New Here!

[Guest guest]

Hi Suzanne,

Please post the list. Both my father and I will be having the surgery together on the same day. We are meeting with Dr. A for a consultation on the 23rd.

I can't wait to start this journey, I know this is the best choice for both of us to get our lives healthier and happier!

From: "SuzanneSH@..." <SuzanneSH@...> Sent: Mon, January 11, 2010 10:55:04 AMSubject: Re: New here!

Hi Katya,

Not too many of us like Isopure--we call it ISOPUKE. It does not taste good. The 1st 10 days needs to be clear liquids, so you need to find a protein that you can mix with water. I know that a lot of people have different proteins that have tried. www.unjury.com was where I got some protein that was chicken broth that I tried and used for a while. But to be honest with you the 1st 10 days I wasn't really so concerned about the protein thing. That might not be good for everyone, but I waited until I got to the next 10 days and used my Premier Protein Drink that I love and just used it. Find something you like, because if it taste bad you don't want to be forced to deal with it when you get home. For me the 10 days chicken broth what great for me. I had a difficult time swallowing any medication. I would suggest a liquid

vitamin or a good adult chewable vitamin is what you need. I don't think there is one person who has a regret at all. I am not sure what you are saying when you say complications. My potassium was low, but I knew it was low before I had the surgery. You need to have a doctor that you can check with when you get home. You need to make sure they do your blood work so that you know you are doing ok.

You asked how do you stop losing weight. Well, how did you gain weight--eating more calories? So here is my suggestion. Eat a little more and exercise a little less. You will find your set point and it will be pretty easy to maintain. If you are losing and don't want to increase the amount of calories you are eating and don't exercise so much. Seems pretty simple to me. Calories in and calories out.

I hope that helps. It is always good to come back and ask any question that you might have. I have a list of things to take with you to Mexico if you would like I will post it for you. Just let me know.

Suzanne

225 125 125

Start Now Goal

Sleeved 10/21/08

In a message dated 1/10/2010 6:41:23 P.M. Pacific Standard Time, kspuhlerhotmail (DOT) com writes:

Hi everyone! I am scheduled to have my sleeve with Dr. Aceves on the 23rd of January. I have been reading your posts for weeks now and wanted to thank you for all of the great information and support you've been providing. Since I scheduled my surgery a bunch of questions started to pop up, and hopefully I'll be able to have them answered here. For the clear liquids phase of the post op diet, do you buy the ISOPURE powder and mix it in water? What flavors are good? It also says I need to take the multivitamin, should I get that in liquid form? Or do I start the vitamins after the liquid phase is over? Anyone had any regrets/complicatio ns with the sleeve? Also, after you get to your goal, how do you stop the weight loss? I don't want to end up looking sick if I lose too much. I "only" need to lose 60-70 lbs. Sorry, so many questions! Thanks in advance for all of your help!Katya

[Guest guest]

Hi Katya,

That is wonderful that both you and your Dad are going to do this together. Please keep us informed as how you are doing. Take lots of before pictures of the two of you. We are looking forward to going on your journey with you. I get so excited when I see people on this journey of saving their life along with someone in their family joining them too. Here is my list I always have it saved on my computer and I am happy to post it for anyone that is going. Take care and I will be thinking about you.

Let’s see if I can remember what are important things to bring with you.

1. Gas-X because you will have gas after the surgery and they don't have Gas-X in Mexico. They (the nurses and doctors) will ask you are you passing gas? It is nice to have this on the plane ride home too after the surgery. I bought a box (of 36 tabs) of Gas-X (thin strips) that you just put the strip in your mouth. It tastes good and it is easy to take--no water required—nothing difficult to swallow either.

2. A comfortable bra & panties--nothing very tight (cotton is nice—what ever you like to wear) to wear home on the plane or if you want to wear these items in the hospital. Everyone was pretty relaxed with what they slept in or wore around the hospital. I didn't bring a robe at all--Just T-shirts and comfortable pants. Maybe a sweatshirt because the air conditioner makes it cool sometimes and then there are times when the air conditioner isn’t working that well. Bring some extra T-shirts in case you spill on yourself. My IV came out and I got blood on one of my T-shirts. I just washed it out in the sink and hung it up in the shower to dry.

3. Drawstring pants or pants with elastic waist—nothing tight around the middle section. I had some Nike walking pants and they were very comfortable—or short, or pants you would wear to relax in. I also had some that I wore to sleep in, walk around the hospital in and wore them home on the plane too (a pair for each day you are going to be away from home). Sweatpants work great too. I was there in Oct and so the air conditioning was going and sometimes it was cool at night when I was sleeping--so I brought some warm socks along too. But in some rooms the air conditioning wasn't working so well in their rooms and they were warmer than some of us were. If it is too warm or too cold tell one of the nurses they will help you with anything you need. They are excellent when you need something—don’t be afraid to ask.

4. A heating pad--I was so glad I had mine (someone had suggested I bring one) because it felt good on my stomach area. When my feet were cold at night I used my heating pad on my feet. Also when I was there with a friend for her surgery in April 2009 I found out at the nurse’s stations they also had heating pads—so if you don’t want to bring your own use their’s.

5. Some kind of slip on shoe for the plane ride home and something to wear in the hospital (I had some flip flops for the hospital and some clogs for the plane ride home. Flip flops didn't take up a lot of room in your suitcase. I also carried on the plane my tote bag carrying some things like, meds, change of underwear—in case my suitcase got lost, a snack so I could eat something after the tests that first day you arrive—because they will tell you not to eat a few hours before you get to Mexicali because of the tests you are going to be having upon arrival at the hospital in Mexicali. Sometimes you have to wait for everyone to have their test before they take you to the hotel and your are soooooooo hungry because you haven’t eaten anything all day long because most of us are flying into San Diego, so bring a snack that you can eat after your tests while waiting to go to the hotel. I brought along some packages of trail mix—bring what you like.

6. Only one (1) small or medium sized suitcase with wheels is really great because you will have to deal with your own suitcase at the airport (coming and going). I also brought along my laptop computer so I could stay in touch with my friends and family—I carried that on the plane too—don’t put it in a suitcase—too much stuff has been stolen out of suitcases.

7. Please be aware if you use your cell phone in Mexicali they will charge you roaming fees to CALL OUT. For me if people called me from the US to Mexicali and they were calling my Cell Phone there were NO ROAMING charges because they called me from the US. Most all cell phones work in Mexicali; I think they said Cricket was the only r that they had problems with. I didn't have anyone come with me for the surgery, and they were so nice as to call someone (in the US) for me after surgery and let them know that I was doing great.

I brought my own favorite small pillow with me (almost sofa size). It was nice to have it while I was in the hospital and on the plane ride home.

9. As far as money someone suggested I bring about $30.00 to $35.00 in one's so that I could have them for tipping—they all accept US money in Mexicali. I tipped Ernesto $20.00 who picks you up and takes you to the hospital, takes you to the hotel, takes you back the hospital for surgery and then back to the San Diego airport. Someone also suggested that Ernesto does massages and massage oil or cream would be a nice gift for him—I guess he doesn’t always have the cream or oils—I gave him some the last time I was there and he loved it. He takes such good care of everyone and I tipped him at the end when he took me back to the airport to go home. I also tipped the hotel guys for taking my bag to my room, and when I had dinner that night at the hotel. I would also bring along a small gift for 4 or 5 nurses or give them a little cash—I understand they really don’t make a lot of money and they might appreciate the cash as a gift. I would suggest that you take enough money or Credit Card or Debit card to purchase the medication that you will need after the surgery. There is a pharmacy about 1/2 block from the hotel--anyone at the hospital will tell you where it is. The Nexium that they suggest you take after surgery for acid reflux for about 3 months cost a lot less —don’t forget they will negotiate over the price of medication in Mexico –even when it is at a pharmacy-they will give a price and then ask them “if I buy 4 boxes will you sell it to me for—ask for a lower price. This medication costs a lot less in Mexicali than in the US—so don’t forget to buy it while you are there.

10. Do not take any jewelry with you or wear any. All I took was my watch. Leave ALL other jewelry at home.

11. Be prepared that Ernesto will be late picking you up--find a place to sit down in the baggage area where they said he would pick you up. Make sure you can see people walking in that area and he will come walking down through there with your name on a sign holding it up. He will have you back at the airport on your return trip home in plenty of time to catch your plane ride home.

12. Bring a camera along to take some pictures of yourself in the “before stage†and maybe a group picture of the other people who are going to have the surgery the same day you do. I have kept in contact with them. You will be so glad you have done this. Take lots of pictures. People really do enjoy seeing the pictures if they are considering doing this surgery.

13. Don’t forget the personal things like toothbrush, shampoo, soap that you may want to use in the shower, a razor, cream rinse for you hair—maybe a hair curler and hair dryer if you want. I don’t know if you want to bring make-up—I did, because I wanted to look ok going home on the plane. Yes, we used their water to take a shower—it is ok for showers… they do give you bottled water to drink.

14. I brought along a book I wanted to read along with my Ipod, so I could listen to my own music. You may or may not get a lot of reading done because you might want to take some nice naps too. Getting up and walking around is good for you and it makes you feel a lot better too.

15. Bring along some chap stick for your lips—they dry out and it is good to have something to put on your lips.

If anyone else can add anything please jump in here and help me out! I know you are worried about a few small things and I can tell you not to worry because we all have been where you are. Just keep posting to the web site-- anything you want to say or ask. We all understand and have been where you are right now. I wish you GREAT success and it will be a life changing event and in about 2 months you will be saying the same thing too.

Also adds that when they make you drink the vile stuff to make sure your new stomach has no leaks don’t for get to ask for chips of ice. It numbs your taste buds because they are so cold and you can drink their YUCK stuff. She did it and it worked great for her. I didn’t know about it and I wished I would have. I think they do this on the 3 day before you go home.

Suzanne

This is what someone else added to what I put on my list--you never can have too much help or information

I wore and underwire.....so I didn't get that message! I also brought a robe...for sure and maybe flip flops or slippers for doing lots of walking after the surgery. They give you those hospital gowns, but the day after the surgery, I was in my own pjs that were button down the front and elastic band capris...something easy to slip in and out of. Suzanne says-- I put my on PJ’s on after the surgery when I got up to go to the bathroom.

I would definitely take a comfy pillow for on the plane ride too. Just don't over pack! You will need very few things....one outfit for the day you arrive and one for when you leave and just the PJ’s for comfort.

You may need to have something on the plane ride....maybe some tea from Starbucks or get some hot water and add some chicken broth to the hot water--(take Chicken broth packets from Top Ramen Noodles works great for the Chicken broth. You most likely won't be hungry at all....but just in case......a clear broth with water works.

I realized that most of the stuff that I brought, I didn't even need.....so pack light! You will mostly be walking the halls of the hospital!

The best of luck to you! You will do great!

In a message dated 1/11/2010 5:52:01 P.M. Pacific Standard Time, babys_moogirl2000@... writes:

Hi Suzanne,

Please post the list. Both my father and I will be having the surgery together on the same day. We are meeting with Dr. A for a consultation on the 23rd.

I can't wait to start this journey, I know this is the best choice for both of us to get our lives healthier and happier!

From: "SuzanneSHaol" <SuzanneSHaol> Sent: Mon, January 11, 2010 10:55:04 AMSubject: Re: New here!

Hi Katya,

Not too many of us like Isopure--we call it ISOPUKE. It does not taste good. The 1st 10 days needs to be clear liquids, so you need to find a protein that you can mix with water. I know that a lot of people have different proteins that have tried. www.unjury.com was where I got some protein that was chicken broth that I tried and used for a while. But to be honest with you the 1st 10 days I wasn't really so concerned about the protein thing. That might not be good for everyone, but I waited until I got to the next 10 days and used my Premier Protein Drink that I love and just used it. Find something you like, because if it taste bad you don't want to be forced to deal with it when you get home. For me the 10 days chicken broth what great for me. I had a difficult time swallowing any medication. I would suggest a liquid vitamin or a good adult chewable vitamin is what you need. I don't think there is one person who has a regret at all. I am not sure what you are saying when you say complications. My potassium was low, but I knew it was low before I had the surgery. You need to have a doctor that you can check with when you get home. You need to make sure they do your blood work so that you know you are doing ok.

You asked how do you stop losing weight. Well, how did you gain weight--eating more calories? So here is my suggestion. Eat a little more and exercise a little less. You will find your set point and it will be pretty easy to maintain. If you are losing and don't want to increase the amount of calories you are eating and don't exercise so much. Seems pretty simple to me. Calories in and calories out.

I hope that helps. It is always good to come back and ask any question that you might have. I have a list of things to take with you to Mexico if you would like I will post it for you. Just let me know.

Suzanne

225 125 125

Start Now Goal

Sleeved 10/21/08

In a message dated 1/10/2010 6:41:23 P.M. Pacific Standard Time, kspuhlerhotmail (DOT) com writes:

Hi everyone! I am scheduled to have my sleeve with Dr. Aceves on the 23rd of January. I have been reading your posts for weeks now and wanted to thank you for all of the great information and support you've been providing. Since I scheduled my surgery a bunch of questions started to pop up, and hopefully I'll be able to have them answered here. For the clear liquids phase of the post op diet, do you buy the ISOPURE powder and mix it in water? What flavors are good? It also says I need to take the multivitamin, should I get that in liquid form? Or do I start the vitamins after the liquid phase is over? Anyone had any regrets/complicatio ns with the sleeve? Also, after you get to your goal, how do you stop the weight loss? I don't want to end up looking sick if I lose too much. I "only" need to lose 60-70 lbs. Sorry, so many questions! Thanks in advance for all of your help!Katya

[Guest guest]

Suzanne,Thanks for the great list and tips. Both my dad and I are looking forward to this, and the support of this site really assured us Dr. A is in fact the best there is. I haven been to Mexicali many times, as my husband was born and raised there so he knows the ins and outs.I will definately take pics of the both of us. I am considering doing an online blog of my journey.Thanks again...From: "SuzanneSH@..." <SuzanneSH@...> Sent: Mon, January 11, 2010 6:12:50 PMSubject: Re: New here!

Hi Katya,

That is wonderful that both you and your Dad are going to do this together. Please keep us informed as how you are doing. Take lots of before pictures of the two of you. We are looking forward to going on your journey with you. I get so excited when I see people on this journey of saving their life along with someone in their family joining them too. Here is my list I always have it saved on my computer and I am happy to post it for anyone that is going. Take care and I will be thinking about you.

Let’s see if I can remember what are important things to bring with you. 1. Gas-X because you will have gas after the surgery and they don't have Gas-X in Mexico. They (the nurses and doctors) will ask you are you passing gas? It is nice to have this on the plane ride home too after the surgery. I bought a box (of 36 tabs) of Gas-X (thin strips) that you just put the strip in your mouth. It tastes good and it is easy to take--no water required—nothing difficult to swallow either. 2. A comfortable bra & panties--nothing very tight (cotton is nice—what ever you like to wear) to wear home on the plane or if you want to wear these items in the hospital. Everyone was pretty relaxed with what they slept in or wore around the hospital. I didn't bring a robe at all--Just T-shirts and comfortable pants. Maybe a sweatshirt because the air conditioner makes it cool sometimes and then there are times when the air conditioner isn’t working that well. Bring some extra T-shirts in case you spill on yourself. My IV came out and I got blood on one of my T-shirts. I just washed it out in the sink and hung it up in the shower to dry. 3. Drawstring pants or pants with elastic waist—nothing tight around the middle section. I had some Nike walking pants and they were very comfortable—or short, or pants you would wear to relax in. I also had some that I wore to sleep in, walk around the hospital in and wore them home on the plane too (a pair for each day you are going to be away from home). Sweatpants work great too. I was there in Oct and so the air conditioning was going and sometimes it was cool at night when I was sleeping--so I brought some warm socks along too. But in some rooms the air conditioning wasn't working so well in their rooms and they were warmer than some of us were. If it is too warm or too cold tell one of the nurses they will help you with anything you need. They are excellent when you need something—don’t be afraid to ask. 4. A heating pad--I was so glad I had mine (someone had suggested I bring one) because it felt good on my stomach area. When my feet were cold at night I used my heating pad on my feet. Also when I was there with a friend for her surgery in April 2009 I found out at the nurse’s stations they also had heating pads—so if you don’t want to bring your own use their’s. 5. Some kind of slip on shoe for the plane ride home and something to wear in the hospital (I had some flip flops for the hospital and some clogs for the plane ride home. Flip flops didn't take up a lot of room in your suitcase. I also carried on the plane my tote bag carrying some things like, meds, change of underwear—in case my suitcase got lost, a snack so I could eat something after the tests that first day you arrive—because they will tell you not to eat a few hours before you get to Mexicali because of the tests you are going to be having upon arrival at the hospital in Mexicali. Sometimes you have to wait for everyone to have their test before they take you to the hotel and your are soooooooo hungry because you haven’t eaten anything all day long because most of us are flying into San Diego, so bring a snack that you can eat after your tests while waiting to go to the hotel. I brought along some packages of trail mix—bring what you like. 6. Only one (1) small or medium sized suitcase with wheels is really great because you will have to deal with your own suitcase at the airport (coming and going). I also brought along my laptop computer so I could stay in touch with my friends and family—I carried that on the plane too—don’t put it in a suitcase—too much stuff has been stolen out of suitcases. 7. Please be aware if you use your cell phone in Mexicali they will charge you roaming fees to CALL OUT. For me if people called me from the US to Mexicali and they were calling my Cell Phone there were NO ROAMING charges because they called me from the US. Most all cell phones work in Mexicali; I think they said Cricket was the only r that they had problems with. I didn't have anyone come with me for the surgery, and they were so nice as to call someone (in the US) for me after surgery and let them know that I was doing great.

I brought my own favorite small pillow with me (almost sofa size). It was nice to have it while I was in the hospital and on the plane ride home. 9. As far as money someone suggested I bring about $30.00 to $35.00 in one's so that I could have them for tipping—they all accept US money in Mexicali. I tipped Ernesto $20.00 who picks you up and takes you to the hospital, takes you to the hotel, takes you back the hospital for surgery and then back to the San Diego airport. Someone also suggested that Ernesto does massages and massage oil or cream would be a nice gift for him—I guess he doesn’t always have the cream or oils—I gave him some the last time I was there and he loved it. He takes such good care of everyone and I tipped him at the end when he took me back to the airport to go home. I also tipped the hotel guys for taking my bag to my room, and when I had dinner that night at the hotel. I would also bring along a small gift for 4 or 5 nurses or give them a little cash—I understand they really don’t make a lot of money and they might appreciate the cash as a gift. I would suggest that you take enough money or Credit Card or Debit card to purchase the medication that you will need after the surgery. There is a pharmacy about 1/2 block from the hotel--anyone at the hospital will tell you where it is. The Nexium that they suggest you take after surgery for acid reflux for about 3 months cost a lot less —don’t forget they will negotiate over the price of medication in Mexico –even when it is at a pharmacy-they will give a price and then ask them “if I buy 4 boxes will you sell it to me for—ask for a lower price. This medication costs a lot less in Mexicali than in the US—so don’t forget to buy it while you are there. 10. Do not take any jewelry with you or wear any. All I took was my watch. Leave ALL other jewelry at home. 11. Be prepared that Ernesto will be late picking you up--find a place to sit down in the baggage area where they said he would pick you up. Make sure you can see people walking in that area and he will come walking down through there with your name on a sign holding it up. He will have you back at the airport on your return trip home in plenty of time to catch your plane ride home. 12. Bring a camera along to take some pictures of yourself in the “before stage†and maybe a group picture of the other people who are going to have the surgery the same day you do. I have kept in contact with them. You will be so glad you have done this. Take lots of pictures. People really do enjoy seeing the pictures if they are considering doing this surgery. 13. Don’t forget the personal things like toothbrush, shampoo, soap that you may want to use in the shower, a razor, cream rinse for you hair—maybe a hair curler and hair dryer if you want. I don’t know if you want to bring make-up—I did, because I wanted to look ok going home on the plane. Yes, we used their water to take a shower—it is ok for showers… they do give you bottled water to drink. 14. I brought along a book I wanted to read along with my Ipod, so I could listen to my own music. You may or may not get a lot of reading done because you might want to take some nice naps too. Getting up and walking around is good for you and it makes you feel a lot better too. 15. Bring along some chap stick for your lips—they dry out and it is good to have something to put on your lips. If anyone else can add anything please jump in here and help me out! I know you are worried about a few small things and I can tell you not to worry because we all have been where you are. Just keep posting to the web site-- anything you want to say or ask. We all understand and have been where you are right now. I wish you GREAT success and it will be a life changing event and in about 2 months you will be saying the same thing too. Also adds that when they make you drink the vile stuff to make sure your new stomach has no leaks don’t for get to ask for chips of ice. It numbs your taste buds because they are so cold and you can drink their YUCK stuff. She did it and it worked great for her. I didn’t know about it and I wished I would have. I think they do this on the 3 day before you go home. Suzanne This is what someone else added to what I put on my list--you never can have too much help or information I wore and underwire... ..so I didn't get that message! I also brought a robe...for sure and maybe flip flops or slippers for doing lots of walking after the surgery. They give you those hospital gowns, but the day after the surgery, I was in my own pjs that were button down the front and elastic band capris...something easy to slip in and out of. Suzanne says-- I put my on PJ’s on after the surgery when I got up to go to the bathroom. I would definitely take a comfy pillow for on the plane ride too. Just don't over pack! You will need very few things....one outfit for the day you arrive and one for when you leave and just the PJ’s for comfort. You may need to have something on the plane ride....maybe some tea from Starbucks or get some hot water and add some chicken broth to the hot water--(take Chicken broth packets from Top Ramen Noodles works great for the Chicken broth. You most likely won't be hungry at all....but just in case......a clear broth with water works. I realized that most of the stuff that I brought, I didn't even need.....so pack light! You will mostly be walking the halls of the hospital! The best of luck to you! You will do great!

In a message dated 1/11/2010 5:52:01 P.M. Pacific Standard Time, babys_moogirl2000 writes:

Hi Suzanne,

Please post the list. Both my father and I will be having the surgery together on the same day. We are meeting with Dr. A for a consultation on the 23rd.

I can't wait to start this journey, I know this is the best choice for both of us to get our lives healthier and happier!

From: "SuzanneSHaol (DOT) com" <SuzanneSHaol (DOT) com> @groups. comSent: Mon, January 11, 2010 10:55:04 AMSubject: Re: New here!

Hi Katya,

Not too many of us like Isopure--we call it ISOPUKE. It does not taste good. The 1st 10 days needs to be clear liquids, so you need to find a protein that you can mix with water. I know that a lot of people have different proteins that have tried. www.unjury.com was where I got some protein that was chicken broth that I tried and used for a while. But to be honest with you the 1st 10 days I wasn't really so concerned about the protein thing. That might not be good for everyone, but I waited until I got to the next 10 days and used my Premier Protein Drink that I love and just used it. Find something you like, because if it taste bad you don't want to be forced to deal with it when you get home. For me the 10 days chicken broth what great for me. I had a difficult time swallowing any medication. I would suggest a liquid vitamin or a good adult chewable vitamin is what you need. I don't think there is one person who has a regret at all. I am not sure what you are saying when you say complications. My potassium was low, but I knew it was low before I had the surgery. You need to have a doctor that you can check with when you get home. You need to make sure they do your blood work so that you know you are doing ok.

You asked how do you stop losing weight. Well, how did you gain weight--eating more calories? So here is my suggestion. Eat a little more and exercise a little less. You will find your set point and it will be pretty easy to maintain. If you are losing and don't want to increase the amount of calories you are eating and don't exercise so much. Seems pretty simple to me. Calories in and calories out.

I hope that helps. It is always good to come back and ask any question that you might have. I have a list of things to take with you to Mexico if you would like I will post it for you. Just let me know.

Suzanne

225 125 125

Start Now Goal

Sleeved 10/21/08

In a message dated 1/10/2010 6:41:23 P.M. Pacific Standard Time, kspuhlerhotmail (DOT) com writes:

Hi everyone! I am scheduled to have my sleeve with Dr. Aceves on the 23rd of January. I have been reading your posts for weeks now and wanted to thank you for all of the great information and support you've been providing. Since I scheduled my surgery a bunch of questions started to pop up, and hopefully I'll be able to have them answered here. For the clear liquids phase of the post op diet, do you buy the ISOPURE powder and mix it in water? What flavors are good? It also says I need to take the multivitamin, should I get that in liquid form? Or do I start the vitamins after the liquid phase is over? Anyone had any regrets/complicatio ns with the sleeve? Also, after you get to your goal, how do you stop the weight loss? I don't want to end up looking sick if I lose too much. I "only" need to lose 60-70 lbs. Sorry, so many questions! Thanks in advance for all of your help!Katya

[Guest guest]

Suzanne, thank you so much for all of that great info! You are always so helpful

and thorough with your posts! I'm excited for my upcoming surgery and can't wait

to share my experience with everyone here! Thanks again and take care!

Katya

>

> Hi Suzanne,

>

> Please post the list.  Both my father and I will be having the surgery

together on the same day.  We are meeting with Dr. A for a consultation on the

23rd.

>

> I can't wait to start this journey, I know this is the best choice for both of

us to get our lives healthier and happier!

>

>

>

>

> ________________________________

> From: " SuzanneSH@... " <SuzanneSH@...>

>

> Sent: Mon, January 11, 2010 10:55:04 AM

> Subject: Re: New here!

>

>  

> Hi Katya,

>

> Not too many of us like Isopure--we call it ISOPUKE.  It does not taste

good.  The 1st 10 days needs to be clear liquids, so you need to find a protein

that you can mix with water.  I know that a lot of people have

different proteins that have tried.  www.unjury.com was where I got some

protein that was chicken broth that I tried and used for a while.  But to be

honest with you the 1st 10 days I wasn't really so concerned about the protein

thing.  That might not be good for everyone, but I waited until I got to the

next 10 days and used my Premier Protein Drink that I love and just used it. 

Find something you like, because if it taste bad you don't want to be forced to

deal with it when you get home. For me the 10 days chicken broth what great for

me.  I had a difficult time swallowing any medication.  I would suggest a

liquid vitamin or a good adult chewable vitamin is what you need. I don't think

there is one person who has a regret at

> all.  I am not sure what you are saying when you say complications.  My

potassium was low, but I knew it was low before I had the surgery.  You need to

have a doctor that you can check with when you get home.  You need to make sure

they do your blood work so that you know you are doing ok. 

>

> You asked how do you stop losing weight.  Well, how did you gain

weight--eating more calories?  So here is my suggestion.  Eat a little more

and exercise a little less.  You will find your set point and it will be pretty

easy to maintain.  If you are losing and don't want to increase the amount of

calories you are eating and don't exercise so much.  Seems pretty simple to

me.  Calories in and calories out. 

>

> I hope that helps.  It is always good to come back and ask any question that

you might have.  I have a list of things to take with you to Mexico if you

would like I will post it for you.  Just let me know.

>

> Suzanne

>

> 225     125     125

> Start    Now    Goal

> Sleeved 10/21/08

>

> In a message dated 1/10/2010 6:41:23 P.M. Pacific Standard Time,

kspuhlerhotmail (DOT) com writes:

>  

> >Hi everyone! I am scheduled to have my sleeve with Dr. Aceves on the 23rd of

January. I have been reading your posts for weeks now and wanted to thank you

for all of the great information and support you've been providing. Since I

scheduled my surgery a bunch of questions started to pop up, and hopefully I'll

be able to have them answered here. For the clear liquids phase of the post op

diet, do you buy the ISOPURE powder and mix it in water? What flavors are good?

It also says I need to take the multivitamin, should I get that in liquid form?

Or do I start the vitamins after the liquid phase is over? Anyone had any

regrets/complicatio ns with the sleeve? Also, after you get to your goal, how do

you stop the weight loss? I don't want to end up looking sick if I lose too

much. I " only " need to lose 60-70 lbs. Sorry, so many questions! Thanks in

advance for all of your help!

> >

> >Katya

> >

> >

>

[Guest guest]

Katya,

You are more than welcome. One day you will be the one on here helping new people. Just remember this is a support group and that is what we are on here for. To help each other.

Suzanne

In a message dated 1/13/2010 7:13:10 A.M. Pacific Standard Time, kspuhler@... writes:

Suzanne, thank you so much for all of that great info! You are always so helpful and thorough with your posts! I'm excited for my upcoming surgery and can't wait to share my experience with everyone here! Thanks again and take care!Katya>> Hi Suzanne,> > Please post the list. Both my father and I will be having the surgery together on the same day. We are meeting with Dr. A for a consultation on the 23rd.> > I can't wait to start this journey, I know this is the best choice for both of us to get our lives healthier and happier!> > > > > ________________________________> From: "SuzanneSH@..." <SuzanneSH@...>> > Sent: Mon, January 11, 2010 10:55:04 AM> Subject: Re: New here!> >  > Hi Katya,> > Not too many of us like Isopure--we call it ISOPUKE. It does not taste good. The 1st 10 days needs to be clear liquids, so you need to find a protein that you can mix with water. I know that a lot of people have different proteins that have tried. www.unjury.com was where I got some protein that was chicken broth that I tried and used for a while. But to be honest with you the 1st 10 days I wasn't really so concerned about the protein thing. That might not be good for everyone, but I waited until I got to the next 10 days and used my Premier Protein Drink that I love and just used it. Find something you like, because if it taste bad you don't want to be forced to deal with it when you get home. For me the 10 days chicken broth what great for me. I had a difficult time swallowing any medication. I would suggest a liquid vitamin or a good adult chewable vitamin is what you need. I don't think there is one person who has a regret at> all. I am not sure what you are saying when you say complications. My potassium was low, but I knew it was low before I had the surgery. You need to have a doctor that you can check with when you get home. You need to make sure they do your blood work so that you know you are doing ok. > > You asked how do you stop losing weight. Well, how did you gain weight--eating more calories? So here is my suggestion. Eat a little more and exercise a little less. You will find your set point and it will be pretty easy to maintain. If you are losing and don't want to increase the amount of calories you are eating and don't exercise so much. Seems pretty simple to me. Calories in and calories out. > > I hope that helps. It is always good to come back and ask any question that you might have. I have a list of things to take with you to Mexico if you would like I will post it for you. Just let me know.> > Suzanne> > 225    125    125> Start   Now   Goal> Sleeved 10/21/08> > In a message dated 1/10/2010 6:41:23 P.M. Pacific Standard Time, kspuhlerhotmail (DOT) com writes:>  > >Hi everyone! I am scheduled to have my sleeve with Dr. Aceves on the 23rd of January. I have been reading your posts for weeks now and wanted to thank you for all of the great information and support you've been providing. Since I scheduled my surgery a bunch of questions started to pop up, and hopefully I'll be able to have them answered here. For the clear liquids phase of the post op diet, do you buy the ISOPURE powder and mix it in water? What flavors are good? It also says I need to take the multivitamin, should I get that in liquid form? Or do I start the vitamins after the liquid phase is over? Anyone had any regrets/complicatio ns with the sleeve? Also, after you get to your goal, how do you stop the weight loss? I don't want to end up looking sick if I lose too much. I "only" need to lose 60-70 lbs. Sorry, so many questions! Thanks in advance for all of your help!> >> >Katya> >> >>

[Guest guest]

Hey Bipley,

You were my "to go person" and still are for some things. You had all the answers and support I always needed. We all count on you to tell it like it is. Never stop being the person you are--you are fabulous!

Suzanne

PS I am celebrating today--I have LOST 100 pounds offically~~~!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

In a message dated 1/13/2010 9:21:52 A.M. Pacific Standard Time, Bipley@... writes:

Katya...You will soon see that as time progresses the newbies become the old timers and you will soon be able to help the newbies that need information, help in researching surgeons and surgery types.. it's a camaraderie that you will soon learn.You will fill Suzanne's shoes in short time, you'll see.

On Tue, Jan 12, 2010 at 10:09 PM, kspuhler2000 <kspuhlerhotmail> wrote:

Suzanne, thank you so much for all of that great info! You are always so helpful and thorough with your posts! I'm excited for my upcoming surgery and can't wait to share my experience with everyone here! Thanks again and take care!Katya

[Guest guest]

Katya...You will soon see that as time progresses the newbies become the old timers and you will soon be able to help the newbies that need information, help in researching surgeons and surgery types.. it's a camaraderie that you will soon learn.

You will fill Suzanne's shoes in short time, you'll see.On Tue, Jan 12, 2010 at 10:09 PM, kspuhler2000 <kspuhler@...> wrote:

 

Suzanne, thank you so much for all of that great info! You are always so helpful and thorough with your posts! I'm excited for my upcoming surgery and can't wait to share my experience with everyone here! Thanks again and take care!

Katya

[Guest guest]

This group is the BEST! It has helped me understand the reality of the journey I am about to embark on. My dad and I are scheduled for 2/19 to be sleeved :-) I can't wait, this is going to save my life and his too.

Suzanne . . . that is awesome!!! CONGRATULATIONS on the 100 pound mark!

From: "SuzanneSH@..." <SuzanneSH@...> Sent: Wed, January 13, 2010 10:16:43 AMSubject: Re: New here!

Hey Bipley,

You were my "to go person" and still are for some things. You had all the answers and support I always needed. We all count on you to tell it like it is. Never stop being the person you are--you are fabulous!

Suzanne

PS I am celebrating today--I have LOST 100 pounds offically~~~ !!!!!!!!! !!!!!

In a message dated 1/13/2010 9:21:52 A.M. Pacific Standard Time, Bipleygmail (DOT) com writes:

Katya...You will soon see that as time progresses the newbies become the old timers and you will soon be able to help the newbies that need information, help in researching surgeons and surgery types.. it's a camaraderie that you will soon learn.You will fill Suzanne's shoes in short time, you'll see.

On Tue, Jan 12, 2010 at 10:09 PM, kspuhler2000 <kspuhlerhotmail (DOT) com> wrote:

Suzanne, thank you so much for all of that great info! You are always so helpful and thorough with your posts! I'm excited for my upcoming surgery and can't wait to share my experience with everyone here! Thanks again and take care!Katya

[Guest guest]

I agree with you. What a great thing to be able to do this with your Dad. And it is going to save your life, and you are going to have such a different life, you can't imagine how it is going to change. We will be there every step of the way with you.

Hugs,

Suzanne

In a message dated 1/13/2010 5:00:32 P.M. Pacific Standard Time, babys_moogirl2000@... writes:

This group is the BEST! It has helped me understand the reality of the journey I am about to embark on. My dad and I are scheduled for 2/19 to be sleeved :-) I can't wait, this is going to save my life and his too.

Suzanne . . . that is awesome!!! CONGRATULATIONS on the 100 pound mark!

From: "SuzanneSHaol" <SuzanneSHaol> Sent: Wed, January 13, 2010 10:16:43 AMSubject: Re: New here!

Hey Bipley,

You were my "to go person" and still are for some things. You had all the answers and support I always needed. We all count on you to tell it like it is. Never stop being the person you are--you are fabulous!

Suzanne

PS I am celebrating today--I have LOST 100 pounds offically~~~ !!!!!!!!! !!!!!

In a message dated 1/13/2010 9:21:52 A.M. Pacific Standard Time, Bipleygmail (DOT) com writes:

Katya...You will soon see that as time progresses the newbies become the old timers and you will soon be able to help the newbies that need information, help in researching surgeons and surgery types.. it's a camaraderie that you will soon learn.You will fill Suzanne's shoes in short time, you'll see.

On Tue, Jan 12, 2010 at 10:09 PM, kspuhler2000 <kspuhlerhotmail (DOT) com> wrote:

Suzanne, thank you so much for all of that great info! You are always so helpful and thorough with your posts! I'm excited for my upcoming surgery and can't wait to share my experience with everyone here! Thanks again and take care!Katya

[Guest guest]

SUZANNE!!!!!!!!!!!! YEA YEA YEA!!!!! 100lbs is AMAZING!! Great job! CyrenaFrom: "SuzanneSH@..." <SuzanneSH@...> Sent: Wed, January 13, 2010 12:16:43 PMSubject: Re: New here!

Hey Bipley,

You were my "to go person" and still are for some things. You had all the answers and support I always needed. We all count on you to tell it like it is. Never stop being the person you are--you are fabulous!

Suzanne

PS I am celebrating today--I have LOST 100 pounds offically~

[Guest guest]

WAY TO GO !!! 100 lbs. Did you ever think it possible? Marie Kindness is the language the blind can see and the deaf can hear. - Mark Twain

From: Cyrena Weeks <cyrenaweeks@...> Sent: Wed, January 13, 2010 7:24:09 PMSubject: Re: New here!

SUZANNE!!!!! !!!!!!! YEA YEA YEA!!!!! 100lbs is AMAZING!! Great job!

Cyrena

From: "SuzanneSHaol (DOT) com" <SuzanneSHaol (DOT) com> @groups. comSent: Wed, January 13, 2010 12:16:43 PMSubject: Re: New here!

Hey Bipley,

You were my "to go person" and still are for some things. You had all the answers and support I always needed. We all count on you to tell it like it is. Never stop being the person you are--you are fabulous!

Suzanne

PS I am celebrating today--I have LOST 100 pounds offically~

[Guest guest]

Hi Sheila,

Many thanks for all the information. I shall have to make copious notes due to

brain fog! The trouble is that doctors don't like being told what they should

be doing but I have now come to the conclusion that I will have to take

responsibility for my own health.

I am seeing my GP tomorrow morning for a swab test and to take in my urine

sample as I keep having bouts of cystitis type symptoms. I think I shall ask

about having a different medication such as Natur-Throid which I assume we can

have in the UK. What do you think?

I too was amazed when suddenly I became normal as I had thought that one was

underactive for life. However, one doesn't question doctors and their blood

tests. As I said, I now believe that my test went haywire due to too much

iodine but then of course it continued to be normal which does seem odd.

How much thyroxine do you think I should be on going by my results? I was

previously on 100 mg.

I do wonder about my daughter and whether she has hyperthyroidism because if we

cannot go by the test results what chance do we stand of being diagnosed

correctly? Joint pain/weight loss - RA or hyperthyroidism? They say it is RA

but that she doesn't follow the normal course of the disease. What do they do?

Try to give her toxic drugs such as Methrotrexate! It is like banging your head

against a brick wall at times.

Once again many thanks.

Margaret

>

> Hello Margaret - and welcome to our forum where I hope you get the help and

> support you need. I am not sure about me being " a mine of information " but I

> will try to help.

[Edit Abbrev Mod]

[Guest guest]

Hi Marie,

No Honesty I had been overweight for a long time and done the yo yo thing--lose it gain it, lose it gain it for so many years, it was hard to believe that it would be this easy. And the best part is that I know I will maintain it. Lets say at first I didn't think it would be that easy to do, then as time went on I knew without a doubt that I could lose 100 pounds and keep it off. Thanks for the kind words and questions. That is how we all learn, just ask questions.

Suzanne

In a message dated 1/14/2010 12:27:11 P.M. Pacific Standard Time, apanther97@... writes:

WAY TO GO !!! 100 lbs. Did you ever think it possible? Marie Kindness is the language the blind can see and the deaf can hear. - Mark Twain

From: Cyrena Weeks <cyrenaweeks > Sent: Wed, January 13, 2010 7:24:09 PMSubject: Re: New here!

SUZANNE!!!!! !!!!!!! YEA YEA YEA!!!!! 100lbs is AMAZING!! Great job!

Cyrena

From: "SuzanneSHaol (DOT) com" <SuzanneSHaol (DOT) com> @groups. comSent: Wed, January 13, 2010 12:16:43 PMSubject: Re: New here!

Hey Bipley,

You were my "to go person" and still are for some things. You had all the answers and support I always needed. We all count on you to tell it like it is. Never stop being the person you are--you are fabulous!

Suzanne

PS I am celebrating today--I have LOST 100 pounds offically~

[Guest guest]

Hi Margaret, The problem is the tests are given more weight than the symptoms, also a healthy thyroid puts out about 5 hormones of which the levothyroxine is only one. The NHS guidelines say only levothyroxine should be prescribed which is a reasonable first action, but TSh is often allowed tto remain too high- the adverage healthy person has a TSH of around 1.0 so your nearly 4 is far too high and the FT4 is very close to the bottom of the range, so no wonder you don't feel well.It is also important to have enough zinc and selenium as both are vital to thyroid function. low iron can also give similar simptoms. Have a read of the files area of the website as there is much useful there especially the file- 'first visit to an endocrinologist'. If you thyroid is not producing enough hormone then replacing the missing hormone is essential, anuturopath will help with diet and peripheral things ,but if you need thyroid hormones you need thyroid hormones. > thyroid treatment > From: margaretp09@...> Date: Wed, 13 Jan 2010 14:50:39 +0000> Subject: New here!> .> > My plan B would be a naturopath route. My daughter with RA did very well with diet elimination, probiotics, detoxing, etc. > > I already take Vitamin D and a multivitamin. I have read that blood tests on Hypo patients show a lack of Vit D.> > > I do hope I have not bored you to death reading this!> > > Regards,> > Margaret> > > > > ------------------------------------> > TPA is not medically qualified. Consult with a qualified medical practitioner before changing medication.> >

[Guest guest]

Margaret - I just found this message I wrote to

you in my Draft Box - not sure whether it was sent or not.

The MHRA has written that NHS doctors can

prescribe Armour Thyroid, Nature Throid, Westhroid or rfa (Canadian) 'Thyroid'.

However, none of these are licensed drugs in the UK and doctors are reluctant

to prescribe unlicensed medicines because if anything goes wrong, their medical

insurance doesn't cover them. However, having said that, more and more doctors

are coming to realise that their patients do better with a T3 containing

product. As you are only taking 25 mcgs which would do absolutely nothing for you,

I would wait and see whether, on increasing the dose, you start to lose your

symptoms. The average dose is between 125 and 150 mcgs, some taking doses as

high as 300mcgs. If you still don't lose your symptoms, then is the time to ask

for some T3 to be added.

The usual way to increase the dose of thyroxine

is by 25mcgs every 6 weeks or so, but doctors don't usually do blood tests

until you have been taking it for 2 to 3 months. Again, the blood tests don't

tell the true facts regarding what is actually happening and doctors should be

treating you according to your symptoms.

Luv - Sheila

I am seeing my GP tomorrow morning for a swab test and to take in my urine sample

as I keep having bouts of cystitis type symptoms. I think I shall ask about

having a different medication such as Natur-Throid which I assume we can have

in the UK. What do you think?

I too was amazed when suddenly I became normal as I had thought that one was

underactive for life. However, one doesn't question doctors and their blood

tests. As I said, I now believe that my test went haywire due to too much

iodine but then of course it continued to be normal which does seem odd.

How much thyroxine do you think I should be on going by my results? I was

previously on 100 mg.

I do wonder about my daughter and whether she has hyperthyroidism because if we

cannot go by the test results what chance do we stand of being diagnosed

correctly? Joint pain/weight loss - RA or hyperthyroidism? They say it is RA

but that she doesn't follow the normal course of the disease. What do they do?

Try to give her toxic drugs such as Methrotrexate! It is like banging your head

against a brick wall at times.

Once again many thanks.

Margaret

[Guest guest]

Hi Betsy!

No one wants to have surgery (except I guess some freaky mentally-ill

types). So, I¹d guess I¹d say that everyone here probably had surgery when

the pain of walking became enough of a problem that we were willing to go

through what is certainly an ordeal so that we could get well.

This is elective surgery. It is not directly life-saving or essential. So

you have it when first, the doctors think you¹re a good candidate (ie, your

knees are bad enough to justify a radical procedure, and you¹re otherwise in

good enough shape to withstand the surgery) and, second, you get tired of

having your knees hurt. That¹s certainly what happened to me. I had all

the cortisone and arthroscopic surgery and simvisc and all that jazz, and to

be blunt, none of them worked very well, and one fine day the light dawned:

I was going to be in pain every time I took a step unless I had my knee

replaced. That¹s the long and the short of it.

As we have reflected here, it¹s pretty hard to lose weight when you¹re

immobilized, though some people here have some good ideas on that score.

If you really are obese and not just calling yourself names, you might need

a multi-doctor approach: someone to deal with the weight issue, working with

an orthopedic surgeon and the physical therapists to bring out a good result

overall.

I¹m not going to lie to you. Knee replacement surgery is major surgery,

it¹s a big deal, and you¹re going to feel miserable for a few weeks

afterwards. But listen girl, a few weeks. At our age (I¹m three years

older than you are) a few weeks, as in three, is no big deal in the grand

scheme of things.

Go to therapy, they¹re not going to torture you, they¹ll give you exercises

to strengthen your muscles. And work with a good doctor, and get this thing

fixed, life is too short to put up with it.

F

on 6/9/10 10:27 AM, Betsy at topgamma48@... wrote:

>

>

>

>

>

> Hi. I'm a 62 year old overweight, (as in obese) grandmother with 2 bad knees.

> I've seen an ortho surgeon and had cortisone shots, simvisc shots and now am

> having to do physical therapy because I had just given up and got depressed

> and just sat feeling sorry for myself. Now my muscles are weak and I have to

> have the pt just to get strength back in my joints before I can even consider

> surgery. I have never been one to handle pain very well so just thinking

> about surgery is really freaking me out. Have any of you put up with the pain

> to the point you had to have surgery or did you request it because of the

> pain.

>

> I keep saying I want to lose weight before surgery to make the recovery

> easier, but that's another sad story...it doesn't seem to be happening.

>

> Any info would be greatly appreciated. I'm even dreading going to physical

> therapy because I don't know what to expect and as I said, I don't handle pain

> very well.

>

> Thanks everyone and I'm learning so much here.

>

> Betsy from NC

>

>

[Guest guest]

Hi Betsy,

I can feel for you and understand the weight thing. I am also overweight

and have struggled for about 20 years with it. I lost 30 lbs. just before

surgery but put back about 20 of it since. Very depressing to think about

it. Just find something that works and stick with it. Your knees will

benefit from it.

Weightwatchers was the only thing that ever got me down to a decent weight

and I plan on going back next week. I regret ever stopping. I walked and

felt much better when I was 20 pounds less. I can only imagine what

losing the whole 50 pounds would do in regards to feeling better.

Physical therapy, if you have a good therapist, is a wonderful thing. You

will have a preview of your therapist before the surgery which will make you

decide if they are the right ones for you after the surgery and therapy

after surgery is a necessity to regain strength and mobility. Both

physical therapy and occupational therapy to help you handle your routine once

you are home. Don't be afraid of it, but also, if they are not helping you,

you can always request a different therapist.

As for the pain, I am so glad that I got the total hip replacement. Even

though I still revert to walking a little bit hunched over from the back

problems, the pain is gone!

I am rooting for you and send you good wishes from upstate New York to

North Carolina. Let us know how the therapy goes.

Reen

[Guest guest]

Thanks . I appreciated the encouragement and good advice. And I'm not

just calling myself names when I say I'm obese. I probably need to lose 75

or more pounds and I know I'd feel so much better if I did. After this PT

I'll have another discussion with my doctor and see what she has to say. I

know I am bone on bone and some steps are much more painful than others. I

had just given up and didn't go anywhere and all I did was sit in my chair

and was waited on like an invalid. The depression is the worst. But I'm

hoping getting out 3 days a week for the pt will get me motivated to get out

more often. I'm thankful for this list because I am learning so much and

I'll know much more going into the surgery now that I have all of you to

educate me. Thanks so much!

Re: New here!

Hi Betsy!

No one wants to have surgery (except I guess some freaky mentally-ill

types). So, I¹d guess I¹d say that everyone here probably had surgery when

the pain of walking became enough of a problem that we were willing to go

through what is certainly an ordeal so that we could get well.

This is elective surgery. It is not directly life-saving or essential. So

you have it when first, the doctors think you¹re a good candidate (ie, your

knees are bad enough to justify a radical procedure, and you¹re otherwise in

good enough shape to withstand the surgery) and, second, you get tired of

having your knees hurt. That¹s certainly what happened to me. I had all

the cortisone and arthroscopic surgery and simvisc and all that jazz, and to

be blunt, none of them worked very well, and one fine day the light dawned:

I was going to be in pain every time I took a step unless I had my knee

replaced. That¹s the long and the short of it.

As we have reflected here, it¹s pretty hard to lose weight when you¹re

immobilized, though some people here have some good ideas on that score.

If you really are obese and not just calling yourself names, you might need

a multi-doctor approach: someone to deal with the weight issue, working with

an orthopedic surgeon and the physical therapists to bring out a good result

overall.

I¹m not going to lie to you. Knee replacement surgery is major surgery,

it¹s a big deal, and you¹re going to feel miserable for a few weeks

afterwards. But listen girl, a few weeks. At our age (I¹m three years

older than you are) a few weeks, as in three, is no big deal in the grand

scheme of things.

Go to therapy, they¹re not going to torture you, they¹ll give you exercises

to strengthen your muscles. And work with a good doctor, and get this thing

fixed, life is too short to put up with it.

F

on 6/9/10 10:27 AM, Betsy at topgamma48@... wrote:

>

>

>

>

>

> Hi. I'm a 62 year old overweight, (as in obese) grandmother with 2 bad

> knees.

> I've seen an ortho surgeon and had cortisone shots, simvisc shots and now

> am

> having to do physical therapy because I had just given up and got

> depressed

> and just sat feeling sorry for myself. Now my muscles are weak and I have

> to

> have the pt just to get strength back in my joints before I can even

> consider

> surgery. I have never been one to handle pain very well so just thinking

> about surgery is really freaking me out. Have any of you put up with the

> pain

> to the point you had to have surgery or did you request it because of the

> pain.

>

> I keep saying I want to lose weight before surgery to make the recovery

> easier, but that's another sad story...it doesn't seem to be happening.

>

> Any info would be greatly appreciated. I'm even dreading going to

> physical

> therapy because I don't know what to expect and as I said, I don't handle

> pain

> very well.

>

> Thanks everyone and I'm learning so much here.

>

> Betsy from NC

>

>

[Guest guest]

Betsy,

I had to quit smoking and hoped to lose weight also before I could get my knees

replaced. (Both knees.) I didn't take any weight off but did stop smoking.

And then I had surgery. One at a time. I got the left one done in Nov 09 and

the right one done in March of 10. You can't be a bigger baby or be more afraid

of pain than I was.

I had never had any kind of surgery prior to this except for my 4 kids and I

used everything I could to have them. So I was really scared. I am no young

chick. I was 69 when I started and 70 by the time I got done with surgery.

I couldn't walk across the street because I was afraid I wouldn't be able to

walk home again before surgery.

Now for the first time I have walked to do my shopping at Sam's Club. (That is

a big store.) I wasn't all that nimble and just had to suck it up and get to

exercise after my surgery. I still get tired when I walk to far, but at least I

can walk far!!

Go for it. I am going to lose weight as I walk more and more and do more

stationary biking.

Good luck and just make up your mind and walk toward it a day at a time. It was

all I could do.

Hugs,

Donna R

New here!

Hi. I'm a 62 year old overweight, (as in obese) grandmother with 2 bad knees.

I've seen an ortho surgeon and had cortisone shots, simvisc shots and now am

having to do physical therapy because I had just given up and got depressed and

just sat feeling sorry for myself. Now my muscles are weak and I have to have

the pt just to get strength back in my joints before I can even consider

surgery. I have never been one to handle pain very well so just thinking about

surgery is really freaking me out. Have any of you put up with the pain to the

point you had to have surgery or did you request it because of the pain.

I keep saying I want to lose weight before surgery to make the recovery easier,

but that's another sad story...it doesn't seem to be happening.

Any info would be greatly appreciated. I'm even dreading going to physical

therapy because I don't know what to expect and as I said, I don't handle pain

very well.

Thanks everyone and I'm learning so much here.

Betsy from NC

[Guest guest]

Donna, that is really inspiring. Thank you!

On 6/10/10 9:05 PM, " Donna Rae " <rae900@...> wrote:

>

> Betsy,

>

> I had to quit smoking and hoped to lose weight also before I could get my

> knees replaced. (Both knees.) I didn't take any weight off but did stop

> smoking. And then I had surgery. One at a time. I got the left one done in

> Nov 09 and the right one done in March of 10. You can't be a bigger baby or

> be more afraid of pain than I was.

>

> I had never had any kind of surgery prior to this except for my 4 kids and I

> used everything I could to have them. So I was really scared. I am no young

> chick. I was 69 when I started and 70 by the time I got done with surgery.

>

> I couldn't walk across the street because I was afraid I wouldn't be able to

> walk home again before surgery.

>

> Now for the first time I have walked to do my shopping at Sam's Club. (That

> is a big store.) I wasn't all that nimble and just had to suck it up and get

> to exercise after my surgery. I still get tired when I walk to far, but at

> least I can walk far!!

>

> Go for it. I am going to lose weight as I walk more and more and do more

> stationary biking.

>

> Good luck and just make up your mind and walk toward it a day at a time. It

> was all I could do.

>

> Hugs,

>

> Donna R

>

> New here!

>

> Hi. I'm a 62 year old overweight, (as in obese) grandmother with 2 bad knees.

> I've seen an ortho surgeon and had cortisone shots, simvisc shots and now am

> having to do physical therapy because I had just given up and got depressed

> and just sat feeling sorry for myself. Now my muscles are weak and I have to

> have the pt just to get strength back in my joints before I can even consider

> surgery. I have never been one to handle pain very well so just thinking

> about surgery is really freaking me out. Have any of you put up with the pain

> to the point you had to have surgery or did you request it because of the

> pain.

>

> I keep saying I want to lose weight before surgery to make the recovery

> easier, but that's another sad story...it doesn't seem to be happening.

>

> Any info would be greatly appreciated. I'm even dreading going to physical

> therapy because I don't know what to expect and as I said, I don't handle pain

> very well.

>

> Thanks everyone and I'm learning so much here.

>

> Betsy from NC

>

>

[Guest guest]

Donna, thank you so much for your inspiration. It does help to hear others

that had the surgery and were afraid before it was done, only to be so much

better off afterwards. I'm doing my therapy and hoping to strengthen my

muscles so when the doctor okays the surgery I'll be ready. Thanks again.

Betsy

>>

>> I had to quit smoking and hoped to lose weight also before I could get my

>> knees replaced. (Both knees.) I didn't take any weight off but did stop

>> smoking. And then I had surgery. One at a time. I got the left one

>> done in

>> Nov 09 and the right one done in March of 10. You can't be a bigger

>> baby or

>> be more afraid of pain than I was.

>>

>> I had never had any kind of surgery prior to this except for my 4 kids

>> and I

>> used everything I could to have them. So I was really scared. I am no

>> young

>> chick. I was 69 when I started and 70 by the time I got done with

>> surgery.

>>

>> I couldn't walk across the street because I was afraid I wouldn't be able

>> to

>> walk home again before surgery.

>>

>> Now for the first time I have walked to do my shopping at Sam's Club.

>> (That

>> is a big store.) I wasn't all that nimble and just had to suck it up and

>> get

>> to exercise after my surgery. I still get tired when I walk to far, but

>> at

>> least I can walk far!!

>>

>> Go for it. I am going to lose weight as I walk more and more and do more

>> stationary biking.

>>

>> Good luck and just make up your mind and walk toward it a day at a time.

>> It

>> was all I could do.

>>

>> Hugs,

>>

>> Donna R

>>

>> New here!

>>

>> Hi. I'm a 62 year old overweight, (as in obese) grandmother with 2 bad

>> knees.

>> I've seen an ortho surgeon and had cortisone shots, simvisc shots and now

>> am

>> having to do physical therapy because I had just given up and got

>> depressed

>> and just sat feeling sorry for myself. Now my muscles are weak and I

>> have to

>> have the pt just to get strength back in my joints before I can even

>> consider

>> surgery. I have never been one to handle pain very well so just thinking

>> about surgery is really freaking me out. Have any of you put up with the

>> pain

>> to the point you had to have surgery or did you request it because of the

>> pain.

>>

>> I keep saying I want to lose weight before surgery to make the recovery

>> easier, but that's another sad story...it doesn't seem to be happening.

>>

>> Any info would be greatly appreciated. I'm even dreading going to

>> physical

>> therapy because I don't know what to expect and as I said, I don't handle

>> pain

>> very well.

>>

>> Thanks everyone and I'm learning so much here.

>>

>> Betsy from NC

>>

>> [

[Guest guest]

I have been away for a week and so have missed some things. Betsy, keep going

to PT and try to lose some of the weight. You will be amazed at how much better

you will feel. The stronger you go into surgery the better you will come out of

it. And the lighter you are, the less it will hurt! Try the simple GI diet of

no bread, pasta, rice, white potato or deep fried foods and you will be amazed

at how you can lose! Eat plenty of fish, chicken, friut and veg. Instead of

snacking on a cookie, eat grapes! It works for me!

I am 6 months into post surgery, and yesterday took a 4 mile walk as a stroll in

the sunshine. IT will happen!

All the best, Joan

________________________________

From: Betsy <topgamma48@...>

Joint Replacement

Sent: Thu, June 10, 2010 5:52:45 AM

Subject: Re: New here!

Thanks . I appreciated the encouragement and good advice. And I'm not

just calling myself names when I say I'm obese. I probably need to lose 75

or more pounds and I know I'd feel so much better if I did. After this PT

I'll have another discussion with my doctor and see what she has to say. I

know I am bone on bone and some steps are much more painful than others. I

had just given up and didn't go anywhere and all I did was sit in my chair

and was waited on like an invalid. The depression is the worst. But I'm

hoping getting out 3 days a week for the pt will get me motivated to get out

more often. I'm thankful for this list because I am learning so much and

I'll know much more going into the surgery now that I have all of you to

educate me. Thanks so much!

Re: New here!

Hi Betsy!

No one wants to have surgery (except I guess some freaky mentally-ill

types). So, I¹d guess I¹d say that everyone here probably had surgery when

the pain of walking became enough of a problem that we were willing to go

through what is certainly an ordeal so that we could get well.

This is elective surgery. It is not directly life-saving or essential. So

you have it when first, the doctors think you¹re a good candidate (ie, your

knees are bad enough to justify a radical procedure, and you¹re otherwise in

good enough shape to withstand the surgery) and, second, you get tired of

having your knees hurt. That¹s certainly what happened to me. I had all

the cortisone and arthroscopic surgery and simvisc and all that jazz, and to

be blunt, none of them worked very well, and one fine day the light dawned:

I was going to be in pain every time I took a step unless I had my knee

replaced. That¹s the long and the short of it.

As we have reflected here, it¹s pretty hard to lose weight when you¹re

immobilized, though some people here have some good ideas on that score.

If you really are obese and not just calling yourself names, you might need

a multi-doctor approach: someone to deal with the weight issue, working with

an orthopedic surgeon and the physical therapists to bring out a good result

overall.

I¹m not going to lie to you. Knee replacement surgery is major surgery,

it¹s a big deal, and you¹re going to feel miserable for a few weeks

afterwards. But listen girl, a few weeks. At our age (I¹m three years

older than you are) a few weeks, as in three, is no big deal in the grand

scheme of things.

Go to therapy, they¹re not going to torture you, they¹ll give you exercises

to strengthen your muscles. And work with a good doctor, and get this thing

fixed, life is too short to put up with it.

F

on 6/9/10 10:27 AM, Betsy at topgamma48@... wrote:

>

>

>

>

>

> Hi. I'm a 62 year old overweight, (as in obese) grandmother with 2 bad

> knees.

> I've seen an ortho surgeon and had cortisone shots, simvisc shots and now

> am

> having to do physical therapy because I had just given up and got

> depressed

> and just sat feeling sorry for myself. Now my muscles are weak and I have

> to

> have the pt just to get strength back in my joints before I can even

> consider

> surgery. I have never been one to handle pain very well so just thinking

> about surgery is really freaking me out. Have any of you put up with the

> pain

> to the point you had to have surgery or did you request it because of the

> pain.

>

> I keep saying I want to lose weight before surgery to make the recovery

> easier, but that's another sad story...it doesn't seem to be happening.

>

> Any info would be greatly appreciated. I'm even dreading going to

> physical

> therapy because I don't know what to expect and as I said, I don't handle

> pain

> very well.

>

> Thanks everyone and I'm learning so much here.

>

> Betsy from NC

>

>

[Guest guest]

>

> Thanks . I appreciated the encouragement and good advice. And I'm not

> just calling myself names when I say I'm obese. I probably need to lose 75

> or more pounds and I know I'd feel so much better if I did.

Hi Betsey,

I think you are so brave. I am 6 wks post op from TKR, and I sure wish I had

had some PT before surgery. You will already be on your way to recovery, and

after you are more mobile, the weight will come off. The advice you got about

avoiding " white " food is good advice. We eat that way all the time.

Please keep us posted

Bonnie, in Maine

[Guest guest]

Terribly that children (and parents) should suffer so long before they get help.

Why don´t they not suspect cholesteatoma earlier, it´s so sadly.Hope the best

for your son, excuse my English

[Guest guest]

Hi - are you a member of the LVAS group on ?  If not, you may want to join

as there are several parents on there with children who has LVAS.

I have LVAS, discovered when I had the MRI done for my CI surgery.  I've been

hearing impaired all my life, and was implanted at age 51.  I have a CI on the

right, HA on the left.  I opted for the Cochlear Americas Nucleus Freedom,

since at the time of my surgery, AB and CA were the only two options for me to

choose from.  MedEl was having problems with their implant and my facility was

not using them until the issue was resolved.  My sister was implanted with the

MedEl in 2008 and loves it.  I chose Cochlear Americas as it was the product

my

clinic was implanting the most, they had better reliability statistics, and the

processor was water-resistant, which for me was important because I do a lot of

boating in the summer.  My sister chose MedEl because she wanted a smaller BTE

processor, and she didn't want to have to change programs, she wanted to be on

one program for all environments.

All three products are excellent...they will all provide the same hearing,

albeit using slightly different technology.  I would do my research on all

three, trying to compare the same things...size, type of electrodes inserted

into the cochlea, water-resistance feature, programs availability (one for

noise, one for everyday, one for music, etc.), reliability history, etc.  Then

from that information, ask your audiologist what they would recommend based on

your child's hearing history, and then make your best educated decision from

there for what you feel is best for your daughter.

 

Best of luck to you!  Hope to see you on the LVAS group. 

>

>From: tdskcaine <tdskcaine@...>

>

>Sent: Wed, September 1, 2010 12:40:38 AM

>Subject: New here!

>

> 

>Hello everyone, I am new here. I have a 6 year old with Large Vestible Aqueduct

>Syndrome, she currently wears bilat hearing aides. She just recently became a

>canidate for a cochlear. They want to do her left side first. Any thoughts?

>Comments? Suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Also, any thoughts on

>Cochlear vs. Advanced Bionics?

>

>

>