Lesa B.
1-19-01
Hi, I am 33 yrs old, I have a beautiful daughter who is 3 yrs old, and I am ready to get rid of this whole "she has such a pretty face" image once and for all. I'd rather not state my weight right now, mainly because everyone I talk to at work knows that I live on this site now, and I'd rather do it when I'm losing...lol
I've been on this web site so many times in the last couple of weeks! I can't believe what is in front of my eyes ~ I am truly amazed. Sometimes I read this and my eyes fill up with tears, other times I have a smile from ear to ear ... I know this surgery is for me.
I have been actively searching for a surgeon in my area, or even a little farther, who has all of the requirements I need. (takes my insurance, practices at a big Hospital, and will do the surgery Lap).
Anyway, I am hoping to have this surgery, if anyone is interested in emailing me any suggestions, testimonials, or just anything at all, I will be glad to receive ANY email at Darian3@aol.com . All feedback is welcome.
Well, the best of luck to everyone, and I hope to be updating this soon with some good news!
~Lesa
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1-28-01
Hi again...
I have been searching for a surgeon in my area and I am getting a little disappointed. I have given up hope on having the surgery done lap. There are only two doctors in my area that do this. Both do not take my insurance, one of which does not take any insurance, only works on an out of network basis. Um..hello, I dont have $20,000! LOL.
Ok, anyway, I have made an appointment with one surgeon for the end of May (just for a consultation) Believe it or not, this is the earliest I could get an appointment from ANY doctor in the area! And believe me, I've called them all! I was very disappointed with this. The surgeon who I really wanted at first, has a 14 month wait just for a consultation!!!!!!! Then surgery would be another 5 or 6 months. I can't wait that long, but I hope I am making the right decision in finding another surgeon.
(I am also looking into another surgeon who I would absolutely love to have,,,,we'll see) Why can't I be normal and just have a surgeon? lmao!!
Hope to be updating soon with some good news....
~Lesa
(Also, can we get some spell check on here? lol)
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1-31-01
Ok ... a nice person from this site I have been emailing back and forth with, Shirley, told me to check out Dr Gus Slotman. I tried to call a few times, just got an answering machine so I left messages. I kind of forgot about it since I was calling so many surgeons.Anyway, Shirley emailed me to le tme know that the Dr would be doing the surgey lap this spring. I called and spoke to his assistant Karen and OMG I have an appointment on February 15th!!!!! I can not believe it! She said that if I decided to go with Dr Slotman and did the open RNY I could probably have it done at the end of March!!!!!!!! I couldnt believe what I was hearing! I had her laughing at my reaction!
So this is my deal....two weeks for an appointment and two months for the surgery??!?!?!? UNREAL! I cant wait until my appointment to find out more information about the lap. If I wait for the lap then it surgery wont be until summer. (This is a hard debate....immediate gratification takes over sometimes)
Maybe I should demand that he performs the surgery lap in March....think that will work? OK OK I am out of control tonight....see ya soon with more updates! (Hey you - wake up, I know this is boring!)
~Lesa
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2/8/01
Hi, nothing really new to report...my consultation appt is next Thursday, can't wait!! I have to tell everyone, I go to everyone's page (and I mean EVERYONES)and print it for the ride to and from work. My friend I ride with reads to me or I read to her and we are so engrossed, it makes the hour-15 minute ride go muuuuuch quicker! We feel like we know each and everyone of you! We get so mad in the car and curse out the insurance companies!!! LMAO, we are dorks. :)
I have been thinking about the smoking thing....ugh. I quit four years ago when I got pregnant and started after 3 years. (What am I a crackhead?) I know, that is so dumb. Hopefully this time I can stop for good when I quit.
Ok, well I will update after the doctor's appt.
~Lesa
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2/15/01
Hi everyone,
Well, I had my consulatation appointment today with the surgeon. (Dr Gus Slotman) Everything went well, he was running an hour behind. (I was expecting that). His staff seemed very nice,the office was very busy. I was a little disappointed that his assistant Karen wasnt there today. Oh well Im sure I'll meet her soon enough. So anyway, a nurse came in and weighed me and I can't believe it but I lost 4 lbs. So Ive decided that I dont need the surgery. KIDDING! I just found it hard to believe that I lost, considering yesterday was Valentine's Day.
Anyway, Dr Slotman gave me script for an upper GI, but asked me to consider taking another attempt at Weight Watchers. He said that I am a very healthy 33 year old and this is a serious surgery. He wants me to be sure and think it over. So I am going to call Karen tomorrow at the crack of dawn and tell her I want it. LOL
I'll keep ya posted! If anyone wants to email me, feel free!
~Lesa
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2/22/01
Hi ya,
I called yesterday and scheduled an appointed for my Upper GI Series to be done. I called Karen and told her that I was going to do the surgery. I waited 6 days to call, and really thought it over. I also went to a seminar that Dr Slotman held this week with my roommate, on Gastric Bypass. It was good information, but I have to be truthfull, I think I could have answered almost every question that was asked from obtaining so much information from the website. The wealth of information on here is just invaluable. I have learned so much. I did get to meet Shirley, the woman who I've been emailing back and forth with from this website, that was nice. She is doing great, lost 92 lbs already!!!
Anyway, after I have my Upper GI test next week, hopefully I will be on my way...
Will update soon, but I try and wait for events to write or I would just rattle on and on and on....
Feel free to e-mail me any time...Darian3@aol.com
~Lesa
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3/1/01
Hi~
Well, I had my Upper GI done on 2/27/01....all I can say is EWE!
No, really it wasn't that bad. I went in at 8 am and waited a few minutes because the doctor was late. The Tech took me back to a dressing room and gave me 2 gowns to use (thanks!) and explained exactly what they were going to do. I have to say, this really makes a difference and they should explain everything everytime you have some testing done. Most people are scared because they don't know what to expect! Anyway, I then went into this room and she gave me two little cups, one had these little bead things and one with water. They told me to put bead things in my mouth and then swallow with the water, this will make you feel as though you need to belch, but try not to. So I did that, and I felt like I just chugged a 2 liter of soda, I was ready to bust. While you are doing this, you are standing up in this machine that is like a huge x-ray machine and they are checking out your esophagus (the bead things expand it so they can see). Then the fun part, you have to drink the barium. It tastes like a Mallox milkshake with a hint of banana for flavor. I was thinking, ok, I can drink anything, as long as I can chug it - wrong, this stuff is like sludge - no chugging. Then the wall you are leaning against becomes a table...then you just turn 738 ways and they check out your insides on this screen. (I checked it out ... pretty cool!). Right when you think you are done, "please drink more barium". That time I almost got sick, but I made it through.
So that is my drama. It was not bad over all.
On a downside, I got turned down for my short term disability today...I weigh too much. (don't ask...I can't even deal with the logic!)
OK...I'll update more soon.
See ya, ~Lesa
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3/10/01
Hi again
This week I've been trying to push things along a little bit. I called the Dr's office two days after I had the upper GI and they had a message that they were out of the office for 4 days. Bummer, but I really didn't feel disappointed, odd. So this week I called on the day they were to get back, still the same message. I left a message that I had called the lab that did the UGI and confirmed that they mailed it in. (they were suppose to fax it that same day) I called a few more times,didn't leave messages. Called again on 3/7 and spoke to Karen, the Dr's asst. She said not to worry that she probably had it and she would call me back at the end of the day. It was getting close to the time the office closed, so I called her to inquire, she said she didnt see it yet. She did say that they had a stack of things to go through though from being out of the office for a while. She told me she would call me when it came in,..........grrr. I hate waiting. So, I called her on Friday, late afternoon. I told her that I would give her $10,000 for a tenative surgery date, she laughed and put me on hold, came back and said she had my paper work, it was normal. She pulled out her scheduling book and low and behold ---------I HAVE A DATE~!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! May 7th!!. I actually could have had the middle of April, but our busy time is at the end of the month at work, so being the wonderful employee I am, I waiting until May. (I hope my boss reads this...brown noser).
So thats all for now. I will update soon.
~Lesa
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3/20/01
Hi, It's me again- lol
Well, nothing really new to report. I did call the Dr's office back and asked to be moved up. I am now on for May 2, pending insurance approval. This is only 6 wks away, I need to start preparing. I did call BC/BS to see if my insurance was approved and the rep I spoke with said that he didn't have anything on the system yet. He said to call back at the end of this week because it takes a while to go on the system. I really wasn't expecting an answer. I think I might just wait for the Dr's office to call. It's really weird, now that I have a date, I am just fine...not really concerned with the approval. (what is wrong with me? lol)
Ok, take care and best of luck to all,
~Lesa
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4/2/01
Ok, so now I care....I WANT TO KNOW!!!! lol
I called the insurance co a few times, they wont tell me anything. I called Karen @ Dr Slotman's office, she hasn't heard anything....I keep waiting for her call. Oh well...grrr!
Anyway, my roommate (Sarah) and I were at a hair salon. We were talking to the sylist cutting her hair, and she mentioned something about not getting enough protein after a surgery she had. Of course Sarah and I were eyeballing each other in a matter of seconds, and nonchalantly asked her what kind of surgery she had. I couldn't believe she said Gastric Bypass, so of course this turned into a 4 hour hair cut...lol.Got some good info from her, she looked great! Lost 240lbs over the last year and a half. Glad we got to talk.
Ok....hopefully I will updating soon with some good news!!! KEEP YOUR FINGERS CROSSED!!!
~Lesa
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4/4/01
Hey,
I still haven't heard anything. I did call BC/BS again, for like the 3rd time or so. I spoke to some rep who told me that it really wasn't a descision that would be discussed with the patient. He told me to call my primary doctor. I told him that it was a request from my surgeon, so he said to call him. He said the only way it would show up on the system would be if it was a denial, and that would take a few days after they notify the surgeon anywyay. So I was like, 'Soooo...talk to you tomorrow?" and he laughed and said bye.
I am over it...I am just going to wait. The good news is I've eaten enough food to last me the rest of my life in this time of waiting, so there is absolutely no chance of me ever being hungry. lol
Hope to have more info soon~
Lesa
(PS Just wanted to thank everyone who has been emailing me, I really appreciate it!)
OH - ALSO SMOKE FREE FOR 2 DAYS...
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4/16/01
HEY!
I just got off the phone with BC/BS - IM APPROVED!!!!!!!!!!!!
more later...I'm at work! lol
~Lesa
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4/17/01
Hi,
I just got a list of pre op testing I need done. Less than three weeks to get it done and at the busy time at work- eek!
Oh well...
I am feeling scared today. I don't know why. It's the first time since I started this that I am starting to worry. I think it finally hit home. I just wnat to always be there for my daughter.
Well, more later...
~Lesa
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4/19/01
Called my PCP yesterday and he took me yesterday for all my blood work and an EKG. (that was fun, yet another doctor who has seen me half naked.) I felt like telling him that I was coming back when I lose all the weight just so he can see me naked again. LOL Anyway, all went well, have to go back on the 23rd for results and to get medical clearance.
I submitted a question but it didn't get posted. I wanted to know if anyone has gone back to work within 3 weeks with an open RNY. I hope to do this because my job does not pay for short term disability. They do provide a company that we can get it through for a small fortune but I was turned down due to height and weight- hmf. Go figure....lol
I guess I will try again. 13 days and counting.....
I'll write more soon.
~Lesa
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4/21/01
Hi again,
Pretty "Iffy" with the not smoking. I go days without smoking and then I smoke 1-3. I have to keep my butt on tract. Only 11 more days....eeeekkkk!!!!
More later,
btw- thanks for the support Becky, Glenn, and Sue!!
~Lesa
4/21/01 AGAIN - half hour later....
Karen, Dr Slotman's assistant, just called me to tell me that there was a problem with my insurance. The problem is between her office and my insurance - laps of some kind. It will be corrected....in 3-4 weeks!!!!!! I have to wait now...I have to call on Monday afternoon to get my new date. GRRRRRRRR!
I shouldn't be surprised, I read about this crap all the time.
Oh well, I'll update on Monday after I get a new date.
Lesa
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5/2/01
Hi~
Well I have to say - I still don't have a surgery date!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!GRRRRRRR. This is getting old. I now impatient. I called Karen at the doctor's office a few times last week and she had no info. I called again yesterday and she said she would call me on Friday with an answer. I told her that I am not waiting until next month, I want it in May. (I am such a brat).
So hopefully the next time I update I will have good news!
Thanks to everyone for you emails - they really mean a lot to me.
~Lesa
a/k/a Sybil (People at work told me I have 20 personalities now because waiting is driving me crazy!!!) LOL
:)
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5/2/01
Hi again,
Well atleast one good thing happened today - I am now an angel! For Rhonda. She is really nice and I want to wish her the best of luck!
see ya all-
I'll write on Friday - beware! lol
Lesa
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5/4/01
Hey~
NO - NO DATE. I spoke to Karen she said that they have the paper work and they didn't give her a date of when it would be done. She can't commit to any date, they could call next week, they could call next month. I am so over this. I hate not knowing.
Oh well, more later..................
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Hi - nothing new to report. I feel kind of helpless....I want to know now when I am going in!!
I hate to keep calling my doctor's office, and I'm sure they are sick of hearing from me...
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5/18/01
Hi,
Now I am getting mad. I called Dr Slotman's office and spoke to Shirley(she is so nice). Bad news though - still no answer!!?? How can it take this long? So anyway, I wanted to know if I am going to get a date sooner than the next scheduling date because I should already to be post op. Well, they are already scheduling into the second week of July....and they don't know if they will squeeze me in somewhere or not.
Um....yeah.
I am now looking into another Surgeon. I was disappointed before, now I am just pissed off.
~Lesa
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5/31/01
Hi
Been a while since I felt like writing on here. I am still in limbo hell. I thought I had it all worked out, but I don't. I did find out that with my insurance, if you go in network vs out of network, your paper work goes through a different company. This is my major hold up. I am literly exhausted from the research I have done over this. I called my PCP, my insurance company, talked to our HR manager, and spoke to the surgeon's office. And still I am nowhere.... I just want this to get this bullcrap over with! I could have been a month post op and 20-30 or more pounds lighter.
So, I wait for the creditialing office for their next "Board meeting" on June 14th before I know anything else.
Thanks to everyone who has been writing to me and giving me support.
Lesa
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6/17/01
Hi all-
OK, the insurance company had their credentialling meeting on the 14th but wont release a list of doctors who they credentialled until the 18th. However, Dr Slotman's office wont have anyone in to take calls on the 18th so I need to wait until the 19th. Will it ever end I ask you? LOL
Sometimes it doesn't even faze me anymore....I am totally used to one postponement after another. Then I get mad again.
Anyway, things are going well for me otherwise. We are swamped at work and this delay has actually been helpful for me to take off at a better time. I know I am looking at August now for surgery.
I went to the PCP with my roommate who also goes to him, and I gained 5 lbs. It's from all those "this is the last time I can eat this" meals or snacks.
Well, I will update as soon as I hear...
~Lesa
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6/20/01
Hi,
I have a new date ----- August 20th. Does that suck or what? It's two months away! Three and a half months from my original date. Dr Slotman's office is trying to fit me in July though. Now my boss at work is like - just go in August, it will work out better. I'm like - I'll go on my lunch break if they call! lol I just want this done and over with so I can start my recovery.
Anyway, I will be updating more frequently now hopefully. I've been really busy but I will try and make more time....Like anyone wants to hear my ramblings....
Good luck to all and thanks for all the emails, keep them coming!
Lesa
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6/24/01
Hey~
Didn't get a chance to write sooner...Shirley from Dr Slotman's office and pushed my date up to July 30th! Much better. Just 5 weeks to get ready now. (Like I haven't been ready for the last month and a half).
Everyone I've been talking to keeps telling me this happened for a reason, that I need to think harder about this. I've really been thinking and I am concerned about afterwards...like in 10 years. I feel confident that I will be happy though, I can't wait to feel better. I want to get this weight off of me and have my back stop hurting so much.
A man that comes into my office who is psychic, keeps telling me that I am going to have a new beginning and that I am doing the right thing. He told me resently not to have doubts and that everything is going to be ok. That made me feel better when I heard that. I know everyone doesn't believe in that sort of thing....
More later....
Lesa
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7/14/01
Hi all~
I'm getting a little nervous here and there, but mostly just excited. I think of my daughter, going under during surgery, the pain afterwards, the hospital stay...then I think past that and I can see myself ----- In a thong walking down the boardwalk, with nothing else on, just some kickin shoes! LOL just kidding. Really, I think past the surgery and wonder what it's going to be like to go and see people I haven't seen in a while and their reactions. Shopping, how broke I am going to be from buying clothes!! (its worth it, believe me!) I know that I still have to work at this, that I can't just lay around on my butt and expect to lose weight. I am ready, I have every intention to exercise and eat right.
I have many things to get done. I have to go buy some vitamins, some soups, sugar free items, bring the recliner up stairs and I still haven't quit smoking! I know that is really bad. I am going out today to get patches and start Monday.
Thanks to everyone who has sent me well wishes - I really appreciate them!! Also - good luck to Rhonda, she got a date- August 13th!! (go girl)
See ya all,
Lesa
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7/16/01
Just a quick hi----I quite smoking today!! HELP! jk, all is ok.
Lesa
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7/22/01
Hey just 8 more days......... eek! I feel pretty good about it. I am trying not to psych myself out one way or another. I've talked to people who say the pain is bad and I've talked to some who've said it's not bad at all. I don't know what to think. I've had a c-section, and my gall bladder out lap. I think it's pretty safe to say it's not going to be anything like the lap, and I have to be honest about the c-section. I was in pain when I first tried to move for the first couple of days, but after that I was fine. Hopefully it will be like the c-section at worst! Well, wish me luck.
Talk to you soon~
Lesa
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7/28/01
Hey all~
Only 2 more days -------- eek!! I has finally hit home. I am praying for a safe and uneventful surgery.
I went to the doctors earlier in the week and got my before pic taken and signed my consent. My roommate was busting on me and saying that the picture was going to be a nude shot of me on all fours looking back at the camera. She is an asswipe, isn't she? LOL, made me laugh though. I got weighed and gained some weight, which I knew because I haven't been watching what I eat at all. Not much time left before I get into the healthy mode.
Oh by the way, Rhonda who I am an Angel for, is going to be my angel! Thanks Rhonda for everything!
Well,I don't know if I will have another chance to update before the surgery so please please please keep me in your thoughts and prayers!
Thanks for all the well wishes and best of luck to all!
~Lesa
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8/4/01
Um.....I've falled in love....with the Morphine Pump! LOL. I'm home, it's 6 days after the surgery. Ugh, I am tired but doing well. I'm trying not to take the pain med, it is awful getting it down. I think I'll go look up in the Q&A how people have taken them.
I want to thank everyone for their well wishes and prayers - they mean a lot to me! Thanks to RHONDA my angel who was wonderful and caring! Thanks so much to SARAH and my MOTHER who were by my side at all times. Love you all!!
~Lesa
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8/5/01
Hi All
Feeling better today. I am having a hard time with the food and drink though. I can't seem to stop my mouth from producing about lets see...i dont know, 10 gallons of too much saliva. I asked a few people in the chat and they all say that it's from eating too fast. I get this when I wake up, when I am just sitting there, anytime. I tried to just keep swallowing, the first time because I didn't know, and I threw up.
I've been eating: eggs, cottage chesse, cream of wheat, jello, TCBY fat free/sugar free frozen yogurt and ensure. I drink crystal light raspberry and iced tea flavors.
Talk to you all soon - getting tired
~Lesa
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8/6/01
Hi,
Must I write everyday now? lol I'm getting very sick of the options I have to eat and it's only a few days. I think I need to make some real food and whip out the blender.
I'm drinking just water with ice today, much better than all the crap I've tried to drink.
Nothing really new to report...
~Lesa
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.8/7/01
Hey all
I got weighed last night --- LOST 9 lbs!! Then I weighed again this morning, 3 MORE lbs!! I lost 12 lbs in 10 days--- WOOOOHOOOO!
I'm eating a scrambled egg...boring. I need to go food shopping and get more of a selection. I've been doing well with the protein. I am getting much better with the water too.
Last night I had a steak soft shell taco. I took the insides out, minus the lettuce, and pureed it. It was so yummyyyyyy! Good protein too with the meat in it.
I am going to start walking today. Just around the block I guess. I don't want to over do it. We are having a heat wave and the temp is 100-110...I think I'll wait until the sun goes down. LOL
I'll update soon~
Lesa
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8/9/01
Hi,
walked last night,drank a lot of water....doing well. I am miserable over the same things to eat every day....I dred eating. I know this will change in a few weeks. See ya all~
Lesa
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8/13
Hey,
going to call the dr today to see if I can go back to work tomorrow, at least for a half day. I am too bored at home. I am using my vacation time for this, so why waste it? I'll keep ya updated.
~Lesa
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8/15
Hey all...
Went to work yesterday. I felt fine except I get so tired now. I had to go to my car and take a nap!! It was a short nap at lunch time. I was exhausted. I think 2 weeks is a little too early!
Well, I am on the couch today vegging out. LOL
I do try to move around, walk a little each day. Drinking Drinking Drinking water allllll day long. Also lemon crystal lite. Ok - gotta go, my couch is screaming my name...lol
:)
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8/24/01
Hey...
Had my doctor's appt yesterday. Got the staples out, didn't hurt at all. (The very top one was a pinch) He said that I was making him look very good... 25lbs in 3 wks. I asked him if he could modify the diet a little, he said no. It's just for 3 more weeks......ugh!! I do eat some stuff that isn't on the list, but they are soft foods also. (cheese and pasta). I don't think I am doing so well with the protein. I do get a lot in but I just found out today it is suppose to be 40 grams of protein a day. I am going to buy this new skim milk called "skim milk plus", Rhonda told me about it. It's very high in protein.
Anyway, I am noticing changes such as: my ring fell off my hand the other day, my watch is spinning on my wrist, my seat belt isn't tight anymore, my arm rest in the car isn't up against my hip anymore and my necklace is hanging lower than it did before.
Well, I will update soon - I keep writing about nothing so I am trying to write only when I have something to say.
Oh btw, I've been back at work since the 21st.
see ya all
Lesa
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9/5/01
Hi all...
Well, I haven't updated in a while because I am on a stupid plateau. GRRRRRRR! I have been much better with the protein.
I try and eat protein at least 3-4 times a day and drink a lot of fluid. (I have to admit, I cheated a few times and it wasn't bad...I wish it were!) I am only at a 27lb loss. That's only 2 lbs since I've been to the doctors. This may be also because of that time of the month (sorry guys). I hope I will have a big drop soon. I am starting to exercise this week, instead of just walking when I go to the mall or boardwalk or wherever.
Keep your fingers crossed kids!
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9/10/01
Hi Boys and girls...
I am a half of pound away from 30===woohoo. I know this isn't a dramatic increase but for some reason it makes me happy. I know my profile has been a little bit of a bummer with me ragging all the time....sorry!
My roommate just told me that I should write about how nice she is and what good care she lavished on me while I was recovering. For the love of God Sarah, can't you get your own page?
Anyway, I am doing well. Sarah is helping me to find the webpage I made for this surgical experience the day before my surgery so you all can maybe read it? lol
I am 6 wks post op today and feel great. I got a hair cut tonight and while it was wet and I was sitting in the chair, I finally saw the loss in my face. My head didn't look like a jug head. lmao -- jk.
I am basically eating meat (meatballs, sausage, bacon, chicken), tuna, cheese (any kind-love it all, but motz is high in protein), olives, soup (most kinds), peanut butter (for protein-but don't like it much these days), bagel chips and cream cheese, pasta salad, and I am trying something new each day. I drink sugar free iced tea and love it now. I don't even have an urge for diet Coke anymore. I try to drink a lot of water each day and I am gaining more energy.
I'll update more soon, I have a checkup with Slotman on Thursday.
See ya all!
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Hey,
Went to my doctors appointment, I've lost 50 pounds in two and a half months!!!!!! Everything was good, no hernias.
I bought two new pair of pants, 2 sizes smaller. I'm going to wait to buy more. more later.......
~Lesa
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10/19/01
Hey...
Sorry I haven't posted in a while. Been so busy. I am still losing, slow, but steady. I don't mind I guess. Gives me time to tighten up the skin! Here is some dangerous news, I can tollerate sugar...no problems at all. It scares me. I should have never tried it. I am keeping it under control though.
My clothes are already too big, I keep digging out old clothes that fit when I lost weight before only to find that they too are too big. It's a nice feeling!
I'll update soon!
~Lesa
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11-18-01
Hi,
Haven't posted in a while. I'm down 65lbs and doing good. It's slow, but whaddya gonna do, right? LOL. I'm still getting a lot of walking in. Last night I had a drink (Vodka & Tonic)...man does a drink go a long way now! lol
I posted a new picture, it should be up soon hopefully.
more later....
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12-15-01
Hey all,
weight loss is going slow......grr. I am down 72 lbs now. The half way point.(that makes me feel better :)
I need to eat more protein, my hair is falling out like nuts. I can't do anything with it. UGH bad hair day everyday, it sucks.
Anyway, I will update soon, I have a new picture coming up, it's kind of dark but you can see the loss(hopefully).
see ya all,
Lesa
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2/4/02
Hey,
Sorry I haven't posted much. I don't have much new to report. Some good news, I took measurements before the surgery and I just did them again last night. I don't have them here at work, so I have to go by memory. I lost 9" from my waist, 10" from my hips, 2 ring sizes, and the rest I will have to write down when I have them infront of me !
Gotta go, I'll post more later!
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2/8/02
Hey just looked up on the BMI chart, I am no longer under Obese, just Very Overweight....I'm so happy - lmao!
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4/2/O2
Hi, haven't written much....I've been on a two month plateau! BUT I just started losing again...woohoo.
Everything is going well. I am in an XL in shirts,,,,I can't believe it. I have so much energy. I need to buy all new clothes, I was waiting for the warm weather. I want to lose as much as I can, but I don't have anything to wear at all for the spring and summer.
I want a tummy tuck after I lose everything...hope I can do it.
Well, good luck to all and thanks for listening, more later!
****************************
6/3/02
Woohoo 101 pounds!
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6/4/02
OMG, check this out - yesterday I wore my shirt tucked in with a belt for the first time in 17 years!!!! I went from a size 32 jeans that wouldn't even zip up (never bought them) to a an 18...in shirts an XL or L. My shoe size went down to a 9 or 91/2 from a 10, my ring size is a 7.5 or 8 from a 9.5 or 10. Gotta love it !!! I have to messure, I'll update soon...see ya
****************************
7/10/02
Hey all....
Been a while. Having a great summer. Went on vacation and lost 8.5 lbs!!! How funny is that? I had put 2 lbs back on before I left. (No exercise for 2 wks and drank some wine-- watch those drinks!). Anyway, I took the weight right off and then some so I am happy.
Had a great time on vaca! Went to the beach in a tankini (eek, be scared of that picture! ha!). Walked a lot on the boardwalk and shopped. It was great. Bought a few shirts while down there in a size Large. A few years ago I wouldn't have of even gone....too hot and sweaty all the time from the extra weight, It was totally different this summer.
I'm going to go messure, I'll update in a few...
*****************************
10/12/02
Hey all, sorry haven't updated in awhile! I am down 111.5 lbs. I feel great and I am now looking into getting a tummytuck. I will keep you updated....
see ya
***************************
3/21/03
Hi,
Sorry it's been awhile! I've been so busy. Still losing weight! I'm in a Large top and 16 pants. I want to have a tt still, but I haven't really looked into it yet, we are so busy at work...I will more than likey set it up for this winter coming up. I still haven't done measurements. (anything else I can slack on?)
I have two friends who are having this done - Marian & Bari. Want to wish them both luck & you know Sarah & I will come visit your butts in the hospital!
Talk to you all soon, hope everyone is doing well :)
(By the way, neither of these pictures look anything like me, lol! I have to update them to! Man I have a big "to do" list)
******************************
6/2/03
Hi all...
I just wanted to pop in and update my weight and pictures. I don't know how long it takes for the pictures to show up but I sent them today. I've lost 3.5 more lbs. Saw my Surgeon he is pleased, and since I am still losing, for me to come back in 6 months. My iron level is really low, but I am taking Slow FE, and it is working great. I need to go for blood work and see what my level is now. Well, I wanted to say good luck to Bari - she is going in soon -- xoxoxox muah chickie-dee! And Marian, you are kicking a** girlfriend!! Talk to you all soon!
========================================
Well Damn it's been forever since I've been here! Living life to the fullest! It's been 3 and a half years. I;ve lost a total of 131 lbs total and kept it off. I feel great. I wore a size 12 dress to my xmas party this year....that's a huge change from way back when I was looking for a 4x in the stores.
I am veyr happy with my loss and I feel wonderful and do whatever I want without limits....I would do it all over in a NY Minute.
xo take care all, dont know if I'll be back. I'll post pics as I go....
- 7/30/01 - surgery date BMI 48.4 - *309lbs
- 8/7 -9
- 8/8 -3 (12 total)
- 8/9 -2 (14 total)
- 8/11 -1.5 (15.5 total)
- 8/13 -1 (16.5 total)
- 8/14 -1.5 (18 total)
- 8/16 -1.5 (19.5 total)
- 8/18 -1.5 (21.5 total)
- 8/20 -1.5 (23 total)
- 8/22 -1 (24 total)
**8/23 25 lb loss at doctor's appointment
- 8/24 -.5 (25.5 total)
- 8/30 -1 (26.5 total)
- 9/01 -5 (27 total)
- 9/08 -1.5 (28.5 total)
- 9/10 -1 (29.5 total-- ugh so close....lol)
- 9/15 -1 (30.5 total)
- 9/22 -1 (31.5 total)
- 9/23 -3 (34.5 total)
- 9/24 -1.5 (36 total)
- 9/29 -1 (37 total)
- 10/2 -2 (39 total)
- 10/3 -1 (40 total)
- 10/9 -4 (44 total)
- 10/10 -1 (45 total)
***10/11 50 lb loss at doctor's appointment!! (2.5 months)
- 10/12 -1.5 (51.5 total)
- 10/19 -2.5 (54 total)
- 10/29 -3.5 (57.5 total)
- 11/7 -4.5 (62 total)
- 11/14 -2 (64 total)
- 11/15 -1 (65 total)
- 11/25 -2 (67 total)
- 12/7 -3 (70 total) whew broke the plateau
- 12/11 -2 (72 total)
- 12/28 -4 (76 total)
- 1/4/02 -1 (77 total)
- 1/22 -3.5 (80.5 total)
- 2/8 -3 (83.5 total)
- 2/10 -1.5 (85 total)
- 2/12 -2.5 (87.5 total)
- 4/2 -3 (90.5 total)
- 5/3 -5 (95.5 total)
- 5/9 -2.5 (98 total)
- 6/4 -3 (101 pounds total!!!)
-7/10 -6.5 (107.5 total!)
-10/12 -4 (111.5 total)
- 11/28 -3.5 (115 total)
-3/21 -11 (126 total)
-6/2 -3.5 (129.5 total)
**1/12/05 -131 lbs I'm at 178lbs, in a med pretty much all the way around - feel great :)
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Hi, I am 33 yrs old, I have a beautiful daughter who is 3 yrs old, and I am ready to get rid of this whole "she has such a pretty face" image once and for all. I'd rather not state my weight right now, mainly because everyone I talk to at work knows that I live on this site now, and I'd rather do it when I'm losing...lol
I've been on this web site so many times in the last couple of weeks! I can't believe what is in front of my eyes ~ I am truly amazed. Sometimes I read this and my eyes fill up with tears, other times I have a smile from ear to ear ... I know this surgery is for me.
I have been actively searching for a surgeon in my area, or even a little farther, who has all of the requirements I need. (takes my insurance, practices at a big Hospital, and will do the surgery Lap).
Anyway, I am hoping to have this surgery, if anyone is interested in emailing me any suggestions, testimonials, or just anything at all, I will be glad to receive ANY email at Darian3@aol.com . All feedback is welcome.
Well, the best of luck to everyone, and I hope to be updating this soon with some good news!
~Lesa
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1-28-01
Hi again...
I have been searching for a surgeon in my area and I am getting a little disappointed. I have given up hope on having the surgery done lap. There are only two doctors in my area that do this. Both do not take my insurance, one of which does not take any insurance, only works on an out of network basis. Um..hello, I dont have $20,000! LOL.
Ok, anyway, I have made an appointment with one surgeon for the end of May (just for a consultation) Believe it or not, this is the earliest I could get an appointment from ANY doctor in the area! And believe me, I've called them all! I was very disappointed with this. The surgeon who I really wanted at first, has a 14 month wait just for a consultation!!!!!!! Then surgery would be another 5 or 6 months. I can't wait that long, but I hope I am making the right decision in finding another surgeon.
(I am also looking into another surgeon who I would absolutely love to have,,,,we'll see) Why can't I be normal and just have a surgeon? lmao!!
Hope to be updating soon with some good news....
~Lesa
(Also, can we get some spell check on here? lol)
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1-31-01
Ok ... a nice person from this site I have been emailing back and forth with, Shirley, told me to check out Dr Gus Slotman. I tried to call a few times, just got an answering machine so I left messages. I kind of forgot about it since I was calling so many surgeons.Anyway, Shirley emailed me to le tme know that the Dr would be doing the surgey lap this spring. I called and spoke to his assistant Karen and OMG I have an appointment on February 15th!!!!! I can not believe it! She said that if I decided to go with Dr Slotman and did the open RNY I could probably have it done at the end of March!!!!!!!! I couldnt believe what I was hearing! I had her laughing at my reaction!
So this is my deal....two weeks for an appointment and two months for the surgery??!?!?!? UNREAL! I cant wait until my appointment to find out more information about the lap. If I wait for the lap then it surgery wont be until summer. (This is a hard debate....immediate gratification takes over sometimes)
Maybe I should demand that he performs the surgery lap in March....think that will work? OK OK I am out of control tonight....see ya soon with more updates! (Hey you - wake up, I know this is boring!)
~Lesa
========================
2/8/01
Hi, nothing really new to report...my consultation appt is next Thursday, can't wait!! I have to tell everyone, I go to everyone's page (and I mean EVERYONES)and print it for the ride to and from work. My friend I ride with reads to me or I read to her and we are so engrossed, it makes the hour-15 minute ride go muuuuuch quicker! We feel like we know each and everyone of you! We get so mad in the car and curse out the insurance companies!!! LMAO, we are dorks. :)
I have been thinking about the smoking thing....ugh. I quit four years ago when I got pregnant and started after 3 years. (What am I a crackhead?) I know, that is so dumb. Hopefully this time I can stop for good when I quit.
Ok, well I will update after the doctor's appt.
~Lesa
=========================
2/15/01
Hi everyone,
Well, I had my consulatation appointment today with the surgeon. (Dr Gus Slotman) Everything went well, he was running an hour behind. (I was expecting that). His staff seemed very nice,the office was very busy. I was a little disappointed that his assistant Karen wasnt there today. Oh well Im sure I'll meet her soon enough. So anyway, a nurse came in and weighed me and I can't believe it but I lost 4 lbs. So Ive decided that I dont need the surgery. KIDDING! I just found it hard to believe that I lost, considering yesterday was Valentine's Day.
Anyway, Dr Slotman gave me script for an upper GI, but asked me to consider taking another attempt at Weight Watchers. He said that I am a very healthy 33 year old and this is a serious surgery. He wants me to be sure and think it over. So I am going to call Karen tomorrow at the crack of dawn and tell her I want it. LOL
I'll keep ya posted! If anyone wants to email me, feel free!
~Lesa
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2/22/01
Hi ya,
I called yesterday and scheduled an appointed for my Upper GI Series to be done. I called Karen and told her that I was going to do the surgery. I waited 6 days to call, and really thought it over. I also went to a seminar that Dr Slotman held this week with my roommate, on Gastric Bypass. It was good information, but I have to be truthfull, I think I could have answered almost every question that was asked from obtaining so much information from the website. The wealth of information on here is just invaluable. I have learned so much. I did get to meet Shirley, the woman who I've been emailing back and forth with from this website, that was nice. She is doing great, lost 92 lbs already!!!
Anyway, after I have my Upper GI test next week, hopefully I will be on my way...
Will update soon, but I try and wait for events to write or I would just rattle on and on and on....
Feel free to e-mail me any time...Darian3@aol.com
~Lesa
=============================
3/1/01
Hi~
Well, I had my Upper GI done on 2/27/01....all I can say is EWE!
No, really it wasn't that bad. I went in at 8 am and waited a few minutes because the doctor was late. The Tech took me back to a dressing room and gave me 2 gowns to use (thanks!) and explained exactly what they were going to do. I have to say, this really makes a difference and they should explain everything everytime you have some testing done. Most people are scared because they don't know what to expect! Anyway, I then went into this room and she gave me two little cups, one had these little bead things and one with water. They told me to put bead things in my mouth and then swallow with the water, this will make you feel as though you need to belch, but try not to. So I did that, and I felt like I just chugged a 2 liter of soda, I was ready to bust. While you are doing this, you are standing up in this machine that is like a huge x-ray machine and they are checking out your esophagus (the bead things expand it so they can see). Then the fun part, you have to drink the barium. It tastes like a Mallox milkshake with a hint of banana for flavor. I was thinking, ok, I can drink anything, as long as I can chug it - wrong, this stuff is like sludge - no chugging. Then the wall you are leaning against becomes a table...then you just turn 738 ways and they check out your insides on this screen. (I checked it out ... pretty cool!). Right when you think you are done, "please drink more barium". That time I almost got sick, but I made it through.
So that is my drama. It was not bad over all.
On a downside, I got turned down for my short term disability today...I weigh too much. (don't ask...I can't even deal with the logic!)
OK...I'll update more soon.
See ya, ~Lesa
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3/10/01
Hi again
This week I've been trying to push things along a little bit. I called the Dr's office two days after I had the upper GI and they had a message that they were out of the office for 4 days. Bummer, but I really didn't feel disappointed, odd. So this week I called on the day they were to get back, still the same message. I left a message that I had called the lab that did the UGI and confirmed that they mailed it in. (they were suppose to fax it that same day) I called a few more times,didn't leave messages. Called again on 3/7 and spoke to Karen, the Dr's asst. She said not to worry that she probably had it and she would call me back at the end of the day. It was getting close to the time the office closed, so I called her to inquire, she said she didnt see it yet. She did say that they had a stack of things to go through though from being out of the office for a while. She told me she would call me when it came in,..........grrr. I hate waiting. So, I called her on Friday, late afternoon. I told her that I would give her $10,000 for a tenative surgery date, she laughed and put me on hold, came back and said she had my paper work, it was normal. She pulled out her scheduling book and low and behold ---------I HAVE A DATE~!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! May 7th!!. I actually could have had the middle of April, but our busy time is at the end of the month at work, so being the wonderful employee I am, I waiting until May. (I hope my boss reads this...brown noser).
So thats all for now. I will update soon.
~Lesa
=========================
3/20/01
Hi, It's me again- lol
Well, nothing really new to report. I did call the Dr's office back and asked to be moved up. I am now on for May 2, pending insurance approval. This is only 6 wks away, I need to start preparing. I did call BC/BS to see if my insurance was approved and the rep I spoke with said that he didn't have anything on the system yet. He said to call back at the end of this week because it takes a while to go on the system. I really wasn't expecting an answer. I think I might just wait for the Dr's office to call. It's really weird, now that I have a date, I am just fine...not really concerned with the approval. (what is wrong with me? lol)
Ok, take care and best of luck to all,
~Lesa
===========================
4/2/01
Ok, so now I care....I WANT TO KNOW!!!! lol
I called the insurance co a few times, they wont tell me anything. I called Karen @ Dr Slotman's office, she hasn't heard anything....I keep waiting for her call. Oh well...grrr!
Anyway, my roommate (Sarah) and I were at a hair salon. We were talking to the sylist cutting her hair, and she mentioned something about not getting enough protein after a surgery she had. Of course Sarah and I were eyeballing each other in a matter of seconds, and nonchalantly asked her what kind of surgery she had. I couldn't believe she said Gastric Bypass, so of course this turned into a 4 hour hair cut...lol.Got some good info from her, she looked great! Lost 240lbs over the last year and a half. Glad we got to talk.
Ok....hopefully I will updating soon with some good news!!! KEEP YOUR FINGERS CROSSED!!!
~Lesa
==========================
4/4/01
Hey,
I still haven't heard anything. I did call BC/BS again, for like the 3rd time or so. I spoke to some rep who told me that it really wasn't a descision that would be discussed with the patient. He told me to call my primary doctor. I told him that it was a request from my surgeon, so he said to call him. He said the only way it would show up on the system would be if it was a denial, and that would take a few days after they notify the surgeon anywyay. So I was like, 'Soooo...talk to you tomorrow?" and he laughed and said bye.
I am over it...I am just going to wait. The good news is I've eaten enough food to last me the rest of my life in this time of waiting, so there is absolutely no chance of me ever being hungry. lol
Hope to have more info soon~
Lesa
(PS Just wanted to thank everyone who has been emailing me, I really appreciate it!)
OH - ALSO SMOKE FREE FOR 2 DAYS...
========================
4/16/01
HEY!
I just got off the phone with BC/BS - IM APPROVED!!!!!!!!!!!!
more later...I'm at work! lol
~Lesa
========================
4/17/01
Hi,
I just got a list of pre op testing I need done. Less than three weeks to get it done and at the busy time at work- eek!
Oh well...
I am feeling scared today. I don't know why. It's the first time since I started this that I am starting to worry. I think it finally hit home. I just wnat to always be there for my daughter.
Well, more later...
~Lesa
==========================
4/19/01
Called my PCP yesterday and he took me yesterday for all my blood work and an EKG. (that was fun, yet another doctor who has seen me half naked.) I felt like telling him that I was coming back when I lose all the weight just so he can see me naked again. LOL Anyway, all went well, have to go back on the 23rd for results and to get medical clearance.
I submitted a question but it didn't get posted. I wanted to know if anyone has gone back to work within 3 weeks with an open RNY. I hope to do this because my job does not pay for short term disability. They do provide a company that we can get it through for a small fortune but I was turned down due to height and weight- hmf. Go figure....lol
I guess I will try again. 13 days and counting.....
I'll write more soon.
~Lesa
==========================
4/21/01
Hi again,
Pretty "Iffy" with the not smoking. I go days without smoking and then I smoke 1-3. I have to keep my butt on tract. Only 11 more days....eeeekkkk!!!!
More later,
btw- thanks for the support Becky, Glenn, and Sue!!
~Lesa
4/21/01 AGAIN - half hour later....
Karen, Dr Slotman's assistant, just called me to tell me that there was a problem with my insurance. The problem is between her office and my insurance - laps of some kind. It will be corrected....in 3-4 weeks!!!!!! I have to wait now...I have to call on Monday afternoon to get my new date. GRRRRRRRR!
I shouldn't be surprised, I read about this crap all the time.
Oh well, I'll update on Monday after I get a new date.
Lesa
============================
5/2/01
Hi~
Well I have to say - I still don't have a surgery date!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!GRRRRRRR. This is getting old. I now impatient. I called Karen at the doctor's office a few times last week and she had no info. I called again yesterday and she said she would call me on Friday with an answer. I told her that I am not waiting until next month, I want it in May. (I am such a brat).
So hopefully the next time I update I will have good news!
Thanks to everyone for you emails - they really mean a lot to me.
~Lesa
a/k/a Sybil (People at work told me I have 20 personalities now because waiting is driving me crazy!!!) LOL
:)
============================
5/2/01
Hi again,
Well atleast one good thing happened today - I am now an angel! For Rhonda. She is really nice and I want to wish her the best of luck!
see ya all-
I'll write on Friday - beware! lol
Lesa
===========================
5/4/01
Hey~
NO - NO DATE. I spoke to Karen she said that they have the paper work and they didn't give her a date of when it would be done. She can't commit to any date, they could call next week, they could call next month. I am so over this. I hate not knowing.
Oh well, more later..................
============================
Hi - nothing new to report. I feel kind of helpless....I want to know now when I am going in!!
I hate to keep calling my doctor's office, and I'm sure they are sick of hearing from me...
============================
5/18/01
Hi,
Now I am getting mad. I called Dr Slotman's office and spoke to Shirley(she is so nice). Bad news though - still no answer!!?? How can it take this long? So anyway, I wanted to know if I am going to get a date sooner than the next scheduling date because I should already to be post op. Well, they are already scheduling into the second week of July....and they don't know if they will squeeze me in somewhere or not.
Um....yeah.
I am now looking into another Surgeon. I was disappointed before, now I am just pissed off.
~Lesa
=============================
5/31/01
Hi
Been a while since I felt like writing on here. I am still in limbo hell. I thought I had it all worked out, but I don't. I did find out that with my insurance, if you go in network vs out of network, your paper work goes through a different company. This is my major hold up. I am literly exhausted from the research I have done over this. I called my PCP, my insurance company, talked to our HR manager, and spoke to the surgeon's office. And still I am nowhere.... I just want this to get this bullcrap over with! I could have been a month post op and 20-30 or more pounds lighter.
So, I wait for the creditialing office for their next "Board meeting" on June 14th before I know anything else.
Thanks to everyone who has been writing to me and giving me support.
Lesa
=============================
6/17/01
Hi all-
OK, the insurance company had their credentialling meeting on the 14th but wont release a list of doctors who they credentialled until the 18th. However, Dr Slotman's office wont have anyone in to take calls on the 18th so I need to wait until the 19th. Will it ever end I ask you? LOL
Sometimes it doesn't even faze me anymore....I am totally used to one postponement after another. Then I get mad again.
Anyway, things are going well for me otherwise. We are swamped at work and this delay has actually been helpful for me to take off at a better time. I know I am looking at August now for surgery.
I went to the PCP with my roommate who also goes to him, and I gained 5 lbs. It's from all those "this is the last time I can eat this" meals or snacks.
Well, I will update as soon as I hear...
~Lesa
==========================
6/20/01
Hi,
I have a new date ----- August 20th. Does that suck or what? It's two months away! Three and a half months from my original date. Dr Slotman's office is trying to fit me in July though. Now my boss at work is like - just go in August, it will work out better. I'm like - I'll go on my lunch break if they call! lol I just want this done and over with so I can start my recovery.
Anyway, I will be updating more frequently now hopefully. I've been really busy but I will try and make more time....Like anyone wants to hear my ramblings....
Good luck to all and thanks for all the emails, keep them coming!
Lesa
================================
6/24/01
Hey~
Didn't get a chance to write sooner...Shirley from Dr Slotman's office and pushed my date up to July 30th! Much better. Just 5 weeks to get ready now. (Like I haven't been ready for the last month and a half).
Everyone I've been talking to keeps telling me this happened for a reason, that I need to think harder about this. I've really been thinking and I am concerned about afterwards...like in 10 years. I feel confident that I will be happy though, I can't wait to feel better. I want to get this weight off of me and have my back stop hurting so much.
A man that comes into my office who is psychic, keeps telling me that I am going to have a new beginning and that I am doing the right thing. He told me resently not to have doubts and that everything is going to be ok. That made me feel better when I heard that. I know everyone doesn't believe in that sort of thing....
More later....
Lesa
================================
7/14/01
Hi all~
I'm getting a little nervous here and there, but mostly just excited. I think of my daughter, going under during surgery, the pain afterwards, the hospital stay...then I think past that and I can see myself ----- In a thong walking down the boardwalk, with nothing else on, just some kickin shoes! LOL just kidding. Really, I think past the surgery and wonder what it's going to be like to go and see people I haven't seen in a while and their reactions. Shopping, how broke I am going to be from buying clothes!! (its worth it, believe me!) I know that I still have to work at this, that I can't just lay around on my butt and expect to lose weight. I am ready, I have every intention to exercise and eat right.
I have many things to get done. I have to go buy some vitamins, some soups, sugar free items, bring the recliner up stairs and I still haven't quit smoking! I know that is really bad. I am going out today to get patches and start Monday.
Thanks to everyone who has sent me well wishes - I really appreciate them!! Also - good luck to Rhonda, she got a date- August 13th!! (go girl)
See ya all,
Lesa
===========================
7/16/01
Just a quick hi----I quite smoking today!! HELP! jk, all is ok.
Lesa
===========================
7/22/01
Hey just 8 more days......... eek! I feel pretty good about it. I am trying not to psych myself out one way or another. I've talked to people who say the pain is bad and I've talked to some who've said it's not bad at all. I don't know what to think. I've had a c-section, and my gall bladder out lap. I think it's pretty safe to say it's not going to be anything like the lap, and I have to be honest about the c-section. I was in pain when I first tried to move for the first couple of days, but after that I was fine. Hopefully it will be like the c-section at worst! Well, wish me luck.
Talk to you soon~
Lesa
============================
7/28/01
Hey all~
Only 2 more days -------- eek!! I has finally hit home. I am praying for a safe and uneventful surgery.
I went to the doctors earlier in the week and got my before pic taken and signed my consent. My roommate was busting on me and saying that the picture was going to be a nude shot of me on all fours looking back at the camera. She is an asswipe, isn't she? LOL, made me laugh though. I got weighed and gained some weight, which I knew because I haven't been watching what I eat at all. Not much time left before I get into the healthy mode.
Oh by the way, Rhonda who I am an Angel for, is going to be my angel! Thanks Rhonda for everything!
Well,I don't know if I will have another chance to update before the surgery so please please please keep me in your thoughts and prayers!
Thanks for all the well wishes and best of luck to all!
~Lesa
==============================
8/4/01
Um.....I've falled in love....with the Morphine Pump! LOL. I'm home, it's 6 days after the surgery. Ugh, I am tired but doing well. I'm trying not to take the pain med, it is awful getting it down. I think I'll go look up in the Q&A how people have taken them.
I want to thank everyone for their well wishes and prayers - they mean a lot to me! Thanks to RHONDA my angel who was wonderful and caring! Thanks so much to SARAH and my MOTHER who were by my side at all times. Love you all!!
~Lesa
==========================
8/5/01
Hi All
Feeling better today. I am having a hard time with the food and drink though. I can't seem to stop my mouth from producing about lets see...i dont know, 10 gallons of too much saliva. I asked a few people in the chat and they all say that it's from eating too fast. I get this when I wake up, when I am just sitting there, anytime. I tried to just keep swallowing, the first time because I didn't know, and I threw up.
I've been eating: eggs, cottage chesse, cream of wheat, jello, TCBY fat free/sugar free frozen yogurt and ensure. I drink crystal light raspberry and iced tea flavors.
Talk to you all soon - getting tired
~Lesa
============================
8/6/01
Hi,
Must I write everyday now? lol I'm getting very sick of the options I have to eat and it's only a few days. I think I need to make some real food and whip out the blender.
I'm drinking just water with ice today, much better than all the crap I've tried to drink.
Nothing really new to report...
~Lesa
==============================
.8/7/01
Hey all
I got weighed last night --- LOST 9 lbs!! Then I weighed again this morning, 3 MORE lbs!! I lost 12 lbs in 10 days--- WOOOOHOOOO!
I'm eating a scrambled egg...boring. I need to go food shopping and get more of a selection. I've been doing well with the protein. I am getting much better with the water too.
Last night I had a steak soft shell taco. I took the insides out, minus the lettuce, and pureed it. It was so yummyyyyyy! Good protein too with the meat in it.
I am going to start walking today. Just around the block I guess. I don't want to over do it. We are having a heat wave and the temp is 100-110...I think I'll wait until the sun goes down. LOL
I'll update soon~
Lesa
========================
8/9/01
Hi,
walked last night,drank a lot of water....doing well. I am miserable over the same things to eat every day....I dred eating. I know this will change in a few weeks. See ya all~
Lesa
=======================
8/13
Hey,
going to call the dr today to see if I can go back to work tomorrow, at least for a half day. I am too bored at home. I am using my vacation time for this, so why waste it? I'll keep ya updated.
~Lesa
==========================
8/15
Hey all...
Went to work yesterday. I felt fine except I get so tired now. I had to go to my car and take a nap!! It was a short nap at lunch time. I was exhausted. I think 2 weeks is a little too early!
Well, I am on the couch today vegging out. LOL
I do try to move around, walk a little each day. Drinking Drinking Drinking water allllll day long. Also lemon crystal lite. Ok - gotta go, my couch is screaming my name...lol
:)
=========================
8/24/01
Hey...
Had my doctor's appt yesterday. Got the staples out, didn't hurt at all. (The very top one was a pinch) He said that I was making him look very good... 25lbs in 3 wks. I asked him if he could modify the diet a little, he said no. It's just for 3 more weeks......ugh!! I do eat some stuff that isn't on the list, but they are soft foods also. (cheese and pasta). I don't think I am doing so well with the protein. I do get a lot in but I just found out today it is suppose to be 40 grams of protein a day. I am going to buy this new skim milk called "skim milk plus", Rhonda told me about it. It's very high in protein.
Anyway, I am noticing changes such as: my ring fell off my hand the other day, my watch is spinning on my wrist, my seat belt isn't tight anymore, my arm rest in the car isn't up against my hip anymore and my necklace is hanging lower than it did before.
Well, I will update soon - I keep writing about nothing so I am trying to write only when I have something to say.
Oh btw, I've been back at work since the 21st.
see ya all
Lesa
==========================
9/5/01
Hi all...
Well, I haven't updated in a while because I am on a stupid plateau. GRRRRRRR! I have been much better with the protein.
I try and eat protein at least 3-4 times a day and drink a lot of fluid. (I have to admit, I cheated a few times and it wasn't bad...I wish it were!) I am only at a 27lb loss. That's only 2 lbs since I've been to the doctors. This may be also because of that time of the month (sorry guys). I hope I will have a big drop soon. I am starting to exercise this week, instead of just walking when I go to the mall or boardwalk or wherever.
Keep your fingers crossed kids!
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9/10/01
Hi Boys and girls...
I am a half of pound away from 30===woohoo. I know this isn't a dramatic increase but for some reason it makes me happy. I know my profile has been a little bit of a bummer with me ragging all the time....sorry!
My roommate just told me that I should write about how nice she is and what good care she lavished on me while I was recovering. For the love of God Sarah, can't you get your own page?
Anyway, I am doing well. Sarah is helping me to find the webpage I made for this surgical experience the day before my surgery so you all can maybe read it? lol
I am 6 wks post op today and feel great. I got a hair cut tonight and while it was wet and I was sitting in the chair, I finally saw the loss in my face. My head didn't look like a jug head. lmao -- jk.
I am basically eating meat (meatballs, sausage, bacon, chicken), tuna, cheese (any kind-love it all, but motz is high in protein), olives, soup (most kinds), peanut butter (for protein-but don't like it much these days), bagel chips and cream cheese, pasta salad, and I am trying something new each day. I drink sugar free iced tea and love it now. I don't even have an urge for diet Coke anymore. I try to drink a lot of water each day and I am gaining more energy.
I'll update more soon, I have a checkup with Slotman on Thursday.
See ya all!
==========================
Hey,
Went to my doctors appointment, I've lost 50 pounds in two and a half months!!!!!! Everything was good, no hernias.
I bought two new pair of pants, 2 sizes smaller. I'm going to wait to buy more. more later.......
~Lesa
==========================
10/19/01
Hey...
Sorry I haven't posted in a while. Been so busy. I am still losing, slow, but steady. I don't mind I guess. Gives me time to tighten up the skin! Here is some dangerous news, I can tollerate sugar...no problems at all. It scares me. I should have never tried it. I am keeping it under control though.
My clothes are already too big, I keep digging out old clothes that fit when I lost weight before only to find that they too are too big. It's a nice feeling!
I'll update soon!
~Lesa
============================
11-18-01
Hi,
Haven't posted in a while. I'm down 65lbs and doing good. It's slow, but whaddya gonna do, right? LOL. I'm still getting a lot of walking in. Last night I had a drink (Vodka & Tonic)...man does a drink go a long way now! lol
I posted a new picture, it should be up soon hopefully.
more later....
============================
12-15-01
Hey all,
weight loss is going slow......grr. I am down 72 lbs now. The half way point.(that makes me feel better :)
I need to eat more protein, my hair is falling out like nuts. I can't do anything with it. UGH bad hair day everyday, it sucks.
Anyway, I will update soon, I have a new picture coming up, it's kind of dark but you can see the loss(hopefully).
see ya all,
Lesa
============================
2/4/02
Hey,
Sorry I haven't posted much. I don't have much new to report. Some good news, I took measurements before the surgery and I just did them again last night. I don't have them here at work, so I have to go by memory. I lost 9" from my waist, 10" from my hips, 2 ring sizes, and the rest I will have to write down when I have them infront of me !
Gotta go, I'll post more later!
=============================
2/8/02
Hey just looked up on the BMI chart, I am no longer under Obese, just Very Overweight....I'm so happy - lmao!
=============================
4/2/O2
Hi, haven't written much....I've been on a two month plateau! BUT I just started losing again...woohoo.
Everything is going well. I am in an XL in shirts,,,,I can't believe it. I have so much energy. I need to buy all new clothes, I was waiting for the warm weather. I want to lose as much as I can, but I don't have anything to wear at all for the spring and summer.
I want a tummy tuck after I lose everything...hope I can do it.
Well, good luck to all and thanks for listening, more later!
****************************
6/3/02
Woohoo 101 pounds!
****************************
6/4/02
OMG, check this out - yesterday I wore my shirt tucked in with a belt for the first time in 17 years!!!! I went from a size 32 jeans that wouldn't even zip up (never bought them) to a an 18...in shirts an XL or L. My shoe size went down to a 9 or 91/2 from a 10, my ring size is a 7.5 or 8 from a 9.5 or 10. Gotta love it !!! I have to messure, I'll update soon...see ya
****************************
7/10/02
Hey all....
Been a while. Having a great summer. Went on vacation and lost 8.5 lbs!!! How funny is that? I had put 2 lbs back on before I left. (No exercise for 2 wks and drank some wine-- watch those drinks!). Anyway, I took the weight right off and then some so I am happy.
Had a great time on vaca! Went to the beach in a tankini (eek, be scared of that picture! ha!). Walked a lot on the boardwalk and shopped. It was great. Bought a few shirts while down there in a size Large. A few years ago I wouldn't have of even gone....too hot and sweaty all the time from the extra weight, It was totally different this summer.
I'm going to go messure, I'll update in a few...
*****************************
10/12/02
Hey all, sorry haven't updated in awhile! I am down 111.5 lbs. I feel great and I am now looking into getting a tummytuck. I will keep you updated....
see ya
***************************
3/21/03
Hi,
Sorry it's been awhile! I've been so busy. Still losing weight! I'm in a Large top and 16 pants. I want to have a tt still, but I haven't really looked into it yet, we are so busy at work...I will more than likey set it up for this winter coming up. I still haven't done measurements. (anything else I can slack on?)
I have two friends who are having this done - Marian & Bari. Want to wish them both luck & you know Sarah & I will come visit your butts in the hospital!
Talk to you all soon, hope everyone is doing well :)
(By the way, neither of these pictures look anything like me, lol! I have to update them to! Man I have a big "to do" list)
******************************
6/2/03
Hi all...
I just wanted to pop in and update my weight and pictures. I don't know how long it takes for the pictures to show up but I sent them today. I've lost 3.5 more lbs. Saw my Surgeon he is pleased, and since I am still losing, for me to come back in 6 months. My iron level is really low, but I am taking Slow FE, and it is working great. I need to go for blood work and see what my level is now. Well, I wanted to say good luck to Bari - she is going in soon -- xoxoxox muah chickie-dee! And Marian, you are kicking a** girlfriend!! Talk to you all soon!
========================================
Well Damn it's been forever since I've been here! Living life to the fullest! It's been 3 and a half years. I;ve lost a total of 131 lbs total and kept it off. I feel great. I wore a size 12 dress to my xmas party this year....that's a huge change from way back when I was looking for a 4x in the stores.
I am veyr happy with my loss and I feel wonderful and do whatever I want without limits....I would do it all over in a NY Minute.
xo take care all, dont know if I'll be back. I'll post pics as I go....
- 7/30/01 - surgery date BMI 48.4 - *309lbs
- 8/7 -9
- 8/8 -3 (12 total)
- 8/9 -2 (14 total)
- 8/11 -1.5 (15.5 total)
- 8/13 -1 (16.5 total)
- 8/14 -1.5 (18 total)
- 8/16 -1.5 (19.5 total)
- 8/18 -1.5 (21.5 total)
- 8/20 -1.5 (23 total)
- 8/22 -1 (24 total)
**8/23 25 lb loss at doctor's appointment
- 8/24 -.5 (25.5 total)
- 8/30 -1 (26.5 total)
- 9/01 -5 (27 total)
- 9/08 -1.5 (28.5 total)
- 9/10 -1 (29.5 total-- ugh so close....lol)
- 9/15 -1 (30.5 total)
- 9/22 -1 (31.5 total)
- 9/23 -3 (34.5 total)
- 9/24 -1.5 (36 total)
- 9/29 -1 (37 total)
- 10/2 -2 (39 total)
- 10/3 -1 (40 total)
- 10/9 -4 (44 total)
- 10/10 -1 (45 total)
***10/11 50 lb loss at doctor's appointment!! (2.5 months)
- 10/12 -1.5 (51.5 total)
- 10/19 -2.5 (54 total)
- 10/29 -3.5 (57.5 total)
- 11/7 -4.5 (62 total)
- 11/14 -2 (64 total)
- 11/15 -1 (65 total)
- 11/25 -2 (67 total)
- 12/7 -3 (70 total) whew broke the plateau
- 12/11 -2 (72 total)
- 12/28 -4 (76 total)
- 1/4/02 -1 (77 total)
- 1/22 -3.5 (80.5 total)
- 2/8 -3 (83.5 total)
- 2/10 -1.5 (85 total)
- 2/12 -2.5 (87.5 total)
- 4/2 -3 (90.5 total)
- 5/3 -5 (95.5 total)
- 5/9 -2.5 (98 total)
- 6/4 -3 (101 pounds total!!!)
-7/10 -6.5 (107.5 total!)
-10/12 -4 (111.5 total)
- 11/28 -3.5 (115 total)
-3/21 -11 (126 total)
-6/2 -3.5 (129.5 total)
**1/12/05 -131 lbs I'm at 178lbs, in a med pretty much all the way around - feel great :)
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About Me
NJ
Location
27.9
BMI
Surgery
07/30/2001
Surgery Date
Jan 12, 2001
Member Since
Before & After
rollover to see after photo
