Pat R.
Where do I start? I am a wife (I have the most supportive, loving hubby in the world!!), a mother of three grown daughters, the grandmother of four (about to be five) wonderful grandbabies, and a retired teacher (29 years teaching sixth grade.) I am a Christian and I live in Texas, just outside Austin.
I am 52 years old and have struggled with my weight for the past 30 years. I have dieted with Nutrisystem (was even a national ad for them!), Optifast, Weight Watchers (multiple times), and TOPS and have followed everything from the diabetes diet to the Scarsdale and even had two nutritionists work with me for several months. I have yo-yoed so much; I am surprised there isn't a string trailing behind me!! I have some co-morbidities: type II diabetes, arthritis, high triglycerides and borderline high blood pressure to name the biggies.
My insurance company is Aetna PPO (TRS Care 3). When I started this (April 10), Dr. Dillawn and my primary care physician recommended a Lap Band. I gathered EVERYTHING I could about my weight loss history, and wrote a two-page letter to my insurance company that was sent along with both doctors' letters and medical records from other physicians who had supervised my weight loss attempts. I also sent along my Gold's Gym membership, my personal trainer’s notes from November 2002, my WW book, and anything else I could find to prove my attempts to lose on my own. My file went to Aetna on May 2. My first denial came on May 12 with the reason being "we don't cover Lap Band...only bypass", but the nurse at Aetna said my file was so complete, I could appeal without doing anything else other than telling him I wanted to. So, I told him I wanted to appeal it. Two days latter, the second denial...but they stated I was approved for RNY bypass or Vertical Band if I would care to change procedures. I spent that day on the Internet researching. I was able to see Dr. Dillawn again the following day. He spent an hour with my husband and me going over all our questions, and I made the decision to change procedures.
I have been to two support group meetings to talk to others who have had the RNY. I am now psyched and ready to go! Tomorrow (May 28), I have all my preops scheduled. I think it was incredible that they did them all in one day! I will have an ultra sound of my gall bladder, an echocardiogram, an EKG, see a nutritionist, see the anesthesiologist, and then visit a preop nurse. After all that...off to the psychologist! I probably will be NUTS by then....
I really am excited/scared all at the same time. I don't have a surgery date yet; the surgeon wants to see the results of the preops first. My middle daughter is 9 months pregnant, so we are trying to work around her, too. Soon, though....
May 29
Well, the preops went fine. I haven't heard from my surgeon regarding results, but all the folks conducting the tests said it all looked normal. Even the psychiatrist pronounced me sane (if he only knew....LOL).
But I have hit a stumbling block. Due to information given me while at my preops, I am reconsidering using this surgeon's group. I may look for more experienced surgeons even if I have to travel further. I checked with Aetna and was told that making the change would only involve resubmitting through another surgeon. Preops would be paid, both those done and those needed by a new surgeon if I decide to look for more experienced bariatric surgeons. I have a call in to Dr. Dillawn, but he has not returned it yet. Maybe tomorrow.
May 30
Today, I decided to call Bariatric Center of Texas. They offered me a July 8 appointment, and since my preops and insurance approval are done, put me at the top of the list for calling if anyone canceled an appointment. Well, 30 minutes later, lo and behold, they called back with an opening for this Monday, June 2!!! WOW! I am excited. Maybe this will work out!
June 2
Dr. Dillawn still hasn't returned my calls. :-(
Well, I went to the center and everything was very nice, except the price. Everywhere I read, the cost is about $25-30,000. At this center, it is $35 - 65,000! They are out of network with my insurance, so I would not only be responsible for the 20% that is my share, but ANYTHING higher than "usual and customary" fees. That is scary. I okayed them to contact my insurance and see what exactly this translates into. What a dilemma: I can afford one surgeon, but he lacks experience (I would be his fifth patient ever for this surgery)...the other offers experience, but I don't know if I can afford it. I hate this and am very frustrated. How do you put a price on your safety? But how can I not? We are on a fixed income, being retired. I am praying that God will find a way for this to work out. I just have to do this surgery!!!!!!
June 3
I called Aetna today and asked them to give me the names of bariatric surgeons who are IN NETWORK with them. She was unable to find a single one. I mentioned that it seems like they should be willing to pay out of network fees due to the fact that they have no participating bariatric surgeons. The rep told me "NO WAY" that would ever happen. :-( It seems like this just might not be for me.
Well, tonight I went to the support group meeting (what wonderful folks!) and although I was depressed going there, I am now feeling hopeful again. I found a surgeon who is in network with my insurance (He is a general surgeon, not listed as bariatric), very experienced (500+), liked by the three who have had him, and not too far away. YEAH! A winning combination! I went to his Website tonight (www.drnaaman.com Check it out!) and was very impressed with what I saw there. I will call in the morning and see if I can get in to see him.
PS I still haven't heard from Dr. Dillawn. :-(
June 4
Today, I called Dr. Naaman's office. They faxed me the application, which I completed and faxed back. I have to get my records from Dr. Dillawn sent to him and have scheduled an appointment for June 24. So, things will slow down for a little while, but that is OK. I will continue my low low carbohydrate diet and get myself into even better shape for the surgery. I called the Bariatric Center in Wylie and withdrew my file. Staying in network seems much safer financially.
June 17
Well, some time has passed, giving me time to rethink, research, and prepare. I have seen my primary care physician (she was opposed to me having this surgery and I was concerned that I might need to find a new one after this). She assured me that she would work with me to provide aftercare and does not want me to leave her. That made me feel a lot better. She agreed to get my records from Dr. Dillawn since he or his office still has not contacted me. She has all but the blood work now, and everything in my preops looked fine. I have a fatty liver, but that is expected in an obese person (DUH!!) Waiting for the blood work. She has changed my diabetic medication to get my sugar in better control prior to surgery. My last HA1C was 7.8...she says it is too close to 8 and at 8 I should not have any surgery. My sugars are MUCH better already, so that is good. I am looking forward to when I can say that WITHOUT taking MORE medication to make it true!!!
My support group (Pfamos...check out the website at pfamos.com) is an awesome group of people. I really enjoy the meetings and find them inspirational and helpful.
7 days to my consultation!!
June 24
Today, I had my consultation with Dr. Naaman. I weighed in at 304.6, am 5'4" tall, and have a BMI of 52.2. The consult went well; Dr. Naaman was informative, to the point, and I felt he was very competent. He answered all my questions patiently. He will be making a 2-ounce pouch with a little more than a proximal intestine length (due to my BMI being over 50). He doesn't require any diet prior to surgery; just 30 minutes of daily exercise and start taking two chewable Flintstone vitamins now. He will insert a drainage tube as a preventative measure (in case of a leak) and I have to stay in Houston until the day after that is removed (one week).
I was given an H.pylori bacteria test. (This bacterium lives in the stomach and can cause ulcers. When surgery occurs, the bacteria are disturbed. To prevent ulcers, if it is present, the patient takes antibiotics for 14 days before surgery happens.) I had to exhale into a couple of tubes, drink a sweet-tart drink, wait 10 minutes, and repeat the exhale test. I will have the results in 4 days.
Then I met with Amanda...she went over insurance approval procedure (since I already have approval, they just have to submit Dr. Naaman's procedure), preop expectations (since I have already had several test done, I will probably only need a blood work test), and the pre surgery expectations (walk, vitamin). One week prior to my surgery, I will be expected to return to Houston for preops, anesthesiologist consult, and to get my "BLUE FOLDER" with all the instructions in it. I also discussed my desire to have insurance pay for the hotel and requested that Dr.Naaman write the required letter of medical necessity.
Then it was on to Bernice! She is the financial wizard. She was well informed about my particular plan and since we have to pay 20%, had the figures we needed. All, of course, are tentative pending the actual surgery, but at least we have a ballpark figure. Total cost, before the insurance adjustments, is about $30,000. Of that, $6,200 goes to Naaman, $15-18,000 to the hospital, $2500 to one surgical assistant, and $1500 to the other assistant. Labs and anesthesiologist will also be added.
I left after an hour and a half, but felt like I was in competent hands. This doctor and his staff know what they are doing!
June 27
Amanda called today and I have a tentative surgery date! Woo Hoo!!!!!!!!! July 23 at 10:30 AM!!!! I am so excited!!! It depends on the results of my bacteria test (I should know that Monday), but for now, I am scheduled. I go back for preops on July 16.
Oh, how I pray I won't have that pesky bacteria!!!!!! I don't want to have to reschedule.
June 30
Praise God! No bacteria...I am a GO for surgery on July 23! I am so glad that stumbling block has been removed.
July 6
I feel like I am on an emotional roller coaster. I am looking forward to being skinny again, but scared to death about the surgery and the changes I am facing. I have lots of confidence in my surgeon and his past record, so that helps. There's just that nagging little thought ... "WHAT IF...." I am trying hard to shut those thoughts out, but they sneak in when I am not looking. I pray now for positive thinking.
July 16
I went for my preops today. Weighed in at 296.8.... and everyone was thrilled! Apparently, this is unusual...most gain weight prior to the surgery. Bernice in particular complimented me about this :-)
Julius went over all the preop and postop instructions and gave me my blue folder. It contains written instructions and a prescription for liquid pain meds. He patiently explained away any questions I had. One was about whether I would be given Heparin. He said they have a new test (in the past two weeks) that is given after you are asleep in the operating room. If the test reveals a problem, Heparin is given. Otherwise, no. They have the KISS (keep it simple stupid) approach and don't do anything that is NOT needed. I ended up in tears when the discussion about anesthesiologist came up. For some insane reason, this is an emotional trigger for me. Julius was very understanding and took extra time to explain things and try to soothe my fears. Since they are insane, that is hard to do! Then it was on to Amanda who noted where we would be staying in Houston and then to Bernice...who took our $600 deposit. She was wonderfully supportive.
Then it was off to the hospital for the preop tests and preadmission. Since I had so much done in Austin in May, I only had to have blood drawn. I met another lady in the waiting room who is scheduled for surgery an hour or so before me! We visited a bit, and then I was called in. The nurse went over the forms with me and I signed away my life! Then the trigger word "anesthesiologist" came up...and here came the tears again!!! It was embarrassing. I couldn't control them and had no rational reason for them. But the RN (first name Jean) was TERRIFIC. She immediately went and got an anesthesiologist doctor who came and talked to me. Dr. Weavind went over in detail everything that would happen. She was very reassuring. I asked if she would be my anesthesiologist and she said she was one in 6...but I could request her. So I did...and the nurse immediately made phone calls to make it a reality. It made me feel so much better. But I still cried! Once I start, it is hard to get me stopped; the nicer you are, the worse I cry. Terrible. Anyway, I did feel better, even if it didn't show! RN Jean...you are my hero!
Here are my preop instructions:
DAY BEFORE SURGERY:
1. Take 1 vioxx 50 mgs in the morning.
2. Drive to Houston
3. Take 1 Vioxx 50 mgs in the evening
4. Bath with Hex-a clens (all body except face)
5. Nothing by mouth after midnight.
MORNING OF SURGERY:
1. Bathe with Hex-a-clens
2. Check sugar. If > 160, take diabetes meds
3. Take 1 vioxx 50 mgs and take other meds as directed
4. Bring list of all meds and preadmission ticket to hospital
5. No makeup, jewelry, personal clothes
July 22
Well, 24 hours to go! I didn't sleep too well last night, but I figured that would happen. My digestive system seems to be balking at the upcoming events in my life. I feel pretty good as long as I don't eat! (Until my sugar goes low and I have to eat, that is!!) Anyway, my sweet hubby took me out last night for the "final fling". I wanted to do it two nights before rather than load up the night prior to surgery. We went to Texas Land and Cattle and ordered their most tender steak. YUM...sure was delicious! It was a treat for me, and I enjoyed every bite. I also had a loaded baked potato. So much for low carbs... Oh well! Dr. Naaman didn't require any dieting prior to surgery, so I gave myself the night off.
I am nervous, but feel more at peace with this than I did a week ago. I read other profiles on here and it seems like everyone was so happy going in. I guess I am the "Lone Ranger" on this apprehensive feeling. I hate the goodbyes the most...had to tell my daughters good-bye yesterday (they can't go to Houston) and my brother called this morning. Where does this pessimistic thinking come from? I honestly believe I will be fine...but boy, those good byes are hard!
Well, I have a ton to do to get everything packed. We are headed to Houston by 3 this afternoon, so I will fill my day with getting things ready. Then it is off to Houston. I will post again after my weeklong stay in Houston and let you know how all of this goes.
HERE I COME TO THE LOSING SIDE...
July 31
HERE I AM ON THE LOSING SIDE!!!!
Woohoo! I am a loser!!! Never knew it could feel soooooo good!
Let me back up and record what has happened.
On July 23, I was amazed that I had slept well the night before surgery. I guess after all the worry and all the thoughts that plagued me, my mind had simply run out of things to think about and I slept instead. I was relieved. The morning found me apprehensive, but not too bad considering... My hubby and I spent the night at LaQuinta Inn near the hospital, so while he went for the continental breakfast, I took some solitary time to pray. I asked God to give me some kind of reassurance. I did a random opening of the Bible and it fell to Samuel 1, Chapter 20, verse 2 and my eyes fell on "And he said unto him, God forbid; thou shalt not die..." That is as far as I read. I left for the hospital feeling like I was in God's hands and at peace. FINALLY!!
I waited in a general waiting room when arriving at the hospital. At about 9:30, I was called back to the holding area. One family member is allowed, so Steve went with me. I changed into the lovely hospital gown and removed my jewelry. Dr. Naaman came in and lightened the mood with a good-hearted joke as he laid his hand on my tummy, "Well, it is almost time. You ready to push??" I told him I didn't think pushing would cure this problem; I was counting on HIM to do that! Then Dr. Weavind (my wonderful anesthesiologist) arrived and gave me the "woozy" shot. Next thing I knew, my bed was moving, I kissed my hubby, and he said "see you on the other side!" It made me laugh and we parted with me smiling!
I entered operating room 3 (my lucky number, by the way!) and Dr. Weavind was there saying she was going to give me something and to just "sit back and enjoy the ride". That is the last I remember! Next thing I knew, I heard my name called several times. They called me "Patricia" (a pet peeve as I was only called that when in trouble as a child!) and I so wanted to tell them not to call me that. Couldn't make my tongue work! By the time I could, they had moved on to other patients. At 12:20, they took me from recovery to my room. Steve joined us on the way.
In the room, the transfer to the regular bed was made using a Hoover mat. It was so cool! They blew up the mat that was under me...felt like an air mattress waterbed! Then they simply slid me into the bed across that wonderful invention. I felt like a lightweight! (First time in 30 years for that feeling!)
I had abdominal pain that I rated 7 (on a 1-10 scale) when first asked after arrival to my bed. I drifted in and out of sleep, but generally remember that I wanted to get up and walk and wanted the booties ON MY FEET. At 3 I went for my first walk to the restroom. The incision in my bellybutton leaked blood and needed some attention. At 5, I was up again and walked to the end of the hallway on my wing. At 6, they gave me 2 units of insulin, liquid vioxx, and regulan (to stimulate bowels). At 7, I was up and walked the opposite wing, which was longer. At 9, I was up and walked both wings. I slept as well as can be expected in a hospital (blood draw, sugar tested, new nurse on duty woke me to introduce herself :-(.... well, you know the hospital nighttime tortures!) The hospital staff was generically adequate. I did have two nurses that knew how to smile and make conversation. Suzie and Carl get stars for pleasantness.
The next morning, they came to get me at 7:30 for the leak test. Let me tell you folks, I would go through the surgery again before I would do that #$#$@%$# leak test again! At this point, I had not yet laid flat in a bed (the gas pain in my abdomen made laying flat very painful.) When I arrived at Xray, I had to lay flat on that hard table. Tears came due to the pain...only tears I shed through the entire surgery process! She assured me the pain would subside as I laid there, and she was right. They took one X-ray of my tummy, then turned me slightly to my side with a wedge under my right shoulder...more pain), and brought the X-ray machine up to my neck. I was given a foul tasting liquid to drink through a straw and told that although I would think I couldn't drink that much, I could...it would go straight through. There was about as much as a can of soda. The radiologist told me to take one sip first (which allowed me to TASTE how bad that stuff was) and then to drink in a steady slow pace the remainder of the bottle. I complied (I was so thirsty my mouth was all stuck together, so the liquid was at least LIQUID). He took moving X-rays of my digestive tract as I consumed my "gag-a-maggot" drink. When it was gone, they put me on my back again for another shot that direction. Then they all disappeared, leaving me on that %$#%$^# hard cold table with a foul aftertaste in my mouth. Although it was probably only 5-10 minutes, I swear it felt like half a day before they finally came back...only to repeat the last picture again...and desert me AGAIN!!! Finally, my guards returned and freed me from my torture chamber. They wanted me to sit up and get down, but the thought of sitting up with the abdominal pain was not pleasant in my mind. I requested that they stand the table up (I knew it would do that from something she said earlier) and they did. That was MUCH easier than rising to a sitting a position from flat would have been. When I got back to my room, the nurse asked me if I wanted to shower so I did. I was really tired by the time that was done!
The rest of the second day was simply spent sipping liquids (broth, Gatorade, water, juice) and walking every two hours. I also did the breathing exercises every hour. I couldn't get that little marker up very high due to the pain in my diaphragm area, but I kept trying. All day we anxiously awaited Dr. Naaman's arrival to find out the test results and to see if I would be released. He finally arrived about 6 PM. To quote him, he said, "You no poop...you no go home!" I had had nothing from that part of my body since surgery. I asked him about the leak test and he said, "If it had been negative, I would have been here much earlier!" Anyway, he order suppositories and went on his way.
The suppositories did their evil (oh, boy, did they! From midnight until morning, I visited the porcelain god TEN times) but I must admit, after all that gas (my goodness, there sure was a lot of that!!!!) the abdominal pain had disappeared. When Naaman stopped by in the morning, he grabbed my toes and said, "You pooped??" I replied "TEN times!" He laughed and said, "I told you it was serious! Now you go home! Remember three things: fluids, vitamins, exercise"
I was feeling so much better...could get in and out of bed unassisted with virtually no pain or effort. After a shower, I packed up my meager belongings and was given my discharge education (taking care of the drain) by the nurse. Then my hubby came and boy, was he surprised by my improved mobility!! We called for directives about leaving and the Director of Nursing came and walked us out! I was able to get into the car and buckle the seat belt with NO problems...and the ride to the hotel was just fine.
Steve and I became hotel lizards...lying around watching movies between walks which we took every two hours. Over the next few days, we checked out restaurants in the area and I found that EVERY place I went, they were more than accommodating about straining soup broth for me. (I brought a little tea strainer that I had bought at Wal-Mart). Denny's was especially helpful and even gave me two bowls of broth for 99 cents! (My husband has decided I am now a cheap date.)
We were at the hotel from Friday until Tuesday. By Sunday, I was up to going shopping and we spent 3 to 3 and a half hours walking around stores/malls the last three days. I felt energized, alive, optimistic, hopeful, and happy as a clam!
Finally, Wednesday arrived, and my appointment with Naaman’s office to remove the drain. Julius weighed me in and I was faced with my first disappointment in this whole process. I had lost only one and a half pounds!!!!!!!!! I had walked and only eaten clear liquids...I can't deny I was crushed. (In retrospect, I have realized I had not taken my fluid pills since the day before surgery and I am retaining a lot, I am sure.) Anyway, Julius removed the drain. It wasn't terribly painful...a cramping sensation across the upper abdomen that subsided quickly once he finished pulling the darn thing out. I didn't realize how long it was! Got my new diet (I am now an official member of the "Creamed Club".... creamed soups, cream of wheat, etc. for six weeks!) and my "Don'ts". Don't swim until the drain hole is completed scabbed over, don't ride in a car for more than 45 minutes without walking for 10...that's about it. I saw Amanda on the way out, got lab orders for a month from now and made a return appointment for Sept. 3.
We drove home, stopping to walk as instructed. I didn't have any pain riding at all, and slept most of the way home. My first night home, I went to Chili's with my daughters and ordered their to-die-for cheese broccoli soup. YUM...that tasted like heaven after a week of broth! I only ate 1/3 of the cup. But I was so nervous about whether it would sit well (being in a public place) that I ended up wanting to leave. As soon as we left, I was fine and had no problems with my pouch.
That brings me up to date. See you when there is more to report...like some weight lost!!!
August 6
Two weeks post op. Went to my primary care physician today and I have lost 11 pounds since last week! WOOHOO! She was sure shocked. She initially opposed me having this surgery, but now is being very supportive. Have a little infection at the drain site, so she put me on liquid antibiotic. I am still feeling GREAT and count my blessings every single day.
August 13
Three weeks post op. Went to my PC to have some "ears" from the stitches in two of my incisions removed. I told her I had to stop the antibiotic after five days as it made me ache all over like I had the flu. I couldn't even sleep. I am feeling back to my great self since stopping it, and the incision looks wonderful. My sugars are up, though...I think it is from the antibiotic. She increased my oral diabetes meds :-( Oh well. It will get better again. Meanwhile, I am down to 277! Woo hoo!
August 22
Well, just about a month ago, this adventure began, and now I am down 35 pounds and after taking measurements last night, I have lost a total of 21 3/4 inches! (neck, chest, waist, hips, right thigh, calf, ankle, wrist and arm). Most notable: 6 inches in my waist and 5 3/4 in my right thigh!! Woo Hoo! I have now changed my exercise a bit. I walk for 30 minutes in the morning, come home and get in the pool. There, I do water aerobics (using the book the Wet Set to guide me) for 30 minutes followed by 30 minutes of what I call free movement time. I swim, walk, or dance (yes, dance!) in the pool until the 30-minute timer goes off. Food wise, I am beginning to expand just a little beyond the creamed foods. I have added baked potato (tiny one) with creamed soup as a topping, cottage cheese, soft veggies like peas and green beans, and have eaten a few crackers. I have had two experiences with nausea...from eating wrong (one piece of chicken fajita meat with a cup of shredded cheese; the other four sips of milkshake and two fries followed by getting very overheated at an outdoor Texas flea market...YUK). Other than those, no nausea or other yucky stuff. I still am baffled by my sugars. Ever since taking the antibiotic, the sugars refuse to respond to exercise or increased medication. Morning fasting is around 160-170 :-( which I am very unhappy about. I get blood work next week; we will see what the verdict is from that.
August 27
Five weeks ago today I started this journey. I am now down 40 pounds...and still feeling like I am on top of the world! I can sit behind the steering wheel of the car now without wedging my stomach into place...I can ride in my hubby's hot rod AND I HAVE TO TIGHTEN THE SEATBELT SIX INCHES!! I am eating finely ground salads...egg, tuna, potato (chewing well). I try not to eat unless I am hungry. I continue with 90 minutes of exercise in the mornings. My sugars are STILL high (my one sad point in this saga) but the doctor yesterday gave me a new med (Amaryl) which makes the pancreas produce insulin and is crushable. This morning, my fasting sugar was down 100 points from yesterday (220 - 120!) So I am encouraged that it responded. I still pray that someday, I will not need medication. (I guess I just want it all!!)
September 3
Today, I had my follow-up visit with Dr. Naaman's office. I weighed in at 265.2. I am cleared to start soft foods (I confess, I already have experimented with a few, but not too much). All is fine except my bowels...not going often enough and I need to start taking Citrucel everyday.
September 4
All hell broke lose at 4 AM this morning. I awoke with STABBING pain in the upper left abdomen. I immediately thought it was an obstructed bowel (considering what was said yesterday) and spent 2 and a half hours trying to accomplish something on the toilet. To no avail...and the pain was so excruciating, I knew something serious was wrong. We called Naaman at 6:30 AM and they wanted me to come to Houston (187 miles!) My husband told them I could not endure such a long trip due to the pain. At first we decided to go to a local hospital, but on the way, Naaman's office called on the cell phone and again stated they wanted me to come to Houston as the local hospitals would not be as informed about what to do. They called in prescriptions of hydrocodone and zophram which, when combined, dulled the pain enough to allow me to make the trip. My husband drove me to Houston where we arrived at 11:45 AM.
Once in the emergency room, a CAT scan was done. It revealed that I had a leak....the dye I drank was EVERYWHERE. Emergency surgery was started at 3 PM. Dr. Naaman discovered that an ulcer had grown in my pouch and perforated it, allowing all the gastric juices to dump into the peritoneum. I had peritonitis. He repaired the 3 mm hole in the pouch, and cleaned every organ in my abdomen...all laproscopically, using the same incisions as my original surgery. I spent the next 24 hours in ICU, and then was moved to a room.
Saturday, Sept. 6
Started walking today, but the pain is intense in my right side. I can't straighten up. Respiratory came tonight; my O2 levels were 83. Put on oxygen and given an incentive spigometer.
Monday, Sept. 8 and Tuesday, Sept. 9
The pain has intensified. Naaman was concerned and ordered another CAT scan. I am running fevers of 101ish and having spasm pain in my left side. The CAT scan revealed NO MORE HOLES or abscesses, but there is a new mystery. Somehow, the dye I drank is in my OLD stomach. Naaman doesn't know how, and an endoscopy has been ordered. The CAT scan also revealed I have a partially collapsed left lung, due to not being able to breath properly (as a result of the pain in the abdomen restricting the diaphragm). Had chest X-rays...so painful due to my abdominal pain.
Wednesday, Sept. 10
I had a normal temp today (yeah!!) Started breathing treatments that force air into my lung. I had the endoscopy. A VILE substance was sprayed into my throat that paralyzed the muscles...I felt like I was being strangled and couldn't swallow (but Dr. Jayanty assured me I could swallow...I just couldn't feel it!!) A mouth piece (jaw holder) was inserted into my mouth and the camera went down. Not too bad. I had been given drugs that left me "consciously sedated". Dr. Jayanty told me this ulcer is the result of Vioxx (given for my arthritis). Dr. Naaman explained that the HUGE donut shaped ulcer surrounds the stoma (opening to the intestine) and had not only eaten a hole through the outside of the pouch (the one he repaired in the emergency surgery) but had also eaten another hole on the opposite side of the pouch. Beside the pouch on this side was my OLD stomach. When the ulcer ate through the pouch, it just kept on going and ate into the old stomach...creating a fistula...the mystery of how the dye got into the old stomach was solved. Dr. Naaman says this ulcer is so large it will take between 4 and 6 months to heal it. He feels that I will no longer lose weight as the hole into my old stomach undermines the original surgery (food can enter the hole, and that makes my original stomach available for digestion....) I asked if there was a possiblity that the hole would heal closed as the ulcer heals, and Naaman said 15% chance. Jayanty said NO...and I told him he doesn't know the power of prayer!
Thursday, 9/11
Dr. Naaman came and expained my options. I can have surgery now to repair the hole into the old stomach, but he advises waiting while the ulcer heals and looking at the ulcer again in a few months. I agree. I am weak and don't feel I can endure another surgery. I asked him if I was "out of the woods and on the way to Grandma's" at this point. He told me I am. He OKed full liquids (I was originally on IV only, and then clear liquids) but I must go very, very slowly. A nutritionist came to talk with me as my protein is very low (2) and she gave me some suggestions. One was drinking "Mighty Shakes"...protein supplemented shakes and another was making double milk. (Enhance fat free milk by adding powdered milk to it. Use to make pudding, etc.)
Friday, 9/12
Another chest X-ray today. Dr. N came and said Sunday was a reasonable "go home" goal day. I am have pain spasms and cold chills, and don't feel very well as the day goes on. Dr. Price (infectious disease doc) came in and was quite upset when he heard that Dr. N said Sunday was a possible go home day. He mentioned that if I went home now, I would need to be on IV antibiotics for "weeks" at home. He left in a hurry, concerned that he needed to set up home healthcare for me. I felt pretty confused...why do I need this???
Saturday, 9/13
Today, I questioned Julius (Dr. N's nurse) as to why I would need to be on IV antibiotics for weeks (as Dr. Price said) if I went home now. Julius assured me it was simply preventative. When Dr. Price came in, I asked him the same question. He said, "You have peritonitis and a bacteria we can't identify. I don't think you should be going home!" He went on to explain that the blood cultures taken when the emergency surgery were done USUALLY would tell what bacterias were present; however, since I was ON an antibiotic prior to coming in to the hospital, the cultures were non-conclusive. Therefore, they were treating me with antibiotics in a "hit and miss" type approach...trying to clear up all the infections. These two responses were so different, it upset me. I felt like the doctors weren't communicating...either with each other, or with me!!! This was the FIRST time anyone told me I had peritonitis! When Dr. Naaman came in, he found me very upset and I tried to explain to him my distress. He said that I don't HAVE peritonitis... but I HAD it a week ago. He assured me he does talk to Dr. Price and that they both decided it was too soon for me to go home due to the reoccurring fevers. They were unsure if that was caused by perhaps another leak (maybe between pouch and stomach) or by a bacteria they had not be able to eradicate with the antibiotics I had been on. Going home was postponed. Morphine was discontinued, and Durasegic patches were started. Since I had not had a bowel movement since Sunday, Milk of Magnesia was given.
Monday, Sept. 15
Working on my mental attitude today. The weekend was not good; had been depressed and didn't feel well. Sleepy and not motivated. Decided to increase my walking. Feeling a bit better, I think. Dr. Price came by and said the fevers were decreasing in intensity and duration (they were about 99.5 and lasted 10-12 hours each day) and he feels more confident that it is not a leak. He wants to stop the IV antibiotics and prepare me to go home on oral...YEAH. Julius came by and talked to me about drinking more; I thought since I was on IV fluids, I didn't need to drink. WRONG. More water really helped me feel better.
Tuesday, Sept. 16
Dr. Jayanty came by. He feels the overdose of Vioxx is the definite cause of this ulcer. He also said the sharp, spasmodic pains I have are NOT the ulcer (it would be deep throbbing pain). He says it is my colon not working properly. He ordered Citrucel and said to use it daily no matter what. I am walking better and faster; peeing more. Lung is better, but still not fully expanding.
Wednesday, Sept. 17
Dr. Naaman came by and cleared me to go home tomorrow. WOOHOO!!I started packing my stuff. I am so excited! I miss my family and am SO TIRED of the hospital.
Thursday, Sept. 18
DISCHARGED TODAY. I was ready by 10, my hubby was there at 12, but didn't get the fourth doctor's discharge signature until 2. GRRRRRRRR....... I weighed in at Dr. Naaman's office before leaving Houston...255! Happy that I am still losing weight. Slept most of the way home, but sure was good to get here. Went to fill the three prescriptions; 2 out of 3 were written wrong which caused some frustration and pain on my part. Finally cleared up the problems and got my meds on Friday. Took measurements...I have lost 37 inches off my body!!!
Thursday, October 2
Revisited Naaman's office today. Still have abdominal tenderness on my left upper side (hurts to sneeze, hiccup, yawn, take a deep breath). He doesn't seem concerned; says damage was done by the gastric juices and it will take time to repair that internally. Pleased that my weight is now down to 246...I have lost 59 since my first consultation. He thinks my recovery is ahead of schedule, even though my continued pain discourages me. My hip/back hurt a LOT since I can't take anything anymore, and he thinks I need to have it re-evaluated. Overall, doing well. He is pleased that I am walking 30 minutes daily, although I have to do it in 15-minute segments. (My hip hurts too much for more. Am using a cane.) Guess I just have to be patient and let this old body heal!!!
October 10
Well, I have an appointment with a rheumatologist. My back and hip continue to be a problem. I went about a week without pain meds, but it became unbearable and yesterday I put a 25 mg Duragesic patch on. I also used a moist heating pad last night. I have not been able to sleep at night due to hip/back pain waking me repeatedly during the night. I slept better last night than I have in several prior to this.
I think the pain from my surgery is history...and am eating soft foods of all kinds now. I didn't lose any weight this past week, and am aware I am eating too much "stuff" (sort of like the kid in the candy shop when I found out I could eat things!) Am making a conscious effort to stop that behavior and to increase my water intake. I am not drinking nearly enough. I am exercising about 15-30 minutes a day...but the walking is slow and I have to use a cane to make it all the way around the neighborhood. Sure hope this evaluation of my hip and back yields some answers and something can be done. I want to be able to move!!!
October 25
Yesterday, I went to the rheumatologist, Dr. Parker. He said this pain is primarily from hip bursitis, and secondarily from arthritis in his opinion. He gave me three Kenolog (SP??) shots...one in the hip bursa, one in the shoulder, and one in the back of my hip in a very tender spot where there is no bursa, but have a very tender spot. The shots were very painful, and sent shooting pains down my legs and across my hips. But the instant I stood up from that table, at least 85% of my pain was gone! HOW WONDERFUL! He also sent me down for six X-rays...to check on the status of the arthritis in my hip and back. This morning, I got out of bed with no pain or stiffness in my back, hip, or leg. That has not happened in a couple of months! I am supposed to stay off my leg for 3 days, and then restrict movement for three more weeks. It is so hard, because I am feeling so good! I want to WALK!!!
October 26
Have been retaining fluid, so started back on my diuretic. This morning, the scales suddenly read 237! So that was about 5 pounds of fluid I had hanging around. My hip/back continues to be wonderfully pain free. I am so optimistic!
October 27
Wow! This morning, two more pounds were gone.... so I am at 70 pounds lost according to my scales. Official weigh in at the doctor will be in two more days. Got some bad news from Aetna this morning: Even though the second surgery was the result of a complication from the first surgery (according to my gastroenterologist who said the staple line plus the vioxx in combination were the probable cause of the ulcer), we still have to meet the yearly out of pocket deductible (totals $5240) again since the second surgery happened FOUR days after the new benefit year started.
WELL...REGARDLESS, I HAVE NO REGRETS. Money is not as important as health....
October 29
Official weigh in today was 233 pounds.... I have lost 72 since I started this. Since I had my emergency surgery for the ulcer, I have lost 32 more pounds. I guess that means Dr. Naaman's fear that my weight loss would stop due to the hole the ulcer made into the old stomach is unfounded. I thank God for that!
Still not able to exercise. After getting the shot for the hip bursitis, I took a bad fall in my kitchen (my hubby mopped and I forgot it was wet and turned the floor into a "slip and slide"...fell with my right leg under me, hurting big toe, ankle, knee, and hip. So...I LIMP AGAIN. GRRRR.) I am hoping it will eventually get well like it was after the shot. It has been four days, and it is better, but I can't walk for any length of time.
Nov. 5
My hip is doing much better. I am pretty much pain free unless I am on it for extended amounts of time. Weighed in this morning and I am 227 (total loss of 78 pounds)....which makes me NO LONGER MORBIDLY OBESE!!! I am only very obese now! LOL. My lab work came in today and looks good. My HA1C (diabetes) is still too high (7.1) but continues to come down (7.8 in March, 7.5 in June). Protein, calcium, and B12 are normal. B6 results didn't come in yet. The only thing low is my potassium...which I suspected as I am having leg cramps lately. I only take two chewable Flintstone vitamins a day...Dr. Naaman doesn't push protein supplements or anything other than eating a balanced diet. If a deficiency occurs, then we will deal with it. So, I just eat balanced meals (tiny ones, but I try for balance!) For example, lunch today was one Orange Roughy fillet, one SMALL (1 inch in diameter) baked potato and 6 green beans.
November 12, 2003
Yesterday, I returned to Houston for an endoscopy with my gastroenterologist (Jayanty) and afterwards, an appointment with Dr. Naaman. The news is WONDERFUL. After only two months, the ulcer (that the doctor said would take 4-6 months to heal) is 100% healed! Not only that good news, but the fistula into my old stomach is so much smaller, Naaman couldn't see it in the photos that were taken. He had to call Jayanty to ask about its status, and he said it was much smaller than before! Go, God, Go! The healing power of prayer is awesome and I feel so blessed!
My weight pleased Naaman (226.6) and my bloodwork was great except low potassium. (That has been causing crampings in muscles from my knees down.) I am starting back on my quinine (which I took prior to surgery) because Naaman prefers that to potassium suppliments. I am not doing protein shakes on a regular basis (just once in a while for a snack) but all looked just great. Calcium was still great, too...so he said I do not need to come back for THREE MONTHS! I feel free!!!!!!!! And so happy!!!!
Today it has been 16 weeks, and according to my scales this morning I have lost 80 pounds ( I weighed 224 on my scales this morning.) Not too bad!!!!!!
November 19:
Down another 3 pounds this week. Things are going quite well. I am exercising at the gym at least three days a week. I do 20 minutes on the treadmill (I do a little over a mile), 15 minutes on the bicycle (about 6 miles), 7 minutes on the elliptical machine, and then about 10 minutes lifting weights to work on my arms some.
I have developed a bladder infection, so have some antibiotics (Cipro suspension) for that. Also, constipation continues to be a problem despite Metamusel, Citrucel, and prunes!! Dr. Burnell told me to take one tablespoon of Milk of Magnesia every other night and continue with the fiber supplements morning and night as I have been doing. These problems are minor in comparison to how wonderful I feel being 82 pounds lighter! Oh, what a miracle this surgery is! I do have to learn to curtail how much I talk about it; a friend has let me know that ears can wear out! It is just so hard not to, though...it colors my life right now. I guess I need to refocus.
I have a new grandson born Nov. 18. This is number 5! His name is Connor Paul. I can't wait to see him; he lives several hours away, so it will be three weeks before my husband and I can get up there.
Beginning to think more about the cruise I am going on in January with my brother, his fiancée, and two other friends coming here to Texas from Vermont. It is to celebrate my 100-pound weight loss...so I have to lose about 18 more by then. Two months... I can do it! A year ago when we did this cruise, I wanted to swim with the dolphins but worried about my size in a public place in a swimsuit. This year, I will still be big, but I feel so much slimmer, I think it will be fine. My sweet brother is paying for this for my birthday...he is such a great brother and has been an undying source of support for me through this process. He never tires of hearing about it and is always there to cheer me on. He has lost 100 pounds on his own, so he knows the weight loss struggle up front and personally.
November 28
Well, Thanksgiving is behind me. I had some trouble yesterday, but NOT for the reason you would think (overeating or eating high sugar/fat)! Before lunch, during the prep time, I ate a piece of turkey. I think that did not go well (I usually eat something moist such as turkey or fruit slices) when I eat meat to help it have moisture when I am chewing it. I didn't with the turkey. I didn't know I was having trouble until I sat down with my plate and tried to eat dinner. I only took a few little bites when I knew something wasn't right...felt like I needed to burp but couldn't. I stopped eating. It took me a couple hours to rectify the feeling...and I ended up throwing up four times before it went away. But then I was instantly well and HUNGRY. Go figure. So I waited a while but then I ate and this time had NO trouble at all. If I could just remember that meat must be chewed and works best with moisture!!! Oh well, it kept me from overeating!
I weighed in this week and gained a pound. I am bummed about it and trying to figure out why. It could be that I am on an antibiotic (bladder infection) and it has joint pain and tendon inflammation as side effects. My hip has been so bad this week that I cannot exercise. So that could be a factor. Also, I am VERY constipated. I have done the Metamucil, Citrucel, and Milk of Magnesia routine...to very little avail. I bought bran muffins (the tiny ones) and eat those and prunes for breakfast. I have tried to increase water intake, but it is hard. I am either in the time before or after a meal when I should not drink or I am busy and don't remember. Anyway, I think that may contribute to gained weight.
Will just keep plugging along and doing as well as I can!
December 17
Well, finally the scales moved. Have to admit, I have been a bit worried lately, as the weight loss has really slowed down. But I am pretty sure I am losing inches during this time. I lost 2.5 pounds this week, so that is better! Next week, I take measurements again. I was doing that every four weeks (thinking it was monthly) but have decided to do it on the 23rd of each month instead of every four weeks.
I really have been struggling as now I can eat about anything I want (I do have some problems...seems to be when I eat in a more formal setting...not sure if it because I am not relaxed or what.) Anyway, I think I have been eating too much, especially carbs. I am trying to cut them back a lot, but have to eat some, as I am diabetic. So I need a happy compromise. Also, I am not drinking enough, so I am trying to improve on that. About the constipation, I finally simply stopped taking anything for it and let nature take its course, concentrating on fiber in my diet when I can. I think I am doing fine now.
The holiday seasons don't seem as threatening as they did in the past food wise. I have learned that overeating is NOT a good thing to do with the pouch, so I am being much more careful. A lot of things that appealed to me before no longer have such a tendency to call my name when I walk by! I pray that this continues as the holidays arrive!
I have to loose about 15 more pounds in the next month. Going on a cruise to celebrate my 100-pound weight loss! Now I gotta make that big century mark! Protein, fewer carbs, more water...that is my plan!
Dec. 20
I hit 90 pounds gone this morning! Woo Hoo! 10 more by Jan. 17 when I go on the cruise.....
Went to the rheumatologist this week thinking I would just need a shot in my painful buttock/hip area (having a LOT of trouble standing or walking more than 5 minutes)...but since I cannot lift my leg properly (laying on my back, I can lift it about 3 inches off the floor and that is all) I have to see a neurologist Dec. 30 for assessment. He thinks it may be a disc problem in my back. Hopefully, it will be resolved so I can exercise again. I really cannot at this point due to pain. He also increased my pain meds and suggested I use the Dursegic patches again. I am trying to manage the pain without the patches. Hate the narcotics....
Jan. 16
Wohoo! Doing the happy dance! I hit the -100 mark today, just in time for our cruise! I am down 100.5 according to my PC's scales. It feels WONDERFUL!!!
I have had an MRI and EMG in an attempt to determine the source of my leg pain. It hurts in the center of my right buttock and radiates to the calf of that leg about 15 minutes after standing or walking. Also, I cannot lift my leg when lying on my back more than a few inches off the ground. They cannot find a problem...the MRI showed mild degenerative disc disease but Dr. Redding didn't think it was enough to explain my problems. She diagnosed pyriformis syndrome (sp)...and said the sciatic nerve is caught in the pyriformis muscle creating a "carpal tunnel of the butt". I have started physical therapy and it is helping. I also went back to her partner, Dr. Volpe, who gave me a shot of cortisone to help with the situation. He expressed to me that he is not so sure this is not a back problem. We will see if this shot and the PT helps or not. If not, he says he will do a nerve block.
Jan. 22
Back from the cruise. What a wonderful time we had! I wore a size 14 evening gown and had pictures taken for my ObesityHelp "I have lost 100 pounds" picture. I am being trained to help post pictures, and will soon be able to post my own before and after picture. That's exciting!
Neat things happened on the cruise because of my weight loss. One of the most fun was when I was going to swim with the dolphins I handed the guy an XL life preserver to put on me and he said "Oh, no, M'amm. That is way too large for you!!" He made my day...no, he made my year!!! On the way back from the cruise, we stopped in Houston so I could weigh "officially" on Dr. Naaman's scales. I had lost weight on the cruise!
I took my measurements. At six months I have lost the following:
Neck - 2.5 inches
chest -10.4 inches
waist -12.5 inches
hips -14.75 inches
right thigh -3.5 inches
right calf - 3.5 inches
right arm -3 inches
wrist -1 inch
belly button to spine - 10.5 inches
TOTAL INCHES LOST: 66 3/4
That is more inches than my height! I thank God each and every day for this surgery. What a miracle!
February 5, 2004
I lost 1.5 pounds this past week, but I don't really know how. I have had out of state company for the past month, and this past week have made some bad food choices (Girl Scout cookies should be banned from EARTH!!!!) But God is good and I lost anyway....and it is back to making the right food choices for me this week. I see Dr. Naaman in two more weeks and would like to see at least 5 more pounds off by then. I have lost 106.5 as of today...about 6 and half months after surgery.
In the past 24 hours, I have had three people either see me or read this profile and tell me that I have inspired them to consider having this surgery. What a wonderful inspiration to me to continue to push to lose this weight! I find such personal joy in being able to point the way to HOPE for those who suffer from obesity. If you are reading this and want to talk, please, please email me and I will do all that I can to help you with getting the information about the surgery so you can decide if it is for you. I would consider it a privilege, so don't hesitate to contact me. Just click on the link at the top of the page that says, "Email me".
Wish my pictures were up to date on this page; I submitted new ones a month ago but they are terribly behind as volunteers give all they can, but I am told the backlog is 600 photos! So...I have signed up to be a photo volunteer for this website and am now being trained. Then I can help not only my page to stay up to date, but others as well. Anyway, if you want to see more recent photos, email me and I will only be too happy to send one! LOL
February 26, 2004
Well, I went to see Dr. Naaman last week. I weighed in at 199.2 on his scales. He was delighted and told me he was very proud of my progress. He feels the hole into my old stomach from the ulcer is most likely completely healed and since I am doing very well with continued weight loss.
I have been on a bit of a plateau...actually had a gain! I have done a three day mostly liquids to shrink my pouch and am trying to increase the exercise.
I had an epidural injection into the L5 nerve root in hopes of helping this leg situation. For the first week, it seemed to be better, but a week into it, it suddenly became very touchy again. I notice when I walk a half-mile, the last portion of it, my leg feels like it will collapse about every 10 steps or so. Have had to start taking pain pills again, and my low back is aching worse. I see the neurologist next week...again. Also made an appointment with a foot specialist as the neuroma in my left foot (X-rayed before this surgery) is raising its ugly head. I wonder if favoring it is throwing the back out and affecting the other leg. This part is discouraging, but the scales are so encouraging and the comments I get ALL THE TIME from folks now are so worth it. Most common remark: You have lost 20 years!
March 4
Busy week with doctors. I went to a new podiatrist...he does NOT agree with the neuroma diagnosis made a year ago. He says my toe is dislocated (causing a hammer toe) and I have tendonitis and capsulitis. Aetna covers the orthotic inserts I need so I will be having that done. I remember stubbing my toe REALLY badly a LONG time ago... I guess that is when this happened. I have learned to walk without bending that area of my foot...which may have led to the problems on the right side of my body. I also saw the neurologist again...he thinks the block helped some but that I have "other issues" going on. I am having another MRI (of the lower leg and the hip) tomorrow to look at possible stress fracture of the tibia, bone growth(s), and pelvic joint problems. Sure hope someone figures something out soon. I really want to be able to walk.
This past week, I had some sort of stomach virus, I think. I was nauseated and was vomiting. Of course, I blamed my surgery at first, and even called my surgeon's office as I thought I was constipated. He told me to take 4 Tablespoons of Milk of Magnesia with 8 oz. of water. During the next few hours, I was to consume as close to 70 oz. of water as I could. I did that, and it was effective...but did not stop the stomach problems. I have since concluded that I probably had a virus that lasted about 5 days. Am feeling much better now.
I was on retreat with the women from my church this past weekend and an issue came up that I brought up again at my support group meeting this week. Part of the reason I had a weight problem was due to being sexually molested as a child and attacked twice as a young (thin, attractive) adult. Fat became protection. As this weight is coming off, I find my mind playing to old games on me....this is something I am going to have to battle. I don't want to sabotage my self yet again. I am so torn...I look in the mirror and am so pleased with the improvement in my appearance. And it is that very thing that scares the "you know what" out of me. How do I come to terms with this? I will pray about this; God is my Strength.
March 13
Well, I had the MRI done of the lower right leg and my right hip. The neurologist called and said that due to the results, they wanted me in for pelvic X-rays for a "possible pelvic fracture." Gosh, what next???? I have had the X-rays but heard nothing. My appointment with him is next week.
Had another bout of not feeling well. Again, I was constipated, took the 4 T of Milk of Magnesia and spent the next 3-4 days nauseated and blah. Dr. Burnell suggests that I take 2 T of M of M on Mondays and Fridays instead of waiting for the constipation and then trying to take 4 T and causing my system to retaliate. Think that makes sense.
Good news...I think! I found out that Aetna would cover a tummy tuck if it is medically necessary (hangs below pubis and causes rashes). I had a well-woman exam today, and mentioned this to my doctor...she noted that since I already had a history of rashes, this won't be a problem. Now I really want to get this weight off by July so I can do the surgery in August (new benefit year starts Sept. 1). I wonder if I can make this goal? I weighed 190 today at the doctor: I need 40 more off in four months.
Meanwhile, I am catching up with the medical "right things" to do. I had my well woman exam today (UGH)...doc gave me the mammo, bone density, and colon referrals. Next week I see the eye doctor...and go back to the podiatrist. Sure am tired of the doctor offices... But when all of this is over, I am going to be healthy and HAPPY IT IS OVER!
April 1
I am a little frustrated with this plateau. I am just bouncing around the 190 area. Gain one, lose one, gain one, lose one. I have started walking more, trying to drink (but not good at that) water more, and watching the snacks. I was eating too much in that area. Got rid of the two pounds I gained in a couple days of effort. Have started water aerobics (three sessions with a therapist) to get a home arthritis program going. My pool is clean...water is a cool 73, but I can get in. So.... exercise it is!
April 2
I did yard work today...and mowed with an electric push mower! Do you have any idea how long it has been since I have had the energy to do that???? Wow!!! Walked a mile, shopped, and two hours in the yard. Quite the day!
April 7
Well, I have been pretty worried the past couple of weeks. The well woman exam produced an abnormal pap (Atypical glandular cells) and a pelvic x-ray showed a "questionable lesion" in the iliac crest of my pelvis prompting my neurologist to order a bone scan to rule out a tumor. Since I had been two and a half years with no pap, my imagination ran wild. I called my nurse cousin (sorta like on Millionaire when you use a lifeline!) and she was wonderful in calming me down. (Thanks, Deb!!) Anyway, the biopsies and scans are done, and I DON'T HAVE CANCER! Praise God!
I have NOT been losing. I am taking a hard look at myself and as of today I have started a three-way plan of action: 1. Walk at least 1 mile daily 2. Drink (using my Memorial Hospital Jug...it is HUGE) at least three jugs of water with lemon a day and 3. Keep track of my food and limit to 1000 calories a day. I have a program called "Balance Log" (purchased in one of my past attempts to lose this weight!), so I will use it. I am going to really watch the snacking; crackers and chips were creeping back into my life. So.... please pray for me!
Hair loss has become a major concern. I feel like I have lost 50% of my hair, but my hairdresser says I haven't. I purchased the Hair, Skin and Nails vitamins at GMC and have noticed it is slowing down. Yesterday, I bought the EXPENSIVE Nioxin hair treatment starter kit. I have to say it was a tingling experience like no other when I put the treatment on!!! And my hair looks fuller and feels nicer. It will be worth the 30 bucks it cost if it works! Will let you know.
I am having my profile spruced up! I am so excited. Soon, this will have a new look. Check back to see!
April 15
Well, after being discouraged about an apparent plateau for several weeks, I am finally making progress again. I dropped 3.5 pounds this week. I have made a few changes in my habits. To be honest, I had found myself not drinking and making some bad snacking choices. So I got out my hospital drinking mug (to remind me of why I did this!!) and am putting water in it. I fill it at least twice a day, and drink low sugar drinks (by Ocean Spray) two or three a day. Also, my snacks are now either single serve popcorn or 2 oz. of peanuts (both of these help with my constipation problem :-) ) Also, I have made a resolve to decrease my time in front of the computer and get more active with doing things around the house. I bought the Dr. Phil 7 Keys book, also. Although he upset me when I was in the hospital with a derogatory comment that he made about this surgery, I decided for the most part he has some solid advice. So.... anyway, the chapter I am on is about setting realistic, attainable goals, and leaves a place to actually record them. So that has helped. I also have selected my friend, Lynne, who has been so helpful to me through this whole thing, to be my "check up coach". Once a week, she and I will check on each other's progress toward the goals we set. I have four goals:
1. 72+ oz water daily
2. Exercise one hour 4+ days a week (walk, gym, water aerobics or strenuous home chores such as mowing)
3. Make better snack choices; increase protein, decrease carbs
4. Decrease sedentary computer time; increase activity
My goal is to use these methods to reach my goal weight of 150 by the end of July. That means I need to lose about 5 pounds every two weeks. I can do this!!!!!
April 20
Well, it begins....
Since approval for plastics takes a while, I decided to start the process for the tummy tuck. Aetna considers abdominoplasty / suction lipectomy medically necessary according to the following criteria:
Panniculus hangs to or below the level of the pubis; and
The medical records document that the panniculus causes chronic intertrigo (dermatitis occurring on opposed surfaces of the skin, skin irritation, infection or chafing) that consistently recurs or remains refractory to appropriate medical therapy over a period of 3 months.
My PC said she would help me with a letter of medical necessity. Today I called to make a consultation appointment with Dr. Wishnew pn May 5. I am quite nervous about all this...but will take it one step at a time.
Now to do the research.....wish me luck!
April 30
Well, this week I have started my routine of walking first thing in the morning. I walk 1 - 1.5 miles every morning as soon as I get up. Then I use my physioball and do the therapy exercises for 45 minutes. During this time, I drink two bottles of water. After that, I can have breakfast and shower. I have done this for five days and I have to say that I see an improvement in my leg already. It had gotten to the point where it was hurting me a lot again; I think the fact that I was not doing my exercises was part of th
