3 letters from health care professionals recommending I have the surgery, my medical records, family history, exercise tracking log, my prescription list, my diagnoses and etc. They will probably receive it on Monday, 4-14-08. I am also going to put copies of everything I faxed in the mail to BC/BS, just in case. I really wanted a letter from my PCP and I kept putting off sending the information, due to wanting a letter from my PCP, but with what occurred at my job last week, I felt it necessary I get the information out as soon as possible. WISH ME LUCK!!!! PRAY FOR ME!!!!
4-13-08: Since my company is small. I contacted the insurance agent that sold my company the insurance plan. I consulted her and asked her if there's any way possible that I can get bariatric surgery covered under insurance. She replied 4-14-08 and I am extremely depressed now. She stated "BCBS does not pay for such surgery now.. Just recently most carriers have done away with it. I know that when they were covering it...there was a lot the patient had to try first to make sure other avenues wouldn't work. BCBS has discount programs for weight loss through Jenny Craig or Nutrisystem if you are interested, go to www.bcbsfl.com and click on discount programs...then look under weight management. That might help in one area. I am looking to see if there is an exception under BCBS but don't hold your breath! Talk to you soon!". What a bummer. I do not WANT the surgery, I NEED the surgery due to my health conditions. I am so depressed.
4-16-08: I spoke to my insurance agent (the person that sold the BC/BS policy to my company I work for) and she had bad news. She stated that since about 2005 no insurance polices, especially small group policies will cover bariatric surgery. It is not a covered benefit under any circumstances, there are no mentioned exceptions in the policy contract. She stated even if a BC/BS participating doctor pursued it, that it would not get authorized. She stated almost all insurance companies did away with covering bariatric surgery now (since 2005). She stated that most carries did away with it, but there may be a couple large group plans out there on old plans and contracts that may accept it. I have tried so much stuff to lose weight and have been unsuccessful. I felt this was my only option. I am so bummed out and depressed. This really upsets me.
4-16-08: Posted another profile titled "37 and my biggest fear is dying of obesity". Please see the following post.
I have been battling weight gain for several years. My weight gain has a major impact on my life. I have tried 2 different prescription medications to help control my weight gain (my PCP prescribed Xenical 120mg in 2006 and my endocrinologist doctor prescribed Meridia 10 mg in 2001). I also have tried and failed at changing dietary habits and exercise routines. All attempts proof unsuccessful with very little weight lost if any for a period of time.
My current BMI (body mass index) is 36.9 with my height as 5'5” and my weight at 221 pounds. According to a body mass index table/chart, a height of 5’5” and weight of 222 the BMI is 37.
I am aware that my medical illnesses and conditions, such as; high blood pressure, acid reflux disease, GERD, sleep apnea, depression, stomach ulcer/gastric erosion, hiatal hernia, abdominal pain, gastritis, esophagitis, nontoxic multinodular goiter, goiter NOS, enlarged thyroid, nocturnal hypoxemia, abnormal sleep architecture, delayed sleep onset, hemorrhoids and urethral stenosis are all related or caused by obesity. These are all symptoms and conditions on which I had in the past or I still currently possess now.
The scariest thing that I continue to encounter is waking up in the middle of the night gasping for air. I wake up and open my mouth and wave my hands in front of my face trying to get air down into my lungs, but it seems like I cannot get the air into my lungs fast enough. It is extremely scary to stop breathing during the night while sleeping. This is what I personally experience due to sleep apnea. I am also aware that sleep apnea can also cause serious automobile accidents.
I hate the fact that I feel I cannot enjoy my life to it’s fullest because I am continuously fatigue and sleepy at all times, especially during the day. My energy level is extremely low. Due to this daytime sleepiness I am unable to concentrate and focus at work. It also forces me to drink caffeinated beverages (such as; coffee & tea), which I should not have due to my illnesses and conditions. With lack of proper sleep due to my illnesses and conditions, it also causes me to have mood swings. The daytime sleepiness interrupts my day and interferes with my life dramatically on a daily basis. I am always taking naps, especially during the daytime. My naps are not normal like most people lasting a half hour or hour, my naps last a minimum of 2 to 4 hours. It is extremely frustrating. My daytime sleepiness is in result to illnesses and conditions I currently possess.
My obesity has caused me an extreme amount of depression on a regular basis. The depression is based upon a variety of reasons, but mostly in result to my obesity and how frustrated I am with my health continuing to decline. Depression is a medical problem and illness; it is not a personal weakness.
I am also extremely embarrassed by my uncontrollable and unexpected hiccups that occur through out the day (especially at work) as a result to my illnesses and conditions I currently possess. This occurs every day. I had to rearrange my lifestyle due to my heartburn and acid reflux. I have to avoid certain foods (spicy, acidic, tomato-based, or fatty & fried foods like chocolate, citrus fruit & fruit juices) that I enjoyed very much. I am also supposed to eliminate tea, coffee, alcohol, soda, even if it is decaffeinated. However, I do the best I can, but it is hard with being sleepy all the time. Being overweight increases intra-abdominal pressure, which aggravates acid reflux.
I also have experienced a frequent urge to urinate without being able to pass much urine, along with urgent need to urinate and feeling like I cannot completely empty my bladder. I have had to have my urethral dilated twice since 1999. That is the most painful thing I have experienced in my entire life and I hope that I do not have to do that ever again.
I am very unhappy that I now have an additional medication to take in regards to my thyroid.
I have also noticed my glucose level has been high according to previous lab work. This concerns me a great deal, as I could possibly be borderline diabetic. I need to lose weight. I do not want to be a diabetic.
I also want to be able to have a child or children sometime in the future without complications. However, I am now 37 years old.
Do to my obesity, along with my medical illnesses and conditions, I currently have a death sentence. My biggest fear is dying of obesity. My health is constantly failing. I am at a higher risk for heart disease, kidney disease, atherosclerosis, eye disease, diabetes, pregnancy complications, cancer, heart attack, stroke/cardiovascular events and other neurological disorders. It could prolong my life to receive bariatric surgery. My only goal and concern is to be healthier and having bariatric surgery could assist me with achieving that goal. Bariatric surgery could be very beneficial to me by reducing or alleviating the severity of my medical illnesses and conditions along with the bonus to lose weight and improve my energy level, ability to exercise, and self-esteem.
I have done allot of research on the different types of bariatric surgeries and I understand the risks and benefits (both physical and emotional). I also understand and accept the lifetime commitment involved in having the surgery. I am determined to lose weight and improve my health.
Due to the demands of my job and my job being based upon seasonal, I would prefer to have bariatric surgery preformed sometime between April to August 2008.
I believe it would be in the best of interest that my bariatric surgeon and I discuss what type of bariatric surgery is best for me.
I am trying to get the surgery covered under my health insurance, as I live alone and paycheck to paycheck. Since my company is small. I contacted the insurance agent that sold my company the insurance plan. I consulted her and asked her if there way possible that I can get bariatric surgery covered under insurance. She replied and I am extremely depressed now. She stated "BCBS does not pay for such surgery now. Just recently most carriers have done away with it. I know that when they were covering it...there was a lot the patient had to try first to make sure other avenues wouldn't work. BCBS has discount programs for weight loss through Jenny Craig or Nutrisystem if you are interested. go to www.bcbsfl.com and click on discount programs...then look under weight management. That might help in one area. I am looking to see if there is an exception under BCBS but don't hold your breath! Talk to you soon!". What a bummer. I do not WANT the surgery, I NEED the surgery due to my health conditions.
I have medical necessity letters in reference to bariatric surgery from 3 medical professionals. I also have my medical records, family history and etc. Please feel free to contact me if you need any additional information.
You can also check me out (profile and pictures) at www.obesityhelp.com/member/joiousone/
Thank you for your time and concern in this matter. I appreciate it.
4-17-08: I need this surgery so bad that I can taste it. My mouth is watering for it. It is a NEED, not a WANT!!!! I need this surgery to prolong my life and to be healthier.
4-22-08: OMG!!! 
I am soooooooo EXCITED. Finally a dream come true. Is this really happening to me? Mickey Shapiro (Carnie Wilson from the band Wilson Phillips, her Manager) called. They want to sponsor me and have my surgical and hospital fees waived in exchange that I do interviews to inspire other people.
4-24-08: Dr. Marema (bariatric surgeon) on board (willing to waive surgical fees/costs).
General surgeon appointment for hemorrhoids.
4-30-08: Hospital on board (willing to waive hospital fees/costs) per Dr. Marema.
5-1-08: Dermatologist appointment (I have dermatitis).
5-2-08: Talked to Sandy (office manager) with Dr. Marema's office.
5-6-08: Informed my employer about Mickey Shapiro, Carnie Wilson and National TV Outlet.
Gastro appointment (for vomiting).
5-8-08: Talked to Carnie Wilson on the phone from 8:20 to 9:30 PM (her cell phone battery went dead). Talked about surgery (protein, protein, protein, water, 3 meals, no snacks, exercise, walk the same day of surgery, hair loss/Biotin, Myophlex, percentage of successful and unsuccessful surgeries, she offered to sleep over one day of surgery and hold my hand through the process. She also gave me her home and cell phone numbers.
5-11-08: Attempt to inform family (mom, dad, brother, & sister-in-law) about Mickey Shapiro, Carnie Wilson and National TV Outlet.
5-12-08: Received Carnie Wilson's book "I'm Still Hungry" sent to me from Mickey Shapiro.
5-22-08: Carnie Wilson called me, she left me a message at 3 PM. I called and returned her call around 6:30 PM and spoke with her briefly, as she was extremely busy. She helped give me advice with the problems I am having with my mom. My mom is not receptive to me having surgery.
5-23-08: Endoscopy procedure (find out why vomiting). I missed work all day.
5-24-08: Registered on line with US Bariatrics (Dr. Marema's office).
5-27-08: Neurologist appointment (inquired about CPAP).
6-3-08: Picked up Carnie Wilson's book "Gut Feeling". I purchased at Barnes & Noble.
222 lbs. Sleep Study (half night without mask and other half with mask.)
6-9-08: Nuclear medicine hepatobiliary scan w/ CCK (gallbladder test). Trying to find out why vomiting. Gallbladder broken, only works 1%
6-11-08: Gallbladder ultrasound
6-12-08: Gastro appointment (Gallbladder broken, only works 1%).
6-19-08: Cardiologist (inquire about cardio clearance for surgery).
6-23-08: Spoke to Katie with ABC (for 20/20) "phone interview".
6-27-08: Nuclear stress test. ABNORMAL. I missed work all day.
7-3-08: 214 lbs. Cardiologist appointment (abnormal stress test).
Pulmonary appointment (inquire about pulmonary clearance for surgery).
7-7-08: Cardiologist testing at hospital (cardiac catherization). I missed all day of work.
7-8-08: Gastro appointment (follow up). I missed work.
7-9-08: RECEIVED...Cardio Clearance for Bariatric Surgery.
7-15-08: 222 lbs. PFT (pulmonary function test)
RECEIVED...Neurology (sleep study) Clearance for Bariatric Surgery
7-31-08: Chest xray
8-1-08: Consult with Dr. Marema 11 AM *** I AM OFFICIALLY AN ELIGIBLE CANDIDATE FOR BARIATRIC SURGERY! ***
BMI 35.3
BMR 7156 kj
Impedance 52 s
Fat% 47.6%
Fat Mass 101.0 lb
FFM 111.0 lb
TBW 81.5 lb
Desirable Range
Fat % 21 - 33%
Fat Mass 29.5 - 54.5 lb
Pysch. exam with Dr. Kerllenevich 2 to 5 PM
8-21-08: 216 lbs. Pulmonary appointment (follow up from PFT)
RECEIVED...Pulmonary Clearance for Bariatric Surgery.
8-22-08: Cardiologist appointment (follow up, discomfort in groin area)
8-26-08: Groin ultrasound
10-2-08: I lost my job!!! :-( I was there for 2 years. I loved it. They hired a management company to run the company. Therefore, my position as office manager was eliminated. Couldn't help to think that I should not have told them about my plans for surgery.
Applied for health insurance through county, since I am unemployed.
12-4-08: Approved for Health Care District (through Palm Beach County) health insurance for an entire year due to unemployment. Effective until 12/3/09.
12-30-08: Gyn appointment. Annual pap smear.
12-31-08: BC/BS health insurance expired. I had BC/BS for a year.
Azithromycin 250 mg prescription
Now it is just a waiting period. I am waiting to hear from Micky as to when this is actually going to happen.
VERY EXCITING YEAR for me! AWESOME, AWESOME, AWESOME!!!
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1-5-09: 214 lbs. New primary doctor. New health insurance. Check up/physical. Broke tooth/crown 12-14-08. Sick with sore throat, weak, naushea, nasal congestion on 12-31-08.
1-6-09: Blood work.
1-15-09: Ibuprofen 600 MG prescription
2-9-09: 220 lbs. Gyn appointment
2-16-09: 216 lbs. Primary doctor visit.
2-17-09: Protonix prescription
4-1-09: Started a new job! After 6 months of being out of work. Finally! Extreme pay reduction ($4 per hour cut). Now, I am down to $34,320 GROSS per year. I lost more than $6k a year. That is BIG!
4-14-09: 223 lbs. Primary doctor visit and surgeon appointment.
4-17-09: Endoscopy
4-21-09: Gastro appointment
4-22-09: Abdomen ultrasound
4-27-09: Emergency room. Blood pressure elevated. Haven't been feeling well.
Promethazine 25 MG
4-28-09: 222 lbs. Primary doctor visit, follow up from hospital.
5-7-09: Surgeon appointment - gallbladder
5-15-09: Gallbladder surgery. My gall bladder was removed. Requested NO WORK 5-15-09 to 5-24-09.
Medperidine 50 MG prescription
5-19-09: My boss insisted I go to seminar in Ft. Lauderdale. Extremely uncomfortable from surgery.
5-21-09: Follow up with surgeon.
My boss demanding I come back to work part time.
6-4-09: 227 lbs. Gastro visit follow up.
6-12-09: 223 lbs. Primary doctor visit.
6-22-09: 223 lbs.
6-25-09: 229 lbs. Endocrinologist appointment
6-30-09: Thyroid ultrasound
7-1-09: Nutritionist appointment
230 lbs. Pulmonologist appointment
7-16-09: 222 lbs. Endocrinologist appointment.
8-3-09: 230 lbs. CPAP/BiPAP Poly sonography (sleep Study).
8-4-09: Nutritionist appointment
Decided to eliminate salt totally, now using a salt substitute alternative
Changed all white things (bread, tortilla chips, crackers, pasta and more from white to Multigrain/wheat).
Two of the hardest things for me to do.
8-6-09: 225 lbs. Endocrinologist appointment
8-17-09: 225 lbs. Pulmonologist appointment
8-31-09: Pulse oximetry overnight.
9-1-09: 224 lbs. Pulmonologist appointment
9-3-09: Received Oxygen machine to use and sleep with every night.
9-4-09: 222 lbs. Primary doctor visit.
9-14-09: Eye doctor.
9-18-09: MRI of cervical spine. C3-4 neural foraminal stenosis. C5-6 disc herniation.
Neurologist appointment.
9-22-09: Neurologist appointment.
EMG testing
9-23-09: Diclofenac Sod EC 75 MG prescription
10-1-09: Joined Planet Fitness
11-3-09: Mammogram
11-10-09: Bone & Joint doctor appointment (neck pain),
11-17-09: 218 lbs. Pulmonologist appointment
11-20-09: Bone & Joint doctor appointment.
11-25-09: Pulse oximetry overnight.
12-3-09: Health Care District health insurance expired. Applied for Vita Health (also through Palm Beach County).
12-4-09: NO HEALTH INSURANCE coverage.
12-29-09: 211 lbs. Gyn appointment at Health Department (annual pap smear)
I don't cook much at all, as I live alone and it is extremely hard to cook just for 1 person. I admit I should be cooking meals as they are healthier. However, I do not enjoy cooking and do not consider myself a good cook. I do not like to spend a lot of time in the kitchen. If possible, I would like to be in and out of the kitchen within 30 minutes or less and eating. I just wish I new quick healthy meals to make in 30 minutes or less that are for 1 person. My biggest thing I noticed with diets is that I get extremely bored fast of the same food in and out every day. I want to continue to eat better. I want to learn how to prepare FAST healthy meals. It would be nice to have someone show how to make a VARIETY of quick easy fast meals.
*** I am still waiting for bariatric surgery. The economy circumstances has put a small damper on it. A little delay. ***
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1-1-10: New health insurance...Vita Health (through Palm Beach County), I did not have insurance for most of December.
1-6-10: Pulse oximetry over night.
1-8-10: 209 lbs. Primary doctor visit. Already lost weight from working out at Planet Fitness.... 13 lbs.
1-29-10: Got back into church. Decided to get involved regularly and build my relationship with GOD!
2-2-10: 208 lbs. Health Department follow up.
3-5-10: 203 lbs. Prescription for Alprazolam 0.25 MG & Ranitidine 150
3-17-10: 201 lbs. Primary Cdoctor visit. Continuing to loose weight. Now lost another 8 more lbs.
3-19-10: Lost my job!!! DANG!!! Here we go again. Business was slow. There only a year!
3-20-10: Reapplied for Health Care District (health insurance through Palm Beach County) again, since I am unemployed again.
4-1-10: I am now part of the leadership team for the singles adult ministries at my church. I am FaceBook Coordinator and manage the CF singles website.
4-22-10: 2 years ago today Mickey Shapiro (Carnie Wilson's manager) contacted me. Still waiting on surgery and things to move forward.
7-1-10: Back on Health Care District health insurance through Palm Beach County. Good for another year. :-)
7-7-10: 200 lbs. Primary doctor visit. My FIRST small weight loss goal is to get under 200 lbs. Almost there. Next will be an additional 20 lbs. Several small goals will allow me to achieve and conquer.
8-12-10 201 lbs. Thyroid appointment.
8-17-10: 200 lbs. Pulmonologist appointment
8-19-10: Pulmonologist appointment, PFT test
8-29-10: BIG & HUGE day for me. I got baptized in the ocean with my church. I have my certificate. AMAZING!
9-2-10: 201 lbs. Pulmonologist appointment
10-1-10: The job I was last at closed it's doors permanently. The business is closed and no longer open for business.
10-4-10: Eye doctor.
FINALLY!!!! I weigh 195 lbs. I acheived and conquered my first goal. AWESOME!!!! I am so excited. I can't wait to be skinny.
10-18-10: Started new job! Not so sure about this one. Totally different for me. I was out of work for almost 8 months. Another pay cut. This is crazy. Only $31,200 GROSS a year. I was making over $40k in 2008. This is a HUGE adjustment. What am I suppose to do? I take the first thing that comes along. I continue to struggle financially and with my weight. It is depressing.
Going to the gym now before work. My feet ache on the sides and the middles when walking on the treadmill. Strange! I am thinking maybe since I work out right after waking up that my legs and feet do not have enough circulation or something. I have 4 or 5 different pairs of sneakers and I seem to have the same problem with all of them on the treadmill. My first pair of sneakers (Fubu) that I bought recently, I admit that I bought them basically for looks (and they were on clearance). The next 2 pairs (LA Gear) I bought because they were comfortable and light weight (plus on sale). They were all inexpensive sneakers. My mom has told me that ever since I was a baby I have had extremely high arches, which is odd as most babies have flat feet. She stated that it could be possible that the sneakers are not giving me enough arch support and that is why I am having pain and discomfort. I can not afford expensive sneakers, but I need the proper support for my high arches. I don't know what I am going to do.
*** Doesn't look like my dream is going to come true. I am so depressed and bummed out. 
***
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1-13-11: My 40th Birthday!
Gyn appointment, Annual pap smear.
1-21-11: Mammogram
2-1-11: No longer with the leadership team of single adult ministries. I want to spread my wings and venture out and try other things. I need to be fed and to continue to grow with GOD and build our relationship.
2-9-11: Pulse oximetry overnight.
3-7-11: Lost job! Business slow. What the heck is going on. Only a couple months.
Eye doctor appointment.
3-4-11: Dermatitis on the back of my leg again. Reorder Triamcinolo cream.
Using Triamcinolo cream also for the rash and itching I get in between my belly fat rolls.
4-10-11: Reapplied for another year with Health Care District health insurance, since I am out of work again. It is due to expire 6/30/11.
4-27-11: Pulse oximetry overnight.
Prescription for Clindamycin 150 MG (for tooth)
5-3-11: Pulse oximetry overnight. Redo.
5-5-11: Appointment with Pulmonologist. Oxygen level ok. Discharged from his care. WOW!! Shocking, but good news.
5-13-11: My first tooth extraction. My one and only crown has broken many times. It is expensive to fix and cheaper to pull. It has caused me a lot of pain. Xrays indicated infection underneath the tooth. It had to go. I can't keep fixing it over and over.
Hydrocodon-Acetaminophen 5-500 prescription
Clindamycin HCL 150 MG prescription
5-23-11: Started a new job. However, it's part-time (30 hours a week) and another HUGE pay cute for me. Extremely struggling on my own. Very difficult times. I am going to have to push my Avon sales to make some extra cash to meet my bills. I ONLY make $28,444 GROSS (before taxes taken out) a year. I was making over $40k in 2008. This is a HUGE adjustment (over $12k). Since then each job I have obtained, my income continues to keep decreasing. I don't understand. I have 22 years experience in the medical field.
5-27-11: Blood work and thyroid ultrasound for Endocrinologist.
6-10-11: 218 lbs. Appointment with PA (primary doctor assistant). Wanted to get on Adipex (diet pill). He refuse to write me a prescription. Told me to focus on cardio at the gym.
CT on my brain and sinus. Have mucus (sinusitis) and septal (nasal) spur.
6-14-11: I have been to Planet Fitness 347 times. 1 year and 4 months after I joined.
I requested a print out to show my PCP and Endocrinologist.
I have gone through the training at the gym, but it is not specifically directed and designed for me personally. all they showed me is what to do for lower and upper extremities. I think I need a real trainer to show what I need to do in order to be successful in losing weight. However, trainers cost money that I do not have.
Joined a new group at church called J1TEN every Tuesday dedicated to both married couples and singles 20s & 30s. Church seats too tight and small. My legs/thighs touch people on both sides of me. That is extremely embarrassing.
6-15-11: Blood work done. Low Vitamin D. How is this possible? I go to the beach almost every weekend with my sister-in-law. Have to take 2,000 units per day for a minimum of 3 months.
6-17-11: 220 lbs.
Selenium Sulfide 2.5% lotion/shampoo prescription
Azithromycin 250 MG
6-23-11: Started Vitamin D
6-24-11: 228 lbs. Endocrinologist 1 year follow up. T levels off. Back on on Synthroid 25 mg. URGE!!! I was off this medication and now back on it. I am suppose to try it out for 3 months.
7-1-11: Staying with Health Care District health insurance for another year. Effective until 6/30/12. Thank GOD! :-)
220 lbs. Appointment with PA about my left knee, right heel and back. New RX: Naproxen (never took any)
Back xray - indicated straightening of curvature (back spasms)
ENT appointment for sinusitis. Flunisolide 0.025 % nasal spray, Erythromycin 250 MG
7-6-11: Naproxen 500 MG prescription
7-22-11: ENT appointment follow up. OFF nasal spray. Thank goodness. Hated that stuff. Staying on Singulair.
Bone & Joint specialist appointment. Back, LT knee and RT heel. New RX: Flexerill (took 1/2 pill qhs for 2 wks)
Cyclobenzaprine 10 MG prescription
7-29-11: Xrays on knee and foot/heel. I have a calcaneal (heel) spur.
8-6-11: MRI on my knee. Results: small joint effusion and small complex posterior popliteal cyst.
8-12-11: Bone & Joint specialist appointment. He told me "your warranty has run out and is expired", meaning I am now 40 and falling apart. Got an injection in my knee. He had more back xrays done. Informed I have spinal spurs on my vertebrae. He wants me to get an MRI on my back. I am so frustrated. He has xrays that show muscle spasms and spinal spurs. Is an MRI really necessary. I just had an MRI on my knee last week and it was horrible on my back to lay there for 18 minutes. I am also FAT and it is a small space. URGE!!! I am not happy. I got an injections in my knee.
8-17-11: MRI on my lower (lumbar) back. My results........
1. No evidence of disc herniation, spinal or neuroforaminal stenosis.
2. Mild posterior disc bulge L4-5.
3. Fluid at the L4-5 facet joints bilaterally and on the right at L5-S1.
4. Schmorl''s node at the inferior endplate of T11 and superior endplate of L2.
5. Anterior Modic endplate changes at T12-L1.
8-19-11: Bone & Joint specialist. I was hoping to get injections in my back to get some pain relief. They keep pushing pills (now Voltaren 75 mg). I hate taking medication. They recommend some sort of vitamin (Traumeel or Zeel) injection for my knee. They want me to get a back brace for my back. I don't know. I just want relief from the body aches and pains. Why do I have to deal with this pain every day. I miss the gym and want to get back into the gym.
Diclofenac Sod EC 75 MG prescription
9-9-11: Bone & Joint specialist appointment. I started the Traumeel & Zeel injections in my knee in hopes that it will shrink the cyst that is causing me so many problems. My heel spur seems to have subsided due to my regular routine exercises. I asked is my back pain ever going to go away.
Hagers appointment. I was measured for my back corset brace. It has to be ordered.
9-15-11: 3 month follow up blood work for thyroid (taking Synthroid)
9-21-11: 226 lbs. Woke up yesterday with my usual neck and arm pain. In more pain and stiffness today. I went to my regular PCP and got 2 injections, I think Toradol and Kenalog. I also got my flu shot while I was there. He also wrote me a prescription for Robaxin 500 mg. I am so tired of taking medication.
9-22-11: I think the medication and injections helped loosen up the stiffness. I am able to turn my neck better with minimal pain.
9-23-11: 230 lbs. Endocrinologist appointment. Sythroid 25 mg increased to 50 mg
9-30-11: Bone & Joint specialist appointment. Another injection of Traumeel & Zeel in my knee. I must admit the last one some what helped. It is slowly going away, Maybe only one more injection. I am still have every day back pain. My back is still very week. Another RX for Voltaren and new RX for physical therapy. I still have not yet gotten my back brace.
10-7-11: Urologist appointment. I have probably not been to a Urologist since 2008. They are recommending I have another (my third for me) Cysto Dilation. OUCH!!! The first time in 1999 I could not prevent the tears that ran down my face. In 2006, they gave me anesthesia and I went to sleep. This guy does not want to put me to sleep.
Took my cat to vet. She has a lump by her nipple down by her rear legs. It looks like a cyst of some kind. It may be malignant. I can't take this. There is such a bond between me and my cat. She's 12 and I have had her 11 years. It has been just her and I the last 10 years. She is like my daughter. She means the world to me. She is my everything. I can not afford to have this cyst removed. She still acts normal and runs and plays. It doesn't seem to bother her or affect her in any way. I am so bummed out by this.
10-14-11: Started physical therapy for my back. Initial evaluation.
Picked up back brace. I don't like it as it is uncomfortable and seems to cut in under my ribs on the sides.
10-19-11: Gastro specialist appointment. Need Endoscopy, now on Omeprazole.
10-21-11: Bone & Joint specialist appointment. My 3rd injection of Traumeel & Zeel in my knee.
Cysto Dilation (my third one in my lifetime). I do NOT wish this on my worst enemy. This is so EXTREMELY painful. I hate this procedure. However, when I have had it done in the past I know it helps. If this is what it feels like to give birth, maybe I should reconsider having kids. Every time I pee it feels like I am having the procedure all over again. The doctor stated my urethra was very tight. That is why I am retaining urine in my bladder and it is not all draining out properly.
10-27-11: The River Experience by Michael Neale at church. AWESOME, AWESOME, AWESOME! Loved it.
10-28-11: Urologist appointment. Problems ever since cysto dilation (follow up). New medication: Phenazopyridine 200 MG. They recommend that I see a Gyn specialist for back vagina bleeding.
11-9-11: Physical Therapy for back. I am so mad at myself for allowing this to happen to me. My back is so weak. Since my initial P.T. visit I have been doing the instructed exercises every day (except on weekends) and there has been no change in my back. These exercises they gave me today I felt like I could not even complete them, but I did I just had to stop a lot in between in rest. I had to take my time at doing them. My back was really sore afterwards.
11-11-11: Car would not start. I have 4 things today that I need to do (2 doctor appointments and CPR class at work). One of my Christian friends took me to my first doctor's appointment, Bone & Joint Specialist. No more injections in my knee. I am pretty sure the problems I am having in my knee are coming from my back. My left leg was tingling and felt weird all down the leg a couple days ago. I am thinking something else is going on possibly. They are now referring me out to a Neurologist.
I canceled my second doctor's (urologist) appointment. They did not have an updated referral to see me.
My friend dropped me off to my personal appointment. My dad came and picked me up. We tried to jump start my car and it would not work.
I went to work for the CPR course. I was there for 3 hours or longer. It was nice, the instructor was extremely thorough. Glad that I was able to do this, not only for myself to add to my resume, but also to be able to help people. So much has changed with this since 1989 when I learned it back in high school.
Dad came over and took the battery out. Went to Sears and the cheapest battery was $165. That's outrageous. Went to Costco and got battery for $82, saved almost $80. Dad installed battery and the car started.
11-14-11: Physical Therapy for back.
11-16-11: Physical Therapy for back.
11-18-11: Endoscopy procedure. My results.....
- Esophagitis seen in the lower third of the esophagus. Biopsy taken.
- A hiatus hernia found in the cardia
11-21-11: VACATION FROM WORK. Physical Therapy for back.
11-22-11: VACATION FROM WORK. Dermatologist. Have redness on my cheeks and can see what looks like veins, also getting horrible pimples on my chin that have no head to them and are under the skin and last but not least I have a beauty mark (mole) on my chin that I am concerned about. It is not looking good at all and it needs to be checked out.
11-23-11: VACATION FROM WORK. Urologist appointment. They recommend I have a CT of abdomen. Blood still in my urine. Increase Oxybutynin from 5 MG to 10 MG
Physical Therapy for back.
Gyn appointment. They recommend that I have an ultrasound.
So many tests! This is so frustrating. When will the doctor appointments stop? This is not how I wanted to spend my vacation.
11-30-11: Gastro follow up.
CT of abdomen and pelvic. My results.....
- Small subcentimeter inguinal lymph nodes without bulky adenopathy.
- Phleboliths are noted in the pelvis.
12-2-11: Neurologist appt. for back pain, charlie horses in left calf along with toe cramps in left toes.
No longer take Robaxin, now on Baclofen 10 MG
Ultrasound - vaginal
12-8-11: Bloodwork for thyroid doctor.
My cat have emergency surgery. Her tumor/mass/cyst started leaking blood and mucus out of her nipple yesterday and today.
12-9-11: Neurologist appt. - EMG testing - Doctor says I need to loose weight..... DAH!!! I was working on that until my back started hurting.
12-16-11: 239 lbs. Thyroid doctor appt. - T-levels finally back to normal, stay on Synthroid, return in 6 months.
Urologist appt. - everything ok, return back in 4 months
My cat follow up appt. from her surgery with vet - they are surprised a 12 year old cat recovered as well as she did.
12-23-11: My cat follow up appt. from her surgery. Doing good. No need to come back. The stitches will desolved in 2 to 4 more weeks.
229 lbs. My primary doctor (PA) appt. - What next? Back still hurts every day. Any more tests or bloodwork to be done? Doctor tells me I need to loose weight....hmmmmm just like the neurologist. Do they not know I had lost a dignificant amount of weight before my back started hurting. This is crazy.
12-24-11: My cat's results to her tumor that was removed. The report does suggest a malignant tumor, which needed to be removed with large margins, as was done. The doctor is happy with her progress and healing. He did want me to let you know that there is a chance the cancer had spread, usually to the chest, so please watch her for any coughing or respiratory issues.
12-29-11: Blood work for more determination about back problems.
12-30-11: Neurologist appt. - What next? Back still hurts every day, any more tests to be done?
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
1-19-12: Orthopedic specialist appt. He specializes in knees referring me to spine specialist.
1-20-12: GYN specialist appt. Anual pap.
1-23-12: Note on door from landlord. Increase in rent $150 WOW!!! I am alone and by myself.
1-27-12: Mammogram appt. Anual.
2-10-12: Health Dept. appt. to continue on BCP.
Spine specialist appt. I got an answer as to what is wrong with my back and how to resolve the problem. I have facet joint disorder. I need a facet joing block injection. However, my insurance does not carry it.
2-2-12: Podiatrist appt. Foot doctor. Cramps in toes. Got injection.
2-16-12: Podiatry specialist appt.
Dermatology appt. Bad rash on my butt. Embarassing.
2-22-12: Gastro specialist. My boss got mad at me and told me I need to control my hiccups, so I went to the doctor to get an excuse explaining it is a medical condition.
2-29-12: Called current landlords (miss my old one, wish he hadn't sold the place) about my water leak in my apt. They threated to evict me. I don't want to move but curious to see what is out there....so I checked Craig's list.
3-1-12: My mom and I went to see new place to rent. Loved it. First and only place I looked at. Put money down. :-)
3-8-12: Podiatry appt.
3-12-12: Got approved for new condo after doing walk thru with board members. Same quare footage. Same exact price in rent (after the $150 increase). Updated with tile floors, recently remodled with new cupboards. I also have a garbage disposal and dishwasher, which I did not have at the other place. Cable is included (one less bill). Most importantly there is a pool and it's closer to the intracoastal.
3-16-12: MOVED!!! Slept at new home.
4-6-12: Urology appt.
GYN appt.
PCP PA - sinus infection
5-4-12: Health Dept. appt. - need new RX for BCP
5-11-12: Housewarming party.
6-1-12: SAD SAD SAD DAY!......I had to cancel my gym membership as I am unable to work out with my back problems and have not been to the gym now in almost a year. It hurt me to have to do this. Very disppointing.
6-7-12: Bloodwork appointment.
6-8-12: Thyroid ultrasound.
6-15-12 224 lbs. Thyroid appointment. LOST 15 lbs. without even trying. WOW! I think moved and I am in a better environment.
Pulmonologist appointment.
6-20-12: Emergency Room - my eye hurt too bad.
6-21-12: Foot doctor appointment.
6-22-12: Eye doctor. Dry Eye Syndrome.
6-28-12: Sleep Study.
6-29-12: Eye doctor again, eye not getting any better.
Pulmonologist appointment.
7-1-12: No insurance for the month of July. I had Health Care District and my Vita Health plan does not kick in until 8-1-12.
7-14-12: Bought a new bed, hoping it will help with my every day back pain.
8-3-12: Eye doctor appointment. Still having problems with dry eyes.
8-7-12: Foot doctor appointment. Might have a stress fracture.
8-21-12: Foot doctor appointment. Need pneumatic camwalker.
9-11-12: MRI on foot. Foot doctor appointment. Fluid build up (inflamation) and tendonitis. Have to continue to wear boot for 3 more weeks.
9-12-12: Primary doctor appointment. Migraines for 7 days straight. X-ray of neck: straightening (muscle spasms).
I AM SO SICK OF BEING SICK! I hate having all these health issues and problems and going to the doctor all the time. This is one of the main reasons I want to loose weight and have bariatric surgery. If I lost weight and was no longer obese, it would probably eliminate half or more of these issues and problems. This is why it is so very important to me to lose weight. To eat healthy and loose weight (weight loss programs) cost money that I don't have. I know I need help with guidance and diraction along with financially. I know I can't do it on my own. I need assitance. That takes a lot for me to have to admit that.
I am really starting to realize my bariatric surgery with Carnie Wilson is not going to happen. I am finding myself getting extremely depressed and crying all the time. I came so close to my dream coming true and to be let down is horrifying. I am an emotional wreck. To this very day I still have 6 messages saved on my home answering machine from Mickey Shapiro (Carnie Wilson's manager), and Vodge whom works for Mickey, 2 messages from Marcy at US Bariatrics along with Sandy from Dr. Merama's office. My most important concern is that I am obese and not healthy. I am also extremely sick of being SINGLE and FAT! I have not had a real true committed meaningful relationship with a man in over 10 years. I want a husband and family before it is too late.
If Carnie Wilson and her manager (Mickey Shapiro) can't help me, who can?
~ ~ ~ AT THIS POINT, I REALLY DON'T CARE HOW I LOSE THE WEIGHT (it does not have to be bariatric surgery), AS LONG AS IT IS PERMANENT WEIGHT LOSS AND IT BENEFITS MY HEALTH AND WELL-BEING. ~ ~ ~
*** If you would like to get to know me on a more personal level. I request that you please visit me or contact me on FaceBook, you may locate me by my personal e-mail address [email protected]. THANKS. ***
