Teri D.

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My journal has the last update and weight loss record at the bottom. If you have read it all before just skip down a ways to catch up with me.

Diet History used for approval is entered on 9/11/02.

When I began my journey...

2/7/01
I am scheduled for Open RNY surgery May 14th. I am very excited as this is my last hope. Aetna/HMO approved me on my first request and in less than 2 weeks. I understand that is a really good turnaround.

I have suffered from extreme arthritis for the last couple years and have been afraid that I would soon reach disability. I have hypertension along with the other obese related conditions that have made life miserable.

4/13/01
Update. I am just a little over 4 weeks pre-op and getting very excited. I'm also getting nervous. What if this doesn't work for me like it does others? What if something goes wrong and the doctor doesn't complete the process? I know it's silly to think like this, but I just want so badly to be able to do normal things.

I have totally given up soft drinks and really don't miss them anymore. I made this choice the day of my consult with Dr. Waits. I proceeded to lose 10lbs as a result. This 10 lbs has come an gone 2 times since then. I started out at 247 at my consult. Stopped the diet Coke and was 237 in just 4 weeks. Then went back up to 251 and I'm now at 241. I know about fluctuation, but really! I think it's due to me being so anxious about the surgery and frustrated with the long wait. I know from listening to others that the wait will be worth it. Kind of like being pregnant and knowing how much better you will feel when you aren't big anymore. I just won't have the diapers and sleepless nights. I will be the baby on liquids for awhile.

My husband has been against this but is slowly coming around I think. He's not being negative anyway which helps. My family is okay with it. I haven't told anyone but my parents and brother. I am waiting about the kids...1 stepdaughter-31 and 2 sons-23 & 27. My daughter really needs this, but I want to make sure it works for me before encouraging her. She did well with Phen-fen but of course has gained it all back plus some just like me.

I will post more later. My prayers are with us all!

5/4/01

It is really strange to sit here and talk about the next few days. I will be having surgey in just 10 days. When I started this process I weighed 247lbs. I have since gained 5lbs then started losing. I am now at 238lbs. I know it's because I have been trying to avoid sugar, fats and snacking. I know these are things I will have to do after next week.

I had my pre-op appt. with Dr. Waits yesterday. The strangest thing happened. With all the worrying over my decision, he settled me down with one statement. I was ready to leave when he asked for my hand. I put my hand in his and he said, "I am going to take good care of you." Suddenly, all of my fears and anxiety just left. I feel content that this is going to be the best thing for me.

I have a whole list of things to get done before next weekend. I will try to update more before my big day, but just in case...Keep me in your prayers.

6/7/01
Well, it certainly took me long enough to get back here. I had my surgery on 5/14/01, and it's now almost 4 weeks later. I am doing fantastic. I have lost 27 lbs. and eating some vegetables. Nothing has made me have any pain or nausea! I think that is wonderful. I am going through a whole bunch of changes though. Some days I don't even think about food and others are a real struggle. Since I can have V8 Juice, I use this to help with the head hunger. The hardest part is getting all the water in. I feel like I am floating most of the time.

My angel, Deborah Taylor, has been a great source of encouragement. I hope I can help someone else down the road.

My husband has been the most wonderful person in the world through all of this. He was very much against me having this and that is still a sore spot for us, but I couldn't have had more love and caring during the last 4 weeks. He never hesitated to help me with anything including helping me out of bed in the middle of the night. This happened several times a night when I first came home from the hospital and he was great. Usually made a joke and always made sure I was okay.

I hope to go back to work week after next. I was lucky enough to have 6 weeks paid leave and Dr. Waits suggested I take it all. I am getting a little bored though.

I will try to keep this up to date more often. Thanks to everyone who prayed for me. I felt them all.

6/21/01
Well, the last few days have been unsettling. I gained 3 then lost them.

I am now eating everything(in itty bitty quantities) on my approved list except pasta and bread. No problems. Had my check up and Dr. Waits was very happy with my progress. I have lost 3 inches in the hips and 1 in the waist. If my body would just catch up with the scales and show the missing 30lbs!

Going back to work on Monday. It's really been nice to be able to take 6 weeks paid leave for this. I highly recommend taking all the time you can. I am now exercising and that feels great. I walk a mile in 30 minutes on the threadmill. Doesn't sound like much but it took a lot of work to get to this point. I am doing very light weights to try to stay ahead of the sagging skin that is bound to come.

For all those contemplating this, remember, it is very hard work but worth it all. I have lost 30lbs forever! I know I will lose the rest overtime.

8/31/01 Update.
Below are pictures showing me in April before surgery and again in mid August, 15 weeks post-op. As of today, I have lost a total of 60 lbs and I feel wonderful. No problems and very happy I had this done. I am down from a size 24 to a size 16. On my way to the coveted size 10!

9/23/01
Yahoo! I broke the 180 boundary! At 178, I am just 31 lbs away from my first big goal - 147. That will be a loss of 100 lbs.

Found out a few things lately. Don't skip breakfast or you'll be hungry all day. Don't miss you vitamins or you'll be weak. Don't snack it can really mess with your mind! Don't neglect the water or you just won't lose. Don't use Crystal Light instead of water, either!

These are things that seem to make a difference for me. Hope it helps others.

9/30/01
Well, It seems I'm stuck losing about 2-3 lbs per week. I wish it were more, but I am so thrilled to be getting it off! I can handle this. I just need 29 more to reach my primary goal. I feel wonderful. I am eager to hear from anyone who wants to ask questions. Just drop me a note.

10/17/01

Today is my husband's birthday, but I feel like every day is a new birthday for me. It's really hard to explain to people just how good I feel now that the weight is coming off. After just 40 lbs. no longer suffered from constant pain in my feet and my legs and ankles don't swell as much. Now that I have lost a total of 74 lbs., I can do so much more. The only pain is in my arthritic hip when the weather changes. Life is really a lot more fun and workth living again. Until someone has reached the end of their rope and accepted that the weight is making the unhealthy, they just don't know what feeling good is really like.

I pray that this wonderful 'tool' will be available to anyone willing to go through the pain and life changing commitment. It is a commitment. This surgery only works if you take true advantage of it. Sometimes I feel like I may reached the peak and won't lose any more weight, then bang! Another 2-3 lbs. and I'm on my way again. I really want to lose down to somewhere between my original goal of 147(down 100 lbs.) and maybe even 135. I'm targeting that size 10 so whatever weight gets me there is where I will set my next goal. Right now, I'm down to a very loose 16 petite. Soon I will get bold enough to go shopping and try on a 14. I just don't want to try it too soon and it be tight and then I'll get discouraged. Discouragement comes easy sometimes. I guess it's because there are so many changes happening right now. Finally, my hair is returning. It's still falling out, but I can see a lot of baby hair coming in, too.

Good luck to all that read this and let me know if I can help you in any way at all.


10/25/01

I am here today to write this posting instead of testing the scales. I am working very hard to not weigh in every day. I set a goal last Monday to not touch them until Saturday, 10/27, and I'm gonna stick to it if I have scream. Last Saturday, I was down to 170. I am hoping this week it will be 3 lbs. That would make 80 total! Lately, I have been weighing almost every day and somedays the scales would fluctuate up 2-3 lbs and I would panic. By the end of the week, it would be back down and most weeks down more than it went up that week. Still the going up always upsets me. This is all still to new most of the time it just seems to good to be true. I just can't believe that I have lost 77 lbs. and can now actually wear a large top or sweater and not a 3X! I catch look in the windows or mirrors and find myself shocked that it's me looking back. I can wear a 16 petite jeans and I have friends who think I should be in at least a 12! I am very short...only 4'11". I guess I look smaller because of that.

For me this surgery has been a true miracle. I know I have probably said that before, but I still feel so lucky to have been allowed to take advantage of this wonderful tool. It truly works. I just knew I would be the one person for whom it would not work, or I wouldn't be able to stick to it. Guess what? My pouch tells me when, I just have to be conscious of the what. Really! I have no trouble choosing healthy...I love the result. My pouch send the signal when I'm full and I can listen!

From all the postings of others I have read, I don't have any problems that aren't pretty common. Dairy doesn't agree with me. Fatty foods make me nauseous. I watch out for sugar and if something has sugar, I just don't risk dumping. I may be alright with sugar. I don't want to find out. As long as I can do without it, I have a better chance of losing all I need to and then keeping it off. If I find out I can eat sugar, then I might not be able to control it properly. This surgery is not the easiest thing to have and I'm not willing to sabotage it.

I will be coming up on 6 month soon-November 14th. What a day that will be. I don't have a fantasy goal for that day, but I do want to be at 147 by April 2nd. That's my wedding aniversary. My husband and I go on a Carribean Cruise every year during the first week of April. I would love to have lost 100 lbs by then. I only have 23 to go. Should be easy. Ultimately, I think I would like for my goal weight to be around 125-130. Sounds good to me. Maybe by my 1 year post-op. That would mean 40-45 lbs to go. I like thinking in terms of 147. The sound of 23 lbs. to go just sounds to good!

11/8/01

I weighed in Saturday, 11/3/01 and guess what? Down to 165!!! This is so exciting for me. I haven't gotten used to catching a glimpse of myself in mirrors or my reflection in windows yet. I still have problems weighing only once a week but it's a lot less stressful if I can do that.
I have had some discomfort this week. I think I'm over eating or maybe I'm becoming in-tolerant to beef. I have craved spagetti for weeks now so I made some and it just made me feel bloated and uncomfortable. I only ate about 1/2 cup, but I ate a little piece of bread, too! I had my favorite chili the night before so that's beef twice in 2 days. I don't usually even eat beef, just chicken and fish. I have found my self eating more, maybe that's the problem. I know I should eat slower and not while doing something like reading other WLS members profiles. I fail to notice how much or how fast I eat when I do that.

I was a neighbors house last weekend. She has a teenage daughter who after joining the volley ball team, lost from a size 14 to a size 10-12. I jokingly said, "I got into a size 14 jeans, they were only a little tight." Well, the daughter laughed and said just a minute. she returned from her room with a basket of size 14's and told me to help myself. I actually found 3 pair of jeans and several sweaters and blouses that fit. Some tops in 12 and mediums! I can't believe this. It's just too incredible.

I feel so much better than I ever have before. I have started fearing the I will lose it all then gain it back. I know this tool will always be with me, I just have to take care of it and let it help me.

Anyone who wants to encourage me, or ask questions, please just send me a note. Even if you want to scold me for snacking which I'm guilty of doing once in while, I'd love to hear from you. If someone out there has been considering this treatment for obesity, well, I can only say this. "Go for it if you really want to feel good and be happy!" Just remember, there will be life changing events with or without this. With the surgery, you get a lot of benefits. Without it, obesity can kill you.

11/19/01

I went for my 6 months post-op appointment this morning. Dr. Waits office staff is the best. I am down to a more than comfortable size 14; I've lost 86 lbs. and feel like a whole new person. I actually look forward to the holidays. for the first time, I know I'm in control and can get past them without endangering myself with food. This surgery is truly the best tool to obtain a healthly weight and lifestyle. It gives you the control and the rest is up to you! Anyone considering it, Go for it! It has saved my life.

11/30/01
I'm stuck!!!!Still at 161. earlier this week I was up to 163. I know it's just a plateau, but gee, it's hard. Yesterday, I felt so fat again. Today is better. I have not been exercising and I know that is not good, but somehow, I just can't find the time. I commute more than an hour each way to work and leave home before 6am so I have to get to bed early. Doesn't leave much me time. Lots of people are telling me how 'skinny' I'm getting...Ijust do't see it and can't get used to then making that kindof remark. I know that at a size 14, I'm not gross anymore, but I don't see skinny either. My husband says he doesn't want me to lose anymore...he also says that it probably want matter what he wants...it does. I have gone through all of this just to be healthy enough to be with him for a long long lifetime. He's been great helping me and making accomodations for my new lifestyle, I think he's just feeling a little unsure of the new me. I love him more than ever and want to be healthly regardless of how I look. I don't think I will consider any reconstructive surgery unless medically necessary...it's just not that important.

If anyone is considering this surgery, don't make the mistake I made and do all the research and info gathering alone. Include your spouse and be sure to talk with them alot before doing this. I really didn't let my husband in on the research, just more or less told him, I wanted to do it and had an appointment. I think that approach has left him feeling like he was not considered or important somehow...Nothing could be further than the truth. I just had a hard time talking about my weight problems with him. He's always been dedicated to working out and staying fit. He's overweight but in tremendous shape anyway. I hate lifting weights and he loves doing it. Oh well. Maybe I can get more involved with the weights...that would certainly make him happier. We would then enjoy working out together.

I hope this stuck point ends soon...

12/01/01

It's so weird how I can feel so down one day because I think I'm stuck and then low and behold...I'm down 4 lbs! Me at 157 lbs...just too good to be true. God has truly been blessing my efforts. My surgery has been the best thing for my health. It's just a tool and I have had to really work through alot of emotions and there have been some really difficult times, but it's all been worth it.

I took measurements this weekend and gosh, I'm 40-32-41! Not bad since just 6 months ago, I weighed 247 lbs and had a 48 inch waist! I can even button a size 12. Now, I know it was tighter than appropriate, but hey, it buttoned and zipped!

I really want to get on the workout bandwagon. I just don't want to see the lbs. climb due to a build up in muscle even if I want to see the muscle. It's supposed to help tighten this incredibly saggy skin. The worst in in my legs and of course my 'granny' arms. My tummy is bad but hey, I'm never gonna want to wear a bikini...it's just not my style. I sure hope I can find a really strong supportive one piece next spring. My husband and I go on a cruise for our wedding aniversary each year in April. Need a good swim suit for that. And this year I want have to cover it with a T-shirt in a 3XL. I can actually wear nothing but the swim suit. If you look at my before picture, you can see that hidden under the T-shirt is an orange swimsuit. That's the only way I would show it.

Anybody want a pen pal, just drop me a note...I'm encouraged and inspired by corresponding with folks who are or have been where I am and I certainly enjoy questions from newbies. It seems that when I get stuck, a note from someone else about all of this is just what I need to get through.

12/31/01
It's the end of an eventful year for me. I had reached my all time high of 252 lbs. Had surgery and lost down to a low that I can never remember being at before...I now weigh only 150 lbs!!! This is just too good to be true. Most importantly, I feel great and can even enjoy working out in the gym. Just when I thought the weight loss had slowed, it's still going down at a steady pace. My official pre-surgery weight was 247 and I dreamed of maybe being able to lose 100 lbs. I'm just 3 lbs away.

It's time to list the few negatives from this surgery.

1. It requires a true desire to change your lifestyle. I have always enjoyed eating out, I still do. I just don't eat things that aren't good for me. My favorite things are Grilled Salmon, Shrimp or other fish, spicy chicken dishes and anything that is low fat/low carbo.

2. Not everyone is happy for me. I guess there are people who are jealous and of course there are people who think I took an 'easy way out' or did this for vanity sake. They couldn't be more wrong. This is not an easy way to lose 100 lbs. There is no easy way. It takes work to keep up the protein and exercise necessary to maintain healthy muscles!

3. I'm still not comfortable telling just everyone how I have lost so much weight. I don't know why. I just feel this is a very private matter and not everyone will respect that I was in such a positon that I felt my life was in danger.

4. Clothes are really expensive when you changes sizes about every 4 weeks! I have gone from a tight 24 to a comfortable 12 in less than 8 months. Dream goal is a size 10 and that's within sight!

5. Saggy skin is a price you have to pay.

6. Doing without sugar during the holidays was no problem, but I did find myself eating too many starchy foods like bread and potatoes. This made me feel bloated and cranky. I'm not sure why unless it's a result of blood sugar changes.

7. I'm afraid of reaching the end of this journey. While every step of the way, I've dealt with emotional issues, right now I'm afraid that once I reach my smallest, I will start climbing again. I know that it can happen if I change back to old habits of eating the un-healty stuff...I guess what they tell you in Weight Watchers and at the nutrionists is really true. To lose weight and keep it off, you have to change your lifestyle not just go on a diet. Well, at least the surgery is a tool that helps you learn to do that and it really works.

1/11/02
Well, it's the new year and I'm under 150!!! Another 2 lbs this week. I haven't been working out like I 'd like...had an awful sinus infection earlier this week. My PCP ran some labs when I went in for the sinus thing and called yesterday to day my lab work came out excellent! That's good news. I hope to hit the gym tonight.

My husband and I are planning a cruise in the spring and I'm going to the tanning bed so I won't sunburn. This year I will be able to wear a swimsuit and lay out by the pool and on the beach in the Carribean. I can't wait. Hope I can find that super strong spandex swimsuit to hold in the saggy skin in my tummy.

I feel better and better everyday and it's not just because I can wear nice clothes, I just don't have the pain I once did not so long ago.

My prayers are with everyone who needs this tool. I hope you get it soon. I'm available for chit chat whenever...just let me know.

1/14/02

So strange. It's been 8 mos. to the day since my surgery. I reached my goal of losing 100 lbs. on Saturday. My brand new size 12's are very loose. I'm not ready to try the coveted size 10 yet. My goal all along has been to lose 100 lbs and wear a size 10. Well, weight is done and the size is almost there. I wouldn't mind losing more...but, I am very happy to be where I am. I never dreamed it would be possible. Sometimes I still get very afraid of waking up and finding out it was a dream. It wasn't. No more pain, no more embarassment. Just too wonderful.

I can eat a little more now than a few weeks ago. I just don't let myself. This surgery provided me with a tool that works if I use it. I can control what I eat and how much. That's the best feeling.

1/22/02

Still holding steady at 147-148. I know it's only been a little over a week since I first hit 147(down 100lbs!!), but I need to see that go down a little more. I hear you reach your lowest weight and then usually go up a little bit. Well, I don't want to hit th lowest yet! I want to always stay under 147. That means I have to get down lower than that. Patience is a little hard to come by right now. I'm finding some of my size 12's a little loose. Not quite ready for size 10 yet, but I hope to be able to buy some 10's for vacation. We haven't set the cruise date yet. Still looking at early March. That's just around the corner. It'd sure be nice to be at my goal of a size 10 by then.

I found out that I can now wear the smallest size Leggs Panty hose. Before surgery, I could only wear the 3x in Just my size. I couldn't find any others that would fit and the 3x was way too long. I don't mind dresses and panty hose anymore. I actually look forward to dressing up. My office is business casual, but I can wear dresses or suits if I want to and now I do! Yey!!!!!

I will try to stay off the scales until Saturday and hope that I have it down to 145 by then. That'd be way cool!

1/29/02

Well I made it until Saturday(1/26) was down to 145, that's a loss of 102 lbs!!!!!!!Now it's Tuesday, just couldn't wait. I've lost another 2 lbs. Now I'm sown to 143. Incredible. Went to the mall and everythign I tried on fit in a size 10. Made that goal.

2/18/02

Looks like a couple update have disappeared. I have been having a bit of a roller coaster lately...I have lost and gained and lost the same 4lbs. I am staying pretty stead at 141 and that's wonderful for me. Some of my size 12's are way too big!!! Seriously buying 10's now. So strange.

Emotionally, everyting is really weird. I so afraid of reaching my ideal weight. I'm afraid that once the shrinking stops, I'll only start gaining again. I know that it can happen, and that I have learned to eat healthy and exercise and as long as I stick to that, I'll be fine, but my head just get's in the way sometimes.

Looking forward to a cruise March 3rd. Been doing alot of shopping for it and having the time of my life in the mall. The first time ever, I can look at the regular sizes and feel ok. Yesterday, trying on a new bra, the fitting room attendant made a joke about how tiny people wear little scraps for bras. It took me a minute to realize she was talking about me. I've gone from a 44DD to a 34D... Didn't know that D-cups were so hard to find in a 34. Plenty of 36's that are too big, though.

I'm thinking of my step daughter more and more lately. She really could benefit from WLS. Problem is she still doesn't know about mine. We haven't seen each other in over a year. I'm just not comfortable with telling her about it yet. My husband says wait and since it's his daughter, that's what I'll do. Pray for this situation.

Later...

3/14/02
It's been 10 months. Wow! I have lost 110 lbs. since my official pro-op weight. My highest was just a few weeks earlier at 252 so all total, I've lost 115 lbs! Who would have ever guessed. I can now fit into a lot of size 8's. Folks tell me that I look so tiny, like maybe a 4 or 6. Haha. Though I guess it could happen. I would have never thought a size 8 would!

My husband and I just returned from a cruise where, believe it or not, I lost 2 lbs!!!! I was so worried because I was eating foods that I normally don't touch and eating what seemed like constantly when really it was just a couple times more a day. We went to the midnight buffet and had snacks in the afternoon, I just tried to be careful of the portions and not over fill my pouch. I want to always take care of it first and foremost. Guess these steps worked out ok. I had none of the pain and fatigue like I did last year. That made a world of difference. I really enjoyed having my picture taken too.

Hope everyone is doing well...later.

4/11/02

I just had to post a warning to everyone. You can lose more than weight after surgery. Be careful with your jewelry. I've lost so much weight, till my engagement ring fell of in the toilet when I flushed it! My screamed and then cried for a very long time. My dear sweet husband felt so bad for me that he took my wedding band away and then took me to the jewelers to have my ring, watch and bracelet re-sized. While we were there he bought me a new engagement ring, it's so beautiful. Can't replace the original, but I'm already in love with. We celebrated our 14th wedding aniversary a week later and he said he had planned to give me a new diamond for that anyway.

I'm having an rough week...work and family both. My son injured his hand at work and may need surgery, I'm retaining fluid or something, cause I feel so swollen. I suspect a bladder infection. Guess I haven't been drinking enough water. Also, I found out I can't tolerate the new Russell Stover Sugar Free chocolates. I found them at the supermarket and thought I would try them, I've always loved chocolate and caramel. Well, no go. They caused me excrutiating gas pains so I just won't eat them again. I know that what did it, cause I tested it again several days later. Good to know. I shouldn't eat candy anyway even if it's sugar free.

Hope everyone is doing well...I'm almost 11 mos. post-op and so very thankful for having the oportunity to have surgery.

4/22/02

Well, it finally happened. I've been called skinny, tiny and told I was too thin. My husband insists that I better not lose any more weight. Like I can stop it. I had to go out and buy a new size in jeans and dress slacks this weekend...when he found out that the new ones were size 6, he was very upset...I know he loves me and is just worried that I might become anorexic, or lose so much that I'm no longer healthy. i think that due to all the exercise, I'm just really mostly firming and toning up and not really losing too much. I know my goal was 147/size 10 and I pasted that a while back. I'm happy and feel wonderful. I eat properly...small portions, no sugar, lo carbs. I do eat 3 small meals and 3 light snacks. The snacks are either a Balance Bar or fruit depending on whether I need extra protein for the day. Usually, I eat one for breakfast to get the day started right and then have fruit for the other snacks. I believe this is helping me with my exercise and most important...I believe the correct amount of protein helps curb head hunger.

I'll soon go for my 1 year post-op appt. and I'm really excited to hear what my surgeon has to say...I know he's always seemed very pleased with my progress and so am I!

5/9/02
I just don't understand. I go from feeling so confident and happy to being down in the dumps for no reason...Seems that when the scales start their little 3-4 lb dance batck and forth, I just go crazy. I'm still losing an average of 4 lbs. a month, but I feel so afraid of gaining that any fluctuation just drives me up the wall. I was up to 130 this morning...was down to 127 2 days ago. I know I should stay off the scales, but I'm afraid that some wight will sneek back on if I'm not looking. Is that crazy or what?

I feel wonderful, exercise consistently and am very careful of what I eat. I do feel so much hungrier lately...I tell myself it's all the exercise. I still seem to be losing inches...I can wear just about any size 6 and all 8's. The skirt I have on today is a 6 and it's even very loose in the waist! Soooo, what am I freaking for...I just don't know. If anyone else had this problem, please let me know what to do about it.

5/14/02
It's my first re-birthday!!! One year since surgery and I'm half the woman I used to be...I now weigh 126 and have lost 126! I weighed at my PCP yesterday and actually weighed 123 on his scales so maybe even lower. Today on my regular scales, I'm still at 126. My 12 month post-op appt. is next Monday, 5/20. I can't wait.

This year has really flown by and I couldn't be happier. I can now wear most any size 6. I feel better than ever. This miracle has truly been a blessin for me. I have no regrets other than I wish I could have done it sooner.

Food wise, things are great. I still can only eat about 1/2 to 3/4 cup of food. I hope that never changes. I believe the small portions are the key. I can eat most anything I want with the exception of dairy...no milk, yogurt or cheese. The most wonderful thing is that I only want to eat healthy foods. I can't stand anything with a lot of fat in it. I'm not sure if it really makes me queasy or if it's psychological(sp) or what. I don't test it. I don't test sugar either...never have and don't want to know if I willhave problems with sugar. I don't really miss it. I still haven't eaten real steak and probably won't...don't need it. Chicken is fine and so is fish. I've had no caffeine or carbonated drinks since before surgery and I believe I'm the better for it. I don't miss those things either. I guess it really is better to leave off the tea and coffee.

I'm just beginning to feel thin to myself. So far I think of myself and still see fat. But the last few days, it's been different. I feel like I'm beginning to be normal. I don't look at other women wishing I could be as thin as they are. I feel ok with myself for the first time in my life and it's so wonderful. I truly love myself instead of hating what I see and feel every waking moment. I just can't describe the difference.

If I can halp anyone out there, please send me a note...I'll do my best.

5/20/02
Down to 123! I just can't believe it. My BMI is actually stating that I'm within the normal range...Wow!

6/11/02
It's been a while since I posted...due to gaining 6 lbs. and then working very hard to figure out why. I think it was due to eating bread and not watching my salt intake. I normally don't eat bread. It just fills me up too quick and I can't eat enough protein to feel good if I fill up on lettuce or bread first. Also,I have a tendency to retain fluid easily. I guess that was what happened, though it was causing some panic.

I am now back down to where I want to remain...123lbs. I feel good at this weight and can wear the size 6's and some 8's like I want to.

I can't say enough about how much happier I am now. I love life and everything around me. I feel good and can do anyting I want. Including eating out and enjoying that. I used to think that I'd never be able to eat normal. Well, guess what? Who knows what normal is? For me, it's eating jsut about anything but not stuffing myself. I get the most pleasure out of sitting down to a meal and eating a healthy portion and feeling myself being full and knowing that my tool is still working! It's just the greatest thing. Giving up sugar, milk and bread - it's just such a small price to pay. I don't really miss any of it...well sometimes the bread. And I do eat a little once in while without problems, just can't handle a sandwich or eating it more than once in a day.

Good luck to everyone...later.

7/5/02

Well, gee! I just tried soemthing I never would have considered before...I went to GAP for jeans. I now wear a size 4!!!!!!!!!! I can't believe it. I haven't really dropped much weight but the exercise is still firming things up...For everyone out there, please please remember how important working out is. I truly don't believe I would be this healthy or sucessful without it. I know, everyone hates the thought of having to work out. I did too. But now I love it. Now that I'm not heavy anymore, it's not painful and I feel so good afterward. I took measurements and boy was this a surprise...35, 27, 35!!!! Isn't that something?

Anyone needs a pen pal, just drop me a note.

8/12/02
Here I am approaching 15 months and still dropping a little bit...isn't it wonderful...Who would have ever dreamed that Teri Duffey would ever weigh only 118 lbs. Well, that was yesterday and I'm floating back up today...still only 119. I know I shouldn't weigh everyday, but I just can't help it. I'm so afraid of gaining and I feel like I eat way too much...I guess it's because of the exercise, but I eat 6 small meals a day. I still only eat about 12/ - 3/4 cup at a time and I stick to the rules of protein first, then healthy carbs. No drinking with meals and then tons of water...Let me tell you folks...artificial sweeteners are satan reincarnated. Let me drink some Crystal Light or eat a sugar free piece of candy and bang! I'm starving, swelling and gaining at least 2 lbs.!!!! I hope no one else has this problem. I love my Crystal Light and let myself have treat once in a while, but I can always expect the scales to notice.

I have found out that high fat foods are not agreeing with me at all...I suffer from extreme gas if I eat anything like butter, greasy onion rings, cream sauces, or cheese. I know better than to even try these things...we all know they are bad for us, but once in while I'll eat a little bit and then pay for it. Unlike before surgery, when I'd eat a lot of it and the only price was on the scales...now I can stop at a little, feel yuck due to the gas and then the scales appreciate the control. Thank God for WLS!!!!!

9/5/02
I've had lots of request for the rules I follow so I decided to post what works for me here. I know everyone is different and some won't have to go this route and others this might not work for, but it works for me.

1. Drink lots of water, more than just 64 oz. if possible. I find it helps if I use a straw and filter my water with a Britta Pitcher. I also like it on ice. I carry a water bottle everywhere I go with out exception. I've done this since day one.

2. Never ever under any circumstances drink with meals or food. I always time it a full 30 minutes after eating before I drink anything. Drink water before meals and water load 15 minutes before you eat. Remember if you have a snack that counts and you have to wait to drink...lot's of times I'll not eat a bite of something because I don't want to have to wait to drink my water.

3. I measured my food quantities the first 3 months. I kept the medicine cup from Nyquil and used that to measure out 3 oz. of food total. I eat 3 "meals" and 3 snacks a day. My snacks are high protein or fruit only. Tyson short cuts are my protein snacks. Sort cuts are grilled chick strips in the meat dept. of my grocery store. I just grab a couple strips and go. Now, at 16 months post-op, weighting 117 lbs. having lost 135, I can eat a little more. Example. I don't finish a regular Lean Cuisin. I probably could if I tried, but I don't let myself because I know I'm ok with just a little more than half. So I stop when I get there. I pick out the protein parts first then eat some of the rest. Drink lots of water.

4. Do not skip breakfast. I don't like breakfast food, but can tolerate oatmeal if I have to. I did manage soft scrambled egg when that was first allowed, but as soon as I could I changed to something else. I often eat grilled chicken for breakfast. After about 5 months, I found I could eat Balance Gold nutrition bars without dumping so now that is my breakfast. I love the Caramel Nut Blast flavor. Drink lots of water

5. I'm lactose intolerant( this started about 8 weeks post-op). My surgeon is against protein shakes. He wants me to get my protein from real chicken, pork, and seafood. I eat ground beef if it's lean and crumbled really small in spagetti sauce or chili. I eat soft tacos made with ground beef or turkey. I always eat protein first. My surgeon wants me to elarn to eat a balanced meal with very small portions not be on a specific diet that I could go on and off of. Drink lots of water.

6. Keep things as low fat as you can...fatty foods cause dumping. Drink lots of water
7. Keep artificial sweeteners to a minimum...they stimulate my appetite. When I crave something sweet, I eat a piece of real fruit. I have found bananas too sweet but everything else is fine. Drink lots of water.

8. Exercise! Start out by walking as much as you can everyday starting as soon as the nurse gets you out of bed after surgery. It works out the soreness quicker. After you get home, walk in the house at least 4 times a day for as long as you can. Gradually work up to going outside and increase your walk every day. When you are about 6 weeks post-op, start using small hand weights and do strength training. Get on a routine of at least 4 times a week and work up to about 6 different exercises, 3 set each, with 12-15 repetitions each set. This takes me about an hour. Keep walking on the days you don't do weights.

I guess you can tell that I believe in water...it satisfies the hunger and protects your pouch. I also believe that exercise will always have to be a part of my life. When they say this is tool, believe it. WLS is not a miracle cure and does require you to make a life style change, one that you will live with the rest of your life, but it 's worth it because it works. I'm proof.

9/11/02
I've been asked by several posters for my diet history letter used for insurance approval. Here it is. Please excuse any formating problems.

Diet History
Date Diet Result
1999 Weight Watchers + 6 lbs. in 4 weeks
1996 Phen-Fen - 50 lbs in 10 mo./regained in 2 yrs
1995 Nutritionist w/Glucophage - 12 lbs in 5 mo./regained in 2 mo.
1992 Weight Watchers - 24 lbs in 7 weeks/hit plateau/regained in 6 mo.
1987 Fastin - 27 lbs in 2 mo./maintained for 1 yr/regained 2 yrs
1985 Weight Watchers - 24 lbs in 7 weeks/regained in 1 yr.
1975 Medical Weight Loss Clinic - 27 lbs in 4 mo./regained in 1 yr.
1973 Hi-Protein/Starvation - 35 lbs in 3 mo./regained in 1 yr.

Medical Problems
„h Maximum Weight ¡V 252Lbs.
„h High Blood Pressure
„h Borderline Diabetic
„h Heartburn and reflux
„h Arthritis
„h Sleep Apnea
„h Edema (legs, feet and hands)
„h Leg cramps
„h Extreme Fatigue
„h Incontinence
„h Fibromyalgia
„h Chest Pains ¡V 2 hospitalizations
„h Shortness of Breath

Medications
„h Atenol (100mg)
„h Zestril (10mg)
„h Lasix (40mg)
„h Premarin (1.25mg)
„h Celebrex (2x daily)
„h Celexa
„h Mylanta (2-3 times a day)

3/18/03 Wow! I didn't realize it had been so long since I updated my profile. Life is just so wonderful. I'm staying put at around 115-117 lbs. though I did see 110 one time on my scales at home. I went through about 2-3 months where I wasn't working out and I think that's why I only saw the 110 the one time. Still, it's possible that I've done the rebound thing and will now be able to maintain 115-117 as long as I keep up the exercise and avoid the bad stuff. Too many carbs make me feel bad anyway. I can eat almost anything except sugar and dairy. I can now eat about a cup full of food and sometimes it seems like a little more. Sometimes not that much. But making healthy choices is easier than it's ever been. I'm just too happy to be at a healthy weight and too happy to feel good to jeapordize it in any way. I weigh myself at least twice a week and this helps keep my focused as well as helping me monitor the fluid retention that I will always have a problem with. but my labs are great and I'm considering a tt with my hernia repair. The hernia's have started causing me a lot of pain and I might as well get them taken care of. I'm hoping for insurance approval for the tummy tuck at the same time... Well, I'll try to keep this profile updated more often and not just read and answer questions. Anybody reading this need a pen pal, here I am...

8/29/03
Gee, I'm very bad about keeping this updated...A lot has been happening in my life. I was laid off from my job in April, moved from Dallas, GA to Leesburg, Fl and I've taken a new and wonderful job. Since Dallas is a suburb of Atlanta, I was accustomed to a long commute and I now have another. While I live in Leesburg, I work in Orlando. About 55 miles apart. But I love new job and want to stay as close to my parents in Summerfield as I can.

But all this turmoil in my life has taken it's toll. I believe the stress of job change, building a house and hubby out of work has led to me gaining weight. During the early part of the year, I was staying pretty stead around 113-115, I'm now struggling to get down from 123-125! This has me in tears. I know 10 lbs. is often considered normal bounce back, but I'm just miserable. I know it's the stress, I find myself grazing during times of really bad stress at work, sometimes it seems I'm munching on crackers and peanut butter all day long! I try to take fruit for snacks, but still catch myself obsessing about junk food. I still eat small meals, rarely finishing a Lean Cuisine, but in an hour or so, I'm finding something going from my hand to my mouth.

I hope I can get control of the grazing...and get back to exercising on schedule. Right now, I'm working 11-13 hours a day and commuting an hour each way, so the gym is just fitting in except on weekends.

I'd still say to anyone, this surgery is the best thing to every happen to me except of course Christ and family. I'm going to miss Dr. Waits and I hope to find a new Bariatric surgeon to do my follow up. Any advice from you all out there is very welcome.

5/14/04 3 Year Aniversary Update

Well, it’s been 3 years! Wow, what a journey…I am so thankful for this surgery. Even though I was unfortunate enough to suffer from ‘bounce back’ weight gain of about 15 lbs that I can’t seem to get rid of, I’m happier than I’ve ever been in my life.

WLS truly saved my life. I eat pretty normal now, although, I’m still a dumper, still lactose intolerant and still struggle with grazing tendencies. My tool is still keeping my portions small, but I can enjoy a meal without any problems as long as I watch the sugar and dairy, mostly cheese.

My health is great. I still have arthritis, but no problems with my blood pressure or diabetes. I have the energy to work 50+ hours a week and make a 60 minute commute each way to work and still have enough left to be a pretty good wife to my darling husband. He’s been the most wonderful support I could ask for. God truly blessed me with him.

I’ve moved from Atlanta, GA to Leesburg, FL so I don’t have a regular WLS surgeon anymore, but my PCP is watching my labs and says I’m doing fine.

I recommend this solution to obesity to anyone who is willing to commit to it. It does take a commitment. I don’t publize too much that I had WLS to lose the weight, it just doesn’t come up that often since I’ve moved and no one knows that I was ever obese. That’s kind of nice.

I read a lot about people being frustrated or insulted that they are treated differently after losing weight. I am too. But I think most of it is because of how I treat myself and others. Now, I’m happy with me whereas before I couldn’t stand myself. I didn’t realize how I felt about myself, which took a lot of time to learn. The old saying that you can’t love others until you can love yourself seems to apply. People seem to respond to me the same way I respond to them. When I’m confident and open, people are more comfortable around me. I used to try to either hide and be invisible or make jokes at myself to cover my insecurity or shame at being overweight. This either made people try to cooperate by ignoring me or by joining the jokes. Let’s face it, even when I made fun of myserlf it hurt just as bad as when others made fun of me. Now no one makes fun of me except to tease me about being, get this…tiny. Me, tiny. Who would have ever thought it.

It’s been hard for me to see myself as tiny, especially since I’m holding pretty steady at 130 after having gotten down to 115 in January of 2003. But I still fit in some size 4’s and everything else is pretty much a 6. Once in while, it will take an 8, but so what. I’m comfortable and happy and 6’s and 8’s are easier to find than 4’s. Hubby likes me better at 130 than at 115. I’d prefer to lose the extra 15 lbs. but maybe this is weight I’m supposed to be at, I don’t know.

This is long update, but it’s been a long time since I posted. I watch the Q&A and message board and love to hear from others who are on this journey. Some think that once the weight loss stops and we reach our set point that the journey is over, but I don’t. I think it will go on for the rest of my life. I made a commitment to changing my life and using the tool God and Dr. Waits gave me for the rest of my life and that’s what I’m doing. And I’m very very happy!!!

5/15/07
WOW!!! I can't believe I haven't been back on here to update in so long but I've been going through a really bad time. I've found out that WLS doesn't cure Fibromyalgia. Funny I thought it would be some magic cure for the rest of my for every ailment I would ever have. My doctors do tell me that without out it I wouldn't be alive to have to worry about my current state of affairs and my illnesses are not lif threatening as they were before WLS so I'm still thanking God daily for WLS.

I'm just having to deal with a permnent disabling seizure disorder of unknown origin and the FMS(Firbromyalgia). But the good news is my sweet little pouch is serving me well and my weight is not a problem any more. If anything, I sometimes get down to low, as low as 105lbs. But mostly around 110 these days and no problems with any foods except I still avoid all sugar, dairy and fatty foods. Hey, that leaves me with a pretty healthy set of choices.

For anyone out there just researching WLS --My advice is still 100% in favor of RNY Gastric Bypass. I've been to too many doctors at too many research centers and universities and they all say my current problems are not related in any way to my surgery and my health has benefited by my weight loss. They are sure the I did the right thing by having it done. They all agree I probably would be dead if I hadn't had it.

With the exception of my disabilties, life is pretty good. My dear sweet husband has retired so that he can take care of me since I have to have a full time care giver be cause of the seizures, but that just means we have a lot of quality time together and he is so wonderful, I am truly blessed.

I'll try to come out her more often, but it's hard for me these day because of my concentration level and the meds I'm on.

Good luck to everyone. May God Bless you all.



History
5/14/01 - Surgery---Open RNY Distal 252lbs/BMI 50.1
6/7/01 3+weeks post-op 220lbs
6/11/01 4wks 217 -30
6/18/01 5wks 220 -27 up 3
6/21/01 217 -30 down 3
8/30/01 15wks 187 -60 lbs.
9/30/01 19wks 176 -71 lbs.
10/13/01 22wks 173 -74 lbs.
10/20/01 23wks 170 -77 lbs.
11/3/01 25wks 165 -82 lbs.
11/19/01 27wks/6months 161 -86 lbs.
12/01/01 29wks 157 -90 lbs.
12/17/01 31wks 155 -92 lbs.
12/31/01 33wks 150 -97 lbs.
1/07/02 34wks 148 -99 lbs.
1/14/02 8 mos. 147 -100 lbs.
1/26/02 36wks 145 -102 lbs.
1/29/02 36wks+ 143 -104 lbs.
2/18/02 9 mos. 142 -105 lbs.
3/14/02 10 mos. 137 -110 lbs.
4/8/02 10+mos. 131 -116 lbs.
4/22/02 11+mos. 128 -119 lbs.
5/14/02 1 year 123 -124 from surgery, 129 from maximum weight.

6/11/02 1yr 1mo. 122 -130
7/5/02 13mos.+ 121 -131
8/12/02 15mos. 118 -134
9/5/02 16mos. almost 117 -135
3/13/03 22 mos. 113 -139
8/29/03 27 mos. 125 -127 boy this hurts!
5/14/04 3 years 130 -122 holding steady.
5/15/07 6 years 110 -142 all time low.


Photos

252 lbs On vacation a month before surgery-dropped 5 lbs before surgery

123 One year aniversary-lost 129 lbs. Size 6!!!! This is truly a miracle.

Product Reviews

• Balance - Balance Gold Bars
• Balance Bar Company - Balance Complete Nutritional Food Bars
  
  Weight Loss Survey Responses
  Click Here To View
  
  Surgeon Info:
  Surgeon: Edward J. Waits M.D.
  I really like his grandfatherly demeanor. He makes me feel like he will take really good care of me and understands my difficulty. His office staff couldn't be more caring and concerned. Dr. Waits is very encouraging that doing this is right for me and will help relieve the pain and constant discomfort that I live with. It's really obvious he does this to help people who need it and it's important to him to do that. I would have liked a little more time for questions on my first visit, but I expect that to be handled next time.
  Insurer Info:
  Aetna HMO, US Healthcare
  My insurance company couldn't have been more timely. Dr. Waits office submitted the request on 1/24/01 and by 2/5/01, I was approved.
  
   

About Me

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