slimsweetie2004
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Slimsweetie's story .... beginning June 2004 (surgery 10/2004)

Feb 02, 2009

6/1/04
I have FINALLY received the approval letter from my insurance company! YAY!! Now, I wait for a call from them to set up the surgery date, and schedule all of the pre-op testing. ...after, of course, I find out exactly what my cost will be to get this done. I hope its not more than I can afford, after going this far!

Initial posting:
I am waiting on an approval/denial from my insurance company. I had went to the initial consultation on April 5, 2004, and am anxiously waiting -- while I am going through all sorts of tests requested by my PCP, Dr. Hassan. I went through a year (or more) of ups and downs regarding this decision, and I am READY. Especially since I have a good friend (Mary Lou) with whom we can do the "buddy-system" on this.

6/11/04
I now have a surgery date! 8/26/04!!! I am so excited. The other pre-op tests have been scheduled as well, and SOON, I will be joining all the others who are post-op! I cannot wait!

6/24/04
well, the ups and downs of emotions continue today, as I had to reschedule my surgery. I am not happy at all. I got called down to HR at work, and due to this being our busy season (I work for a school textbook publisher/distributor) ... they asked me if I could change it. Sooooooo .. me being the "too nice" person that I am, and not wanting to cause any waves, I gave in. It was not an emergency that I do this right away. So, the date is now 10/6/04. Not a whole lot farther away, .. although right now I feel it is an eternity! I guess I was just looking too forward to getting this "new me" the sooner the better. ....I'm trying to keep positive .... maybe there is a reason for why this happened today? ...

6/27/04
Yesterday was my psych evaluation with Dr. Stote at St. Vincent's in Carmel. I walked in, and the waiting room and all was kind of dark. Not sure that was to be where I should have been, but I walked up to the counter and the sign in sheet was there, and had a note to sign in and have a seat. (smile) So I did. He was very prompt, and a very nice man. He got straight to the point, his questions all flowed very well, and were not too bad. We finished in about an hour. He said he liked working with people like me, and that I was a good candidate, and was ready for this surgery. The only thing he wanted to recomend, was for me to start counseling again. ((I cant afford it!!)) Geez .. will at least check into it, since I now have a different insurance carrier, than when I went the last time. We will see ... Things are moving along ...



7/2/04
Well, my buddy (in this buddy system, thing, we are doing) GOT APPROVED!! I am excited for her. We may not be able to do it the same day, as we had hoped .. but at least we both got approved. (smile)

7/29/04
Well, I guessed wrong on my psych eval. They want me to have this counseling PRIOR to my surgery, and have a report from the counselor 30 days prior to my date of 10/6/04. So .... yesterday was the first meeting with my new counselor .. she seemed like a very nice lady, Chris Durbin is her name. I will be seeing her probably weekly, trying to get this stress eating done away with, and get the final OK for my surgery. I am ready to do WHATEVER it takes. I want this more than anything else! My buddies date is 9/15 ... a few weeks before mine, but, we will work with it. Not much else happening at this point. I have a "skinny" picture on my desk so that I can see it every day here at work, and keep that in mind! Have a great day everyone!



8/24/04
Last week, I had my pre-op meeting with the dietician. WOW .. lots of paperwork and info to remember. We even got a little sippie cup, and baby spoon, along with a St. Vincent Carmel lunch bag. I met a new friend, and enjoyed the class. It was very informative. It seems like 10-6-04 is sooooo far away, though. Everyone keeps telling me the time will go fast. I sure hope so!! I'm a little down right now --knowing that 8/26/04 was my FIRST date, and I cant do it then, but ... keep on keepin on .... !!!!



9/10/04
Today was (hopefully) the last of my pre-op tests that I have to have for surgery. And as far as I know - everything looks good, and is 'a go'.

Its starting to get 'exciting' with the time now moving a little faster than it was. The 10-6-04 doesnt seem so far away. I have even started a 'countdown calendar' on my desk at work, with the number of days left. (smile)

My friend that is going through this 'with me'(from work), her surgery is next week. We didnt get the dates to work out like we wanted, but, at some point, we will both be off work at the same time. Then once I get ready to actually have the surgery, she can walk me through it.

I had to be in Carmel at 7:30 this morning - got lost, again!! Got there - and whoever set up my scheduling for today, had me all set up with the WRONG doctor! So I got that fixed. Then they went to draw blood, and my veins stopped, after awhile, in one arm. So she had to use the 2nd arm too. I felt pretty silly with 2 cotton ball/bandaids on. Nurse got 1 vial of the urin sample - told me to throw the rest away, while she went to get a label. She came back and then realized that she shouldnt have had me throw it out, cuz she needed more!! So I had to wait till the end of all my other tests and go back for THAT again! Geez. After that, I had an echocardiogram (which I had also had one previously this year). Then off to chest xrays,
and some NASTY stuff I had to drink (barium). I saw one of the xrays they took - it showed my s-curve in my spine. That was wild. I knew I had the curvature, but had never seen it like
that before. Then off to an EKG and breathing treatment/exercises that I will have to do prior to, and after surgery, with a breathing machine. Had a short visit with the nurse on what to expect surgery day ... and then off to Indy, for my pulmonary test - which ended up being nothing really. I had to deliver the xrays from Carmel, to the doc in Indy - then he gave them to me afterwards, and said I could keep them as a
souvenior! (ha!) Anyway .. then I came back on home, and got in
around 3:30. A long day of testing.....whew!...glad it is over.

Now, I just wait -- for 10/6/04 to get here. And, pray that things go 100% smoothly with no complications whatsoever!

9/18/04 -
My buddy, 'Mev', is doing just fine after her open, surgery. I am even more anxious now to get mine done!



10/27/04
3 weeks = 30lbs .... yay!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

It's been a rough last week or so. I've had many times where I didn't feel well, or couldn't keep things down. But I am hanging in there. Popsicles and Cream of Wheat are my best buddies right now.....(sigh).... I just wish I could
have some PIZZA !!!!

The part that is the very hardest, is feeling like I can be at work, or anything else for that matter, ... but I simply never know when I might get sick, and I feel so weak most of the time. I'm trying to make myself get out and walk more,
and get all of my vitamins in, daily, as I know that will help.

Next Monday is the follow-up visit with the surgeon Indianapolis), and the dietician's office (Carmel) ... so we will go from there.


10/20/04
Well, here it is, 2 weeks today ......

I had originally thought maybe I'd be going back to work, 2-3 weeks out, but I dont know that I'm quite ready yet. I dont want to go back too soon, and regret it.

The last few days, I feel like I've hit a brick wall.

I've been so emotionally down, I really wish I could have my Zoloft, that the surgeon took me off of (for now, she said).

All of a sudden, I just havent been able to stomach the protein drinks -- dont know why. I dont know if it is the Lactaid milk that I've been using, and was fine till now, or what. The cottage cheese that I was eating fine, with pears, now no longer stays with me.

And, I am just soooooooo freaking tired of eating the same few things over and over. I want something different. BUT I dont want to get sick either ... so what is a person to do?? I dont want to get dehydrated either.

I was doing SO well, and now I just feel really down and blue, ... wondering what in the heck I have done to myself, and why did I do this??????

I'm gonna keep trying other things as far as the protein drinks, and keep on keeping on ..... Otherwise, there are no new updates. I am still here. And dont want to return until I can get things under control. For the most part, I dont have to use any of the pain meds anymore (thank God!), and I am now able to drive. Wish the weather would get better so I can get out and walk more, though.

10/17/04
Well, I am doing alot better than I ever thought I would. I'm not really hungry, and have only craved 2 things so far. I wanted a donut so bad - had a very little bite and I started getting the real bad headache, so I threw it away. I'm missing my job as I am not one to take alot of time off work. But, at the same time, I dont want to go back too early and then regret it, and not have the time to take off. So I will stay home long as I can, then go back and be in good shape. I dont regret it one bit, and would recommend it to anyone else considering it. I was scared - but came out of it in flying colors - no problems. Just looking forward to having some better foods other than pudding and jello!!!

10/13/04
Once I got to the surgery waiting area, my friend who had had the surgery 3 weeks prior to me (MaryLou) came in and sat with me and my husband. That was cool - so she could not only keep me
company - but could keep me informed as to what would happen next. I wasnt as freaked out with her being there. ..the nurse came back and told me that my surgeon was actually running ahead of schedule, so I should be going earlier than 12:30 - which was fine with me. When she did come back, she asked me "did you know you had gallstones?" (that was found from one of the
pre-op xrays I had) I said "no" .. so she explained that she'd go ahead and take care of that while in there - may add another 20 minutes or so. I figured why not -- would save me another trip. Once she left, the chaplain came in and prayed with us. Then the anesthesiologist came in and explained what would be happening. All I cared about, was that I'd be totally out
for it all. (smile)

Then the young gentleman came to walk me into the operating room -- I started crying .. then walked in there and saw all the big lights and the instruments, and it was COLD! A nurse brought me in a warmed up blanket .. next thing I new, I was
on the table, legs being strapped down, and IV's being started. It wasnt long till I was out. (I went in around 12:17pm) Next thing I knew, I woke up in my room around 7pm and was in total
pain. First thought was "what have I done to myself??"

After talking to my husband the surgery itself went fine -- all but the removal of the gallbladder. There was lots of scar tissues and it simply didnt want to come out. Took about 45
extra minutes to get it out. I knew I had had pains in the past - but never knew what it was, and didnt ask. I guess once in my room they kept trying to get me to lay flat on my back -- and I wasnt cooperating -- I wanted to lay on my side. My husband said they finally left me that way. I guess I was moaning and saying "it hurts sooo bad" for the longest time. All I remember was EXTREME pain - although I never really asked too much for the pain meds.

I was on oxygen (supposedly due to the cold I had prior to surgery) and had inflatable things on my legs. And it seemed like I had to go to the bathroom every hour. Had to keep calling the nurse to take all that stuff off so I could get
up. That was a pain. Finally they took the leg things off, and then I could take the oxygen off, and pressure cuff on my arm.

Due to all the extra pain I had, I guess it just kept me moving at a slower pace than others in there. But I eventually started getting liquids and soft stuff (food) on a regular basis. They
started making me get up and walk with my IV machine every few hours. The worst part was having to start giving myself the LOVENOX shots to help keep from getting blood clots. I have to
do that at home now too. ..and am still supposed to be on a schedule with my liquids and soft foods .. and walking ..

I was released Saturday morning, once they saw that I could tolerate being off of the oxygen. I guess normally I would have been out of there on Friday morning. So -- all in all, things went good. I am still in some pain, but do have pain
meds to take. I didnt bother weighing myself ... I know that I did gain a few pounds while still in the hospital, which is normal. And yesterday, my mother-in-law told me I looked really swelled. I'll be glad when the pain is gone, and I can
feel more back to normal. I cant drive until I am off of the pain meds. I'm just glad that this part is over with!

10/6/04
After being told that my surgery would be at 8:30am, today, several weeks ago -- I find out late last night, that it is actually at 12:30pm!!! Geez!! Evidently I am still not getting some of my important mail from someone. Oh well .. I will be leaving here in about an hour. I hope that my cold that I now have thanks to the change in weather, will not prevent me from having the surgery. We'll see. I hope to be back posting an update soon!

10/2/04
Well, my last weekend before the surgery .... its getting CLOSER !!!! I cant wait. Its been a long journey thus far, and I'll bet the 'real' journey is still just in the beginning stages!!! I will do fine, I am sure. ;o)



11/28/04
7 weeks out now .. 43lbs down. Immediately after the endoscopy, boy, I felt like a new person! I could actually eat. My husband fixed chili, and I ate 2 bowls! ..more than I should have, but after not being able to really eat, it was awesome. For about 3 days I felt really really good. Then I got a bad chest cold, and I dont feel as well now. But, still doing good.

Thanksgiving, I had a little meal of turkey, dressing, egg noodles, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, potato salad ... and I just ate real slow. It was good! I didnt overdo it, like I normally would have in past years. (smile)

11/18/04
Well, here I am 6 weeks out as of yesterday -- 40lbs down.

I was still having serious issues with adding the more solid foods and it staying down.

So, yesterday, I had an endoscopy in Carmel Indiana, as requested by my surgeon. I assume everything went "ok".

That doctor told me that there were 2 staples that were loose, and he took them out. That could have been part of my problem. He also opened the opening in my stomach from 8mm to 15
mm. Other than that, they really didnt tell me anything.

I was "out" for the procedure ... it was so wierd. When I woke up, I told Brian, is it over already? I remember talking to the doctor -- and then that was it. Everyone was real nice except
for the 1st nurse that came in and tried to put an IV in the top of my hand. She couldnt get it .. and kept digging and pushing. I was in tears. She finally gave up and called someone else to do it. That nurse came in and got it in right
away - no problem. Geez! I truly dont remember anything else though. I have a sheet that says something about an upper endoscopy in 2 weeks. So I need to call them today to see if I need to schedule an appointment in 2 weeks, or what.

I saw my psychiatrist today. He was not happy at all that my surgeon took me off of my Zoloft. So he is wanting me back on that PDQ, which I will do.

I just seem to already be at a "plateau" with the weight loss. I was hoping for more of a loss by now -- the last 2 weeks or so have been slow.

I started working out twice a week (in addition to walking) at a place in Frankfort, called Trim & Tone. They have those passive exercise beds, that basically do it all for you. I'm hoping
that that will help as well.

11/15/04
I ended up calling Karen at the surgeon's office today. She is going to schedule an endoscopy for me with Dr. Clark. Hopefully that will be my answer to all this trouble with food not staying down. (down 41 lbs now!! yay!!!!!!!)

11/12/04
Well, things are not going so well. I still have lots of issues with eating and things staying down. I am tired .. tired of getting sick .. tired of being hungry and not being able to eat. AHHHHH!!!!!!!!! I checked with the dieticians again yesterday, out of desperation. They told me to go on 24 hrs of clear liquids, 24 hrs of full liquids, then slowly start introducing meats again, and see how that goes. So ... we will see if this helps. This is one of the few days where I have actually thought "WHAT have I done to myself?????". I am thinking that alot of my issues have to do with the fact that my gallbladder had to come out at the same time as the surgery, and that it was not an easy removal for it either. Maybe my recovery time is just going to be longer than others who didnt have that too.

11/1/04
I went to the surgeon's office in Indy ... she thought I was doing well with the weight loss so far (35lbs now) ... I am still struggling with some foods/liquids, so she changed 2 of my meds. The gallbladder pathology report came back basically as normal, and no tumors. I can go back to work as of Wednesday of this week.

Then I went to the dietician's office in Carmel. They kinda got on me. I'm not getting enough food/liquids in, and am still "in ketosis" (starvation) mode. So they gave me some other suggestions to try to get protein and more liquid in. I cannot stand the grape juice, for one, .. but they told me I am gonna HAVE TO force the juice down for 3 days straight, and then once I do that - other foods/liquids will taste better
again, and I'll be in alot better shape. (I still have a cotton-mouth, yucky taste in my mouth 24/7) Everything else - fatigue, vomiting, weakness - should then fall back in place. I
sure hope so!! I go back to the surgeon and dietician in February.

I'll be glad to be back at work, and see all my buddies and coworkers! I'm bored at home. Plus, it will allow me to get in some more walking, too. (walking inside the building)



12/1/04
It's now 8 weeks out (2 MONTHS!), and I am now down 46lbs. Can't wait till I get to 50!

I've been doing real well, since the endoscopy, and go back for a check-up next week. (only got sick once since the procedure, which is great!)

I have joined a 2nd support group that just started in Lafayette. We met Tuesday night, and there was a reporter there from the local paper (J & C). He is to be doing a story on our group, and for my Lafayette buddies, the story is supposed to be in next Tuesday's paper, in the health section.

As for the no-no ... last night I made me a "shake" with vanilla ice cream and Sprite. It tasted pretty good. HOWEVER, after a short while, I guess I had the "dumping syndrome" that people get when they have had too much sugar. My heart was racing, my head was pounding, my chest hurt, and I just kept feeling like I was gonna throw up - even though I never did. It was a
very bad feeling, and something I never want to experience again. I ended up going to bed.

Yesterday was also my first day for eating lettuce. I had part of a salad for lunch, and then a taco salad (a first) for dinner. I wasnt sure how that would work, but it all stayed down
and tasted good.

Now, I just need to concentrate on getting my water (liquids) in each day. I've kind of slacked off on that ....... as well as the vitamins. Oh, how I hate vitamins!!!!!

Work is still going good -- I come in and we make a few laps around the building, walking ... each morning. Then again at break times.

I've gotten a few more of my old clothes out of storage and been able to fit into them. That is just the COOLEST thing. ...getting back into old clothes....and seeing the "current" clothes get really saggy on me. (smile)

12/8/04
Well, here it is 9 weeks. That seems like an awful long time!
I am now, as of today, 49lbs down. YAY ...

Today, I wasnt at work, as I had to return to Carmel Indiana for the return checkup on the endoscopy I had done about 3 weeks ago. And this visit seemed to go even faster than before -- once I got back in the procedure room.

They seemed to be in a hurry -- and had put this strap around my head and a round thing in my mouth to hold my mouth open, before I was even "out of it". I was afraid I'd end up feeling
pain, but I didnt. Once they put that on me, and the oxygen ... then he sedated me, and after seconds of looking around, I must have been out.

The nurses were teasing me -- cuz the girl right before me had the procedure done with NO anesthesia or any pain med/memory med whatsoever. She was going to be going to buy a new car
afterwards -- so she didnt want to be put out. Cuz then she couldnt have signed the legal paperwork. They said she did "fine". So they wanted to know if I wanted to do the say -- told me they were running a special. HAHA .. I told them no way! I had my mind made up, and I had to have the stuff. They told me early today, they had a guy with a colonoscopy, who, too, did it without the meds.

This time, thank God, they got my IV in right away - no problem. The lady I had before, didnt even begin to try it. Which was good!

Once I got back in the room (out of the procedure room), Brian said the doctor came in and talked with me -- but I remember nothing. Brian told me that I kept asking him the same questions time and time again -- haha -- but I sure dont
remember. Its just sooooo wierd after that medication they give you.

The doc told me everything looked good. The opening had gone back to about 10mm. So he dialated it to 15mm again. But said that I shouldnt have to come back again, unless I have more problems. So that is good. Till the end of the year, my insurance is paying 100%. I hope I am done with doc visits now for a long time (till my 4 month checkup with the surgeon, anyway).

We stopped at McDonald's afterwards. I got a double cheeseburger and fries, and iced tea. I ate about 3/4 of the sandwich, with only one piece of the bun. It felt real HEAVY in me, but I didnt get sick at all. Only ate a few of the
fries and Brian finished them off. I was just too hungry to wait till I got home.

I went to the party last night at the Ritz Charles in Carmel. The surgeons at St. Vincent, throw a "party" for all of the surgery patients. It was nice. We all got free pedometers. And
they had veggies, fruit and cheeses with crackers/pretzels/chex mix ... with coffee, hot tea, milk, iced tea, and crystal light to drink. They gave away about 8 door prizes, then that was
it. I guess just more of a mingling time ....some of the surgeons came, some didnt.

Not much else new happening. Although a couple of days ago, I did have a piece of a Tony's pizza. It stayed down. I had been wanting pizza for quite some time -- it was enough to satisfy my craving for it anyway. Now, I'm anxious to
try some chinese food.

12/9/04
Hey -- I did it! I am now 50lbs down!!!!!!!!! 9 weeks and 1 day. Sure, I've got alot more to go, but 50 is the first milestone for me. Cool!

12/15/04
Here it is 10 weeks out - I am down 52lbs, and feeling pretty good. I found out that I no longer snore --which is a good thing, since I guess I was pretty loud. (haha) Now, if I could just get WARM!! I guess I am losing all my insulation with my weight loss!!!

12/23/04
Now, 11 weeks, and 56lbs down. Thats about all there is to report. I've not been feeling like a "new person" or anything, and have gotten sick a few times. But I'll bet its because I ate too fast. I'll have to keep an eye on things. Merry Christmas!!!!!

12/27/04
I wondered why I have been soooo cold all the time now. I was told it is due to low calorie intake and the rapid weight loss, and that after 3-4 months, that that should go away. I sure hope so!!! Holidays were GREAT, and I did just fine! This a.m., though, I had a piece of toast (almost burnt), jelly, and 1 slice of bacon at work. It didnt go down. Had to go make myself get sick to get rid of it. Then for lunch, I had 1/2 of a personal cheese pizza from Arni's. It did fine. Go figure!

12/29/04
Well, 12 weeks now, and I am down 61 lbs as of this morning. I am sooooo happy.

Only thing is, last night I realized I havent been eating too much. Everything I've had lately, well not EVERYthing, but alot of it, after I start eating, I just felt nauseated, so I
stopped eating. I'll bet there have been many times that I didnt get my full 3 oz, or whatever, in for each meal. I'll have to start keeping an eye on that.....

Now, I should be able to have some POP though! I've already tried a little bit of some diet Cherry 7-UP, and added a little water to it. It did ok. Probably the regular diet 7-UP would
have been a better choice though. I'm anxious to try the diet Coke. Coke is my drink of choice, and I would love to have a REAL regular one. (but wont, just yet)

I believe I am gonna have to break down, though, and buy me a couple pairs of jeans. The ones I have are sooooooooo lose. I'll be anxious to see what size I can get into. My waist is the main problem, as I dont believe I've lost a whole lot
right there. But the legs of my pants are just incredibly BIG. I have to do something.

Yesterday, I broke down on the highway, and had to walk quite aways to get to a phone. I was surprised - I walked the whole way (about a mile), not having to stop and huff and puff, and I wasnt even tired when I got there! That's an amazing thing in itself! It used to be that my legs would cramp up really bad, and me not be able to walk very far at all.

I did AMAZINGLY well through the holiday dinners. I just took little bits of different foods, and ate slowly, and when I felt full, I stopped. I didnt have any Christmas candies, cookies, cakes, etc. ... only 1 small piece of a sugar cream pie.
And, even at that, I had to give away part of it. But it tasted GOOD! (mmmm)

I am, however, really missing my support groups. During the month of December, they were cancelled, but will be starting again in January. I cant wait! I do go online, and get into some
of the message boards and talk to others that way, and see how others are doing/read their journeys, etc.

Doing better, I think, on getting my meds in. I just have to make sure I eat something first, then take the most important ones first. Right now, I really am trying to get in my Biotin
pills, they are supposed to help reduce the amount of hair I may lose, and promote skin health. I've noticed my skin getting pretty dry at times. Then the B-12 sublingual pills. I've
heard that some people are taking those every day instead of once a week -- and it wont hurt. So for added energy, I am gonna try that too. Plus I have to take a Nexium for heartburn, my
vitamins - which I just realized dont have IRON in them, and then my anti-depressants.

More and more folks are noticing and telling me that I look real good, so that keeps the smile plastered on my face!!

I did finally have a few pieces of pizza the other day -- and they stayed down. (Arni's pizza) Yesterday I had a chicken/turkey wrap .. it was awesome.

Christmas went well -- basically my Christmas present this year, WAS the surgery, considering the costs I racked up. But, it was worth it, and I'd do it again in a heartbeat!!



2005




1/2/05
I went to Wal-Mart yesterday to get me a pair of smaller jeans, since the ones I have been wearing are all real baggy now .... I tried on a 24W and 26W, since I have been wearing a 28W prior to surgery. They were both too big. There wasnt a 22W and I just knew I couldnt wear the 20W that was there - but I decided to try them on just to see how tight they were, anyway. They FIT!!!!!!! I about had heart failure! Thats SEVERAL sizes just in 3 months time! I love my new tool! This is soooo cool!

1/5/05
13 weeks out, and still at 61 lbs. I had lost 63, but gained 2 back - not sure why. But anyway ... I did have corn on the cob the other day, and it was really yummy. I didnt realize that we could even have corn yet, but it was back on the list at 3 months. Not much else happening right now. (sigh)

1/12/05
14 weeks out, and at 65 lbs down now. YAY!

1/16/05
67lbs down!!

1/23/05
15 weeks, and was down 68lbs at that time. But today - just a few days later, I have now hit 69lbs down. I am excited - getting close to that 200lb mark. All my "old" clothes that I have had for years are now too little too, .. that bums me out. I went today to buy 1 more pair of jeans .. they are a size 18. One size smaller than my first "WOW" moment size of size 20. That is pretty cool. I am feeling much better ... not getting sick much anymore ... the results are starting to really show with everyone else. I cant wait for my new pic to be posted on my profile page. I have an updated one that I sent to be put on there. Not much else going on ....

1/26/05
16 weeks (4 months) out -- and now down 71 lbs! YAY! Still not knowing what size to buy -- went to Wal-Mart yesterday to buy a sweatshirt - bought a 22/24, and it HUNG on me, after getting home and putting it on. I am keeping it - hope it will shrink a little when washed. The 18 just didnt look big enough. (I still dont "see" myself as small, too much yet ...)



2/2/05
17 weeks out -- and now down 76 lbs! I'm doing good - go see Dr. Inman and the dieticians tomorrow, and see what they have to say. Then Friday when I go workout, I'll get weighed and measured - and see where I end up from the last time.

2/8/05
Dr. Inman and the dieticians both were very pleased with my weight loss. Dr. told me to continue doing whatever I was doing. I'll see her in 4 months from now. Dieticians want me to increase the fluid intake (not getting it all in) and to also increase the protein, and get vitamins with iron in it. So .. other than that, doing good. I got weighed and measured last night too, when I went to work out. I have lost another 23 lbs since the last time I weighed at the work out place. And I have lost 13 1/2 inches. Need to really concentrate on the thighs and calves. They arent going down too fast. hmmm...suggestions?

2/12/05
18 weeks out ... Stuck again at 210!! Ugh! I hate plateaus!! I've lost a total of 78 lbs now, and wanted to reach 80 by end of this week (just because). Will keep trying ...

2/16/05
19 weeks out ... still at 210 ... (didnt move till 2/18, and then only 1 lb more lost).

2/23/05
20 weeks out ... down 82 lbs now! YAY! I have been getting dizzy spells though. I will have to see about getting the vits with iron, and see if that is why. Or, it could be that I am not drinking enough I was told. We'll see.



3/2/05
I'm now 21 weeks out, down 85 lbs ... was sitting home with the flu, I thought ... off work vomiting/nausea for 3 days. Finally had another endoscopy on 3/4/05 and it turns out I have ulcers! GEEZ!!

3/9/05
22 weeks out, down 88 lbs to the 200 mark! YAY! Meds slowly kicking in for ulcers ... feeling some better than last week anyway. Nothing else new ....

3/16/05
23 weeks out, down 89 lbs. Negative was the biopsy results from the endoscopy. Nothing new happening.

3/23/05
24 weeks out, down 93 lbs. Bought my first zip up pants since surgery. Now a size 22, ALMOST a 20 -- coming from a tight 28 pre-surgery. Went to my first sit down restaurant - just had to be careful and eat slowly, not drinking between bites.



4/8/05
25 weeks (95 lbs down) and 26 weeks (stuck at 95 lbs down) have come and gone ... not much happening. I did get sick a few times - not sure whats going on .. probably has to do with the ulcers and such. Weather is getting nice .. I'll have to start walking outside again. Getting excited for my trip to AZ in a couple of weeks, for 2 days. ...thats it for now...

4/13/05
27 weeks out and now down 97lbs. STILL waiting on the 100 mark! This past Sunday, I went to my 5 year old nephew's birthday bash, and my sister had rented a moon walk (bouncey thing) for the kids. Well, I had to try it too -- that was good exercise for the ole heart!! But it was fun. I'm doing good - trying to remember all the meds, especially the ulcer ones, to keep that from hurting. Now in a size 18 zip up pant from Wal-Mart! YAY! Lots of folks are now seeing me after not having seen me for awhile. And they are telling me "I didnt even recognize you!" ... or "You are gonna blow away!" (I doubt THAT) ...but it makes me feel real good.

4/28/05
29 weeks out and now down probably 98 or 99lbs. Havent weighed in quite some time now due to problems at home. I went out of town last week to visit a friend in Arizona for 2 days. Had a blast!! (It was my birthday 4/20) Then all heck broke lose once I got home. Things arent going good with the DH, but I will once again attempt to work them out - if it cant be, then I guess we'll do something else. The stress has flared up the ole ulcer .. and the weight loss has been pretty much at a standstill lately. But doing ok otherwise. Am now into a size 18 or 16 zip up jeans - which is cool.

5/5/05
30 weeks out now and down 104 lbs last I checked. Last weekend I became so sick again -- hadnt been taking the ulcer meds like I should have, and I was down all weekend, not eating/drinking anything. I am slowly recooping - taking the meds again - and tomorrow I have my 4th endoscopy. Hopefully they will find something else too, that will explain my sickness, or .. I will get better soon. I am so tired of having problems. I was never this sick before surgery. I am starting to wonder if I should have had it done. Although .. I am pleased that I am 100 lbs down now. I'll try to get new pics soon.

5/8/05
I was honest with my endo doc, Dr. Clarke, and told him I had stopped the ulcer meds early. That was what was making me so sick. It does look better, but not completely healed. So I continue on the meds another 2 months, then have another check-up endo, and we will go from there. I noticed I have now lost 111 lbs. Not a good way of kick-starting the weight loss back up. (ugh!) I'm thinking I am about ready to stop losing the weight. I dont want to be too skinny! Glad to have hit the 100 lb mark though -- that was the only goal I really had.

5/11/05
31 weeks out - feeling much better - gained 1 lb. back, now that I am trying to eat and regain my strength back .... ugh! Oh well ...

5/26/05
33 weeks out - still feeling much better. At 182 right now. But I havent been working out like I should - need to get back on it. Totally leaving "our" apartment end of this month. DH and I have separated for the time being. Not much else happening...



6/6/05
34 weeks out - feeling good. Went to see the surgeon for 8 month check up, and she had an emergency run to the hospital, so I didnt get to see her, herself. I was BUMMED. But the assistant told me I was doing real good, and actually was "ahead of schedule" as far as my weight loss goes. Thats good - but, I havent really had the easiest of times with it either. Ulcer appears to be doing better now that I am on the meds as prescribed. Dieticians want me to increase my water intake and protein - that may be the cause of my dizziness that sometimes occurs. Plus, up the vitamins to 2 a day instead of 1. I got a shirt from them for losing over 100 lbs, which was nice. I go back to both surgeon and dieticians in 4 more months, then hopefully can be released at that time. Need a new "new pic" of me though. Will work on that! Weighing 174 now ...

6/28/05
37 weeks out - feeling good still. I am now down 118 lbs! ...still alot of issues though with the DH....(sigh)...





7/11/05
39 weeks out. I got a letter stating that the endo doc wants to see me again. (ugh) So I now have a return visit scheduled on 7/22/05, first thing in the morning. Hopefully the ulcer looks good and well on its way to healed this time! The DH is getting much better - who knows, we may stay together after all. (smile) Gained 3 lbs this last week - but I havent been exercising and had started in with the candy snacks. So I'll have to watch that FOR SURE. I've come too far to go backwards. Clothes are gettin bigger again - time for new ones! I've been working lots of OT, so hopefully soon will be able to buy some new ones again. Until then, I'll be the baggy lady!! lol




8/1/05
Well, I am feeling pretty good. I went to the endoscopy on 7/22/05 and found out that 1 ulcer had healed, and 1 has not completely healed yet. So I have to go back in 6 months. I guess that is pretty good news. I'm now down to 166 - total loss of 122 lbs, now. People are starting to tell me that I am wasting away to nothing! But, thats allright. (lol) DH is now working a temp job here where I work - as of last Monday. That was nice. We are currently staying at my moms for the time being. Hopefully soon we can get back out into our own place. Size 14 pants is pretty cool now! Shirt size is sometimes XL, sometimes just L.

8/30/05
Doing pretty good still. My psychiatrist upped my meds and told me to be sure and TAKE CARE OF ME for now, and not worry about anything else. He is sure my ulcer is caused from STRESS - and that the surgery just made it a little easier for it to form. So thats what I am doing. I'm still losing a little - gain a few, then lose a few. Tired of the yo-yo stuff. Posted a new pic today .... same ole same ....




9/21/05
Still doing the up and down ... gain a few then loose a few. I'm stuck right around 163 or so ... and getting frustrated. I havent been able to exercise like I should -- so I hope to be able to have the time and finances to start again SOON! Otherwise doing good. Some think I look anorexic now ... and dont want me to lose much more. We'll see. The sizes are still going down, though, .. so I must still be losing in inches if not in pounds. Hmm .. Cant wait for my next surgeon visit for my 1 year check up and see what she says. Still getting/having dizzy spells when I get up from doing anything.




10-6-05
... ONE YEAR ALREADY!!!!! Where has the time gone? Well, I am still fighting the battle of having lost the last 8 lbs, then regaining them .. then losing them .. then regaining. But I havent done the best with either my water intake or my exercising. So I am trying to work on that. I'm still taking my meds pretty religiously for the ulcers to all get healed. I go back for the next endo/checkup in January 2006. I go see my surgeon on 10/10 for my 1 year checkup, ... am anxious to see what all she has to say. The only real problem is still the dizziness when I get up too fast. My mom says it is blood pressure issues .. but I didnt have this problem before surgery ... not like now, anyway ... so .. we will see. I will hear about my lab results, I am sure, as I havent talked with her since those. Some think I'm looking TOO skinny .. but I think I am just right ... if I could just maintain instead of losing/gaining/losing/gaining .... ugh! I've come from a snug size 28 to a snug size 12 .. that in itself is AMAZING!! Still seeing folks who havent seen me for the past year, and they simply cant believe the new me. So that always makes me feel good! Nothing really else to report right now.

10/10/05
... here is a new quote someone else shared with me, that I just LOVE! "When running up a
hill, it’s alright to give up as many times as you wish – as
long as your feet keep moving." By - Shoma Morita M.D.



11/10/05
Well, havent updated in awhile. However, not much is happening. I had gotten down to 158, which would be 130 lbs total loss, but now I am gaining and losing it again - up and down - about 3 lbs either way. Guess I'm gonna have to get used to it. I was so excited, I fit in a size 10 the other day. They were real tight - too tight for me to wear comfortably, or to want to wash them ... but, that was a good feeling. Went to support group, and some folks who hadnt seen me for a couple months didnt even want to walk in with me! (teasing) .. said I didnt look like I even needed to be there! Imagine that! Well, I am feeling real good - and feeling like I look pretty good too! (smile) Things at home are about the same. I went to Nashville, TN on 10/29 and 10/30 - had an awesome time with a friend of mine. I did however get sick the other day. I dont remember what it was I had, but I had to make myself get sick to get rid of the "stuck" feeling I was having. I'm still faithfully taking my meds for the ulcer(s) .. so I hope its healed or close to it. Have to go for another check in January, I believe. I'm hoping that will be the last one, as each time is quite expensive - even with insurance. ...thats all for now. Got my new pic posted on here, and in the "before and after" photos section -- it looks darn good, huh? (haha)

11/21/05
1 week ago today, my mom's 90 y/o "boyfriend" died in an auto accident. We've taken this pretty hard, but are coping better than expected. We sure will miss him!! It just doesnt seem real yet, that he is gone. And since the accident happened right at the entrance to our housing addition, its a constant reminder every time we go in and out. WE MISS YOU BABE !!!!!




12/14/05
Well, doing fine right now. Sometimes I still kinda feel like I have some major heartburn or something going on. I hope that doesnt mean that I have another ulcer that hasnt healed. I've tried SO hard to keep the stress level down - but its been hard with so much going on right now. The weight loss is still going up and down. But as of the last few days, its been going back down. I didnt eat too much this past Thanksgiving ... ate a little then thought I was gonna throw it all up. Thankfully I didnt - but I didnt eat anymore either. I am hoping to do good at Christmas too. I've been snacking a little too much, though, at work, and at home. So I am gonna try to up the water intake and the protein to see if that helps. Now I just need a heavy SWEATER to keep me warm. Its back to freezing all the time! People are still telling me "you are gonna blow away!" and "you dont need to lose anymore" .. but I'd still like to lose this gut. And, the saggy stuff! I havent been able to work out for several months, and I feel that that has really made the sagginess kick in. Because I was doing much better until then ... Hopefully soon I will be able to go back. The exercise beds were awesome, and worked! Waiting now to go to the St. V Christmas Party tomorrow night -- IF we dont get too much bad weather tonight. Last week it was rescheduled due to a snow storm that came in ... I hope that dont have to happen again! We look forward to that party.





12/29/05-
Got home last night and had a summons to small claims court over my hospital bill that is still unpaid. I called the attorney first thing this morning, and I think I have it all straightened out ... just now have alot of court/attorney fees to pay. GEEZ ... this has been a mess and a nightmare. They never got back to me, after I called twice to set up a payment arrangement, long time ago ....! Now this! Oh well .....

2006



1/13/06
Well, it looks like the pending divorce started in April of last year, is now coming to a head. Things have not been good with the DH, and its ending. I hate to see it come to this, but have no other choices, as I fully believe I gave it my all, and nothings getting better. Time to move on .... I now have my 6 month check up on the ulcers, and have to have another endoscopy on this coming Monday. I had hoped they would be healed up by now ... but with all the stress I've been under lately, I am sure they probably have flared up again. We will have to see. ((sigh)) I am still gaining/losing the same 5 lbs. or so. Right around 130 lost still. Guess this is just where I am gonna be for awhile. Oh! I did, 2 days ago, walk 5 miles! (down a state highway, on side of the road) But boy, my legs are really sore now. Didnt hurt while doing it, but after sleeping that night .... wow. Guess I'm outta shape again! LOL

1/17/06
Well, I went for the 6 month check up endoscopy yesterday, and the ulcers are HEALED !!!!!! I was very happy to hear that, as I had been battling them for a good year almost. The only down thing was they dont do the pictures anymore. I would have liked to have seen them... but, thats ok.





2-13-06
Well, I am NOW DIVORCED! (as of last Friday, 2-10-06) He didnt even bother to show up. So that just made it very simple and easy for me. So I am now back to Susan CHAMBERS, my maiden name. I hate to go through all those name changes again, but it will be worth it. I feel like a free woman ... it felt so strange walking out of that court house feeling "unmarried person" status, versus the "married" status when I walked in. LOL. I dont plan on getting into anything else serious right now - gonna take some time to just be me, relax and enjoy life once again.




3-13-06

Well, I have, as of last week, started going back to work out on the exercise beds. I hadnt been able to go since June of last year, because I didnt want the hubby to sit in the car for an hour and wait on me (since he started working here at the same place I work). It feels good, and I really need to try to lose this "roll" thats starting to feel "noticeable" to me, under my shirts. So I am going 3 times a week, here to start, and we'll see what happens. The X hasnt bothered me for awhile - but then again, I pretty much have him blocked from emailing/texting me, so that helps. Nothing else new to report -- still attending the support groups, including 1 new one in Lafayette. Still losing and regaining the same 5 lbs or so. VERY frustrating. But I have begun eating yogurt ... so maybe that will help with the craving the candy. I've been snacking way too much - not sure why or how to get it stopped. But I am trying.




4/6/06
Well, still struggling with the snacking. I have gone back to working out 3 times a week, on the exercise beds - hoping to get rid of this roll around my middle. I'm not sure if its helping, or if its just making the rest of me even more jiggly!!!! Geez ..... I may have to look into the plastics even though I really didnt want to go that route, unless it was a last resort. I found out from my mom that there was a call early this morning at 3:10am. No one left a message, and since she didnt know who it was, she didnt answer. I looked at caller ID, and it was my X. With the protective order, he is not to contact me by phone. So I am not sure why he is starting his shenanigans again .... but he better quit, or I will turn him in. I dont bother him, so he should leave me alone. Anyway ... I am feeling pretty good. I'm not really eating all the veggies/fruits/meats that I should. So I need to work on that. And will try to walk more. A few people here at work are following in my footsteps, as they mentioned I have been an "inspiration" to them ... so I need to stay focused and on track, not only for myself, but for them as well. I didnt do this to go backwards and fail.



4-28-06
Well, the labwork showed that I am anemic, per Dr. Inman. I also had to make an appt with my regular doc who told me the same thing. So I am now, per her suggestion, taking Ferro-sequals, 2x daily, and then have the labwork redone in 5 weeks. Dr. Inman will review again, and my regular doc will do a complete exam at that time as well. Hopefully by then, the numbers will look better. If not, Dr. Inman is going to schedule an upper GI. yuk! 4/20 I was 40 years old. I was soooo depressed on that date. I did NOT want to turn 40. This has been a stressful last few days .. but I will get through it. Work is getting hectic and crazy ..... and only gonna get worse with busy season coming. But, back to my health ... I'm doing fine otherwise. I'm not able to eat more sugar without problems .... and also more bread without problems .... doing great. Working out 3 x weekly ...


7-18-06
Well, its been awhile since I last posted and updated. My iron continues to go downward even with a couple newer iron pills that I've tried. As of Friday of last week, I was supposed to start iron IV infusions. Went to the hospital, and they told me that they wouldnt be able to do it because my regular doctor didnt give them all the info they needed as far as the iron drip or whatever its called. So I got the run-around - had to go back to my regular doc and see them. The doc on call wanted to do an iron workup on me, so I had to get labwork done again. And he put me on yet another iron pill prescription, although my surgeon had just told me the day before, to continue on what she had me on (repliva). Geez ... I've also been waiting on getting an appointment for some sort of hyster-sonogram with my OBGYN doc - they think maybe I am losing too much blood from a possible polyp or cyst ... he wants to do that first to see exactly what is going on. But with his vacation time, I am having to wait an extra month now to be able to have that done. Was hoping to get it done this month. So many doctor appointments .... I'm a little frustrated. Ugh!





9/8/06
Well, its once again, been awhile...... I have now had my first iron IV infusion. It went ok .. just lasted all day ... they told me it would be a month before I'd really start feeling better. I think I am somewhat better ... but havent had much change yet. I was sent to a hematologist who ordered that, and also changed my iron pill to one that wouldnt upset my stomach so much. That definately has helped (not upsetting my stomach) ... but I still have days when I feel just really tired and drained. So we will see. I also had the ultrasound with my OB doc, and he found that I do indeed have some fibroid tumors. I went a week ago, this past Monday and then had a biopsy done. I should hear from that anytime now. I'd like to just go ahead and have the hysterectomy done. I'm 40 and dont need no babies!!! lol ....

Getting ready to move now, this weekend, from Indy to Belleville IN, which is near Plainfield. Work has been VERY busy - working lots of OT, which keeps me stressed. (ugh) I've still been snacking a little too much - need to stop that. Havent been working out like I should, or plain exercising, so I need to work on that as well. I've put back on about 10-15 lbs, and I definately need to get that back off. Would like to get it off by the time I have to go see my surgeon for weighing in at 2 years out. This has been tough. Once I learned I could eat "some" candy without getting too sick ... I've been snacking. And thats gotta change.

Otherwise, not much else new. Just trying to be there for several other girls here at work who have had surgery recently, or who will be having surgery here real soon. I feel GOOD! Will post a new picture whenever I get one. Laters ...




10/10/06
Well, its been two years now ... My most weight ever lost, after surgery, was 130 lbs. I've gained almost 20 back - which I am NOT happy about. But, I've had other issues going on as of late, which have contributed to this, I am sure. I've only had one labwork since the iron IV infusion - so I am not sure yet where I am on that. Both my regular doctor and surgeon were to have sent me orders for more labs, but I have yet to see them come in the mail - although I have moved, and changed my address twice since June of this year. So maybe its "in the mail" somewhere. I have a pretty stressful (during summer months, mainly) job, so I have caught myself headed back towards some old habits of snacking too much throughout the day, and then sitting on my butt, chained to my phone all day. ...not good... But I am working on that. It is tough. Otherwise I feel pretty good right now. I'm not sure I'm getting enough protein, in, STILL .. because still having alot of hair breakage, and nail splitting. I'm so very glad I had the surgery - but, let me tell ya, it has NOT been easy. I moved pretty far from where my exercise place was at, as well as my support groups. So both of those areas have seen a major decline in my activity level - which is not good either. I need to get motivated again to get with it. I believe in both of those things STRONGLY to be successfull with the surgery. Otherwise, you might as well forget it. Not sure what else to say right now -- may have more news later (another week or so) -- if anyone has any questions, feel free to contact me. I'm from Lafayette (born and raised), but since June - moved down to Indy - and now in Bellville, which is close to Plainfield. I went on a business trip to New Jersey last week, so I am hoping to have some new pictures SOON!



10-19-06
I AM PREGNANT !!! Yesterday I had the first ultrasound, and I was told I am 10 weeks and 4 days based on that. WOW. This wasnt supposed to happen, and I didnt think it could ever happen -- not to ME! Geez ... oh well. I am gonna make the best of it.


12/6/06
Well, my sister had her baby on the 4th - she had a girl! Now, we are just waiting for my turn. LOL. My due date is set for May 12 2007. Not sure what I am having yet. We shall see, soon though. Go for a special ultrasound on 12-18.

I went to the St. V Bariatric Christmas Party last night. It was a ton of fun! I hope to have some new pics soon!

2/10/08
Havent updated in a LONG time .. but I had my son on 5/10/07, c-section, due to him being breach. I was in and out of the hospital so many times, mostly due to dehydration ... but I am glad its all over with now, and I have a healthy baby! I have all my baby fat to lose still - havent been able to work out like I did after surgery (cant afford it now) ... so I've put on a little weight ... but still able to get into the same size I wore after surgery. So its all good. Will get it off eventually .. maybe when the weather warms up. Feel free to drop me a line sometime! I dont get out here much .. but am still around. LOL.






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Photos

288
Christmas '03 -- HATIN this me!!
158
October 2005 - skinny me!


Hospital Reviews
About Me
Clayton, IN
Location
45.1
BMI
RNY
Surgery
10/06/2004
Surgery Date
May 22, 2004
Member Since
Before & After
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Christmas '03 -- HATIN this me!!
288lbs
October 2005 - skinny me!
158lbs
Friends 3
Latest Blog 2
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