Twinnytwin
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11/13/06 292 Start, 237 current, 140 goal!
11/17/06 292 Start, 233 current, 140 goal!
12/01/06 292 Start, 225 current, 140 goal!
12/31/06 292 Start, 220 current, 140 goal!
01/24/07 292 Start, 217 current, 140 goal!
02/10/2007 292 Start, 212 current, 140 goal!
02/19/2007 292 Start, 209 current, 140 goal!
4/26/06 - Attended an informational seminar, received insurance packet and brochures on procedures.
4/28/06 - Faxed Medical records releases to PCP and mailed in Insurance eligibility packet to Clinic.
5/17/06 - I'm eligible for the surgery! Consult with surgeon set up for 5/25/06. I can't wait.
5/25/06 - Met with Dr. Kuwada and the nutrionisit today and had my pre-labs drawn. Everything going well. Need to set up visit with Psychologist, clinic will set up sleep evaluation visit.
5/26/06 - Got preauthorization from Medcost for the Psychologist evaluation and test! Hooray!!
5/30/06 - Psychologist visit is set! I meet with her on June 15, 2006. Things are moving right along.
6/5/06 - Received a call from Dr. Skobey's office my EGD is set up for June 20, 2006. Hooray things are progressing well!
6/6/06 - Received call from Dr Stern's office, my pulmonary test is set up for June 13, 2006. I'm moving right along.
6/13/06 - Met with Dr Stern today. He doesn't think I have Sleep Apnea, but to be sure he wants me to do a sleep study. I will call the sleep center tomorrow and set up an appt. He says once the sleep study is done, he can clear me for surgery. things are moving along.
6/14/2006 - Called the Sleep center to schedule an appointment, they had a cancellation for today. I signed up. I can bring my own pillow and any prescribed medicines that I need. I have to make arrangements for my daughter for tonight but other than that things are moving right along! I can't believe I have an appointment for tonight! I will update tomorrow. I also have my appointment with the Psych tomorrow at 1 o'clock. I will update that visit as well. Until tomorrow.
6/15/2006 - Well I had my sleep study last night. I thought I was doing fine when the Tech came and woke me up and told me that I was borderline Sleep Apnea and she wanted me to put on the CPAP mask. I thought I was going to hyperventilate. She had to find me a half mask to wear, and then it took me almost 2 hours to fall back to sleep, then I had to wake up and go home and get ready for work. I have to wait for Dr. Stern to call me with my results to see what he wants me to do. I have my Psych appt today at 1:30 I will update my visit there tonight! Only 2 more appts. counting today's Dr visit.
6/15/06 - Well I have just finished my Psych visit and it went so well. Dr. Patterson is so personal and easy to talk with. I took a 165 question test and then filled out the usual paperwork and then spoke to the doctor for about an hour. She checked to see if my test had come back before I left the office. She advised me she would forward approval for surgery to Dr. Kuwada as soon as the test came back and wished me luck on my surgery!!! Yeah!!!!!, I can't believe it once Dr. Kuwada's office gets the info they will forward it to the insurance for approval. My dream is coming true. Only my Endoscopy is left to do, and I have that appointment on the 20th. I will follow up with Dr. Kuwada's office tomorrow to see if they received the info from Dr. Patterson's office.
6/18/05 - Happy Birthday to me!!!! I'm 41 today and life is good, Opened my presents from my Mom and daughter and getting ready to go out to dinner with my brother , Clive and my neices who also just celebrated their birthdays on then 15 and 16th. We are going to Red Lobster and I will have the shrimp! I need my Omega 3's. Happy Father's day to all the dads!!!
6/19/06 - Called Dr. Kuwada's office spoke with Justina, the office has received several reports from Dr Patterson's office and she will check for mine. She has received the report from Dr. Stern's office and she will put the rest of the packet together today and will send to Medcost for approval. She said the packet should go out tomorrow and that I should hear something by Monday. She said to call her back Monday and check.
6/20/06 - I have my Endo scheduled today at 3:30pm I have to be at the hospital by 2:30 and nothing to eat past 9:30am and wouldn't you know it it's lunchtime and I'm hungry, could not have my yogurt snack at 10:30am...It's funny how you get used to a schedule and when you can't eat it throws it all out of whack. I will be okay, it just funny I know I wouldn't be hungry if I didn't have the Dr's appt today. My surgeon's office has submitted my paperwork today so now I will have to wait and see. Justina in the Dr's office is wonderful and says there shouldn't be any problems, she has worked with Medcost before and they are pretty fast! I hope so. I will update tomorrow with the Endoscopy visit, wish me luck!
6/21/2006 - Well I did it, I had my EGD yesterday and guess what, I was worried for nothing, not only don't I remember the procedure, I didn't even have any pain, nausea or sore throat!!! We (mom and daughter) had pizza after leaving the hospital and boy it was so good, and boy was I hungry and thirsty. The last thing I remember is the nurse (Sharon, and she was great) my throat and telling me to hold my breath and then swallow and her spraying once again and saying swallow and then I woke up in the recovery room! I swear! I don't remember anything after the last spray. Dr. Scobey was so nice, I felt as though I was his regular patient his bedside manner is great!
I went today to Carolina sleep center and picked up my CPAP machine that Dr. Stern feels I need. He say's it's a precaution since I am borderline with sleep apnea and that I probably won't need it after the surgery, I hope not!!! Everything is looking good so far, just waiting to hear from the Insurance for approval!!
6/26/2006 On the road, going to NYC for my son's graduation tomorrow...received a call from Justina at the Dr's office, she was mistaken paperwork not submitted. They have not received the paperwork from Dr. Patterson's office..she will call them today and get the paperwork fro Dr Patterson's office and forward to the insurance. She want's me to call her later in the week to follow up. I'm glad i'm in a good mood or I would be mad right now!
6/29/06 - I'm back from NYC and the graduation was wonderful!!! I will post pictures once I get them developed, I am so proud of my son.. I told him now the rest of your life begins...If anyone has ever had to make the drive you know what I mean when I say, its a long drive to take when your the only driver...My daughter and my nephew went with me, but neither can drive...I'm glad to be back..at least I have these 2 additional days off before going back to work....
Called Justina at Dr's office to follow up, since is going to pull my file, It's with Kathy and call me back for status, if she doesn't call me I will call her for sure.
7/05/06 - I haven't posted in several days...Now to update you on whats been happening on Monday July 3 I called Dr. Patterson's office to see if she had sent my report to Dr. Kuwada's office..She was away at a conference and they(Dr Kuwada's office) will have the report in 10 minutes (9:40am). I called Justina at Dr Kuwada's office and they have the report and are going to finish my file and forward to Medcost for approval..she said to call her at the end of the week to see if she has heard anything from the insurance...
I will follow-up with her on Friday.
7/07/06 - Well, its Friday and I called Justina to see if she had heard anything, she is going to pull my file and call me back later!
7/08/06 - Well I haven't heard from Justina (not upset) I just wish she would have told me she would call me back on Monday. Well when I got home from Dinner there was a message on my answering machine from Dr Scobey's office asking me to call on Monday with my pharmacist phone number, they have the results from my Endo. Well if I have to call with my pharmacist number they must have found something. I'm not worried or anything, just glad that I will get it taken care of, whatever it is. Just lurking on the boards replying to some posts. I am starting to get alittle ansy, I wan't to have the surgery over with and get on the loosing side. I know I need to have patience and the time will do me and my body good. I have started on my vitamins and supplements already to get my body jump started. I have my whey protein and some of the things for my liquid diet and things I will need after surgery. On a good note my sisters and I and my play mom went out to dinner (it's been along time since my sister's and I all went out together) to celebrate my twin sister graduating from her substance abuse program. We are all proud of her and are supporting her on her new journey!
Well that's all for now, I will lurk alittle more and then sign off. (Did I mention that I was at work) Later!
7/10/06 - Went to the Dentist today had to have a Root canal done. Wasn't to bad after the injection of Novacaine. My dentist is heaven sent. Didnt know he was finished and had reshaped my tooth back and asked him when he was gonna get started and he let me know he was finished. Tooth next to it looks like it is trying to get an infection, he prescribed Zeflex to take for 10 days and then he will look at it. Took prescription to Walmart to get filled.
Called Justina to find out about progress, got VOICEMAIL. Left message for her to contact me back with any progress.
Called Dr Scobey's office back, Barbara says stomach is inflammed and has bacteria, calling in Prevacid pak for me. It will be prevacid and antibiotics and are to be taken 2x daily..While at Walmart picking up Dentist prescription checked on prescription Barbara had called in. Won't have both parts of prescription until tomorrow after 2pm. Advised I would pick up tomorrow. Forgot to mention I have to take prevacid pak for 14 days and then submit a stool sample on August 1 to make sure the bacteria and inflammation are gone
7/12/06.- Well today was a busy day at work and I was at meetings all day today. In between my meetings I called Medcost and they stated they have not received any information for me, wanted to know if it was mailed or faxed? Did not know that info, Stephanie at Medcost gave me the information and advised to have Drl Kuwada's office fax the info over for a faster response. I called Justina, got her voicemail, left her a message with the fax number and asked her to contact me back. I called on Friday and still have not heard back from her. That's not like her, I hope everything is okay! I also started the Prevpak yesterday and I can already smell the anitbiotics coming thru my urine. I hope I dont get a yeast infection!!! I am beyond being ansy, and right now all I want is an approval and a surgery date. I hate having to wait on others. But I will be patient. Till tomorrow.
7/14/06 - Okay I am mad today, ready to scream...Let me explain...I emailed Justina yesterday to see if she had gotten my voicemails about trying to get an update. She emailed me back that she had received my voicemails and that she has been extremely busy. Of course I understand and emailed her that response. She stated that she had faxed over my paperwork to Medcost at the fax number Medcost had given me and that she has a fax confirmation. I emailed her that I would follow-up with Medcost and I hope I wasn't being a bother to her.
Well I just got off the phone with Medcost and they stated the paperwork was just received from my doctors office yesterday 7/13/2006 and it could take up to 15 to 30 days for review, I thanked the Representative and advised I would follow up in 2 weeks. I can't believe this another 15 to 30 day wait. Well I guess I will have longer to get things in order. I'm just mad about the run around. I'm not gonna let it ruin my weekend though at least now I know they (insurance) have my file for review! Till tomorrow.
7/15/06 - Its Saturday and I'm sitting here at work lurking on some of the forums seeing whats going on and I thought to myself, my surgery will be here before you know it, and what are some of the things I want to do or accomplish after the surgery? After careful thought here are some:
Get on the scale and be under 250!- Done 9/30/2006
Get on the scale and be under 200!
Wear a size 14-16 to start!
Go shopping in the Misses section!
Wear a size 10 regular shoe (currenlty in 11ww)
Bend over and touch my toes! - Done 9/20/2006
Walk up a hill without breathing heavy!- Done 9/27/2006
Wear size 10-12!
Ride my bike for an hour without getting tired!
Exercise more and not get tired so fast!- Done 9/30/2006
Eat like a bird (smaller portions)- Done 9/6/2006
Join the Century club!
Go home to Ny and see my high school sweeheart and watch for his exxpression!
Have my children proud of me!- 9/28/2006
Look into my man's eyes and be proud of myself!- Done 9/28/2006
Have my daughter tell me I'm getting skinny! - 9/29/2006
Wear a bathsuit in public (its been years)
Those are just a few I will add to the list when I think of more! Happy Saturday!
7/24/06 Drum roll please!!!!, I called Medcost this afternoon and guess what, I'm approved....I called Dr. Kuwada's office and spoke with Justina and my surgery is scheduled for August 21. It's all starting to come together now, the first thing I did was call me sister and then my mom and then my other sister and then my son...everybody is screaming with joy for me..I can't wait. I will start my liquid diet on Friday. I have a support meeting tomorrow evening and meet with Jody the nutrionist and Dr. Kuwada on Thursday the 27th.
I just got home from the dentist and had a tooth removed. I took a pain pill and it's starting to kick in and I'm starting to feel alittle woozy, but I had to post my good news. Till tomorrow.
7/25/06 - Getting ready to go to the support meeting tonight with my mom. My mouth is feeling better, still taking my pain pills, the dentist said it might throb because of the stitches he had to put in my mouth. Will update later about the support meeting. Till later.
7/26/06 - Well the Support group meeting last night was great, I got to meet alot of new friends some from the website and others for the first time, To see their before pictures and to see them now boy there is hope. We talked about everything from Vitamins to Fried foods to feelings of inadequatecy with the opposite sex. I can't wait till next months meeting. My mom had a good time as well she asked a question on how to take care of me after surgery, it made her feel good she got one of the girls number to contact for more info. I meet with Jodi the nutrionist and Dr. Kuwada tomorrow. Till then.
7/27/06 - Well my visit with Jodi the nutrionist went fine, she explained my eating habits for after the surgery to my mom and gave her a shopping list and several informational papers, then Cathy came in (Nurse Practitioner) she talked with us for a while and then sent me to have my vitals and weight taken. I gained 2 lbs. I think its water gain because my ankles are swollen. Then Dr. Kuwada came in and went over what to expect before and after the surgery he states Depending on the time of the surgery I would need to report to the hospital at least 2 hours before the procedure. He states the Anesthesiologist would contact me for an appt and I would find out what time the surgery was scheduled for then. He talked with my mom for a minute, asked if i had any questions and the visit was over. Now I wait for the Anesthesiologist to call and the registrar from the hospital to call and pre-register me. Till later.
7/28/06 - 7/30/06 - Hello all, had to try and update the weekend. This was the Charlotte Meet and Greet weekend. All I can say is I had the best weekend ever! I met so many BAF Family members and made new lifelong friends. I can't say that much because what went on in Charlotte stayed in charlotte.
7/31/06 - I called Dr. Russo's (Cardiologist) office to make an appt. so I can get clearance for my surgery. My appt is set up for August 9th at 9:00am. I have to drop off my stool sample tomorrow morning at Dr. Stern's office to make sure the H Pylori is gone. I will check off another box (check). August 21st will be here before you know it.
8/01/06 - Well I picked my daughter up from the airport today, she's home from spending a month with her Dad and grandmother in NY. It was her first time flying and she was alitte nervous about it. Not really if you ask me, she had a window seat. My mom went with me to pick her up. I almost had to strip to get to the gate to sign for her. I'm glad she's home, I really missed her. Thanks for listening.
8/02/06 - Well today is turning out to be a good day, My doctors office called to say they received my FMLA papers and are forwarding to my HR dept ASAP. Justina told me the anesthiologist would be calling me about a time for my surgery on the 21st and CMC Mercy would be calling me about pre-registration. I also handed in my FMLA request to my Manager and AVP over lunch.
Things are moving right along.
8/3/06 - I'm at work, I just popped in to read some post and thought I would post. I start my liquid diet on Monday so Sunday will be my last solid meal for a while. My mom is going on the liquid diet with me for support, now isn't that love. I have a E/M class today for work it should be very interesting. I will update tongiht or tomorrow. Thanks for listening.
8/7/06 - Well today is the first day of my liquid diet, and so far I'm doing okay, I had my 8oz protein drink and will have a 6oz yoplait fat free yogurt for snack and cream soup for lunch and a mango peach applesauce for snack. I'm not sure what I will have for dinner so I will update that later. I had a message from my doctor's office this morning stating my surgery will be a 11:00am and they will want me at the hospital by 9:00am and that the hospital will be calling me for pre-registration. I'm starting with a slight case of the jitters, everything seems to be coming together and I will be on the losing side very soon. Thanks for listening till later!
8/10/06 - Okay well I have to say that I am Happy today, 10 more days till my surgery and yesterday I got Cardiac clearance from Dr. Russo, she is the best Cardiologist ever, She hugged me and said how proud of me she was that I was taking my life into my own hands and getting healthier. She was writing the clearance to fax over to Dr. Kuwada while I was still there. I have an appt today to see the anesthiaologist and get pre-registered @ 11:00 and thats the last appt I have until I have surgery.
On a very serious note, I would like to thank all those I have met here on OH/BAF/NC that have sent prayers and well wishes to me. It has meant more to me than anyone will ever know. I'm gonna go now on that note starting to get warm inside. Till later!
8/10/2006 - Yeah !!!!!!, I just came from the Pre-op visit at the hospital and met with the anesthiologist and had my pre labs drawn. I passed all Labs even my iron was 12.78 and I have never been that high before I guess these vitamins are working. my lipids are fine and my electrolytes also. I talked with the anesthiologist for about 15-20 minutes about the procedure and the IV and pain medication. My anesthiologist is a woman and is very nice.
That was my last dr's visit. I'm done!!!!! now I just have 10 more days till surgery and my liquid diet. I have lost 3.5 lbs since Monday.
8/12/2006 - Well today is Saturday and I'm sitting here at my part time job lurking and posting on the pages and I decided to update my page. I had my protein drink with bananas (orange cream sicle) for breakfast it was 12oz with 56gm of protein (2 scoops) with light soy milk (6 gms). I just finished my fat free yogurt for snack and will have cream of potato soup for lunch. I have 9 days left before my surgery and I am reading more and more to get those little questions answered. Gotta get back to work. Till later!
8/20/06 Well I have had a busy day, I moved today...My apartments were sold and they sent us a letter the 31st of July stating we had until September 1st to move. Knowing I was having surgery I went online and found a 3 bedroom Duplex from heaven. I went and put down a deposit and a month's rent and had my utlilities set up to transfer by the 18th to the new place and cut off on the 21st at the old place. My son and my nephews and my mom's friend and his son helped us move. Everything is in and the bed's are set up and the clothes put away and the food in the fridge. My surgeon called me today to see if I had any last minute questions for him about my surgery tomorrow. We talked about 10 minutes or so. I'm putting the last minute things in my bag and I'm gonna take my shower and lay down. I will post once get home from the hospital. Till later.
08/25/06 - Well hello everyone, I made it to the loser's side. I came home Wednesday evening. The surgery went off without a hitch. My mom, daughter and twin sister accompanied me to the hospital and they let them stay with me until they took me back to surgery, I don't remember much only meeting the CRNA and her telling me she was giving something to relax me, then waking up on my way to my room. When I got there everyone was there including my boss Connie and my oldest son Erik and his girlfriend. I talked with them a while and nodded in and out then they left and my mom spent the night with me. I walked two laps around the floor that night and 6 laps on Tuesday and 2 laps on Wednesday before going home. The hardest thing for me was them removing the JP tube it kinda hurt coming out but once out I was okay. I have been hold down liquids pretty good. I even had a cup of decaf coffee this mornining and boy did it taste good. I have been getting plenty rest and my mom and daughter have been unpacking boxes for the last two days. My daughter started back to school today It's her first day in 7th grade and boy did she look pretty leaving out this morning. I'm so lucky to have her and my mom and twin. I don't know what I would have done without them. A special thanks to my angel Lexis and Shonda (So inspired) and Dee for calling and checking on me, It meant alot. I'm getting ready to take my pain medicine so then pain never sets in. Till later.
08/26/06 - Well today was a good day, I got in 20 oz of water and 20 oz of protein in today. I walked for about 45 minutes today and only took my pain medicine 2x today. I'm still unpacking boxes, I did three today. Mainly books on the shelf but every little bit helps. The house is starting to take shape. I'm getting ready to lay down but wanted to post. Till later.
08/28/06 - Good morning, I had a very good weekend. I am getting in at least 50 oz of liquid now, 20 oz protein and 30oz water and or Crystal light. Not feeling hungry but I keep my plastic bottle close so I don't forget to drink. I cooked dinner for my mom, daughter, twin sister and her friend yesterday. Nothing extravagant but they enjoyed it and I enjoyed cooking for them. I made Spaghetti with Italian sausage covered in 3 cheese with Italian bread and butter. I did not miss eating with them, I guess that was my big test to myself. Everyone sat around and ate and I had my protein to drink. Wow, I guess I just had my first WOW moment. Being able to cook that delicious dinner and not be hungry to eat it. I take about 2-3 sips of my protein and I'm full for about 20-30 minutes. I can't explain it but I like feeling full. I hope I don't sound strange, and I really can't explain the feeling but I love it. I walked yesterday for about 30 minutes yesterday in Walmart with my daughter. I had to take her to urgent care, she has had an earache for the last couple days and I didn't think it was just water in the ear. Turns out she had an outer ear infection. She is on medication now and seems to be doing better in just 24 hours. I am 1 week out today (yeah) and feeling better each day and getting stronger each day. I take my daily naps and walks and treat myself to a sf pop everyday. I'm going to get my nails done today, they really need it. Till later.
9/02/06 - Well it has been several days since I have posted I have been getting my water and protein in. I started on Cream soups on Tuesday and had my first bowel movement on Wednesday, Horray! I hadn't had one since about 3 days before surgery. I am getting around better. My steri-strips have fallen off all except for the one right under my belly button. I will let if fall off by itself. I only have 2 boxes left to unpack one for my bedroom and one with livingroom pictures and shelves. The house looks so good. My daughter's bus situation was resolved on Wednesday so she is catching the bus in the morning and in the afternoon. My twin came over on Thursday and helped with unpacking boxes. I don't know what I would have done without her! My boyfriend just looks at me and smiles. He wants me to take it easy and I am he is so overprotective sometimes. But I love it!!
I started back at my part time job today! I am sitting here in the highback chair watching TV waiting for calls to come in. I know I will be tired by the time I get off today. (12hr shift) but it will be an easy day! I go to the doctor on Tuesday for my 2 week check up. I will post then. Till then.
9-6-06 - Well yesterday was my 2 week post-op and everthing went well. I am at 267 and can't belive I have lost 31lbs between my pre-op exam weight gain in the hospital and now. Dr Kuwada says he is proud of me and that I can go back to work in 2 weeks. I meet with Cathy the NP in 4 weeks to chart my progress. He says keep doing what I;m doing since I am getting in about 63+ grams of protein a day. He states he wished all his patients did this well. Boy that made me feel good. Well today I have an appt to go see my Varicose vein doctor. I tell you by then end of the year it is going to be a brand new me. I will post again, till later.
9-08-06 - Today's Friday and hello weekend, I have had a good week, recouperating well and I had 2 doctor's appointments this week, 1 for my 2 week post op and another with my vein doctor. Dr. Burgess is going to submit the paperwork so I can have the Closure procedure done on my legs. I have 85% reflux in both my legs and the pain and scarring on my legs is horrible. With the procedure they will go in lap. and close off the varicosities and the blood will flow to good vein, thus taking away the reflux and the big purple marks on my legs. He is going to do the right leg first and then the left leg, he says prefably (sp) 2 weeks apart. Varicose veins run in my family. My grandma, mom and sisters have it, I think my twin and I have it the worst though. By the end of the year, it really will be a whole new ALICIA and I'm already loving it. I'm adding in more soft foods. This week I had refried beans with lowfat cheese sprinkled on top and melba toast with fat free cream cheese. I chewed very well and got full very fast. I am getting used to eating smaller bird size portions. I'm still getting in my protein 62 grams a day so far not counting the little protein I am getting in from what little food I eat. Dr Kuwada says I'm doing well and I agree. My mom and daughter and I go for walks in the evening with our dog Babe, we are all getting exercise, I'm so glad to have such a supportive family, I love them all very much! I'm getting ready to mix up my protein shake so till later!
9-10-06 - Well today is Sunday and I'm at my part time job surfing the OH website. I weighed today and I'm down to 260 lbs. I can't believe it. My mom and daughter are saying that they can see the lose in my face and chest and tummy. My stomach has gone down and I'm glad. My jogging pants are big on me the waist is loose and the legs are starting to sag. OMG I love it. My incisions are healing nicely. They still itch, but the dr. says thats good it means they are healing. They are still alittle hard under the skin but he says that's normal too. I'm watching public tv and Gary Mullins is telling everyone what I have found out to be true within the last year, about fruits, vegetables, fish, grains along with vitamins and minerals will help you to heal your body. I am writing down the new things he is saying to go with what I already know. I will post later in the week. Till later!
9-16-06 I know it's been several days since I posted. I'm doing fine getting adjusted to my new self, trying to get used to the compliments from everyone that see's me. I went to visit my firends at work yesterday and everyone was oohing and aahing saying girl, you don't look like you had surgery 3 weeks ago. I loved seeing everyone and they made me feel good. Me mom and Jelecia (daughter) went out to dinner. I had a vegetable plate, well thats what they call it. I had mac and cheese (2 bites) Pintos (3 bites) and mashed potatoes (3 bites ) and I was full and brought the rest home for my dog, Babe. I'm not hungry today but I know I have to eat something. I have had 2 protein drinks today, 1 for breakfast and 1 for lunch..I made salmon burgers (patties) the other night and I think I will heat one up for dinner with alittle low fat shredded cheese. I decided to take the entire 6 weeks so I won't go back to work until October 2. I'm loving life right now and I'm down to 256 as of Thursday...that down 42lbs total...Till later!
9/23/06 Well its been about a week since I last updated. I went to my bosses birthday luncheon. We went to Kabutos. My boss and I split the chicken and veggies. Needless to say I took about 4 -5 bites and was full. I brought the rest home and my sister loved it. I also went for my evaluation at the YMCA. I got weighed and I'm down to 254 thats 44lbs gone. I have also started walking everyday for 30 minutes. My daughter loves that this is something we can do together. I am slowly adding foods back into my diet especially beans and some meat. I had some vanilla ice cream to see if I could tolerate it. I can! hooray, I love ice cream and didn't want to be lactose intolerant. I know I can still become intolerant but for right now that's calcium for me. I am feeling so good right now, I'm starting to see the weight loss for myself and it looks good. I'm gonna try and increase my walking next week to 45 mins. I will update later!
9/28/2006 - It been a couple days since I updated. I went to my support meeting on Tuesday and it was great there were pre and post -ops there. Cathy our NP in charge of the meeting asked it there was anyone there who would like to see a 1 day post-op upstairs in the hospital. You know I immediatley raised my hand and after the meeting, my daughter and I went to see Sherry. We had a good visit she asked all kinds of questions and said she couldn't believe I was 5 weeks out. Not even my nurses who helped me when I was in the hospital recognized me. Well that made me feel real good. I go back to work on Monday and I go to see my PCP on friday. I am having problems sleeping through the night and need something. I am walking everyday and I feel so good after I walk. When I weighed Sunday I was down to 252. I hope once I started at the YMCA along with the walking it helps loose inches. Till later!
9/30/2006 - I went to see my PCP yesterday about me not being able to sleep all the way thru the night. She couldn't believe how good I looked she hadn't seen me since april when I started my journey. She gave me Ambien/CR and told me to take it for 15 days to try and get my REM sleep back into sync. I weighed this morning and I have broke the 250 mark!!!, I'm 249...I am so happy that's 48lbs in 5 weeks. I feel good, trying different foods to see if they stay down and also trying to get in my protien and liguids. I start back to work on Monday, I think I'm ready. I just want my sleep to get back to normal. I'm going to my sister's later for her to see me. I haven't seen her since before the surgery. I miss my neices too. I will update on Monday after my first day back to work. Till later.
10/5/06 - Well I have been back at work for 4 days, I was tired Monday and Tuesday when I got home, but Yesterday was better. My daughter and I did our daily walk and I felt much better. I am more mentally tired that physically. for 6 weeks I didn't have to think about anything but remebering to drink and now I have everything else I have to think about. I'm taking it easy though. I go for my 6 week check up Friday. I also heard from my vein doctor and I will be having the surgery on my legs in December. I will be a whole new Alicia in 2007, I can't wait. Till later.
10/07/06 - Well yesterday I had my 6 week checkup and everything went fine!, My NP was so impressed with how well I was doing and how well I looked. She was happy to see that I was under 250, well so was I. She said if I keep it up I will probably be under 200 by January, I hope so! She reviewed my chart and says my Vitamin D was low in May and she wants to boost it since I have had surgery so she wrote me a prescription for mega strength Vitamin D. I take one pill a week for 4 week and she will run labs when I come back in November since I will be 3 months out then. My daughter and I continue to walk every evening and I feel so much better afterwards. I continue to get compliments everyday at work, and I love it! I haven't seen my middle son since he went to school right before surgery, I can't wait to see him in January on winter break, boy will he be shocked to see me. I'm still introducing more foods into my diet. I can eat salad!!! I had a salad Thursday night (no iceburg lettuce) with Paul Newmans Blue cheese dressing. Even though it was only a handful of salad, it tasted so good. I love salad and thought I wouldn't be able to eat it afterwards, boy I am glad I was wrong. Well I'm at work right now so I'm gonna go, till later.
10/21/06 Well it's been about 2 weeks since I last posted, since then the Charlotte support group of BAF has met and our name is Thru Thick and Thin. We will meet monthly at sites to be dteremined by the group. We met the 14th at Cheesecake factory and had a blast. I am getting used to work. I have been back 3 weeks and adjusting niceley. I am at work right now just wanted to pop in and update till later!
10/25/06 Its been a couple of days since I last posted and lets see, I worked a Flu clinic at work, got my first cold since surgery, not too bad, though I have started taking the Zinc and Vitamin C melts and taking Tylenol chest congestion and it has been helping. I missed the Support group meeting yesterday at Mercy, I thought it was going to be the last Tuesday of the month, but since that would be Halloween they moved it up one week and I didn't get the email until today. I have to go shopping and pick up at least 3 pair of pants. All of my clothes are swimming on me and look really baggy. I was going to try not to buy anything until the Holidays but I have gone from a 26 to a 22 in pants and 24 to a 20 in tops. My tshirits are now a XL, from a 2X. Even my shoes are big now I am buying regular width shoes not WW. I am so happy right now loving the new me that's emerging. I am at work right now so I have to be brief! Till later!
10/30/06 - Well today is Monday and I had a good weekend. My daughter and I went shopping for her Halloween outfit. We found it at Party city, she is going to be a sexy she-devil. I also brought 3 pair of pants since all of my other pants are falling off me. I also brought to lightweight jackers size 1x. I'm loving it. I weighed this morning and I down to 240 lbs. Thats 52 pounds gone. Till later.
11/4/06 - Well it has been several days since I have posted and I have good news to tell. I met a really nice guy on Halloween, of all days can you believe it. My sister and her fiance introduced my to his best friend. Steve is a really nice guy, he is spiritual, a chef, plays the bass and has been saved. We have been talking on the phone all week and he is gonna come over tonight after I get off work so we can get to know one another. I also got fed up with my boss' and posted for a transfer to another dept. And what do you know I was called the next day by HR saying they had forwarded my transfer to the hiring manager and the Manager called me the next day to set up an interview. I meet with her on Monday, please say a prayer for me. It seems like it would be a perfect fit for me. I'm at work today surfing and wanted to update my journey since life seems to be going well for me. I really would like to get to know Steve better. Beginning in a new relationship and getting to know someone knew is exciting for me. I will keep you guys posted, Till later!!!
11/09/06 - It has been several days since my last post. I went on an interview for a new position at work. the interview went well and I feel as though the position is made for me. I have claimed it. On the personal side. My new friend Steve and I have been talking on the phone and spending all of our free time together. He took me to the new restuarant he will be the new chef at. He also cooked dinner for my daughter and I on Monday evening. We had grilled salmon with a red pepper coolie sauce, rice pilaf and grilled peppers and onions. OMG it was delish! and then he washed the dishes and told my daughter and I to relax. I am impressed. He picked me up from work yesterday, because he wanted to spend some time with me. I cooked dinner for him and my daughter. Nothing fancy just burgers and fries. He wants me to meet his daughter Friday. I can't wait. He says he hopes our daughters get along. My daughter is 12 and his daughter is 8. Jelecia (my daughter) can't wait to meet her. We are all going to go skating. I will watch, I haven't roller skated in over 15 years. I like Steve and he really seems to like me to. Till later!!
11/13/06 - I have just had the most wonderful weekend ever. I went out with my new beau and my sister and her fiance on Friday to the movies. We have a good time together. Saturday I had to take my daughter to her Dress rehearsal for her concert today in Winston-Salem. Then Steve took me to the opening of a new restaurant where he will be the Chef. It was a Fight party. I had a GOOD time, it is a very upbeat, upscale restaurant and everyone there was so nice. They had live Jazz singers as well and of course the Food was banging, I think it was the CHEF! Sunday we were together too, we just chilled and reflected on the weekend we had just had. I think he may be a keeper. On another note, I have lost another 3 lbs. which takes me to 237. I can see it in my body and in my clothes. I also have more good news, I was offered the position I interviewed on Monday with. Of course I accepted the position and will start my new position Decemeber 11. My life is taking a turn for the better and I'm loving it. Till later!!
12/01/06 It has been several weeks since I last updated. I have lost another 12 lbs. taking me to 225! Yeah!!!. I have been walking and eating more protein. I will start my new position in another week. Everyone at work has been taking me to lunch to say goodbye, I have even received gifts. It feels good to know that they appreciate all the hard work you do for them. I have gone down another size, I am in a 20 now in pants and a 16-18 top. I look in the mirror and love the reflection that is coming back to greet me. My love life has never been better. Steven and I are getting closer and learning each other. Thanksgiving was wonderful, he met the whole family and we all had a very good time together. My twin sister is getting married today, and I am so happy for her. My daughter will take her SAT tomorrow morning for the DUKE TIP program and her birthday is Sunday the 3rd. She will be 13, a teenager. Am I ready for that? Life is good! Till later.
12/31/06 Well I have survived 2 holidays, Christmas was wonderful. My love life is never better. I love the new me, I almost don't recognize myself in the mirror, but I love all the attention I am getting. I almost like my boo getting jealous at the guys looking at me. My family was all together except for my middle son was couldn't get time off from his job. He will come home in February with his girlfriend. The new job is going well, new acquaintances at work also. Gonna toast the New years with my daughter and my boo. Can't wait to see what 2007 has in store for me. Till later! Happy New Years!!!
1/24/07 Well its been several weeks since I have updated. Alot has happened the scale has only moved 3 lbs. I have to up my protein intake. I'm feeling good and looking good to. I went to the support group at Mercy last night and it was a good meeting saw old faces and several new ones. The new job is going well, love my doc's and RN's. The love life is great and my children are all doing well. Life is good. Till later!
02/12/2007 Well it has been several weeks since I have posted, I fell and cracked my knee cap. I'm better now, after they drained off 2 vials of inflammation off of it and inserted cortizone in it so it could heal without causing me too much pain. The new position is going great and the love life and the children are all doing well. Life is good. till later!
02/19/07 Well its only been a week since I posted, good news I received an Eternity ring ion Valentines day, it is beautiful. It is white gold swirled like a bow with diamond chips on the swirl and ends. I cried. I will post a picture once I take one. I'm down to 209 now from 292 and loving it. I just brought 4 shirts size 16 and pants size 18. I cant believe I've gone from a 26 to a 18 almost 16. Kids and family are still supporting the new me and love commenting on how good I look and i'm loving it. The new job is still going well and my love life has never been better. Till later - hugs and kisses from my family to yours.
