vanessakw4
NOTE: NEW COMMENTS BEFORE OLD COMMENTS
***05/01/08***
Just wanted to say hello to everyone and to let you know that I'm doing just fine. I've been at a plateau for some time. I'm still maintaining and just living life. Congrats to all of you and God Bless US ALL!
***04/05/07***
I just wanted to check in to say that I am doing just fine. I need to know how to get back on the wagon. I've stopped losing weight for sover a 1.5 years and I really need to work on getting to my goal weight. If anyone has any suggestions, please contact me or leave me a message. Any ideas would greatly help. Thanks and Happy Easter to all of you and your families. God Bless!
***01/03/06***
HAPPY NEW YEAR 2006 TO EVERYONE! I WISH ALL OF YOU THE BEST AND MUCH MUCH MORE HAPPINESS. I just wanted to check in and let all of you know that I am doing just fine. I am healthy and that's all that matters. I was just recently laid off my job before Thanksgiving, but GOD is GOOD and I know that there is something special in store for me. I am just waiting patiently on the LORD to answer my prayers. I haven't gained any weight or lost any. My abdominalplasty is looking good, it's been over 6 months and a lot of the swelling has subsided. I am still hoping to lose more weight and I will work more at it this year. I look fine just as I am now, but you know there is always room for improvement, at least in my opinion. Once you start w/the plastic surgery, it gets addictive. I would like to get my thighs done, however insurance isn't paying for this procedure, so I need to save some pennies! I'll do it, it's one of my goals for at least this year if not the next. Well take care everyone and I'll check in at a later time.
***12/02/05***
Hello everyone, I just wanted to check in. It has been a long time. I'm so so sorry, but I've just been so busy with work that I barely have the time for myself. I had a check-up with Dr. Frantzidies today. I can't believe that it's been 3 yrs. I was thinking 2 years, but no, I'm way past that point!
I've been doing just fine. I had my tummy tuck, abdominalplasty, lipo on the back, breat lift and wings removed all within one year.
The majority of my plastic surgery was completed by Dr. Geoffrey Fenner - Evanston NW Hospital. He's actually located on the same floor as Frantzidies. He's done a wonderful job in my opinion.
I hadn't gone to see Frantzidies in at least a year and when I just popped in one day to say hi - he told me that he's dedicated to his patients and that I should never wait so long to come see him. He's still his wonderful self! He checked me out and completed by blood work. Recommended some vitamins & iron tablets. I'm good to go.
I promised that I would come back to follow-up in six months with Frantzidies. I will keep my promise! Well I hope all of you are doing just fine. I know there are a lot of reports out there saying that Gastric Bypass is not good. But who are they to tell us what is good for us? I make my own decisions. This by far is the best decision that I've made for me. You get out of this what you put into it. As Frantzidies always says, "75% of this is the tool, the other 25% you've got to do on your own." He's right, it's not a miracle cure, you have to work at it. Just do your best.
I haven't lost any weight in about one year now, but I haven't gained any either. I know what I need to do to get back on track and I'm making the preparations to get things back on track.
Nevertheless, I am so so happy!
Happy Holidays, Season's Greeting! Take Care and Best Wishes for a wonderful New Year!
***04/06/04***
Hello everyone, just wanted to check in and say that ALL is well. I'm looking & feeling good. I have a check-up w/the Doctors on 4/9/04. Looking forward to seeing what their thoughts of in regards to my progress. I still haven't lost anymore weight, I don't weigh everyday. Sometimes I just check while I'm in the washroom. But no change. I do know that I need to make some changes myself in order to loss more. I'm researching different plastic surgeons. I haven't made up my mind and I know that I'm not ready for surgery this year; but maybe next year; when I'm over 2 years.
My family is well. I'm proud to annouce that my mom is going to have surgery next week. So in order to be as supportive to her as she's been to me; I've agreed to TRY to eat some of the same things (like starting the process over). Maybe this will help me to start losing again. Who knows? Please say a prayer for my mom. She's chosen a doctor in our area.
I hope everyone is doing well. This is STILL the best decision ever for me! Take care and God Bless You All. Happy Passover!
***03/05/04***
I'm at a plateau and want to lose at least 30-50 more pounds. The problem is I can eat whatever I like (small amounts)! I think the rice, bread and things of that nature are hindering me. If anyone could offer some advice I'd appreciate it. I have yet to take one vitamin or the protein. I feel fine & look great; but if it's the protein that's stopping me from losing more, could someone recommend a good protein that doesn't taste like fiber. I figured I was eating enough of everything; therefore I didn't need the extra fiber - BUT maybe I'm wrong.
Congrats to all of you who have crossed over to the LOSING side and to all of those on their way. It's more than worth the journey.
Also I need a plastic surgeon, who's close to the Lake County area and not so expensive. I now have United Healthcare, does anyone know of a doctor who accepts this insurance?
Take care and may God continue to SMILE upon all of you my AMOS family!
***01/20/04***
Happy New Year to all of you out there. Just checking in to say that I am doing just fine. Busy as ever w/work, home & school. Total loss still around 235. I can eat whatever I like, I find myself snacking all throughout the day. Still having problems drinking water; but that's more a personal issue, not do to the surgery or anything, I just hate to drink water.I wish everyone continued success. Hoping to lose about 30 more pounds before my next appointment in April 04. If anyone has a good plastic surgeon, drop me a line. I'm looking into getting the abdominalplasty. I need everything nicked & tucked, and I don't want to lose too much time from work. Thanks!
***11/23/03***
Happy Thanksgiving to all of you out there. I'm happy to report that I am doing just wonderful! I am down to about 235 pounds and I am healthy and happy. I can eat WHATEVER I like, I have no problems, a lot of the times I feel like I eat more than I should be eating; but it greatly depends on the food I eat.
I seem to be at a plateau, I'm not losing as fast as I was. But I'm not eating the way that I was at the beginning of my post-op.
A lot of people are still wondering what I am doing and I like the fact that it's all a mystery to everyone, except for the ones close to me.
My husband and I just bought our FIRST home and we're getting settled in nicely. It's another one of those big steps I took and I am so glad that I did.
I just want to continue to encourage everyone to not give up and for those who are now on the other side, do your best and GOD will take care of the rest.
Happy Holidays to all of you and May God Continuously and Richly Bless Your Lives.
****05/26/03***
It's Memorial Day. I want to pay tribute to all of those who have fought for our country in the past/present. Because if it were not for them, we wouldn't be able to enjoy the liberties that we have today.
As for myself I am doing wonderful. I am down to 257 pounds, which kinda depends on how my scale is feeling. I think I may be at a plateau. I desperately need to lose more. I believe I may be losing inches, because a lot of the clothing that I have are now starting to fall off of me.
My spirits are high, I get lots of compliments and stares. This is wonderful, I am able to do what I like and enjoy it for once. Now I'll admit, I am still able to eat sweets, but I don't get carried away with it, I find myself craving the sweets sometimes, but I'm disciplined. I'm walking more, I was involved with water aerobics for a while, I plan to continue on some sort of plan in the upcoming months. I just wanted to stop in and give encouragement to those who may need it and say hello to all my fellow WLS friends. I'll tell you one thing, you'll be so busy doing things that you'd never imaged before. Your attitude will definitely change. Things may be trying in the beginning, but once you get to the middle, it's just great. Have a wonderful summer, I'll check in later in June.
****04/15/03***
Hi to all of my friend out there! I wanted to update you on what's been going on in my life; things are Wonderful! My entire attitude has changed, I'm just so much more happier. All the compliments, all the stares, people are still wondering what type of program I'm on. I still haven't told anyone, and I still choose not too.
I'm walking more, and I need to continue to do this on a daily basis. I feel like I'm floating on air. I've started water aerobics. I feel like I've been re-born again.
I've officially lost 93 pds. according to Dr. Frantzidies scale. My scale says 100 pds. So for now, I think I'll just stick with my scale, even though it's up and down all day, everyday!
I went for my visit on 4/10/03 and I was sad to learn that Dr. Ronald Moore will be leaving in June 2003 to go to Florida to head up the gastric bypass division at a hospital. I'm going to miss him, he was SO patient, kind, handsome, handsome, handsome (oops! I've already said that huh?) But he'll be missed. I took pictures with both doctors, so for those who have upcoming appointments, let them know that you want to take a picture (bring you own camera). They were both more than willing. As soon as I get my scanner hooked back up, I can hopefully upload some before and after pictures of me and also pictures of the doctors.
I hope and pray that all of you are doing well, no matter what stage you are in. It's well worth the wait. This is still the best decision that I have ever made. I'm happy, my husband seems to be insecure all of a sudden. Poor baby! But I'm just lovin' it. Please says some prayers for my family. My husband has been sick a lot lately, and I'm worried about him. He's diabetic and is now having problems with neuropathy. He's always in so much pain, please keep us in your prayers. My mother is dealing with breast cancer, and she could use some special prayers as well. I have so much sickness around me lately, and I'm so worried about the both of them.
I haven't been taking any vitamins, and Dr. Moore made me promise that I would start taking them, so he sent me for bloodwork as a punishment. I still haven't started, but I plan on doing so, real soon.
I'm still able to eat more. I seem to eat in spurts, including sweets, sometimes I just need a piece of candy or something sweet. So far I've had no bad experiences. I've learned that you can't deny yourself whatever it is that you want, because you'll just keep thinking about it, plus how will you know what you can/cannot tolerate?
I would love to hear from all of you. Heather, I haven't forgotten you. Adrienne girl, how are you doing? To all those who stood by me and prayed for me, your prayers have been answered, I thank God that I am alive to see and experience this wonderful transformation!
May God Bless all of you this Easter/Passover.
****03/09/03***
This site has changed since my last update. It looks really nice.
Well I've been doing okay, I'm down to 275 pds. since Sept. 02.
I feel like the weight loss has been slow. I've also noticed that I can eat just about ANYTHING, including sweets. But don't worry I don't get carried away with the sweets! I've joined an aerobics class and it was nice. I figure I should at least do more to help myself lose weight. I've started back to college, working on another degree, I might as well stay busy. There has been a lot of sickness around me with various family members. I ask that you all say some prayers for my family and I.
I've been getting numerous compliments and it feels good. I dislike those people who THINK they know, but don't. It's really none of their business. My friend is now considering surgery and has an apptmt. next week. I wish her luck, and anyone one else who is considering this surgery. It's the best thing that I've ever done. I feel absolutely wonderful!
****01/08/03***
Happy New Year to all of your wonderful individuals! Someone told me today that they noticed that I looked happier! That was an unusual comment to hear. I am happier that I am alive to share my thoughts and feelings with the world about this extraordinary surgery that I have gone through. This is what I needed. Well I'm down about 75 pounds now since 9/25/02. Am I losing too slowly? Because I feel as if it's all just stopped. I couldn't have reached the plateau already, could I?
Another thing that I notice is, I am able to eat just about whatever it is that I choose to try. I can even have a piece of chocolate and not feel sick. And I'm pretty sure that I have been eating over the recommended amounts. Have any of you experienced any of this? Please tell me about your experiences. I am having problems with the excess skin and I need to find out about some plastic surgeons, so I can start my research. If anyone has any good plastic surgeons or ideas on what to say to get an instant approval, I would appreciate the help.
I was hoping to wait until my one year annual, but that's 8 months away. I notice a lot of people stare at me in amazement. I haven't let the cat out of the bag and I don't intend too! It's really no ones business but mines.
I have a brand new walk, I don't get tired like I used too. Although I am having some knee problems that my require surgery. I hope I don't have to have knee surgery. My orthapedic doctors says I could possible have a torn menicus. I had the MRI done recently and will get the results next week. Please say a few words for me that everything will be all right and can be fixed some other way, besides surgery.
I'd love to hear from anyone who wishes to talk, or anyone who could use some advice about this wonderful secret that I've been keeping! WLS IS THE BEST!
****12/01/02***
It has been a long time since I've posted. I want to thank EVERYONE who prayed for me during my unusual problems that occurred shortly after my surgery. Special thanks to Heather Storkan and Janice Martinez; who have become my dear friends. You two are very much APPRECIATED! My intestines became twisted and I ended up in the hospital 2 more times before they figured out what my problem was. I ended up having the hernia repaired and the intestines untwisted. How that happened I am not sure, but I THANK GOD that I got back to the hospital in time. It has taken me a long time to heal, maybe more mentally than physically and a lot of the time I was just feeling bad and unable to eat.
I've had the feelings where I wish I would of stayed the way I was. I have lost 51 pounds as of 11/7/02. I haven't weighed myself since my last doctors appointment. I need to go out and purchase a scale. I haven't been able to get too excited about the weight loss, I'm still having trouble eating various things, mostly because I'm probably eating too fast and the food seems to get STUCK in my throat or somewhere in between and I end up bringing it all back up. Have any of you noticed that we are unable to vomit the same as before the surgery?
Well like I was saying, I didn't eat for nearly 2 months, didn't want to drink water or anything and I feel like now that I am trying to eat, I haven't noticed anymore weight loss; could it just be me? I hope I haven't reached the plateau already. 51 pounds doesn't seem like a whole lot compared to others that I've read about on this site. I know that I am not drinking a lot of water and I'm unsure of the protein intake. I need some serious advice, I didn't come this far to mess up now. Please offer whatever advice you can with food, protein, liquids. I want to start some type of exercise, what would be good to start out with? Well this is all I have to say for now, I will check in more often now that I am back on my feet and back to work. Take care and good luck to those who are on their way to the other side. It's nice when the clothes you use to wear are loose and look good on you. ~ Vanessa~
****9/19/02****
I would like to thank Rich Biemeret for all the questions that he has answered for me. What a great guy. He hasn't updated his page yet, but he has promised too. Check out his profile on here. He's lost 185 pounds. What a great achievement. Thanks again Rich!
Well all my paperwork is in order and I'm on my way soon. I'm getting excited just thinking that around this time next week I'll be post-op. Everyone have a good day, I'll check in again later on.
****9/16/02****
I'm getting closer to my date of re-discovery. I was nervous; but I am starting to get over the nervous stage. I am prepared to go on this journey to a life filled with new hopes and dreams. I am on my way to a healthier ME. Thanks again to those of you who have wished me well. Please keep me in your prayers as I prepare to go into surgery. To all of you who's dates are fast approaching, you've made a great choice! I believe that I have. We've got nothing to lose EXCEPT pounds and inches. Congrats to everyone past, present, and future!
****9/9/02****
Well I am a couple of weeks away from the big day and I am so NERVOUS! My husband says I look like I have a lot on my mind. I'm just afraid of messing this up. I'm having a hard time believing that I can't have sweets when I want them; at least a little bit. Sweets have never been my problem MEAT is! Like I've said so many times before; I must be PARANOID! That's what it is, right? Can I get some support here.
I've started to try some of the various protein shakes. Boost seems to be good. And the Nestle Instant Breakfast is O.K. - But there is some sugar in these products and I don't understand why these are on my lists from the Dr.s office.
I'm still running around with my secret. It's hard; but I just don't feel like answering millions of questions from people who can't understand my reasons for doing this. You know people ALWAYS have something to say. Something positive can be totally turned inside out.
I haven't rec'd many well wished from the members of this site; but for those of you who have left me a special note; I APPRECIATE YOU. I know many of us are busy and have other things to do besides post to a site all day. Maybe we just don't know what to say to one another, although we all should be relating to one another. Sorry everyone! I'm just feeling bad right now and I don't have anyone who can relate to me in my corner right now. The one friend that I consider to be my Best Friend told me that she couldn't come to visit me in the hospital because she is too scared to drive into Chicago. I shouldn't of even bothered. I at least thought she would be my Angel; boy was I wrong! But I can't be mad; I have a new life to look forward to. A whole new me to DISCOVER!
Okay, I need to get out of this funky mood! I wish everyone pre-op and post-op the best of luck. I know you all will succeed and so will I. Have a wonderful day everyone!
**** 9/5/02 ****
I went for my stress test on yesterday. After so much trouble w/the lab technicians; I finally was able to finish the tests. I had a nurse who was new and unsure of what she was supposed to do. So you know this took over 2 hrs to complete. But I was cleared; so putting up with her for that amount of time was well worth it.
On today I had to go for a follow-up exam regarding my sleep apnea study. Well I have severe sleep apnea according to the doctor. I swear I don't believe him; but I guess he's the expert. According to him I awoke from my sleep 213 times. I said, "WHAT?" I did not wake up 213 times, that's ridiculous! He explained that although I was not consciously awake and moving that I had awaken from dream state. Or something to that effect. But I need to go for another test; this time with the mask. But nevertheless he too cleared me for surgery. I have finished all required tests order by Dr. Frantzides and I'm now just waiting until the BIG DAY!
I've been trying to prepare myself for the surgery by making sure that I have the necessary supplies. Is there a discount place where I can go and get the broths, baby food (strained w/no sugar) and other products? I need someone to give me advice on what to try. I have a problem with the smell of fiber. Is there something that I can take that will at least taste like something? I'm just terrified that I'll eat the wrong foods. Maybe I should just wait for the dietician to explain in detail what I should and should not do, huh?
I would love to make my page beautiful like some of the ones I have been reading throughout this site. Can someone tell me what I need to do or give me some links as to where I can find the information regarding my profile? It's getting late; I've been up for the past few days; just didn't feel like sleeping. Well everyone out there reading this; take
care and have a good day/night.
**** 9/3/02 ****
I went for my sleep study on 8/29. Boy was it an experience like never before! I'll find out the results on 9/5. I'll be going to the hospital for my last and final test; the stress test. I won't have to do any physical work. My doctor says I will be given an injection that will allow my heart rate to increase w/out exercise. The only tests I have left to do is all the necessary blood work. I've been cleared for everything so far; keep your fingers crossed for me.
I know that if this wasn't meant to be; I would have not come this far. God is with me all the way through this. I've been having a lot of concerns as to what to eat afterwards. I guess I'm just scared that I won't follow through and lose all my hair. I just don't want anything to go wrong. I guess this must be the JITTERS that I am having. I've had numerous operations in my life; but I've never had to go through so much before and operation. I'm sure most of you can agree with this. Thanks to all who have sent me messages and offered tips. I wish I could share this with people around me; but I just don't feel comfortable with family/associates knowing. Am I wrong?
Well I have about 21 days left to go! I'm excited; but I am preparing myself for the journey into a new life. I can't wait! I will keep you all updated. Have a good day!
**** 8/24/02 ****
I would like to thank those of you who have taken the time out of your busy lives to wish me well. I sincerely appreciate all the wonderful e-mail messages that I have received. Thanks again! I will be going for my cardiac consult on Monday, August 26, 2002.
**** 8/20/01 ****
I just received word that my surgery has been approved! Thank you Jesus! I am really happy. Thanks for the prayers Paula; see they're already working for me.
**** 8/19/02 ****
I have been scheduled for surgery on 9/25/02. I have done some extensive research on this process and have decided that this is for me! While I don't have any supporters; except for my immediate family, I am grateful for just those few WHO are supporting me in my decision to make a change in my life.
**** 8/19/02 ****
I have done my pulmonary functions test and my psychiatric consultation. I have not been approved by Health Options of IL., because they are waiting on the consult report from the psychiatrist. Once the information has been sent to my primary doctor; I will receive a decision from Health Options/HMO. I have the sleep apnea test scheduled for the end of August
as well as my cardiac apt. I have done all that was asked of me and all I have to do is wait for the results. I hope they say "YES!" Please keep me in your prayers!