Courtney W.
July 29, 2005
Well, I leave at 4am for Biloxi, Mississippi. We're going on a family vacation, woo hoo! I'm so excited!!!
It's been a while since I've updated, sorry. I've been so busy with car problems, work stress and other insignifigant issues.
I want plastic surgery... badly. I keep thinking of ways I can pay for it. I think I finally figured out that what I need is a Sugar Daddy. If I new someone with that kind of money, I would probably ask for a loan, but the only people I know are poor... like me :( That's not entirely true, but it sure does feel like it. Maybe if I keep throwing money at the lottery I'll actually win it one day.
I have the worst luck in the world.
Other than that, I am at a total loss of 155 lbs. That means I weigh exactly HALF of what I used to weigh. At least the morning of surgery. I'm at 155 lbs (somestime is's 153 and sometimes it's 158). I go up and down a few pounds here and there. It sucks. I have been stuck at this weight for over 6 months now. I need to do something to get the ball rolling agian. WHAT CAN I DO??? After this vacation I am going to try to do an all liquid diet of some kind... for a few days to see if that will jump start my weight loss.
I want to get down to 135 lbs. But, I'd be happy at 140 lbs. Even 145 lbs. LOL. Then I will really want plastic surgery.
Any sugar daddy's out there???
May 27, 2005
Wow, it's been a long time... sorry! Well, I'm officially 3 years out as of May 21st. I can't believe it's been 3 years.
I had a very scary episode in November 2004 (the week of Thanksgiving). I started throwing up blood. Not just a little blood, pints of blood. I was in the hospital for about 5 days. Thanksgiving was spent staring at a wall mounted television and sipping broth. Yuck. It was a terrible and terrifying experience. I had to have 3 blood transfusions. The cause? It was a bleeding ulcer. Most likely brought on by my lifestyle. I was drinking socially and smoking - this is what I believe contributed 95% to my ulcer. So, I haven't had a cigarette since the Monday before Thanksgiving. That's over 7 months now. GO ME! And, I very rarely touch alcohol now. Occasionally I will have a glass of wine with my boyfriend but that's it. I'm too afraid to push it. Although, my doctor said no red sauces, nothing spicy and no citrus (acids). I haven't stuck to that 100%, but I do make a conscious effort. OH, and NO CAFFINE!! This does include Chocolate... and you know I have ignored that rule. But, what can I say. I'm a stupid human.
Other than that, I'm back at the gym as much as possible. Around 3-4 days per week. Not bad. My boyfriend and I have been going up to the local high school and running the track in the evenings. It's actually fun. I never thought I would say that.
Well, that's all for now. I have a new email address if anyone is interested. It's [email protected].
Take it easy.
Courtney
Open RNY 5/21/02
310/155/135
April 9, 2004
Well... it's my half birthday! Hahah, I'm 23 and 1/2! WOO HOO!!! I'm just being silly. Well, more exciting info since my last post... I'm officially divorced now. My ex and I were divorced on March 29. Woo Hoo! And, I'm down about 10 more pounds since my last post in January. YIPPIE!!! I'm about 165 give or take a few pounds here and there. It fluxuates.
I also have a boyfriend. I met him at work actually back in November, and I haven't looked back. He's just about everything I've ever wanted in a guy, of course every man needs SOME work, right ladies? :D
Thats about it for now. I'm still trying to make ends meet and get my life straight. Living back with my parents isn't easy, but we all get a long wonderfully!
I hope everyone is doing well here. I don't get to check this site as much as I would like to, but I'm going to try and make more of an effort. Take care all! :)
January 23, 2004
Ok... been a long time again... I know. I'm sorry! Things are going super well. I'm down 135lbs and about 30 lbs away from my goal of 145lbs. I need plastic surgery. Tummy tuck and 'bat wing' removal. I would also like a breast lift.
Other news, I'm getting a divorce. Actually, my soon-to-be ex and I filied this morning down at the city court house. It was pretty quick. We won't actually be divorced for another few months I'd imagine... with the paper work, etc. But, things are looking up. I've got a new boyfriend who I'm head over heels for and I've got new friends and a new life. I never imagined that things would be this good for me in my life. True, not every aspect in my life is wonderful, but are things really ever 100% wonderful? No, I don't think so. But, each day I thank God and feel so lucky that I was even given this chance. I'm the luckiest person in the world.
June 2, 2003
I know, I know! It's beel a long time. I'm sorry!!! But, things have been really hectic, it's amazing actually having a life now, who would've thunk!
Anyway, I'm down -114lbs now, I'm officially OUT of the 200's! It's so exciting! I haven't been under 200lbs since the 9th grade! It's amazing!
Well, I guess that's all for now... if any one has questions, please feel free to email me! [email protected]
December 9, 2002
Ok, it's been a long time! I know, I'm sorry. It's amazing how busy you become when you start losing weight. You start feeling better about yourself and want to do more things. Not because you have to, but because you WANT TO. It's awesome.
I'm down 83 lbs in just over 6 months. YIPPIE! I'm so happy! Less than 20 lbs until I hit the CENTURY club :) Thank god.
I have had some problems though. I think I have a hard time with Bile Salts. Too much in my intestines makes me have sever pain from spasms. It could also have been a reaction to the codine cough syrup I took. (All this happend this weekend). Anyway - to make a long story short, I was in the hospital Saturday after taking the codine. I was in so much pain I thought I was going to die. The ER doctor said that I'm producing too much stomach acid and that the inside of my stomach is like a 'skinned knee.' So, he gave me something called Protonix... it's like Nexium or Prilosec. Anyway, I have to take this stuff every day for my stomach to heal.
But, I was reading about someone having the same problems. Their pain was caused from a reaction to the large amount of Bile Salts in my small intestines. Since I do not havea gall bladder, this could be the cause. But, I'm going to the Doctor tomorrow... we'll see :)
September 19, 2002
HI EVERYONE!!!! Well, things are going well on my end. I'm down 62 lbs in almost 4 months. True, it should be more than that - but I haven't been exercising like I should. I'm finally getting more energy back - THANK GOD!!! I've gone from a size 26 to currently a size 20. I'm totally amazed... it's incredible. SORRY again for not keeping regular updates, I'm slacking big time. I'll try to be more regular.
August 29, 2002
Hello All! I know it's been a long time since I've updated. SORRY about that. BUT, I have been updating my webpage with new info and pictures quite regularly. The address is: http://www.awholenewlife.net
Anyway, not much to say - you can read my journal on my website... because I'd just be typing the same stuff here. Thanks for stopping by!
July 8, 2002
Ok ok ok - I know it's been a long time since I've updated my profile here at Obesityhelp.com but I have been keeping my personal web page updated.
So far so good - I'm doing really really well and havn't had many problems at all. (For More Info, Check Out My WebPage @ http://www.awholenewlife.net ).
May 21, 2002
Well, my day started like any other day, I over slept! I wanted to be on the road by 5:30 a.m. but I didn't wake up until 5:20! So, my husband and I were totally rushed. Amazingly we were only about 2 min. late to SouthPointe.
My husband dropped me off and I ran up the the 5th floor where my family was already waiting. I signed in and sat down. 2 min. later a nurse came in and tooke me off to the prep area. It wasn't time for final goodbyes yet. So, I go to this little room where I'm given a gown to wear and the nurse comes over to give me some pills. I had valume, pepcid and something else. Then, she gave me a shot of heperine in my stomache - that hurt like hell! After that, she took some blood because they had to 'verify' that I wasn't pregnant! I was like, Jesus! I hope I'm not because you've already stuck me and given me pills! Of course, I wasn't - and then they let my family come back.
After about 5 min. with my family, then lady came over and said 'Ok, lets go...' and I gave everyone hugs and went on my way. First stop, I had to weigh in... and the grand total was: 310.6 lbs. Holy Cow! After that I went to the waiting area where they put me in the bed with the little hat and the anestesiologist gave me my IV. That's about the last thing I remember.
The next thing I remember is waking up - and being in HORRIBLE pain. My family was there, so I guess I was already out of recovery. I was saying 'It hurts... it hurts...it hurts...' over and over again. My poor grandma started crying - I feel so bad! My parents were looking over at me holding my hands, telling me it was going to be ok. I found the morphine pump REAL quick! Then I discovered that I had an NG tube in my nose and I couldn't really feel the cathater too good. Thankg God! Then, my mom said, 'You didn't even go to the ICU, you're already in your own room!' That's good news! But, I didn't really care at the time. I kept telling them to put me back to sleep - they didn't.
The rest of the day is king of a blur, I know my husband stayed with me the whole time - even spent the night on what I imagine was the most uncomfortable bed in the world! I just love him - thank you honey!
May 22, 2002
The next day was much better. I finally convinced the night nurse to take out my NG tube and cathater. She did. I had to go to the bathroom so bad, even with the cathater in, so I imagine it wasn't in all that great.... it ended up falling out when I stood up. Using the bathroom was quite unique - whiping sucks! I had to wrap toilet paper around this sponge on a stick thing. Eww. But, it served the purpose!
Dr. Gaskin came in sometime that morning, and he took off the bandage that was covering my incision. That hurt like a bitch! He said everything went extremly well, and I could go home in a couple days. Phew!
My family came back to see me, and I was able to get up and walk around. The nurses kept coming in to give me shots of heperine - and they didn't hurt nearly as bad as the first one. Thank God for drugs! LOL. Anyway, the rest of the day I got up to walk a little bit here and there, my mom stayed with me over night - God bless her soul! She has been so wonderful this whole time. I'm so greatful to have so much support and such a wonderful family. She helped me up to my feet to use the bathroom like 100 times. I guess the IV makes you have to urinate.
May 23, 2002
I was a little more worne out this day - I didn't get up to walk as much. I mostly stayed in bed and slept. The beds were rather uncomfortable - but, they were nice and big. My best friend, Raquel came to see me. She is so wonderful :) Then, some woman came in to talk to me about my my 'experience' at SouthPointe. Well, I was totally out of it and kept drifting off to sleep while I was talking to her. I did manage to tell her that on a scale of 1 - 10, I give it an 8. The food sucked (because my mom said so) and the nurses were idiots. LOL, I don't remember that, but that's what my mom said I said. Oh well.
May 24, 2002
RELEASE DAY! Yippie! Dr. Gaskin came in about 7a.m. and said I could go home. YAHOO! I called Jason and said 'COME GET ME!' I also had my first bowel movement.... that is nasty. (Sorry for the T.M.I) After battling the bowels, I got dressed and headed home. Of course, I was able to take showers starting the day after surgery - but that was so minor I didn't put it in. Sorry.
Now I'm home - and all is well. The ride wasn't so bad, kind of bumpy, but nothing I couldn't handle.
May 22, 2002
Hello,
This is Courtney's husband...Courtney asked me to update everyone on her condition while she is in immediate post-op condition, so here goes.
We woke up a little later than we wanted, so we were really rushed getting to South Point Hospital. We made it there a couple minutes late, but no biggie. We went straight up to the 5th Floor and got signed in. They took Courtney right away and got her prepped up, gown and all. They had given her some Valium and another drug that helps with blood clotting.
Me and her parents got to spend about 10 minutes with her prior to surgery. Courtney was a little nervous, but overall excited. At about 7:25, the nurse came and took her away, and we had to go back to the waiting area. The surgery routinely takes about an hour and 30 minutes, but Dr. Gaskin came out and gave us the good word at 8:30. He said everything went great and she would be ready for visiting in an hour.
So the hour came and went, and we finally got to see Courtney. Suprisingly, she didn't need to stay in the ICU, she got her own private room right away, so that was even more good news.
When we went in to see her she wasn't very lucid, but was fiesty enough to complain about pain. ;)
The nurse came in and increased her Morphine dosage and gave her some additional meds for nausea and pain. After that, Courtney pretty much slept until 3pm. I was in her room all day and stayed overnight, and she didn't complain much about anything.
This morning the nurses take out the nose tube and removed the catheter. She is awake and talking up a storm, so that's great!Later today she will doing her first walk around. She says she's ready, and I know she is.
That's all for now... I will update more tomorrow, and Friday, Courtney's scheduled discharge date.
Jason Portell
May 15, 2002
Well, today was the Support Group meeting at SouthPointe. I was able to get my mom to go, and I think she's glad she went. She is really scared and worried - not that she still isn't, but I think the group really helped her to understand the surgery more. It was a weird feeling, knowig that this is the last group meeting as a pre-op. When I announced that my surgery is this coming Tuesday, everyone clapped. It made me feel good. Really good. The meeting which is only supposed to last for an hour, went for about an hour and a half... but I think tonight's meeting was really informative. I know I feel better about going in to surgery. No one in the group has had major complications and we have a few that are 4 years out. Everyone is SO positive. OMG - I can't believe that my surgery is THIS TUESDAY! I'm not really freaking out anymore; I think because I haven't really accepted it yet. It's like I'm waiting for someone to call and say, 'Sorry, but surgery has been cancelled...' Tuesday morning at 7:30 a.m. when they're wheeling me into surgery, it'll hit me.
Anyway, you may notice that I posted a new picture on the front page - it was taken today (May 15, 2002). I look like crap! Oh well. I weighed myself tonight at the hospital, the scale said I weighed 308.2 lbs. That's good! I say that because it's like .8 lbs. less than what I weighed last month. Haha - I'm excited about .8lbs. that's crazy. What will I do when I see the scale falling even more! Oh the celebration I will have. I can't wait to buy new clothes, have confidence, feel good about who I am... You know, the one 'secret' thing I want to do when I'm 'skinny' is have sex with the LIGHTS ON! LoL, I know that sounds strange and all, and I do have sex with the lights on (very rarely)... but I want to do it with the lights on and FEEL GOOD about doing it with the lights on. You know what I mean? Anyone else out there feel that way? Don't get me wrong, my husband loves me for who I am and how I look - but I'm just not comfortable with my fat flopping around all over the place for him to see. I mean, how gross! LOL, ok I'll stop with the sex talk. I will be updating more on Monday, May 20, 2002 because that is when I get to meet Dr. Gaskin :)
Until then, Take care everyone - I love you all so much! I still can't thank you all enough for your kind words any prayers. :)
May 10, 2002
Today was a LONG day! Today I had my Pre-Op testing at SouthPointe Hospital in St. Louis. The hospital is old, but they're in the process of updating it.
Anyway, my day started at 5:30 a.m. - I over slept, as usual. So, we got to the hospital like 10 min. late and there was a lady before me who is having her surgery the SAME day as me, 1 hour later. So, we'll probably be in the same room in the ICU.
So, after I registered I went up to the lab to have my blood drawn, that wasn't too big of a deal. But, when I had my Blood Gas, the nurse couldn't hit the vein, so I had to have it done again later in the day. After the lab I had to go to radiology, where I was first taken to have an Ultra Sound of my gall bladder, spleen, pancreas and liver. This took forever! Oh, he also did a Venus Doppler, which is an Ultra Sound of my legs to check for blood clots. I was in there for like an hour, and I was 1/2 naked - so of course I'm like totally freezing! THEN!!! Get this, I had to turn on my side so he could see my left kidney, and when I turned back around - I FELL OFF THE FREAKIN' BED! How embarassing!!!! I landed on my feet, but I'm sure the guy was totally freaked out - I mean, my little dress came up and all my glory was exposed. I was so embarassed. ARGH! Then, I had my chest x-ray which didn't take long. After that, I went to Cardiopulminary where I had my EKG. That was quick and painless - no big deal. NEXT, I had to go back up stairs and wait for like 40 min. to have my pulmonary tests (they take like 2 hours). While I was waiting, I spoke with the dietitian, she was nice. Gave me a book of the foods to eat in Phase I, Phase II and Phase III. I liked that.
Ok, so it's finally time for my pulmonary tests - took forever! I have never breathed so much in my freakin' life! But, it's worth it because they are very thorough! The lady giving me the tests is a 3 year post-op who had her surgery by DR. Fabito, who works with Dr. Gaskin. She is VERY VERY VERY happy... and she looks great too. So, we talked for a bit and I asked her questions. Then, finally all my tests were done. Phew!
Now, I have just over a week before the big day - I'm really FREAKIN OUT! Not in a bad way, I mean I'm excited and all - but I'm nervous as hell. I wish I could just be sedated now until after surgery, that would make things SO much better.
Well, that's all for now - I'm sure I'll update before the BIG DAY! THANK YOU ALL! PLEASE, KEEP ME IN YOUR PRAYERS. EVEN THOUGH I'M NOT A VERY RELIGIOUS PERSON, I'VE BEEN PRAYING A LOT. I HOPE EVERYTHING GOES OK....
May 5, 2002
JUST UPDATED MY WEB SITE! NEW OFFICIAL BEFORE PICTURES! CHECK IT OUT!
April 30, 2002
Sorry it's been so long since I've written!!! 9 days is pretty bad - but I've been doing a lot of things getting ready for my surgery. My friend Raquel and I joined 'Water Jogging' up at the YMCA on Mondays and Wednesdays. IT's a good work out, a lot tougher than I thought. We're thinking about joining New Lady Fitness so we can go more than twice a week, but we'll see.
I'm getting more and more nervous about the surgery - only 22 more days! Next Friday I have my Pre-Op testing and eventhough I shouldn't be - I'll probably be really nervous through that too. My mom said she'd go with me. I don't know how I'd do it without her - she's offered to stay with me after the surgery while Jason (my husband) works. I just hope I don't have to ask her to do anything gross like - help me use the restroom or something. ICK! I'd be so embarassed! Anyway - that's all for now. I'll write more l8ter.
April 21, 2002
Ok, now I'm scared to death. My surgery is exactly 1 month from today - May 21st. Last night, I went out with my friend Raquel and she told me something that really scared the sh*t out of me. She read a post on Spotlighthealth.com from a woman who had dont a 'ton' of research on this procedure and had trouble finding long-term post-op patients still living. I understand that the surgery was totally different 20 years ago, but this woman claimed to have had a hard time finding people who had the surgery even 4 years ago that were still living. I'm only 21 - just married. I want to grow old and have children and grandchildren. DOES ANYONE HAVE SOME RE-ASSURING ADVICE? ALL COMMENTS WELCOME!!!
April 18, 2002
WOW! Last night I attened my first Support Group meeting at Southpointe Hospital in downtown St. Louis. It was a wonderful experience, everyone there was super nice and all were in high spirits. There were some ladies there who had had the surgery and some who were considering it. Raquel and I walked in a little late, but no one seemed to mind. I told the group that my surgery was next month, and they all clapped! Anyway, after the meeting, I was able to use the 'Big People' scale to weigh myself because I was really curious as to how much I weighed (I haven't weighed myself in months). Anyway, I don't weigh as much as I thought. I figured that I was probably up around 320+ lbs. BUT - the scale at Southpointe said I was 309.7 lbs. and that made me really happy. (Actually, disgusted with myself, but glad because it was less than I thought). Still waiting for the letter from my insurance company - hopefully I'll get that today or tomorrow. I'll keep everyone updated! THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO POSTED COMMENTS ON MY PAGE! IT MEANS SO MUCH TO HAVE THIS KIND OF SUPPORT DURING THE 'WAITING PERIOD'. I THANK GOD FOR YOU ALL EVERY NIGHT!
April 16,2002
YIPPIE! I got a call from Lenora today (with the New Start program) and everythign is all set up and ready to go! MY SURGERY DATE IS MAY 21, 2002!!!I have a full day of pre-op testing on May 10, 2002. I'm not looking forward to that because I know I'll be nervous - but oh well. I just can't believe this is all happening so fast! I still don't have my letter from Cigna, but Lenora says that should be fine because Nancy checks everything out and what not. Please e-mail me if you have any questions or anything about insurance approval! Hopefully I can help!
April 11, 2002
Well, I leave at 4am for Biloxi, Mississippi. We're going on a family vacation, woo hoo! I'm so excited!!!
It's been a while since I've updated, sorry. I've been so busy with car problems, work stress and other insignifigant issues.
I want plastic surgery... badly. I keep thinking of ways I can pay for it. I think I finally figured out that what I need is a Sugar Daddy. If I new someone with that kind of money, I would probably ask for a loan, but the only people I know are poor... like me :( That's not entirely true, but it sure does feel like it. Maybe if I keep throwing money at the lottery I'll actually win it one day.
I have the worst luck in the world.
Other than that, I am at a total loss of 155 lbs. That means I weigh exactly HALF of what I used to weigh. At least the morning of surgery. I'm at 155 lbs (somestime is's 153 and sometimes it's 158). I go up and down a few pounds here and there. It sucks. I have been stuck at this weight for over 6 months now. I need to do something to get the ball rolling agian. WHAT CAN I DO??? After this vacation I am going to try to do an all liquid diet of some kind... for a few days to see if that will jump start my weight loss.
I want to get down to 135 lbs. But, I'd be happy at 140 lbs. Even 145 lbs. LOL. Then I will really want plastic surgery.
Any sugar daddy's out there???
May 27, 2005
Wow, it's been a long time... sorry! Well, I'm officially 3 years out as of May 21st. I can't believe it's been 3 years.
I had a very scary episode in November 2004 (the week of Thanksgiving). I started throwing up blood. Not just a little blood, pints of blood. I was in the hospital for about 5 days. Thanksgiving was spent staring at a wall mounted television and sipping broth. Yuck. It was a terrible and terrifying experience. I had to have 3 blood transfusions. The cause? It was a bleeding ulcer. Most likely brought on by my lifestyle. I was drinking socially and smoking - this is what I believe contributed 95% to my ulcer. So, I haven't had a cigarette since the Monday before Thanksgiving. That's over 7 months now. GO ME! And, I very rarely touch alcohol now. Occasionally I will have a glass of wine with my boyfriend but that's it. I'm too afraid to push it. Although, my doctor said no red sauces, nothing spicy and no citrus (acids). I haven't stuck to that 100%, but I do make a conscious effort. OH, and NO CAFFINE!! This does include Chocolate... and you know I have ignored that rule. But, what can I say. I'm a stupid human.
Other than that, I'm back at the gym as much as possible. Around 3-4 days per week. Not bad. My boyfriend and I have been going up to the local high school and running the track in the evenings. It's actually fun. I never thought I would say that.
Well, that's all for now. I have a new email address if anyone is interested. It's [email protected].
Take it easy.
Courtney
Open RNY 5/21/02
310/155/135
April 9, 2004
Well... it's my half birthday! Hahah, I'm 23 and 1/2! WOO HOO!!! I'm just being silly. Well, more exciting info since my last post... I'm officially divorced now. My ex and I were divorced on March 29. Woo Hoo! And, I'm down about 10 more pounds since my last post in January. YIPPIE!!! I'm about 165 give or take a few pounds here and there. It fluxuates.
I also have a boyfriend. I met him at work actually back in November, and I haven't looked back. He's just about everything I've ever wanted in a guy, of course every man needs SOME work, right ladies? :D
Thats about it for now. I'm still trying to make ends meet and get my life straight. Living back with my parents isn't easy, but we all get a long wonderfully!
I hope everyone is doing well here. I don't get to check this site as much as I would like to, but I'm going to try and make more of an effort. Take care all! :)
January 23, 2004
Ok... been a long time again... I know. I'm sorry! Things are going super well. I'm down 135lbs and about 30 lbs away from my goal of 145lbs. I need plastic surgery. Tummy tuck and 'bat wing' removal. I would also like a breast lift.
Other news, I'm getting a divorce. Actually, my soon-to-be ex and I filied this morning down at the city court house. It was pretty quick. We won't actually be divorced for another few months I'd imagine... with the paper work, etc. But, things are looking up. I've got a new boyfriend who I'm head over heels for and I've got new friends and a new life. I never imagined that things would be this good for me in my life. True, not every aspect in my life is wonderful, but are things really ever 100% wonderful? No, I don't think so. But, each day I thank God and feel so lucky that I was even given this chance. I'm the luckiest person in the world.
June 2, 2003
I know, I know! It's beel a long time. I'm sorry!!! But, things have been really hectic, it's amazing actually having a life now, who would've thunk!
Anyway, I'm down -114lbs now, I'm officially OUT of the 200's! It's so exciting! I haven't been under 200lbs since the 9th grade! It's amazing!
Well, I guess that's all for now... if any one has questions, please feel free to email me! [email protected]
December 9, 2002
Ok, it's been a long time! I know, I'm sorry. It's amazing how busy you become when you start losing weight. You start feeling better about yourself and want to do more things. Not because you have to, but because you WANT TO. It's awesome.
I'm down 83 lbs in just over 6 months. YIPPIE! I'm so happy! Less than 20 lbs until I hit the CENTURY club :) Thank god.
I have had some problems though. I think I have a hard time with Bile Salts. Too much in my intestines makes me have sever pain from spasms. It could also have been a reaction to the codine cough syrup I took. (All this happend this weekend). Anyway - to make a long story short, I was in the hospital Saturday after taking the codine. I was in so much pain I thought I was going to die. The ER doctor said that I'm producing too much stomach acid and that the inside of my stomach is like a 'skinned knee.' So, he gave me something called Protonix... it's like Nexium or Prilosec. Anyway, I have to take this stuff every day for my stomach to heal.
But, I was reading about someone having the same problems. Their pain was caused from a reaction to the large amount of Bile Salts in my small intestines. Since I do not havea gall bladder, this could be the cause. But, I'm going to the Doctor tomorrow... we'll see :)
September 19, 2002
HI EVERYONE!!!! Well, things are going well on my end. I'm down 62 lbs in almost 4 months. True, it should be more than that - but I haven't been exercising like I should. I'm finally getting more energy back - THANK GOD!!! I've gone from a size 26 to currently a size 20. I'm totally amazed... it's incredible. SORRY again for not keeping regular updates, I'm slacking big time. I'll try to be more regular.
August 29, 2002
Hello All! I know it's been a long time since I've updated. SORRY about that. BUT, I have been updating my webpage with new info and pictures quite regularly. The address is: http://www.awholenewlife.net
Anyway, not much to say - you can read my journal on my website... because I'd just be typing the same stuff here. Thanks for stopping by!
July 8, 2002
Ok ok ok - I know it's been a long time since I've updated my profile here at Obesityhelp.com but I have been keeping my personal web page updated.
So far so good - I'm doing really really well and havn't had many problems at all. (For More Info, Check Out My WebPage @ http://www.awholenewlife.net ).
May 21, 2002
Well, my day started like any other day, I over slept! I wanted to be on the road by 5:30 a.m. but I didn't wake up until 5:20! So, my husband and I were totally rushed. Amazingly we were only about 2 min. late to SouthPointe.
My husband dropped me off and I ran up the the 5th floor where my family was already waiting. I signed in and sat down. 2 min. later a nurse came in and tooke me off to the prep area. It wasn't time for final goodbyes yet. So, I go to this little room where I'm given a gown to wear and the nurse comes over to give me some pills. I had valume, pepcid and something else. Then, she gave me a shot of heperine in my stomache - that hurt like hell! After that, she took some blood because they had to 'verify' that I wasn't pregnant! I was like, Jesus! I hope I'm not because you've already stuck me and given me pills! Of course, I wasn't - and then they let my family come back.
After about 5 min. with my family, then lady came over and said 'Ok, lets go...' and I gave everyone hugs and went on my way. First stop, I had to weigh in... and the grand total was: 310.6 lbs. Holy Cow! After that I went to the waiting area where they put me in the bed with the little hat and the anestesiologist gave me my IV. That's about the last thing I remember.
The next thing I remember is waking up - and being in HORRIBLE pain. My family was there, so I guess I was already out of recovery. I was saying 'It hurts... it hurts...it hurts...' over and over again. My poor grandma started crying - I feel so bad! My parents were looking over at me holding my hands, telling me it was going to be ok. I found the morphine pump REAL quick! Then I discovered that I had an NG tube in my nose and I couldn't really feel the cathater too good. Thankg God! Then, my mom said, 'You didn't even go to the ICU, you're already in your own room!' That's good news! But, I didn't really care at the time. I kept telling them to put me back to sleep - they didn't.
The rest of the day is king of a blur, I know my husband stayed with me the whole time - even spent the night on what I imagine was the most uncomfortable bed in the world! I just love him - thank you honey!
May 22, 2002
The next day was much better. I finally convinced the night nurse to take out my NG tube and cathater. She did. I had to go to the bathroom so bad, even with the cathater in, so I imagine it wasn't in all that great.... it ended up falling out when I stood up. Using the bathroom was quite unique - whiping sucks! I had to wrap toilet paper around this sponge on a stick thing. Eww. But, it served the purpose!
Dr. Gaskin came in sometime that morning, and he took off the bandage that was covering my incision. That hurt like a bitch! He said everything went extremly well, and I could go home in a couple days. Phew!
My family came back to see me, and I was able to get up and walk around. The nurses kept coming in to give me shots of heperine - and they didn't hurt nearly as bad as the first one. Thank God for drugs! LOL. Anyway, the rest of the day I got up to walk a little bit here and there, my mom stayed with me over night - God bless her soul! She has been so wonderful this whole time. I'm so greatful to have so much support and such a wonderful family. She helped me up to my feet to use the bathroom like 100 times. I guess the IV makes you have to urinate.
May 23, 2002
I was a little more worne out this day - I didn't get up to walk as much. I mostly stayed in bed and slept. The beds were rather uncomfortable - but, they were nice and big. My best friend, Raquel came to see me. She is so wonderful :) Then, some woman came in to talk to me about my my 'experience' at SouthPointe. Well, I was totally out of it and kept drifting off to sleep while I was talking to her. I did manage to tell her that on a scale of 1 - 10, I give it an 8. The food sucked (because my mom said so) and the nurses were idiots. LOL, I don't remember that, but that's what my mom said I said. Oh well.
May 24, 2002
RELEASE DAY! Yippie! Dr. Gaskin came in about 7a.m. and said I could go home. YAHOO! I called Jason and said 'COME GET ME!' I also had my first bowel movement.... that is nasty. (Sorry for the T.M.I) After battling the bowels, I got dressed and headed home. Of course, I was able to take showers starting the day after surgery - but that was so minor I didn't put it in. Sorry.
Now I'm home - and all is well. The ride wasn't so bad, kind of bumpy, but nothing I couldn't handle.
May 22, 2002
Hello,
This is Courtney's husband...Courtney asked me to update everyone on her condition while she is in immediate post-op condition, so here goes.
We woke up a little later than we wanted, so we were really rushed getting to South Point Hospital. We made it there a couple minutes late, but no biggie. We went straight up to the 5th Floor and got signed in. They took Courtney right away and got her prepped up, gown and all. They had given her some Valium and another drug that helps with blood clotting.
Me and her parents got to spend about 10 minutes with her prior to surgery. Courtney was a little nervous, but overall excited. At about 7:25, the nurse came and took her away, and we had to go back to the waiting area. The surgery routinely takes about an hour and 30 minutes, but Dr. Gaskin came out and gave us the good word at 8:30. He said everything went great and she would be ready for visiting in an hour.
So the hour came and went, and we finally got to see Courtney. Suprisingly, she didn't need to stay in the ICU, she got her own private room right away, so that was even more good news.
When we went in to see her she wasn't very lucid, but was fiesty enough to complain about pain. ;)
The nurse came in and increased her Morphine dosage and gave her some additional meds for nausea and pain. After that, Courtney pretty much slept until 3pm. I was in her room all day and stayed overnight, and she didn't complain much about anything.
This morning the nurses take out the nose tube and removed the catheter. She is awake and talking up a storm, so that's great!Later today she will doing her first walk around. She says she's ready, and I know she is.
That's all for now... I will update more tomorrow, and Friday, Courtney's scheduled discharge date.
Jason Portell
May 15, 2002
Well, today was the Support Group meeting at SouthPointe. I was able to get my mom to go, and I think she's glad she went. She is really scared and worried - not that she still isn't, but I think the group really helped her to understand the surgery more. It was a weird feeling, knowig that this is the last group meeting as a pre-op. When I announced that my surgery is this coming Tuesday, everyone clapped. It made me feel good. Really good. The meeting which is only supposed to last for an hour, went for about an hour and a half... but I think tonight's meeting was really informative. I know I feel better about going in to surgery. No one in the group has had major complications and we have a few that are 4 years out. Everyone is SO positive. OMG - I can't believe that my surgery is THIS TUESDAY! I'm not really freaking out anymore; I think because I haven't really accepted it yet. It's like I'm waiting for someone to call and say, 'Sorry, but surgery has been cancelled...' Tuesday morning at 7:30 a.m. when they're wheeling me into surgery, it'll hit me.
Anyway, you may notice that I posted a new picture on the front page - it was taken today (May 15, 2002). I look like crap! Oh well. I weighed myself tonight at the hospital, the scale said I weighed 308.2 lbs. That's good! I say that because it's like .8 lbs. less than what I weighed last month. Haha - I'm excited about .8lbs. that's crazy. What will I do when I see the scale falling even more! Oh the celebration I will have. I can't wait to buy new clothes, have confidence, feel good about who I am... You know, the one 'secret' thing I want to do when I'm 'skinny' is have sex with the LIGHTS ON! LoL, I know that sounds strange and all, and I do have sex with the lights on (very rarely)... but I want to do it with the lights on and FEEL GOOD about doing it with the lights on. You know what I mean? Anyone else out there feel that way? Don't get me wrong, my husband loves me for who I am and how I look - but I'm just not comfortable with my fat flopping around all over the place for him to see. I mean, how gross! LOL, ok I'll stop with the sex talk. I will be updating more on Monday, May 20, 2002 because that is when I get to meet Dr. Gaskin :)
Until then, Take care everyone - I love you all so much! I still can't thank you all enough for your kind words any prayers. :)
May 10, 2002
Today was a LONG day! Today I had my Pre-Op testing at SouthPointe Hospital in St. Louis. The hospital is old, but they're in the process of updating it.
Anyway, my day started at 5:30 a.m. - I over slept, as usual. So, we got to the hospital like 10 min. late and there was a lady before me who is having her surgery the SAME day as me, 1 hour later. So, we'll probably be in the same room in the ICU.
So, after I registered I went up to the lab to have my blood drawn, that wasn't too big of a deal. But, when I had my Blood Gas, the nurse couldn't hit the vein, so I had to have it done again later in the day. After the lab I had to go to radiology, where I was first taken to have an Ultra Sound of my gall bladder, spleen, pancreas and liver. This took forever! Oh, he also did a Venus Doppler, which is an Ultra Sound of my legs to check for blood clots. I was in there for like an hour, and I was 1/2 naked - so of course I'm like totally freezing! THEN!!! Get this, I had to turn on my side so he could see my left kidney, and when I turned back around - I FELL OFF THE FREAKIN' BED! How embarassing!!!! I landed on my feet, but I'm sure the guy was totally freaked out - I mean, my little dress came up and all my glory was exposed. I was so embarassed. ARGH! Then, I had my chest x-ray which didn't take long. After that, I went to Cardiopulminary where I had my EKG. That was quick and painless - no big deal. NEXT, I had to go back up stairs and wait for like 40 min. to have my pulmonary tests (they take like 2 hours). While I was waiting, I spoke with the dietitian, she was nice. Gave me a book of the foods to eat in Phase I, Phase II and Phase III. I liked that.
Ok, so it's finally time for my pulmonary tests - took forever! I have never breathed so much in my freakin' life! But, it's worth it because they are very thorough! The lady giving me the tests is a 3 year post-op who had her surgery by DR. Fabito, who works with Dr. Gaskin. She is VERY VERY VERY happy... and she looks great too. So, we talked for a bit and I asked her questions. Then, finally all my tests were done. Phew!
Now, I have just over a week before the big day - I'm really FREAKIN OUT! Not in a bad way, I mean I'm excited and all - but I'm nervous as hell. I wish I could just be sedated now until after surgery, that would make things SO much better.
Well, that's all for now - I'm sure I'll update before the BIG DAY! THANK YOU ALL! PLEASE, KEEP ME IN YOUR PRAYERS. EVEN THOUGH I'M NOT A VERY RELIGIOUS PERSON, I'VE BEEN PRAYING A LOT. I HOPE EVERYTHING GOES OK....
May 5, 2002
JUST UPDATED MY WEB SITE! NEW OFFICIAL BEFORE PICTURES! CHECK IT OUT!
April 30, 2002
Sorry it's been so long since I've written!!! 9 days is pretty bad - but I've been doing a lot of things getting ready for my surgery. My friend Raquel and I joined 'Water Jogging' up at the YMCA on Mondays and Wednesdays. IT's a good work out, a lot tougher than I thought. We're thinking about joining New Lady Fitness so we can go more than twice a week, but we'll see.
I'm getting more and more nervous about the surgery - only 22 more days! Next Friday I have my Pre-Op testing and eventhough I shouldn't be - I'll probably be really nervous through that too. My mom said she'd go with me. I don't know how I'd do it without her - she's offered to stay with me after the surgery while Jason (my husband) works. I just hope I don't have to ask her to do anything gross like - help me use the restroom or something. ICK! I'd be so embarassed! Anyway - that's all for now. I'll write more l8ter.
April 21, 2002
Ok, now I'm scared to death. My surgery is exactly 1 month from today - May 21st. Last night, I went out with my friend Raquel and she told me something that really scared the sh*t out of me. She read a post on Spotlighthealth.com from a woman who had dont a 'ton' of research on this procedure and had trouble finding long-term post-op patients still living. I understand that the surgery was totally different 20 years ago, but this woman claimed to have had a hard time finding people who had the surgery even 4 years ago that were still living. I'm only 21 - just married. I want to grow old and have children and grandchildren. DOES ANYONE HAVE SOME RE-ASSURING ADVICE? ALL COMMENTS WELCOME!!!
April 18, 2002
WOW! Last night I attened my first Support Group meeting at Southpointe Hospital in downtown St. Louis. It was a wonderful experience, everyone there was super nice and all were in high spirits. There were some ladies there who had had the surgery and some who were considering it. Raquel and I walked in a little late, but no one seemed to mind. I told the group that my surgery was next month, and they all clapped! Anyway, after the meeting, I was able to use the 'Big People' scale to weigh myself because I was really curious as to how much I weighed (I haven't weighed myself in months). Anyway, I don't weigh as much as I thought. I figured that I was probably up around 320+ lbs. BUT - the scale at Southpointe said I was 309.7 lbs. and that made me really happy. (Actually, disgusted with myself, but glad because it was less than I thought). Still waiting for the letter from my insurance company - hopefully I'll get that today or tomorrow. I'll keep everyone updated! THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO POSTED COMMENTS ON MY PAGE! IT MEANS SO MUCH TO HAVE THIS KIND OF SUPPORT DURING THE 'WAITING PERIOD'. I THANK GOD FOR YOU ALL EVERY NIGHT!
April 16,2002
YIPPIE! I got a call from Lenora today (with the New Start program) and everythign is all set up and ready to go! MY SURGERY DATE IS MAY 21, 2002!!!I have a full day of pre-op testing on May 10, 2002. I'm not looking forward to that because I know I'll be nervous - but oh well. I just can't believe this is all happening so fast! I still don't have my letter from Cigna, but Lenora says that should be fine because Nancy checks everything out and what not. Please e-mail me if you have any questions or anything about insurance approval! Hopefully I can help!
April 11, 2002
I'M APPROVED
Oh My God!!!!! I'm so excited!!! I called Cigna yesterday and talked to the most wonderful woman in the world!!! She put a rush on the information Monday and today I called back today (Thursday) and I WAS APPROVED!!!!!!!! I have to wait 5-7 days for Cigna to send the letter to the surgeon and to me!!! I'll let everyone know when I get the letter and have the first appointment!!!
April 4, 2002
Ok, called Cigna yet again... it's only been the 9th BUSINESS day since they got my paper work on 3/22/02. So, they said to call back on Monday or Tuesday... AHH! I'm so impatient I can't stand it. I'll keep y'all posted. :)
March 28, 2002
Well, I called Cigna yet again, and this time I asked for more specific requirements on getting this surgery approved. The one thing that really got me down was the letter from my PCP. My PCP won't write a letter to the insurance company, so I need to switch my PCP I guess. But, if I do switch - How will I know before hand if he/she approves of WLS? And, if he/she does approve - will he/she be willing to write a letter of medical necessity??????????? AHH! The only note my PCP did give me was a little letter (on a Prescription paper) that said I was on Xenical for a short amount of time in January of 2001 but had to go off of it due to side effects. :( I feel like crying - I just hope Cigna will overlook that and rely more on the letter from Dianne Joyce, the wonderful lady who did my Psych. Eval.
March 18, 2002
Ok ok ok ... Here's some more news... and what I did. So, I'm trying to get insurance approval through New Start's Dr. Gaskin; but I'm also trying to get approval through Midwest Bariatric's Dr. de la Torre. Why? Because I want to have options. So, I called MW Bariatric today, and tried to speak with Nancy, but she's only there on Wednesdays and Thursdays. POOP! Anyway, I do know, from talking with Cigna, that Nancy called to get the fax number. So, I hope that means she faxed in my info. Still haven't heard anything. Mary, at Dr. Gaskin's office mailed everything in... so that takes longer than faxing. Both take TOO long in my book, but what am I to do? All I can do is wait.
March 12, 2002
Ok, FINALLY!!! I called Dr. Gaskin's office yesterday and found out that Dr. Gaskin SIGNED MY PAPERWORK!!! YIPPIE! And, all my info was submitted to Cigna March 7th. So, now I'm officially playing the waiting game. I called Cigna today to see if they had my paperwork yet, but they don't. It's probably sitting in their mail room or something. The lady said once they had it, it would take 10-15 days to make a decision. BullCrap! I'll call them everyday if I have to, to speed things up. I'm not going to let them deny me, that's for damn sure. I've waited too long for this and I want this too badly. I'm not letting Cigna screw me over. Ok, that's enough venting for now. I'll keep everyone posted. WISH ME LUCK!
February 26, 2002
THIS SUCKS!!!I'm so sick and tired of playing the waiting game I could shoot someone! (ok, not literally). I called New Start on Thursday, and Nancy is in the process of preparing my letter for Dr. Gaskin now. She also told me that Dr. Fabito has to make a decision very soon wether or not he is going to retire or continue with surgeries. If he retires, that means that Dr. Gaskin will be the only Dr. in New Start's program. Since Dr. Mitchell quit doing the surgery I have a terrible feeling that Dr. Gaskin will get overwhelmed and want to stop doing the surgery too. AHH! This is so frustrating! So, I've been researching other doctors, like Dr. Fobi in CA or this other DR in Columbia, MO that does the 'Fobi Pouch.' If I have to go to Dr. Fobi, I'm sure he will be excellent, it's just that I have to fly there and back which is money I wasn't counting on spending. AHHHHHHHHHHHHHH! I'm so frustrated! All I want is for someone to cut me open and re-arrange my insides so I can loose this fu**ing weight, but NO it's like asking for someone to just hand over $1 Million Dollars!!!
February 15, 2002
Well, looks like I messed up and deleted all the information I had on this site. DAMN IT!!! Anyway, here's what's going on...
So far, I've been moved around from surgeon to surgeon. First, Dr. Richardson quit doing this surgery and now Dr. Mitchell has quit doing this surgery. So... I've ben referred to Dr. Gaskin who won't see anyone until they've been approved by insurance. AHH! And, to top it off, the letter that New Start sent to Dr. Mitchell now has to be re-done and sent to DR. Gaskin. SO, who knows when he'll get that. I'm scared to death that Dr. Gaskin wil get overwhelmed and stop doing this surgery too. Then I won't know what to do. I'm scared for my life.
Hospital Reviews
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Surgeon Info:
Surgeon: Ronald Gaskin, M.D.
May 24, 2002 Well, I met Dr. Gaskin 5/20/02. He was an hour and 1/2 late to the appointment - but it was worth it. He calmed my fears and my mother's. He was not rushed - a perfect gentleman. He did the surgery in just over an hour - and I never even had to go the the ICU. He's the best! He has a wonderful bedside manor. April 15, 2002 Ok, haven't met Dr. Gaskin yet and won't until the day before my surgery. I'm excited to meet him - I've only heard good thing! I'll keep you updated!
Insurer Info:
Cigna, PPO
I'M APPROVED! Everyone working for Cigna PPO is very nice and informative. One lady even put a rush on my information to Medical Review and I was approved in 72 hours!
