Kathy Newton
Hi I started my research in June 2003. I was suffering from arthritis, hiatal hernia, acid reflux, severe sleep apnea leval 18 with 2 liters of oxygen, and I had broken my hip and pelvic so I was fastened to a power wheelchair.
In Dec 04 I found out I was a diabetic, but my this time I had been denied surgery from 10 surgeons. I weighed 299 lbs. In March 05 I went to see my parents in Huntington, WV, I met with the surgeon there at one of the hospitals. He had me a date for 3 weeks away, I saw him, had all the pre-op tests done, the nutrionist and the psych. The psych told the surgeon I was unstable to handle the recovery and the weightloss. I should have run over him with my wheelchair. I'll give him unstability. He even has the nerve to charge me for his stupid opinion. I don't pay for stupidity. if you would like your profile enhanced
August 29, 2007 I can't believe how long it has been since I posted on this profile. Below is a copy from my first profile when I first started. I am out a little over 19 months now. My weight is 118, a size 4-6. I had my tummy tuck done thru the VA Medical Center in Nashville on April 20, 2007, what a difference. On Oct. 2 I am having my thighs done. The last two nights I have been able to walk a brisk walk to the mail boxes at the apartment complex here in Lebanon and walk back. No dizzy spells from the Meniers Ear Disease, not short of breath and didn't feel like I was going to pass out. Maybe it's because it's been cooler the last couple of nights. But it felt great being able to walk without losing my balance or getting dizzy.
I have lost two shoe sizes since surgery. Even my fingers are smaller. I have no breasts to speak of, I wear a sports bra and everytime I raise my arms like when having a CT Scan, they fall out the other end. Ask me if I care, I don't, nor do I worry about the excess skin under my arms. I haven't been able to work out for a year, so I know once things settle down in my life, I will be able to get back into on a daily basis. I'm going early in the morning for Physical Therapy, and would like to try the treadmill. I haven't been able to do that since surgery in 2006, now I want to see if I have the strength to do it without getting dizzy or over excerted. I have been having a lot of pain in my lower right side. I've had 7 Ct Scans, an MRI, and an Ultra sound, hospitalized, but they can't figure out what is going on. The GI Dr. is going to be doing a certain test next week on my throat, it's like a scope but you are sitting up when the tube goes down the throat. He want's to see why I have to have my throat dialated every couple of months. Nothing to eat or drink for 8 hours prior. He can't numb my throat, and I will be made to swallow several times on a dry throat (yeah right) to see where the spasms are that are causing my throat to close up causing me to choke. I have to see a surgeon also for exploratory surgery to see if the colon or other organs have major scar tissue on them causing me so much pain. I go to lift something and double over in pain. I've had to call an ambulance twice and all this has been going on since my colonoscopy in June. I do know I have a mass on my liver, and calcifications in my pancreas. But for some reason and that is what the Dr. and the Radiologist feel is that between the gastric bypass, the tummy tuck, the scope to remove pulps from the colon, that I have major scar tissues that may be strangling the colon.
I'm off to go clean the cooler that has been sitting out side, then take my shower. I have therapy in the morning then a Ct scan on my neck regarding my ears. They aren't healing from having the tubes put back in.
By the way, I am enjoying the hottie next door. Yummy. Love Kathy
Click here to hear "One Day At A Time"
I am so excited to have this over with, that my heart hasn't had a chance to slow down. I can't wait to be able to walk again without pain, to sleep in my queen size bed again instead of a hospital bed. To be able to enjoy doing things with my sons and their families, one grandson almost two barely knows me because I can't get into their home in a wheelchair. To raid my best friend's closet as the weight drops including this really hot number she bought at a flea market. It's my color, hot pink suit. hmmmm
July 5, 2004 I have been doing some major thinking today. Couldn't make any calls to the Veterans hospital as they seem to think it's a holiday or something. I'm on a holiday every day, I have my off days and days off. I just find it so frustrating at times. I feel like I am doing everything I can to lose the weight, but for every step forward, I go backwards two steps. Then there are the days when nothing seems to go right. There are times I just want to smash in my careproviders head. He really gets to me and that's not his job pursay. He's against my having the surgery, then he complains that he can't wait until I am no longer in this wheelchair and that I lose weight. Make up my mind, I only have one and it's feeble at that. My Mom called tonight, she thinks I should just get rid of my power chair, and just use a walker. She has been this way since I broke my hip and pelvic. If I could walk with no pain, no swollen feet, and great lungs, I would in a heart beat. But I can barely stand for 2 minutes before I start shaking. I can't even get shoes on, nor would I be able to even tie them if I could wear them. My hip and pelvic are still healing from last September's fall. I have low bone density, and can't take calcium suppliments because I get calcium kidney stones. I feel like a catch 22. Damn if I do, and Damn if I don't. Mom suffers from arthritis and can barely get around, I even gave her one of my walkers, but she refuses to use it. She is 70 years old, over weight, diabetic, strokes, high BP, has sleep apnea but won't wear the mask, and she expects me to just get up and walk. I can barely breath after just 2-3 steps. It's like I ran 100 mile marathon. Why can't people understand that without the surgery, I may not live another year or two at the most. My lungs are shrinking and can't expand because of the weight. The family thinks it's not true, but I've seen the ct scans and mri's regarding my heart and lungs. Obesity affects all our body not just certain areas. I want to live, but I need the family support more then they know. Until the next time. Love Oh and your support. Y'all mean so much to me. Words of encouragement, prayers, help. I only hope I can be just as helpful to you.
July 6, 2004I was able to contact the Nashville VA Medical Center. When I called the Huntington, WV VA Hosital, all I needed was their fax number. I called Karen back at the Nashville hospital and she was faxing my consult to the WV hospital, and that I need to have the psych eval and surgical appointment on the same day if possible, or within 2 days. Having the psych eval first. Since I just moved down here a year ago, I know the mental health psych, they know me, and I know the guys at the front desk in surgical clinic. Randy is the head guy at the front desk, that will be doing my scheduling. He's a hottie. I called him back to expect the fax coming thru, he knows that I have moved down here and that I need the appointments asap. He is gong to try and get me in with one of the appointments real soon. That's all I know for now. Just have to wait until I get the letter for the appointments. Later good friends.
July 17,2004 I don't have a Dr. yet, checking out different ones. Nor do I have an angel yet. It's a rainy day out, gloomy, not up to doing much right now, but take a nap.
Ceramics, fishing, reading when I can, addicted to my computer, wheelchair bound, blond/brown hair, long, green eyes,
July 22, 2004
Today I managed to get my two witnesses together and go to the sheriff's department to see the notory. I now have a will, living will, and durable Power of attorney. Then if anything does happen, everything is taken care of.
July 24, 2004 It's been a while since I wrote in here what is going on in my life. Well, the newlyweds, gave me some very good news, my new daughter-in-law and my son are having a baby in October. I new she had put on some weight at the wedding, but this was a total surprise. I so badly want the surgery over so will be able to go to Nashville and hold my new grandchild.
July 28,2004: Today I am concentrating on calling all my Dr.'s and have them send me their referrals for the surgery. I am also in prayer for Barbara, Kym, and all those around the country who are at the mercy of their surgeons. No one takes GBS lightly. This is a very risky procedure, we all know the risks, some of us may not be able to have the surgery, other's do great having it. So far, I have seen 3 different Dr.'s and been denied. I know God closed those doors, as He has something or someone better for me. I don't believe He would sentence me to an early grave unless He needed me. I will continue to just trust that He knows what is best. Kathy
August 15,2004
This was sent to me and I wanted to share it with you, Kathy Sister-To-Sister Encouragement So often, we look at others and compare ourselves to them. And often, we come up short. We look and say, "Oh she's 25 and she's done this, this, this and this. Or we watch people who "have it all together" and we begin to get down on ourselves. We find any number of ways to compare ourselves to the next sister - and come up short....STOP! There's a saying that the grass is always greener on the other side. Well; their water bill is higher too. And guess what? You can have green grass also IF you seed, water and fertilize your lawn. You can't have what somebody else has if you're not willing to go through what they went through. But, that's another matter. Stop comparing yourself to others. Love YOU!!!! Each of us has our own thorns. Be it weight, single-parenting, job dissatisfaction, husband problems, financial distress, children woes, over-worked/underpaid issues, loneliness, confusion, self-doubt, etc. You've got to love you, and if you can't do that right now, at least quit comparing yourself to others, because you don't know what they are going through. Someone will always be prettier. They will always be smarter. Their house will be bigger. They will drive a better car. Their children will do better in school. And their husband will fix more things around the house. So let it go, and love you and your circumstances. Think about it. The prettiest sister in the world can have Hell all up in her heart. And the most highly favored sister on your job may be unable to have children. And the richest sister you know - she's got the car, the house, the clothes - might be lonely. And the word says if I have not Love, I am nothing. So, again, love you. Love who you are right now and let God be your barometer. Mirror Him. Look in the mirror in the morning and see how much God you see. He's the only standard, and even when you come up short, he will not leave you or forsake you. Smile and may God continue to BLESS YOU Real GOOD!! "I am too blessed to be stressed and too anointed to be disappointed!" The shortest distance between a problem and a solution is the distance between your knees and the floor. "The one who kneels to God can stand up to anything." "Winners make things happen. Losers let things happen." Be Blessed ladies and pass this on to encourage another sister
August 16,2004 I had too do a complete overall of reinstalling my software for my hard drive. I thought things like photos that were saved in the system, would still be there. Wrong, if they are I can't find them. Some were of my great great great grandparents. I don't have any hard copies, as these pictures were borrowed for me to copy them for a family scrap book for both of my sons, and their children. If I call Hewlett Packard, since it's out of warranty, they charge $40 on my credit card, which I don't have, as I just had to take out $30. I need to find out how to get them restored back into my system. Any ideas, I am open to all ideas, and suggestions. Getting ready for another sleep test tonight. This is the third one since June. Hopefully, I won't have to have anymore for a long while to come. I hate that stuff they put in your hair. Kathy
August 26,2004 Hi, I am having a lousy day, and in a lousy mood. I had a hysterectomy in 1980 while we were in the military. IN 1996 I had to have my ovaries and tubes removed. I had to see a Dr. today to find out why I am bleeding where I shouldn't be. To day was the worst pelvic exam I have ever encountered. Last fall when I broke my hip and pelvic, I had to have a physical. It hurt my hip and pelvic but not like today. I am in so much pain right now, that I just want to cry. The Dr. had a very hard time doing it because my hip and pelvic wouldn't move and and I am very tight there from all the kagle excersises I've done over the past year. It's like I'm having periods and shouldn't be. Now I have to start all over again with another Ct scan on this x-file growing inside of me and to see what is going on inside of the pelvic area. He can't understand how Johnson City Hospital could not find this huge lump growing inside of me between the navel and the breast plate. Well, Johnson City was using IV dye contrast where he wants me to be cleaned out first so that it will show up better. Since 1996, I have been on Premerin. I am .9mg daily. I started having hot flashes, all that stuff that goes with menopause. He wants to take me off the estrogen, even though I have surgical menopause. That's for life, yet he thinks I need to stop taking it. Wrong. Last year when I couldn't find my pills after just moving in, I walked around the trailer in a very ugly mood carrying a butcher knife. Don't mess with my estrogen, my mental health would really get in the way. Premerin can make you suicidal if you don't take it daily. Been there done that. Enough of this. Later. Kathy
9/9/04 Hi, it was such a beautiful day outside where I was at, that I could have sat there all day. I had an appointment today to see my PCP, good thing I had the appointment card, as they didn't have me scheduled in their computer. Well, Dr. Tight jeans, worked me in. Told him I was out of Estrogen and I have a gun, he renewed my meds immediately. I just added up for 14 bottles of pills that I have to take a month, not counting my nasal spray for drainage, the Xopenex for my nebulizer, or my Advair inhaler, just the bottles without insurance would cost me $1200.00 a month. That's out rageous. No wonder their are so many elderly have to decide do I buy my pills or food this month. What about the homeless, deciding whether to pay rent, no medications, or live on the street and get medications at a clinic. It is a crime. I only get $800 a month between SSA and VA pension. I would be in the same position, if I didn't live near a Veterans hospital. With this surgery, I will be able to eliminate all but 8. Five are for mental health, one is Estrogen, one for my thyroid, and my bee sting auto injector which is $55.00 a month, that I didn't add in. I need to have that at all times. Now if I were to multiply that by 12 months, it would cost my insurance almost 15,000 a year not counting the three different things I have for breathing. It would be far cheaper in the long run for the insurance companies to fork out for the gastric surgery, within 2 years what they save on the prescriptions would more then pay for the surgery. I have to be tested for diabeties now. My heart Dr. sent a message in March regarding that I am a diabetic insulin dependent. Like to know how they came up with that, so did my PCP, as he has never tested me for sugar, and he would be taking care of my diabetic needs. So now I have to be tested as both parents are diabetic, and whatever is going on, I am craving sweets real bad, can't get enough in me at the moment, my eyes have gone over to the blurry side over the last 3 weeks. Normanly I wear just reading glasses, but I have a hard time even with those in focusing. So in two weeks I do a fasting lab for blood work and see him in a month. I feel like Dawn right now, what next is going to go wrong before I can have this surgery? Later. Kathy
9/23/04 Hi, I am begining to wonder if I will ever have this surgery. There are so many things working against me. Maybe I am supposed to die earlier then planned. Can't seem to find a Dr. who is willing to go the surgery. I am going to call a Dr. in Chattanoga, and if all fails, change my address to my parents in WV, just so the VA Medical Center would consider surgery on me. I'm not going to rush into things, until I hear from Dr. Oxley. He may come thru after all. Please send prayers that the Dr. will take me. I am qualified as a good candidate, but no one wants to do my surgery. Kathy
9/24/04 Well, here it is, have been denied 6 times. I do believe that is the record. I don't know what else to do at this time. I have left a message for Dr. Wright in Nashville but he will have to get back with me next week. I also found out if I can get a surgeon in Huntington,WV who is willing to do my surgery and accepts Medicare, that TN Medicaid will pay what Medicare doesn't pay, since I can't get it done in this state. So I have a couple of messages up there, hopefully they will get back to me about this. Later. Kathy
9/30/04, Hi, I do believe after 8 denials that I am not to have this surgery. In the mean time, the fluids keep retaining. Four days ago I was able to get into a pair of slacks and my sandles. Yesterday I couldn't get the slacks up and today not even the sandles would go on. I wish the Dr.'s would work on getting this extra fluids off me. With my wheelchair still broken, I've had to walk and believe me when I say to put any weight on my right knee, it makes my hip worse and my back. I had to go to the ER on Tuesday because the pain was so intense. I can't put weight on my right leg now anymore then I could a year ago when I first broke it. I have this sneaky feeling that I am not to have surgery, that my life span will get shorter, and I will be confined to this chair. I so wanted that surgery, to be able to live longer, to be able to get out of this chair, to be able to buy clothes that fit me without having to try them on. But I know it was only a dream. Forever, Kathy
10/7/04, Hi it's been a while since I posted. It was getting so depressing for me to try and be cheerful when someone got a date, approved, or lost weight. I had been denied, and didn't feel like I was able to be totally there for the others. I know that is wrong, but that's how my brain was acting. I wasn't much good to anyone who even crossed my path. Today I had a consult with Dr. Colquitt in Blunt County, in Maryville. It's 71 miles one way, real easy to find. The Dr. was very pleasant, very positive, showed me where he would do the cuttings for a laproscopic procedure. I felt comfortable with him, and totally forgot what I wanted to ask him. But I figure when I attend the seminar, I will find out the answers to the questions at that time. The excitement and the strained nerves sure did a whopper on my bowels. We went over my medications, allergies, and the fact that I can't swallow liquid medications as I end up throwing it back up. It doesn't matter what it is, once it hits my stomach it burns and up it comes. I don't want to get my hopes up, but it's really hard. I have had so many disappointments with other Dr.'s that I am just a little bit leary, and until I have a surgery date, will I actually believe that it's true. Signing off, Kathy
10/16/04 Hi it's been a real stressed out week that's for sure. I had to miss dr. Colquitt's seminar and support group last Thursday evening. I strongly believe it was meant to be. So much termoil was going on with my younger son, he and I were constantly angry with
each other. Thursday evening we talked for 5 hours long distance. Everything came out that had been causing us this pain for over 3 years. He's life is in such pain, he's about to lose everything that he has worked so hard for. I can't help him financially but I can be here for him. I just have to trust God to work things out for him and his family. Truth be told, I wish I had a straight jacket for his wife. She's a danger not only to him, Waylon, but to herself. So for now, my surgery will have to put on hold again. But right after the holidays, I am only going to concentrate on getting my surgery, so that I'll be in a better position to help my family when needed. For now, God be with you, Kathy
Nov 4, 2004 Hi didn't realize that it has been a while since I posted. So much has been happening that it just boggles my brain. I have had to deal with my younger son, Scott, his marriage is a mess. She wants everything and he refuses to obligate her. So he stays in their home, that's the only way he gets to see his son. My older one, Phillip and his lovely wife gave birth to a beautiful son, Philip (1 L) Elias. He was born on Phillip's 28th birthday. I have mixed feelings about them only putting one L in Elias's first name. I wanted to go over this weekend and see my new grandson, but has luck would have it, between the allergies, I now not only have to deal with the itchy swollen eyes, and the sneezing, I have to put up with the bronchial cough on top. In just a few short hours, my dad will be under going surgery to remove part of his left lung. He has a one inch mass in his lung. This will be tested to see if it is cancer. I pray it isn't, he's 75 but he has to live if he wants to get to know and see his new great grandson. I will be attending Dr. Colquitt's seminar next Thursday and the support group right afterwards. That's a 70 mile drive one way. Oh well, for now, that's about as far as I am able to go with my journey, until I can get registered. I barely have enough coming in on the 3rd of the month to cover my bills, anything extra, is just about out of the question. Later, Kathy
Dec 1, 2004, It has been a long time since I posted, so I will try and get things updated. The last month and a half it's been one stress level or another. Dad got sick on Mom's birthday and had to be hospitalized. The tests showed a one inch mass on his left lung. After the bone scan, he was scheduled for surgery. They removed half of his left lung, the fast growing cancer was successfully removed and shows no cancer cells left. My son blessed me with a new grandson. Phillip help deliver his son Philip Elias on his 28th birthday. Last Saturday both sons, my new daughter-in-love, and my new grandson came over and we had our Thanksgiving dinner. Elias is so beautiful and a cuddler. I got to hold him for the first time. He's now 5 weeks old. But I sure didn't like the two pictures of me holding him. The camera lied and showed me bigger then I thought I was. It could have lied and made me skinny.
I have been so depressed lately. It looked like I would never get to finish my journey. But God sent me a live angel. He is from this site and has offered me the money I need to register with the surgeon. Now maybe this depression will go away. Maybe now I can finish my journey. This man has brought new hope in my life when all I was seeing was dispare. God Bless you my friend. Love Kathy
Hi I know it's been a while, like a month. It is now Jan. 7, 2005. There has been so much going on lately. Had a great Christmas weekend in Nashville with my sons, and their families. Mostly with my older sons home. His mother, sister, and brother-in-laws joined us for the Christmas eve. Silvia and Phillip set their own family tradition that night. Because the baby is only 2 months old, we did the Christmas opening after midnight. Phillip and Silvia made a beautiful dinner, then my younger son and family came by for a visit. With my older grandson being of the age of 2, they needed to leave for his bedtime so santa could come. Phillip read in American King James, Silvia read it in her Spanish King James, and the baby learned how to coo that night so there was 3 different languages that night. Christmas music in the background. It really was a special night. I just about have it all together. I missed the nutrionist on Wed. and the support group tonight. Didn't want to drive tonight in the rain and being sick with a broncial infection. Plus my eyes don't see well at night in the rain. So I have to be rescheduled for the nutrionist. I'll get it done and submit my paperwork hopefully in the next couple of weeks. That's all for now. Kathy
March 2, 2005 I know it's been awhile, don't worry I can't keep up with my personal journal either. I leave on Monday Mar7, for Huntington, WV. This is my home town. I am to meet Dr. Nease, a gastric surgeon, on the 8th, have lab work, chest x-ray, have the psych eval that afternoon. On the 10th I will have my nutrional classes. From there, I don't know what will take place. Most likely I'll return home until I hear from the Dr. Then I will go back up there for pre-labs, and to register at the hospital. Dr. Nease wants me to be able to stay up there at least a month. My parents still live there, so I will be staying with them. I have a nephew next door, my sister lives just across the bridge in Ohio. So I will be able to spend time with my family, while I am recuperating. I just feel it so strong in my heart that this is the surgeon for me. I'll catch up later when I know more. For now, good night. Oh, last week I had to have all my teeth pulled out, no problem being put to sleep, no affects when I woke up. No cheating on this diet, can't chew anything. Feels weird and I talk funny but at least I am in no further pain with my gums. Kathy
March 12, 2005 Hi. This past week while in Huntington, WVa I went thru so much that I began to wonder if I was coming or going. I arrived last Monday evening at my parents. On Tuesday morning, I met with Dr. Nease the surgeon. I felt so comfortable with him, his nurse, the nutrionist, his surgical coordinator. He was so calm, explained things to me, where he would be do the lap, wasn't worried about any prior scar tissues. He even sat down in my wheelchair and took off down the hall trying to pop wheelies in a power chair. After seeing him, I was sent for my Ekg, chest x-ray, and labs only I had eaten so they couldn't draw blood. At 1pm I went to see the psych for my eval. Another test, he was cold, barely talked, and said the Dr. would receive his report in 2 days. ON Wednesday, I just rested from the hectic day before and the traveling. Dad had his chemo on Thursday, so all of us were at the same hospital all morning. I had my blood work done, then attended the nutrionist classes for 4 hours. Glad mom was sitting in, (she's over weight and diabetic) because having to fast for the lab work, my sugar was getting real low. I sent her to get me something real quick. The nutrionist gave some really great advice. For those who have a hard time getting in their protein to buy two types. Buy one that you enjoy, a flavor type, the second one buy a tasteless one and add it to your water, soups, hot cereals, in mashed potatoes, anything to get in your protein. When I left after the classes, dad was done with his chemo, so the elders went home, and I headed to KY to see my best friend. I love her husband. He keeps her happy and that makes him #1 in my book. We all went out for chinese and sat around for over two hours just talking. I didn't get any sleep that night, my hip and knees were in a lot of pain from all the walking. Then the Dr.'s coordinator called to tell me that due to what the psych said, the Dr. refuses to do the surgery. It was all I could do was to drive home in a snow storm 6 hours. When I got here the flood of tears flowed. Today I have things back in prospective. I've had 9 denials, but I still have years before I reach 65 and by God I am just stubborn enough to know that God still isn't finished with me yet, that he has something very important for me to do. So I will continue with the fight and get this surgery out of the way, so that I can do whatever God has planned for me. Until later. Kathy
April 22, 2005
Hi friends, it's strange how nothing will happen during a week and the following one totally wears you out. I hurt my back over the weekend, by Monday the pain was horrible in my left thigh that I had to call an ambulance to take me to the hospital. I was checked for blood clots in that leg, nothing was done to check my back, 7 hours later I was admitted to the ward under heart, lung, vascular section. I laid there for 2 days. The Demeral shot into my IV would wear off after about 1-1/2 hours, but couldn't get anything for 4 hours. I would just lay there and cry. I came home 2 days later with orders to stay in bed and keep my leg propped up. I was told that I had Cellulitis in my left thigh. From what Greg and Webmd has told me, I should have a dark red blotch with lines leading off it. Well, I don't have that. Still nothing was done about my lower back. Next week, I will either contact my Orthopedic or a Chiropractor. It hurts to put any weight on my left let, the pain pills only give temporary relief. Rather it takes the burning pain away, but not the overall pain. It just seems like everytime I think that nothing is going to happen to prevent me from having surgery, it blows up in my face. I did call St. Mary's hospital in WV where I was born. I only have to meet with Joy, the dietician. I meet with her and the surgeon on June 8th.
June 4th I will be moving to Portland, TN just one hour north of Nashville. I'll be closer to my two grandbabies, and my sons. One of my daughters-in-law's has already put a holding fee down to secure the apartment for me. She and I don't always and haven't always got along, but she's doing this, so there may be a chance of us becoming friends. Well, I will keep everyone posted on the progress after I get settled and get back from West Virgina. Be well, be happy, and trust God to answer all your needs. Kathy
July 9,2005
Hi friends, I can't believe that it's been so long since I posted on here. About time I got caught up. So far it's been a fun summer. In June I planned a surprise reunion for my parents. All 5 kids were able to make it, which is the first time we've all been together at one time since 1999. My brother, wife, and their 3 kids came up from Nashville. My half sister, her husband and one of their daughters came with 3 of the grandchildre. Lisa is my half niece went thru the bariatric surgery over 2 years ago and is going great. She's gone from 573 lbs to 189. Has a lot of excess skin, but isn't worried about it, she's able to walkk for the first time in years. My sister and brother-n-law were already down from Michigan for their vacation, so the family reunion was planned around their vacation. Everyone had a great time. When I got back from West Virginia, My military service disability check was in the mail. I have had fun spending it. The end of June, I went to Nashville, spent that Saturday and Sunday in the Portland area with my younger son, his wife and my soon to be 3 yr old grandson. We went to the drive- theater and watched Herbie: fully loaded. Then on Sunday my older son, wife, and their 8 month old son plus my other son and family joined me on the General Jackson dinner Cruise in Nashville. We had a lot of fun. That monday I had the priviledge of having lunch with Toni Miller. She really is so sweet. Then I went down towards Hermitage where my oldest son lives. We just hung out in my motel room and had dinner and watched some tv. On Tuesday I hit up the pool, for a couple of hours. Then they came over and played in the pool for awhile, went and got dinner then my other son's family and they went swimming too. I left that Wednsday for home. I had to have the GI scope down my throat to see what was going on, my throat had to be dialated, the hernia was up to high, and I have ulcers in my stomach. This week, tnCare informed me that at the end of the month they will only be paying for 5 of my medications. Three generic and 2 name brand, the other 11 I have to pay for. Like I am a rich person. The next day I was told that the MRI showed I have advance leukemia a cancer that has all ready attack the large bones, the blood and the bone marrow. I won't be able to have the surgery now. I may not even be able to have a bone marrow transplant as it has progressed so fast. I will fight until I can't fight anymore. I will still check the board when I am able. They are putting me on a pain pump as the pain is horrible right now. I have already checked into turbans and wigs. My thick hair has fallen out so much that what once took an hour to dry it, takes less then 15 minutes. I don't know how I am supposed to feel, but I want to scream and break things, to cry and then get angry. I am asking for all prayers and support to help me deal with this. Love Kathy
August 3, 2005
Hi, after I have this bone marrow drawn from my hip next week, and get the results, if the Dr. doesn't explain anything else to me, I have already asked my PCP for a new Dr. I just don't feel comfortable with the one I have. I will meet with Dr. Colquitt on the 17th. I'm not going to get my hopes up until I hear the words, I have a date. Then I will believe that it's actually going to happen. Everyone says I'm strong, inside I don't feel that strength, I feel like I'm having to fight the world at times. But I try and stay stronge for everyone else. Kathy
8/10 Hi, had the marrow taken from my hip. He numbed it to be able to cut a section allowing him to get the large needle into my hip bone and to draw out the marrow. That part could not be numbed and all I could do is scream. I see the Oncologist on the 24th, he will go over the 2 lab works that was done today, what type of leukemia I have and how advanced it is. He will also be going over treatment plans. I see Dr. Colquitt on the 17th. I am praying that I can get this taken care of before any treatments are started. Kathy
9/17 Hi, I know it's been awhile since I updated my profile. I will try now if I can stay awake long enough. The Oncologist that I was seeing, doesn't seem to have the time to talk to me about what is going on. I am seeing another one on Sept. 20th, I hope she's a lot better. I don't know if she will keep me on the same medicate that the prior one had put me on. I know I tire easily more so then I did just being obese. I need to redo my will, but I just feel that it's not a priority at this moment. Even tho I know that it's necessary since I have leukemia. Love kathy
9/23/05 I met with the new Oncologist this week. I really like her. She explained that they don't know much about this rare form of Leukemia, or why this Gleevec medication works only on this type of Leukemia. I wrote for information to the Cancer Center of America, they never responded back. She said that they don't know how fast this disease works or how slow. Being Chronic, it could last years, or less. Having to go thru all this and the legal aspects of it all, I can only say, take legal measures now. You don't want to die leaving your family having to do everything. Even if you are newly married, make provisions, your Will, Living Will, and a Durable power of attorney of your wishes. Then you will know everything is taken care of. I did all mine a year ago when I started looking at having the weightloss surgery. We never know when our time is up, so taking care of things now, making provisions for minor children, this insures that your wishes will be carried out. Don't leave things undone. Plus the expense of a funeral without life insurance will leave a huge debt on those you love. I can't get insurance because I have leukemia. Don't wait until it's too late.
I see a psych twice a month, I laugh, cry, and get angry at the unfairness of it all.
Love Kathy
9/29 Hi I met with Dr. Colquitt on 9/28. After he was done with the exam and we had talked, he made a comment and I looked up and had to ask him to repeat what he had said. I even questioned him asking him" Does this mean you are doing my surgery?" He laughed and said as long as my Onocologist gives me the clearance, he will proceed by giving me a surgery date. Once I get her clearance and a psych report back, he will set a date of 6 weeks after that. He's already booked up to the middle of November. So we're looking at close to Christmas. I may have him wait until a couple of days after Christmas, or go into the New Year. I love y'all. Kathy
11/8/05 Hi, I just found out that I have a surgery date. It's really hard to accept the fact that it's actually going to happen after all I've been thru. It's January 9, 2006. I feel right now like I have ran a marathon. I want to go to the top of Clinch Mountain where I live and shout it from the top so everyone knows. I am so excited. Later love kathy
Dec. 31,2005 Happy New year. I am down to 9 days to go. I am to be at the hospital at 6am. I'm first to have surgery. That's great. Then I don't have to bother going to bed as I will have to leave by 4:30am to get there on time. Surgery is scheduled for 8am. Please keep me in your prayers. Love Kathy
Feb. 7, 2006
I am one month post-op. I feel great. I did have to stay in the hospital for 5 days after surgery because of my potassium. Mom and I stayed in a motel for 5 days after I was discharged until the drain tube was taken out. I was home for a week and a half and on the 28th of Jan, I had to be readmitted for a week because of the potassium level wants to stay in the critical area. I still have trouble with it, and having a hard time getting in my protein and water. The old saying what goes in must come out, is me. As long as I don't eat, don't drink or even think about it then my stomach won't reject anything. I haven't done any excersises yet, just getting used to walking again after almost 3 years. I tire very easily, between have the surgery and having leukemia I have to take things a little easier then most. That's ok. By the way, I love getting hugs from the nurses and my Dr.'s when they see me now. They are amazed that I am walking and how much I have already lost. Next week, I will be getting into a excersise program. One day at a time. Thank you My Lord for sending Dr. Colquitt.
2/13 Hi I just want to share some things on my blond brain. Today I got into jeans that I couldn't wear last spring. They were packed away to get rid of, so glad I didn't do that. I am down to 240, a total of 37.5 lbs gone since my surgery date on 1/9/06. I feel so giddy right now. I feel like a teenager with tennis shoes, t-shirt, and jeans. I am getting back my self confidence and it shows. My various Dr.'s and nurses are so excited for me, they constantly hug me. It feels sooooooooooo great. My parents were so against this surgery, are now my main supports. Miracles do happen. God has been with me all the way and I need to remember to lean more on Him then on myself. Thank you all for being there for me. Love Kathy
5/11
Hi, gosh it's been a while since I updated my profile. Time has really flown by. As of today, I weigh 202, that's 75.5 lbs gone in 4 months. My blood work each week shows everything including my protein and potassium are all in normal range. I even met a couple of really nice men thru online dating. I love looking in the mirror now and seeing the differences in my body. You can see the inches and pounds just melting away. My ex-husband would be shocked to see how great of shape I'm in and that I love working out. I might just send him a picture of me now. He asked for a divorce when I weighed 130 lbs and said I was fat. I'm in better shape now then I was back then. But don't want to shock him too much, he gave up being a vegetarian, working out, and all that stuff, and now has heart problems and a recent heart attack. So I don't want to shock the old man now. LOL, he lost when he said that to me. I would really like to know what he would think now. I will try and keep this posted up-to-date. Thank y'all for your continued prayers and support. Kathy
August 16, 06 I can't believe how long it's been since I updated my profile. I have lost 100 lbs as of today. My potassium is just below normal and has held the same number for 3 weeks now, mighty unusual. I do have chest pain, severe enough to warrant a ct scan, bone scan, and a MRI all within a week. Hopefully something will show up as to why my chest hurts, why I can't get enough oxygen, or why it hurts so much just having a blood pressure cuff put on my left arm. I do have spurs all over the vertabraes in my neck, it burns when I have been sitting too long.
I am slowing getting settled into my new apartment. It's been hard over the last two weeks. But little bit a day and it will all get done.
Tomorrow I planning on taking a break from unpacking and break some green beans to can. I also put 13 quarts of diced tomatoes in the freezer, I plan on making mild and hot salsa, and some spaghetti in jelly jars for me. Suzy homemaker I'm not, Martha Stewart move over.
Well, I am off to watch a movie, while I break some beans. That way I can get them started tomorrow after I get my blood work done. While they are cooking, I will be breaking some more. Until later. Love Kathy
07-26-04
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Oct. 17, 2006 Dear Journal, it's been a while since I have posted. I found out in September that I now have cancer. I don't know if I am coming or going anymore. I see my Oncologist today. The leukemia which is cancer of the blood and bone marrow has attacked the breasts and lymph nodes. I will find out on Friday prior to the biopsy whether it has spread to the other lymph nodes, if it has, then chemo will be started, if not then both breasts and their lymph nodes will be taken off. A plastic surgeon will be on stand by to fashion me a new set of breasts. It will be 3-6 months before he will be taking some flab off my stomach to make the nipples, and tatoo the coloring of them. My emotions are running high and low right now.
I fell in love with a wonderful man. I just wish I could be with him right now. He's had an heart attack on Sept. 26 plus a stroke. Yesterday he fell and arrangements have been made to get him to San Jose, Costa rica for his heart and they think he broke his jaw when he fell. I am supposed to be flying down there on November 3-20, to spend time with him and to discuss my options regarding the chemotherapy. His son will be keeping me informed on what is going on with John. I miss him so much and I love him more. I just wish he was well. I hate for him to be down there sick and I can't be with him. Need to get ready for my appointment with the Oncologist. I dread having to go, it's always bad news. love Kathy
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Member Interests:
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Surgeon Info:
Surgeon: Mark A. Colquitt, MD FACS
I found when I met Dr.Colquitt last October is that he's a quiet man. My impression of him hasn't change. The office staff make you feel like you are in great hands. They're helpful, understanding, and go out of their way to make you comfortable. Dr. Colquitt is thorough, he is a positive person that lets you know you are in confident hands. Aftercare is very important to this Dr. He's upfront when it comes to the risks, he doesn't minimize them. They are serious risks and no one is a better candidate then the next person. I would highly recommend him. Surgical competence is better. If the surgeon doesn't have confidence in himself, then he's not the one you want. I would imagine that with his quiet manner in the office will make him have a great bedside manner after surgery. I don't know how he is or was to other patients, I just know how he is with me. I found him to be upfront, but a gentleness about him. I discovered that Dr. Colquitt does have a quiet chuckle. I really felt like I was in great hands with my surgeon.
Insurer Info:
Medicare/Medicade
Because I have Medicare, the hospital is 100% covered. I have plan A and B with TN Care Blue Care cross over. So I don't have to wait for approval or the denials. I did find out that Medicare no longer gives prior approval and won't until the hospital bills arrive. I am supposed to have 3-5 yrs Dr. supervised weight loss attempts if no co-morbilities and my BMI is under 40. Over 40 with co-morbilities I don't need the dr. supervised diet program.
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