Web Notes

Hi Bubba,

Which Real Estate Company are you leaving?......Christie
Bubba <bubbar@...

Hello,

I am sending this message to inform you that I have elected to move to another real estate group. I am now a member of the RED STICK Realty team being lead by Mrs.Ginger Murray (Broker). I will continue to offer my same friendly, professional service that you have come to know and trust.

I understand that your home purchase is a major investment. I will use my training, experience, and all other resources available to me to assist you in your home purchase. This service includes assisting you in the pre approval process, all the inspections, all the way through the closing and beyond. If I/we, at Red Stick Realty, can be of any assistance please do not hesitate to call. I/we look forward to working with you.

Thank you in for choosing me as your REALTOR®..

Sincerely,

Allen "Bubba" Randall

[INLINE]

[LINK]

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Dear Candice,

I don't write often as some of the others, but read often and GOOD LORD does it ever help me. (Thanks to all of you out there!).

The day I decided to have my surgery my mother will still living but not in very good health. My ex-husband was and still is a crack head, liar and cheater (and lets not forget thief). My mother asked me to make sure that is what I wanted to do. (I knew it was). Most of my friends and family didn't want me to do it. Here is the stupid part... I let them talk me out of it... and the other part was I knew it would put to much strain on my mother worrying about me so I put it off for 2 years. My mother passed 09/29/2003, I put my ex-husband out 09/2003. I had my gastric-bypass 08/02/2005, my only regret was that I let people talk me out of it 2 years before.

A person I know very well screamed at me the day before surgery YOU ARE GOING TO DIE ON THE TABLE DURING SURGERY!!!!!! I told her I wasn't.The day of my surgery I woke up late (can we call this a sign??? No just so tired from being over weight, high blood sugar 350 to almost 400 (stroke level), high blood pressure, kidneys starting to fail, no energy at all) I jumped out of bed and woke every one up and got in the car and made a mad dash to the hospital, ran in the emergency room and was crying cause I thought I was late. Go figure the COWBOY SURGEON was running late too...lol...

I weighed in at 272lbs a couple of months before surgery the day I had surgery I was 252 today I have been holding steady at 192 but have been losing inches. 80 lbs. gone. Take a trip to the grocery store and try to hold 16 bags of sugar at 5lbs. apiece. Dang that is hard to do ... but that is how much I lost.

Candice I hope you have not taken this any kind of way but good because you will get better, you will feel better, you will look better, you will dance better, you will make love better, you will eat better, and you will tell yourself over and over again. I AM SO GLAD I DID THIS FOR MYSELF!!! Anyone that doesn't care for it OH WELL .... tough cookies.

Ronda's things she can do now:

Wear very nice clothes (pants that don't fit in the waist and hang in the crotch and have bozo the clown legs are gone forever [ I have small legs]).

Keep up with my 4 year old (man she runs fast).

Walk the mall without needing to sit on every bench I pass.

Look in the mirror now and say Dang girl you can see that thing now with out needing 2 hands to lift my belly..lol... (Don't mean to offend anyone but that is one of my things).

Ronda can now shop and buy 18 or 16 size clothes in a regular store rather than order them off the Internet from specialty stores. YYYYIIIIPPPPPHHHHHEEEE!!!!!

I don't have to have the seat all the way back to drive and the steering wheel rub my belly.

These my Dear are just a few new great things for me..........You will have a whole new world out there to make yours.... PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE give it a chance. You will not regret it very soon.

If you need to call anyone of us that has given you a phone number .... don't hesitate to use them!!!! We are here for you and to help you. We are family!!!!

Love and GOD Bless you,

Ronda Gaudet

225-385-5177 cell

225-545-3094 home

225-344-8272 work

Hello,

I am sending this message to inform you that I have elected to move to another real estate group. I am now a member of the RED STICK Realty team being lead by Mrs.Ginger Murray (Broker). I will continue to offer my same friendly, professional service that you have come to know and trust.

I understand that your home purchase is a major investment. I will use my training, experience, and all other resources available to me to assist you in your home purchase. This service includes assisting you in the pre approval process, all the inspections, all the way through the closing and beyond. If I/we, at Red Stick Realty, can be of any assistance please do not hesitate to call. I/we look forward to working with you.

Thank you in for choosing me as your REALTOR®..

Sincerely,

Allen "Bubba" Randall

[INLINE]

[LINK]

Here is the link to Dr. Hargroders site.

Click or copy and paste in your web browser

Bubba

Dear Ladies, I am just checking to see if my computer is working again
because I haven't seen any posting of messages on here from anybody
for a long time. How is everybody? How are you doing Doris, Parvin,
Audrey and everyone else? It is so quiet on here. I hope and pray
everyone is doing well and I hope my computer is working. Take care,
God Bless, Love, Sharon

Hi Terr,

I am so glad that post helped you. My mission here is to help as many as I can and to lift them up and let them know I care.

Feel free to forward any of my post if you think it will help someone else.

Bubba

Mary,
That's so wonderful. The more you learn, the better off you are.
Just look at what you have learned here. Even if it doesn't have to
do with your "job" it can still be fun. I have taken some courses
just because I wanted to know more about a topic. I haven't been for
years, but plan to start getting back to learning. I don't have the
money but will try things one topic at a time. I'll just skip going
to the movies to make up the difference.
Good Luck, Mary!!
Lizanne

HAPPY (new) Birthday!

I see by your home phone number you live near me. I live in Galvez off Hwy 42.

Bubba

Hi All,
Just wanted to check in and say hi to all. Congratulations to
everyone with surgery dates and have just completed their surgery.
Good Luck to all that are still waiting and going through the
process. It is well worth it. I don't regret it and it is hard work
despite what others may think.
I am doing pretty good. Lost 34 lbs since my surgery on 11/26 which
I am pleased about. I have not become obsessed with the scale which
is good and I weigh myself once or twice a week. I am just trying
to focus on increasing my fluids. My protein levels are good. I
have had constipation issues in the last 2 wks. I tried a little
bit of every thing - colace, magnesium, miralax and finally had to
go with a ducolax suppository which finally worked. Sharon is this
still your favorite subject. LOL!! I think it was because my water
intake wasn't sufficient and also because I have been taking iron
pills again.
Despite that all is well. I am working too much and too long hours
so I haven't been posting like I would like to. I find I cannot
keep up with all the posts since the group is so very, very active.
I will try to keep in touch more often.
Robin in NJ
LAP RNY 11/26/07
272/238/150
SW/CW/GW

Well Put Linda. Oh By The Way HAPPY (NEW) BIRTHDAY!

Candice I hope all of this is helping you. There are a lot of good people here with good advice and we all want to help. I don't know if you've been to the support group meetings, but you should try to make them. They are very helpful. Some people live too far to travel to them and others do fine without going to them ( they have lots of support here and at home) but I feel it would help you so much. First thing is Attitude. Once you conquer all the negative feelings and think positive it seems easier. Candice you can do this. And I say this in the friendliest way "We love you and we are here for you.

Bubba

Awww,
I'm sorry you are having such a rough time right now, Candice.
I just had the surgery about 3 1/2 weeks ago myself. During the liquid
phase, I got depressed; and I also wondered if this was the right thing
to have done. But I know that even tho I will miss some foods,
especially early on.. I will be healthier and probably live a longer,
more active life in the end. I went out to eat a few days ago. Ordered
some baked fish, and just ate a tiny bit of it.. But I took the rest
home. It was soo good. But just a little satisfies me, and I am so
happy for that. I came to Baton Rouge all the way from TN to have the
surgery. Everyone was soo great there. I wish that I lived closer so I
could go to some of these coffee get-togethers and things like that. If
you live in the area, I would encourage you to take advantage of some
of the support group meetings and gatherings. It can only help.
I wish you the best of luck, and I feel like the time will go by
quickly, and before you know it you WILL feel better and find your new
normal. Try not to dwell on it. Think positive. It will get better!
Take care, Candice.
Hugssss,
Amy Williams
RNY 9-17-06

I don't post a lot but I am over two years out.. It will get better.. it will.

This is the hard part that you on in now. You should have been prepared for how hard it was going to be but you can never know or understand until you actually go through it.

Just be sure to concentrate on getting better and eating the right foods.

This group has lots of help. Don't stop writing.

I am the loner type and don't write much but I read and this group is great.

IT WILL GET BETTER...

Dr Hargroder 2004 Jeannine Simpson

268/139/150

( yes now I have to be careful because I eat too much)

I am 20 years old and I had GB 31 days ago. I am now regreting the
surgery, a lot. I have only told about 10 people that i had GB, so it
is hard to explain it to my friends. I also, get upset when I can't go
out to eat and drink with my friends.It makes me lie to them and I feel
emotional unstable right now. I thought that GB would make me feel more
normal because i would lose weight, but it has actually done the
opposite to me. I still can't take much food, and i am upset that i
can't eat many things I Love....I feel that this is the biggest mistake
i have ever made. I am more sick now then ever before. Why do I regret
something i thought would make me a "normal" 20 year old. Will this
ever get better??
Candice

I am looking forward to it!

Linda
Georgia <georgiad40@...

Hey all!

Just a reminder that we're meeting for coffee (or whatever!), Sunday (TOMORROW) at 3pm at CC's on Siegen Lane.

I hope we have a good turnout!

See you there,
GA
Georgia Kiley DiBenedetto [INLINE]

Hey all!

Just a reminder that we're meeting for coffee (or whatever!), Sunday (TOMORROW) at 3pm at CC's on Siegen Lane.

I hope we have a good turnout!

See you there,

GA

Georgia Kiley DiBenedetto [INLINE]

I was just wondering if anyone that had gastric bypass surgery can tolerate diet coke and mocassippis, because i am really missing those two things

Thanks

Candice
Georgia <georgiad40@...

Hi there,

Just wanted to post a reminder about our coffee gathering this Sunday, Sept. 10. CC's on Siegen at 3pm. We had a good time last month and decided to try to set one up each month, ALL are welcome to join us!!!!!!!!!!!

GA
Georgia Kiley DiBenedetto [INLINE]

Hi there,

Just wanted to post a reminder about our coffee gathering this Sunday, Sept. 10. CC's on Siegen at 3pm. We had a good time last month and decided to try to set one up each month, ALL are welcome to join us!!!!!!!!!!!

GA

Georgia Kiley DiBenedetto [INLINE]

I know you will do it. Just hang in there it can be rough in the beginning but it is worth it.

Hugs back to you

Bubba

Bubba, Thank you so much, for your words of encouragement and
inspiration. I know that I will find what works for me. I think it's
just hard in the beginning, especially since I don't know anyone here
who has had the surgery. I know this is a positive way for my life.
Thanks for your input.
Take care! hugs,
Amy

At one time I was a fairly active member of this group...then I hit a really
rough patch--over twenty brain metastases and further growth of my bone
tumors--every vertebrae, every rib, both arms, shoulders, hips, and legs, the
sternum, skull, and sacrum. And most of these tumors I have had for six years.
But with localized radiation, "intravenous" radiation, lots of pain
medication, hereptin and testosterone; I was actually doing rather well...until
the
brain tumors.
There were too many to trat with gammaknife or cyberknife...so i had twenty
shots of whole brain radiation...and massive doses of steroids (the steroids
were much worse than the radiation). I have completely lost my sense of
taste--and some short term memory and I am slower with my speech and some motor
skills...but, the radiation did destroy the tumors. Unfortunately the bone
tumors which had been fairly stable--are growing and spreading.
Last week. I started Xeloda and Avastin...with some trepidation (the
possible side effects are scarry). I know this isn't a new treatment...has
anyone
been on this protocol??? How effective was it???? What should I expect?????
I have been hoping the "advanced" herceptin--tykerb--would be approved by
the FDA; but I checked the FDA site and it isnt even on the agenda. Has anyone
been part of the tykerb clinical trial??? This drug sounds "wonderful"--and
it does break through the "blood-brain" barrier.
Anyway, I am just looking for first hand info...this is an amazing group of
women. Quite frankly, I am so proud of anyone just living with this disease
day in and day out. We all are hoping for the day that cancer can be
contolled or even better, cured!!!! I just don't want to be the "last woman to
die
of breast cancer".
God bless us all!!! To life!!!
Marian Millican

Hi Amy and everyone,

After reading your post I wondered what could I say to help you through this, because in the end you WILL say "This is the best thing I have ever done for myself". So let me offer the thought process I use through my ordeal. It may not work for everyone but it worked for me.

After GBP I may .... But

I may mourn for food in the beginning... But my family will not mourn because I left them to early.

I may be uncomfortable at first .... But I am miserably uncomfortable at this size

I may be weak for a few weeks.... but I have no energy now.

This stuff may taste bad.... But so did some medicine but they did make me fill better. (sometimes not over night but eventually)

I can't eat sweets anymore..... but that contributed to my current condition and I want to change that.

Why did I do this to myself?...... Because (if not for myself) I am a husband and a dad and I owe it to them to be here for them as long as I possibly can. If this ordeal adds only two years to my life that is two more years of memories for my wife and kids and for me two more years to tell them how much they mean to me. And who knows but that the extra time I added to my life is what it took for me to become a grandfather. And my children would not have to say " I wish daddy was here to see this".

I am sure we all do this for different reasons but the one reason we all have in common is we want to live longer, healthier, and happier

I believe that attitude is everything. Keep a positive attitude and KNOW that in the end it will all be worth it.

Keep in mind the reason you chose to have the GBP. If it helps carry a picture of family and when you feel negative about your decision take it out and look at them. This will remind you that after this brief time of discomfort you will be with them longer and they will have you around longer.

Ok I think I have gone on long enough. I could probably write a book if I keep thing about positive changes that have come into my life since GBP surgery.

I hope this helps you and others.

Remember we are here for you.

Bubba

If it would help print this out and refer to it often.

Amy,

Back when I had the surgery, the diet phases were a little different, but I think we all have had that moment when we think, "what in the heck have I done?!?" But it WILL get better. I don't know what type of foods you are supposed to have at this point, but if you can, try a blending up a can of chicken noodle soup until it is smooth. I did that, and found that it was a little more satisfying. Also, you can scramble an egg into the boiling soup, and make it egg drop soup - more protein!

Good luck,

Linda
Amy <kickbackfan@...

Tomorrow I will try the boiled egg white. Yah Rah. I am not really
having much of an appetite, per se. But I really miss being able to
just get something to snack on. I am sick of jello, but that is the
only way I've been able to tolerate the protein stuff I got. (New
Whey in vials) Otherwise it is too sicky-sweet to drink. I haven't
been drinking enough liquids, and it seems such a chore to try and
get it all down. Yesterday I was so down and out. Worrying about what
I had done (by having the surgery); and also about how I will be able
to eat what I need to - and get in all the drinks and stuff - when I
go back to work soon. I lost blood internally after surgery, so I am
still low on blood, which makes me more weak. I tire a lot quicker
than I did before surgery, and I'm trying to walk to build back up. I
know some of you are bound to have felt some of these feelings I have
been dealing with. If anyone can help, please email me at

Tomorrow I will try the boiled egg white. Yah Rah. I am not really
having much of an appetite, per se. But I really miss being able to
just get something to snack on. I am sick of jello, but that is the
only way I've been able to tolerate the protein stuff I got. (New
Whey in vials) Otherwise it is too sicky-sweet to drink. I haven't
been drinking enough liquids, and it seems such a chore to try and
get it all down. Yesterday I was so down and out. Worrying about what
I had done (by having the surgery); and also about how I will be able
to eat what I need to - and get in all the drinks and stuff - when I
go back to work soon. I lost blood internally after surgery, so I am
still low on blood, which makes me more weak. I tire a lot quicker
than I did before surgery, and I'm trying to walk to build back up. I
know some of you are bound to have felt some of these feelings I have
been dealing with. If anyone can help, please email me at
kickbackfan@....
I'm also interested in some examples of an average day's meal plan in
phases: two, three and four.
Thanks.. Hope everyone is doing well.
Hugs,
Amy ;)
RNY 8/17/06

I heard from Parvins family. She is in ICU. Sorry that is all the
information I have at this time.
Jeana

Sounds great, I love hot wings...Naomi
Rebekah <rebekahmason@...
Wanted to pass on a recipe that I really like. I have changed it some
to make it low fat. So may feel it has to much fat if you do than
don't make it! I like really spicy foods so this seems to give me
some protein and goes down easy.
2 large cans of chunked chicken breast chopped
2 8oz low fat cream cheese bars
3/4 cup franks red hot sauce
8 oz low fat ranch dressing
2 cups low fat shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
I added about a half bunch or green onions cause I thought it would be
good and I needed to use them up. You just throw all this in a crock
pot and let it heat up and melt. you can use celery to dip out or
baked tortilla chips. I just get a cup and eat it. I went to a site
and calculated what a serving has approximately and it has about 16
grams of protein for 4 ounces. That is a rough estimate.
TTYL
Rebekah

Well, today 8/26 marks three years since I had my surgery. What a journey it has been. My quality of life has changed so much. I do more now than I would have ever thought about doing 3 years ago. I want to say thanks to Dr. Hargroder, Cindy, Kristy, and Penny for all they have done. Also to say thanks to the group for your support, I have made some good friends through this Group.

I would also like to thank the academy..........oops LOL

I would like to say to the newbies, hang in there you too will reach your goal. Continue to seek advise and encouragement through this group,there is a lot of experiences here.

Bubba

Hospital stay $$$$

Gastric bypass Surgery $35,000

Getting my life back PRICELESS

8/26/2003 352 lbs.

8/26/2006 210 lbs.

I appreciate you Ally and Lizanne :o)
I'm sure I have said things that people have taken the wrong way. Never my
intention, but they don't know me, so they don't know my intent. That said,
if I have hurt anyone's feelings, please accept my apology.
Edie
11/15/07
lap rny
302/292/254/150's
hw/sw/cw/goal

Amy I had an internal bleed that put me back in the hospital after my
surgery. I had a DVT blood clot after the surgery and they treated
it with a heavy dose of blood thinners. Worked great for the blood
clot. Didn't work so great for my poouch and the new intestianl
connections. I started bleeding internally from one of the
connections. I had the worst 'bloody' gas for a couple weeks and
spent a lot of time with the porcelain bleeding from the rear.
Unlike you my hematocrit(sp.) levels stabalized right before they
were going to give me blood.
I know exactly how weak you are feeling too. It took me a month to
get over the weakness and tiredness. I'm assuming a good majority of
that was because of the blood loss but I know that some was from teh
surgery.
Good luck on your weight loss journey,
Chad

We all have too many numbers we keep track of, right? Our ATM pin number, our SSN#, phone numbers, dates, our age, the birthdates of our kids, our anniversaries. The list goes on. But what about numbers having to do our bodies? Our pant size, our bra size, that damn BMI, the number on the scale....and do we go by the number on the scale at our own house or the scale at the doctor's office or the scale at our best friend's house?

Come to the Promised Support Meeting Thursday night (6:30 Jones Creek Library) and we'll talk about how we let these numbers control how we feel about ourselves, our lives, our bodies.

Hope to see you there.

- Jamie Dean

Georgia Kiley DiBenedetto [INLINE]

Well, if I average my total weight loss over the time I stopped losing, it is about 12 months and about 10 per months. However, I lost 75% of that within the first 6 months.
Christie Cruso <cccruso@...

I have a question for the group..... I had my surgery on July 26th.... What is the average weight loss per month, on average that is?????.....Christie

Hello All!

This Thursday's meeting subject will be Body Image. Jamie will be facilitating. The meeting is from 6:30 - 7:30pm at the Jones Creek Library. ALL are welcome to join us for any meeting.

Remember the 3rd Thursday of each month, the subject will be Back on Track. Also, we will NOT be meeting on Thursday, Aug. 31 due to the upcoming Labor Day weekend holiday. We will of course be back the following Thursday, Sept. 7 for our regularly scheduled meeting. The subject that evening will be Relationships, Nancy will be facilitating. Trish will be facilitating on Thurs. Sept. 14, subject to be announced at a later date.

I look forward to seeing everyone on Thursday!

Take care,

GA

Georgia Kiley DiBenedetto [INLINE]

Georgia is correct, even though I gave you my average or so. It really does depend and don't get discouraged. It works in the long run and will work for you too.
Georgia <georgiad40@...

Christie...

I think the standard answer to that will be..."it depends"...on your beginning weight, sex (men lose faster in general) and several other factors. I personally lost 27 pounds in the first 2 weeks, but PLEASE please don't compare yourself to anyone. Everyone is different and I'd hate to see you discouraged by anyone else's results. Just "go with the flow" the weight WILL come off.

Good luck to all the newbies! I hope some of you can join us for coffee next month, although I know a few of you are out of state :(

GA

7-31-03
330 starting weight
165 goal weight
150 present weight
5' 11"

LOL, why thank you Bubba! [INLINE]
Bubba <bubbar@...

I second what Georgia said. She is so Smart :-)
Bubba

I second what Georgia said. She is so Smart :-)

Bubba

Christie...

I think the standard answer to that will be..."it depends"...on your beginning weight, sex (men lose faster in general) and several other factors. I personally lost 27 pounds in the first 2 weeks, but PLEASE please don't compare yourself to anyone. Everyone is different and I'd hate to see you discouraged by anyone else's results. Just "go with the flow" the weight WILL come off.

Good luck to all the newbies! I hope some of you can join us for coffee next month, although I know a few of you are out of state :(

GA

7-31-03

330 starting weight

165 goal weight

150 present weight

5' 11"
Christie Cruso <cccruso@...

I have a question for the group..... I had my surgery on July 26th.... What is the average weight loss per month, on average that is?????.....Christie

I have a question for the group..... I had my surgery on July 26th.... What is the average weight loss per month, on average that is?????.....Christie
Linda Brooks <bayoupainter@...

Amy, I know it is kinda rough on you now, but I feel sure that you will be feeling better day by day. Once you are able to take food that is a little bit more substantial, you will really do well. Just know that we are here, following along with your progress, and thinking about you. And of course, you know you can ask us ANYTHING!
Linda
RNY 9/24/03

Amy, I know it is kinda rough on you now, but I feel sure that you will be feeling better day by day. Once you are able to take food that is a little bit more substantial, you will really do well. Just know that we are here, following along with your progress, and thinking about you. And of course, you know you can ask us ANYTHING!

Linda

RNY 9/24/03
Amy <kickbackfan@...

Hi Christie,
Thanks for your prayers. I am out of the hospital now, and I'm home
back in TN. I am using the "New-Whey" vials of liquid protein, 2 a day -
in jello. But I can't tolerate the Cherry Prostat diluted or in jello.
It is awful to me. I guess I am getting better day by day. But this is
only day 3 of the 10-day liquid phase. Ugh. I am already kinda burnt
out on jello and broth. And of course, that dreadful liquid protein. I
will be glad when I can try some of the milk based ones, and get to the
point where I can supplement with the bars. I know I like some of those.
Yes, Dr. Hargroder's office staff are wonderful. Cindy has been my main
contact person since I began looking into the surgery, and she is a
sweetheart. Everyone I met there in Baton Rouge, from patients to
medical personnel and up - were just awesome. I had very good care. And
this was my first surgery ever (of any kind).
Thanks again. I like hearing about experiences of different patients.
It's like a support group - online. And since I am out of state, this
is a good outlet.
Thanks again, and you take care also!
hugs,
Amy W. surgery 8-17-06
ps. I still have fluid and swelling and haven't lost any weight. Boo
hoo :(

Hi Amy,
I am so sorry to hear what happened. Are you still in the hospital?
Have you been able to get "Anything" down? You might want to ask the
staff at Dr. Hardgroder's office to see what they might suggest. I
received great help and answers to questions I had when I called them.
The cherry prostat I blended with my water so it wasn't that strong and
sweet. Have you tried doing that? Good luck to you. You're in my
prayers for a speedy recovery.....Christie

Linda [INLINE]

AMY,

I JUST WANTED YOU TO KNOW THAT I AM THINKING AND WILL SAY A PRAYER FOR YOU. IT WILL PASS AND YOU WILL BE ON THE ROAD TO A NEW AND HEALTHIER YOU! MY HEART DOES GO OUT TO YOU, I KNOW ITS HARD RIGHT NOW, BUT HANG IN THERE! LET ME KNOW HOW YOU ARE COMING ALONG, YOU SHOULD GET A LITTLE BETTER EACH DAY.

BIG HUG TO YOU,

DIANE H.

Hi Christie,
Thanks for your prayers. I am out of the hospital now, and I'm home
back in TN. I am using the "New-Whey" vials of liquid protein, 2 a day -
in jello. But I can't tolerate the Cherry Prostat diluted or in jello.
It is awful to me. I guess I am getting better day by day. But this is
only day 3 of the 10-day liquid phase. Ugh. I am already kinda burnt
out on jello and broth. And of course, that dreadful liquid protein. I
will be glad when I can try some of the milk based ones, and get to the
point where I can supplement with the bars. I know I like some of those.
Yes, Dr. Hargroder's office staff are wonderful. Cindy has been my main
contact person since I began looking into the surgery, and she is a
sweetheart. Everyone I met there in Baton Rouge, from patients to
medical personnel and up - were just awesome. I had very good care. And
this was my first surgery ever (of any kind).
Thanks again. I like hearing about experiences of different patients.
It's like a support group - online. And since I am out of state, this
is a good outlet.
Thanks again, and you take care also!
hugs,
Amy W. surgery 8-17-06
ps. I still have fluid and swelling and haven't lost any weight. Boo
hoo :(

Hi Amy,
I am so sorry to hear what happened. Are you still in the hospital?
Have you been able to get "Anything" down? You might want to ask the
staff at Dr. Hardgroder's office to see what they might suggest. I
received great help and answers to questions I had when I called them.
The cherry prostat I blended with my water so it wasn't that strong and
sweet. Have you tried doing that? Good luck to you. You're in my
prayers for a speedy recovery.....Christie

Hi Amy,

I am so sorry to hear what happen. Are you still in the hospital? Have you been able to get "Anything" down? You might want to ask the staff at Dr. Hardgroder's office to see what they might suggest. I received great help and answers to questions I had when I called them. The cherry prostat I blended with my water so it wasn't that strong and sweet, have you tried doing that? Good luck to you and your in my prayers for a speedy recovery.....Christie
Amy <kickbackfan@...

Hi. I had my surgery this past Thursday, August 17. I ended up having a
staple line bleed (into my intestines), and had to get 2 units of
blood. I was stable by the next day, but my blood counts aren't up yet.
I've had a lot of blood loss thru going to the bathroom of course, and
lots of pain in my lower belly... which is nowhere near the insicions.
Has anyone else had this experience? I still have very low energy. And
everything tastes bad to me. Even sugar free popsicles. Too sweet! I
guess my taste buds have changed, and I am weak from having blood loss.
But I'm wondering how soon I will bounce back? And what I can do to
better tolerate the taste of the protein stuff. The Prostat is nasty
(cherry concentrate liquid). It burns like cough syrup and just makes
my stomach roll. I wonder if I can use whey-protein isolate powder in
these first 10 days? I got some lemonade flavored Syntrax powder, and
thought I could make it into jello or something. Can anyone help
reassure me that this too shall pass. I'm having a rough recovery, and
tho I loved everyone at Dr. Hardgroder's office and the Vista Surgical
Hospital, I still feel depressed.
Help!
Thanks, Amy

Hi. I had my surgery this past Thursday, August 17. I ended up having a
staple line bleed (into my intestines), and had to get 2 units of
blood. I was stable by the next day, but my blood counts aren't up yet.
I've had a lot of blood loss thru going to the bathroom of course, and
lots of pain in my lower belly... which is nowhere near the insicions.
Has anyone else had this experience? I still have very low energy. And
everything tastes bad to me. Even sugar free popsicles. Too sweet! I
guess my taste buds have changed, and I am weak from having blood loss.
But I'm wondering how soon I will bounce back? And what I can do to
better tolerate the taste of the protein stuff. The Prostat is nasty
(cherry concentrate liquid). It burns like cough syrup and just makes
my stomach roll. I wonder if I can use whey-protein isolate powder in
these first 10 days? I got some lemonade flavored Syntrax powder, and
thought I could make it into jello or something. Can anyone help
reassure me that this too shall pass. I'm having a rough recovery, and
tho I loved everyone at Dr. Hardgroder's office and the Vista Surgical
Hospital, I still feel depressed.
Help!
Thanks, Amy

sounds good to me, alisa~

How about Sunday, Sept. 10 at 3pm? Same place...CC'S on Siegen Lane?

GA
ya'll look great!!! can't wait to see u guys.....when is the next coffee date???? alisa~

Georgia Kiley DiBenedetto [INLINE]

I am the only Male in the photo. Georgia is to my right and Jodi to my left. Front row left to right is Linda and Lori.

How's that?

ya'll look great!!! can't wait to see u guys.....when is the next coffee date???? alisa~

I take 1cc B-12 every week, NOT 1000! Sorry bout that!

I have been taking vitamins from the Maximum Living Line (makinghealthychoices.com) for a little over a year, and I find they are extremely high quality and highly absorbable, and I tolerate them better than anything else I have tried. They cost a little more, but I feel better.

I take their: (2) Vita Sprout Caps (it's their multi made from veggies & sprouts)

(2) Solu-C Caps (also has important flavonoids)

MineralRich Liquid Minerals (I pour a slug of it in my water bottle)

Then I also take a flax seed oil capsule and a borage oil capsule (supposed to be so good for your skin), and a 400mg vitamin E. And I also do the B-12 sub-lingual, along with a 1000cc shot of B-12 every week.

Linda

Jodi <tobscholarly@...

Okay, I would like everyone to post what vitamins they are taking on a
daily basis. I thought I was doing what I was supposed to, but after
talking to Lori, I think i am under-vitaminning. Some kind of
guideline would be nice.
Each day I take:
1 Centrum chewable
1 Iron (??mg)
3 Calcium Citrate (500 mg each)
1 B1 (??mg)
And I inject myself with 1000 mg of B-12 once a week.
Should I be adding anything? Opinions would be great!
Jodi

Linda [INLINE]

Kristi,

Thanks for sending the schedule.

Did you have a good vacation? Hope to see you soon...

Georgia

Georgia Kiley DiBenedetto [INLINE]

Okay, I would like everyone to post what vitamins they are taking on a
daily basis. I thought I was doing what I was supposed to, but after
talking to Lori, I think i am under-vitaminning. Some kind of
guideline would be nice.
Each day I take:
1 Centrum chewable
1 Iron (??mg)
3 Calcium Citrate (500 mg each)
1 B1 (??mg)
And I inject myself with 1000 mg of B-12 once a week.
Should I be adding anything? Opinions would be great!
Jodi

Dear Lorraine,
Hope you are almost feeling up to getting back to posting! Thank you so much
for letting me know how things are now going for you... hey, 3-4 weeks isn't
bad, I didn't every 2 last time... I know hair isn't worth life itself, but gosh
darnit, my bangs just finally grew out to below my nose!! Finally almost to
where I was with hair and may be time to lose it all again!! Chemo is so
definitive as cancer with hair loss, whereas with radiation, and hair back, no
one even knows about the illness.. Two completely different lifestyles just
because of hair or not!!
I'm glad to hear the port was a piece of cake. I'm lucky I made it through
the 8 treatments I did the first time, let alone 4 tries of getting an IV in for
surgery definitely lets me know chemo will not be without a CATH this time.
You as well take care, and by all means, what are friends for but to be "real"
friends!!
Love to you!
Michele
"L. Mirza" <haq4u@...
Dear Michele,
I have shaved my head already and while I am on
Taxotere I will have hair loss. This first does will
be less to see how I tolerate it. On Aug. 23rd I will
have my second and full dose. From then on it will be
that same dose ever 3-4 weeks with occasional
"vacations" but not many.
That's the way it's going to be and Kathy on this list
who has been going thru chemo and doing great has been
a great support for me.
Kathy is on something else now and if I remember
correctly her hair is growing back.
But for me while I'm sad not to have hair and may have
to accept it for much if not all of my life, if this
prolongs my life and there is a pretty decent quality
of life, it's worth the trade.
I don't think I look ugly bald. A bit comical but not
ugly. My 22 month old grandson laughs whenever I pull
up my cap. The port insertion was a piece of cake and
so far not even much more than a little tiny ache. I
expect that to be gone as soon as things heal.
I've got to get to bed as have chemo early in the
morning, but I did want to answer you now. I don't
know how I'll feel after chemo so give me a few days
to rest afterwards before getting back on the
computer.
Meanwhile you take good care of yourself. You're a
great lady and if I may, I would like to count you as
a real friend!
Regards, Loraine

Please review the attached document.

Yes, everyone's looking good, now identify yourself....lol!!! and plan another coffee date, cuz i wanna try and come...alisa~

Dang, aren't we a good looking bunch! LOL
It was so good to see everyone again. Let's do it again soon, k?
GA

Ok gang I have downloaded the pictures from CCs Coffee.

Bubba

Marian,
You certainly have been through a lot. I am Stage II so can't help you with any
questions but will keep you in my prayers.
Hugs
Marianne
Breast Cancer Patients Soul Mates for Life
http://www.geocities.com/chucky5741/breastcancerpatients.html
BreastCancerStories.com
http://www.breastcancerstories.com/content/view/433/161/
Angel Feather Loomer
www.angelfeatherloomer.blogspot.com
Check out my other ornaments at
www.geocities.com/chucky5741/bcornament.html
Lots of info and gifts at:
www.cancerclub.com

Candice,

I personally was nauseated for most of 3 months. I'm unusual though, in most ways! LOL I found something called "Queasy Pops" or "Preggie Pops" helped me big time. They can be found online or in Babies R Us. I was finally able to eat, but would still get nauseated by everything for that first 3 months.

Good luck!

Georgia

Georgia Kiley DiBenedetto [INLINE]

im on post op day 5 and i am still very nauseaed. They told me i would be for a couple of days, but its been 5. Is that normal. I cann't do the liquid diet because everything makes me have nausea. It is making me very upset and weak because the only thing i eat is ice chips and sometimes popciles. I am very worried that i am still this bad off. Is there anything I should know? How do i make it go away?

Candice

Hello all,

I wanted to first say how much I enjoyed gathering for coffee this past Sunday. It was so good to see Linda, Jodi, Bubba and his wife...I'm going to try to set something up once a month so we can see eachother more often. Everyone is such good company!

This Thursday, at the Jones Creek Library our topic of discussion is "Back on Track". The meeting begins at 6:30pm, check the board just inside the door for the room assignment. I'll be facilitating. I've been thinking about this topic alot lately...and have been wondering how others feel about it. What do you think of when you think of getting back on track? What makes us feel we NEED to get back on track? Are there drawbacks to getting back on track? Something to think about...and something to discuss this week at our meeting. Bring your ideas, suggestions, helpful hints, etc.

I hope to see a bunch of us there this week!

As always, Dr.'s Hargroder and Bellanger have their meeting on Wednesday's at their office (the old NeWeigh building in front of Vista) at 6pm. Make a meeting. It's so nice to have the support of people like ourselves.

Take care,

GA

7-31-03

Dr. H/Vista Surg. Hosp.

Starting weight: 330

Goal weight: 165

Present weight: 146

Height: 5' 11"

yea, yea, I'm too freakin' thin...here's my response to that "whatever, deal with it" LOLOLOL

LOVE Y'ALL!!!!!!!!!!!!

Georgia Kiley DiBenedetto [INLINE]

I don't know Pat, why wouldn't you be nice to me ALL the time????
Lizanne

Oh no, Jodie...please don't take that pleasure away from me! I'LL handle him...LOLOLOL.

I can't wait to see everyone! Woo hoo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

GA

Georgia Kiley DiBenedetto [INLINE]

Thank you all for welcoming me, and for your comments and suggestions.
I am glad this group is available. I don't have anyone here, that is
going thru this with me. And I'm coming from so far away, that I won't
be able to go to any local group meetings. So it's good to know that I
can still have peer support via the online group.
I guess I will try some of the sample sizes of protein supplements. I
doubt I will like the taste of them, but who knows. The nectar sounds
interesting. Whey protein powder in eggs? hehe.. That sounds weird. But
I know my entire eating habits are going to change. And I'm looking
forward to not feeling so addicted to food. And finding a new, more
confident - me.
I will stay connected and look forward to getting to know some of
you. :)
Take care and be blessed,
Amy

Okie dokie folks! CC's on Siegen on Sunday at 3 PM sounds great to me!
Clare is thrilled because it is not often I let my 12 year old consume
a giant cup of caffeine. It is like legal crack for her. And Georgia,
Liz is ALL she has talked about since I mentioned this get together so
THANK YOU for bringing her! I hope it is not too much of a problem
with the ex. If it is, you want me to come with you & kick his butt?
Anyway, I look forward to seeing so many of you, both beginners and
old-hats! Take care!
Jodi

OK, let's do CC's on Siegen (in front of Target) since it's bigger and we may have a large group.

Sunday, Aug. 13 at 3pm.

I'm looking forward to seeing new people and old friends.

GA

Georgia Kiley DiBenedetto [INLINE]

Amy,

My 2 cents for protein would be: don't buy ALOT of anything. What you like now, may/will change after surgery. Maybe hit GNC and buy a couple of the bottles of premade liquid protein. OR better yet, go to www.vitalady.com or www.bariatriceating.com and order sample sizes of different types of protein. That way you can taste them and see what you like before you buy a big jug of something you won't like later. Plus, they're great for newly post-ops since you can't drink alot of anything anyway. And, like everyone else has said...get your water, water, water and walk, walk, walk...LOL.

GOOD LUCK

Georgia

7-31-03

Dr. H

Vista Surg. Hosp

330-165-145

Georgia Kiley DiBenedetto [INLINE]

Hi Alisa,

here was Georgia's suggestion. We will have to ask her which CC's we will be meeting at.

CC's on Jones Creek @ Coursey (or Siegen if more accessible for everyone) at 3pm on Sunday, Aug. 13?

Jodi, I can't wait to see you! Yes, I'll bring Liz...she's supposed to go to her dad's that afternoon, but I'll keep her with me and bring her afterwards so she can see Clare, how's that?

OK, everyone...Siegen or Jones Creek? My 1st choice is Jones Creek, but whatever's easiest for everyon is fine for me. Let us know...

Can't wait to see everyone again...I think I'll post the info to the "old" Neweigh Group...now called Promised Support also.

See you all Sunday

GA

Georgia Kiley DiBenedetto [INLINE]

Susan,
That's good to know. I met a guy on match.com two years ago and we
dated nearly a year before we parted as friends. He is dating
someone else he met there and they are thinking about the future. I
once tried eHarmony for a short while, but after I answered 9,000
questions, they matched me with guys who live hours away. I'm not
really THAT enthusiastic about finding someone that I have to go that
far. I have heard that same complaint from others, glad that wasn't

i love cc's.....when are ya'll meeting, i'd love to meet ya'll there....thanx alisa~

Clare wants to know if you are bringing your daughter Liz to coffee
next Sunday. She would LOVE to see her again!
Please let me know so she can plan her "social calendar" around it!
Thanks honey!
Jodi

Hello to you also! Congratulations on your decision to do GBS!
Protein suggestions that worked for me, after trying MANY different
brands, are:
Matrix Powder - chocolate - I order from
www.atomicnutrition.com or from www.bariatriceating.com. The latter
website is cool because it tells you how to make hot chocolate using
the protein powder. VERY tasty.
IDS - vanilla cinnamon - SO good! Makes a fabulous shake.
Detour bars - great protein bars that even come in a low sugar
option now. Taste similar to a caramel nut candy bar but have 15 or
30 (depending on which size you get) grams of protein.
I have not found any protein powders to add to food that I like at
all. I have resigned myself to a protein shake in the morning & a
protein bar as an afternoon snack to help get my protein needs in
for the day and then leave "normal" food as it is.
Good luck!
Jodi

Amy,

I just passed through TN on vacation. I guess I should have picked you up on the way home... just kidding.

Oh, don't worry, you are in good hands. Actually, if it makes you feel better, I have had MANY surgeries. Let me see, tonsils, adnoids, wisdom teeth, c-sections, two shoulder surgeries, gbs with Dr. H, and of course that aweful skin removal surgery. To tell you the truth, the easiest for me as far as the healing and lack of pain was the gbs surgery. Some people feel weak after, but some feel a burst of energy. Sure, there were days I was a bit weak, but overall, I was so energetic and found that in no time at all I could do things I couldn't do before... those remarkable milestones that made it all worthwhile... such as, but not exclusive to, walking more than two house widths, being able to pull the car seat up towards the steering wheel so I could reach the gas without my tippy toes, putting on the seatbelt, and of course many, many more that either I just can't remember at this point or that I just can't say online... you should all know what I am talking about.

As far as the protein is concerned... I can say that when I have added any to anything it has changed the texture or taste a little. Yes, I was bold enough to believe that this tasteless stuff wouldn't change my coffee... yuk. Also, your taste will change. You will find that some things you like now you might not like after surgery and visa versa. Also, everyone's experience is so different. So, right after surgery stick to the schedule the way they tell you to. Once you graduate to the milky stuff I think you can start experimenting more with different types of protein. I think the protein that I had to get at first was at the GNC store.

Georgia and many others have told me about different types of protein. If you like the koolaide type of taste there is a place online where you can get something that is called "whey fruity" or something like that. Anyone chime in to help here.

I personally LOVE this protein shake that is a milky based one. It is one that is Herbal Life brand and the flavor that I like best is cookies n cream. Trish, someone also in this group, sells this flavor and many more.

There are tons out there. There is whey and soy. I personally like soy best. I also enjoyed the Edge drinks for a while... my taste buds changed. No matter how much I changed and what types of protein I liked and didn't like, I never lost my taste for eggs or for that cookies and cream Herbal Life stuff. YUM.

People make all sorts of different types of drinks. Some invent their own. Just remember to also get that water in, so in the beginning you will be doing a lot of sipping.

Congrats on making a positive choice in the right direction for your own life. You have made a choice to better yourself. So, enjoy your journey.

Cherie H.

12/10/03

Dr. H

[INLINE] Have a happy day!

Hello.
Glad to see this group here. I am coming for surgery on the
17th of August.. just a week and a half away. I am traveling from TN,
with my Mom. We're about 500 miles North of most of you. Everything
that I have read and heard about Dr. Hargroder and his staff has been
positive and reassuring, so I am really looking forward to getting
the lapraoscopic gastric bypass done. I'm not looking forward to the
hospital part, but I'll be glad to get it behind me.
Who can give me some protein supplement suggestions? I just want to
get something I can stand the taste of, if I put it in something..
like sugar free pudding. I would probably handle one that is
chocolate flavored, or vanilla - over something fruity or orange
flavored. I hope to find one with a high concentration of protein,
where you don't have to add tons of mix to the drink or food.
Any suggestions?? If so, please respond. I don't want to lose a ton
of hair.. haha; and besides, they said I would need some type of
supplement, at least for a while.
Any other suggestions or words of caution.. please let me know.
Thank you & Take care!
Amy Williams

Hello hello hello! So good to read posts from all of you! It is
kinda strange to hear the newcomers' comments, nervousness,
anxiety... seems like so long ago when I was there.
I am going to try like CRAZY to do coffee with you guys next Sunday!
We have a birthday party to go to but I am going to attempt to con
my husband into taking the kids. :) Wish me luck! Did we decide on
Siegen or Jones Creek?
I can find either because I can smell coffee 5 miles away. Triple
cafe au lait with sugar free vanilla and caramel and a little bit of
whipped cream.
I blame Georgia. I was never an addict until she introduced me to
the wonders of coffee.
I am between 165 and 170. I had my surgery Oct. 4, 2004. I wear
12/14 in pants and medium in tops (and I am 5'9"). I have no
delusions of ever being 110 and in a size 5, but I would like to get
to 150. *sigh* I suppose this means exercise. Of course, for those
of you who have known me awhile, you may remember my venture into
personal trainers...
... yes, that was me flailing around in the corner, screaming &
moaning about muscle pain & exertion in general. I am the poster
child for sloth.
Anyway, I look forward to seeing as many of you, new and old alike,
at CCs as possible!
Take care!
Jodi
10/4/04
270/150/165ish

I have never taken Xeloda but will continue to keep you in my prayers.
Hugs
Marianne
Breast Cancer Patients Soul Mates for Life
http://www.geocities.com/chucky5741/breastcancerpatients.html
Check out my breast cancer ornaments at:
http://www.geocities.com/chucky5741/bcornament.html
also check out my other ornaments and lots of nice gifts at:
http://www.cancerclub.com

Sounds wonderful to me. Can't wait to see you guys!

Linda
Georgia DiBenedetto <georgiad40@...

Alrighty, ladies and gents...how about CC's on Jones Creek @ Coursey (or Siegen if more accessible for everyone) at 3pm on Sunday, Aug. 13?

Input????????????

GA
Georgia Kiley DiBenedetto [INLINE]

I recently went to put on a new pair of pants and caught myself
thinking that I can't fit into these things. Of course I can and do
fit them just fine. I know this a mental carryover thing but am I the
only one that is going thru this? I have gone from wearing a 52"
waist pants down to 34" waist slacks now. I just couldn't believe
what I was thinking. I am 8 months out from my RNY and have lost 130
lbs and of course inches everywhere. Why can't I seem to get over
this mentality that I am still fat?

just my humble input...LOL....

It took me about two years to get over that feeling. I can now walk by a mirror/window and see myself...not think "who is that skinny chick?"...LOLOL.

Enjoy the journey! It's a blast of a ride........

GA

7-31-03

330-165-145

Dr. H

Vista Surg

Georgia Kiley DiBenedetto [INLINE]

Sounds good to me

Bubba

Alrighty, ladies and gents...how about CC's on Jones Creek @ Coursey (or Siegen if more accessible for everyone) at 3pm on Sunday, Aug. 13?

Input????????????

GA

Georgia Kiley DiBenedetto [INLINE]

Newbie to the group here. Like all of you, I have stage IV breast
cancer. I'm 31. Had double mastectomy six months ago. Since I'm
triple negative, effective treatments don't seem to be bountiful.
Would love to connect with others with similar situation, especially
triple negative. Also would like to know of any other stage IV breast
cancer support or education groups online.
Email me offline if possible.
Nicole

Hi Bubba,
I am a typical worried mom. My 19 yr old son, Daniel is scheduled for RNY
8/7/06 with Dr. Hargroder. My husband and I are more worried about risks,
side effects, life changes, and the big one...will our junk food junkie be
able to stick with the program? Daniel gained a lot of weight after 2 auto
accidents and a job injury in 2005. He used to do power-lifting and still
eats like a weight lifter. What kind of protein supplements do you
recommend? What tastes good? He likes vanilla shakes. Is there something
that tastes like a vanilla smoothie. I heard about gladiator from smoothie
king. Have you tried it? Do you know of any other guys Daniel's age that
had the surgery and did well? Would you be willing to talk to him and
answer some questions? He is too shy to ask in front of a big group. I
would be so very grateful.
Molly W. Nicosia
4367 Rose Garden Circle
Zachary, LA 70791-7333
225-654-7663

Hey Mike,
Great pic's. Great job with the weight loss. It looks like you have really
changed your lifestyle, your an inspiration.
Welcome,
Edie

Hi Carolyn,

I am so happy everything worked out for you and you are doing well. I am getting nervous myself! I am scheduled to have my operation tomorrow, wednesday July 26th, in the morning at 9am. Please keep in touch.......Christie
terrhs70 <terrhs70@...

Just wanted to tell everyone what a great doctor and assistant, we all
have. I had gastric by-pass roux-n-y on July 17. I weighed 379# on
pre-op. I was on the table for 3 and 1/2 hours and awoke to lovely GAS
pains ! LOL. Dr. Hargroder and Holly managed to not only do the by-
pass lap, but also removed the gallbladder and fix a small hernia all
laparascopically in that short time.
They are both very talented at what they do! I have post-op check-up
tomorrow, Wednesday, and will let you all know what the loss is for the
first week.
I am so glad, with researching and friends sharing information that I
was led to Dr. Hargroder. He is the best ! Thanks again for the GAS
Dr.!
Carolyn

Just wanted to tell everyone what a great doctor and assistant, we all
have. I had gastric by-pass roux-n-y on July 17. I weighed 379# on
pre-op. I was on the table for 3 and 1/2 hours and awoke to lovely GAS
pains ! LOL. Dr. Hargroder and Holly managed to not only do the by-
pass lap, but also removed the gallbladder and fix a small hernia all
laparascopically in that short time.
They are both very talented at what they do! I have post-op check-up
tomorrow, Wednesday, and will let you all know what the loss is for the
first week.
I am so glad, with researching and friends sharing information that I
was led to Dr. Hargroder. He is the best ! Thanks again for the GAS
Dr.!
Carolyn

Hello to both of you newbies!

Congrats and I will keep you in my prayers.

Dr. H is wonderful.

Myspace bar is giving me fits, sorry...I..was..his..patient...3..years..ago..and...like..you..both..said

this..is..the..beginning...of...a..new...and..better..life.

keep...writing.

i...will...get...a......new....keyboard!

cherie

12/10/03

305/155/145

[INLINE] Have a happy day!

Hi,
I am Carolyn. Like Christy I had my meeting with Dr. Hargroder and am
scheduled for surgery July 17. Excited and nervous also, but can't
wait to start on the road to HEALTH !

Christy, you are in good hands. Dr. Hargroder is an exceptional
surgeon. I had an excellent by-pass and recovery. He and his staff
are just wonderful. Congratulations on your decision to have this
done. Keep us posted.

Hi! I just had my meeting with Dr. Hargroder and am scheduled to have
my surgery on July 12th. Excited and nervous at the same time.

Sorry about that. I should have put my weight in on the posting. :)
I started out 300 lbs. and I am now 188.8 lbs. I have hit a plateau
for the last 3-4 weeks. I have been right at the 190 lb. mark for a
while now. I really like brocolli too. I have been eating a lot of
the morningstar farms veggie burgers and bocca products. I get them
at walmart. The bocca ground soy meat, my wife loves to cook with. I
made enchiladas with it the other night and no one that cooked for
could tell that it wasn't beef. :0) I mainly eat grilled chicken &
grilled fish. I started out liking tuna but now I am having a hard
time getting myself to eat it. I still like the talapia, smoked
salmon, and shrimp. I also have enjoyed but starting to get tired of
taco bell beans.
David

David,
Do you mind if I ask your starting weight? I started
at 254 and have lost 68 lbs. to 186. I had my surgery
a week before you did. So, your 110 lbs. loss sounds
great to me. I exercise regularly, but I haven't
found a protein supplement that I can stomach. I eat
mostly baked or grilled chicken, some fish, and I love
brocolli. What types of food have you been eating? I
start my day with a Slim Fast Low Carb Vanilla. It
shows to have more protein than even the high protein
Slim Fast. Thanks, for your post and the information.
It sounds like you are doing great. Congratulations.

My name is David and this is my first time to post. I had my RNY
Dec. 13, 2005. Dr. Hargroder did an awesome job. I am down 110
lbs. as of this morning. Hurray!! On the subject of changing taste
and proteins, I like so many others have gone thru the same
changes. I have tried too many protein mixes to count. My favorite
throughout the whole time has been the Nectar products. Mainly the
Strawberry / Kiwi and Roadside lemonade. I didn't care too much for
the natural peach but it does work good in smoothies. I have gone
from liking one flavor to just plain hating it and back again a
couple months later. I have always been unable to drink milk but it
has gotten even worse since my surgery. Even though I haven't been
posting on a regular basis, I have been monitoring the postings and
gleaning a lot of information from them. I also have found that one
of the best helps I have is the program from Fitday.com. I print
out the results and take them to my doctor and he loves the
information. It makes it a lot easier to keep track of my protein
intake among other things. Thank you for the suggestion that
someone gave months ago.
Thank You,
David

Welcome to the group and to a new life! I had my surgery 9/24/2003 and have lost 120, and maintained it. My tastes did not really change a whole lot, but I know that it is something quite common. I have found that I truly LOVE crunchy salads now. Before...not so much. As far as protein supps go, I sometimes grab a ready-to-

go EAS Advant Edge Carb control drink. They are ok. Don't really like the kind you have to mix. But EVERYBODY is different. You will have to just try different ones to see what appeals to you.
Linda
mchairell <mchairell@...

Hello everyone. I had my surgery at Vista on December 8, 2005. To
date I have lost 68 lbs. Down from 254 to 186. I am 5'8" so I would
like to get to 155. Since my surgery I feel like my taste buds have
changed. I can't tolerate milk or ice cream ( a good thing, huh).
Has anyone else had this perception? I would also like to know what
everyone prefers in protein supplements. I hate those powder mixes.
Ilok forward to hearing from all in the group. Thanks, for including
me.

Linda [INLINE]

hi- not so much a newbie- but haven't been active- doing alot of
eavesdropping. i've been doing alot of internal thinking- i would like
to know if there are any drs out there that actually care about the
patient rather than the money/politics of the whole big pharma. i'm
not sure thats really my question. I guess I'm looking for someone -
not to feel sorry for me- but for someone - a dr- to want to find the
cure- rather than the allopathic way of thnking- waiting until the meds
stop working and then going to another- i've been in touch with a
naturapath- who in the beginning seemed like the fit- we went over alot
of stuff- did alot of blood test- has me taking supplements- seemed
like the stuff i wanted to hear- but NO follow up- I know about this
whole co doctoring thing- i guess I'm not really sure what I'm looking
for- a doctor advocate- with some compassion- I hope someone
understands what I'm trying to say - just wanted some feed back
thanks
susie

Ally's response to my comment after she removed it:
Terri-
I know that many people reached out to offer you advice and support.
We are all human and sometimes we get off on a tanget and don't
always remember to change the topic.
I am sorry that you feel the way you do, but I know for a fact that
the people in this group are loving and caring. They go out of their
way to offer support. If you want to leave here because of a simple
mistake like forgetting to change the topic on a thread then feel
free, but know that you will miss out on a lot of love and support
from the people here.
I wish you all the best in your journey.
~Ally~
Atlanta, GA
Lap RNY 7/12/07
251/237/174/130
HW/SW/CW/GW
My comment that was removed:
Oh my goodnes!
I was so excited when I went to the group and saw so many replies to
my topic. Until I looked at them. Thank you to those few people who
commented on my feelings and gave me some encouragement. But I didn't
think that others would use my post, my cry for help as a personal
chat session. The majority of the replies are to others not me. If
you wanted to talk about a different topic you should have started a
new topic! I feel this is not the place for me. It seems that if your
not in the inner circle you get left out or neglected. Thanks for the
support I got when I was here and I wish you all continued success.
Terri

Hello everyone. I had my surgery at Vista on December 8, 2005. To
date I have lost 68 lbs. Down from 254 to 186. I am 5'8" so I would
like to get to 155. Since my surgery I feel like my taste buds have
changed. I can't tolerate milk or ice cream ( a good thing, huh).
Has anyone else had this perception? I would also like to know what
everyone prefers in protein supplements. I hate those powder mixes.
Ilok forward to hearing from all in the group. Thanks, for including
me.

I posted the following on the obesity-help.com board. An of you
guys had any experience with blood clots?
"My surgery date was on the 22nd of this month. Details of the
experience are in my profile.
My question is about blood clots. I had a blood clot in a minor vein
below my right knee after surgery. It kinda felt like a pulled
muscle but it really didn't bother me unless I flexed my calf
muscle. The doctor's assured me that it wasn't life threatening and
they put me on an aggressive anti-coagulation regimin of Lovanox and
Coumadin to be safe. I ended up spending an extra night in the
hospital because of it.
So I got home on Saturday afternoon and felt OK. Sunday was a good
day too. Monday was when everything started going downhill. I
started having bloody bm. 8 - 10 on Monday and 4 on Tuesday.
Tuesday I couldn't walk from my living room to the bathroom without
feeling like I ran a marathon. I went back to the hospital and they
readmitted me with internal gastrointestinal bleeding. They
immediately took me off the blood thinners and started giving me
fluid IV drips and such. I think my Hematocrit (sp.) level got
down to something like 21 at one point. It finally levelled off
yesterday and they let me come back home. I'm slowly getting my
strength back again and even walked a few times today for 5 - 10
minutes.
Now that I'm home I'm scared to death of getting another clot that
can wipe me out. I got re-dopplered before I left the hospital and
they blood thinners all but destroyed my existing clot and I can't
even feel it anymore when I flex my calf. What I DO feel is a
numb, pulled muscle feeling on my right outside thigh close to my
outer hip. I asked the doppler tech about it when they were re-
examining my inside legs and he said they only check the 'inside' of
the leg up the groin and that 'there weren't any veins on the outside
of your legs". Well... taking 4 years of anatomy in college I
think I remember some veins or arteries on the outside. Has anyone
ever developed any clots on the outside of their legs? (Outside as
in opposite side of the groin) I'm sure it's probably nothing but
better safe than sorry.
Sorry this is so long but I wanted to tell the full story."

Hi Nicole,
Triple Neg here and have gone from Stage 1 to IV in 25 months, and your right,
triple does have some disadvantages to the meds, it's really a 50/50 deal with
the pro's and con's of each anyways.
I'm 40 and had just a single mastectomy... with 2 recurrences so far.
Write back if you'd like to chat.
Michele
nicolew1968 <nicolew1968@...
Newbie to the group here. Like all of you, I have stage IV breast
cancer. I'm 31. Had double mastectomy six months ago. Since I'm
triple negative, effective treatments don't seem to be bountiful.
Would love to connect with others with similar situation, especially
triple negative. Also would like to know of any other stage IV breast
cancer support or education groups online.
Email me offline if possible.
Nicole

Diane,

A great way to get "stuff" we need is to buy online if you can't get out. www.vitalady.com has vitamins, protein drinks, plus the biggest advantage is that she sells SAMPLE sizes of the protein shake mixes, so you can try them out before you buy a big JUG of something. The protein pills are crazy, you have to take like 24 a day or some LARGE amount like that. There's something else that someone was walking about recently, don't remember the name, but it's a protein "shot", comes in a tube, in a bunch of different flavors, that you drink not inject or mix with anything. I'll try to ge tthe name of it, I can't remember right now.

I'm glad to hear you are doing OK, in spite of "life issues".

Take care,

GA

Georgia Kiley DiBenedetto [INLINE]

Hi Donna,
It can be very overwhelming. Just take one day or thing at a time and you will
be fine. There are alot of different drugs that can help keep blood cell counts
up. You might be fine on your treatment and not need anything so do not worry.
If your counts do become low your insurance should cover one of those drugs. I
never used newlasta or no anyone that has I am sure if your Dr. felt it was
needed he could help you get it. I found the least amount of extra drugs I took
the better I started to feel. Some of those drugs made me feel worse and had
more side effects then when I just did chemo and thats it. So when things calm
down and you have time read up on your perscription drugs and make sure they are
necassary for you. In the begining they had me on overload to get the cancer
under control but then needed to get off some of them and I started feeling
better. Good luck w/ everything and know the steroids might make you edgy. They
use to keep me awake all night and I gained weight in the begining and did not
realize how crazy they made me feel. Everyone is different and has their own
really strange experience w/ something so you just go w/ it and hope for the
best it will be ok.
Lesley

Hey everyone!!!! I am still around;just had alot going on lately.
Family issues and such. Alot of trouble with my teen age son;my
Grandmother just found out right before Christmas she has breast
cancer and had the one breast removed but they couldn`t get all the
cancer so she is taking the pills for treatment. She raised me and
my sister ;so she is a very big part of my life.And just alot more
stuff has been going on here besides. But I just wanted everyone to
know that I have been checking the posts from time to time just not
participating a whole lot.
Well,now to the wls;I am now down 62 pounds and doing good;just
struggling with hair loss for about a month.I am wearing a size 10
pants now that are a lil bit loose on me but can`t quite get in a
size 8 and can also wear a jrs.11,where I used to wear 18; and a
medium shirt ,where I used to wear a xxl. But I have been getting
my protein in for the most part;trying to do better. I am thinking
about taking the pills instead of the shakes lately. It would be
alot easier if I had all the stuff here in Mccomb Gnc, so I wait for
my husband to take me where I need to buy the stuff I need when he
is home from offshore;and he has been really busy lately with
meetings out of town and the such. So I am looking forward to
getting on track where I need to be.I feel GREAT over all~!!!! I
miss everyone. I thank God everyday for my second chance at life~!!!!
Ya`ll take care,Diane Welch

Good Morning everyone,

I just thought I'd let everyone know that our Thurs. night support group is meeting tonight at 6:30pm at CC's coffee on Jones Creek at Coursey. The meeting is of course open to ALL who wish to come! We should be there from 6:30 till around 7:30 - 8:00pm.

I hope some of you can make it!

TTYL

GA

Georgia Kiley DiBenedetto [INLINE]

Congrats Amber! That's awesome!!! Good luck with your pregnancy and upcoming wedding.

I sure do miss seeing everyone, even though I only made a few meetings at River West.

Our old "NeWeigh" group is meeting on Thursday nights. This Thursday we will be at CC's coffee on Jones Creek at Coursey (in Baton Rouge) at 6:30pm. Our regular meeting room is not available.

I'd love to see everyone.

Take care,

GA

330/165/150

7-31-03

Dr. H

Vista Surgical Hospital

Georgia Kiley DiBenedetto [INLINE]

Hi jody...great to see you again! We met ages ago in Plaquemine...
Like you I am at 172 and holding...no matter what I eat I stay the
same. Sad but a few old habits have been trying to sneak back in.
I agree with Georgia about the protein...20 different answers from
20 different people. I do not get the 80-100 grams a day but feel
great and haven't lost any hair that I have noticed.
I do have a problem...maybe someone can help me with. I eat about
every two hours...if I try to go longer I have severe hunger pains,
they get worse the longer I wait. If I drink milk they go away
within a few seconds...needless to say I drink lots of milk. Does
anyone else have this and what do you do???
Debbie

Hi everyone, I'm posting on both lists/groups...this is from Nancy Smith. Her number is below, call if you can help, please.

Georgia

P.S. I had a "scope" today, I definitely have an ulcer...no more red sauce for me I guess!
Hey GA.,

I tried to figure out out to go online to post this to all of our NeWeigh bypass patients. I just received an e-mail from one of my fellow church mates whose sisters' house burned down to the ground. They had already received a great deal of damage from Hurricane Rita and now this. She is asking for pant sizes 24 and shirt/bouse sizes in 26 and others in 3X or 4X. Would you please forward this e-mail to our NeWeigh posting so if anyone has anything they want to give I'll either get them in touch with my church or I can come and pick up the items myself for them. She was a diabetic and lost all of her medicine in the fire as well.
Please pass this on and if anyone can help, please let me know. Nancy Smith...cell 241-2152

Thanks!!!!!

Nancy

Georgia Kiley DiBenedetto [INLINE]

HI EVERYONE SOORY ITS BEEN SO LONG SINCE I POSTED THINGS HAVE BEEN
SORT OF CRAZY HERE. CAN ANYONE TELL ME ANY TIPS ON NUTRITION FOR
PREGNAT BARIATRIC PATIENTS I AM FOUR MONTHS AND I HAVE ONLY GAINED 2
POUNDS MY OBGYN IS AT ALOOS AS TO WHATE TO TELL ME TO DO ALL HE SAYS
IS EAT MORE MEALS BUT THAT DOSENT WORK I EAT AS MUCH AS I CAN AND I
EAT HEALTHY FOODS BUT I AM STILL NOT GAINING ENOUGH WEIGHT SO IF ANY
ONE CAN HELP ME I WOULD APPRECIATE IT.

Jodi,

It's good to hear from you.

Re: protein requirements...I hate to say it, but unfortunately you will hear 20 different answers from 20 different people. It's mostly opinion at this point I think. I'd say, go by how you feel...but