Snoopy
I met with my regular doctor on 3/8/05 and discussed a gastric bypass. He didn't think that I would qualify because even though my BMI is 42 and I am over weight, I am extremely healthy. I do not have high blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis, or any other ailments on his list.
I was wondering if anyone else has encountered this problem? He said that he would submit my name for a referal, but didn't think that they would approve me. I go to Kaiser, Roseville.
I received notification from Kaiser that I have an appointment on April 18, 2005, for "Obesity Surgery Info Group". Anyone know what that is?
July 1, 2005
Time flies when you are having fun!!!
I attended the "Obesity Surgery Information Group". It was a joke. However, one of the hoops that you have to jump through. The speakers do everything possible to discourage you from the surgery and somewhat belittle you because you can't lose weight on you own. It was a very poor presentation. It certainly could have been more informative and more encouraging. Quite disappointing.
I was assertive and had already made my appointment for the sleep apnea test 4/18/05. The actual sleep apnea test was 4/22/05. I failed the first test and was rescheduled for the second test on 5/31/05. Being an assertive person, I called daily for cancellations. I got an appointment 5/10/05. I figured that I saved myself a couple of weeks!
I know that some of you will cringe, but I gained an additional 22 pounds to make sure that I weigh enough. I don't want to be disqualified for any reason. My doctor didn't think that I weighed enough! (Oh please!!!) I am at my all time high!!
Turns out that I have mild sleep apnea!!! What a shock!!! Who would have ever known? Not me!
My doctor at Kaiser has been so great.
Three years ago I had a terrible car accident. I was rear ended and shoved under a truck. It has taken me the last 2+ years to recover. I will always have vertebrae problems and some memory issues, brain damage. The reason I share this is because I don't want you to think that my doctor and I are totally crazy.
Because of the terrible pain that I endured for over 2 years, my blood pressure was always elevated. My doctor wasn't concerned becasue apparently when people are in alot of pain, their blood pressure goes up. A natural reaction.
There were times that I saw him for a cold and had been taking entex. My blood pressure was up a bit. He wasn't worried about it because entex will elevate your blood pressure.
However, when I spoke to him about the weight loss surgery, he reviewed my whole file and called me in for a blood pressure check. I still am having high blood pressure. I have never had blood pressure issues before the car accident.
At least I qualify on paper - overweight, sleep apnea, and high blood pressure!!!!! With Kaiser, family history doesn't count.
At this point, I am trying my third medication for high blood pressure. The first medication made me wheeze. I sounded like I had swallowed a harmonica!! The second medication made me sick as a little pup!
My doctor wants me to be on a medication at the time that he turns my paperwork into the Kaiser Board in San Francisco.
I do wish that they would hurry up! I do know that Kaiser is slow. I'm just going through the processes.
I am very appreciative that my doctor is trying and working with me to ensure that I qualify.
My turn will come.
June 5, 2005
I am almost afraid to say it out loud!!! I got my letter from Kaiser on Saturday. I have been approved for surgery. It happened alot faster than I expected. I know that I have a ways to go yet, lots of appointment before the actual surgery. I think the biggest mountain has been climbed.
I started this process with my primary doctor on April 18, 2005. I have to give my doc credit for directing me and making this happen. I go to Kaiser, Roseville.
I'm a little nervous, but very excited too!
September 15, 2005
It has been suggested that I post more often, but there hasn't been any great progress with the surgery.
It's been a hot and long summer. Henry, my husband, and I bought and moved into a new house. That was a chore!!
We went to San Carlos Mexico for our first wedding anniversay. That was fun, romantic and extremely hot and humid!! We had lots of fun.
I have found myself looking at food and wondering if I'll ever be able to enjoy it again. I know that I can do the surgery part, but I am wondering what I'll be able to eat afterwards. Yeah, I know about the liquid and puree diet, but I'm talking about later when the doc says that you can eat again. I have heard and read so much about people not being able to eat stuff, throwing up, constipation or how about that you can eat something one week and the next week it makes you sick.
I have read both of Carnie Wilson's books. I read the little booklet put out by the ObesityHelp.com.
The conclusion is that no one knows how you will turn out or what your limits will be. Follow the doctors orders to a "T" and there is no guarantee how you will turn out. Sounds like a crap shoot. Yikes!!
FYI - The 4th medication for high blood pressure didn't lower my blood pressure, but it did make my lips go numb and my left foot went numb. The doctor changed my blood pressure medication again, this is my 5th medication. I haven't had any bad reactions to it so far, but my blood pressure is not better!! My lips and left foot are still numb from medication #4. The doctor expected this to go away in a few weeks. It's been 2 weeks since I started #5.
I have 2 appointments at South San Francisco Kaiser on 9/20/05. The first one in the morning is the "Orientation Class". I am assuming that this is different than the "Obesity Surgery Information Group" that my husband and I attended 5/16/05. The the afternoon of 9/20/05, there will be the "Lifestyle I" class. We'll be at Kaiser all day for these two classes. With driving time, this will take all day, a long day.
While we were in Mexico, I got another card from Kaiser for 10/27/05. I was curious about what this appointment was for, so I calld Kaiser Bariatric Section in S.F. Turns out this is for a 45 minute meeting with the dietician. With driving time, I'll miss another day of work.
The person answering the phone at Kaiser told me that I could go ahead and start losing my 10%. In the "Orientation Class", they specifically said, "Do not lose any weight until you weigh in in S.F. The lady told me that it was ok to start losing weight because they have my starting weight in my Kaiser file. I wondered months ago why they wouldn't just go by your Kaiser chart???
I gained 22 pounds to make sure that I weigh enough!! So one is telling me go ahead and start the 10% and one is saying "no" don't start yet. I made another phone call to the Bariatric Section, explained my situation. I was told not to start losing any weight until the 9/20 Orientation.
I am a bit concerned, because I lose weight so very slowly. My body just hangs on to it for dear life.
Here is what I really learned today. Once you are approved and attend the Orientation in S.F., you are weighed in and are to start your 10% at that weight. The reasoning for not wanting anyone to start any earlier is because they are concerned that a patient may lose their 10% and gain it back before the surgery date arrives. Once you lose your 10%, then the surgery is scheduled and it could take 2 - 3 months before you have surgery. They are concerned that we won't be able to keep the weight off for a couple of months!!!! I find that offensive and irritating!
It takes me months to lose weight. It took me a year to lose 50 pounds!! I could have been using the past 4 months to work on my 10%!!! Why don't they understand that it is prolonging the process for us? I don't have a problem with requiring the 10% loss, I do have a problem with them prolonging the process. Some of us could be ready for surgery right after we attend the required classes. Can you tell that I'm aggrivated????
Knowing what I know now, I would have already been working my 10% and be ready for surgery that much sooner.
My advice to anyone reading this and working their way through the Kaiser hoops, I'd start losing my 10 percent right away.
I also learned today that after my 45 minute meeting with the dietician, I would be scheduled for another appointment in S.F. to meet with Dr. Stiles. She is in charge of the entire Bariatric Section in S.F. She makes the determination whether a patient is ready for surgery or refers them to see a shrink first. That ought to be a fun appointment!!
I am working my way through the Kaiser maze!! It's just a matter of time until I'm a loser. Time is going to go by anyway.
I promise to update more after 9/20 when I learn more of the process.
10/21/05
I have an appointment with Dietician on 10/21/05. I met her at the last meeting, she seemed quite pleasant. She is pregnant.
I also have received a notification from Kaiser that I have an appointment with Dr. Linda Stiles, on 11/17/05.
After the board that I read today regarding someone being directed to go through a 24 week nutrition class, I can't help but wonder what they are going to throw that at me. So far, no one has mentioned such a thing.
My regular doctor has changed my blood pressure medication again. This time, I'm not having any reactions, he just doubled it because my blood pressure isn't any better.
We'll see what happens.....
02/08/06
I've been quite bad about updating my profile. The truth is, I was not enthralled with the Kaiser process, mostly the rediculous classes that were mandated. Everyone must complete the 4 required classes or no surgery for you!!
We had our first of four required classes in South San Francisco. What a shocker!! I was less than impressed. These classes are the reason that I have not updated my profile. I was concerned that Kaiser might hear of or see my comments and that I would be black balled. When all is said and done and I have had my surgery, I will be writing Kaiser a detailed letter to help them improve their program and better benefit their patients.
I was very good about watching what I ate and keeping the required food diary. (Much like Weight Watchers) Keep track of your food intake, water and exercise. I was losing weight.
On 10/21/05 my husband and I drove to South San Francisco Kaiser and met with the dietician. She quickly reviewed my food diary. She stated that she was pleased with my weight loss. We quickly discussed various foods. I presented her with some labels that I though would benefit her and future patients. Some vegetarian foods that have no fat and very high in protein. She was very interested.
Turns out that I was asking her if she had any more questions, which she didn't. My 30 minute meeting was over in 15 minutes. She informed me that she would be writing a glowing report regarding me for Dr. Stiles. Of course, I didn't tell her that I purposely gained 22 pounds to ensure that I would be accepted into the program.
On 11/17/05 my husband and I had our appointment with Dr. Stiles. Unfortunately, she had been sick with a terrible cold and could hardly talk.
She reviewed my food diary, my exercise and the fact that I had lost some more weight. She was very impressed with my progress. She asked questions about my weight history, my car accident, my hiking the Grand Canyon and what I would miss most after surgery. I told her that I would miss pizza.
She signed off on my papers approving me for surgery. She said that they are very back up on their surgery schedule and I would probably have surgery in February or March 06. (Ok with me!)
When you are working your way through the Kaiser process, don't be in a hurry. You will become very distraught and upset. Just know that they only have one speed. On and off.
I am finally a loser!!!!!!! I had my surgery at Kaiser in South San Francisco. My doc was Dr. Thomas Umbach, a great guy.
The weird thing was that I wasn't scared. I felt quite confident that this was the right move for me. I wasn't looking forward to the IV or any pain, mostly I focused on getting past the surgery.
I went into the hospital around noon on 2/23/2006, I was prepped and off to surgery around 2:00 p.m. I remember waking up in the recovery, I was in absolutely the most horrible pain. I could hardly breath. I woke myself up moaning, at least I think. The doc and nurses were all around me. The doc ordered an ekg. Oddly, I heard him. He asked again how the pain was and where. I could hardly answer him, I don't think I was too awake. He said that if I didn't tell him where the pain was that he couldn't help me. (What the heck!!! I was 3/4 asleep or more!!) I squeeked out that the pain was in my chest. I was still having trouble breathing. He ordered a second ekg. I do remember thinking, oh great I've gone through this surgery just to have a heart attach. CRAP!! I never had heart trouble before.
The doc said that it was the gas that they use to inflate us that was causing my pain. He ordered the nurse to give me some pain med. I could feel the instant relief, the pain was lifting, I could breath and off to sleep I went.
I don't remember anything else until I opened my eyes in my room around 5:00 p.m. Boy was I drugged!!!!
My husband showed up and my little sister, I could hardly keep my eyes open!!! I decided that I was awake enough to try walking. I know how important it is to walk. The moment I started to get up, I got so nauseated. I hate to throw up. I got all hot too. I crawled right back onto my bed and the nurse came in with a shot. The barfies went away.
My husband and sister left. I was so tired, I just put my little head down, closed my eyes and went to sleep. I thought that I would sleep for hours. Actually I only slept for 2 hours.
I decided to try my dance shoes again. I called for a nurse, got up and walked down the hall. The nurse told me not to walk so fast. HAHAHA I wasn't walking fast. I made a couple of rounds of the hall and went back to bed. Drank more water. Went back to sleep.
The hospital is not place to sleep, in case you didn't know that!!!! Everyone at Kaiser has a private room and bath, but the noise in the hall is enough to raise the dead. I woke up about every hour on the hour and some inbetween.
In the morning, about 5:30 a.m., I was out beating my feet in the halls again. Everyone told me to get my butt up and walk. It would help me to recover quicker. I wasn't taking a chance that they might be wrong. I walked the halls. This time it was just me, no nurse to assist me.
My surgeon came by to see me around 9:00 and checked on me. Asked me if I felt like going home today or would I like to stay another day? Are you kidding???? I needed some sleep!!!! He said that he would start the discharge. I hadn't even been there 24 hours, but I was ready to go home.
The nurses came right in and took out the IV's, one in each hand and the catheter.
(Quick note here because my mind is faster than my fingers. I had the best care and patient staff. I made it no secret to my surgeon, anasteologist, nurses, everyone, that I was a big baby. I had never been in a hospital, never had stitches, never had an IV, nothing!!!! I asked them all to be gentle with me because it was my first time, a virgin. It helped to break the ice and actually it let all of them know that I needed extra patience, love and care. I can not say enough about the staff and care that I received. I was quite impressed.) So much for my quick note. HAHAHAHA
This is the part that I also wanted to share. For those of us that are worried about the pain or the horrible level of pain. The five little incisions are nothing. They aren't really pretty, but not painful. I was thrilled about that!!! However, I was not prepared for the pain and discomfort fom the blowing up part!!! Oh my God!!! My ribs and sides hurt so much. I even asked the doctor about this and he told me that the reason that it hurts so much is because they stretched everything when they inflated me. He said that the patients look like they are 12 months pregnant by the time that they are inflated enough to perform surgery.
Now let me assure you that I doubt that there isn't a reader here, man or woman, that isn't going to know the pain that I am going to describe. Close your eyes, imagine that last night you did 100 sit ups. You know that sore muscle feeling that you would wake up with today??? That is it!!! Just really sore muscles. I have to say that the pain has decreased every day.
I took the pain medication on Friday 2/24 because of the 3 hour drive home. I hate the way that stuff makes me feel. I haven't taken any pain meds since. It just feels like I've done a few too may sit ups. HAHAHAHA yeah right!!
Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights I could only sleep 2 hours at a time. I would just wake up!! No extreme pain problems. I think it was just that my body isn't used to anestesia. I was tired, but couldn't sleep. Didn't even nap during the day. I tried to, just couldn't sleep.
The good news is that last night I slept like a baby!! I feel so much better today.
I have so much more that I want to share, but I'm tired.
I can not thank you all enough for sharing your journeys. With love and support we learn so much from each other.
God bless you all. My advice is to stay focussed on what you want.
VITAMINS/PROTEIN/WATER and more!
Not counting what I can eat, I get 75 grams of protein a day - www.PROTICA.COM I drink 80 to 100 ounces a day of water. I take my vitamins, Mega Multivitamin with Minerals
Viatmin A 48 IU
Vitamin C 250 mg
Vitamin D 400 IU
Vitamin E 100IU
Vitamin B1 50 mg
Vitamin B2 50 mg
Viatmin B6 50 mg
Vitamine B12 200 mcg
Niacin 50 mg
Folic Acid 400 mcg
Pantothenic Acid 50 mg
Calcium 150 mg
Iron 18 mg
Iodine 225 mcg
Magnesium 100 mg
Zinc 10 mg
Copper 2 mg
Manganese 5 mg
I take the multi vitamin twice a day
Twice a day I take additional calcium and Iron.
Once a week I take my B12 - 2,500 mcg
Now that I've shared all of that..... In the first month after surgery, I lost 22 pounds. I have not lost a pound since. I do bounce back and forth 2 - 3 pounds.
I am assuming that I am experiencing a plateau. I'm not thrilled believe me. But I'm hanging in like a champ.
2/23/06 Surgery Day – weight 260 – highest weight 288
Kaiser South San Francisco
Dr. Umbach
Had surgery about 2:p.m. Spent the longest time waiting in the pre surgery room waiting my turn. Dr. Umbach, my surgeon, came in to chat with me and see if I had any last minute questions. He was quite playful and funny. I had already drilled him with a ton of questions at our original meeting. It was just nice to see his smiling face. I asked him if he slept well last night and inquired if he had already had lunch. I didn’t want him to be sleepy or hungry when he was working on me. I told him that too!!
When the nurse arrived to put in my IV, I explained that I was a total virgin!!! I had never been in a hospital, never had stitches, never had an IV…. nothing and that I was a big baby, so please be gentle with me. The IV was my biggest fear. He was wonderful. He gave me this painful hot shot on top of my hand. Once the area went dead, he inserted the IV. Needless to say, I didn’t watch. It didn’t even hurt!! I was quite relieved!!! Pain is an ugly thing.
A good note: they put the catheter in after I was asleep. Thank God I wasn’t awake for that humiliation!! I had no problems or discomfort from the catheter.
Also, at Kaiser, we didn’t have any drain tubes. Another blessing!! I’ve read and heard horror stories about drain tubes. Another blessing from God, didn’t have to deal with that!!
I wasn’t nervous at all. I knew that I had prepared myself for this journey. I had done my homework. And as always I have my faith. I knew that God would take care of me. I was sure that I had his blessing for this surgery.
Pretty soon it was my turn!! They drove my bed down the halls into parts of the hospital that the average bear never sees. As we approached the operating, room music was roaring out the door. I asked if they too requests. The nurse made them turn down the music.
The anesthesiologist was wonderful. I have had a terrible neck injury from a car accident. He was gracious enough to have rolled towels under my neck for support. It felt great. Once I had adjusted myself from the gurney to the operating table he asked me how I was doing and I told him that I was just fine. He said ok then give her the shot. I felt this warmth run up my arm, I turned my head to the side as I felt the second burst of warmth coming up my arm. I thought to myself, Oh, I’m going to sleep.
The next thing I know, I have this terrible pain in my chest!! I can hardly breath. I can hear people talking, but can’t make out what is being said because I am making so much noise!!! The noise was me!!! On my right hand side is a nurse talking and on the left hand side is Dr. Umbach. He was talking to me. In my head, I’m thinking, “What the hell is he asking me? I’m sleeping!” And then immediately I realize that I’m having so much pain and trouble breathing. Dr. Umbach said, “Maureen you have to wake up and talk to me or I can’t help you. He asked me where my pain was. Somehow I relayed that it was in my chest. He asked me if I had ever had pain like this before. In my drunken stupor, I actually had to lie there and think about the question before I could answer. No I had never had pain like this.
Dr. Umbach ordered an EKG. AN EKG???? What the hell!!! I didn’t have heart trouble. At least I didn’t have heart trouble before the surgery. Oh great, I’ve had this surgery and now I have heart problems? I was a healthy specimen before the surgery. I fell deeper asleep again. Thank God.
I was still having a lot of pain and trouble breathing. Dr. Umbach asked me again about my pain. They did another EKG. Then I heard him say, she’s ok, give her another shot. I felt the warmth running through my veins. The pain started to subside, I could breath easier and I fell right back asleep.
That is all I know about the recovery room. I never opened my eyes in the recovery room.
When I woke up, I was in my hospital room sitting up in bed. I have no recollection of how I got there.
The only pain I had was my chest and ribs. It reminded me of when I was in a car accident and your ribs hurt from the seat belt. That’s the best way that I can describe it.
My husband and sister were there to visit with me. I could hardly keep my eyes open.
Everyone stresses that as soon as you can get up off of your fanny and walk the halls. That is what I did! I am a fast walker. As soon as my feet hit the floor, I was off! I was dragging my IV pole up and down the hall. The nurse that was assisting me kept telling me to slow down. I told her to speed up.
2/26/06 – Sunday (Day 3) Weigh 258
First morning of my new life!!! Breakfast, sugar free Jell-O and water. Pain level was 5 – 7 (ribs) I used the drug drip. I was afraid of having too much pain.
“Buyers Remorse” had already set in, but I knew that there was no going back. My ribs were killing me. It brought back memories of the painful car accident. Yuck!! The incisions were no problem at all. Wouldn’t even know that they were there if you didn’t peek!
Dr. Umbach came by to see me in the morning told me that I could go home if I wanted to or that I could stay for another day if I wanted to. Who would want to stay in a hospital for an additional day? There is nothing like your own bed and pillow!! I opted to go home. Thank you very much.
Note: I weighed 266 when I got home from the hospital. Gained a whopping 6 pounds!!! It’s a bummer, you don’t eat anything, drink very little and you are up 6 pounds!!! This is very common.
The drive home was a trip to hell! I think we hit every crack, bump, and hole all of the way home. We drove from South San Francisco to Roseville. I thank God again because I finally fell asleep about halfway home. Who knows??? I was already entering the world of the living dead. I was so tired and sleepy.
We went to bed about 9:00 p.m., got up at 10:30 to go to the bathroom. I couldn’t get back to sleep. At 12:30 p.m., I was watching TV. I ate a sugar free pudding and ½ tube of Protica – protein drink.
February 25, 2006
I took a pain pill hoping it would help me sleep.
Up at 2:30 a.m. – go to the bathroom
Up at 4:30 a.m. – go to the bathroom
Up at 6:30 a.m. – go to the bathroom
Up at 8:00 a.m. – took a shower
I was very tired and sleepy, but could only sleep for 2 hours at a time. The doc told me later that this was probably due to the anesthia. That must be some wicked stuff!!
Breakfast – ¼ cup fat free cottage cheese
½ cup protein
Took all of my pills – no problem
Took a walk around the neighborhood and watered flowers in the front yard.
Watered myself. Drank more water.
Lunch – ¼ cup of fat free cottage cheese
Nap time – slept for 1 hour
Got up from nap and made chicken broth with cream of mushroom soup (pretty good, at least it was warm)
1 tube of protein
Feeling pretty good. Ribs are so sore. Neck is sore too. I haven’t had any trouble eating or drinking. No problems with incisions.
Had my son John clean the kitchen, my husband, Henry, vacuumed the house.
Took a walk to the park, one block from our house. Just want to get some walking in, not kill myself.
Took another nap in the afternoon. The sleep sure felt good!
Dinner – cream of mushroom soup with chicken bouillon – tasted pretty dang good! I figure I’ll probably end up hating it, but right how, it really hits the stop. Not like I’m eating a lot!!!
Working on my second bottle of water. 20 ounces per bottle. This makes 40 ounces so far.
Fixed my first Protein shake this evening. It was strawberry flavored protein. I added liquid vanilla, vanilla soy milk (fat free) and lots of ice. I must say that after not eating really anything, this strawberry flavored protein drink tasted absolutely delicious!!! We can’t suck on a straw, I ate it with a baby spoon. Just a little bit at a time. It was heaven. I couldn’t even finish it all.
Still working on my second bottle of water. It seems that I am drinking something all day long. That is all I did today.
February 26, 2006
My blood pressure is very high this morning. I had a headache all night, still have it.
Drink 25 grams of protein.
Slept a bit better last night. Woke up between 1:30 a.m., - 3:30 a.m. I hate having so much trouble sleeping. I normally sleep like a baby. I’m really tired, just can’t sleep… go figure… anesthesia.
In the wee hours of the morning as I was sitting on the couch, I was over ridden with guilt. I felt so badly because of how my surgery had and would change our lives. I did think of this before the surgery and discussed in length with Henry.
Noon – have had one strawberry protein shake. It has taken about 3 hours to drink it all – very good!!
Took a shower.
I am feeling pretty good. But I am still tired. Hopefully, once the drugs are out of my body, I’ll be able to sleep better.
I took my first poop since surgery. It was like shitting little rocks!! Gross! (Prepare yourself!! If you are thinking about having gastric bypass surgery, we don’t just talk about food, water and protein. Bowel movements and lack of are often the topic of the day.)
I am sure that I am getting enough protein. I drink 3 vials a day plus have one protein a day.
Tomorrow I will have a check up appointment with Dr. Y, my regular MD. My blood pressure today is 131/79.
II don’t think I’ve experienced any head hunger, fine with me! I am really busy drinking water, eating tid bits and drinking protein & protein shakes.
Henry is being an absolute love and very understanding. I sway back and forth whether this was or wasn’t a good idea. It was great that Henry attended all of the classes with me because he remembers things that I have forgotten. He remembered that I would feel guilty or selfish. I’ll be glad when more time has passed by.
Dinner – ¼ cup fat free cottage cheese
Henry and I shared a sugar free popsicle today. It tasted delicious!!
It’s hard to watch TV with all of the dang food commercials. I can’t stand watching food preparation programs either.
I had a dream last night that I was eating a cold raw carrot that had been dipped in ranch dressing. It was delicious. I could taste it!! What a funny thing to dream about.
It is beyond weird that I’m not hungry. Normally, I’d be starving with the amount of food that I’m eating.
159/95 Blood Pressure
Pulse 74
132/78 7:30 p.m.
Had protein drink – good
Just checked Kaiser’s binder, doing everything right on per Kaiser. Just wanted to recheck Kaiser’s advice and make sure that I’m on track. I want to do this right and am afraid that I might forget an important part.
I made dinner for Henry tonight and a pot of soup! I did get pooped out just from cooking. Hope I can sleep well tonight.
Incisions are no big deal, but my ribs actually make me catch my breath.
Appointment with Dr. Y tomorrow morning 8:40 a.m.
2/27/06 Monday
Woke up at 12:30, 3:00, 5:30, got up at 6:30
Saw Dr. Y this morning. Forgot to ask him why I’m having so much trouble sleeping. I’m still guessing that it’s from the drugs at the hospital.
My blood pressure was really good with Dr. Y. We discussed by diabetes. He checked my blood test history in the computer and stated that I am still a pre-diabetic. I have been considered a pre-diabetic all of my life. Friday, I am having blood work don to check my sugar levels.
Dr. Y said that I looked good and everything sounded good. I am feeling great. My ribs/muscles still hurt. Dr. Y said that they would hurt for another 2 – 3 weeks. Great!!
This is the first day that I’m home alone. Henry took me to the docs this morning and has now left for work. Just me and the dogs here!
I do get tired easily.
Took a poop at 3:00 a.m., this morning. Just took another little poop!!! I haven’t eaten anything, but liquid stuff, so I’m sure that I’m just cleaning out. Amazing! I don’t want to be constipated!!!
Breakfast – ¼ fat free cottage cheese mixed with chicken bullion
Protein Shake and 1 tube of protein
Lunch – ¼ cup of sugar free butterscotch pudding.
Water, water and more water.
Couldn’t take a nap. I am so tired and I couldn’t fall asleep. I tried!! The dogs slept for me.
I don’t understand why I can eat with no pain? When I drink protein shakes and soup, no pain. Water seems to go down like a rock. I sip the water and it still feels like little rocks. Maybe its because I still have such sore muscles. (Now if you think about that, it just doesn’t make sense!!!) Liquid should be liquid. Go figure!!
Got another headache coming on.
4:30 p.m. Blood Pressure 1136/83, pulse 73
I can’t help but wonder if my headaches are caused by the high blood pressure. Good question.
After my car accident, I lived with headaches 24 hours a day 7 days a week for about one and a half years straight. Maybe even longer, can’t remember for sure. I wouldn’t wish that kind of pain on anyone.
2/28/06 Tuesday – Pay Day
Blood Pressure 126/75
Pulse 68
I feel so much better today!!
Bought a little kids sippie cup last night to help me drink with out pain. I thought that maybe I’m drinking too much water too fast. It’s the only reasonable thing I can think of. Why I can swallow soup and cottage cheese and water hurts.
Found on ObsityHelp.com – list of approved medications for us.
www.geocities.com/tiger angie/drugs
Breakfast – ¼ cut fat free cottage cheese – protein vial
Lunch – water, water and water – protein vial
Dinner – Protein Shake
Snack – ¼ cup of fat free cottage cheese with chicken bullion
Realized today that I am getting 75 grams of protein a day!!! HOORAY FOR ME!! Everything that I’ve read or heard is that most of our problems come from a lack of protein and/or lack of water. I definitely have the protein covered and am working on the water. I’m pushing for 60+ ounces of water a day.
Had lots of water today. It rained today, again. However this afternoon the sun came out. I put on my tennis and went out for a walk. I took Prissy (our youngest dog) with me. I won’t do that again!!! She pulled on her leash so much, my left side is almost as bad as it was last night. My right side is minimal to no pain.
I felt so good this afternoon, I even fixed dinner for Henry. It smelled good, but I had no desire to eat it. I know that my tummy is healing and isn’t ready for real food yet.
Today I had 2 poops!!! Almost like real turds. This afternoon I had a bout of diarrhea!! Pooping straight water!! Only the one time. Weird. I know that diarrhea can be very dangerous for us.
I slept so well last night. I was really thrilled. I’ sure that a good nights sleep has attributed to how great I feel today. I even took a little nap this morning.
Henry and I think that maybe the anesthesia is finally working its way out of my body, resulting in sleeping and feeling better.
I pray to God that I’ll be able to sleep again tonight.
Tomorrow is Wednesday, almost a week since surgery. Amazing how fast this week is flying by!!
3/1/06 – Wednesday – weigh 254
Blood pressure 123/71 pulse 69
Slept like a baby again last night – heaven!!!!!
It’s amazing how a good night sleep can help you feel better.
Breakfast – Water and protein
Sat on the back patio and loved the sun today. Spent a little bit of time on Obesityhelp.com today. My son, (John), his computer is hard on my neck and eyes. It’s a tiny laptop.
Our neighborhood is very new and mostly still under construction. I took a walk today to the models. I walked through all the models, up and down all the stair! I got a bit tired and sat in this wonderfully comfy chair in one of the master bedrooms in the sun. I put my feet up on the stool and relaxed. I had a bottle of cold water with me, so I was in fine shape. It was so comfortable and warm in the sun, I almost fell asleep! I really wanted to go to sleep, but I made myself get up and move. How would it have looked if some perspective buyer was walking through the model and there I was asleep in the chair in the master bedroom! Something like Goldie Locks and the Three Bears!!
When I was leaving one of the models, Kevin and Dave showed up. Kevin works for the contactor and Dave is the real estate guy that we bought the house from. Dave lives in our neighborhood too. We visited for a while. We talked about the houses and trees. Dave is very interested in the surgery. I showed them my tummy with the staples. They both grossed out! They’re just guys. Dave decided that he could never have the surgery because he doesn’t want to have to give up alcohol.
While was walking home, Jim, a neighbor, came out of his house to say hi and see how I was feeling. He is one of the realtors that bought into our new development too.
How great to have such wonderful friends.
I fixed tri tip for Henry for dinner. I had a protein shake for dinner. I had lots of water, soup and only 1 protein vial. How did that happen?
3/2/06 Thursday – weigh 254
Blood Pressure 137/83
Pulse 65
Water & 1 vial of protein
Got up early because my left top staple was hurting/irritated. Could be because I slept on my stomach for a while during the night.
Muscles in upper chest and ribs are still tender.
More water & vitamins – I’m feeling better since taking in some protein and water. I just my pills and it appears that I forgot to take my pills yesterday. Weird! I never forget to take my pills!!
Questions for Susan (Kaiser Nurse):
I’m taking 25 grams of protein for breakfast, 25 for lunch and 25 for dinner. Can you take too much protein? - No
Can we start taking our Mega Vitamin after the first 2 weeks? – Yes
Eating – Soup mixed in Vita Mixer
98% fat free mushroom soup
Fat free chicken broth
Ground up celery Very delicious
Fat free cottage cheese ¼ cup at a time
Sugar free popsicles
66+ ounces of water
Protein Shake – 1 cup of no fat Soy milk
Pure vanilla – for flavor
Strawberry Protein Powder – 25 grams of protein
Ice – Vita Mixer – strawberry shake, - eat it with a baby spoon.
Is there listing of medication for gastric by pass patients? My doc, Dr. Y didn’t know if I could continue with Flexeral – muscle relaxer – ok (can’t take anything anti-inflammatory)
Can I take Entex? OK
Sore throats – sugar free cough drop? OK
Is taking Vitamin C too strong for our new stomachs? OK after 3 months
3/3/06 – Friday – weigh 254
Henry is home today!! Our Friday off. The good news is… drinking water is getting less painful. Ribs hardly hurt at all. By evening, I’m tired and sore. I’m freshest in the morning.
Went to Kaiser this morning for a blood test to check for sugar level. Dr. Y doesn’t think that I’m a diabetic. They sure thought that I was a diabetic at Kaiser South San Francisco
Already have over 33+ ounces in!! Had a yucky Danon Yogurt couldn’t eat it!! Traded it in for ¼ cup of fat free cottage cheese.
129/77 Blood Pressure
Pulse 56
Took a little poop today. What’s with that? I must be pretty cleaned out by now!! Can’t imagine much poop is still in me. God knows that I’m not eating enough to equal one turd!!! I am amazed that I have eaten so little and haven’t lost more weight.
Henry and I went to Mervyn’s. I wanted a new watch. I haven’t worn a watch in years. Thought that I would need one to track eating and drinking when I go back to work.
I felt sorry for Henry and suggested that we stop at Mel’s so that Henry could have a descent dinner. I figured that I could get a small cottage cheese. I ended up getting clam chowder. I figured I could just eat the broth, kind of like mushroom soup and I have eaten that before with no problems.
The clam chowder was great! I didn’t eat any clams or potatoes, just some liquid. I’m sure that there was some dairy in it and fat. Will see how I do with it. It’s been ½ an hour and I feel fine.
Taking my 2nd vial of protein now. I always feel perked up after the protein. I hope that my stomach is touch enough that I don’t dump.
Sara Robinson is on her way over here to have Henry and I sign the papers to refinance our new house. Signed papers on the new mortgage today!
3/4/06 Saturday – weigh 254
Let’s just say the weight isn’t melting off of me.
Had 25 grams of protein
¼ cup of fat free cottage cheese
Spoke to my girlfriend Violet, wondering why I’m not losing more weight.
Dropped off our taxes with Ernie. Henry and I spent the afternoon with Violet and her husband Darrell. We had a great time.
Dinner – had Chinese Kleenex soup
Vial of protein – late afternoon
No protein shake – too cold.
3/5/06 – Sunday weigh 252
Lounged in bed – great
Had 1 protein vial and water
Read paper – showered, at sugar free pudding and went to the movies.
At the movies, the popcorn, which I normally love, smelled terrible! Oh my beloved popcorn!! HAHAHAHAHAHA I drank a vile of protein and water at the movies.
I’m a very cheap date now.
Ran around and did some shopping t K-mart. Bought some beautiful new flowers for the front yard.
Stopped at Susie’s Chinese Restaurant and ordered War Wonton soup. I ate the broth. It was really good. I would have a couple spoons full and then sit and wait. Brought the left over soup home and threw it into the Vita Mixer. It was delicious too! Sa Violet says, I can eat on the left over soup for a week!
I am feeling great, but the staples are very painful, pulling and tugging. I know it’s because I’m a quick healer. Can’t wait to get these staples out!!
3/6/06 – Monday
Weigh 253
I gained a pound?!?!?!?!?!?! What the hell is that about???? I’m drinking enough water to float a boat!!! It must be the salt in the wonton soup. I even took a gushy poop last night. So much for the weight just melting off of my butt!!!
This afternoon, John leaves for San Diego. This afternoon Henry and I leave for South San Francisco to see Dr. Umbach tomorrow. Still can’t wait to get these staples out. I can’t believe how much they are hurting now.
3/7/06 – Tuesday
Weigh 252
Holy Shit!! Taking those staples was very painful!!! I wasn’t prepared for that!! Somehow, I had heard that taking out the staples was no big deal. Wrong!! They were horrible.
Dr. Umbach wanted me to go to one of the first classes that was going on and talk to the new WLS patients.
I showed the class my tummy and answered questions. Gave out my name and phone number for support group in Sacramento. I better get the support group organized! Gitty wasn’t too thrilled with me, but poop on her. (I don’t want to say anything nasty about Gitty, but if you go to Kaiser, South San Francisco, you know what I mean.)
I ate my first scrambled egg. I split it in half. Ate the first half and waited about 20 minutes, then at the rest. It was as good as any Thanks Giving dinner!! HAHAHAHAHAHA
We drove home from San Francisco. Stopped at work for 3 hours. Henry had to put in some time. I visited with everyone and cleaned out my email. I was exhausted!!
We had Chinese food for dinner. I had War Wonton soup. Brought the majority of it home. Threw it in the Vita Mixer – delicious. I’ll eat on it for days!!
3/8/06 - Wednesday – weigh 251
Dang, pretty soon I’ll be out of the 250’s for the rest of my life. Can’t wait.
Breakfast – Vial of protein, sugar free butterscotch pudding
Snack – protein shake – couldn’t eat it all
Lunch – made tuna in food processor. It came out like baby food, all gushy and tasted great!! Got the recipe out of WLS for Dummies. (great book) It took along time to eat ¼ of tuna. Had a small piece of cheese too.
Dinner – Wonton soup
8:00 p.m. snack – Vial of protein and piece of cheese
I use the ¼ measuring cup for eating. I have no sensation of being full. My tummy has no feelings. OK with me! I don’t want to be hungry!
3/9/06 – Thursday – weigh 250
Feeling good! Can’t believe that I’ve lost another pound. It is amazing.
Lots of things that I want and need to get done.
Call Ernie Re: Interest/taxes
Mail EDD disability papers
Kitchen
Disney Land Pictures/Walmart
Had the best nap today. Slept on the couch. It was the most soothing and rejuvenating sleep
2 weeks today since I had the surgery. Feeling great.
Breakfast – sugar free butterscotch pudding
Lunch – ¼ cut tuna and 1 cracker
Dinner ¼ soup and 1 cracker
Don’t eat enough to feed a bug!!
Had a cracker with peanut butter. Haven’t heard back from the peanut butter. Guess my tummy liked it.
My relationship with food has changed. Nothing tastes all that great or seems to be all that appealing.
8
It’s been 2 weeks, so I can start the Mega Vitamin. Tried the Mega Vitamins today. It was like drinking a rock. Chased it down with a little pudding.
3/10/06 – Friday- weigh 248
Blood pressure 115/64
Pulse 67
I’ve lost 2 pounds since yesterday!! Any dieters dream!!
Sunday, Sopranos are back!
I want to try a cracker with peanut butter. I ate one cracker with peanut butter. Actually shared it with the dogs. I read the label. I should be able to eat 1 tablespoon with no problem. We’ll see. It did help push down my Prozac. The last few days, I’ve had trouble with the Prozac trying to swim up stream.
My plan is to work on this house today.
I feel so blessed and loved to have Henry in my life.
3/14/06 – Wednesday weigh 247
Blood pressure 116/68
Pulse 72
I’m so pissed off! I don’t eat enough to keep a but alive and I’m not losing weight.
Breakfast – vial of protein and water and ¼ cup of meat loaf
Lunch – ½ taco – no lettuce
Afternoon snack – ½ taco
Dinner – ¼ of meat loaf
Got my hair done today – too red. Went to Kohls and shopped at the BX and bought some new plants for the yard.
On 3/13/06, Monday, I tore our bedroom apart. Henry said that all of the boxes were my stuff so I thought that I could clean up our bedroom. Turns out that all of the mess is Henry’s!!! He didn’t want to go through any of it.
I’ve been looking for Mom’s wedding ring. I’m still missing my white jewelry box. I’ve searched everything else. Danielle’s birthday is this Friday and I wanted to give her Mom’s wedding ring. I’m so worried that I won’t find it in time.
3/15/06 – Wednesday – slow
I am losing weight so slowly!!! So much for the weight melting off of me! Bull!!
I’m so tired. I have so little energy today. And yet, I can’t sleep worth a darn.
I am missing eating. I ventured out yesterday and ate a taco. I couldn’t eat the whole thing, of course.
I need to call Kaiser regarding setting up group sessions for the WLS patients.
I have tried and tried to get onto the Kaiser website for WLS patients. Don’t ask me why, but I just can’t get in??
3/19/06 – weigh 245
3/20/06 – weigh 245
3/21/06 – weigh 245
3/23/06 – weigh 245
3/24/06 – weigh 245
3/25/06 – weigh 246
3/26/06 – weigh 246
3/27/06 – weigh 246
3/28/06 – Tuesday – weigh 245
I weighed 288 when I started this. I lost 28 pounds on my own before surgery. I weighed 260 day of surgery. I now weigh 245, only 15 pounds since surgery.
I’m not very happy. I had hoped to lose faster. I haven’t lost any weight in a week!
I planted some beautiful flowers in the front yard yesterday. Deep blues, purples and pink. Also some white and yellow daisies.
Katherine, my baby sister, had her baby, Ella on Saturday. I know that Mom and Dad know and are thrilled. Just wish that they were still here.
I dragged in the stationary bike inside today. Exercise, here I come. The weight better start falling off. Wish I had never had this surgery. I could have lost this much weight on my own. The whole thing pisses me off.
I didn’t track anything for about a week.
4/1/06 – weigh 243
4/2/06 – weigh 242
4/3/06 – weigh 241 went back to work today
4/4/06 – weigh 241
4/5/06 – weigh 238
4/6/06 – weigh 240
4/7/06 – weigh 238
4/8/06 – didn’t weigh
4/9/06 – weigh 240
4/10/06 – weigh 239
4/11/06 – didn’t weigh
4/12/06 – weigh 238
4/13/06 – weigh 238
4/14/06 – dr. appt. regarding blood pressure – off medication
4/15/06 – didn’t weigh
4/16/06 – weigh 240
4/17/06 – weigh 239
4/18/06 – weigh 240
4/19/06 – weigh 240
4/20/06 – weigh 241
4/21/06 – went to South SF to post op appointment. Dr. Lee was surprised that I’m such a slow loser. Thanks for the encouragement. We discussed what and how much I eat. I can only eat 3 bites of anything and then my tummy is full! I eat three meals a day and I have snack in between. I get hungry. He told me to only have 3 meals a day, that’s all. How am I supposed to live on 9 bites of food a day? I get hungry now. I hate being hungry!!
4/22/06 – didn’t weigh
4/23/06 – weigh 240
4/24/06 – weigh 239.5
4/25/06 – weigh 239
4/26/06 – weigh 237
out of town
5/1/06 – weigh 236
5/3/06 – weigh 235
5/4/06 – weigh 234.5
5/5/06 – weigh 234.5
5/6/06 – weigh 234
5/7/06 – weigh 233.5
5/8/06 – weigh 233.5
5/9/06 – weigh 233
5/10/06 – weigh 233
5/11/06 – weigh 233
5/15/06 – weigh 232.5
5/16/06 – weigh 232.5
5/17/06 – weigh 231
5/18/06 – weigh 230.5
5/19/06 – weigh 230
5/21/06 – weigh 229
5/24/06 – weigh 229.5
5/25/06 – weigh 229
I took my measurements before surgery and I take my measurements every 23rd of each month. Even when I wasn’t losing weight, my inches were going down. I highly recommend taking your measurements.
