laurac82101
Please don't let my experience change your perception or decision on having this surgery. Everyone's body is different and unfortunately mine just didn't like what I did!! I have had a lot of new pre-ops asking if I hold my surgeon responsible. At first I wanted to blame anyone I could, but I was so sick and with so many surgeries (not to mention all the medicines I was on) I just wanted to blame everyone. Then the death of my Dad just pushed me way over the edge. I love Dr. Miles and I have trusted him with my life on each occasion and should I need another surgery I will go to Dr. Miles. He is wonderful and for me to still be here alive is proof enough!!!
My experience has been very eventful since my original surgery in 2001. I had no idea how sick you can become after having this surgery. I know the odds are very minimal but if you are in that 2% group it is a very major deal. I pray for you all who are beginning your journey and just know I was so excited about having this surgery and all the changes it was going to make in my life. I am still not at a point where I am well, but each day is better and will continue to get better. My weight loss has been wonderful, but I am still unable to eat and still difficult with my fluids. I am not being negative to anyone I am just saying be prepared incase you are in that small percentage because I was not and it can really be a shock to you as well as your family. I hope my experience can help someone.
I am almost 3 years out and still having trouble with food. I still take phenegran daily and now they have added Zofran (its a wonderful drug but very expensive they usually give to cancer patients for nausea) twice a day and is helping. Like I have said before I am NOT being negative for anyone, I am just letting everyone know that things can go wrong (or better yet not as you have planned them) but for the most part the surgery did what Dr. Miles had planned for me (woohoo) I just had unbelievably bad luck!!! If you have any questions feel free to ask. Everyone take care and hope to see everyone soon!! Love, Laura
Here is my journey:
6/26/01
I WENT TO THE LOCAL SEMINAR IN BIRMINGHAM AND I LOVE DR. MILES. HE ANSWERED ALL THE QUESTIONS AND HE EXPLAINED ABOUT ALL THE PROS AND CONS. I MET SOME WONDERFUL PEOPLE THERE AND I ALSO MET RONA, SHE IS A WONDERFUL, HELPFUL PERSON. EVERYONE WAS HONEST ABOUT ALL THE EXPERIENCES (GOOD AND BAD) DEBORAH IN DR. MILES OFFICE WAS ALSO AT THE SEMINAR AND I TOLD HER I REALLY WANTED TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT. SO I TOLD HER I WOULD CALL TOMORROW AND SEE WHEN I COULD COME IN FOR A CONSULTATION.
6/27/01
I CALLED HIS OFFICE TODAY AND I WAS ABLE TO GET MY CONSULTATION VISIT TOMORROW (6/28). CAN YOU BELIEVE IT, I AM ONE STEP CLOSER.
6/28/01
I MET WITH DR. MILES AGAIN AND HE IS SO NICE, WE SPOKE FOR ABOUT 30 MINUTES ONE ON ONE AND HE ANSWERED EVERY QUESTION AND ALSO TOLD ME ONCE AGAIN THAT IT WAS A "MAJOR SURGERY" MAKING SURE THAT I WAS READY TO COMMIT. AND OF COURSE I AM, AFTER HE WAS SURE I WAS SERIOUS, HE MADE ME AN APPOINTMENT WITH A SPECIALIST,
LAB WORK AND A CHEST X-RAY. I GO 7/02 FOR ALL OF THAT.
I WILL KEEP EVERYONE POSTED. HIS OFFICE HAS ALREADY REQUESTED ALL MY WEIGHT RECORDS FROM THE DOCTORS I HAVE SEEN IN THE PAST 10 YEARS, SO HOPEFULLY THAT WILL BE ENOUGH FOR INSURANCE.
6/29/01
I WASN'T GOING TO DO A DAILY LOG, BUT I DECIDED THAT MAYBE I HAD BETTER SO THAT WHEN THE DAYS ARE HARD I CAN LOOK BACK AND REMEMBER THE DAYS WHEN I WAS COUNTING DOWN TO THE SURGERY AND REMEMBER HOW BAD IT WAS. I WILL KEEP EVERYONE POSTED.
7/04/01
MY TESTING DATE CHANGED FROM 7/02 TO 7/05 SO I WILL UPDATE AFTER I GO TOMORROW.
7/05/01
WELL I HAD ALL MY TEST DONE TODAY AND I WAS VERY SUPRISED IT ONLY TOOK 1-1/2 HOURS GOSH I THOUGHT IT WAS GOING TO TAKE ALL DAY. WELL ONE STEP CLOSER. THANKS FOR ALL THE E-MAILS.
7/08/01
I JUST WANTED TO THANK EVERYONE WHO HAS BEEN E-MAILING ME AND SHARING THEIR EXPERIENCES WITH ME. IT HAS BEEN GREAT TO GET ALL OF THIS INFORMATION PRIOR TO SURGERY. I GO TUESDAY TO SEE THE INTERNIST (HOPEFULLY THIS WILL BE MY LAST DR.) THEN I GO ON WEDNESDAY TO THE NUTRITIONIST. MY FAMILY SEEM TO BE ALOT MORE SUPPORTIVE NOW THAN THEY DID WHEN I FIRST MENTIONED IT TO THEM. BUT THE MORE INFORMATION I FIND AND RELAY TO THEM THE MORE COMFORTABLE THEY SEEM TO BE. I WILL KEEP EVERYONE POSTED.
BYE FOR NOW.
7/10/01
WELL, I MET WITH DR. THOMAS TODAY, HE WAS VERY NICE, SPENT ABOUT 30 MINUTES WITH ME MAKING SURE I WAS READY FOR SURGERY WROTE ALOT WHILE WE WERE TALKING THEN DID THE EXAM (LIKE A PHYSICAL) AND THEN SAID HE AGREED WITH DR. MILES AND WOULD WRITE A LETTER RECOMMENDING ME FOR SURGERY!! YAHOO!!! NEEDLESS TO SAY I HAVE BEEN IN A GREAT MOOD ALL DAY! I GO SEE THE NUTRITIONIST TOMORROW AND I TALKED WITH DR. MILES OFFICE TODAY, AS SOON AS THEY RECEIVE DR. THOMAS' LETTER THEY WILL SEND ALL PAPER WORK TO INSURANCE, SO HOPEFULLY THAT WILL GET SENT BY NEXT WEEK. KEEP YOUR FINGERS CROSSED.
7/11/01
TALKED TO DEBORAH IN DR.MILES OFFICE THEY ARE SENDING PAPERWORK TO INSURANCE COMPANY TODAY. KEEP YOUR FINGERS CROSSED. I WENT TO SEE THE NUTRITIONIST TODAY AND IT WAS VERY HELPFUL. ATLEAST I KNOW NOW WHAT I CAN AND CAN'T HAVE. DR. MILES ALSO CAME IN DURING OUR MEETING. I WAS REALLY IMPRESSED THAT HE TOOK THE TIME TO COME. ALSO MET A COUPLE OF LADIES HOPING TO HAVE SURGERY AND GAVE THEM THIS WEBSITE ADDRESS. I HOPE IT HELPS THEM AS MUCH AS IT HAS HELPED ME.
7/17/01
JUST A REMINDER FOR EVERYONE IN THE BIRMINGHAM, AL AREA WE HAVE OUR GROUP SUPPORT MEETING ON SATURDAY 21ST @ MCE HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE.
7/21/01
Hi everyone! sorry about the "caps", I read on the message board, so I will try and do better! I finally got to meet alot of wonderful people today at our local support group meeting, there were alot of inspiring stories I hope to be able to add mine soon. I am officially Laura Morris' Angel, so I will keep you updated (she has surgery August 6th)
7/24/01
Well I got some pretty bad news today, somehow blue cross and my doctors office did not correspond correctly on fax numbers so all my paper work had to be re-faxed today so I am starting over from today. Deborah in Dr. Miles was up front with me and very upset, you would think she is the one waiting for approval ha ha! I really recommend this Dr. along with his office staff they are just great, they always return calls and they stay on top of the insurance companies. I hope I have good news to report next time! Everyone be safe and all pre-ops best wishes!!!
7/29/01
Hi all I hope everyone is doing well, good luck to all who have surgery this week, we will all keep you in our prayers. Nothing new to report, I have been reading profiles each day just hoping my battle with insurance will be as easy as some that I have read. Everyone have a safe week and I hope to give you an update real soon! Our local support group is having a meeting August 3rd @ Medical Center East hope everyone in the B'ham area can attend, hope to see ya there.
8/03/01
Well still no news from BC/BS, but they said I was in the second stage of review, whatever that means. I guess it just seems like it is taking forever, but from their records they are only showing that they have had my information for 1-1/2 weeks, I am just so anxious to get started with my new life. I will post more as soon as I hear from them. Please remember Laura Morris on August 6th, she will be @ MCE her surgery is scheduled for 7:00 a.m. Good Luck Laura!!! Best wishes to all post-ops this week. Also, Kristi Brooks had her surgery this week and is at MCE so if anyone has time stop by and give her some support.
8/04/01
Sorry to all that I didn't make the support meeting, (my husband had to work late and no babysitter) So I apologize to all my Chatroom/e-mail buddies, I promise I will make better arrangements on the next Friday Meeting!!
8/07/01
I AM APPROVED!!!! When Deborah in Dr. Miles office called me I knew something was up, but I thought she was going to tell me I was Denied, but when she told me I was approved I just sat there and cried. Thank you so much to everyone who has showed me their support. I also went to the hospital and I saw Laura Morris (who if I didn't know she had just gone through major surgery You would not have known) she looked wonderful She is suppose to go home tonight, I also checked in on Vickie Roden, wow she looked great too, she gets to go home tomorrow.
My surgery date is scheduled for August 21st, so I can't wait to meet all of you wonderful people on the other side.
I am just so excited, I can't believe I was approved. I have so much to do in the next two weeks. I have an appointment to see Dr. Miles on Thursday so I am sure he will give me all the details then, I just really want to stress how easy it has been for me with the help of my local support group, and Dr. Miles and his staff. They are just so wonderful and I would recommend them to anyone in the Birmingham area who is planning or even thinking about having this surgery. And of course my Angel Laura Morris, even thou she came home from the hospital today she has already e-mailed me, Laura thanks so much I wish you a speedy recovery. And a BIG thank you to Rona Scott our local support group leader, if you haven't met Rona you just have to she is just the greatest. I will update everyone on Thursday.
8/08/01
Well, it's for real My official surgery date is 8/21/01. I go for preop test 8/15, I go and see Dr. Miles tomorrow so I will update tomorrow.
8/09/01
Hi all, I met with Dr. Miles today and everything is a go for the 21st! I have my pre-ops on the 15th @ 9:00 a.m. and I am first on the surgery list so that is a good sign. Two other ladies were approved the same day I was Mary Denty and Debra Pierce please stop by there surgery page and give them some support. I hope everyone is doing well this week and I just can't wait to be on the other side. All my love.
8/14/01
Okay I believe I was the one who said I wouldn't get nervous I just wanted the surgery WEEEELL let me tell ya I am so nervous!I haven't thought of anything but this surgery for the past 3 months and the closer my date gets the more nervous I get. But I want this soooo bad. I just can't wait for the surgery part to be over and done then concentrate on my new life. My old habits are just awful! I don't even think I wanted anything sweet until I knew I couldn't have anymore. I know old habits are just hard to break. But at this point in my life I will do whatever it takes just to be able to button my pants without laying on the bed ha ha I want to take a little moment to let everyone know what wonderful ANGELS I have, Laura Morris is my #1 Angel and we have become very close because of WLS and she is just doing great since her surgery. I love ya and I hope you continue to keep on keepin on! While I was going to all the required classes I met Mary Denty who is my #2 Angel, Mary is just wonderful we got approved on the same day and her surgery is scheduled for October 22, I am just very blessed to have these two wonderful ladies as Angels. The other night I was scrolling down the message board and Lucky Bamotra was in need of an Angel. Lucky lives in California and I just e-mailed her told her I would help her anyway I could, well she in turned helped me more than I think I helped her! she is just an AWESOME lady and she is my #3 (long distance) Angel and please if you can stop by her profile she is just the nicest lady anyone could meet.
Well wish me luck with pre-op tests tomorrow as the tock ticks away. I am almost to the other side!
8/15/01
Todays test went just great (except for the hour wait in admitting) I even talked to Deborah in Dr. Miles office and she has already gotten the results back and everything is still a go for Tuesday. So I am busy busy busy trying to get everything done. I need some help on the protein drinks, I haven't found any that are low in sugar can anyone help me with that.
Oh and I about fainted when they weighed me today it said I gained 8 #'s well I went straight to the dr.s office and re-weighed and I did not gain any so ha I will make them re-weigh me before surgery. I don't want any extra pounds.!! I will keep you all posted.
8/17/01
Gosh it is getting really close to my surgery date! only three more days!! I just want to thank everyone who has helped me keep it together this week! Especially Laura Morris, I don't know what I would have done without her! Lucky thanks for the long distance wishes it sure has been nice to read your sweet thoughts and prayers every day! Rhonda Thomas was approved and got her surgery date today, so please stop by her profile and wish her well. Hope to see everyone at the local support meeting tomorrow!
8/18/01
Gosh today was just an awesome day! I went to our local support group and all of these wonderful ladies in our group were just so nice and thoughtful! Thanks for all the goodies, I will return the favor to each and everyone of you on your surgery dates! Love ya bunches!
8/20/01
Well I have already had my lovely cocktail and let me tell you words cannot describe how awful it was!! Well I have to be at the hospital by 5:30 a.m. just wanted to say a big thank you to everyone and I can't wait to meet you on the other side.
8/24/01
I made it!!! It was really not as bad as I thought it was going to be. I will give you all details, but I am just not up to sitting at the computer for very long. Thanks for everyone who stopped by and called.
I will post more later I promise, I checked my weigth this morning and I have lost 18 lbs.
wow! I would do this again in a heartbeat!
8/29/01
Sorry it has taken me over a week to get back, but wow I have been so exhausted, but here goes: I arrived at the hospital at 5:15 a.m. on the 21st and I signed in then the nurse calls me to the window and I thought I would sign something and then go and wait! wrong wrong wrong they took me back and I didn't get to tell my family, well I stay'd in the holding area while they checked my blood sugar weight and etc. then the anestesiologist came in then I just waited. Well the surgery dept. came to get me and I was almost in a panic because I hadn't told anyone good bye, well my wonderful family showed up in the nick of time and we got to say our goodbyes (you never know it could have been for the last time) but I was not emotional (that all took place the day before) I went to the surgery holding area and it took them about 20 minutes to finally get and I.V. in then she tricked me and told me she was going to give me some medicine but it wouldn't make me sleepy wrong that's the last that I remember and the only thing I remember was waking up in my room and everyone talking about my blue mouth!! (from the dye) that first day was not too bad, I thought it would hurt more when I tried to get up but it didn't it was nothing like my C-sections! whatsoever! Day 2 was a little stressful My I.V's blew a total of 4 well on the last one I ordered everyone out of my room because I looked like someone had beaten me (not their fault just bad veins) Oh and I forgot I got horrible leasions in my mouth so my mouth was sore they couldn't get an I.V. in and I was bleeding everywhere from all the wholes started crying you know the basic feeling sorry for yourself and then the nausea hit. Oh my Goodness, I think it was a combination of be without any fluids for about 4.5 hours, no medicines, and the sight of blood and the GAS!!, etc. But the sweet head nurse sent in a anestesologist (can't spell) and he got my I.V. started in my upper arm (didn't hurt) it only took two tries. So I had all my fluids I had to hit the morphine that night and the next day I woke up and some of the gas had past but all the nausea was gone and I walked and walked and walked! Then Dr. Miles (he is just AWESOME) came in and told me if I could hold down some liquids I might get to go home, well I did and I went home about 4:30 Thursday. The first night was really long, I haven't been able to sleep at all since I have been home but I am a week post-op today and it is getting better. I go to the doctor on Friday and get my staples out. I didn't realize I hadn't put my starting weight on here but since I am losing I guess I can now (that's bad) I weighed 308 @ Dr. Miles office before surgery, but the hospital weighed me in @ 329 it's hard to gain that much in 2 days but I will see when I weigh in on Friday Thanks to everyone who came to see me Laura Morris, Mary Denty you guys are awesome, Rona & Wade, Kara, Donna O. and everyone of you who called. You really kept my spirits up! Thank you so much. Thank you Lucky for keeping me writing even thou I wasn't feeling like it! Bless you !~
I will post again on Friday and let you know.
9/02
Sorry Friday ran into Sunday, I actually went to the doctor Thursday and got my staples out, well Friday one of my incisions opened and I had to deal with that, but it is just about closed up today. Friday was probably one of my worse days yet, I had the baby blues from H***! I think it started that morning when I tried one of the protein drinks and couldn't even get it in my mouth without gauging! So I was a little upset wondering how in the world I was going to get my protein in. I have come to my senses a little now and I am just going to keep trying different ones 'til I can atleast get it down.If anyone has any suggestions please send them my way! Today is my 12th day post-op and I am finally getting my wind back I didn't think it was going to take me this long so be prepared if you are pre-op. But it has not been bad and I would do it again in a minute. No regrets whatsoever. I still have the mind hunger but I have to make myself eat. Gosh it is so wierd. Dr. Miles says if I keep doing as well I don't have to come back to him for 3 months. But I am going to see my family doctor in a couple of weeks just to make sure everything is doing good. I will keep you all posted.
11/04
So sorry it has taken me so long to get back to the computer. Well alot happened since I last posted. On September 13th I had to have emergency surgery to repair some scar tissue which has been causing me not to be able to eat. I am not up to myself to go into all the details (I promise I will soon), I just wanted everyone to know I am home and doing better, I am still on a feeding pump/bag and they are still not sure if my gall bladder has to come out, but I will know on the 20th of this month. Thanks for all the post and I will try and give you an update weekly!!
11/25
Well my week turned into three weeks!! I finally came off the feeding bag last week and have already lost 12 lbs. I had a battle with my sugar but it has finally stabilized. Thanks to everyone for all their kind words, letters, e-mails and prayers. I believe all the prayers helped me make it through all the tough times. So far so good my gall bladder is staying. I will try and keep everyone up to date, I am finally able to eat!!!! Its a little scary but chex mix is my best friend now!!!
I hope everyone had a safe and happy holiday and I will talk to everyone next week.My total weight loss is 51 lbs. (I had to lose 20 lbs. twice 'cause of the feeding bag)
Love to everyone, Laura
12/02
Well I have reached another goal I have lost a total of 60 lbs. as of today! Wow I never dreamed I would be able to lose this much. (only have another 120 to go, but I am sure it will come.
12/17
Gosh how the time goes by!, I still have the groshong in, but I am doing better I have lost 65 lbs. so far the weight has really slow down, but I have not been eating alot or getting enough fluid in. I still stay pretty much nauseated everytime I eat something so I have really slacked off on trying to eat. Hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas.
12/23
Well, due to my not eating of course I got dehydrated, I went in the hospital this week for a short stay just long enough to get hydrated and get my blood level stabilized (I am still on blood thinners)I also had an Upper GI while I was there and everything showed up fine. (I am still having a little problem with eating) I am still nauseated when I eat/drink but it is getting better. Yesterday was a really good day for me, but I think I did a little too much and am paying for it today. I hope everyone has a very Merry Christmas.
12/26
I went and had my blood checked today and get the results tomorrow so hope everything is all behind me (so tired of feeling bad)I measured last night and have lost 34 inches total and weighed this morning and lost another 3 lbs. (total of 68) so that has lifted my spirits. Hope everyone had a safe and Happy Holiday. I will keep everyone posted.
12/29
Hi guys my blood work came back and it was okay so all is good there, I am still having some problems eating. I did pretty good today so hope it will clear up on its own. I lost another 2 pounds for a total of 70 pounds gone forever. I have gone down 2 full sizes in my shoe size. (I know what a place to lose!) I am not sure what size clothes I am in (not buying anything new just yet) but I can fit in my daughters shirts. I wasn't up to alot of celebration during Christmas so me and my dear sweet husband took the girls out today and bought them new mountain bikes. (not sure what the difference is but I think its just a fancy name for a 10-speed) so needless to say I am finally being able to make up for the past couple of months. I even drove today everywhere we went and that makes me very happy and I am sure Barry is glad he doesn't have to take me everywhere anymore. I will keep everyone posted, but things are finally looking up. lots of love
12/30
I just had to post again today, I have finally been able to eat/drink for the past two days and everything has stay'd down and I haven't felt any discomfort. So hopefully the New Year is going to bring me some welcomed health. Now if I could only get those nasty protein drinks down. (I think it would just be easier to buy a wig) I just can't get anything down. I am going to try and eat a little baked fish tonight so I will let you all now! I am 4 months out from my original surgery (and 3 months out from the open surgery) and this weekend has really been the best I have felt in a very long time. My incision is looking better and I am no longer sore, but if I sit in one position for an extended period of time I have a hard time straightening back up, hey but then again after I hit 30 its been harder and harder to do! ha ha I hope everyone has a Happy and SAFE New Year! Love to all, Laura
1/03/02
I am still able to eat (a tiny bit but a whole lot more than before) and my drinking is getting better, I can get about 30 to 40 ounces in a day (I know not enough)I am still on blood thinners and they make me feel so bad, has anyone else experienced this? Hopefully I will get the okay from my doctor to come off of them real soon and then the groshong can come out!!! I am really ready for that. Well my scales are roaming back and forth It shows I have lost another 3 pounds, but I am going to give it another day to make sure. Hope everyone is doing well and hope everyone had a safe holiday.
1/06/02
Well the scales finally stopped roaming and I have lost another 3 pounds!! So my total loss is 73 pounds!! I re-measured and lost a grand total of 40 inches.... All that I have been through it is finally letting me realize how thankful I am for this surgery. I am still not comfortable when I eat, but I am sure it will come and my fluids are a getting better as the days go by. Hopefully all the bad is gone and only good things are yet to come. take care.
1/09/02
Well believe it or not I have lost another 2 pounds for a grand total of 75 pounds!! I am going to try protein supplements in the next couple of weeks so I hope this will pick up my weight loss, but so far I have dropped 5 pounds this week. So I really should not be complaining Good luck to all that are having surgery this week!
1/12/02
Yesterday my sister came up (who has been gone for a week and a half) and made my day. She couldn't believe how much weight I had lost. I just told her well I have only dropped a couple more pounds since you have been gone. Well she kept saying no you have lost more. So we decided to measure me and I have dropped a total of 54 inches (that is a 14 INCH increase from the last time I measured)I guess when you see yourself every day you don't pay attention. Wow I am finally beginning to enjoy my WLS. Now if I can just get this groshong out maybe everyone will think I am healthy again! lol I am going to give it one more week then I am going back to the dr. and beg to have it taken out. I have been off the blood thinners (well I couldn't get hold of my dr. and my mouth was bleeding inside my lips so I took myself off, I know bad thing but I feel 100% better and I have more energy)I started walking each day and have actually felt like cleaning up after the girls. My goodness I think my laundry room had a tornado in it while I have been sick! took me two days to straighten everything up. I am still not able to bend over very well, but it will come in time. I did reach a milestone yesterday! I actually ate 1/2 of a sandwich (took about 1-1/2 hours to eat) but I ate the whole thing! (low fat cheese 1/2 a slice, 1/4 of a piece of roast beef) this is the first so called meat/lunchmeat I have eaten since surgery. I was a little scared, but I decided hey its about time. So for all the things I have been through I am finally beginning to enjoy my WLS now only if I can just keep from losing all my hair! It's stopped falling out as much as it was, but I had really thick hair no need to worry anymore because it is very thing now! Thanks for listening.
1/16/02
I lost another 3 pounds for a total of 78 pounds gone forever! I hope I have more weight loss in the next month I am getting closer to that 6 month mark!
1/20/02
Another 2 pounds gone for good! I am now down 80 pounds and tomorrow I will be 5 months out! I missed everyone at the local support group meeting yesterday, I hope I get to see everyone real soon.
1/25/02
I lost another pound! 81 pounds gone forever! Hope to see everyone real soon!
1/31/02
Hi guys, I finally got my central line out! woohoo!! I feel 100% better! I still have this awful crud (I can't stop coughing) it's going on two weeks now I am ready to give it to someone else! I went to Dr. Miles Monday and got the groshong out, his scales and my dr.'s scales I have been weighing on (every two weeks) were off about 7 pounds, but I weighed again today and they showed I had lost so I still have a weight loss of 85 pounds. (they put it in writing on my chart I have proof! ha ha) But I think I have lost more inches than anything, I have lost a total of 60 inches! (as I think about it you never really now how large you have gotten until you lose 85 pounds and 60 inches and you are still overweight! go figure! I hope everyone has a great week. I will keep you up to date next week.
2/03/02
The only thing I can say that has been good about this awful cold I have is that I have lost another 2 pounds for a total of 87 pounds, but my goodness it just keeps hanging with me. I am getting my liquids in, but food just is not apetizing rigth now. I wish all the pre-ops much love and prayers this week. Debbie Jeffries thank you so much for the package! I have 22 pounds to go to be under 200 pounds. Gosh I don't think I have been under 200 pounds in over 10 years! Since I got the groshong out last week my energy level has picked up and I don't have the poor pitifuls anymore, so things are looking up !!!!! smile~~~ he he Hope everyone has a great week!
2/07/02
another 2 pounds gone forever! ~smile~
2/10/02
I have officially lost 90 pounds. Wow! and I was able to actually get into a pair of 18 jeans (no laying on bed to zip)it really felt good. that is a long way from a very tight stretched size 28! Very very happy! ~on a sadder note~ The Birmingham support group lost a very kind and wonderful man this week (Johnny C.) All my thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
2/13/02
Hi all, I don't know what I am doing, but it is working I have lost a total of 94 pounds (and I weighed on two different scales)so I am officially at 214. wow never thought I would ever in a million years feel this great. I am able to eat a little more than I have been in the past, and of course I keep my fluids in (well most of the time anyway) I know this weight is going to start really slowing down, but I am enjoying it while it lasts. I still have about 85 pounds I need to get off, but I am going to finally start exercising (my stomach has been really sore when I have tried more than walking) so I am going to start the major exercises this week. Everyone have a great week!
2/15/02
Just had to share with everyone I went shopping today with the girls and bought them some clothes and when we got home I decided I would try some of them on, well they fit! I can't believe it! I still have a lot to lose in my stomach but just being able to fit in regular size clothing is a major break through for me! Just had to share with everyone! I am going to my first support group "meeting" since my last surgery in September! I can't wait
to see everyone.
2/17/02
I went to the meeting yesterday and it was just wonderful. It was so great to see everyone again! I weighed yesterday and thought maybe the scales were off so I decided to wait and weigh again this morning, and I have lost 98 pounds! can't believe it! 2 more pounds to go and I reach my first goal! Michelle Hagan you look wonderful and you are my inspiration! Laura & Kristy you guys, I just don't know how I would of handled the past couple of months! Thank you !!!! My height was 5'2" before surgery now I am back to 4'11" I guess I am shrinking like everyone else is saying! go figure!! lol. lots of love!
2/19/02
Today has been a really good day! I have received so many e-mails from new pre-ops who have joined our local support group wishing me well and congrats on the weight loss. Gosh it will just lift your spirits up! Even though I have been to Hell and back, my life is changing in so many directions I can't wait to see what is in store for me each new day. Each day something new changes and makes me wish I would have done this surgery about 10 years ago, I think my life would have been totally different if I would have. I have made some really true friends thanks to this site and have become CLOSER to the ones I already had. Thank you to everyone and I hope I will be a great loser from now on! And I love each and every one of you.
Love,
Laura
The scales moved again today!~ I think I am going to make my goal! keep your fingers crossed I will let you know forsure tomorrow! (I will just have to strip down to weigh! ha ha)
2/21/02
Okay it's official I have lost 100 pounds!! I think I have told everyone today! It feels really good! I know it will feel a lot better when I lose the rest! Love to all!
2/22/02
Okay another milestone! I went to Sam's Club today and bought a regular (not women's) XL size blue jean shorts and they fit! I could stand to lose about 5 to 10 pounds before going out of the house in them but hey they fit! ha ha It is just so different how in 6 months time you go from a size 28+ to a size 18 (maybe 16 now) it's just so awesome! If any pre-ops have any questions I will be happy to answer any questions! love to all!
2/23/02
I have lost another 2 pounds for a total of 102 pounds gone forever! I went to my sisters house today and they had some friends that haven't seen me since before surgery and could not believe how much weight I had lost! I just got a good chuckle out of it! I really could not tell that I had lost until all of my clothes had gotten to big to wear and had to go buy smaller ones. Gosh I actually think I will make it to my goal weight! Thank you Thank you Dr. Miles.
2/24/02
I just had to share this with everyone, I went shopping today (I know again....) and I just can't believe I am able to fit in regular size clothing. It has been so long since I have been able to do this! I think I was still in High School! WOW it just feels so great! My sister is a size 4 and I always hated it when we would have to go to a different section, I kinda enjoyed myself today. another minor milestone, but it still counts. The scales moved again tonight, but I am going to give it a couple of days and re-weigh before I say it out loud! don't want to jinx it! love to all!
2/25/02
Well, I have lost a grand total of 106 pounds. it is just amazing! I went to the support group meeting, but had to leave early (kids are bad sick) sorry everybody, but I will be there all day for the 16th meeting. Wes so glad to see ya there! Hopefully I will meet my next goal, only 3 pounds and I am under 200!!!!
3/02/02
Well, another pound gone forever, total of 107, I am getting there slowly but surely. Unfortunately, the kids gave me their cold and I have lost my voice, (well what was left of it from the surgery anyway) lol, I will manage. If not better by Monday, I am sure the dr. has some good ole shots in store for me. Have a nice weekend and I will post again soon.
3/07/02
Still not over this awful mess I have, not able to hold much down but I am getting there. The only good thing is I have finally gotten under 200 pounds, I now weigh 195. I think that is the only good thing that has come from this lovely cold the kids gave me! Still no voice!
3/09/02
I measured again and have lost 76 inches! I have 60 more pounds to go, and I am sure it will take me another year to lose, but that is just fine with me. Still not much of a voice just yet, I promise I will call everyone back just as soon as I have one!
3/11/02
Well I can't believe this, but the scales moved again! I have lost another 2 pounds for a grand total of 115 pounds gone forever, (193) gosh I just can't believe it. I was actually able to get in a pair of XL blue jean shorts today and wore them all day, never in a million years would I have believed I would ever be able to fit in them. Things are finally looking up!!
3/14/02
Well, now down 117 pounds re-measured and down 78 inches. I know I have lost a whole person! it is unbeleivable. Thanks for all the sweet e-mails, I am finally getting over this awful cold and hopefully will get my voice back soon!! well the kids hope I don't, but you know how that goes!!! And big news !!! I am no longer obese!! I am just very overweight!! ha ha I started with a BMI of 59+ and I am at 35 now!!!! love ya
3/17/02
Well I have dropped another 3 pounds and 2 inches so a total of 120 pounds and 80 inches gone!! We had our local support group meeting this past weekend, it was just great seeing everyone! Can't wait til the next one! love ya
3/27/02
This has probably been the worse week of my life. I lost my dear sweet Daddy Sunday Night. He died of a massive heart attack and nothing could be done to save him. My mother is just devastated. Thank you to everyone who has called and e-mailed. I hope to be back to as normal as possible sometime next week. Please keep my mother in all your prayers. Love to all
3/31/02
Happy Easter to everyone. We are managing and coping with our loss. Thanks again for all the thoughtful e-mails, calls, visits, etc. It has really helped. I am down another 8lbs (-128) but it's not as sweet anymore I really wish Daddy could have seen me at goal. love to all
4/06/02
Well I have lost another 2 pounds for a total of 130 pounds gone forever. Each day things are getting better. I really don't think you ever get over the loss of a parent, but just able to cope a little better. I haven't left my mom's side since Daddy died, and last night she told me she was a big girl. Well, I know that, but I feel like I have to stay up under her now, I know it will get better, hopefully. I can't believe I am under 180, gosh it's been almost 18 years since I have been this weight. I am still not able to eat like everyone else, but I am beginning to eat a little more. I go back to the Dr. on Wednesday so hopefully it will be a good report.
Love to all~
4/09/02
Well, if the tragedy of my Dad dieing wasn't enough, My husband goes into the hospital tomorrow to have angioplasty done. (he had a heart attack in '99 with stent placement) I feel like I am at the end of my rope. I think it is time for all the bad stuff to go far away from my house and never come back. (wishful thinking huh) So needless to say things are going to change around our house as soon as he gets out of the hospital. Before my surgery, and all the complications, he was doing so great but 7 months of eating/cooking on his own well we see what the answer is to that. (that goes to show you guys what a woman will do for ya!!!) Please just keep the prayers coming, my girls are really having a hard time dealing with the death of my dad and now their dad having heart problems again. Love to all~
4/14/02
Barry is doing much better, thank goodness for the miracle of medications. The new medicines seem to be working. So hopefully with time and a brand new diet, he will be getting back to his self. As for me, I have lost another 3 pounds, for a total of 133 gone forever, and thank you to everyone for all the sweet e-mails and cards. Hopefully This week will let me get caught up on all the stuff I have been weeks behind on, and all the clothes are coming guys, just hang on.!! Check out my new BMI!!!
4/15/02
Okay, I went and bought a new bra today and let me tell ya I did the happy dance today, I was a size 52-54 F before surgery, I bought a 36DD, wow! hubby is not to happy about the loss there, but too bad! ha ha just had to share it with everyone, I know not really what you wanted to hear, but hey that is a HUGE milestone for me!! love to all!!
4/22/02
Well, just wanted to give everyone a little update, I have lost another 5 pounds for a total of 135 pounds and 90 inches gone, I am coping with the loss of my Dad, it doesn't get easier, you just learn to cope a little better. I have more clothes I am sending out in the morning, so if you haven't gotten yours yet, they are coming, and some of you have more than 1 box. Thanks again for all the sweet e-mails, and cards they have really kept my spirits up. I love ya all. Laura
4/26/02
Hi all, hope to see everyone Saturday for our little get together can't wait to see you all!! Nothing new to report, just checking in, please let me know if everyone got their clothes I sent! love to all Laura
5/01/02
Okay, I have lost a grand total of 138 pounds and 93 inches. Gosh, I hope this doesn't slow down anytime soon, well maybe atleast after another 50#'s are gone!! ha ha don't want much do I!!! It was great seeing everyone Monday night, Dave you and Connie are really getting close, it won't be long now!! and Jennifer you hang in there, I am sure we will hear something from insurance any day now.
5/23/02
Well, a lot happened since I last posted, on May 7th I was rushed to the hospital for a ruptured hernia. They had to re-open me so I am very sad from all the progress I had made to be right back where I started. The pain is awful, I have a terrible pain in my right side, have been unable to get a hold of the doctors, every time I call of course one of the girls tell me they will have them call, but it's been almost a week and no call, so hopefully this will pass and it's nothing major. Thank you for everyone sending their love. After the death of my father I thought I was really getting on with my recovery and here I go with another set back, my Dad took care of me after the 1st emergency surgery and it has really been hard doing it all by myself. I guess I am not doing as well mentally as I thought I was. I sure miss him so much. Momma found some pictures of Daddy (Daddy of course being as he always is in a picture) and my heart just stopped. I haven't seen him or maybe put him out of my head and gosh it just tore my heart out but in a good way. But I am trying to deal with everything, just a little harder than I thought it was going to be. The only good thing that has come from this is that I am able to eat and drink now not a lot but a whole lot more than I was. I am having some problems with my incision again, it opened at the bottom, trying to doctor it the best I can, does anybody have any ideas, I have been trying to keep it real clean and covered. I'm not up to staying on the computer much right now, but I will be keeping in touch. My love to all..
6/02/02
I am doing better, but the loss of my dear sweet friend Dave has just been overwelming. My love and prayers go out to you Sylvia. I hope to get back in the swing of things over the next couple of weeks. I am pretty much staying nauseated again with everything, so here we go again. Chris Thomason I am so glad you made it safely to the other side. Kristy Brooks, Michelle Hagan, Lisa Hyche I really appreicate all the support yall have given me with the e-mails and calls checking on me. I will call as soon as I am up to it! Love you all.
6/29/02
Sorry it has taken so long to get back to the computer. I had to have yet another surgery on 6/7 they took my gallbladder out. I've had another knot come up on my stomach, so back to the doctor on Monday. I am so ready to finally get well and stay well. Thanks for all the support. Hopefully, they can fix this without surgery. Love to all.
7/06
Well, I postponed going to the doctor until this Monday, but I am feeling alot better, so maybe I won't need to go after all. I hope everyone is doing well and hopefully I can return all your e-mails soon. Kristy Brooks THANK YOU!!
7/13
Well, never went back to the doctor, Just staying very tired all the time, but I am sure it will pass. I am 5 weeks out from the last surgery so maybe I just need to give it a little more time. Carla Eason I am so happy for you congratulations!! I can't believe you got to go home the next day!! You and Laura Morris, you guys are Awesome!!! Hope everyone is doing well!
Love,
Laura
7/20/02
I haven't been able to hold food down for almost a week now and when I do I stay so sick. I am so tired of feeling like shit!! I am almost a year out (next month) but I ask myself everyday is it going to ever get better. I think since I haven't been eating very good the entire time since surgery is this why I am not able to eat and no I haven't gone back to the doctor, but at this point what's the use because I am NOT going back in the hospital. I am trying my best to be positive and to look at me compared to how I was before surgery I have come a long way, but at what price. I would just like to wake up one morning and feel good the whole day. ha ha boy am I pitiful today huh! It's just been a bad week. I get so hungry, then when I try to eat I stay sick the rest of the day and it's just not worth it. I am going to try and go to the local group meeting today, but just depends on how the rest of the morning goes. I hope I get my second wind back and my next post will be a little better.
Please keep Connie Glenn in your prayers she is having some complications and is in MCE now. Connie we are all keeping you in our prayers daily.
Love,
Laura
Just wanted to say thank you for all the sweet e-mails I received today. Thank you all! I saw Connie today and she really looks good, a little down, but Connie we are all praying for a speedy recovery. I wasn't able to stay for the support meeting today just too sick. Hope tomorrow is better! I have got new pictures so they will be up soon.
Love, Laura
7/23/02
I go for an endoscopy in the morning hopefully this will correct everything. I will keep you posted.
7/25/02
Thanks for all the sweet e-mails. I am still feeling really weak so I am going to make it realy short. I was impacted and have ulcers that had gotten inflamed. So Dr. Malik gave me some medicine to keep my tummy from burning all the time and to keep me regular. So guys if you aren't going to the bathroom atleast every other day please call your doc. Mine just got way out of hand. I had no idea how serious it could be. KRISTY B. you better listen!!!!! and you better call the doc!! I have been adding to my problems by drinking carbonation. I thought hell I can't eat I might as well drink what I want. well I was very wrong it just added to my problems! So I will just have a lovely glass of water! ha ha Hopefully the medicine will kick in and I can get on with my life. Dr. Malik wants me to try more "solid" foods even if they don't stay down at first. He says if I don't they will have to keep going in and stretching where the stricture was. So I am going to try. He told me no more potato chips! ha ha (if you don't already know that is about the only thing I have been able to get in the past 11 months!!) So maybe with 50% from the medicine and 50% on my part I will be able to see you all again!! I posted new pics so they should be up before long, not great, but atleast you get to see me! Love to all!
7/26/02
Gosh the medicine really seems to be helping. Still having a horrible time with solid foods, but I feel so much better. I guess my system just has to get use to food! ha ha never thought I would say that!! Thanks to all of you for all the e-mails.
8/01/02
So far so good with the meds. I am still getting real nauseated when I eat more than 1 bite at a time, so I am trying to eat a little bite then come back about 10 minutes later and get another. It's working a little better. I guess I have let myself get dehydrated again because I am trying to gulp again ooohh big no no. So I am really working hard on that. So glad to see how everyone is doing and I hope to see everyone at the next get together. Kristy Brooks CONGRATS on your 1st anniversary! You look so great! and just think only just a little longer and you'll get your TT!! and boy do I need one!~smile~
Laura your anniversary is coming soon. Can't believe it has already been a year and then again it seems like I have known you guys all my life. Take care!! (oh yeah look at my BMI!! woohoo it's a long way from 67)
8/05/02
They had to put my husband back in the hospital, started insulin over the weekend so hopefully this will get him feeling better. Please keep Kristy Brooks in your prayers, she is having her gallbladder taken out today. Jennifer Stallings I hope you are feeling better and I will give you a call later on this week. Love ya all
(finally got my new pics up)
8/08/02
Barry is finally home and we both seem to be doing better. Thanks for everyone e-mailing about my new "after" pic you guys are really sweet. Hope this is the last hurdle my family has to endure this year. I really feel good this week, just pretty tired. I tried crackers and 2% cheese yesterday, I was able to eat 2 crackers so things are begining to get better! (I really miss the potato chips, but I am trying all the new foods!) I am close to my year anniversay and of course my Wedding Anniversary is next week so I have really 2 celebrations in 1! I am just thankful each and every day to be here and to finally getting healthy. Love ya
8/10/02
Still doing pretty good with new foods, I still don't eat quite as much as I should, but it is getting better. I ate 1/4 of a sandwich yesterday (took me about an hour) but it stay'd down pretty good. I tried mashed potatoes today and they just sat like a rock, so I will not try them again for awhile!! Kristy Brooks so glad you are doing better and you really sounded great. please call when you are up to it!! love Laura
8/13/02
So many people have been writing asking me for details on what happened with my surgery and I really didn't want to scare anyone, but as one of my dear sweet friends advised me, it's better to let the pre-ops know than for them not to know. SO here goes: I was clicking right along until about 2 weeks after I had surgery (I had the original lap) I started throwing up and couldn't hold water down. I was put back in the hospital and they did A LOT of tests. Dr. came in my room about 10:30 p.m. that night really concerned about one of the tests. So he decided we couldn't wait so he took me into surgery. Problems occurred with my new pouch and my intestines. And as you all know he had started it out as Lap but had to be converted to Open. The next week is really kinda sketchy for me, I remember waking up in SICU they still had covers on my eyes, but I didn't know that I could hear people talking, but I still couldn't move and I thought I had really died, then of course one of the nurses rips the pads off my eyes and well then I knew I was okay. I was on a ventilator thinking I was absolutely going to die. The look on my husbands face, I will never forget. My Mom and Sister looked awful and you know when family comes in to see you (that never come unless something is really bad) well lets just say everytime I would look up there would be a different face! ha ha I felt like I was choking, of course I wasn't but at the time I didn't know what was going on. Then I guess later that day or maybe the next is when he told me they had to open me. I was devastated. But of course Barry said don't worry it will be fine. So these days are kinda foggy I know I was moved back up to the 6th floor and I stayed till Thursday and they told me I could go home. My family was very upset; my dear sweet Daddy even called asked me if I had lost my damn mind and wanted to know if the drugs had made my mind go too!!! I told him I was ready and I would be fine. (well he was right and I was wrong very wrong)Daddy nursed me when everyone went to work (we have an apartment in my parents house which has really helped since Daddy is gone)so Daddy really got to see the worse of it all. over the next 3-4 days I got really really sick. I couldn't breath and I kept falling asleep, I didn't eat or drink just couldn't do much of anything. if I stood up I had to have my two girls help me to the bathroom or to the recliner, at this point I still could not sleep in the bed. I was supposed to go back Monday to get my staples out so Barry and my sister had to practically carry me in the office I couldn't breath which was very obvious then Dr. comes in and asks whats the problem, well Needless to say I was immediately put back in the hospital and this is when they found out I had blood clots. First they put in a central line, guys let me tell ya, I was put to sleep the last time this was done I didn't even have tylenol this time and it felt like they were ripping my neck,heart and anything else I had right out. It was really bad. They took me into surgery and put in a groshong and I was put on a feeding bag (this was just the worse) (guys so important to move after surgery, can't say this enough) I stayed in the hospital most of September then I got to come home for my little girls 13th birthday on 10/11. I was sent home on home health and on a feeding bag/pump I stay'd on this until almost thanksgiving. It took me a very long time to get my strength back. Home health came twice a day, during that time I had numerous IV's and of course (I forgot the best part) My incision had to be re-opened to drain while I was in the hospital so it had to be packed every day (I wasn't strong enough at this point to do it myself and the nurses had to do it) Holidays came and went then at the end of January I was finally strong and eating a little so I got the groshong out. I have had a knot on my incision since I had come home. I just thought they moved stuff around when they did surgery and when I ate hey my pouch would poke out. WRONG WRONG WRONG. It was a hernia (I didn't know that at the time)Sorry left this part out, I had to go back into the hospital the week before Christmas because I had so much blood thinner in my system they were scared to let me go. I was given 4 pints of platelets and hydrated me and I went home the next day. (I wasn't aware I had to get checked after home health wasn't seeing me anymore, very very important!! If you are on blood thinners you have to have blood work and I had so many doctors they all thought the other one was doing that. But it was fixed and I finally got to come off of them. I was really making a lot of progress in all aspects then when I lost my Dad I think I just gave up. It is the worse thing I have every had to go through and I just haven't been able to grieve, I think if I let myself go I just won't be able to control my emotions. Well, I am coping with the loss of Dad and in May I say hey lets go cut the grass girls, well if you have hernia's this is not a very good idea. (Had I known that was what it was well that’s beside the point) Anyway I was rushed to the hospital by ambulance I hyperventilated (sp?) and my family was beside themselves. They had to repair 2-ruptured hernias and of course this was done open again. This surgery really kicked my butt! It was really bad I wouldn't wish this on anyone. This recovery is very slow. Then I start throwing up and having awful pain in my stomach. Of course when I get to the ER the doc there thinks I have gas. Well, thank god my doctors were listening to me and they found I had gallstones the next morning and I had my gallbladder taken out. So that was about 8 weeks ago give or take a day or two. I am finally getting better I had to have another endoscopy done a couple of weeks ago, but the medicine seems to be helping. Guys this is why when you ask me “would I do this again” these are the reasons I am not able to say yes (right now) maybe in a week or maybe tomorrow, but today I am just not ready. Gosh I am thankful each and every day to of lost the weight I have, but I really have to look at the strain it put on my family. Well sorry to of kept on talking but I had so many people asking I just decided it was about time. My Anniversary is next week, but is surely has been a very long year. Love to all
8/16/02
My 15th Wedding Anniversary was yesterday and of course my dear sweet husband bought me roses and a beautiful Angel Bear. (He snuck it all in of course with the help from the girls) So yesterday was a really great day. I even drank about 1/4 of glass of champagne! Damn I miss Margaritas!!! Still doing pretty good. I am trying my best to get off the Ambien. I have been on it for almost a year and can't sleep without it. But I am really trying to not have to use it anymore~~ it's time to move on. Over the past several months (when I had surgery) Barry had answered some e-mails but he deleted a lot of them. I was just wondering if everyone received all the clothes I had sent out it was back in May and if they fit. I have a lot of bigger size clothes if anyone needs any. I have some 18's and 16's also. There were so many people I sent packages to I can't remember just e-mail me. Well hope everyone has a great week.
Love,
laura
8/21/02
Today is my 1 year anniversary. My journey has been long, but I only have good thoughts for years to come. Love to all.
8/26/02
Okay guys it is count down week me and Barry are going on our Vacation to celebrate our 15th Wedding Anniversary and Praise the good Lord we are both Healthy and RARING to go!! ha ha I will let you guys know all the good stuff!! So Laura you and Kristy be waiting for all the good details!! I should be back next Wednesday!! Wow poor Barry has been waiting on this for a very LOOONNNGGG time! Have a great week.
Love, Laura
9/09/02
Gosh I can't believe it has been 2 weeks since I posted!! Well me and Barry had a WONDERFUL and refreshing time and lets just say shew we have both recovered!! hee hee, Guys I feel the best I have in a really long time my weight has kinda tapered off ( no complaints) I am still losing inches though since I have finally started exericising and pretty consistant with it. I go to a new doctor towards the end of the month for him to handle my blood work and my sugar problems, but I really feel but if I don't lose another pound can't complain. It's a hell of a lot better than 300+. I know before I have really been through a lot over the past year but you know, it really feels so good when people haven't seen you and then you run into them at a store and they are speechless. (really makes you feel good) My father in law came over to watch the Bama game and I guess it's been since my last surgery back in June that he last saw me and couldn't beleive it, just kept staring told Barry he better watch out!! ha ha Barry didn't appreciate that, lol... Me and the girls are getting our pictures done this week and I will post it then. just a little note I will be the short one, gosh they have both shot up over the summer, I guess they get their height from Barry cause they are both way taller than me now (which of course they love) Well guys just thought I would update hope everyone is doing well. Hope to see everyone real soon!! Laura and Kristy I think of you often hope we can get our schedules together real soon. I hope to get my car back this Friday then watch out!!!
Love Laura
9/19/02
Hi all just checking in. Nothing really new to report I am feeling great and hopefully will continue to!! Hubby got an all clear from Heart doctor this week so things are really looking up!! He is convinced all the extra "activities" has cured his heart problems!! ha ha oh well hey if it works okay!! Guys I hope everyone is doing well. My Mom bought her a new car over the weekend, bless her heart it was the 1st purchase by herself since Daddy died and I am so proud for her. Things are still kinda hard and hit you all at once when you least expect it, but for the most part we are surviving. Thanks for all the support. Oh and I did FINALLY get my car back. Have a great weekend! It's getting close to the Talladega race, can't wait~ I can actually walk without getting out of breath~ lol, love,Laura
9/30/02
Well guys a lot has happened since my last post. I have a hernia again. gosh it will never end! I went to Dr. Miles office last week and he was in surgery and Dr. Schmidtt saw me, and told me it was a possible hernia and wanted me to lose another 20 pounds before surgery... Well I had another appointment with my new Dr. He is at a different hospital, but my husband uses him and has done wonders with his sugar levels so I decided to use him and when he was examining me he found the hernia and another one along the incision of where my gallbladder was taken out and told me not to pick anything up or do anything that would cause me to strain. GEEEESE!! So I am just waiting for all my blood work to come back before I call Dr. Miles back again and to see what I need to do. Has anyone else had hernia's like this? and did you have the mesh put in with your hernia's I didn't with my first surgery, but I wonder if I can request it for this next surgery?? When I eat now it pokes out it fits in the palm of my hand and is very sore and uncomfortable, but not really painful. I will try and update you guys as soon as I know something.
10/05/02
Well guys, I will be having surgery on Tuesday for another hernia. Hopefully this will be the final surgery and I will be able to completely heal and continue with my life. I will be at MCE It will be a while before I am back at the computer. please keep my family in your prayers over the next week. (I will be having open surgery again and am not looking forward to it at all) Love to all
Laura
10/16/02
Gosh it has been a really painful week. I go tomorrow to get my staples out (19 total) I think I just need a zipper put in and it would be a whole lot easier!! lol. thanks for all the sweet phone calls and e-mails. i am not up to much just yet, but as soon as I am I will call everyone back. Well this final surgery made my decision for me. there will be no tummy tuck for me. i will just have to wear a girdle. No way this is it for me! Atleast Dr. Miles found the start of another hernia and was able to repair it while he was in there and he said everything else looked good. So maybe this will be the end for all the surgeries now. boy this one has really really kicked my butt. love to all laura
10/22/02
Guys, it's getting better day by day. I have a really BAD kidney infection, but hopefully I will get that cleared up soon. Thanks for all the e-mails. Shew this surgery has really, really been bad.
10/30/02
Well it is getting better, but my incision has opened and well lets just say YUCK!!! I do feel better, I have lost about 12 pounds since surgery so hey, that's something. I sure pray this is the last surgery. I am having a time with this incision though. I have just had a time with my incision from the get go, but I guess if I had been opened this many times I guess I would be a little aggrevated too! ha ha Thanks for all the e-mails and I hope to get back with you guys soon maybe in a week or so.
12/01/02
Gosh its been a long time since I posted. I have been managing the past month. I am just getting over pneumonia and recovering from this last surgery. Boy these hernia surgeries are something else. I sure wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy. Hubby and girls are doing great. Me and the girls actually cooked Thanksgiving Dinner (I supervised mainly) but I think it really went well. This is the first holiday since Daddy died so it has been pretty stressful and pretty tearful. Hope everyone is doing well and hope to talk to everyone just as soon as I can stay at the computer. Love to all
1/01/03
I went to the doctor last week and it was confirmed I have another hernia. I see the new surgeon on the 9th. I hope this will be the last surgery (as I have stated 6 times before) but I am praying this will be the last. It has been a very long and trying year. Hope everyone has a wonderul New Year. Love to all.
1/23/03
I go on the 28th for another CT scan and then surgery will be set. I will let you all know as soon as I know something. Hope all is well for everyone else.
2/16/03
I keep having set back after set back. More blood clots. I will keep everyone posted as soon as I can. The CT scan showed massive scar tissue and soft tissue damage so I am just going day by day. Love, Laura
2/25/03
Thanks for all the calls. I am dealing with situation that was delt to me and I hope to get back to everyone in the next couple of weeks.
Love,
Laura
4/30/03
Sorry it has been so long. The blood clots have gotten worse and major complications have come up, but I am on the mend now and pray this is the last major stepping block before I am better. Thanks for everyone who has called and special thanks to the members of this website, all the e-mails have really lifted my spirits. Love to all Laura
5/22/03
So much has gone on since I last wrote. I am doing a little better still having to deal with the blood clots and the shots, but its getting better. My husband had to have angioplasty last week and we are still not sure that it is going to work because of his blood pressures staying so high, so needless to say a lot of prayers have helped us so much!! Please everyone say an extra prayer for Dave Odem's family this week. He passed away a year ago on the 25th. Doesn't seem that long ago. He is missed tremendously. Love to all
6/21/03
Thanks to everyone for all the loving prayers for my family. Barry has finally turned the corner and was able to go back to work this week. I am doing better. Both girls have gone on the Atkins diet with Barry and have both lost 20 pou
About Me
Before & After
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