ladavids
Wow! 15 Years Post-Op - What a Ride!
Aug 27, 2016
Today I give thanks for the life-changing and health-providing surgery I had 15 years ago. Being rolled into the operating room at 270 pounds, I vividly remember asking God to allow this procedure to be successful after employing every technique possible to achieve better health. Little did I understand in that moment how very different life would be today. I am able to walk down the street without verbal – and sometimes physical – attacks, I’m able to fly without sideway glances upon requesting a seatbelt extender, and I’m able to walk around the block without shortness of breath and knee pain. I have completed a 5K, I became a fitness instructor, and probably most importantly, I am able to be an advocate and educator regarding the obesity epidemic and the fact that there is so often a genetic predisposition to this disease. I am reminded – because of my own journey – to live the following quote daily: “Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle” (Plato). Feeling grateful, full of appreciation, and comforted that I’ve had another day on this earth.
11.5 years out
Mar 12, 2013
Holding steady at #150-#155 lbs. (most days), but finding I always want to lose that extra 5 pounds, when there is no extra 5 pounds to lose. :) I need to listen to my body and understand that it is comfortable here and enjoy the moment.
Keeping the weight off is definitely not easy (a mostly healthy diet and exercise 3-4 times a week helps with this). I'm also thinking about getting involved once again with volunteering with patients as I used to...it's a great feeling to give back and to let people know that you can keep the weight off long-term, in spite of some of the stories out there.
My Journey
Mar 28, 2007
HEIGHT: 5'6"
8/15/01 (DAY OF SURGERY): #268.5 lbs.
1 Month - 9/15/01: #240 lbs.
2 Months - 10/15/01: #224 lbs.
3 Months - 11/15/01: #212 lbs.
4 Months - 12/15/01: #200 lbs.
5 Months - 1/15/02: #190 lbs.
6 Months - 2/15/02: #181 lbs.
7 Months - 3/15/02: #175 lbs.
8 Months - 4/15/02: #167 lbs.
9 Months - 5/15/02: #162 lbs.
10 Months - 6/15/02: #154 lbs.
11 Months - 7/15/02: #151 lbs.
12 Months - 8/15/02: #146 lbs.
13 Months - 9/15/02: #143 lbs.
14 Months - 10/15/02: #138.5 lbs. (-4.5 lbs. - tummy tuck) GOAL WEIGHT ACHIEVED!!!
15 Months - 11/15/02: #136 lbs.
16 Months - 12/15/02: #136 lbs.
17 Months - 1/15/03: #136 lbs. I think I'm done losing but I am so happy with where I am!!!
18 Months - 2/15/03: #136 lbs.
19 Months - 3/15/03: #131 lbs.
20 Months - 4/15/03: #134 lbs.
21 Months - 5/15/03: #134 lbs.
25 Months - 9/15/03: #134 lbs.!!!
26 Months - 10/15/03: #136 lbs.
30 Months - 2/15/04: #140 lbs.
TOTAL LOSS THUS FAR: -128.5 lbs.
STARTING BMI: 43.3
CURRENT BMI: 22.0
My name is Leah and I am 25 years old. I have lived in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area all my life and have also been overweight all of my life. I understand the struggles other morbidly obese people face and know how hard it can be to live in such a large body and to face ridicule and unfair judgement everyday.
I learned of bariatric sugery this winter (2000 - 2001) and went to two informational sessions for area hospitals. I decided to go with Dr. Schwartz/Dr. Drew at Abbott Northwestern Hospital in Minneapolis since they perform gastric bypass laparoscopically. I am fortunate because I was approved upon my first letter to Medica Choice; this of course, is all thanks to Judith Schwartz, the nurse at Abbott.
I am scheduled to meet with Dr. Schwartz on Thursday, June 14th, 2001. I am excited because this is when we will schedule my surgery date!!
Wish me luck!
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June 15, 2001 UPDATE!
My husband and I met with Dr. Schwartz for the first time today. He seems to be very competent; he is very straightforward and was willing to answer any questions that Ryan or I had. Since I have done so much research, I really didn't have a lot to ask him, other than "when the heck can I get in?"
Drum roll please.......I am scheduled for surgery on Wednesday, August 15, 2001!!!! I could barely contain my excitement!!! I am still very nervous about the whole procedure but I know this is something I HAVE to do for myself. In the weeks to come I will be busy with other tests for the surgery: gall bladder ultrasound, chest x-rays, and other tests performed by my regular physician.
After examining me, Dr. Schwartz said that he was fairly certain he could perform my surgery laparoscopically but there is a chance (as always) that he would have to open me up. You see, I carry all my weight in my upper abdomen and this means that I more than likely have a fatty liver and the lap tools can only handle so much. Dr. Schwartz suggested that even if I could lose 10 lbs. before surgery, this would increase the chance that he could perform lap successfully!
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July 19, 2001 UPDATE!
Good Lord! Let me get something out of the way - I can handle needles, pin pricks, and blood, but this morning I almost lost it! I had to have my gall bladder ultrasound and it hurt, hurt, hurt! They kept asking me to take deep breaths and hold them, then they kept jabbing me! Why didn't they just kick box me?Ouch! Maybe I am just a wimp but it was so uncomfortable! Oh well, all testing is done as of right now - chest x-rays, ultrasounds, blood work, urinalysis, etc. So, now I just wait for my surgery day and try to prepare as best I can!
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August 2, 2001 UPDATE!
AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!! Bad news!!! I just called Dr. Schwartz's office and I asked if they had received my pre-op tests from my clinic and they have. It turns out that I have a urinary tract infection and my own doctor's office didn't even tell me! I am so so frustrated right now! Luckily I checked into this early enough that I will be put on antibiotics for seven days and hopefully these will clear up the problem! Also, elevated levels of something were found in my liver so Dr. Schwartz asked that I get a CT Scan of my liver (what fun - more tests)!!!! I am PRAYING, HOPING that I do not have to have the surgery open! I am so ready to cry right now. If you are reading this and believe in prayer, PLEASE PRAY FOR ME! Thank you!!!! : )
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August 6, 2001 UPDATE!
D R A M A ! That is the word for my afternoon. I hate IVs! I had my CT Scan this afternoon and the nurse had to stick me THREE times before she found a decent vein for my IV. Besides that part, it was painless. The liquid they pump into your veins is so weird since it makes you feel hot and tingly! Dr. Schwartz's office will receive my scan results tomorrow so I am hoping and praying that everything looks okay! I also talked to Kiara today and she is doing fairly well although she has had the dry heaves and really has no energy; she has lost 10 pounds in one week! WOW! She also told me that the aftercare at Abbott really stank! I have heard this from other people as well. If that is the case, I will give those nurses a piece of my mind...that is their job! Let's get with it....chop chop!! : )
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August 8, 2001 UPDATE!
Yesterday I found out the results of my CT Scan; overall my liver is normal - no lesions, etc. but there was evidence of a fatty liver. Dr. Schwartz won't be in the office until Monday so I am anxious to hear what he has to say. I hope that he can still perform laparoscopically! I am very nervous at this point.
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August 10, 2001 UPDATE!
I went in for my final Urinalysis today and although I was previously told that I would have to wait three days for the results, I found out in five minutes. It appears as though my bladder infection is gone even though there are still a few white blood cells present (whatever that means). I had my doctor fax over the results to my surgeon's office to see what they say. I pray that everything is ready to go! I am so so ready for this surgery and have been preparing forever!
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August 13, 2001 UPDATE!
Let's not beat around the bush - I am scared POOPLESS! I can't believe that my surgery is in less than 48 hours! Dr. Schwartz's office is waiting to receive my UA results from my doctor's office. Hopefully they will have the results sometime today. This is scary. If anyone has any words of encouragement, send them my way! Okay, back to work. I have a lot to finish up here before I leave! Buh-bye.
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August 14, 2001 UPDATE!
Well, the big event is less than 12 hours away! I can't believe it! I drank my "gin and colonic" (i.e. mag citrate laxative) this afternoon and my, oh my, does that do a number on you. I talked to Dr. Schwartz's office this morning, as well as my doctor's office, and it appears that my bladder infection is not totally cleared up but Dr. Schwartz said he will still perform surgery on me and treat me with antibiotics through my IV. My only concern right now is whether the procedure will be done lap or open. I guess I won't really know until I wake up. I am sure it will all work out. At this point all my emotions are exhausted: nervousness, anxiousness, excitement. I am just sort of numb right now - just want it to happen and to be over with. I would like to thank the several people who will be going through the WLS journey, or who have already been, that have encouraged me and written to me! This truly is a great site! I would feel alone without it! Well, I will try to have my hubby check in for me sometime tomorrow!!! Wow, this is really happening!!! God has given me a peace about this and I am ready! BRING IT ON BABY!
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August 16, 2001 UPDATE
I'm done! Surgery is over with! I was 268 lbs right before surgery (fully clothed). It wasn't as bad as I thought it was going to be and there were absolutely NO complications. The procedure was done lap and I kept my gallbladder. I didn't even panick the day of surgery - I was as calm as can be and the last thing I remember before going under is the mask over my face and then I remember waking up in recovery with some great nurses (there were great nurses at Abbott for my whole hospital stay - lucky me). I was discharged today (the day after surgery) at 2:30 p.m. - I think the walking around a lot helps. I ran into several people at the hospital from this website (and ossgmn.com) - Lori, Callie, Pat, Kathy, and my angel, Pamela. It was a lot of fun getting to know these girls and they were so supportive! Well, I should get going and try to heal up a bit. I am actually laying in my own bed which feels so so good (I was worried that I would have to be in a recliner for two weeks). Thanks everyone for all your support!
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August 25, 2001 UPDATE!
Well, it is time for an update, huh? As of today, I am down about 13 lbs. or so - that is more than one pound a day! Wow! The healing process can be a bit frustrating. There were a few nights when I couldn't fall asleep because the only way I could sleep was on my back. I woke myself up snoring! Hello! But now I am finally able to sleep on my side with a few pillows tucked around my sides and have been sleeping very well! I still have pain and discomfort so I try not to over-do it. Sometimes it is hard to stay encouraged but I keep telling myself I did this for a reason. I just can't wait until all the pain is gone and I can return to normal activities! I may go back into work on Monday (it has been less than two weeks) for half a day or so just because I am getting so bored at home! : ) I even went to a wedding last night but only stayed for the ceremony.
Some of the other things I have been struggling with are how am I going to resist sugary/greasy foods once I venture out into the real world again? Then I tell myself that if I can lose 13 lbs. in ten days this surgery is definitely worth it. I have to keep my eyes on the prize - I need/want to be a healthy woman who is confident in herself. There are also times when I wonder if I can eat too much. At times I eat and know I could eat more and don't necessarily experience that full/satisified feeling but I can say that I rarely experience hunger pains. Perhaps my tummy is trying to decipher from gas pains, surgical wounds, and hunger. I hope it gets better and that this surgery is a success for me! Okay, well, that's all for now. Thanks for checking in!
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August 30, 2001 UPDATE!
Well, yesterday was my first day back at work (it has been two weeks). I am working half days for the rest of the week but I think even that is too much! I am having all sorts of new aches and pains (lucky me). My muscles (and liver) are trying to readjust and get back into place - that is what my doc's office told me. When I make the slightest move, BAM, pain. At least it is labor day weekend and I will have an extra day to myself. I am fortunate that I have an understanding boss though. Eating has been going pretty well but I get paranoid that I'm eating too much sometimes since I don't necessarily get full after a few bites but then I think about what I used to be able to eat and realize how far I have come. My cravings for greasy/sweet foods are disappearing slowly but surely as well. Well, that's all for now! Nothing too exciting! My first check-up with Dr. Schwartz is on September 14th - I will find out how much weight I have "officially" lost then.
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September 4, 2001 UPDATE!
I am still having pain near my liver and my incision on my right side. I called Dr. Schwartz's office today since the pain has not subsided and I also mentioned to Judith that I have been running a temperature anywhere from 99.3 - 100.7. She said this wasn't normal so I am seeing Kelly tomorrow at 1:00 p.m. I hope to find out then what exactly is wrong with me (if anything). I also hope to see how much weight I am "officially" down. I am back at work today full-time (if I can handle it). I seem to have more energy than last week but I am actually looking forward to the B-12 shots since people report that the shots give them a big boost of energy! Okay, that's all for now. Buh-bye.
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September 17, 2001 UPDATE!
I had my one month checkup on 9/14 and I have lost 28.2 pounds! Wow! And I thought this surgery wouldn't work for me. That is about 100 more pounds to my goal weight of 135-140 lbs. I learned how to inject my B-12 shots as well and they are relatively painless. I also found out that my high temperature was related to a bladder infection that I still had! I went on antiobiotics for the third time and I'm not even sure if the infection is gone yet! I also developed a nasty yeast infection on my tummy near my incisions (you are more prone to these types of infections after being on antibiotics) and it spread throughout my whole abdominal area! It is finally clearing up after applying medication to the infected area for over a week! I itched like crazy! Gross! Things have been going well overall as far as eating is concerned. I try to stay away from breads and try to get my protein in first. Getting 60 ounces of water in each day is sometimes a challenge but I try! Well, that's all for now!
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September 28, 2001 UPDATE!
I have much more energy lately which is great! I am back to work full-time also. Eating has been going pretty well although when I eat too fast sometimes I pay for it. I have also been starting to exercise - walking on a trail near my house. I think I am on another plateau again though but I know it will soon disappear. So far I am down - 34.2 lbs. One of my concerns though is the upcoming weddings that I am in! I can't even fit into one of the bridesmaid dresses I bought and that wedding is on October 27th - yikes! I might have to get the dress let out. Some good news though is that I went shopping for some new clothes and I no longer had to go to the fattest size in the store! Whoopee! Okay, that's all for now. I should get back to work.
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October 14, 2001 UPDATE!
Well, I am down 41 pounds in two months! This is very exciting but sometimes I get impatient and just want all the weight to come off overnight since my weight loss is slowing a bit. I am just grateful that I even had the opportunity to have surgery! I remember all those people who have to battle their insurance companies or those that don't even have insurance. Things have been going very well overall with eating - it seems like I can eat anything without any problems now (I do have to be careful to chew slowly though). I am still careful not to eat too much sugar though since I did have one episode early on with sugar but it seems to have gotten better. I injected my second B-12 shot a few days ago but it wasn't that bad (I hope it pumps up my energy a bit). I have to go so I can get over this cold that I came down with on Saturday. Only 17 more days until Ryan and I go to Florida! Should be a good time!
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November 6, 2001 UPDATE!
Hello all! Well, Ryan and I returned from our vacation in Florida on Sunday - it was such a nice time and I could actually fit into the airplane seats! That may seem small to someone who is not overweight, but I'm sure several people reading this can identify with not being able to fit into small seats like that at one time or another. Eating went pretty well although we went to a very upscale restaurant one night and I could barely eat anything - I felt bad but Ryan understood of course. : ) I kind of ate a lot of grease and "not so good" foods but I still managed to lose .5 pounds. Now that we are home I am returning to my normal healthy eating patterns (thank goodness). Also, I received my hospital bill (I opened it with my eyes closed) but it was what I was expecting: around $2400 (80% of expenses were covered). Well, not much else to share at this time. There is not a day that goes by that I don't feel lucky to have had this surgery! Oh yes - I am down a total of 52 pounds in almost three months (I weigh 216 now). : ) I can't wait until I get into the "1X Club" and weigh under 200!!!
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November 13, 2001 UPDATE!
Things have been going relatively well as far as weight loss is concerned although it is slowing down quite a bit but that is to be expected. I have been getting out of the good habits I set up for myself at first - no snacking and no drinking water with meals although I usually do pretty well. I was in a wedding this weekend and I saw people that I haven't seen in quite awhile and they commented that I was "looking good" so that was encouraging. Only 70 more pounds to go until goal. I'm getting close!
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December 24, 2001 UPDATE!
Well hot dog! I am finally under 200 pounds and I currently weigh 197! I never thought I would see this day again! The last time I weighed this was my sophomore year of college in 1996 - five years ago! It feels so great! Now I only have 57 more pounds to go until my goal of 140! 71.5 pounds gone forever! Merry Christmas to me! I am so glad I did this!
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January 23, 2002 UPDATE!
Today I am at 186 pounds! Only 46 more pounds to go until my goal of 140!
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February 5, 2002 UPDATE!
About a month and a half ago I was put on paxil which is an antidepressant. After being on it for about a month, I noticed that I was not losing any weight. I wasn't sure whether this could be attributed to a major plateau or the fact that some people tend to gain weight with certain antidepressants. I did some research and found that many patients (both pre-op and post-op) have gained weight while being on paxil. I have chosen to wean myself off of the paxil to see if that affects my weight loss at all. I am planning on researching other antidepressant options to make sure I am on the correct one for me. Weaning yourself off of this medication is not fun! I am so tired, have a fever, I am cranky, and I feel like I could sleep all day. Not fun! Hopefully this will dissipate soon! Blah!
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February 19, 2002 UPDATE!!!
SIX MONTH UPDATE! DOWN 89.5 LBS. - 39.5 LBS. TO GO UNTIL GOAL!
No longer do I walk down the street and wonder if people are looking at me because I am fat and out of breath. I now wonder if they are looking because they think I am an attractive and confident woman. No longer do I have problems fitting into my office's conference room chairs but I now have room to spare. I am able to fit into plane seats; I found this out when my husband and I took a trip to Florida in October - what a feeling that was. No longer do I have to stroll over to the biggest size at "Lane Giant" (okay, Lane Bryant) and feel bad for myself...wondering when I would have to start shopping out of catalogs. No longer do I have to size up chairs at the doctor's office, wondering if they will accommodate me. No longer do I have to pretend to wear the seatbelts in my friends' cars because they really didn't fit me.
This world is cruel to obese people - that is a fact. I think I am even more frustrated now with the ideals we are left to contend with. I notice more people willing to help me when I go shopping, more men looking at me, more people complimenting me, and an overall attitude of more respect from people. If these people only knew half of the hurt that obese people face, I believe they would have a different attitude regarding obese individuals. As has been said so many times before, discrimination against fat people is one of the few legal forms of discrimination remaining in this country.
I am so glad that I took the giant leap and decided to have surgery. I knew that this was one of my last options for losing weight, keeping it off, and a way to maintain my good health. Thank God for this surgery and thank God for talented and understanding surgeons.
Yes, I have been through it all - like most post-ops. The nice foamy white spit, dumping (oh how dramatic that was - I thought I was going to croak), getting food stuck, gas pains, the healing process, and re-learning how to eat, just to name a few. No matter what I was dealing with I had the support of my family and friends - thank goodness for this!
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March 15, 2002 UPDATE!!!
My weight loss is slowing down dramatically. I have only dropped 6 pounds this month but that is better than nothing! Only 35 pounds to go until my goal of 140!
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April 12, 2002
I AM DOWN 100 POUNDS TODAY! 168.5!!! 28.5 to goal!
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April 15, 2002
8 MONTHS and down 101.5 pounds! I am at 167 lbs. today and that means only 27 pounds to go until goal! This surgery is a trip! Also, my mom had surgery on April 5 and she is doing amazingly well! I can't believe how well she has recovered. She is down quite a significant amount for only being 10 days out of surgery and her blood sugars are way down so I am sure her Type II Diabetes will soon dissipate.
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May 17, 2002
Today I weigh 160.5 pounds! This journey has been incredible. I have been considering different plastic surgery options lately (tummy tuck and breast reduction). I just want to research the procedures, the costs, and other information. If I did decide to pursue surgery, it would be like starting all over again (like gathering information for WLS). We will see what happens! Only 20.5 lbs. to go until my goal! Exciting! Now if I could just get rid of these grandma boobs!
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June 13, 2002
Well today I weighed in at 154.5 lbs.!! Wow!!! I also went shopping the other day and fit into a size 12 at The Gap. Granted, I did look like a stuffed sausage but the size 14 was just too big! Today I meet with Dr. Dressel, a plastic surgeon who my WLS surgeon recommended. I am excited and anxious. From what I have heard, I do not need prior approval for the breast reduction, but I do need prior approval for the tummy tuck. I am hoping to have the procedures done at the same time if possible.
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June 17, 2002
Ten months and down 114.5 pounds! Incredible. Only 14 more pounds to go until goal! I met with Dr. Dressel last week and was very unimpressed as their staff, as well as the doctor, were very rushed and unprofessional. I was also told that I would not be approved for a breast reduction because I would go from a D cup to an A cup (they have to remove so much tissue); I would be a better candidate for a breast lift but getting this approved through insurance might be tough. I will concentrate on the tummy tuck for now. I am meeting with Dr. Gervais on June 24th and I am hoping this meeting will go much better. That's all for now!
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June 24, 2002
Today I met with Dr. Gervais and I was very impressed! His staff was very professional and he took the time to answer all of my questions and to explain the abdomnioplasty procedure. One of the nurses told me that she has never seen a tummy tuck denied through Medica Choice following a gastric bypass procedure. I am so excited! Now I just wait for the official approval from Medica and from there I will schedule surgery. The breasts are a different issue. I wouldn't qualify for a breast reduction; I would need a breast lift which would most likely not be covered by insurance (but they are still submitting the information for this procedure). At least I am starting somewhere! I am close to the finished product! Yeah me!
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July 24, 2002
I found out yesterday that I was approved for my panni (tummy tuck). I believe I will still have to pay 20% out of pocket!! I am so excited! Now I just need to decide whether I will schedule right away or wait to see how much more weight I can get off myself! : )
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August 7, 2002
My tummy tuck is scheduled for September 3rd! Wow! Today I weighed in at 147 lbs! This journey has been amazing! : )
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August 15, 3003
A year ago today I was being wheeled into the operating room to have my gastric bypass surgery. I remember asking God to "please let this work." Well, guess what? It did work! To date I have lost 121.5 pounds (that's a person!!!) and I am just 7 pounds away from my goal of 140! It is all thanks to family, friends, and God that I made it this far. I am so thankful for WLS and for gifted and talented surgeons. I have gotten my life back!
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September 5, 2002
I had my tummy tuck and wow! They took nearly 5 pounds off of hanging skin! I can't believe my new little flat tummy! I will share before and after pics once I receive them! I am so glad I did this! The pain was a lot less with this procedure than with the bypass!
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October 16, 2002
I have been at my goal weight for a few weeks now (actually just under) at 138.5 pounds! What a miracle! My recovery from the tummy tuck went wonderfully and yes, I would do it again!
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November 12, 2002
Holding steady at 136 pounds!
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January 16, 2003
I have been having pretty severe stomach pains for the past two months and I have been to three different docs. I finally went to visit my weight loss surgeon's office and they were busy running tests on me; I also have a gallbladder ultrasound next week. Still holding at 136! Very happy!
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April 2, 2003
I have been sick with strep throat and tonsillitus (no fun) so I have lost an additional five pounds! I'm at 131! Not sure if the weight will come back or not but my pants are starting to fall off of me again! I don't want to get too thin!
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May 16, 2003
Things are going pretty well and my weight has stabilized from anywhere between 131 lbs. and 135 lbs. I have decided to have more excess skin removed in the vertical direction on my stomach; the abdomnioplasty took care of the skin on my lower half but now I am left with what looks like a butt on my stomach (because of the way my extra skin lays). This will not be covered by insurance but this is something that I need to do for myself to feel like a "finished product." I am currently a size 8 and am very happy with this! This surgery is the best! : )
I'VE ADDED MORE UPDATES TO MY HOMEPAGE AT http://www.angelfire.com/la3/hughes. Please visit me soon! : )
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December 8, 2004
Long time, no update! On November 1, 2004, I underwent a breast lift and augmentation with Dr. Gervais. I have pics posted on my website but you will need the specific ("secret") link to see them. E-mail me and I'll share. Life is good! Everyday is a blessing and I remain so thankful for this surgery!
8/15/01 (DAY OF SURGERY): #268.5 lbs.
1 Month - 9/15/01: #240 lbs.
2 Months - 10/15/01: #224 lbs.
3 Months - 11/15/01: #212 lbs.
4 Months - 12/15/01: #200 lbs.
5 Months - 1/15/02: #190 lbs.
6 Months - 2/15/02: #181 lbs.
7 Months - 3/15/02: #175 lbs.
8 Months - 4/15/02: #167 lbs.
9 Months - 5/15/02: #162 lbs.
10 Months - 6/15/02: #154 lbs.
11 Months - 7/15/02: #151 lbs.
12 Months - 8/15/02: #146 lbs.
13 Months - 9/15/02: #143 lbs.
14 Months - 10/15/02: #138.5 lbs. (-4.5 lbs. - tummy tuck) GOAL WEIGHT ACHIEVED!!!
15 Months - 11/15/02: #136 lbs.
16 Months - 12/15/02: #136 lbs.
17 Months - 1/15/03: #136 lbs. I think I'm done losing but I am so happy with where I am!!!
18 Months - 2/15/03: #136 lbs.
19 Months - 3/15/03: #131 lbs.
20 Months - 4/15/03: #134 lbs.
21 Months - 5/15/03: #134 lbs.
25 Months - 9/15/03: #134 lbs.!!!
26 Months - 10/15/03: #136 lbs.
30 Months - 2/15/04: #140 lbs.
TOTAL LOSS THUS FAR: -128.5 lbs.
STARTING BMI: 43.3
CURRENT BMI: 22.0
My name is Leah and I am 25 years old. I have lived in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area all my life and have also been overweight all of my life. I understand the struggles other morbidly obese people face and know how hard it can be to live in such a large body and to face ridicule and unfair judgement everyday.
I learned of bariatric sugery this winter (2000 - 2001) and went to two informational sessions for area hospitals. I decided to go with Dr. Schwartz/Dr. Drew at Abbott Northwestern Hospital in Minneapolis since they perform gastric bypass laparoscopically. I am fortunate because I was approved upon my first letter to Medica Choice; this of course, is all thanks to Judith Schwartz, the nurse at Abbott.
I am scheduled to meet with Dr. Schwartz on Thursday, June 14th, 2001. I am excited because this is when we will schedule my surgery date!!
Wish me luck!
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June 15, 2001 UPDATE!
My husband and I met with Dr. Schwartz for the first time today. He seems to be very competent; he is very straightforward and was willing to answer any questions that Ryan or I had. Since I have done so much research, I really didn't have a lot to ask him, other than "when the heck can I get in?"
Drum roll please.......I am scheduled for surgery on Wednesday, August 15, 2001!!!! I could barely contain my excitement!!! I am still very nervous about the whole procedure but I know this is something I HAVE to do for myself. In the weeks to come I will be busy with other tests for the surgery: gall bladder ultrasound, chest x-rays, and other tests performed by my regular physician.
After examining me, Dr. Schwartz said that he was fairly certain he could perform my surgery laparoscopically but there is a chance (as always) that he would have to open me up. You see, I carry all my weight in my upper abdomen and this means that I more than likely have a fatty liver and the lap tools can only handle so much. Dr. Schwartz suggested that even if I could lose 10 lbs. before surgery, this would increase the chance that he could perform lap successfully!
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July 19, 2001 UPDATE!
Good Lord! Let me get something out of the way - I can handle needles, pin pricks, and blood, but this morning I almost lost it! I had to have my gall bladder ultrasound and it hurt, hurt, hurt! They kept asking me to take deep breaths and hold them, then they kept jabbing me! Why didn't they just kick box me?Ouch! Maybe I am just a wimp but it was so uncomfortable! Oh well, all testing is done as of right now - chest x-rays, ultrasounds, blood work, urinalysis, etc. So, now I just wait for my surgery day and try to prepare as best I can!
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August 2, 2001 UPDATE!
AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!! Bad news!!! I just called Dr. Schwartz's office and I asked if they had received my pre-op tests from my clinic and they have. It turns out that I have a urinary tract infection and my own doctor's office didn't even tell me! I am so so frustrated right now! Luckily I checked into this early enough that I will be put on antibiotics for seven days and hopefully these will clear up the problem! Also, elevated levels of something were found in my liver so Dr. Schwartz asked that I get a CT Scan of my liver (what fun - more tests)!!!! I am PRAYING, HOPING that I do not have to have the surgery open! I am so ready to cry right now. If you are reading this and believe in prayer, PLEASE PRAY FOR ME! Thank you!!!! : )
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August 6, 2001 UPDATE!
D R A M A ! That is the word for my afternoon. I hate IVs! I had my CT Scan this afternoon and the nurse had to stick me THREE times before she found a decent vein for my IV. Besides that part, it was painless. The liquid they pump into your veins is so weird since it makes you feel hot and tingly! Dr. Schwartz's office will receive my scan results tomorrow so I am hoping and praying that everything looks okay! I also talked to Kiara today and she is doing fairly well although she has had the dry heaves and really has no energy; she has lost 10 pounds in one week! WOW! She also told me that the aftercare at Abbott really stank! I have heard this from other people as well. If that is the case, I will give those nurses a piece of my mind...that is their job! Let's get with it....chop chop!! : )
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August 8, 2001 UPDATE!
Yesterday I found out the results of my CT Scan; overall my liver is normal - no lesions, etc. but there was evidence of a fatty liver. Dr. Schwartz won't be in the office until Monday so I am anxious to hear what he has to say. I hope that he can still perform laparoscopically! I am very nervous at this point.
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August 10, 2001 UPDATE!
I went in for my final Urinalysis today and although I was previously told that I would have to wait three days for the results, I found out in five minutes. It appears as though my bladder infection is gone even though there are still a few white blood cells present (whatever that means). I had my doctor fax over the results to my surgeon's office to see what they say. I pray that everything is ready to go! I am so so ready for this surgery and have been preparing forever!
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August 13, 2001 UPDATE!
Let's not beat around the bush - I am scared POOPLESS! I can't believe that my surgery is in less than 48 hours! Dr. Schwartz's office is waiting to receive my UA results from my doctor's office. Hopefully they will have the results sometime today. This is scary. If anyone has any words of encouragement, send them my way! Okay, back to work. I have a lot to finish up here before I leave! Buh-bye.
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August 14, 2001 UPDATE!
Well, the big event is less than 12 hours away! I can't believe it! I drank my "gin and colonic" (i.e. mag citrate laxative) this afternoon and my, oh my, does that do a number on you. I talked to Dr. Schwartz's office this morning, as well as my doctor's office, and it appears that my bladder infection is not totally cleared up but Dr. Schwartz said he will still perform surgery on me and treat me with antibiotics through my IV. My only concern right now is whether the procedure will be done lap or open. I guess I won't really know until I wake up. I am sure it will all work out. At this point all my emotions are exhausted: nervousness, anxiousness, excitement. I am just sort of numb right now - just want it to happen and to be over with. I would like to thank the several people who will be going through the WLS journey, or who have already been, that have encouraged me and written to me! This truly is a great site! I would feel alone without it! Well, I will try to have my hubby check in for me sometime tomorrow!!! Wow, this is really happening!!! God has given me a peace about this and I am ready! BRING IT ON BABY!
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August 16, 2001 UPDATE
I'm done! Surgery is over with! I was 268 lbs right before surgery (fully clothed). It wasn't as bad as I thought it was going to be and there were absolutely NO complications. The procedure was done lap and I kept my gallbladder. I didn't even panick the day of surgery - I was as calm as can be and the last thing I remember before going under is the mask over my face and then I remember waking up in recovery with some great nurses (there were great nurses at Abbott for my whole hospital stay - lucky me). I was discharged today (the day after surgery) at 2:30 p.m. - I think the walking around a lot helps. I ran into several people at the hospital from this website (and ossgmn.com) - Lori, Callie, Pat, Kathy, and my angel, Pamela. It was a lot of fun getting to know these girls and they were so supportive! Well, I should get going and try to heal up a bit. I am actually laying in my own bed which feels so so good (I was worried that I would have to be in a recliner for two weeks). Thanks everyone for all your support!
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August 25, 2001 UPDATE!
Well, it is time for an update, huh? As of today, I am down about 13 lbs. or so - that is more than one pound a day! Wow! The healing process can be a bit frustrating. There were a few nights when I couldn't fall asleep because the only way I could sleep was on my back. I woke myself up snoring! Hello! But now I am finally able to sleep on my side with a few pillows tucked around my sides and have been sleeping very well! I still have pain and discomfort so I try not to over-do it. Sometimes it is hard to stay encouraged but I keep telling myself I did this for a reason. I just can't wait until all the pain is gone and I can return to normal activities! I may go back into work on Monday (it has been less than two weeks) for half a day or so just because I am getting so bored at home! : ) I even went to a wedding last night but only stayed for the ceremony.
Some of the other things I have been struggling with are how am I going to resist sugary/greasy foods once I venture out into the real world again? Then I tell myself that if I can lose 13 lbs. in ten days this surgery is definitely worth it. I have to keep my eyes on the prize - I need/want to be a healthy woman who is confident in herself. There are also times when I wonder if I can eat too much. At times I eat and know I could eat more and don't necessarily experience that full/satisified feeling but I can say that I rarely experience hunger pains. Perhaps my tummy is trying to decipher from gas pains, surgical wounds, and hunger. I hope it gets better and that this surgery is a success for me! Okay, well, that's all for now. Thanks for checking in!
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August 30, 2001 UPDATE!
Well, yesterday was my first day back at work (it has been two weeks). I am working half days for the rest of the week but I think even that is too much! I am having all sorts of new aches and pains (lucky me). My muscles (and liver) are trying to readjust and get back into place - that is what my doc's office told me. When I make the slightest move, BAM, pain. At least it is labor day weekend and I will have an extra day to myself. I am fortunate that I have an understanding boss though. Eating has been going pretty well but I get paranoid that I'm eating too much sometimes since I don't necessarily get full after a few bites but then I think about what I used to be able to eat and realize how far I have come. My cravings for greasy/sweet foods are disappearing slowly but surely as well. Well, that's all for now! Nothing too exciting! My first check-up with Dr. Schwartz is on September 14th - I will find out how much weight I have "officially" lost then.
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September 4, 2001 UPDATE!
I am still having pain near my liver and my incision on my right side. I called Dr. Schwartz's office today since the pain has not subsided and I also mentioned to Judith that I have been running a temperature anywhere from 99.3 - 100.7. She said this wasn't normal so I am seeing Kelly tomorrow at 1:00 p.m. I hope to find out then what exactly is wrong with me (if anything). I also hope to see how much weight I am "officially" down. I am back at work today full-time (if I can handle it). I seem to have more energy than last week but I am actually looking forward to the B-12 shots since people report that the shots give them a big boost of energy! Okay, that's all for now. Buh-bye.
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September 17, 2001 UPDATE!
I had my one month checkup on 9/14 and I have lost 28.2 pounds! Wow! And I thought this surgery wouldn't work for me. That is about 100 more pounds to my goal weight of 135-140 lbs. I learned how to inject my B-12 shots as well and they are relatively painless. I also found out that my high temperature was related to a bladder infection that I still had! I went on antiobiotics for the third time and I'm not even sure if the infection is gone yet! I also developed a nasty yeast infection on my tummy near my incisions (you are more prone to these types of infections after being on antibiotics) and it spread throughout my whole abdominal area! It is finally clearing up after applying medication to the infected area for over a week! I itched like crazy! Gross! Things have been going well overall as far as eating is concerned. I try to stay away from breads and try to get my protein in first. Getting 60 ounces of water in each day is sometimes a challenge but I try! Well, that's all for now!
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September 28, 2001 UPDATE!
I have much more energy lately which is great! I am back to work full-time also. Eating has been going pretty well although when I eat too fast sometimes I pay for it. I have also been starting to exercise - walking on a trail near my house. I think I am on another plateau again though but I know it will soon disappear. So far I am down - 34.2 lbs. One of my concerns though is the upcoming weddings that I am in! I can't even fit into one of the bridesmaid dresses I bought and that wedding is on October 27th - yikes! I might have to get the dress let out. Some good news though is that I went shopping for some new clothes and I no longer had to go to the fattest size in the store! Whoopee! Okay, that's all for now. I should get back to work.
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October 14, 2001 UPDATE!
Well, I am down 41 pounds in two months! This is very exciting but sometimes I get impatient and just want all the weight to come off overnight since my weight loss is slowing a bit. I am just grateful that I even had the opportunity to have surgery! I remember all those people who have to battle their insurance companies or those that don't even have insurance. Things have been going very well overall with eating - it seems like I can eat anything without any problems now (I do have to be careful to chew slowly though). I am still careful not to eat too much sugar though since I did have one episode early on with sugar but it seems to have gotten better. I injected my second B-12 shot a few days ago but it wasn't that bad (I hope it pumps up my energy a bit). I have to go so I can get over this cold that I came down with on Saturday. Only 17 more days until Ryan and I go to Florida! Should be a good time!
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November 6, 2001 UPDATE!
Hello all! Well, Ryan and I returned from our vacation in Florida on Sunday - it was such a nice time and I could actually fit into the airplane seats! That may seem small to someone who is not overweight, but I'm sure several people reading this can identify with not being able to fit into small seats like that at one time or another. Eating went pretty well although we went to a very upscale restaurant one night and I could barely eat anything - I felt bad but Ryan understood of course. : ) I kind of ate a lot of grease and "not so good" foods but I still managed to lose .5 pounds. Now that we are home I am returning to my normal healthy eating patterns (thank goodness). Also, I received my hospital bill (I opened it with my eyes closed) but it was what I was expecting: around $2400 (80% of expenses were covered). Well, not much else to share at this time. There is not a day that goes by that I don't feel lucky to have had this surgery! Oh yes - I am down a total of 52 pounds in almost three months (I weigh 216 now). : ) I can't wait until I get into the "1X Club" and weigh under 200!!!
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November 13, 2001 UPDATE!
Things have been going relatively well as far as weight loss is concerned although it is slowing down quite a bit but that is to be expected. I have been getting out of the good habits I set up for myself at first - no snacking and no drinking water with meals although I usually do pretty well. I was in a wedding this weekend and I saw people that I haven't seen in quite awhile and they commented that I was "looking good" so that was encouraging. Only 70 more pounds to go until goal. I'm getting close!
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December 24, 2001 UPDATE!
Well hot dog! I am finally under 200 pounds and I currently weigh 197! I never thought I would see this day again! The last time I weighed this was my sophomore year of college in 1996 - five years ago! It feels so great! Now I only have 57 more pounds to go until my goal of 140! 71.5 pounds gone forever! Merry Christmas to me! I am so glad I did this!
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January 23, 2002 UPDATE!
Today I am at 186 pounds! Only 46 more pounds to go until my goal of 140!
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February 5, 2002 UPDATE!
About a month and a half ago I was put on paxil which is an antidepressant. After being on it for about a month, I noticed that I was not losing any weight. I wasn't sure whether this could be attributed to a major plateau or the fact that some people tend to gain weight with certain antidepressants. I did some research and found that many patients (both pre-op and post-op) have gained weight while being on paxil. I have chosen to wean myself off of the paxil to see if that affects my weight loss at all. I am planning on researching other antidepressant options to make sure I am on the correct one for me. Weaning yourself off of this medication is not fun! I am so tired, have a fever, I am cranky, and I feel like I could sleep all day. Not fun! Hopefully this will dissipate soon! Blah!
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February 19, 2002 UPDATE!!!
SIX MONTH UPDATE! DOWN 89.5 LBS. - 39.5 LBS. TO GO UNTIL GOAL!
No longer do I walk down the street and wonder if people are looking at me because I am fat and out of breath. I now wonder if they are looking because they think I am an attractive and confident woman. No longer do I have problems fitting into my office's conference room chairs but I now have room to spare. I am able to fit into plane seats; I found this out when my husband and I took a trip to Florida in October - what a feeling that was. No longer do I have to stroll over to the biggest size at "Lane Giant" (okay, Lane Bryant) and feel bad for myself...wondering when I would have to start shopping out of catalogs. No longer do I have to size up chairs at the doctor's office, wondering if they will accommodate me. No longer do I have to pretend to wear the seatbelts in my friends' cars because they really didn't fit me.
This world is cruel to obese people - that is a fact. I think I am even more frustrated now with the ideals we are left to contend with. I notice more people willing to help me when I go shopping, more men looking at me, more people complimenting me, and an overall attitude of more respect from people. If these people only knew half of the hurt that obese people face, I believe they would have a different attitude regarding obese individuals. As has been said so many times before, discrimination against fat people is one of the few legal forms of discrimination remaining in this country.
I am so glad that I took the giant leap and decided to have surgery. I knew that this was one of my last options for losing weight, keeping it off, and a way to maintain my good health. Thank God for this surgery and thank God for talented and understanding surgeons.
Yes, I have been through it all - like most post-ops. The nice foamy white spit, dumping (oh how dramatic that was - I thought I was going to croak), getting food stuck, gas pains, the healing process, and re-learning how to eat, just to name a few. No matter what I was dealing with I had the support of my family and friends - thank goodness for this!
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March 15, 2002 UPDATE!!!
My weight loss is slowing down dramatically. I have only dropped 6 pounds this month but that is better than nothing! Only 35 pounds to go until my goal of 140!
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April 12, 2002
I AM DOWN 100 POUNDS TODAY! 168.5!!! 28.5 to goal!
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April 15, 2002
8 MONTHS and down 101.5 pounds! I am at 167 lbs. today and that means only 27 pounds to go until goal! This surgery is a trip! Also, my mom had surgery on April 5 and she is doing amazingly well! I can't believe how well she has recovered. She is down quite a significant amount for only being 10 days out of surgery and her blood sugars are way down so I am sure her Type II Diabetes will soon dissipate.
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May 17, 2002
Today I weigh 160.5 pounds! This journey has been incredible. I have been considering different plastic surgery options lately (tummy tuck and breast reduction). I just want to research the procedures, the costs, and other information. If I did decide to pursue surgery, it would be like starting all over again (like gathering information for WLS). We will see what happens! Only 20.5 lbs. to go until my goal! Exciting! Now if I could just get rid of these grandma boobs!
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June 13, 2002
Well today I weighed in at 154.5 lbs.!! Wow!!! I also went shopping the other day and fit into a size 12 at The Gap. Granted, I did look like a stuffed sausage but the size 14 was just too big! Today I meet with Dr. Dressel, a plastic surgeon who my WLS surgeon recommended. I am excited and anxious. From what I have heard, I do not need prior approval for the breast reduction, but I do need prior approval for the tummy tuck. I am hoping to have the procedures done at the same time if possible.
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June 17, 2002
Ten months and down 114.5 pounds! Incredible. Only 14 more pounds to go until goal! I met with Dr. Dressel last week and was very unimpressed as their staff, as well as the doctor, were very rushed and unprofessional. I was also told that I would not be approved for a breast reduction because I would go from a D cup to an A cup (they have to remove so much tissue); I would be a better candidate for a breast lift but getting this approved through insurance might be tough. I will concentrate on the tummy tuck for now. I am meeting with Dr. Gervais on June 24th and I am hoping this meeting will go much better. That's all for now!
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June 24, 2002
Today I met with Dr. Gervais and I was very impressed! His staff was very professional and he took the time to answer all of my questions and to explain the abdomnioplasty procedure. One of the nurses told me that she has never seen a tummy tuck denied through Medica Choice following a gastric bypass procedure. I am so excited! Now I just wait for the official approval from Medica and from there I will schedule surgery. The breasts are a different issue. I wouldn't qualify for a breast reduction; I would need a breast lift which would most likely not be covered by insurance (but they are still submitting the information for this procedure). At least I am starting somewhere! I am close to the finished product! Yeah me!
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July 24, 2002
I found out yesterday that I was approved for my panni (tummy tuck). I believe I will still have to pay 20% out of pocket!! I am so excited! Now I just need to decide whether I will schedule right away or wait to see how much more weight I can get off myself! : )
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August 7, 2002
My tummy tuck is scheduled for September 3rd! Wow! Today I weighed in at 147 lbs! This journey has been amazing! : )
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August 15, 3003
A year ago today I was being wheeled into the operating room to have my gastric bypass surgery. I remember asking God to "please let this work." Well, guess what? It did work! To date I have lost 121.5 pounds (that's a person!!!) and I am just 7 pounds away from my goal of 140! It is all thanks to family, friends, and God that I made it this far. I am so thankful for WLS and for gifted and talented surgeons. I have gotten my life back!
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September 5, 2002
I had my tummy tuck and wow! They took nearly 5 pounds off of hanging skin! I can't believe my new little flat tummy! I will share before and after pics once I receive them! I am so glad I did this! The pain was a lot less with this procedure than with the bypass!
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October 16, 2002
I have been at my goal weight for a few weeks now (actually just under) at 138.5 pounds! What a miracle! My recovery from the tummy tuck went wonderfully and yes, I would do it again!
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November 12, 2002
Holding steady at 136 pounds!
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January 16, 2003
I have been having pretty severe stomach pains for the past two months and I have been to three different docs. I finally went to visit my weight loss surgeon's office and they were busy running tests on me; I also have a gallbladder ultrasound next week. Still holding at 136! Very happy!
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April 2, 2003
I have been sick with strep throat and tonsillitus (no fun) so I have lost an additional five pounds! I'm at 131! Not sure if the weight will come back or not but my pants are starting to fall off of me again! I don't want to get too thin!
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May 16, 2003
Things are going pretty well and my weight has stabilized from anywhere between 131 lbs. and 135 lbs. I have decided to have more excess skin removed in the vertical direction on my stomach; the abdomnioplasty took care of the skin on my lower half but now I am left with what looks like a butt on my stomach (because of the way my extra skin lays). This will not be covered by insurance but this is something that I need to do for myself to feel like a "finished product." I am currently a size 8 and am very happy with this! This surgery is the best! : )
I'VE ADDED MORE UPDATES TO MY HOMEPAGE AT http://www.angelfire.com/la3/hughes. Please visit me soon! : )
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December 8, 2004
Long time, no update! On November 1, 2004, I underwent a breast lift and augmentation with Dr. Gervais. I have pics posted on my website but you will need the specific ("secret") link to see them. E-mail me and I'll share. Life is good! Everyday is a blessing and I remain so thankful for this surgery!
About Me
Richfield, MN
Location
26.0
BMI
Surgery
08/15/2001
Surgery Date
Jan 14, 2001
Member Since
Before & After
rollover to see after photo
One Week Before Surgery - August 2001
268.5 lbs.lbs
