Weight Loss Surgery Info

Penny, I agree with the first 3 months. They are truly tough. All newbies be
prepared, the first 3 are difficult to say the least, but things DO get better
and you will have your whole life to enjoy! You have done amazingly well!
(kinda makes me a little green) Naomi
Penny Drozd <pennyisnot@...
for their well wishes on my 7 mos. I would do it all over again in a heartbeat.
Yes, there are still bad times, food getting stuck in my pouch when I eat in a
hurry or eating something I shouldn't. Missing foods, hating protein powders,
living on protein bars, trying to still get all the protein in and the hair
loss. If I didn't have to eat I would be just fine..lol..
I don't take calcium pills but because I drink so much milk and eat so much
cheese and such my calcium levels are great. My doc is going to do a bone
density test later on to make sure though.
For all you newbies out there, the first 3 months were the roughest, the next
three got a little bit easier. Now I can drink a full 8 oz of a smoothie in less
than 10 minutes but I am certainly full when I finish it.
Thanks again everyone and I wish you all well. Man I love life and being thin. I

Just wanted to thank everyone for their well wishes on my 7 mos. I would do it
all over again in a heartbeat. Yes, there are still bad times, food getting
stuck in my pouch when I eat in a hurry or eating something I shouldn't. Missing
foods, hating protein powders, living on protein bars, trying to still get all
the protein in and the hair loss. If I didn't have to eat I would be just
fine..lol..
I don't take calcium pills but because I drink so much milk and eat so much
cheese and such my calcium levels are great. My doc is going to do a bone
density test later on to make sure though.
For all you newbies out there, the first 3 months were the roughest, the next
three got a little bit easier. Now I can drink a full 8 oz of a smoothie in less
than 10 minutes but I am certainly full when I finish it.
Thanks again everyone and I wish you all well. Man I love life and being thin. I

noooooooooo don't tell me that Dawn!!! I love Chinese!!!!! I'm sure there will
be things we can't eat... but I bet there is a lot more that we can. hmmm... I
wonder how pureed Chinese food is...
It was nice to eat some veggies last night... even if I couldn't distinguish
them from the chicken and sauce.
I'm dropping weight every day.... am only 9 days out and I have dropped every
bit of the 14 lb water weight gain, plus another 11 lbs. That's 25 lbs down
from when I got the pain ball out Monday... 5 lbs a day!!! Too bad that pace
won't keep up!
Pat
Dawn <scottndawn@...
What a yummy idea, Pat! That's great! I'm glad it sat well too. I
have to laugh about getting anything with the pasta or rice. It's
very hard to find anything, isn't it? And trust me... I'm 7+ months
out and I still don't do rice. I'm petrified to try it!
Tonight I splurged. My brother and his wife came up to visit mom and
they brought up chinese food. I tried a small amount of the chicken
and cashews, about 5 strands of the pork lo-men, and 1 piece of the
general tsao's chicken. That seemed to be good. Then I tried 2
bites (literally) of my son's egg roll. I am paying the piper
tonight! It's 3:30 and I can't sleep lying down. I tried sleeping
sitting up, but ugh. I'm not nauseous, it's just sitting there not
moving. After being up for an hour or so, I'm feeling better. I'm
also sipping on a hot cup of tea, and that's helping. I'll tell you -
no chinese for me anymore! It's just not worth it! *L*
Dawn in PA
Lap RNY 06/27/07
305/278/178/140
HW/SW/CW/GW

good morning. I heard from Amy last night she was in the bad pain, not walking
yet (catheter, iv issues) was waiting for a walker to help her. this morning I
heard from her again she is feeling much better will be out tomorrow!

Judy*******2 WEEKS*******
262/231
HW/CW
MY WLS BLOG: http://judywlsjourney.blogspot.com/

Hey Joanne, how are you doing?? Just checking in on you.
Dawn in PA
Lap RNY 06/27/07
305/278/178/140
HW/SW/CW/GW

LOL thank you Cathy. . its a nice feeling!
~*Sharon XOXO*~
"THIN feels better than FAT tastes!"
Lap RNY 7/30/07
HW242**SW232**CW166**GW125-130

Hi Ladies!!!
Here is my story:
Pre-Op they tried to start an IV but the first one didn't take so
they had to stick me on my other arm. Then it came time for the
heprin shot in my stomach (ouch!).
I was prepped and went off to sleep and woke up so groggy and in
extreme pain. They had me on Morphine but it didn't do a thing for
me, after 2 hours I started begging for something else and they gave
me Tylenol and Motrin, I didn't have high hopes for it but it helped
sooo much more than the Morphine.
Unfortunately I started my period on Sunday (thanks Mother Nature) so
when I came back into the room they only had the catheder in but not
pad or panties so I was a huge mess down there.
After they cleaned me up I went for my first walk last night which
wasn't too bad. This morning they took out the cath, oxygen and
blood pressure cuff.
I got up, brushed my teeth and hair then put on a bit of makeup and
put on a pair of pajama pants and went walking...my Doctor and Nurse
were amazed, she said, "You look competely different Amy!"
Doctor Sudan said that I can go home tomorrow!!! So far I have not
had any complications and feel pretty decent, so yay!
But, uggg! I've had 2 IV's, 2 stomach shots, 3 tries at drawing
blood in the same arm, and then they poked my middle and ring fingers
for blood as well. I am such a hard stick and my veins are very
small but I survived. LOL.
Spoke with OT/PT and they want to start going back to the gym to
start walking as soon as possible and they said that I can begin
lifing weights 3-4 weeks down the road.
The experience as a whole wasn't as bad as I thought it would be,
yeah, I'm sore but I'm going GREAT!
Thanks for all the love, thoughts and prayers ladies!!!!
Amy
I'm a LOSER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I'm sending Chai spice.
Edie

Jill,
I totally agree. My weight may not come off faster but with exercise I am
more likely to be successfull in keeping it off. As much as I hate going to the
gym all the time I can tell the difference when I go so I know it's a good thing
and I don't like it well enough to ever be addicted to it.
Debby
Jill <jsplds@...
Thanks, Debby! I was glad to see that downward move, too, slight
though it is.
You know, I'm beginning to have some thoughts that maybe exercise
isn't so much for weight loss for us as it is for toning, giving
ourselves a metabolic "tune up," if you will, and driving home the
point that our lives are now different and that we have to focus our
energies *daily* on staying as strong and healthy as possible.
There's no doubt in my mind that exercise tones our muscles and helps
us to achieve a more svelte appearance. I think that it's possible
that many of us, if not all of us, have metabolisms that tend to run
a bit more slowly than the average. Exercise causes our metabolisms
to rev up and kind of have a "reason to get out of bed in the
morning," so to speak.
Plus, I think that when we have things that we need to do on a daily
basis such as make sure we get in our protein grams, get in our
fluids, take all of our vitamins and supplements, and exercise in
some way, even for just a short duration, we are reinforcing the
habits that we need to maintain for a lifetime.
The way I see it is that even if exercising isn't making me lose
weight, it is still helping me to live a healthier and more normal
lifestyle.
Jill
-26.0

Jeannie,
What a blissful thing to be able to sleep through the night! I'm glad
to hear that you have something to help.
You know, I'm glad you've got fur babies to cuddle up with. My fur
baby gives me such joy and comfort. They will help your psyche to
heal from the wallops you've received this past week.
Keep us posted on the job hunt.
Sending good vibes your way!
Jill
-26.0

Cathy
134 pounds is still wonderful. Don't focus on what you had, focus on what you
are going to have. You are back on track and that added weight will come right
back off again. Enjoy you're surgiversary!
Debby
cathymonsell <Sarrah345@...
From my ONE YEAR SURGI-VERSARY!
Everything has changed for me over this year, and I've been doing my
best to roll with all the punches I've had, and to truly take one day
at a time (sometimes one hour or one meal or one minute at a time...)!
As of today, I've lost 142 pounds. I know I should be sky-writing
it, but I had lost more......154 pounds, but my "detour" in my
journey added back some pounds. It's scary, because I didn't believe
my PCP when he told me I could regain the weight I've lost if I
wasn't "careful" and "made good food choices."
He was telling me the truth.
I'm still proud of myself, but I'm having a lot of confidence and
self-conscious issues right now, and I'm in such need of daily
support. I was so lost without my "family" here and I feel like I've
come "home" again.
I want to celebrate February 22nd, as a re-birthday! I want it
acknowledged and celebrated, because it's when I got my second chance
at life!
I just wanted to share this with you all, since I'm kind of
a "veteran" here on this newer board, and a lot of you may not know
me.
I'm getting back on track and trying to lose the weight I regained
(which I tried to catch early, before it really got out of
hand)....and continue on my journey, because I don't think I'm "done"
yet and I still would like to reach my goal before my honeymoon
period wears off.
Thanks to you all for your love and continued support of me! I truly
love you all!
Hugs,
Cathy1
Lap RNY 2/22/07
317/175/140-150-ish

Cathy,
That is an awesome weight loss!! Now, stop looking back over your
shoulder and saying, "but . . . "! You have recognized what went
wrong, and you are working to get your feet back on the right path
again! That is a wonderful accomplishment to add to the weight loss!
I am very proud of you and I am glad you are here! One day, one hour,
1 meal, 1 minute at a time. Baby steps can work wonders!
If you need a phone buddy you can call when you need some extra
encouragement, let me know off list, and we'll make arrangements.
jsplds@...
Jill
-26.0

Jeannie,
Sounds like things are going well.
I do have a question for you. I have about 40 pounds to go until I get to the
lowest weight that the surgeon wants me to be at. How do you STOP losing
weight. I don't understand how to do that. I know after 18 months things
should level off, but I am terrified that I might not be able to stop. Did your
surgeon give you any suggestions.
Thanks,
Lisa A
Jeannie <jmartino_leclerc@...
Had my one year check-up. My surgeon is so sweet. I told him about
my job and BF, and he agreed to write me a script for Atavan. I feel
better already taking 1/2 mg during the day and a whole at night. I
actually slept all the way through the night last night.
My labs were not back yet, but they'll call me next week. Most of the
time was with the R.D. She has been seeing WLS patients for 20+
years, so she knows more than he does about life after. I have lost
101 pounds officially!! I was told NOT to lose more than 10 more
pounds, or I would be underweight and at risk on that end. That would
make me 133, and at 5'4", that doesn't seem skinny.
She once again told me that you have to subtract 10% for skin, and
that would be my weight as a "normal" person. Okay, maybe 120 would
be underweight. (according to that, I'm 128 right now.) I'm not
TRYING to lose more, but the running has started that up again. She
told me to add 1/2 cup nuts per day right now, and if I keep losing,
add a whole cup. And be sure to drink 20-25 gms of protein 30 minutes
before I run.
This year has been great! This week has been horrible. Everyone pray
for me to get a job before I become psychotic and think the cats are
talking back! lol
Jeannie
Lap RNY 2/12/07
244/142/140ish (I think)
Lisa A
284/271/173/135

Sounds like your doing great Maria and just make good choices... :))
~*Sharon XOXO*~
"THIN feels better than FAT tastes!"
Lap RNY 7/30/07
HW242**SW232**CW148**GW125-130

Had my one year check-up. My surgeon is so sweet. I told him about
my job and BF, and he agreed to write me a script for Atavan. I feel
better already taking 1/2 mg during the day and a whole at night. I
actually slept all the way through the night last night.
My labs were not back yet, but they'll call me next week. Most of the
time was with the R.D. She has been seeing WLS patients for 20+
years, so she knows more than he does about life after. I have lost
101 pounds officially!! I was told NOT to lose more than 10 more
pounds, or I would be underweight and at risk on that end. That would
make me 133, and at 5'4", that doesn't seem skinny.
She once again told me that you have to subtract 10% for skin, and
that would be my weight as a "normal" person. Okay, maybe 120 would
be underweight. (according to that, I'm 128 right now.) I'm not
TRYING to lose more, but the running has started that up again. She
told me to add 1/2 cup nuts per day right now, and if I keep losing,
add a whole cup. And be sure to drink 20-25 gms of protein 30 minutes
before I run.
This year has been great! This week has been horrible. Everyone pray
for me to get a job before I become psychotic and think the cats are
talking back! lol
Jeannie
Lap RNY 2/12/07
244/142/140ish (I think)

From my ONE YEAR SURGI-VERSARY!
Everything has changed for me over this year, and I've been doing my
best to roll with all the punches I've had, and to truly take one day
at a time (sometimes one hour or one meal or one minute at a time...)!
As of today, I've lost 142 pounds. I know I should be sky-writing
it, but I had lost more......154 pounds, but my "detour" in my
journey added back some pounds. It's scary, because I didn't believe
my PCP when he told me I could regain the weight I've lost if I
wasn't "careful" and "made good food choices."
He was telling me the truth.
I'm still proud of myself, but I'm having a lot of confidence and
self-conscious issues right now, and I'm in such need of daily
support. I was so lost without my "family" here and I feel like I've
come "home" again.
I want to celebrate February 22nd, as a re-birthday! I want it
acknowledged and celebrated, because it's when I got my second chance
at life!
I just wanted to share this with you all, since I'm kind of
a "veteran" here on this newer board, and a lot of you may not know
me.
I'm getting back on track and trying to lose the weight I regained
(which I tried to catch early, before it really got out of
hand)....and continue on my journey, because I don't think I'm "done"
yet and I still would like to reach my goal before my honeymoon
period wears off.
Thanks to you all for your love and continued support of me! I truly
love you all!
Hugs,
Cathy1
Lap RNY 2/22/07
317/175/140-150-ish

Congratulations Amy! glad you're feeling so good, takes some of my fright away
:) Have fun on the Loser's side, I'll see you there soon!

Judy*******2 WEEKS*******
262/231
HW/CW
MY WLS BLOG: http://judywlsjourney..blogspot.com/

Thanks, Debby! I was glad to see that downward move, too, slight
though it is.
You know, I'm beginning to have some thoughts that maybe exercise
isn't so much for weight loss for us as it is for toning, giving
ourselves a metabolic "tune up," if you will, and driving home the
point that our lives are now different and that we have to focus our
energies *daily* on staying as strong and healthy as possible.
There's no doubt in my mind that exercise tones our muscles and helps
us to achieve a more svelte appearance. I think that it's possible
that many of us, if not all of us, have metabolisms that tend to run
a bit more slowly than the average. Exercise causes our metabolisms
to rev up and kind of have a "reason to get out of bed in the
morning," so to speak.
Plus, I think that when we have things that we need to do on a daily
basis such as make sure we get in our protein grams, get in our
fluids, take all of our vitamins and supplements, and exercise in
some way, even for just a short duration, we are reinforcing the
habits that we need to maintain for a lifetime.
The way I see it is that even if exercising isn't making me lose
weight, it is still helping me to live a healthier and more normal
lifestyle.
Jill
-26.0

Lizanne,
75 pounds is a HUGE milestone. Do you know that it is the amount of weight of
a normal 9 year old boy. (at least the size of my 9 year old boy) that is
incredible. You should be so happy and proud of yourself. Keep up the great
work. You are doing it!!!
Lisa A

Dear Sharon,
I know this will sound a lot like the post I made to Lizanne, but I
have to tell you how proud of you that I am! For real! I know how
hard this is and it's such an emotional roller coaster, but look at
what you've accomplished!!!!!!!!!!!
76 POUNDS GONE!!!!!!!!!! WWWWWAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHOOOOOOOOOO!!!!
Keep it up, Sharon, and if there's anyone wanting to join in
our "HAPPY DANCE" please feel free!!!!
Love,
Cathy1
Lap RNY 2/22/07
317/175/140-150-ish

I had symptoms, but no gallstones. I guess the bile duct was narrowed. All I
remember is that it was very uncomfortable. I had a hard time getting someone to
remove my gallbladder since my tests kept coming back with no stones. They
finally did some test that simulates the gallbladder emptying. It was really
uncomfortable.
Pauleen
cathymonsell <Sarrah345@...
I just find it odd that Cat had to go through pain for months! Me?
I had NO symptoms at all, except that I had developed gall stones. We
found out from the gall bladder ultrasound, brought on by "wacky"
liver function numbers, I swear my surgeon called it wacky! My
surgeon wanted me to get it out fast, before it turned bad and I had
to have the surgery done emergently.
I wish Cat's doctor could've had a chat with my surgeon!
Anyway, more prayers and healing hugs for our Cat!
Love,
Cathy1
Lap RNY 2/22/07
317/175/140-150-ish

Dear Lizanne,
You should be doing the "HAPPY DANCE" with the stereo blasting and
not caring if the neighbors see you or not! LOL!
75 POUNDS IN 6 MONTHS is AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Believe me, this journey of ours "is the hardest adventure you'll
ever love." I just borrowed that quote from somewhere (probably from
TV), but I think it fits the situation!!!!
You should be so proud of yourself! I'm proud of you, Lizanne,
because I remember you from the beginning and you were down on
yourself and really going through a hard time!!
Keep it up, girl and know that I love you and I'm doin' the "HAPPY
DANCE" with you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Love and congratulatory hugs!!!!!!
Cathy1
Lap RNY 2/22/07
317/175/140-150-ish

I just find it odd that Cat had to go through pain for months! Me?
I had NO symptoms at all, except that I had developed gall stones. We
found out from the gall bladder ultrasound, brought on by "wacky"
liver function numbers, I swear my surgeon called it wacky! My
surgeon wanted me to get it out fast, before it turned bad and I had
to have the surgery done emergently.
I wish Cat's doctor could've had a chat with my surgeon!
Anyway, more prayers and healing hugs for our Cat!
Love,
Cathy1
Lap RNY 2/22/07
317/175/140-150-ish

I just picked up the new People (Christina Aguilera on cover) and there is a
story there about an actor Ron Lester who was 508 lbs and had wls and lost 315
lbs. he looks awesome.
He had surgery in 2000 and had 17 plastic surgeries. he is 5'10" and weighs
193. wow 4 inches of skin removed from each side of his face and 43 lbs of skin
removed from his thighs, arms and tummy. wow thats alot. 1 sad point, when he
lost weight, his sagging skin was horrible and he had a girlfriend who left him
after she saw the skin and he almost killed himself because he was depressed.
the plastics took 3 years. he was a size 64" jeans. very cool. he has a
girlfriend and is back in the acting limelight. nice story.
At least 1 positive media outlook. IF YOU WANT A REAL TREAT check out his
website, he's hot! http://www.ronlesteronline.com/
Judy - 9 weeks to go for Travis
"Happily Watching the Scale Go Down"
California
262/242

Chammomille tea works best
~*Sharon XOXO*~
"THIN feels better than FAT tastes!"
Lap RNY 7/30/07
HW242**SW232**CW148**GW125-130

Last night I was craving something different, with a different texture, so I got
a teaspoonful of peanut butter and nibbled at it very very slowly. It went down
great! No one said I could or couldn't eat it this early out... but it was
smooth.
Lora, some skim milks are like drinking blue tinged water, and some are very
good. The ones where the company puts the milk solids back in after taking the
fat out are as good as 2% milk. Adding non-fat powdered milk can turn skim milk
into milk that tastes like anything from 2% to whole milk, depending on how much
you add... and it increased the protein. I have been drinking 2-3 cups of skim
milk everyday because I have found that a palatable way to get more protein, and
it helps me get all my liquids in.
Pat
Lora <cicerogirl@...
I also eat some fat (but I am much more sensitive to fat content than
I am to sugar content, so I do watch how much I eat). I try not to
add it in the form of buttor or oil, but I eat either regular or 2%
cheese (IMO if it's fat free, it's no longer cheese, but a disgusting
chemincal creation), I also eat half a serving of nuts many days as
part of my protein snack, and I drink 1 cup of 1% milk most days
(Itreid, but I simply cannot stand skim milk). Part of it is because
I know that your body needs SOME fat and oart of it is that, as you
said, Lizanne, this needs to be something I can do for the rest of my
life. I can easily live without french fries but FF cheese is NOT a
realistic option. According to Fitday, the fat in my diet is still
lonly around 20% of the calories I consume (more if I splurge on a
WHOLE serving of nuts). I do the same thing with sugar. If I'm
craving chocolate, I have my 2 or 3 M&Ms. Occasionally I have 2 RF
Nilla Wafers for dessert. Those msall amounts of treats, on an
opccasional basis do not compromise my food limits (I still eat only
800-900 calories per day), make life more enjoyable, and prove to me
that I do not have to live a life of total deprivation in order to be
healthy.
Lora

nah... we have another option... just take the right amount of vitamin A, not
too much ("high levels"), and not too little!
Pat
lizanneflowers <lizanneflowers@...
So yesterday I posted that link between vitamin A and blindness in
people who have their intestines reduced. Today I am reading the side
of my Centrum Silver bottle and it says....IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
Long-term intake of high levels of vitamin A (excluding that sourced
from beta-carotene) may increase the risk of osteoporosus in adults.
Do not take this product (Vitamin A 4000 IU with 75% as beta carotene)
if taking other vitamin A supplements.
So now we have a choice....blindness or unsupportive bones.
Basically, if you are going to take extra Vitamin A, make sure it's
derived from beta carotene.
Lizannr

So yesterday I posted that link between vitamin A and blindness in
people who have their intestines reduced. Today I am reading the side
of my Centrum Silver bottle and it says....IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
Long-term intake of high levels of vitamin A (excluding that sourced
from beta-carotene) may increase the risk of osteoporosus in adults.
Do not take this product (Vitamin A 4000 IU with 75% as beta carotene)
if taking other vitamin A supplements.
So now we have a choice....blindness or unsupportive bones.
Basically, if you are going to take extra Vitamin A, make sure it's
derived from beta carotene.
Lizannr

I had Hubby bring our laptop and yes, I put makeup on LOL!!! I'll
admit it, I won't go hardly anywhere w/o some kind of makeup on. ;)
I couldn't live w/o my laptop, not much of a TV watcher....have to be
connected to the outside world.
I am disappointed b/c my Nurse gave me Oxycodone (Percoset) and it
isn't doing anything for my pain. The tylenol and motrin work the best
but I have to have them in 6/8 hour intervals but they don't last that
long.
Anyone have any suggestions?!? P.S. I can't take Tyl w/codeine
because it makes me vomit.
Amy
L-O-S-E-R

Penny,
Thank you so much for that update. It's exciting to see the difference GBS
can make. You are doing so wonderful. I am hoping that I can get to the point
that you are at. Being able to cook for loved ones and not be tempted to try it.
Your post is inspiring! Keep up the good work you're awesome.
Debby
Penny Drozd <pennyisnot@...
OK here's my stats at 7 months out from surgery.
I feel great...that's it!!!
OK for real
Surgery was in July but since May I have lost 134 lbs. Went from 3/4x to a size
14. Doc says another 20 to go.Puts me at about 150 then.
The doctor(s) have told me I am one very healthy lady..one year ago I was in the
hospital with heart and health problems..and my kids thought I wouldn't live
much longer...these problems are all gone. The doc also said I don't have a lot
of skin flab either..no panni...exercise..exercise..exercise. He said even my
bat wings aren't "that bad" lol...not as bad as most others. I do have a skin
spot that requires dermatology to look at but hopefully it will be
nothing..these things are showing up now that the fat folds are disappearing on
my face..
My blood pressure last Feb. was approx. 160 over ? ..can't remember. Last week
it was 113.
No cholestral, no diabetes, no Gerd, no every other co morbid you can think of.
My knee arthritis is almost nil and I now have cartilege they once said was
gone..hmmm..Saw my xrays. The doc said I can do the 3 day Breast Cancer walk but
I do need to have some knee therapy and or maybe a brace but by the end of the
year I should be running again. Now how awesome is that for a 60 year old. I
just keep getting better.
I love life. Yesterday I made chocolate dipped strawberries for friends and
loved ones..Didn't mind one bit that I could not eat it.
Instead I made homemade cream of broccoli cheese soup and a smoothie with
pineapple, orange, mango and protein. The smoothie was good but the protein part
...ugh..I made homemade biscuits too but one bite was too much..stuck in my
pouch.
I have so much energy I hate to sit around. I am spending more time in the
kitchen than ever but eating less than ever. I don't know if it is psychological
but it helps me to know I can make anything I want but not have to eat it and I
watch the food channel and think how unhealthy so much of the food they make
is..I love Paula Dean but her and that southern cooking..especially with all
that butter...makes me feel sorry for those who eat that way...so much bad
stuff....
Ok off to yoga...love the fact that I can wrap one leg around the other like
like a candy cane..unbelievable. And will get back out walking as soon as I talk
myself into itl...lol....My daughter leaves in two weeks for her move to TN...I
am going to have a workout room then....If you get Extended cable channels check
out FitTV..It has great workouts.
Penny who just keeps getting better as she gets older because of
GBS...............even though I have lost 2/3 of my hair.....

Around here, nearly as many are male as female. I went to an older
female for a while -- needed a way to deal with being touched but not
"triggered" following the rape -- but the past couple of months I have
been seeing a male. He does deep tissue massage which works better on
my stress. He was recommended by a therapist friend of mine (who
kinew I needed someone who would be sensitive to the fact that I might
have to ask him to stop doing something if it was bringing up bad
things (and someone who wouldn't take it personally). I really like
this guy. I thought I might be more self-conscious about the weight
(even after losing 100 pounds), but I'm not EXCEPT when he works on my
arms... the bat wings bother me! My fat thighs don't, but my arms
do... go figure!
I *love* treating myself to massages.
Lora

where's lora?? it's been days since she posted. anyone know? did I miss
something?
Judy*******2 WEEKS*******
262/231
HW/CW
MY WLS BLOG: http://judywlsjourney.blogspot.com/

Mindy
I'm sorry you had to wait so long in the ER. I avoid the ER like the plague
unless there is no other option. They are so busy the wait is FOREVER. Even if
you go to a different one the wait may be the same. They had a segment on the
news awhile back on one of the hospitals in our area. If you were not a trauma
case the wait could be 24 hours. Can you imagine waiting that long. I waited 5
hours in my ER years ago when my son needed stitches in his hand. At least we
weren't sick and my dh had all the blood cleaned up when we got home:) I hope
you begin to feel better now that you have the antibiotics and can rest.
Debby
mindylynn98 <mindylynn98@...
Well yesterday I had to end up calling 911. I have been coughing all
day yesterday and the sack I have in my chest was killing me to where I
could not breathe. I called my Dr that did the bypass and he told me to
get to doctors hospital and call him when i get there. Well we got
there at 3:00 and I called his office and told his secetary I was here
and to send Dr Barker over. Well they never told him. Finally around
7:00 I had my dh call him and he said they never told him. Well Dr
Barker showed up and checked me out and I have pneumonia. I have been
very sick and he gave me a script for some powerful antibiotics and
pain medience. It took him a whole 10 mins to check me out and I could
leave. What gets me is the hospital people was suppose to call him and
tell him I was there as well. I am not allowed to go to just any er and
have them check me it has to be him since alot of dr's dont know about
the gastric bypass. I was so mad I had to sit there for 4 hours and
wait. I will never go to that er again. They were so behind I didnt see
a dr at all they kept telling me they will be there soon to check me
out. I was in so much pain they never did give me anything to for the
pain they kept telling me i have to see a dr first. I was in tears from
all the pain and all the drs that was were working there just ignored
me.

Thanks Jill,
I see you lost another pound congratulations. Changing the topic back to
exercise. I have been doing a spin class or circuit class almost everyday and
only lost 2 pounds in 2 weeks.(week 3 and 4 postop) I have been unable to go to
the gym for 3 days now and was feeling a little guilty until I got on the scale
this morning. I lost 4 pounds in 2 days! Now I too am going to have to rethink
the amount of exercise I am doing. I think I will cut back to 3 days next week
and see if my weight loss continues. I guess it's all trial and error until we
figure out what our new bodies need. I'm glad for all the support on the
journey.
Debby
Jill <jsplds@...
Debby,
If not, don't beat yourself up about it! There's always a place to
buy cookies or else someone else can bake them!
Lizanne is right . . . you were very SMART.
Jill
-26.0

I'm with Amy, I'm not leaving my house without my laptop! although I have
blackberry but it's not the same :) if i'm awake enough to walk I will be on my
laptop, will keep me from being upset that i'm in hospital. right Amy!!!
Amy VICODIN? i know we can take that. that's all i can take for pain/arthritis
besides tylenol.

Judy*******2 WEEKS*******
262/231
HW/CW
MY WLS BLOG: http://judywlsjourney.blogspot.com/

Obesity can increase risk of cancer
The researchers compiled data from 141 studies and considered more
types of cancers and more diverse populations than had been done
previously. The research covered more than 280,000 cases from North
America, Europe, Australia and Asia.
The subjects, both overweight and normal weight, were followed for
about nine to 15 years, with researchers tracking their body mass
index, or BMI a calculation based on weight and height and
correlating it with incidents of cancer.
In men, an average weight gain of 33 pounds increased the risk of
esophageal cancer by 52 percent, thyroid cancer by 33 percent, and
colon and kidney cancers each by 24 percent, the research found.
In women, a weight gain of 29 pounds increased the risk of cancer in
the uterus and gall bladder by nearly 60 percent, esophagus by 51
percent and kidney by 34 percent, the study said.
The link was weaker for bone and blood cancers, for both men and
women.
In Asian populations, there appeared to be a stronger link between
increased BMI and breast cancer, the study said.
"This study provides a lot of circumstantial evidence about the
dangers of obesity," said Dr. David Robbins, a gastroenterologist at
Beth Israel Medical Center in New York, who was not involved in the
study. "It also highlights the cancer crisis we face as obesity rates
increase worldwide."
Scientists are unsure how being overweight could make people more
susceptible to cancer.
"One of the hypotheses is that the presence of excess fat cells could
affect the levels of hormones in your body," Renehan said. "At a
cellular level, that may favor the development of tumors in humans."
Because many studies have found that fatter people are more likely to
get cancer, experts often recommend losing weight to reduce cancer
risk.
"The simple message is that, if you manage to keep a healthy body
weight, you will have a lower risk of developing cancer," said Ed
Yong, of Cancer Research United Kingdom.
The Lancet study was paid for by British Medical Association, the
University of Manchester and the University of Bern, Switzerland.
Renehan has consulted for several pharmaceutical companies that make
hormone replacements.

I DID IT!!!!! 275 to 255, as of today I have officially lost 20
pounds (pre-op)
Woot, Woot! Party! Yeehawwwwww!!!! Yeah, Baby!!!!
Amy
Pre-op 255 (Yay!!!!!!)

San,
I didn't know you had finally found a place to move to. Congratulations. Tell
us about it. Do you finally have the outlets and space that you need?
Debby
Ameera Salihah <a_salihah@...
Hello everybody...I am out of commission since I moved the other week.
My internet is not working from home so I have not been reading msgs.
Anyway, while I've been unpacking I found the top to a blender that I mailed to
someone that I mistakenly left out from the package I sent!!! And I didn't keep
the name or address of who I sent it to. So, if you're out there please email me
your info again and I'll put it in the mail!
San, 34, Single
No Kids - Zion, IL
Far North 'burb of Chgo
Lap RNY 08.28.07
Highest Weight: 370
Surgery Weight: 370
Current Weight: 289!!
Goal Weight: 150

Good for you Debby. It will start melting off again!
Valeri

San,
Woohoo! You found a new place to live!! Fill us in on your new
surroundings!!
Jill
-26.0

Sharon. what a surprise! thank you. wasn't expecting it today, happen to be
home. how cool! thank you again.

Judy*******2 WEEKS*******
262/231
HW/CW
MY WLS BLOG: http://judywlsjourney.blogspot.com/

Hello everybody...I am out of commission since I moved the other week. My
internet is not working from home so I have not been reading msgs.
Anyway, while I've been unpacking I found the top to a blender that I mailed
to someone that I mistakenly left out from the package I sent!!! And I didn't
keep the name or address of who I sent it to. So, if you're out there please
email me your info again and I'll put it in the mail!
San, 34, Single
No Kids - Zion, IL
Far North 'burb of Chgo
Lap RNY 08.28.07
Highest Weight: 370
Surgery Weight: 370
Current Weight: 289!!
Goal Weight: 150

Penny,
What a fabulous report!! I'm so happy to hear about all that you have
overcome and how healthy you are today!! What an inspiration you
are!! You ROCK!!!
Jill
-26.0

Mindy,
ERs are awful. I am so sorry that you had to deal with their
inefficiencies. The sack you have mentioned, is that what I call
your pouch? The little stomach that was made during surgery?
Take care of yourself. Pneumonia is nothing to fool with. Take
those anti-biotics until they are all gone.
Lizanne

I also eat some fat (but I am much more sensitive to fat content than
I am to sugar content, so I do watch how much I eat). I try not to
add it in the form of buttor or oil, but I eat either regular or 2%
cheese (IMO if it's fat free, it's no longer cheese, but a disgusting
chemincal creation), I also eat half a serving of nuts many days as
part of my protein snack, and I drink 1 cup of 1% milk most days
(Itreid, but I simply cannot stand skim milk). Part of it is because
I know that your body needs SOME fat and oart of it is that, as you
said, Lizanne, this needs to be something I can do for the rest of my
life. I can easily live without french fries but FF cheese is NOT a
realistic option. According to Fitday, the fat in my diet is still
lonly around 20% of the calories I consume (more if I splurge on a
WHOLE serving of nuts). I do the same thing with sugar. If I'm
craving chocolate, I have my 2 or 3 M&Ms. Occasionally I have 2 RF
Nilla Wafers for dessert. Those msall amounts of treats, on an
opccasional basis do not compromise my food limits (I still eat only
800-900 calories per day), make life more enjoyable, and prove to me
that I do not have to live a life of total deprivation in order to be
healthy.
Lora

Hi Lizanne!
That is FANTASTIC! Congratulations!!!
Dawn in PA
Lap RNY 06/27/07
305/278/178/140
HW/SW/CW/GW

We miss you too, Ally.
Jill
-26.0

Well yesterday I had to end up calling 911. I have been coughing all
day yesterday and the sack I have in my chest was killing me to where I
could not breathe. I called my Dr that did the bypass and he told me to
get to doctors hospital and call him when i get there. Well we got
there at 3:00 and I called his office and told his secetary I was here
and to send Dr Barker over. Well they never told him. Finally around
7:00 I had my dh call him and he said they never told him. Well Dr
Barker showed up and checked me out and I have pneumonia. I have been
very sick and he gave me a script for some powerful antibiotics and
pain medience. It took him a whole 10 mins to check me out and I could
leave. What gets me is the hospital people was suppose to call him and
tell him I was there as well. I am not allowed to go to just any er and
have them check me it has to be him since alot of dr's dont know about
the gastric bypass. I was so mad I had to sit there for 4 hours and
wait. I will never go to that er again. They were so behind I didnt see
a dr at all they kept telling me they will be there soon to check me
out. I was in so much pain they never did give me anything to for the
pain they kept telling me i have to see a dr first. I was in tears from
all the pain and all the drs that was were working there just ignored
me.

OK here's my stats at 7 months out from surgery.
I feel great...that's it!!!
OK for real
Surgery was in July but since May I have lost 134 lbs. Went from 3/4x to a size
14. Doc says another 20 to go.Puts me at about 150 then.
The doctor(s) have told me I am one very healthy lady..one year ago I was in the
hospital with heart and health problems..and my kids thought I wouldn't live
much longer...these problems are all gone. The doc also said I don't have a lot
of skin flab either..no panni...exercise..exercise..exercise. He said even my
bat wings aren't "that bad" lol...not as bad as most others. I do have a skin
spot that requires dermatology to look at but hopefully it will be
nothing..these things are showing up now that the fat folds are disappearing on
my face..
My blood pressure last Feb. was approx. 160 over ? ..can't remember. Last week
it was 113.
No cholestral, no diabetes, no Gerd, no every other co morbid you can think of.
My knee arthritis is almost nil and I now have cartilege they once said was
gone..hmmm..Saw my xrays. The doc said I can do the 3 day Breast Cancer walk but
I do need to have some knee therapy and or maybe a brace but by the end of the
year I should be running again. Now how awesome is that for a 60 year old. I
just keep getting better.
I love life. Yesterday I made chocolate dipped strawberries for friends and
loved ones..Didn't mind one bit that I could not eat it.
Instead I made homemade cream of broccoli cheese soup and a smoothie with
pineapple, orange, mango and protein. The smoothie was good but the protein part
...ugh..I made homemade biscuits too but one bite was too much..stuck in my
pouch.
I have so much energy I hate to sit around. I am spending more time in the
kitchen than ever but eating less than ever. I don't know if it is psychological
but it helps me to know I can make anything I want but not have to eat it and I
watch the food channel and think how unhealthy so much of the food they make
is..I love Paula Dean but her and that southern cooking..especially with all
that butter...makes me feel sorry for those who eat that way...so much bad
stuff....
Ok off to yoga...love the fact that I can wrap one leg around the other like
like a candy cane..unbelievable. And will get back out walking as soon as I talk
myself into itl...lol....My daughter leaves in two weeks for her move to TN...I
am going to have a workout room then....If you get Extended cable channels check
out FitTV..It has great workouts.
Penny who just keeps getting better as she gets older because of
GBS...............even though I have lost 2/3 of my hair.....

Cute Lizanne.
lizanneflowers <lizanneflowers@...
Diet...
People are always on the lookout for a new diet. The trouble with most
diets is that you don't get enough to eat (the starvation diet), you
don't get enough variation ( the liquid diet) or you go broke (the
all-meat diet). Consequently, people tend to cheat on their diets, or
quit after 3 days. Well, now there's the new Toddler Miracle Diet!
Over the years you may have noticed that most two years olds are trim.
Now the formula to their success is available to all in this new diet.
You may want to consult you doctor before embarking on this diet,
otherwise, you may be seeing him afterwards. Good luck!
DAY ONE----
Breakfast: One scrambled egg, one piece of toast with grape jelly. Eat
2 bites of egg, using your fingers; dump the rest on the floor. Take 1
bite of toast, then smear the jelly over your face and clothes.
Lunch: Four crayons (any color), a handfull of potato chips, and a
glass of milk ( 3 sips only, then spill the rest)
Dinner: A dry stick, two pennies and a nickel, 4 sips of flat Pepsi.
Bedtime snack: Throw a piece of toast on the kitchen floor...........
DAY TWO----
Breakfast: Pick up stale toast from kitchen floor and eat it. Drink
half bottle of vanilla extract or one vial of vegetable dye.
Lunch: Half a tube of "Pulsating Pink" lipstick and a handfull of
Purina Dog Chow (any flavor). One ice cube, if desired.
Afternoon Snack: Lick an all-day sucker untill sticky, take outside,
drop in dirt. Retrieve and continue slurping until it is clean again.
Then bring inside and drop on the rug.
Dinner: A rock or an uncooked bean, which should be thrust up your
left nostril. Pour grape Kool-Aid over mashed potatoes; eat with a
spoon.
DAY THREE----
Breakfast: Two pancakes with plenty of syrup, eat one with fingers,
rub in hair. Glass of milk; drink half, stuff other pancake in glass.
After breakfast, pick up yesterdays sucker from rug, lick off fuzz,
put it on the cushion of your best chair.
Lunch: Three matches, peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Spit several
bites onto the floor. Pour glass of milk on table and slurp up.
Dinner: Dish of ice cream, handfull of potato chips, some red punch.
Try to laugh some punch through nose, if possible.
FINAL DAY----
Breakfast: A quarter tube of toothpaste (any flavor), bit of soap, an
olive. Pour a glass of milk over bowl of cornflakes, add half a cup of
sugar.. Once cereal is soggy, drink milk and feed cereal to dog.
Lunch: Eat bread crumbs off kitchen floor and dining room carpet. Find
that sucker and finish eating it.
Dinner: A glass of spaghetti and chocolate milk. Leave meatball on
plate. Stick of mascara for dessert.

Thanks Lizanne,
I knew it would be too hard. Hopefully when I'm farther out I will be able to
bake again.
Debby
lizanneflowers <lizanneflowers@...
Debby,
That is not being a wimp, that's being smart. We know what caused us
to fail all those other times, and to stay away from that temptation
is smart.
Lizanne
251/176/125

Debby,
That is not being a wimp, that's being smart. We know what caused us
to fail all those other times, and to stay away from that temptation
is smart.
Lizanne
251/176/125

WTG Lizanne!!!!! I think 75 is amazing. . and want to know why? I have lost
76!!! we are doing it!!! Im so happy for you and so proud of myself as
well....I think we are neck and neck in this race to 125-130..... on your mark.
. get set.... GO!!!
~*Sharon XOXO*~
"THIN feels better than FAT tastes!"
Lap RNY 7/30/07
HW242**SW232**CW166**GW125-130

Good Morning All,
I know this won't sound like a milestone to the rest of you, but I am
extremely happy today. I lost 75 lbs!!!! I can hardly believe it. I
will be 6 months post op on Sunday. I know it isn't 100 lbs and I am
no where near my goal, but I am just so darned proud of myself. I
have struggled with the effects of this surgery, as all of you have,
and I am now 75 lbs lighter. I have tears in my eyes, because for a
while there, I found this surgery a real pain in my ....Whatever. I
am exercising and getting healthy. And although I don't love the
treadmill, I do love the water aerobics. I can't believe I am even
writing that. I just want to thank all of you for the support. You
are part of my success. I hope I can support all of you so that you
can feel proud of your accomplishments too.
Lizanne
Maryland
open RNY 8/17/07
251/176/125

WTG Amy!!!!!!!
~*Sharon XOXO*~
"THIN feels better than FAT tastes!"
Lap RNY 7/30/07
HW242**SW232**CW148**GW125-130

The Toddler's Miracle Diet...
People are always on the lookout for a new diet. The trouble with most
diets is that you don't get enough to eat (the starvation diet), you
don't get enough variation ( the liquid diet) or you go broke (the
all-meat diet). Consequently, people tend to cheat on their diets, or
quit after 3 days. Well, now there's the new Toddler Miracle Diet!
Over the years you may have noticed that most two years olds are trim.
Now the formula to their success is available to all in this new diet.
You may want to consult you doctor before embarking on this diet,
otherwise, you may be seeing him afterwards. Good luck!
DAY ONE----
Breakfast: One scrambled egg, one piece of toast with grape jelly. Eat
2 bites of egg, using your fingers; dump the rest on the floor. Take 1
bite of toast, then smear the jelly over your face and clothes.
Lunch: Four crayons (any color), a handfull of potato chips, and a
glass of milk ( 3 sips only, then spill the rest)
Dinner: A dry stick, two pennies and a nickel, 4 sips of flat Pepsi.
Bedtime snack: Throw a piece of toast on the kitchen floor...........
DAY TWO----
Breakfast: Pick up stale toast from kitchen floor and eat it. Drink
half bottle of vanilla extract or one vial of vegetable dye.
Lunch: Half a tube of "Pulsating Pink" lipstick and a handfull of
Purina Dog Chow (any flavor). One ice cube, if desired.
Afternoon Snack: Lick an all-day sucker untill sticky, take outside,
drop in dirt. Retrieve and continue slurping until it is clean again.
Then bring inside and drop on the rug.
Dinner: A rock or an uncooked bean, which should be thrust up your
left nostril. Pour grape Kool-Aid over mashed potatoes; eat with a
spoon.
DAY THREE----
Breakfast: Two pancakes with plenty of syrup, eat one with fingers,
rub in hair. Glass of milk; drink half, stuff other pancake in glass.
After breakfast, pick up yesterdays sucker from rug, lick off fuzz,
put it on the cushion of your best chair.
Lunch: Three matches, peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Spit several
bites onto the floor. Pour glass of milk on table and slurp up.
Dinner: Dish of ice cream, handfull of potato chips, some red punch.
Try to laugh some punch through nose, if possible.
FINAL DAY----
Breakfast: A quarter tube of toothpaste (any flavor), bit of soap, an
olive. Pour a glass of milk over bowl of cornflakes, add half a cup of
sugar.. Once cereal is soggy, drink milk and feed cereal to dog.
Lunch: Eat bread crumbs off kitchen floor and dining room carpet. Find
that sucker and finish eating it.
Dinner: A glass of spaghetti and chocolate milk. Leave meatball on
plate. Stick of mascara for dessert.

Hello Friends-
I just wanted to let you all know that I am super duper busy right now, so I am
having a very hard time keeping up with posts. :( I miss you all, and I'll be
back as soon as I can.
If you need to get in touch with me send me an e-mail directly. I am Lisa B.'s
surgery angel, so I will post on Monday to keep you updated on her progress.
Other than that I may not be around much.
Love to all of you!
~Ally~
Atlanta, GA
Lap RNY 7/12/07
251/237/167/130
HW/SW/CW/GW

speaking of Fancee... what happened to her?? She joined, posted a couple times,
and disappeared..
Fancee, if you are out there... Happy birthday, and please let us all know how
things are going for you! If I remember correctly, you were just beginning the
process...
Pat
Pauleen McCollum <mcco2lum@...
Happy Birthday Fancee
Pauleen
Dawn <scottndawn@...
Happy Birthday, Fancee!
Dawn in PA
Lap RNY 06/27/07
305/278/178/140
HW/SW/CW/GW

HG's Lean-O Cioppino
PER SERVING (1 generous cup): 162 calories, 3.75g fat, 564mg sodium,
19g carbs, 1.75g fiber, 13g sugars, 13g protein -- POINTS® value 3*
Amy's Chunky Tomato Bisque is an HG classic! Toss in some seafood,
and you've got quite the impressive lunch. Psssst -- we typically
down BOTH servings of this stuff in one sitting.
Ingredients:
1 can Amy's Organic Light in Sodium Chunky Tomato Bisque
1 pouch Chicken of the Sea Premium Whole Baby Clams
2.5 oz. cooked medium-small shrimp (about 8 shrimp)
Dir ections:
Drain clams. Combine all ingredients, and bring to desired heat
(either stovetop or in the microwave). Enjoy!
MAKES 2 SERVINGS
Cheesy Chili Dog Soup!
PER SERVING (1 generous cup): 150 calories, <0.5g fat, 850mg sodium,
26g carbs, 3g fiber, 5g sugars, 11g protein -- POINTS® value 2*
So good, it'll make you bark. OK, we have no idea what that means.
But it sounds impressive, doesn't it?!
Ingredients:
1 can Progresso Healthy Favorites 50% Less Sodium Garden Vegetable
Soup
1 fat-free or nearly fat-free hot dog with 40 - 50 calories (like
Hebrew National 97% Fat Free Beef Franks or Yves Meatless Hot Dogs)
1/4 cup fat-free shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp. chili seasoning mix
Directions:
Cut the hot dog into tiny, bite-sized pieces. Spray a small pot with
nonstick spray, bring to medium heat, and add hot dog pieces. Cook
for 1 - 2 minutes, until outsides begin to crisp. Then add soup and
seasoning mix to the pot, stir, and continue to cook until very hot.
Spoon the soup into 2 bowls, and top each bowl with half of the
cheese. Allow cheese to melt and soup to cool slightly before digging
in. Mmmmm!
MAKES 2 SERVINGS
HG's Turkey Taco Soup
PER SERVING (1 generous cup): 127 calories, 0.75g fat, 982mg sodium,
13g carbs, 4g fiber, 3g sugars, 16g protein -- POINTS® value 2*
It's a turkey-licious taco party in a bowl. Weeeeee!
Ingredients:
1 can Progresso Light Southwestern Style Vegetable Soup
4 oz. uncooked Jennie-O Extra Lean Ground Turkey Breast
1/4 tsp. low-sodium taco seasoning mix
Optional Toppings: fat-free sour cream and chopped scallions
Directions:
Bring a pot sprayed with nonstick spray to medium heat. Add ground
turkey and taco seasoning to the pot, and cook together (using a
spatula to break up a nd crumble the meat) until meat is light brown
(about 3 minutes). Add soup, and continue to cook until soup is hot.
For some added pizzazz, top each serving of the soup with sour cream
and scallions just before eating!
MAKES 2 SERVINGS

The nut that taught my pre-op nutrition class said we're supposed to avoid the
seeds unless we grind them up. I'm not sure if that changes once you're further
out. She also said they come ground.
Pauleen
ddrei_glas <ddrei_glas@...
I understand that flax is supposed to be good for us??
I know absolutely nothing about it....other than that it comes in various
forms....oil, seed & meal.
Are the oil capsules better for us?? (Do the capsules break down in time for us
to absorb the oil??)
Would seeds be better?? (sprinkled in yoghurt, etc) How long to DIGEST a hard
seed??
Or the flax meal?? (which I assume is used for baking??)
Many thanks!!
Dee
:-)

Lora,
I haven't received my full bill yet for the hernia TT and
panniculectomy, but it appears Johns Hopkins prices are much less
than what you have listed. I know that the PS fee was $3306, the
anesthesiologist was $1210, but I have still not received the
hospital portion.
When I asked her (PS) about the batwing removal she said her fee is
$2800, the anestisiologist is $650, and the hospital $1890. When I
saw her at one of my check ups she told me that she also has an
outpatient facility where that part of the fee would be much less. I
am considering this surgery but only after I reach my goal. My STD
does not include elective surgery, so this will cost me extra because
I will get NO income while not working. Something else to consider
when figuring the cost of the operation.
Lizanne

Happy birthday, Fancee!!
Jill
-26.0

Hi Dee,
I've been told that it's okay for us to take the flax capsules. We
can also have the flax seeds, but they need to be cracked in order
for us to get the good stuff from them. A little coffee grinder will
do the job nicely. Two tablespoons per day was what I was told I can
have. Refrigerate any ground flax that you don't use right away.
Ground flax is good fiber!
You can stir the ground flax into yogurt, puddings, hot cereal, tuna
salad, etc. It has kind of a nutty flavor. It's kind of strong
tasting to me.
Personally, I prefer taking the capsules. You can take either take
flax capsules or fish oil capsules. Fish oil capsules give me an
upset tummy, but flax oil doesn't.
Jill
-25.9

OH I was wrong, YOU and Katey are same day 8/4!!!! woohoo, let me go update our
calendar.

Judy*******2 WEEKS*******
262/231
HW/CW
MY WLS BLOG: http://judywlsjourney.blogspot.com/

Cathy,
We're just glad to have you here!
This is my absolute favorite online group. Everybody here is
absolutely awesome!
Jill
-25.9

I understand that flax is supposed to be good for us??
I know absolutely nothing about it....other than that it comes in various
forms....oil, seed & meal.
Are the oil capsules better for us?? (Do the capsules break down in time for us
to absorb the oil??)
Would seeds be better?? (sprinkled in yoghurt, etc) How long to DIGEST a hard
seed??
Or the flax meal?? (which I assume is used for baking??)
Many thanks!!
Dee
:-)

I have felt so lost and alone for such a long time, and I can't tell
you all how good it feels to be HOME!
For those of you I don't know, I look forward to getting to know you.
To those I've known a long time....thanks for still being there.
Everyone here is awesome and I am so glad to be back, where I belong.
Thanks for letting me back in, with open arms and I also appreciate the
support from those of you I don't really know yet! How awesome it is
to get that kind of support!
Hugs to everyone!
Cathy1
Lap RNY 2/22/07
317/175/140-150-ish

Cathy, my suggestion would be to go back to the birth of your pouch! Try to
eat your 2-3 oz of lean protein, 1/2 cup veggies and if you're still hungry have
1 oz of potato or rice. Have 2 healthy, lean, high protein, high fiber snacks
or shakes and keep up the liquids. We are here for you. Naomi
cathymonsell <Sarrah345@...
high and low for something called the 5
day pouch test. I've saved a lot of good articles, but none of them
are to sort of "jump start" your pouch if you've been "abusing" the
poor thing, like I've been doing.
I even went to "the other board" to peek in there, and it's not there
either.
If someone knows how to find this info, would you please tell me?
I'm drinking a lot of water today, I'm on my 5th 24-oz bottle, because
I'm almost afraid to eat....
Hugs,
Cathy1

Thresa,
Yipee!!!!!!!!! You'll be a looser real soon!!
Edie

I've been searching this board high and low for something called the 5
day pouch test. I've saved a lot of good articles, but none of them
are to sort of "jump start" your pouch if you've been "abusing" the
poor thing, like I've been doing.
I even went to "the other board" to peek in there, and it's not there
either.
If someone knows how to find this info, would you please tell me?
I'm drinking a lot of water today, I'm on my 5th 24-oz bottle, because
I'm almost afraid to eat....
Hugs,
Cathy1

You have NO REASON to apologize, Cathy. We dont; ahve any rules
about what you can and cannot post about. If if matters to you,
it's worth posting about.
I remember being crushed a few years ago when I lost one of a pair
of earrings that were also fairly expensive. It just fell out
sometime during the day (probably got caught on my hair), couldn't
be replaced, and I was very sad.
Lora

I feel really horrible and feel destined to have a horrific, horrible
Valentine's Day.
I wore earrings today that I never wear because they are so expensive
($300) and I just found out that one of the big stones in one earring
fell out. I've been crying my eyes out ever since and since I got them
from Shopnbc.com, I went there to see if they still sold them. They
did, but they're sold out and what other stone choice was left, (my
earrings are mystic topaz) are only 15 left of those (amethyst) and
those are on clearance. So my beautiful anniversary earrings from last
year are ruined......never to be replaced.
My original idea for this post was to say Thank You to those of you so
far, Lora, debbie, Pat, for responding to my post and trying to make me
feel better. I'm sorry for adding another thing (reason) to get
sympathy.
Hugs,
Cathy1

Wow.. Sharon's package got there fast! I only mailed mine yesterday, and it has
further to go so I am certain you won't have it tomorrow. I sent two sets, some
separates, and some protein bullets. (Don't be too quick to thank me for the
bullets... they are icky, but only 3 oz to gag down)
Pat
--- On Wed, 7/9/08, Judy R. <losingforlife08@...
From: Judy R. <losingforlife08@...
Subject: Re: Re: [WLS Friendship & Support] Sharon/package

Same to you, Sharon!
Jill
-25.9

Cathy,
I am so sorry you are having such a hard time. You don't need to feel
ashamed. No one here is going to judge you. You are doing well to realize you
have a problem when you have only gained 10 pounds. Some wait until they have
gained much or all of their weight back so you are already doing something to
stop this cycle. Your surgiversary is a big deal, and you do have a lot to feel
proud of and celebrate. Allow yourself to feel good about your successes while
still realizing you have some work to do. We are all here for you. Please don't
ever feel bad about posting. We can all learn from your struggles too. We are
here to help each other. I hope your counseler will be able to get you back into
his/her clinic soon. I will keep you in my prayers.
Debby
cathymonsell <Sarrah345@...
Dearest Friends,
I've been "gone" for a long time. I've been suffering with some
mental health issues, and put on different medications and was even
recently put in an eating disorder program, which I quit after two
days.
I've been binge eating for awhile now and I've gained back about 10
or so pounds. I feel like such a failure and I've been so ashamed to
admit to people, friends, and my doctors that I'm not the "perfect
gastric bypass patient" like they think I am. I wanted so bad to be
as successful as possible in this journey. I have obsessive
tendencies and it was helpful in researching this surgery, learning
everything I could about it, and then afterwards, following
every "rule" to the "T" and measuring and doing everything perfect.
My downfall started on Halloween. I binged on candy and it made me
sick. But ever since then, even though the foods I've been bingeing
on make my system sick and me sick.....I still do it. My counselor
and psychiatrist are working with me, and they were the ones who
thought I'd benefit from an outpatient intensive 20 hour a week
eating disorder program. I went there, but I didn't belong there, I
was told I couldn't say I had gastric bypass surgery, or show any of
my pictures to anyone and we even had to eat "dinner" together and
get escorted to the bathroom, I swear it was a nightmare because my
problems aren't the same as the anorexic girls there nor were they
the same as bulimic girls in the group.
My one year surgiversary is on February 22, 2008. I should be so
happy at what I've accomplished in a year, but I am down on myself
that I have been faltering so bad, and I've felt so alone. I was
ashamed to tell my story here and I finally figured out that HERE is
where I need to be. I need daily encouragement and support and I
have to have it so I can get back on track.
My psychologist and psychiatrist closed out my "case" since I went
into that eating disorder program....so they have to do a bunch of
paperwork to get me back into their clinic. It also doesn't help
that my counselor is leaving the clinic for good and I have to start
over with a new therapist. She doesn't even start until March 1st.
Dear friends, I need your help to get back on track. My friend
Doreen who just had the surgery......told me that I didn't ruin all
my success, that it's just a bump (or detour) in the road for
me.....and that I can get back on track. She's right. My support is
here and my friends are here. I need all of your help!
I'm sorry to unload all of this on you all at once, but I was so
ashamed for such a long time, and I felt so bad at what I've been
going through and doing for the last couple of months. I've felt
like such a hypocrite.

Cathy, I am sorry that things have continued to be difficult for you
but I am SO glad that you've decided to come back! You know that we
will do EVERYTHING we can to help encourage you (or kick you in the
butt if you think that will help!).
You're absouletly right... the issues you are struggling with are
NOT like those of someone who is anorexic or bulimic, and I am so
glad that you had the courage to decide it was not right for you.
(I am currently putting together a proposal for a paper at our state
counselor's conference in November that helps counselors understand
the unique issues that WLS cleints can face post-op.)
Your friend is right... it is just a bump in the road. Most
importantly, it does NOT mean that you are a WLS failure!!! We ALL
have to find ways to overcome the demons and bad habits that made us
obese in the first place. The surgery does not magically fix those
things. For some that is easier than others. Over the past month,
I have been extremely stressed and have found that (for the first
time since surgery) I have REALLY struggled to not snack to comfort
myself.
We are here for you. Some people advocate the "5-day pouch test"
(I think they put it in the files section here). I would personally
suggest that you just go back to the very basics from when you were
first post-op... eating protein, protein, protein... followed by
water, water, water... (and then add some fruits and veggies to your
meals if you have room after you eat your protein). No white foods,
limited carbs, limited sugars. It occurs to me, though, that
the "pouch test" is pretty structured... and maybe the structure
might help you get back on track.
You CAN do this! We will help in any way we can.
hugs,
Lora

Dearest Friends,
I've been "gone" for a long time. I've been suffering with some
mental health issues, and put on different medications and was even
recently put in an eating disorder program, which I quit after two
days.
I've been binge eating for awhile now and I've gained back about 10
or so pounds. I feel like such a failure and I've been so ashamed to
admit to people, friends, and my doctors that I'm not the "perfect
gastric bypass patient" like they think I am. I wanted so bad to be
as successful as possible in this journey. I have obsessive
tendencies and it was helpful in researching this surgery, learning
everything I could about it, and then afterwards, following
every "rule" to the "T" and measuring and doing everything perfect.
My downfall started on Halloween. I binged on candy and it made me
sick. But ever since then, even though the foods I've been bingeing
on make my system sick and me sick.....I still do it. My counselor
and psychiatrist are working with me, and they were the ones who
thought I'd benefit from an outpatient intensive 20 hour a week
eating disorder program. I went there, but I didn't belong there, I
was told I couldn't say I had gastric bypass surgery, or show any of
my pictures to anyone and we even had to eat "dinner" together and
get escorted to the bathroom, I swear it was a nightmare because my
problems aren't the same as the anorexic girls there nor were they
the same as bulimic girls in the group.
My one year surgiversary is on February 22, 2008. I should be so
happy at what I've accomplished in a year, but I am down on myself
that I have been faltering so bad, and I've felt so alone. I was
ashamed to tell my story here and I finally figured out that HERE is
where I need to be. I need daily encouragement and support and I
have to have it so I can get back on track.
My psychologist and psychiatrist closed out my "case" since I went
into that eating disorder program....so they have to do a bunch of
paperwork to get me back into their clinic. It also doesn't help
that my counselor is leaving the clinic for good and I have to start
over with a new therapist. She doesn't even start until March 1st.
Dear friends, I need your help to get back on track. My friend
Doreen who just had the surgery......told me that I didn't ruin all
my success, that it's just a bump (or detour) in the road for
me.....and that I can get back on track. She's right. My support is
here and my friends are here. I need all of your help!
I'm sorry to unload all of this on you all at once, but I was so
ashamed for such a long time, and I felt so bad at what I've been
going through and doing for the last couple of months. I've felt
like such a hypocrite.

Awww, thanks Sharon! Same to you.
Does it feel strange to you not to eat chocolate today? I got some adorable
chocolates wrapped in vintage paper (Like 1800's) for my children. They are
beautiful and when I handed them out, I felt left out of the celebration. It is
odd to me...I did not have this issue at Christmas (and we still have some of
that candy lingering in the house!).
But Happy V Day!
Lisa A
Sharon Buffo <septsweety@...
Just wanted to wish everyone a Happy Valentines Day!!!
~*Sharon XOXO*~
"THIN feels better than FAT tastes!"
Lap RNY 7/30/07
HW242**SW232**CW168**GW125-130
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Lisa A
284/271/173/135

Just wanted to wish everyone a Happy Valentines Day!!!
~*Sharon XOXO*~
"THIN feels better than FAT tastes!"
Lap RNY 7/30/07
HW242**SW232**CW168**GW125-130
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Paying users do not have this message in their emails.
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Jill,
I am sure this has been answered, but you go with the label. The
book is an average of similar items, but the can covers what's in the
can.
Also, I noticed your weight seems to be slipping downwards. That's
great, at least you aren't stuck or gaining. Good job!
Lizanne

Jenn,
How much longer until you have a better idea of what you will be
doing? And who will be doing it?
Lizanne

debby, where did you buy the protein bullets you started taking before the
surgery? any flavors you like more than others? did you try that unjury stuff
too?
judy
debra hill <debbyk9009@...
Lora <cicerogirl@...
decision since my job is
about to go away and I don't yet have a new one (and since 2 of my
therapy clients are "feeling better" and have discontinued therapy
at least for now), but I have been fighting depression the past few
weeks because of the things I am addressing in my own therapy,
trying to look for a new job, trying to build my client load, the
recent slow-down in the rate at which I'm losing weight, etc...
So... I went out and spent every penny of my income tax "refund"
(remember, this is YOUR money... you just loaned it to the
government interest-free last year... so it isn't really
a "refund")... on a new LCD HD TV! It's a Sony XBR5 -- it's their
top-of-the line, but I got it in the smallest size it comes in...
but that's still 40"!!!. It is amazing in style and in picture
quality. It will be delivered sometime on Friday, but I will need
to have my brother come over this weekend to help me get it out of
the box, get it up on the entertainment center, etc. (because of my
alien).
I got it at a REALLY good price online, and paid nothing for
shipping. Hey, if I'm going to be unemployed and depressed and
watching TV all day, I might as well watch a really NICE tv. Uh...
right...?!? LOL What the hell, it made me feel better.... and it
will continue to make me feel better as long as I don't think about
what an extravagant "splurge" it was.
Lora

Wow, Lora! I've heard those are really nice! I hope you enjoy it!!
I'm glad you're getting some help to unbox it and set it in place.
Jill
-25.9

Did the book specify that brand? Calorie count varies from brand to brand
because of what is added. Check more than one source (there are a million
online) to see what the count is for rinsed beans.
Pat
Jill <jsplds@...
Okay, I'm confused!
Tonight I was making a new recipe, so I was carefully recording the
calories per the nutrition labels from the canned beans I was using.
Because the beans had to be rinsed and drained, I checked my
nutritionist-recommended Food Counts book (by Corrinne Netzer) to see
if the calorie count changed once the liquid was no longer included
(not that it should make that much of a difference). The book stats
were higher than what the nutrition label shows.
So, thinking that I would be able to measure the drained contents of
the beans and record the yield/calorie info for future use in other
recipe calorie tallies, I measured the drained beans. Apparently, the
calorie count on the can doesn't include the liquids, because the
measured drained contents equals the number of servings on the
nutrition label.
For 1/2 cup of beans (no liquid), the nutrition label says 80
calories, the book says 110 calories.
Which one should I trust?
Jill
-25.9

Okay, I'm confused!
Tonight I was making a new recipe, so I was carefully recording the
calories per the nutrition labels from the canned beans I was using.
Because the beans had to be rinsed and drained, I checked my
nutritionist-recommended Food Counts book (by Corrinne Netzer) to see
if the calorie count changed once the liquid was no longer included
(not that it should make that much of a difference). The book stats
were higher than what the nutrition label shows.
So, thinking that I would be able to measure the drained contents of
the beans and record the yield/calorie info for future use in other
recipe calorie tallies, I measured the drained beans. Apparently, the
calorie count on the can doesn't include the liquids, because the
measured drained contents equals the number of servings on the
nutrition label.
For 1/2 cup of beans (no liquid), the nutrition label says 80
calories, the book says 110 calories.
Which one should I trust?
Jill
-25.9

Naomi, that was too funny!! Thanks for sending that to the list!!
Jill
-25.9

Welcome back Susan, and welcome to the losers lounge!! Wow.. we sure learn a
lot about each other's fantasies... would you also want this motorcycle cop to
have handcuffs?? Hmmmm?? LOL
That's wonderful that you didn't have much time to think about anything, I
think the waiting is the worst part! I told the anesthesiologist about my
endoscopy fiasco when they didn't adequately sedate me, and I don't know what
this guy gave me, but I don't remember one word of the conversations I had in
holding! My husband told me things I said and asked, but I swear I have NO
memory of it.
That's great that you don't have much pain.... I didn't either, not even the
shoulder stuff. They say you can walk that off though.
The cath is the pits.. hard to walk with. I had mine until about 4 hours
before I went home, and then had to pee on my own before I could go.
Anyway... it's great to have you back and to hear that you are doing well :)
Pat
Susan Greggain <sgreggain@...
Is there a cabana boy dressed like a motorcycle officer? If so I could use
a lttle pampering here. There is no hurry, I'm not feeling any pain except
for in my shoulders where I am sure I have a lot of air gases. I know walk,
sip and rest. I have had really no problems except that my kidney and
bladder went to sleep and wouldn't go so after 8 hours they had to re-cath
me. Finally I went and they let me go home on Tuesday afternoon I have
slept a lot since then. Have not heard anything from My sweetheart since he
was to leave Ghana, I just get a hold of him through his phone or computer.
Oh yes and remember when I told you my check in was 10:30 and surgery was
1:00. I am a cronicly early person so I was there at 9:20 and they said no
my surgery was changed to 10;30 so raced me in got me ready and I wasa gone
that quick!
Susan G.
Vacaville,CA
HW/SW/CW/GW
303/212/ /135

Hi Susan!
Welcome home to the Loser's Lounge! I'm glad you're feeling good!
Dawn in PA
Lap RNY 06/27/07
305/278/178/140
HW/SW/CW/GW

Amy,
I am stunned that you are getting Motrin. NSAIDs are a big no-no
after GBS. They will attack your pouch systemically (bloodstream)
and often cause ulcers.
One of the guys in my live support group almost died a couple of
months ago from taking Motrin. (Perforated ulcer) Are you sure your
surgeon okayed it?
Not trying to freak anyone out, this ban on NSAIDs is what I have
heard from EVERY Dr./group. Never had one say it was okay
Jeannie

Is there a cabana boy dressed like a motorcycle officer? If so I could use
a lttle pampering here. There is no hurry, I'm not feeling any pain except
for in my shoulders where I am sure I have a lot of air gases. I know walk,
sip and rest. I have had really no problems except that my kidney and
bladder went to sleep and wouldn't go so after 8 hours they had to re-cath
me. Finally I went and they let me go home on Tuesday afternoon I have
slept a lot since then. Have not heard anything from My sweetheart since he
was to leave Ghana, I just get a hold of him through his phone or computer.
Oh yes and remember when I told you my check in was 10:30 and surgery was
1:00. I am a cronicly early person so I was there at 9:20 and they said no
my surgery was changed to 10;30 so raced me in got me ready and I wasa gone
that quick!
Susan G.
Vacaville,CA
HW/SW/CW/GW
303/212/ /135