Hello,
Just letting you all know that Georgia's surgery was a success. The Dr expects her to be in her room shortly. She is at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Gonzales. She should be home tomorrow afternoon sometime. I will keep you posted if anything changes.
Thanks,
I HATE TO SOUND SO STUPID, BUT WHAT EXACTLY IS THE "REVISION SURGERY" ALL ABOUT THAT GA IS HAVING? I REMEMBER READING SOME POST FROM GEORGIA AND THEY SEEMED LIKE SHE WAS DOING REALLY WELL. WHAT HAPPENED? SHE WILL BE IN MY PRAYERS AND THOUGHTS.
ANYONE WHO CAN HELP ENLIGHTEN ME, I WOULD GREATLY APPRECIATE IT.
THANKS TO ALL OF YOU,
DIANE H
Ya'll are too sweet...thank you. I got a bit nervous over the weekend...and a bit morbid LOL...called my Mom, my oldest son, and TOM and told them all "If anything happens to me on Wednesday, get my kids out of LA and over to Oregon, please" Once I did that I wasn't nervous anymore. I know I'll be fine. I'm normal nervous now, not panicking like I was for a bit :)
Trish will let ya'll know how I am afterward. My girls are going to call her.
OH, and I have another prayer request...my 17 yr old daughter is coming home tomorrow, for an eleven day visit, and her 19 year old sister left her abusive boyfriend yesterday (thank GOD) so I will soon have FOUR kids (who are not little :)) and me living in my little 3 bedroom apartment! Pray for us...LOL...pray for poor Andy! Pray that Sarah can STAY AWAY from her boyfriend, long enough to heal from the emotional scars that the last 2 years have caused. My poor girl.
THANK YOU all...for your kind thoughts, words and prayers.
GA
Georgia Kiley DiBenedetto
Hey, Be sure Rachel calls me and tells me how things went and I will post the good news about the successful surgery. So everyone will be aware that you are well.
Hi girls
After having my tiny bit of breast surgery I came home and had quite severe
pains in my back and across the waist. I don't think it was anything to do with
the surgery, just coincidence that this has happened around the same time.
I was due to go to onc three days later and when I got there I was admitted
for various scans, the results not yet reported and need to return to hospital
tomorrow. (home on weekend leave) I need a brain scan, have had a bone scan and
whole body CT scan and 17 bottles of blood drawn for testing. Most of the tests
came back OK but as my son flew over to see me I was depsarate to come home,
hence the weekend leave but I particularly asked that the onc did not give me
any results on Friday as I wanted, preferred, not knowing until Monday (unless
it was something that couldn't wait two days.)
I have spent most of the weekend in pain, in bed, and even though I have taken
over 100mg morphine today, in the last 8 hours, I can't get completely out of
pain though some is reduced. My poor son has spent most of the time running
around doing jobs for me and fetching me drinks and lunch. So much for his visit
over here which has turned into a nursing weekend for him ~ not that he minds or
complains, bless him.
I don't think I have ever felt this ill, normally I just get on with things,
get stuck into cleaning, tidying etc or some task but this time I am completely
shattered, no energy can be summoned at all, but not only that I also have no
brain power to talk myself into getting on with something, I have no desire to
do anything except a couple of times I have been on this site and checked my
other emails but my physical and emotional strength has just gone today.
Is there anyone out there who is taking high doses of morphine ever felt like
this, did your thinking skills fail you or any other symptoms you can tell me
about? A friend rang today and it was an effort to think and converse, I just
wanted her to get off the phone and had to say, 'this is all too much for me I
have to go to bed.'
If you have had high morphine doses long or short term did you ever feel like
this? I ask this mostly because I take a lot of morphine either for bone pain or
jawbone pain but never before felt completely zapped, the way I am today.
Love to all, Velvet (UK)
Hey everyone,
Some of you know that I've been having some tummy issues lately...it's too freaking long to go into right now....I just wanted to let everyone know I'm having surgery on Wednesday. Dr Hargroder is doing a "revision", NOT a reversal, and hopefully this will take care of my problems. Basically, he goes in and removes the part of my pouch that is causing problems, and the very beginning part of the intestine (stoma) that's causing problems, and then reconnects it all. I'll be at St Elizabeth's Hospital overnight on Wednesday and hopefully, barring any complications, back at my desk at work on Monday.
Please keep my and Dr H in your prayers. I'm nervous, but now overly so. I hate being "cut on" again, but I need to be able to eat!
My problems have been an anastomotic ulcer and an astimosis that do NOT want to heal. Lots of meds, lots of EGD's in the last few months, LOTS of throwing up for the last 15 months or so. I need it to be over.
Thanks for the "good thoughts" :)
GA
Georgia Kiley DiBenedetto
Georgia, you could try emailing Cindy at Cindy@.... Her
last name is Johnson. Good luck to you.
Cindy Newsom
Hey Cindy,
I'm waiting to hear back from Hargroder or Holly about my surgery next week. I REALLY need to know something TODAY, I tried calling the office and they won't put me through :(
Call my cell please (225) 288-3514
THANK YOU,
GA
Georgia Kiley DiBenedetto
Thanks, Cindy. I will call today. I'll make sure I have my ??'s in order first :)
I have an appt to see Hargroder Friday at 10:30am. Will see you then.
GA
Georgia Kiley DiBenedetto
Hello Christy
I know they only expect you to lose weight for 8 to 12 months and then you really have to work hard to get the rest off you are needing. It depends on the amount you need to lose as to how long you lose. I know I had the surgery in June of last yr I have lost 120 lbs and I have about 30 more to go and it is a struggle to get that off. I also know that alot of ppl that have the surgery gain a few lbs back at the end it is like they lose some extra and then gain some back but from what i understand that can be a normal thing. I would suggest just watching what you eat and drink drink drink and as much exercise you can stand
Good luck
Sue Barothy
sbarothy35@...
Sorry, I also forgot to mention that I have about another 80 - 100
pounds to go to get to my requested healthy weight......
Thanks, Christie
Hello,
My name is Tanya and I had the surgery 2 years ago and have lost over
180 pounds. My whole life is different and I am so grateful for the
surgery.
I also teach a class at the Butterfly Effect called Shameless Beauty.
It is about my core beliefs about my image and the emotional side of
transforming my body. If you are interested, you are welcome to check
out my website, www.soulsdesire.org
I review a method for discovering your belief system about your body
and or money or any other "block" you feel that you have and then help
you to shift to the belief that you desire.
Let me know if you have any other questions.
Tanya
I have a question, about a year and 1/2 ago, I had the Gastric Surgery.
To date, I have lost 150, but for the past few months, have been at a
stand still with my weight. Also, the past 2 months, I have even gain
almost 15 pounds back! I am getting worried. Does anyone have
suggestions as to what is going on or can advise....
Also, should I be eating something or doing something different......
Please help..... don't want to go back to the way I was and I feel I
might be the only person having this problem..........
Thanks, Christie
First of all, men ALWAYS loose faster than women, so don't compare
yourself to your husband. Secondly, a lot of us stall at about 3 weeks
and during that time you are loosing inches instead of pounds. Your
body is trying to catch up. If you take your measurements and document
them, when you stall, you can measure and see the reduction in inches.
Make sure your get your protein. Protein makes weight loss happen.
Also, it keeps your body from loosing muscle. It looses fat instead.
Cindy,
Are you the Cindy that works at Hargroder's office? Forgive me for not being able to keep up LOL
I have some questions I'd like to ask you off-list if you are and it's OK.
THANKS
GA
Georgia Kiley DiBenedetto
The last three weeks I haven't lost any weight. I'm only 6 weeks post-
op. My husband also had the surgery same day. Everyday he weighs
(maybe not everyday) and loses 4 or 5 pounds! It is driving me crazy. I
know he has more to lose,but 3 weeks and no loss. The first 3 weeks I
lost 28 pounds. Any suggestions? Thanks
They sell it at Wal Mart...most other grocery stores too, I think.
GA
Georgia Kiley DiBenedetto
Thanks Trish I'm heading to wal-mart again.
Where do you buy the hood milk?
I can't remember where I got it...maybe GNC? Try an online search...I usually have good luck with those.
Yes, it's called AnyWhey...and is the only one that I've found that is MOSTLY tasteless!
GA
Georgia Kiley DiBenedetto
Thank you Georgia, I'll try that. Diane
Georgia <georgiad40@...
I used to use (sorry, got sick of it :) :
One scoop of Any Whey
1 tbl frozen concentrate OJ
2 splendas
Ice
yogurt (i used vanilla)
Whipped it up in my Magic Bullet blender, sometimes with strawberries, but my tummy doesn't like them all the time...!
ga
Georgia Kiley DiBenedetto
I used to use (sorry, got sick of it :) :
One scoop of Any Whey
1 tbl frozen concentrate OJ
2 splendas
Ice
yogurt (i used vanilla)
Whipped it up in my Magic Bullet blender, sometimes with strawberries, but my tummy doesn't like them all the time...!
ga
Georgia Kiley DiBenedetto
Thanks Edie, this surgery has made such a difference in my life..I feel like I
can really enjoy it now instead of letting it pass me by..
Hugs Penny
Velvet I am so sorry to hear you are in so much pain. You are in my prayers.
Hugs
Marianne
Breast Cancer Patients Soul Mates for Life
http://www.geocities.com/chucky5741/breastcancerpatients.html
Anxiety Depression and Breast Cancer
In speaking with Cindy today at Dr. Hargroders' office, she suggested
that I ask the group on recipes for the protein shake. Right now I'm
only using skim milk, ice, banana and the protein. All suggestions
will be appreciated.
Thanks, Diane
is it called AnyWhey? where can i get it from??
thanks
Kayla,
Try AnyWhey powder...you can mix it into ANYTHING, hot or cold, and it doesn't add a taste...
GA
Georgia Kiley DiBenedetto
has anyone tried a tasteless protein powder? or is there even such a
thing? i am drinking the optimum nutrition whey powder right now. it is
okay, but not great. i am curious to see if anyone can recommend a
tasteless powder. that way i could add it to whatever. i am almost four
weeks post-op and still get very weak and tired easily... i know i need
to drink more protein, but i just cant seem to find anything that i can
stand to drink that often.
any help would be greatly appreciated!!
OK, did a little search this AM...thank GOD for the internet, right? I found the Health Nut Hut on Coursey carried OptiPro. I'm not sure about the pricing, but I'll head over there at lunch and see...
Can someone who uses OptiPro tell me if it's a WHEY or SOY protein, please?
Thanks,
GA
Georgia Kiley DiBenedetto
I'm drinking the atkins chocolate royal this morning not bad. Thanks
you guys for the tip. I guess I'll look for the muscle milk today.
Tomorrow will be three weeks post op. I think I'm going to make it. I
had the gastric sleeve and everyone I know who had it said it was a
breeze of a surgery. What I say to them is put down the crack pipe! The
meds given to me had the opposite effect on me. The pain meds had me
wired and awake . And nothing helped with the nausea I dry heaved for
four days and four nights. I was a miserable person I kept asking
everyone if I was green. My husband had the surgery the same day and
slept the whole time! Did anyone have a similiar experience or am I
just weird?
Terry,
Do you use both the Muscle Milk and Optipro hot? I work very close to the Vitality on Coursey...I would like to go get some Optipro.
Thanks,
GA
Georgia Kiley DiBenedetto
I found that the Atkins was good to me at first, but then they started
tasting chalky. I tried several different drinks, but finally found
Muscle Milk. It is creamy and comes in several flavors. I use the
Muscle Milk Lite which has 20 grams of protein. YUMMMMM!
Just like any incision --- I wouldn't expose the incisions to sun (or the effects of tanning) unless you want the scar to be more prominent later. Congrats on your surgery -- best of luck to you and welcome to the loosing side of life. :-)
Joanne,
I am sure you are right about the co-dependency still trying to run my
life. It is so very confusing to me still. I have a guy online now that is
a bit younger than I am and wants to meet but I do not want to yet and told
him so. I am still too raw and he is rushing into things too fast. I just
hope when the time is right that I will be able to meet someone again. I
just do not want to get hurt again. I know it is a fact of life but a fact
I do not want right now. I guess I am in a "safe house" so to speak and
besides, I am not stable enough in my own life to even think about being
with another right now. Maybe the thought of my EX is getting in my way
too. All I know is I am having some wild dreams lately and not just about
my current EX but my other husbands too. I am not sleeping through the
night again even taking sleeping pills. I am usually awake between 4 and 5
am and have a really tough time falling back asleep and then when I do, it
is time to get up.. lol.
I know part of this is stress from needing a job and paying my bills. I am
meeting with the legal aid about my tax problems tomorrow morning and
hopefully get that part resolved or at least part of it.
I will look for an al-anon meeting close by and go as soon as possible to
see if it will help me clear my head. Thanks for the advise and support. I
appreciate it.
--
Mary in FL
LAP RNY 1/26/2007
317/296/167/140
BS/ SW/CW/GW
I had my 2 week post op appointment today and forgot to ask when I
could go to the tanning bed. Does anyone know? Thanks!
Karen good luck to you and yes you will lose 50 by the wedding! I am about 13 weeks post op and have lost 70 to date. You will do fine. Your anxieties are normal - trust me we all have been through it. Follow the doctors directions to a tee and you will do fine. Best of luck to you! I had a RNY done also. Doc is great - in fact, my surgery only took 45 min!! Hang in..keep us posted and best of luck to your new life!
Cheryl
Hi...
I had my pre-op consultation Friday (Feb 1st) surgery is scheduled for
Feb 12th. I am excited, scared, nervous, and anxious. I am 41 years
old with 5 children.. ages 21 to 13 months. I just want to be able to
do things with my kids and my family.
My 21 year old is getting married on May 3rd and I hope to have lost at
least 50 lbs for her wedding. Do you think it is possible??
I would love to hear which procedure folks had, how much they lost and
how long it took them.
I am have the gastric bypass done.
Thanks in advance,
Karen
Alexandria, La
It is my understanding that when Vista was sold, all these bills were
sent out. No one owes anything. DO NOT PAY! Either your insurance has
already paid or you paid cash. I doubt anyone from the office will
post here, but we can all hope. Just don't worry about these bills.
No one is expected to pay these Vista bills.
Valerie,
I'm sorry this is taking sooo long for you. But wow 55 lbs on your own, you
ROCK, that's wonderful.
Great job and enjoy your vaca!,
Edie
Hi - I had my surgery done 10/31/07 and my friend had hers done 11/16/07 at Vista Surgical. As you know the hospital closed (or I heard it closed) and since then, we have both gotten bills in the mail. Mine for 1400 and her's for 3500! I had the RNY and she had the sleeve with NO complications. Mine I stayed in one extra night due to not breathing right (the drain was sitting on my diaphram) and the doc didn't want to come back to d/c me because he had a ball game with his kids so I stayed in one extra night. Has anyone gotten any extra bills since their surgery? Both our surgeries were paid IN FULL prior to the procedure. I'm trying to call Cindy at the office, but she hasn't returned my call yet. Thanks for your help, advice or any info you have.
Cheryl
Hello,
I had trouble with my cycle from the day after the surgery. I finally went on the patch. I had the standard bypass. The patch worked great. I assume the pill is not always as our absorbtion then becomes different. Check with you GYN and see what they suggest would be right for you. I finally had a tubal and ablation. But, I am 42 and that was right for me.
Hi Alexis,
I can't answer your question exactly, but I do know that when we have
this surgery, our harmones do get all screwed up. Holly told me that.
But I would contact Holly or the doctor about this issue. Or contact
your gynocologyst about it.
We have a support group meeting on Wednesday night. You might could get
your question answered them. Come and join us.
I have had the sleeve done on Jan 8. I am on the birth control pill.
Well since the surg. I have had my normal cycle then off for a week
then on again ever since. Has anyone else had a problem with there
menstrual cycle after surgery?
If you use Dr. Hargroder for your surgery or followup office visits,
call the day before your appointment to verify/confirm it. I have been
scheduled twice for a followup visit. The first time, my name wasn't
even on the schedule and the second time he was not seeing patients
that day but no one bothered to contact me to tell me that nor that
they had rescheduled my appointment for another day.
Just trying to save someone from going to a non-existant appointment.
Gas is just too expensive these days to have to waste it.
I just called the office to make sure where it's going to be.
The support group will now be held at on Wednesday nights @ 6pm at the
Women's Wellness Center at the corner of Jefferson and Bluebonnet. Go
in the door on the Jefferson side and there is a board room on the
left. Hope to see you there!
It's a great group of people! GUYS, just because it's held at the
Women's Center, doesn't mean you can't come. Please join us, you are
VERY welcome!
See you all there!
Group is back to Wednesdays starting Jan. 9th from 6-7 at the Woman's
Fitness center on the corner of Bluebonnet and Jefferson in Baton
Rouge.
See you all there!
I would like to add this post to clear up any negative thoughts my
original post may have caused.
There were many changes which took place in the above period for Drs.
Hargroder and Bellanger because of the closure of Vista Hospital.
Another surgical venue had to be located, another office location had
to be secured, the move had to take place, and on and on.
Among all these arrangements was of course the answering service
changes as well. When I called the answering service during my first
post op days (when I was not feeling well and very cranky!) I was
curtly told that the offices were closed till 1/2/08 and they had "the
# for an internist" for me to speak to. That angered me.
But it was far, far from accurate!!! The answering service had the
number for one of the SURGEONS (Dr. H or Dr. B). I spoke to Cindy at
Dr. H's office today who confirmed that they would NEVER have left
patients in a lurch without a surgeon to address their needs and
concerns.
And please note in another post, that I did in fact talk to Dr. B
during that time.
I have no doubt in the competence of Dr. H's and Dr. B's office and
practice. Please erase any negative opinions my initial post may have
left with you.
I will continue to recommend this practice to anyone who is interested
in weight loss surgery. I am grateful for having this opportunity.
Happy New Year to All!!!!!! I will have "an new ME" by the end of
2008! :)
Congrats on your procedure! I remember those days - and I'm only 7 1/2 weeks post op! I think I started the B-12 around this time (2 weeks). It sure wouldnt hurt! I take them every other day. Best of luck to you!
Cheryl
I cannot remember when we start the sublingual Vitamin B12. I am 2
weeks post op for vertical sleeve gastrectomy and I am feeling quite
wiped out right now.
Just wondering if I missed something in my post op instructions. I am
looking forward to solid food on Wednesday for Phase III of the diet.
But when do we start Vit B12?
Thanks.
Here is an email from Cindy that was sent out if it
helps any.
The new phone number is 225-743-2333.
The new address is 1014 St. Claire Blvd. Suite 1000 in
Gonzales.
If you go south on I10 from Baton Rouge, Get off at
the Tanger outlet
exit. Turn left. Turn right at St. Elizabet Hospital.
They are behind
the hospital in the Health Park, Suite 1000.
Hope this helps.
Here is another email from Cindy, hope it helps also.
Hargroder and Bellanger had to move because Vista
Hospital was bought
by LSU to use for overflow of Earl K Long surgeries.
The doctors
moved to Gonzales and will be doing surgery at St.
Elizabeth now.
That is why the Support Group moved.
oh wow i am sorry i didn't know that I just spoke with them the other day
Sue Barothy
sbarothy35@...
Susan: I got the info on his office closure from the answering
service which picked up in his Gonzales office. The Gonzales office
number is the one I used.
They are closed from now till 01/02/08.
Wow, that sucks! Can you leave a message with the answering service or something? I can't believe they'd go totally AWOL for that long!
I have no idea about how the VSG differs from the Roux-en Y, so I can't help you on that one...I know there are others out there who've had the same surgery you did.
Good luck and CONGRATULATIONS :)
ga
"janet.stangelo" <janet.stangelo@...
I had Vertical Sleeve gastrectomy on Tuesday, 12/18. As far as my
husband and I can remember, we were never told that we would not have
access to Dr. H's staff during the period from 12/20 to 1/2/08!!!
I have a question about esophageal pain on swallowing.....how to tell
if this is "stomach stretching pain" and other info I want from the
medical community.
My whole experience with Dr. H was very positive until today when I
learned they are out and cannot be readhed for information. I know
that he did at least 15 surgeries on Monday, Tues and Wed of this week.
When did he and his staff decide to close down without telling his
patients????
Or did everyone else get the message and I did not somehow?
Just a little perturbed by this turn of events, I guess. Wanted to
talk to Cindy or Holly. What a bummer!
Georgia Kiley DiBenedetto [INLINE]
Hi Janet,
I rarely read these messages anymore, but I am more
than 6 mo. post-op. I had the sleeve on March 28,
2007.
Jodie
I would like to contact someone who has had the sleeve done and who is
more than 6 months post op. I have some questions. Thanks.
The new phone number is 225-743-2333.
The new address is 1014 St. Claire Blvd. Suite 1000 in Gonzales.
If you go south on I10 from Baton Rouge, Get off at the Tanger outlet
exit. Turn left. Turn right at St. Elizabet Hospital. They are behind
the hospital in the Health Park, Suite 1000.
Hope this helps.
Hargroder and Bellanger had to move because Vista Hospital was bought
by LSU to use for overflow of Earl K Long surgeries. The doctors
moved to Gonzales and will be doing surgery at St. Elizabeth now.
That is why the Support Group moved.
Oh, the group isn't held at Dr. H's office anymore? Interesting...
Everyone have a very Merry Christmas!
GA
"Cindy N." <jus4tday@...
Hi everyone. I am posting this just in case some of you don't know.
The support group will be meeting tonight from 6pm to 7pm, in Baton
Rouge at Woman's Hospital, Physician's Tower, suite 330.
Next week, it will be held on TUESDAY night at the same place.
Christmas and New Years week, there will NOT be a meeting. It will
begin again the TUESDAY after New Year's Day. It will be held at the
same time and place listed above, but it will be on Tuesdays instead of
Wednesdays.
This will be the case throughout January.
Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year (loosing weight!)
Georgia Kiley DiBenedetto [INLINE]
Hi everyone. I am posting this just in case some of you don't know.
The support group will be meeting tonight from 6pm to 7pm, in Baton
Rouge at Woman's Hospital, Physician's Tower, suite 330.
Next week, it will be held on TUESDAY night at the same place.
Christmas and New Years week, there will NOT be a meeting. It will
begin again the TUESDAY after New Year's Day. It will be held at the
same time and place listed above, but it will be on Tuesdays instead of
Wednesdays.
This will be the case throughout January.
Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year (loosing weight!)
Congratulations on your upcoming surgery. The first
step to a new life. Dr. Hargroder is just an
excellent surgeon and you couldn't ask for better in a
physician's assistant than Holly.
I am Carolyn had RNY bypass July 17, 2006. Starting
weight was 400 pounds and today I am at 230. Best
decision I ever made for regaining my life.
This is a great support group and a great resource for
questions.
Again good luck and keep in touch.
Just in case you need another resource check out this
website:
http://www.obesityhelp.com/
Carolyn
Hello Janet!
Congrats to you. I had the VSG too. Two months ago today! and I have
Hello Brenda. Congrats, we are now sitting on the loosers bench
together. I too, have a problem with dry mouth. You can chew sugar free
gum, or suck on SF hard candy. It helps some. I also sip on water
constantly. Good luck to you!
I am new here; just became a member. Am looking forward to a sleeve
gastrectomy on 12/18 -- one week from today!! Looking forward to a
new life. So grateful for this opportunity! Just wanted to say Hi.
Just keep sipping your water, Crystal Light, etc., constantly throughout the day. Right now you are not able to get in enough fluids at any one time, so you have to continuously sip, sip, sip.
Linda
Brenda <cebren25@...
Hello everyone! My gastric bypass surgery was on November 26th. I am
now 12 days post-op. I went to my post-op appt. on yesterday and I am
down 16lbs. YIPPEE!!! I am having the biggest problem with dry mouth
though. Does anyone have any suggestions?
Linda [INLINE]
Thank you!
Hello everyone! My gastric bypass surgery was on November 26th. I am
now 12 days post-op. I went to my post-op appt. on yesterday and I am
down 16lbs. YIPPEE!!! I am having the biggest problem with dry mouth
though. Does anyone have any suggestions?
You may need to ask the nurses regarding this issue. But, if you use them, I would ask if a Tampon is ok? You don't need panties for that......Good Luck
Brenda <cebren25@...
Okay, I have a slight problem. My surgery is being rescheduled when it
will be my "time" of the month.
What am I supposed to do? Can I wear underwear during the surgery? Will
I be able to shower?????
I need to know what to expect for my hospital stay!
Please help!
Thanks,
Brenda
Okay, I have a slight problem. My surgery is being rescheduled when it
will be my "time" of the month.
What am I supposed to do? Can I wear underwear during the surgery? Will
I be able to shower?????
I need to know what to expect for my hospital stay!
Please help!
Thanks,
Brenda
Hi - I'm 7 days post op now with my gastric bypass. Is it normal to still feel sore in the upper abdomen?? Not hurt - but REAL tender! I"m ready to get back to 100% but I know time will heal. I"m just so impatient! I couldn't do the protein liquid stuff. Holly told me I could start drinking the Edge malts that have 17 gm protein in it. I've drank 4 so far today (all I could put in)! Anyway - just sore and belly feels swollen -- other than that I feel great. Do any of you remember a week post op how you felt??
Cheryl
YIPEE -- Holly just called me back and said I can progress to phase 2 drinks to get the protein down if I wasn't having any other problems!! Yipee!! No more New Whey!! I'm home free...........:-) well......almost
Cheryl
HELP ANYONE OUT THERE,
MY NAME IS DIANE H. I HAD GASTRIC BYPASS JULY 20, 2005. I NEED A BREAST REDUCTION OR LIFT. I HAVE TRIED TO GET DR. ELIZABETH CLUBB, BUT SHE CANT EVEN CONSULT WITH ME UNTIL MARCH. I HAVE RECENTLY LOST MY JOB OF EIGHT EIGHT YEARS. IN MY SEVERANCE, THEY WILL CONTINUE TO PAY MY INSURANCE UNTIL DEC 31, 2007 ,I HAVE THE OPTION, IF I CAN COME UP WITH THE 540.00 A MONTH PAYMENT ON COBRA PLAN FOR ANOTHER YEAR. I HAD TO PAY CASH FOR MY SURGERY WITH DR. HARGRODER AS THE INSURANCE CARRIER DIDNT THINK THAT MY STARTING WEIGHT OF 363 WAS NECESSARY, IF YOU CAN BELIEVE THAT. I AM HOPING TO GET THEM TO PAY FOR MY BREAST SURGERY. CAN ANY OF YOU RECOMMEND ANYONE ELSE TO ME THAT MAYBE I CAN SEE A.S.AP.? I NEED SOME LEADS, I AM LOST AS TO WHAT TO DO OR WHO TO TURN TO. I WOULD APPRECIATE ANY INCOME ANY OF YOU CAN GIVE ME.
SINCERELY,
DIANE H.
Thanks Linda! I really do appreciate the encouragement! Right now I
am feeling every emotion imaginable. Excitement, nervousness, etc...
I am going to try to stay focused on the positive ones! I am looking
forward to finally LIVING again!!!
Sincerely,
Brenda
Brenda,
You have to realize that you are embarking on a new journey, a new way of thinking, eating and living (emphasis on the LIVING part!) It is not a cop-out or the easy way out. When we make this decision, we are showing how brave, smart and strong we are, because we WANT that better quality of life not only for ourselves, but for our families. And we are willing to take the steps to make it finally happen. Your only regret likely will be that you didn't do it sooner!
Good luck to you,
Linda
cebren25 <cebren25@...
I have to admit that I am starting to get a little scared now. I really
do not want to voice that to my family b/c I do not want them to worry.
I keep acting like everything is fine and I am not worried in the
least. Now my surgery is a few days away and I'm getting more and more
nervous.
I keep wondering why I can not be strong enough to do this on my own
without the surgery. I kinda feel like a failure for not being able to.
I want a better life! I want to be more active and healthy! But I have
not been able to do it. It makes me sad.
I feel excited envisioning a new life. I want that not only for me but
for my husband and children as well.
Thanks for listening! I guess I just need a place to vent and sort out
all of these feelings.
~Brenda
Linda [INLINE]
I have to admit that I am starting to get a little scared now. I really
do not want to voice that to my family b/c I do not want them to worry.
I keep acting like everything is fine and I am not worried in the
least. Now my surgery is a few days away and I'm getting more and more
nervous.
I keep wondering why I can not be strong enough to do this on my own
without the surgery. I kinda feel like a failure for not being able to.
I want a better life! I want to be more active and healthy! But I have
not been able to do it. It makes me sad.
I feel excited envisioning a new life. I want that not only for me but
for my husband and children as well.
Thanks for listening! I guess I just need a place to vent and sort out
all of these feelings.
~Brenda
I am really sorry that you have been so ill. I hope it is not a result of your surgery.
I too, have had some problems sense my surgery. Like you, I will never regret having the surgery but to me, it is still a struggle.
I am two and half years out. I suffer with acid reflux and have had very bad pain in my lower back.. It feels like my tail bone is broken. I have had an MRI and nothing shows.
My diabetes has also been a bit of a problem. Mostly in that I get low sugars.
To me these problems are not so bad.I think I would probably be dead if I had not had the surgery.
One disappointment was that I have made two appts to go in and see Dr. H. Both times the office called me and cancelled them and wanting me to reschedule. The first time I understood but the second time, really made me mad. I have to rework my schedule too.
It is impt for people to understand that this surgery is just the tool. This is a life time change. You have to play by the rules that your body sets up for you. You will be different from the other person that has had the same surgery.
My ortho doctor said that people who have wt loss surgery have a hx of problems with real low back pain. I have never heard of this!
My family doctor told me that my diabetes would be greatly improved but that I would not be cured of diabetes. He told me that it has a way of sneaking back and that I would need to watch it. He was correct. But I am still controlling it by diet and am not on medicines.
I never had acid reflux before and I sure have it now. I take nexium twice a day and I still chew on tums. This may or may not be as a direct result of my surgery. I am 56 years old. Who knows.
My Mom always told me the getting old was not for sissys!
I hope that you get well soon. I can't imagine being sick with nausea and vomiting for so long. I wonder what is causing it.
Jean
hello all.....
i hardly ever reply to the messages, but i do enjoy hearing from you guys. i have been sick now for the last 2 wks, upset stomach, nauseous, can't keep anything in me. Throwing up or diarrhea. i had my surgery 3/30/05 almost 3 yrs ago.
i went to the doctor, and he seems to think its a paralyzed colon or gallstones, so i had an ultra sound on Friday and will get results hopefully on Monday. although, i have no regrets of having the surgery i have been seriouly sick a few times with epstein barr, hernia, and now this...uggghhh!!!!
Thanks for any and all feed back......have a good day~
Alisa [INLINE]
[INLINE]
Bubba -- thanks so much for emailing me. I had surgery on Wednesday and let me tell you it was no cake walk! They send you to icu for one night then to the ward. I had to stay an exra day because my 02 sat wouldn't say up. Its hell getting old....lol but its behind me now and like it or not, I don't have a choice to continue. I actually do feel better by walking however I have my doubts abut this protein stuff. The isopure taste horrible I did get the New Whey down. Its clear liquids not for the net 10 days - after which I can start with the protein shakes etc I'm falling asleep writing th is so I will email when I'm not drugged up. Took some lortab earllier. Thanks so much for your encouragement - I sure need it about now!
Cheryl
I just had surgery in June I remember what it was like uncomfortable. not painful. I didn't once have to use my pain meds at all. I was up walking as soon as I got out of ICU. I came home a 2 days after surgery and walked as much as i could It is not bad at all I don't have the biggest pain threshold but this was not bad at all and the day before surgery is the hardest when it comes to eating cause you are on the liquid but after surgery you are not going to want to eat so that is not bad you will want to drink alot more and that is where you sip sip sip.
Good luck and you will be fine
Susan
OK - down to 6 days now......I'm ready ( I think) because people are scaring me. Telling me---- I ONLY think I'm prepared. You don't know what its like not to eat, drink, etc. Telling me its going to hurt like hell, etc. Can someone actually describe the first few days post op and then the first few days at home post op? I need to know exactly what I should expect because I'm thinking the worse now! Thanks. :-)
Cheryl
In six days you begin a brand new life - one like you have always
wished you had - the surgery was a breeze - I never had any pain or
discomfort from the surgery. In fact I was elated because it was
finally done and over with. The first week at home is unpleasant
because your stomach is still healing and the protein sucked - but
only get the protein you can and don't beat yourself up if it is not
the high amounts you are striving for. Just take the meds Dr.
Melancon gives you to heal your stomach and you will feel better very
soon. The second week I ate yogart and that seemed to help in
heeling my stomach so it felt much better - once I passed the first
week life really begins and it only gets better. Every day and every
week you will be so proud and feel so good - as far as eating if you
miss the social part - go to the dinners with other and if necessary
bring something to eat or just get a meal eat what you want and bring
the rest home for another 3 meals. I weighed 360lbs and i'm down to
220lbs - my goal was 200lbs so i'm very close but I would like to
lose at least 40 more lbs. I had surgery Aug 2, 2006. Good luck on
your adventure.
hello
It does take a while to adjust to sipping instead of drinking a whole glass. That is honestly the only thing I miss about pre surgery. I had my new life given to me on the 25th of June and I was always a big snacker. I have no desire to snack or eat I have to be reminded to eat. Now drinking I always have something in my hands to drink but food just don't appeal to me anymore. I did the last thing week as well. but I have found that in time it is not really the last when my family has a hamburger I have the patty, when they have pizza I have the toppings. I don't eat the bun or the breads when they go to have chinese I have shrimp off of the buffet. It really isn't your last anything but the for the first few months you are on a strict diet cause of your pouch adjusting. But it is great on this side of life.
Susan
73lbs lost since 25th of June
Yep..surgery in 10 days. Something clicked on me after thinking about it for a LONG time and I am ready - ready for the second half of my life. I'm 48, miserable with myself (fat) and actually looking forward to the surgery. Not worried about the pain (tell me that after I guess), not even worried about the surgery itself because being a nurse myself, I KNOW the dangers of the operation. Therefore I will not look at the grievance part of the blog until months after the surgery. :-) My MAIN concern in drinking. I can drink drink drink now-------and I love juice! I love milk. I am consantly drinking NOW large glasses - how will I accomplish this after? How do you stop from drinking a whole glass to sips every 15 min? LIke I said, I'm 10 days out - and having my 'last' of everything. Last pizza, last burger, last chinese, last tampicos, last marguarita..........Is that normal??? I don't think I will regret this as I have to do something - and I'm looking forward to
what I will look like in a year. I told them t his year I'm visiting them as a pumpkin (I'm having surgery on halloween. Next year, I'll come back and visit as a skeleton. LOL...Any Any advice you can give me to make the transition easy will be appreciated. I'll be home the first week post op -- and you know how being home used to be...snack snack snack. Will I even be tempted to do this? I doubt it, but just curious. Thanks!
Cheryl
OK - down to 6 days now......I'm ready ( I think) because people are scaring me. Telling me---- I ONLY think I'm prepared. You don't know what its like not to eat, drink, etc. Telling me its going to hurt like hell, etc. Can someone actually describe the first few days post op and then the first few days at home post op? I need to know exactly what I should expect because I'm thinking the worse now! Thanks. :-)
Cheryl
According to Holly, the Physician's Assistant for Dr. Hargroder, you
can't drink too much water. However, Milk will have to wait a couple
of weeks after surgery (then skim or low fat only) and juice is
discouraged, especially citrus.
Yes, it's very normal to have your 'last suppers' so to speak. I did
that too. But since my surgery, I really have not craved the things I
would normally be craving before surgery. I had my surgery 10 days
ago. The first week is not really easy, but if you do everything they
tell you and do it exactly, you will not have a problem. You are NOT
tempted to snack on things we can't have. You will have clear liquids
and SF Jello, SF popcycles. You will also be focused on getting in
the proper amount of protein drink, you won't have the need nor
desire for other things. The New-Whey Liquid Protein is pretty good.
It's only 3 ounces and has 42 grams of protein. You will need 40 to
60 grams of protein a day.
Hope this helps.
What happened?
Hello, I thought I would also send the details of the services. Georgia called and got this information.
Monday 22nd- Wake-Rabenhorst Funeral Home 5:00 - 9:00 PM
Tuesday 23rd- Viewing Our lady of Mercy Church 1:00 - 2:00 PM
Mass at 2:00 PM
Burial at Green Oaks Cemetary immediately following
I do not know the cause of death. However, she had surgery 1 month before I did in November of 2003. She did have some other health issues. I hope to know more later in the week.
Dear Friends,
I am sending this with great sadness.
I was advised Friday evening, that Cherie passed away Friday afternoon at her home. I do not know the details of her passing.
I was waiting for information regarding services before sending anything to the groups. I only have minimal information.
Her services will be held at Rabenhorst Funeral Home on Florida Blvd. They have not made the service arrangements yet. You can reach the funeral home at 225-272-9950 for additional information. I talked to the funeral home earlier today and they expected to have the information on the services later this afternoon.
Sincerely,
Trish Bump
Yep..surgery in 10 days. Something clicked on me after thinking about it for a LONG time and I am ready - ready for the second half of my life. I'm 48, miserable with myself (fat) and actually looking forward to the surgery. Not worried about the pain (tell me that after I guess), not even worried about the surgery itself because being a nurse myself, I KNOW the dangers of the operation. Therefore I will not look at the grievance part of the blog until months after the surgery. :-) My MAIN concern in drinking. I can drink drink drink now-------and I love juice! I love milk. I am consantly drinking NOW large glasses - how will I accomplish this after? How do you stop from drinking a whole glass to sips every 15 min? LIke I said, I'm 10 days out - and having my 'last' of everything. Last pizza, last burger, last chinese, last tampicos, last marguarita..........Is that normal??? I don't think I will regret this as I have to do something - and I'm looking forward to
what I will look like in a year. I told them t his year I'm visiting them as a pumpkin (I'm having surgery on halloween. Next year, I'll come back and visit as a skeleton. LOL...Any Any advice you can give me to make the transition easy will be appreciated. I'll be home the first week post op -- and you know how being home used to be...snack snack snack. Will I even be tempted to do this? I doubt it, but just curious. Thanks!
Cheryl
And for the desire to CHEW, Dr. Hargroder said we can chew SF gum.
That helps with thirst as well.
Hi,
Congratulations!! I think that being anxious and nervous about the procedure is
normal. I know that I sure was. I waited almost a year and a half before I
made the decision to see Dr. Hargroder. Then it took me a while to make the
decision to have the RNY procedure. Knowing what I know now, I wish I wouldn't
have waited so long and I guarantee you that If I had to do it again, I wouldn't
hesitate for a moment. Going from 359# down to 172# has dramatically changed my
life. I do things now with my family that I would have never dreamed of doing
before. No more watching from the sidelines for me. I always tell people that
my surgery day was the first day of my new life.
Good luck and I'll keep you in my prayers.
--
Jamie P. Ordoyne
nucmanofbr@...
www.nucmanofbr.com/gastricbypass
Hi,
I had my pre-op appointment yesterday and my surgery is scheduled for
Monday Oct 15th. I had an anxiety attack yesterday after my
appointment and I was told to come to this group. I guess I am just
really nervous about this huge change in my life.
I finished all my pre-op stuff today and have the go-ahead from all
doctors. I am excited and scared to death all at the same time. My
surgery for the vertical sleeve is scheduled for next thursday, October
11th. Keep me in your prayers please.
Congratulations on your new lease on life! I will keep you in my prayers for a quick and speedy recovery.
Debbie Brunet
Hello,
My name is Kelly. I had gastric bypass January 11th of this year
by Dr. Hargroder. I've lost 104lbs and I'm doing wonderful. It's the
best thing I've ever done. :) Hope everyone is doing well.
Hello Bubba
Just making sure this is working as well
Susan
bubbabear_011 <bubbar@...
I am not sure why but it seems my responses to the post are not going
thru using "REPLY" I am posting this one throught the website. lets
see if this works.
Congratulations to the newbies
Talk to you Lighter
Bubba
Sue Barothy
sbarothy35@...
I am fairly new to the group too and this is my first post. Welcome to
Georgette. Hope everything goes well for you. I am having the Vertical
Sleeve done and am very excited about it.
Tina, thank you for chatting with me today. You lifted my spirits.
Cindy
I am not sure why but it seems my responses to the post are not going
thru using "REPLY" I am posting this one throught the website. lets
see if this works.
Congratulations to the newbies
Talk to you Lighter
Bubba
Hi I'm new at this I'm having my surgery 10/22/2007 I'm doing lap band.
Congratulations on your decision. You are in the best
hands ever! Good luck and keep in touch.
Carolyn
RNY 7/17/06
400#/233#
--- georgetteturchiarelli
Carolyn
I know this might sound crazy but do you think that it can be we have been heavy for so long and then losing the extra cushion on the backside just makes sitting more sensitive.
I am not far enough post op to have this problem yet
But just a thought.
Susan
Get a sneak peek of the all-new AOL.com.
Sue Barothy
sbarothy35@...
For the past two years I have suffered with pain when I place to much pressure and sometimes any pressure on my tail bone. I usually have to sit with my weight distributed more on my left or right side and cannot sit straight up and I cannot lean back in a chair.
I have been to an ortho doctor and he says he has seen this in other people who have lost a lot of weight. I have never seen it addressed before and wondered if anyone else suffers with this?
My MRI showed nothing. I have never fallen or remember any time that I may have hurt myself.
Long car trips and even plane trips are difficult and I usually end up having to take something for the pain.
I am over two years out from my surgery with Dr. Hargroder. I was 268lbs.. I now weigh 152.
I will never be sorry that I had this surgery. It saved my life.
Jean
I am almost 4 months out (57# down) from the Vertical Sleeve
operation which I decided to do after researching the cost and long-
term complications of all the operations. One thing I learned is
first that you can sabotage any operation by not eating right (ie.
ice cream shakes etc.). Also, that the pouch does get bigger after
time...with the gastric bypass and also with the sleeve...if you
continue to push it. I think the rules that applied in the beginning
may need to be tried again if the weight starts coming back on--
especially protein first, 64 oz of water and getting exercise 5 days
a week or more. Also, if the head hunger and emotional issues are a
problem then therapy as well as support groups are important. In
addition to surgery support on Wed. night, there are local
Overeater's Anonymous meetings that can help. I personally have to
do all of the above to make progress! Hope that helps :).
Jodie
Susan,
You will have little plateaus all along the way. Your body is just trying to figure out what's going on! And 30 pounds in the first month? Whew! You are rockin and rollin! Don't worry, you will start losing again. Just do your part (water, protein and exercise), and your body will do its part.
As far as being sick to your stomach in the morning, maybe you can try what people do when morning sickness hits: have a saltine cracker first thing, and maybe it will settle your stomach. Just a thought, worth a try. Let us know how you do.
Linda
sbarothy35 <sbarothy35@...
Hello everyone
I have a few concerns and I wanted to get someones advice that has
been where I am at this point.
First I had surgery on the 25th of June so I am almost a month post
op I have lost 30 lbs but all of the sudden in the last week I have
not lost nothing I know you can hit a point where you don't lose
anything but I was not expecting to hit it this soon
The other thing I wake up in the morning and I am very sick to my
stomach. I don't want to drink or eat cause I feel so bad It has
happened for the last 3 mornings. As the day goes by I feel somewhat
better not not completely. I am not in any major pains or anything
just feel sick to my stomach. Has anyone else experienced this???
Thanks in advance for your advice
Susan
Linda [INLINE]
Hello everyone
I have a few concerns and I wanted to get someones advice that has
been where I am at this point.
First I had surgery on the 25th of June so I am almost a month post
op I have lost 30 lbs but all of the sudden in the last week I have
not lost nothing I know you can hit a point where you don't lose
anything but I was not expecting to hit it this soon
The other thing I wake up in the morning and I am very sick to my
stomach. I don't want to drink or eat cause I feel so bad It has
happened for the last 3 mornings. As the day goes by I feel somewhat
better not not completely. I am not in any major pains or anything
just feel sick to my stomach. Has anyone else experienced this???
Thanks in advance for your advice
Susan
Hi Susan!
Nice to meet you, so to speak.
Sounds like your weight loss is going great so far! WOW! I didn't lose
that fast, even in the beginning, but everyone is different. I am
almost 11 months out, and have lost 126 lbs. I have just been
maintaining for the past couple of months. But I am soo much better off
than I was before. Lots healthier and happier. I'm about 20 lbs away
from where I want to be, but I will get it off. Congratulations on
making this decision, and best of luck to you. I tell ya, if you
haven't already experienced a little low patch.. don't be surprised if
you get a little down, or emotional at times around this stage. For me,
I got pretty emotional. A little scary. But I got thru it and it was
all well worth it in my case. Take care and be blessed, and as Bubba
would say, see you lighter!
Amy
Well I wanted to introduce myself My name is Susan and I live in
Prairieville and I have the RNY on June 25 at Vista in Baton Rouge. I
have been considering surgery for along time. I was approved for
surgery before we moved from DC a few yrs ago but after moving here in
05 I had to go through finding a new Dr. here in La. I am doing
well. I have alot 30 lbs since surgery I know it will slow down and
I am ok with that. I have 2 wonderful girls and a husband I have been
with for 17 yrs. I have been overweight most of my life but really
gaining the lbs in the last 15 yrs after having kids and going through
a hystroctomy.
Looking forward to getting to know everyone
Susan
Hi Susan,
Congratulations on your surgery and the weight you have lost so far.
My name is Bubba. I am from Prairieville also. I had surgery 8/26/03 and lost 142 lbs. It has been the best thing I have ever done for myself. If I can help in any way please feel free to call my cell number is 225 772 7307.
Allen "Bubba" Randall
RED STICK Realty
8506 Airway Drive
Baton Rouge, LA 70806
Cell (225) 772-7307
Phone: (225) 924-3311
Fax: (225) 924-3318
Putting together your Louisiana Purchase
margaret, i didn't have lapband, but i did want to tell you about the support group meeting that Dr. hardgroder has on Wednesday nights at his office. Call his office to get more info....
good luck...alisa
Are you interested in Buying or Selling??? call Alisa Walley for your Real Estate needs........
........call me at 225-202-2723
P.S. I LOVE REFERRALS!!!!!!
I am new to this whole groups thing, so I hope I am doing this right.
I have been approved for Lapband Surgery with Dr. Hargroder and was
wondering if there was anyone out there that had this procedure and
might give me some information on it. I have lots of questions so I
guess any general information you could offer would probably help.
RE:
--- I had the circumfirential tummy tuck in Sept 05 and the breast
lift in March 06. My results are absolutely stunning, better than I
could have dreamed of!
Linda
LINDA, HOW WAS THE RECOVERY FOR YOU AFTER EACH OF THESE SURGERIES? I
WONDER IF THEY COULD DO THEM AT THE SAME TIME? I WOULD LIKE TO GET
THESE DONE BY EARLY NEXT YEAR & SURE WISH I COULD DO THEM AT THE SAME
TIME. IF YOU WOULDN'T MIND MY ASKING, COULD YOU EMAIL ME, AND GIVE ME A
BALLPARK FIGURE ON THE COST OF WHEN YOU HAD YOURS DONE?
(kickbackfan@...) I'M GOING TO HAVE TO PAY OUT OF POCKET TOO. :(
BUT I FEEL IT WILL BE WELL WORTH IT. I AM 10 MOS OUT NOW, & HAVE LOST
130 LBS. I WANT TO LOSE ABOUT 20 MORE BEFORE I AM READY FOR THE TUMMY
TUCK. THAT WOULD PUT ME AT 130, and I'm just 5'2", so I think that
would be really great.
CONGRATS ON YOUR SUCCESS & MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU!
Take care! Amy
Judy/Terri,
When I first started with a group....not this one, that other one...I
too felt left out. I posted a question and no one replied. I waited
a day or two and finally blew my top, asking why I was ignored.
Immediately a bunch of replies came. No one knew the answer to my
question, so no one replied. That made sense to me once I knew the
answer but I was irritated. I decided to try to make sure that no
one's question goes without some sort of reply. I look at the end of
the post to see if there have been any replies, if none, I try to
make sure I at least acknowledge the post and say something
encouraging. I learned my lesson about making others feel like they
are part of this group.
Even recently, I encourgaged someone on here and she acknowledged
everyone but me. Being emotional I wondered if maybe she decided
that if "she couldn't say something nice, don't say anything at
all." I was hurt. Turned out she just missed my post. In our
mental states it's easy to jump to the wrong conclusions, and
although I am always aware that can happen from something I post, I
am always willing to apologize or correct the mistake.
So sorry Judy, Terri, Lora and anyone else who has felt ignored. I
will try to do better.
Lizanne
CONGRATULATIONS LINDA!
CAN YOU SHARE SOME INFORMATION ABOUT THE SURGERY YOU ARE HAVING. I NEED, SO, SO BADLY TO HAVE SOMETHING DONE ABOUT MY LEGS. IT WOULD BE HARD FOR ME TO EXPLAIN HOW THEY LOOK. WHO IS DOING IT? ARE THEY AFFILIATED WITH DR. HARGRODER? IS YOUR INSURANCE COVERING IT?
I WILL BE PRAYING ALL WILL GO WONDERFULLY FOR YOU! WHEN YOU FEEL ABLE AND CAN ANSWER ME, I WOULD BE VERY GREATFUL,
THANKS,
DIANE H
Kelly,
CONGRATS!
It took me about 18 months before I could eat those things...and NOW at almost 4 years out I can't eat them anymore. I actually CRAVE salads and my stomach will not tolerate them...I'm bummed! LOL
I wouldn't try the celery for a long, long time...to much fiber for now I'd think.
Good luck,
Georgia
Kelly <nursekelly_83@...
I had gastric bypass 4 months ago. I was wondering how long after
Bypass with Dr. Hargroder was it before you could eat things like
celery and lettuce. I haven't tried either. I'm too scared to try them
without knowing how I'll handle them.
Georgia Kiley DiBenedetto [INLINE]
Hey guys,
Everybody must be having a busy summer, because nobody is posting
lately!
Well, I have been extremely busy at work, but I wanted to let y'all
know that I am going in for surgery tomorrow to have all the excess
skin removed from my legs. Every so often, I get a jolt of anxiety,
but I have been through this before, and always did so well. I know I
am in the best hands, too. I will finally feel like I look normal.
There just might be a butterfly in that cocoon after all......LOLOLOL!
Linda Brooks
RNY 09/2003
I had gastric bypass 4 months ago. I was wondering how long after
Bypass with Dr. Hargroder was it before you could eat things like
celery and lettuce. I haven't tried either. I'm too scared to try them
without knowing how I'll handle them.
Thanks to everyone for your posts and words of encouragement. It felt
good to get a little feedback and know I'm not alone in my struggles.
I'm pretty sure I am dehydrated, and that I'm mistaking thirst for
hunger, since I'm not drinking half of what I should be in a day.
Also not getting enough protein. Ugh. I really have to get myself back
on track and SOON.
Take care everyone!
Hugs,
Amy
Debbie,
I agree that Bubba can put things very "eloquently" as you say...but I don't have that gift for words, that's for sure. Just saying it how it is, so to speak. I know gaining 10 lbs. messes with your head...and I know that you probably did NEED to put it on. I did. I gained 10 when I was down way too low, EVERYONE tells me how much better I look (including my new man [INLINE] ) but I hate it...only because I hate the "numbers". I'm sure you're husband is not just saying that ou look better just to make you feel better. I love to exercise, but don't do it. I'm experiencing LARGE amounts of stress right now and dealing with a lot...things are pretty messed up in my life, BUT I'm very close to things getting better. I've kind of put off the exercise and other things I NEED to take care of, just to deal with my house, getting it sold, etc. I can relate to your Reese's habit...someone in our office keeps a huge basket loaded with those freaking miniatures and I'm up at that
basket 4-5 times per day damnit! My "drugs" these days are chocolate and the damned cigarettes. I keep telling myself I'll quit both when things settle down in my life...I hope that time comes soon!
I really wasn't prepared for these feelings and habits that have come back at almost 4 years out. I'm not sure we could have been prepared...this surgery was too new in this area for us to have many people to look to for advice. Most of the people around here who are farther out than us had their surgeries in other cities/states. I know it's helped me to read posts on other web groups where people are 5, 10 and 15 years out. They've been through the same things... all the things I'm experiencing right now others have dealt with and that helps me to feel better.
Not sure why I felt the need to "ramble" this morning...but, it makes me feel better I guess.
I hope everyone is doing well...I haven't seen any of my WLS friends in ages! Maybe we should set up a coffee date soon?
GA
debbie brunet <debbie.brunet@...
Hi All,
I wish I could say things as eloquently as some people like Bubba and Georgia but I cant so I will just get to the point. I am 4 yrs post-op. Ive lost all of my weight and then some but I have put on 10 lbs in one year and that bothers me a lot. I cant afford to gain anymore weight. I think its because I can consume more food now and Im eating too many sweets. I used to eat ½ of a Whopper Junior and throw the other half away. No fries and no soft drink. Now I eat ½ Whopper Junior and 1 hour later I eat the other half along with a hand full of fries. If I feel stressed I eat 4 Reeses peanut butter cup miniatures. That happens about 2 times a day. It may not sound like much but it adds up. I try to keep fresh fruit available to snack on but I dont always choose it. I dont like to exercise. I ride my bike with my granddaughter on week-ends when she visits. I sometimes think that the anti-depressants and pain meds that I take actually make me have mental cravings. If
I dont get a grip on this soon I could be in trouble. My husband says that he thinks I look healthier with the additional pounds but I think that hes just being kind. Like Bubba said..the GBS is a tool and its up to us to use it correctly. Thanks Bubba
Debbie Brunet
Hi Amy
Congrats on the weight you have lost so far. I am 3 yrs. and 8 months post-op. I lost 142 pounds and have been keeping it off.
Sometimes it seems we battle ourselves more than you would think after GBS. We get what I call mental cravings. But when that happens to me I try to outsmart my mind (if that makes sense). I keep sharp cheddar cheese in the fridge and when I get a those cravings I will have 3 or 4 slices of cheese and a couple of crackers. Cheese is a good source of protein so I am making a smart choice and beating my mind at its own game. That usually does it for me. Ok so I'm weird, but it works for me. We seem to all want to pick up some of those bad habits, we are still human, we just need to be sure not to over do them. I have taken a bite of a candy bar when my wife has one. But unlike it use to be, I have a bite and not a candy bar. I guess what I am trying to say is that we have to learn to control our minds not let our minds control us. Believe me I know that is easier said than done.
Maybe you can think of it like this. They tell us that GBS is a tool. Like any tool if you do not use it correctly it can hurt you. But if you use it correctly, have a subject to work on, use your mind, and some creativity you can make something beautiful. You have the tool and you are the subject, now make something beautiful.
I hope that doesn't sound too corny. I am just trying to draw a mental picture that might help.
Talk to you Lighter...
Bubba
Allen "Bubba" Randall
RED STICK Realty
8506 Airway Drive
Baton Rouge, LA 70806
Cell (225) 772-7307
Phone: (225) 924-3311
Putting together your Louisiana Purchase
Amy,
I relate TOTALLY to what you wrote. I am almost 4 years out, have lost all my weight (and then some) and can eat pretty much anything these days. I do the whole mindless eating thing as well...and I'm not exercising right now either. Now, I'm not at a point where I need to lose anymore, so being "stuck" at this weight is not necessarily a bad thing, but I don't want to start gaining either. I can eat candy all frickin' day long and not get sick. BUT, I do dump occasionally. And that hasn't stopped me from eating what I "shouldn't" be eating. I think so much of what we go through after this life saving surgery needs to be dealt with in counseling. At least I know I could benefit from a weekly session with someone who specializes in eating disorders. The same "issues" that got me fat and kept me that way for years are still here...now they keep me thin, sometimes too thin, and they haven't gone away obviously.
I don't have any advice for ya...just hoping that maybe knowing you're not alone will help in some way.
Feel free to email me personally if you like: georgiad40@...
Take care,
GA
7-31-03
330 starting weight
160 goal weight
145 present weight
5' 11" tall
Amy <kickbackfan@...
Hi everyone!
I am 9 mos post op today. So far, I have lost 116 lbs. I am about 30
lbs from my original goal, and 40 lbs from where I would now like to
see myself. I am still walking, but without going into great detail.. I
am managing to eat more calories in a day through sometimes mindless
eating.. bad food choices.. and I am having sugar cravings. I am just
maintaining at this point. No weight loss due to not burning off more
calories than I am eating. I still don't eat much at one time, but
unfortunately I do not get the dumping syndrome to essentially make me
stay away from foods with higher sugar content. Today I ate 5 Dove
Chocolates. What is wrong with me. I feel like I'm sinking back into
some of those old (bad) eating habits, and I have no support groups, no
one here close to help me stay focused. And I cannot and will not tell
my Mom about this, because she is a MAJOR worrier. Does anyone have any
suggestions for me.. or encouragement, just to help me regroup and
remember the bigger picture?
Georgia Kiley DiBenedetto [INLINE]
Hi everyone!
I am 9 mos post op today. So far, I have lost 116 lbs. I am about 30
lbs from my original goal, and 40 lbs from where I would now like to
see myself. I am still walking, but without going into great detail.. I
am managing to eat more calories in a day through sometimes mindless
eating.. bad food choices.. and I am having sugar cravings. I am just
maintaining at this point. No weight loss due to not burning off more
calories than I am eating. I still don't eat much at one time, but
unfortunately I do not get the dumping syndrome to essentially make me
stay away from foods with higher sugar content. Today I ate 5 Dove
Chocolates. What is wrong with me. I feel like I'm sinking back into
some of those old (bad) eating habits, and I have no support groups, no
one here close to help me stay focused. And I cannot and will not tell
my Mom about this, because she is a MAJOR worrier. Does anyone have any
suggestions for me.. or encouragement, just to help me regroup and
remember the bigger picture?
Are you sipping water all during the day? I did not get hungry but I kept a bottle of water with me all day and sipped it.
Bubba
Have you called Dr. Hargroders office?
Bubba
I'm one week post-op (VSG) and check in with the DR. tomorrow. I hope
this next phase is a bit more tolerable. I have even felt hungry, but
not sure if it is head hunger or not. My stomach kind of gurgles when
I eat and in-between some too. Considering I am eating so frequently,
albeit small amounts, I found it strange. The time I noticed the most
I may have stretched it out a bit longer between meals, don't recall
how long. Anyway, what do you guys do about head hunger? Is chewing
gum a big thing? Another person suggested that. I did a couple of
times the past week. I guess until I eat solids again I will probably
crave the chewing.
I am almost 3 months post-op from gastric bypass. I had to leave work
early today because of a severe migraine headache. I know that we're
only supposed to take certain medications after the surgery due to the
effect it has on the stomach. Before surgery I used to use Excedrin
Migraine which always worked well for me. Now I have no idea what to
take and just plain tylenol is not touching it. Please Help.