Becky M.
PRE OP INFORMATION: 262 lbs; BMI 42.3; 5 ft, 6 in
Lap RNY, 7/15/2002
I am currently 35 years old and a mother of 3 children. I work at a social agency with children.
I have researched this for many years. But then I would stop looking into the procedure as such a drastic move to lose weight. So I continued to take Meridia, Phen-Phen, Redux and many over the counter medications. I have been on Weight Watchers, Jenny Craig, Form-U-3 and supervised diets from the doctors office.
I currently suffer from border line diabetes, sore muscles, can't stand for long periods of time due to aches and pains, migraines, high blood pressure and many other ailments. I realize that to be healthy I must lose weight. So I am back to do research on having the procedure.
Most updated on top:
2/12: Well now I am at 185 and not happy camper. Its been just a few months shy of being 10 years since having the surgery. I need to cut back on grazing. I also need to do more vege/fruit and proteins. I am 45 now and find that the body just doesn't lose as fast as it did in the past. Will keep pucking away.
4/08: Geez, its been a year. I was able to get back down to 150 but went back up to 158 within a heartbeat. I know find myself at 165-170. So need to get back into the swing otherwise I will find myself right back up to where I was before the surgery. I find that I can eat a bit more than I could. It still depends on what I am eating. I find my biggest problem to be the grazing. I am going to start walkign now that the weather is nicer. My son is also trying to lose weight so that will help me keep on the walking pattern. I'll check in again - later!
3/26/07: Been 2 years since I've wrote. My weight is at 158. So there has been a gain. I need to do something because I am beginning the depressed feelings since gaining. I plan to follow WW online for a few weeks/months and see if I can get back down to @ 150. I think if I just follow the basics again, and watch what I eat, and do a bit of exercise - I can do it. (I hope). The past year, I know that I have not been doing what I need to- and I need to be back on track. I will check in again sooner!
5-27-05: Hello again. Been on the site a few times lately. Just checking to see what others have been saying about 2+year post op weight gain. Not sure if I am just going back to the 145-150 mark or gaining. I was told to expect to get down low and have the body adjust and possible weight gain. I have read where at about 3 years some bodies just gain quickly. That is a scarey thought. I have seen a few people that had the surgery about the time I did and have gained. I just want to maintain. Been out doing more yardwork since my son has graduated and is now working a full time job at nights. Relatinship is going smoothly, he has gained about 40-50 lbs - but his work doesn't require but moving and his appetite is big. Makes me realize how much I was eating before this surgery. I can sometimes eat a portion and wonder if I am eating too much - a home made hamburger is less apt to be eaten in full, then a McDonalds burger. I do wish I had something to go by to measure the food amounts - I know the cottage cheese test but does it still work at 3 years out? I do know that I have been eatin way too many snack-size candy bars now that I don't dump as easily. But some things do make me pretty queasy. I know if its a lot of sugar - then I will dump. My puppies (3 yrs and 10 months old Great Danes) are a hand ful when we go walking - its all body work out..LOL.
3-10-05: Well, not sure if this is normal, but my weight is back up to around 145-147. I know I have been grazing and can eat a bit more than what I could before. But still depending on the what I am eating. I have been with the same man for over a year now, so think I am feeling comfortable and he loves to eat/snack. So am sure that isnt' helping me much. I had been at 145-150 for quite some time, so also wondering if my body is more comfortable at that weight. But still, the gain can spook a person. I still fit into my clothes - but when spring/summer comes - out I go walking. I have 2 beautiful Great Danes- and I am sure they will take me walking. One is about 7 months old and she is not well leashed trained - the other is 3 years old and she is so easy to go walking. So hopefully will become active during the warmer months. I still have no regrets of having this surgery.
6-23-04: Well of lately I've been weighing in at about 138. It feels great! I wear anything from a 6 to a 10 depending on the brand. I still find it hard to believe that I am in M size for shirts. I still wear my XL and bigger size tshirts just so that I can get the full wear out of them. If that doesnt' sound weird. I usually wear them around the house. Emotionally - my youngest is ADD diagnosed and we will be going through another panel of testing for other disorders. My private life is grand. I have been dating a guy since last November and we are moving in together. He accepts me with everything - we have a situation that pretty much tested that and he is still with me. See where that all goes. He brought with him a Great Dane, Nikki, who we walk about 1/2 hour each night. So I think that is helping with the shrinking of clothes size, because I still have people coming up to me and asking if I am still losing. Food I find at times, is still a big part of my life. I found that I can tolerate sugar in small/medium amounts. Dairy, ice cream also in small amounts. A meal may consist of a hamburger (with 1 part of bun) and small size of fries (not the whole thing); or an 5 oz rib eye chop with a small portion of potatoes and maybe 1 bisquit (may not eat the whole chop).
11-25-03: It's been a while since I have updated. I apologize. My weight has been steady at about 150 give or take a few pounds. Normal fluctuation is what the doctor tells me. I realize this, but wow when it goes up a few, I begin to worry. Energy level has maintained to a good flow. I feel like a million bucks at times. As of late, my emotional level has been down. My youngest has been having great difficulties in school and will be tested for ADD/ADHD and bi-polar among other possibilities. I feel so drained at the end of a day... The family doctor did put her on medication so hoping that will help withe the school work and concentration skills. She has mood swings so great that I can't keep up with them. She started her medication today, so in a month hoping that the 'new her' will show. I know the medication won't cure her, but at least her own pride and joys will come back out.
9-15-03: 14 months. Its hard to believe that its been that long. I am so happy with my new life. I weighed in at 146 but keeping checking for the past week to see it change and it hasn't - so taking it as another loss of 4 lbs. Hard to believe. Just when I think I am done, a few more come off. I gave up caffeine, so that may possibly be the link. Took my oldest daughter to college (4 hrs away) what a day. She is a heavy girl and I just fear the rejection and ridicule she will be recieving. From going from 262 to 146, I can relate and I notice the difference in way people treat you. I also noticed how much more self-esteem that I have. I had mentioned this surgery to her, at one time she was interested, but then she lost interest. Figure her time will come and I want her to make the decision. I just want her health. Asked, if I would do this again, in a heartbeat. Asked if I would recommend, I'd have reservation - have had friends have problems and others with none. SO the risk is there - do research and realize the possibilities.
8-15-03: 13 months today. I am holding steady at 150. I still find it hard to believe that I am at that weight. Now it comes to maintaining. I still don't dabble with sweets, the negative affect it has on me, stops my thinking of trying. However, I have noticed my choices are not as good as they have been in the past. I find myself hungry all the time - and grazing quite a bit. I also feel like I can eat so much more than what I have in the past year. But the weight stays the same. Still working 2 jobs - secretary by day and cleaning by night. I feel great and couldn't imagine feeling this good about myself.
7-15-03: One year ago, at this time, I was in recovery from having my Lap RNY. Hard to believe how far I have come since that time. I am now 111 lbs lighter, going from 262 to 153. My personal goal was 160, which I am now below. I can now climb stairs without feeling dizzy or lightheaded and out of breath. I can now do household chores, yard work and not feel the need to sit down every few minutes. I can take a long walk without feeling like melting into a chair to rest my joints and aching feet and back. I can bend over to tie my shoes without turning red and holding my breath. I can cross my legs for hours without cutting off circulation. I have had the delight of buying new underwear and bras. Even the pretty ones that have designs and not be worried about how stretched that design will become. I can now shop in the junior section (size 8 in jeans and L in shirts). I have no problems with blood sugar or blood pressure. I have had no heartburn from acid reflex or just the misery of over eating. I feel in control of my eating or at least my tummy is now in control. Went for my one year check up with my surgeon, blood tests are all fine and within normal range. He is happy with my ‘success’; upon reaching and getting below the 160 lb mark. I am now also in the normal range of weight – which was my ultimate goal. Eating wise I do ok. I have my bad days and my good days. There are days that I forget to take it slow and small bites – and I do pay for them mistakes, which, remind me quickly. A typical day is breakfast 1 egg w/toast (usually ½ piece) or a breakfast burrito w/half the tortilla or a bowl of raisin bran. Lunch is a salad w/meat or hamburger (no bun or ½). Dinner is meat and vegetables. I can eat about an average of 4-6 oz, depending on the density and type of food. I have no problems eating any certain type of foods. I prefer to stay away from breads, tortillas and some pastas (feel like a rock hitting my stomach, usually eat just enough with the fillings/sauce); just because they take up room and I’d rather eat other foods. I am one that dumps on sugar. So I don’t even crave the sugar-laden foods that I did one year ago. My biggest sugar attempt was about 5 drinks from a peach smoothie within a month of having the RNY – big mistake. I dumped. I can’t say that I haven’t tried sugar again, I have. I have found 1 piece of licorice is ok, but not 2. I have found the little individual gummy fruit snacks, I can eat ½ a pack – not a full one. It appears to be anything with more than 7-8 grams of sugar. This deters me from even attempting more sugar. Milk has not agreed with me since surgery, only if mixed in with something or with cereal. Ice cream is a thing of the past. I have gone a year without any of those treats, and the saying ‘nothing taste as good as thin feels’ is such a true statement. I see people eat the treats, and I don’t even crave the food. I’ve been asked if I would do it again, my answer ‘yes’. Asked if I’d recommend the surgery, I’d have to say ‘yes but with reservations’ because a few of my friends have had problems such as leaks and other medical issues. I’d recommend a lot of research into the matter and know the possibilities of such issues. As far as plastic surgery goes, I am not sure. My batwings are the worse spot to me. I’d like to have a breast lift and implants. However, I know my insurance will not pay for it, so that sort of puts it on the back burner. I am thinking of waiting to see how much more my skin bounces back and decide from there. I am beginning to accept me for me. It still hurts to have people make comments about obese people. I will always be an obese person and that will never leave. I still have a heard time shopping for clothes. I realize my sizes are different but still the self-image is hard to see. I still need to do my measurements,which I will post on my profile when completed. Don’t take the surgery lightly, it’s a lifetime change. For people, fighting their insurance, I wish you all the luck. To all that have had this surgery, we know the great outcomes and possibilities. For those awaiting their surgery dates – your greatest accomplishment will soon arrive. Thank you to this site and all of its family members for all your support, answers and encouragement. God bless you all!
6-17-03: 11 months post op. I hold steady at 155 lbs. May have a 2-3 lb up/down flex of weight but thats about it. I can eat pretty much anything, but bread is still hard. I have gotten into the habit of eating crackers instead of bread for sandwiches. Labs all came back normal, so eating the right sort of food that is needed. Skin is loose in areas but nothing serious. I think I am much more worried about it than others. I have thought of having a breast lift but not sure its worth the pain and I know insurance will not pay for it. Figure look for a much better fitting bra may help. Like I said, I think I think worse of it all then others notice. I recently bought a size 8 in Eddie Bauer jeans and a size 10 in Levi's - I have never been able to FIT into a pair of Levi's before. Shirts I can wear anything from a M to L, depending on the type of fabric and design. I appear to be more active. Exercising is still not a 'great' move on my part - could be more actively doing it. But with 3 kids, working 2 jobs I feel like I am on the go all the time. Drinking water is also a challenge. Some days are much better than others. I have a hard time believing where my life has been in the past 11 months. Just wish at times that I had done this earlier to enjoy life a little bit more and be a more active part of life.
5-15-03: Well hard to believe that I am now 10 months post-op. I am steadily at 160. Not doing much losing. Was down to 158 but bounced back to 160 - which I am fine with. Hard to believe how much a life can change in 10 months with 100 lbs less. I am so much more active. I am currently working two jobs. My full time is a secretray/receptionist so not much movement. My second is a janitorial cleaning job. Much more activity! But figure I sort of get a work out for those few hours each night. Appetite comes and goes. There are days that I still feel like I eat way too much and then there are the days that I feel like I'm not eating at all. I have to admit, and I don't like to, that people do treat you different when you are smaller. The 'fat jokes' still bother me greatly - and I don't hesitate to tell them so. I haven't done measurements in a while and people are commenting on how much more I appear to have lost. I keep telling them I haven't lost anything for a while. So may need to sit down and do measurements. My jeans are all considerably baggy again. I love to shop but it seems never ending (hehe). My jeans are mostly in a 10-12 size. Shirts are
L mostly. I still buy bigger than I need to buy - habit that I need to break. But it is hard to do.
4-15-03: 9 months today. I weighed in at 158. Down 104 lbs since 7/15/03. I am soo happy that I had this surgery. Sometimes I wonder why I didn't do it sooner. I have sent in my new pics - should be added soon. Not sure if I'm done or will continue to lose. I am at my goal so anymore is just icing on the cake. Feeling great!
4-2-03: Today weighed in at 161 - WOOHOO. That is 101 lbs loss and I have made it to the Century Mark. Taking pictures tonight of the new me!
3-28-03: Had my gallbladde removed on 3/25. Came home that same afternoon. Surgery went with no complications. Tummy is still swollen and tender. Ok, very tender. Wouldn't ya know, I've had a case of the sneezes - I think today I have sneezed about 100 times - and let me tell ya - its hurts!..No appetite - good thing. I weighed this morning at 165. That is 5 lbs from my personal goal and 3 lbs from the century mark. That puts a smile on my face! I will be taking a picture here shortly - just hoping I can wear my jeans since tummy is tender. I can't wait to get back out there and walk. Just been walking around the house lately - windy, rainy and cool here in Iowa.
3-16-03: 8 months as of yesterday. Weight has moved. I now weigh in at 168. So down another 2 lbs. It is moving rarely if even at all. I am happy at this weight. But I will keep taking the lbs if they want to continue to come off. Getting nervous about my gallbladder removal on 3/25. It's been beautiful here in Iowa - so been taking advantage of walking again. Love walking - so peaceful and relaxing. Did about 2 miles today, hoping the weather will hold out so I can continue to walk. Well off to do measurements.
3-12-03: Finally made arrangements to have my gallbladder removed. I have had dull pain in my mid back section for over 2 weeks and every time I eat, I am sick with pain. So on 3/25 at 8 a.m., it will be removed. Hoping it goes well. My weight is still at 170. I have blood work done on the 19th at my family doctor office. Went shopping at the local Goodwill - managed to get into some 12's. I was happy to say the least. Also bought some new jeans at KMart since they were on sale - fit into 12s again - but did buy 14's for a more relaxed fit. The 12s were snug. The thought of fitting into a 12 - wow - never imagined. Made me realize how much smaller I have gotten since this surgery.
3-3-03: Weighed in today at 170. Ten more to go to my personal goal. The weight is much slower coming off, but tends to move a bit after a few weeks. The weather here in Iowa still pretty cold, with a few days in there that are warm. Can't wait to get outside and walk. I have not been good at the exercising - so that contributes to the non-weightloss I am sure. So gonna try hard to at least get a 20 minute walk in a few times a week at the local mall. I can't seem to do weights, I get too bored. I find myself wanting to get more motivated to do things. Went out this past weekend, I found that the guys do pay more attention. More invites to go out, buy my drinks, dance, etc. Just taking my time and enjoying life.
2-17-03: 7 month check up today. Weighed in at 174 - to my surprise! Down 88 lbs. He is suggesting having my gallbladder taken out due to some episodes and the tests showing stones and its not functioning properly. Still trying to hold off on having it done. I am to have blood work done with my family doctor (less expense). He will send over which ones to have done. He said he that he is quite happy with my loss. I asked about the appetite and the ability to eat more- he said was normal. He said the weight loss will be quite slow now since I started at a lower weight. He also said that I may need to 'work at it' to lose the remaining 14 lbs that I want to lose. My goal was to weigh 160, which he agreed and said was a good target weight. He said I may have plateauted and that my body is comfortable at this weight. I see him in July for my 1 yr check up unless I have questions or concerns.
2-4-03: Today was not a good day. It seems like I was eating around the clock. Now I am getting scared of maintaining. My weight doesn't seem to be coming off as well as it was before. Can't wait for warmer weather. Get out and do some walking. I want to get down another 20 lbs. Missed the support group - needed to go. Kids here at home all were fighting, didn't want to leave them home with an 8 yr old that was just not listening to anything. Hopefully things will get back under control.
1-26-03: Happened to jump on the scale and it was 178. My 'happy goal' is 160. So have 18 to go to be at that weight. Lower is nice - but I think I'll be happy at 160. Its just the number I want to see. Been feeling pretty good. The weight has been slow coming off, but I don't see a weight gain and that is good. I am starting to think of maintenance, and that is sort of scaring me... the hardest part of the journey.
1-15-03: 6 Months Today!!! 1/2 year down and 80 lbs. What a difference a few months make. I am so happy to be at 182 lbs - its unbelievable. I'd like to be down to 160 so another 22 lbs to go - the weight loss has been much slower - but .... I feel so well it almost makes up for the slow loss. I will take my measurements tonight when I get home for my 6 month mark. I've gone to a few support meetings - that does help with questions that I have and to know that I am not alone in some of my feelings and thoughts. The body image is a tough one. I did get my new driver's license - and that is where I saw a big difference in my face. I know people have been telling me that I've lost, but really hard to see it unless I see a big contrast in pictures. The examiner even made a remark - now I actually weigh what the license says - hasn't done that since I was about 18..LOL... Eating is much simpler now. Feel like I am back to normal eating. Nothing is really a no-no. I can handle breads - just rather stay away from them. Pasta - still have a hard time with, so stay away. Thin crust pizza is preferred over original or thick crust. I do find myself eating healthier - although I do have a tumble here and there with chips for a snack. I can drink normal again - try to get that 64 oz in. I have had continued problems with UTIs - so have seen a specialist in that department - nothing anatomically causing the problem - so just increase in water intake. I take a multi-vitamin and B-12 a day. I have blood tests taken at 6 months for my levels. To sum the past 6 months up, I feel better than I have in months!
1-11-03: Went shopping today - I fit into a Size 14. WOOHOOO. I am sure all the people at Wal-Mart think I am nuts as I was hoopin and hollerin in the dressing room. I even called all my friends and was screaming I CAN FIT INTO A 14. Even in a Lee Rider brand!. It felt so weird to be shopping on the junior section. I have bought shirts on that side but not jeans. For some reason, the jeans made me more excited buying in juniors than the shirts. Go figure. Even my 18s were in the womens' side. My shirts I had bought were XL in junior - and now they are loose on me. So much excitement. I still feel like people are looking at me wondering what I am buying in the junior section or I figure they think I am shoppng for someone else. The idea that I am that size still doesn't make sense to me. Hard to comprehend. Hoping it catches up soon. Makes me so excited to have had this surgery - feel sooo good about myself. I have a racing banquet to go to this next Saturday - and its also my birthday - gonna wear my new jeans and a new shirt. Along with a pair of my new shoes (gee,,,does everyone go through a shoe fetish.? - can't seem to buy enough of them.) There will be people there I haven't seen since August, so am excited to see the faces of those people.
12-23-02: Finally a move on the scale. I weighed in today at 186. A good move since the scale hasn't been moving. Hoping the scale keeps on moving.
12-16-02: 5 Months Post-Op as of yesterday. Still weigh in at 193. Sort of scares me and if I am done. I can't honestly say that I'd be happy or satisfied if I stopped. Prior to surgery, I always said I'd be happy to be at this weight, but now that I am here, I am not. Seems pretty normal - have a goal (160) and then not be satisfied until you get there. I have been working out with weight machines a few times a week. I can't seem to do it on a regular basis, but at least 2-3 times a week. I do find myself much more active around the house. I have started doing steps in between the machines. Here at work we have a gym - the only policy is that you must have a partner. So there are days that my partner is not available. I have met several new people here at work through working out. Before this surgery, I wouldn't be caught dead working out. I find that I can eat more - sort of depressing with that thought. Knew it would happen, just didn't figure so soon. Did take measurements, am down another 4 inches since 11/25. I try to do measurements 1x a month on my anniversary date, but last month was a little late. So may not be losing weight, but inches are coming off. I realized I was a slow loser to begin with - but a person's mind is just never satisfied. At least mine isn't. All food goes down with no problems. I haven't really been eating any breads - no desire to eat it. Same with pizza crust, no desire to eat the crust. I am truly thinking this is a mind game with myself. I did find a website that has a lot of low carb recipes - gonna start using those for main courses for dinner. I updated my BMI for my page. Sort of exciting isn't it.
12-9-02: Today weighed myself on my scale it said about 193. So thats about a 2-3 lb loss in the past few weeks. Hopefully the losing has started back up. In the past few weeks, it seems I have fluctuated from 192-196 but nothing concrete. I have started drinking a few protein drinks this past weekend and trying to get all my water in. Will continue to do so. Also, am starting a little cardio in my work out. I was just using the weights, but feel that the steps may be helpful to get the weight to jumpstart back up. I bought some B-Complex liquid and have started that regimen. I now take a vitamin plus calcuim(Scooby Doo) and a B-12 dropper. Am trying to incorporate more calcuim. Milk does not settle well. Not sure what the cause. May try it again slowly. I am now in XL in the junior/miss section. I also wear size 18 - soon to be 16s in jeans. This is down from a 22-24 or 2x shirt and 20/22 pant/jean.
11-26-02: First Support Meeting. It was soo nice to meet others that have had this surgery. A few are at goal, a few in the process of losing, and a few new posties. We also had a few waiting for surgery. So it helped to see others and their progress. The meetings are tentatively planned for every other week. It is so nice to finally have this support group going.
11-25-02: Doctor visit today. Weighed in on their scale at 196 - so that makes my scale about 1 lb lighter. So not much of a weight loss in the past 10 days. I figure my body is adapting to the new weight. Hoping that it continues to move. Everything was good at the doctor appointment. I asked about pop - he sees nothing wrong in a drink. He did suggest diet - less sugar. He said the gallbladder will need to come out. Since this year all my medical is paid at 100% it would be ideal to have it done - however, I have no sick time left at work. So hopefully can make it for about another few months. Have it done early in the year and pay my out of pocket expenses and be covered at 100% for the entire year again. He was pleased with my success at this time. There is a new support group starting - first meeting is Tuesday (11/26/02). I plan to attend these, as I feel it will help.
11-15-02: 4 months today. I weigh in at 195. FINALLY PASSED UNDER 200 LBS.. YAHOOOOO... So that makes 15 pounds this past month. I have begun to work out at a gym we have here at work. There is another girl that had gastric 4 weeks after me, so we both work out. It is very similar to Curves for Women - the tape, steps, machines, etc. So we take about 1/2 hour to complete. Doesn't seem like much, but I know something is being done. I am happy at this weight - I haven't seen this weight since 1992. My personal goal is 160 so I have about 35 more pounds to go. Hoping by spring to be there if not lower. I wont complain at a lower weight. It's great to hear how 'skinny' I am...people are starting to ask if I am about done. I simply answer with 'my body will quit when it is done losing'. I am starting to feel good about myself. I still feel that this is the best thing that I could have done for myself medically. Hair is still falling out, but not as bad.
11-4-02: I had some extreme pain in the right section under my rib cage. My daughter took me to ER - they did a X-Ray to check the gastric bypass area to ensure nothing was wrong. It was ok. They will do a sonogram the tomorrow -it showed I have gallstones. Scheuled for a HIDA Scan - they will send results to both my family and surgeon.
10-15-02: 3 months post-op. I weigh in at 210. 8 lbs in the past month. It seems I am losing quite slow. I do know that exercising has been relaxed in the past few weeks. I have a different position at work, seems I come home and am just too tired. I also took on a new side job - cleaning businesses in the evening hours - that is movement. Never thought that vacuuming, emptying garbages, dusting, etc was that much =- until I did it for a few hours at a time. I have started back up walking. My goal is at 200 - I plan to use our gym here at work to tone. I am still working on the water issue - trying to get down 60 oz is a work out. Food goes down easily - no problems with anything so far. Sugar seems to be the only culprit - so I avoid all products. I actually don't miss it. The smell of sugary foods, about makes me sick to my stomach. I am so glad that I had this surgery, it was a life saving move for me. I am off all medications, have more energy, feel good about myself and feel 'normal' now. I can finally say that I see the difference in the mirror when I see myself. I still want to lose about 50 lbs more. Hopefully, I can do it. No hair loss to speak of, just the normal loss of a few strands. I did take some pictures - just waiting to get them scanned. I'll add just as soon as I get them scanned.
9-16-02: Well I am now 2 months out. Weighed today at 218. I about fell over. Me and the kids have been walking at least a mile to 2 miles a day - and really watching what I eat by tracking it on fitday.com and using calorieking.com to help get some figures for nutrition. I have not weighed this since immediately after given birth to my last child. She has never had a thin mom. Getting quite a few comments on the loss - I can't see it. I need to take some pictures so that I can compare to before pictures. In the winter - I am hoping to work out with weights.
9-9-02: Doctor visit today. I weighed in at 227. WOW - haven't been this for quite a while now. People are commenting on my weight loss. Makes a person feel good - as I don't see the changes that are occuring, other than my shirts are fitting loosely and jeans are not skin tight. I am now in a 18 and XL shirt. He said that since 8/1 i have lost 15 lbs. He likes the slower weight loss - gives your body a chance to adjust. He asked if I had any problems with any foods yet. To date the only foods that I notice are the skin from tomatoes and sugar-free ice cream (made me sick to my stomach). I haven't done milk much at all - then again, not much of a milk drinker. He told me (suggested) to try a few ounces of milk at a time to see how I handle the milk. He said I could begin bread (toast at first) and red meats. But to take it slow, introduce it back into the diet. He asked about vitamins - I said I started Flintstones with iron - he said that was good. If I could tolerate, I could have regular vitamins. I go back November 25, 2002. I go back every 3 months until my 1 yr. He will contact the family doctor to send paperwork etc regarding the surgery and after-care. He told me that I was already 1/3 of the way to goal with 35 lbs gone. He said he'd like to see me in the 150's - which is somewhat my goal. Today, I went and decided something new with the hair. I feel like I am stuck in the 80's. SO...with great hesitation...I decided to let the majority of my bangs grow out and when the back bangs grow down to about mid face length - layering my hair. Sort of scared but that gives me a few months to grow the bangs out and decide for sure...but figure it is only hair and it will grow back. Walked today again about 2 miles. Enjoying the walking a lot - helps destress me.
8-17-02: Well measured myself this morning - I am down 13 inches total. The biggest loss is in my waist (-4), chest (-3), shoulders (-3), hips (-2)and my knee and upper arm is down 1/2 inch. pretty happy with that. I took my last measurements at 2 weeks post-op - I was a little late in taking them.
8-15-02: Well it's been 1 month today. My weight is @ 235 - my scale isn't all that accurate. I think I am a plateau due to the fact that the scale hasn't moved much at all since last Thursday when I weighed myself. But I'll accept that as I know my body is just catching up. I knew from the beginning that I'd be a slow loser. Sort of a depressing thought, but yet - I am hoping it will help with skin tone. Eating is getting better - just need to learn to take it easy and slow. A lot of people notice it in my face and shoulders. I keep forgetting the water - and I get about 30-40 oz in a day; not enough - but I'm working on that. I have noticed that eating in the morning/noon is harder than in the evening - not sure of why? I did go back to work at 4 weeks post-op (this is my 4th day back) - very tired. I find that the eating breakfast is hard since I'm not normally hungry until about 2 hours into my day. I try to bring bananas or something that I can eat at my desk - even a protein shake helps. I also see myself 'watching' others eat - I am amazed at how fast and how big of bites everyone takes...I look back and realize so did I - no wonder why everyone has problems with weight... I have had no vomiting, so I see that as a blessing. I did have 1 incident of what I think is dumping. I had a peach smoothie - 5 sips...about 45 minutes later I had the sweats, chills, and a VERY sick stomach. After about 2 hours it passed. Not a pleasant experience. I am glad I had this surgery - finally for once I feel in control of the food. Sometimes I get bored with what I am eating, but then I realize that I'm healthy. In the past month, I have been able to discontinue the Prevacid - thats 138$ a month. I haven't taken Prozac for the past month either..so thats another 50$ that I'm no longer taking. My blood sugars have been in the normal range - and my blood pressure has been normal to actually low -- dr will keep an eye on that. Good luck to all of you looking into this surgery!!!
8-1-02: Went to the dr for a check-up. Loss is at 8 lbs since my last weigh in - so now at 242 (total is at 20 lbs). I am happy with that because as I told the dr - never before was I able to drop 20 and keep it off.
7-23-02: Was able to get have all staples and drain removed. SO glad that is done. I am doing great. Go back the 1st of August to be released to go back to work.
7-20-02: Had a problem with what ended up being somewhat like heartburn. I drank some water and wham it was there. I was soo panicked because I was not sure what to take. I called the doctor and he suggested a few items - from that list i took Milk of Mag (cherry flavor) instantly gone. He said it may not have been heartburn but possibly just drinking way too fast and too much. He also bumped me up to soft foods. So now I can add pudding, mashed potatoes, and applesauce. I also went with a friend, who is scheduled in AUgust, shopping. We were gone a few hours. Came home and went to sleep for a little nap.
7-20-02: Went and had my hair washed. The little things make a person feel so much better. Felt good to get out and actually do a little more walking. The heat got to me, very sweaty out. But felt good.
7-17-02: Got home today. It is so different, usually the liquid diet kills me. THis time, it actually fills me up with a few ounces of broth. Takes me forever to drink a few ounces. I had surgery 7-15-03 and did fine. Had the leak test the next morning and all results were smooth. Was able to begin liquids on the 16th. My family said it took about 1 1/2 hours to complete. He said it was on schedule and I did fine. I weighed in at the hospital at 256 on the morning of surgery. So was able to drop 6 lbs from teh last weigh in at the doctor's office.
7-14-02: Well taking the mag citrate to begin the journey. My last meal was at 11;30 p.m. and it consisted of pancakes, sausage and an egg. So much with all out big meal. But it was satisfying. Hard to believe when I wake up I'm on my way.
7-12-02: Went to the hospital for my blood work. Everything is a go for Monday morning. I am so excited to have it done.
6-25-02: Appointment to set a date. We went with 7=15-03 at 7:30 a.m. at Mercy Medical in Sioux City. I need to be there by 5:30 a.m. I will go on Friday the 12th for some blood work.
6-7-02: Just rec'd a letter from my insurance. I AM APPROVED due to the new standards that are in effect as of 6/1/02. So called Dr Vollstedt office and I am scheduled for 6-25-02.
6-1-02: At work today, the new fiscal year insurance paperwork was handed out. Now it states that a person needs to be 100 lbs over weight. Which I am. So sent in my appeal paperwork and see where this leads.
5-22-02: Denied. I am about 5 lbs to light to have the surgery by the insurance standards. At this time, my insurance states 200% over the ideal weight. I am in the process of appealing this by all means.
5-3-02:Went to Dr Vollstedt. I very much like him. I weighed in at 262 today. He said that I am a good canidate for the RNY. He also talked about the other options. I feel the RNY is the choice that I would like to have done. They will send the paperwork into the insurance company. After approval, then an appointment will be set to see him again and surgery will be scheduled.
4/02: Saw my family doctor. I requested to be able to be seen by a doctor who does the Lap RNY. He was supportive and understood my frustrations at taking all the medications just to fail. He set up an appointment with Dr. Vollstedt. I go on 5/3/02.
