Hi everyone!

[Guest guest]

OH.......................

Re: Hi Everyone!

:-) :-) :-)

Sandy

>

> I am also a Buckeye and a Buckeye fan! Go Bucks.

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

CK,

Welcome to the group. I to have neck problems (bilateral forminal stenosis,

limited lordosis, collapsed disc-C4-5 & C5-6) as well as lumbar and sacral

issues. I am not a candidate for surgery due to other health problems and can't

afford PT, chiropractors and such and I can't take pain meds. Here's what I do

that helps, but everyone is different. I wear a soft cervical collar when the

neck pain gets really intense and I start having headaches as a result. I wear

it when I drive or ride or anywhere that my neck and head moves a lot. I use a

heated rice bag (long tube sock, filled with rice, tied at the end, heated as

warm as comfortable in the microwave) when I am laying down or in my recliner. I

rest when needed and have adapted my life to reduce additional wear and tear on

fragile joints, for me this has meant quitting work. Everyday is a challenge

when you have chronic pain. Do what you can, learn to ask for and accept help

when needed, and enjoy the

good things in your life. Good luck to you. You have a lot of support and

friends here. They are a great group.

Jane H.

From: ck4663 <ck4663@...>

Subject: Hi Everyone!

neck pain

Date: Thursday, October 15, 2009, 2:55 PM

 

Hi, I am glad to be accepted into your group. It will be nice

to know that there is support out there. I am in my forties, male and I have 4

bulging disks in my neck #3-4,4-5,5-6, 6-7, I also have some stenosis, arthritis

and a thickening of a ligament in the neck as well. These things have

progressivley gotten worse and my docotrs are mot much help. They just want to

give you pain meds and they do not seem to take the time to find out how to fix

the problem althought I am not sure if this can be fixed or not.

I currently see a chiropractor who has actually given me more help, support and

relief than anything else. I have had several cortisone shots in my neck and

that does not seem to be working the way I would like as well. I also use a neck

decompression machine at home. This mess has taken over my life and is also

affecting my job since sometimes I have so much pain i cant make it to work and

of course my boss is not too happy about that.

If anyone can share anything you have done for relief or pain managment etc,

please let me know I am at my wits end and dont know what to do. Thanks.

CK

__________________________________________________

[Guest guest]

CK,

Welcome to the group. I to have neck problems (bilateral forminal stenosis,

limited lordosis, collapsed disc-C4-5 & C5-6) as well as lumbar and sacral

issues. I am not a candidate for surgery due to other health problems and can't

afford PT, chiropractors and such and I can't take pain meds. Here's what I do

that helps, but everyone is different. I wear a soft cervical collar when the

neck pain gets really intense and I start having headaches as a result. I wear

it when I drive or ride or anywhere that my neck and head moves a lot. I use a

heated rice bag (long tube sock, filled with rice, tied at the end, heated as

warm as comfortable in the microwave) when I am laying down or in my recliner. I

rest when needed and have adapted my life to reduce additional wear and tear on

fragile joints, for me this has meant quitting work. Everyday is a challenge

when you have chronic pain. Do what you can, learn to ask for and accept help

when needed, and enjoy the

good things in your life. Good luck to you. You have a lot of support and

friends here. They are a great group.

Jane H.

From: ck4663 <ck4663@...>

Subject: Hi Everyone!

neck pain

Date: Thursday, October 15, 2009, 2:55 PM

 

Hi, I am glad to be accepted into your group. It will be nice

to know that there is support out there. I am in my forties, male and I have 4

bulging disks in my neck #3-4,4-5,5-6, 6-7, I also have some stenosis, arthritis

and a thickening of a ligament in the neck as well. These things have

progressivley gotten worse and my docotrs are mot much help. They just want to

give you pain meds and they do not seem to take the time to find out how to fix

the problem althought I am not sure if this can be fixed or not.

I currently see a chiropractor who has actually given me more help, support and

relief than anything else. I have had several cortisone shots in my neck and

that does not seem to be working the way I would like as well. I also use a neck

decompression machine at home. This mess has taken over my life and is also

affecting my job since sometimes I have so much pain i cant make it to work and

of course my boss is not too happy about that.

If anyone can share anything you have done for relief or pain managment etc,

please let me know I am at my wits end and dont know what to do. Thanks.

CK

__________________________________________________

[Guest guest]

Are you able to see a neurosurgeon? They maybe able to do asurgery shaving the

bulging disc I knew it helped me a little and the recovery isnt that bad well

with me it was my low back even a fusion may not hurt look into it if ya

intrested Good Luck to you

Huggss,

Raven

>

> Hi, I am glad to be accepted into your group. It will be nice to know that

there is support out there. I am in my forties, male and I have 4 bulging disks

in my neck #3-4,4-5,5-6,6-7, I also have some stenosis, arthritis and a

thickening of a ligament in the neck as well. These things have progressivley

gotten worse and my docotrs are mot much help. They just want to give you pain

meds and they do not seem to take the time to find out how to fix the problem

althought I am not sure if this can be fixed or not.

>

> I currently see a chiropractor who has actually given me more help, support

and relief than anything else. I have had several cortisone shots in my neck and

that does not seem to be working the way I would like as well. I also use a neck

decompression machine at home. This mess has taken over my life and is also

affecting my job since sometimes I have so much pain i cant make it to work and

of course my boss is not too happy about that.

>

> If anyone can share anything you have done for relief or pain managment etc,

please let me know I am at my wits end and dont know what to do. Thanks.

>

> CK

>

[Guest guest]

Jane, thank you!

>

> From: ck4663 <ck4663@...>

> Subject: Hi Everyone!

> neck pain

> Date: Thursday, October 15, 2009, 2:55 PM

>

>

>

>

>

>

>  

>

>

>

>

>

> Hi, I am glad to be accepted into your group. It will be

nice to know that there is support out there. I am in my forties, male and I

have 4 bulging disks in my neck #3-4,4-5,5-6, 6-7, I also have some stenosis,

arthritis and a thickening of a ligament in the neck as well. These things have

progressivley gotten worse and my docotrs are mot much help. They just want to

give you pain meds and they do not seem to take the time to find out how to fix

the problem althought I am not sure if this can be fixed or not.

>

>

>

> I currently see a chiropractor who has actually given me more help, support

and relief than anything else. I have had several cortisone shots in my neck and

that does not seem to be working the way I would like as well. I also use a neck

decompression machine at home. This mess has taken over my life and is also

affecting my job since sometimes I have so much pain i cant make it to work and

of course my boss is not too happy about that.

>

>

>

> If anyone can share anything you have done for relief or pain managment etc,

please let me know I am at my wits end and dont know what to do. Thanks.

>

>

>

> CK

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

> __________________________________________________

>

[Guest guest]

Hi Raven,

Yes I have been to a Neurosurgeon and he felt surgery was not good for me at

this time and that it would not help that much. Thnaks.

> >

> > Hi, I am glad to be accepted into your group. It will be nice to know that

there is support out there. I am in my forties, male and I have 4 bulging disks

in my neck #3-4,4-5,5-6,6-7, I also have some stenosis, arthritis and a

thickening of a ligament in the neck as well. These things have progressivley

gotten worse and my docotrs are mot much help. They just want to give you pain

meds and they do not seem to take the time to find out how to fix the problem

althought I am not sure if this can be fixed or not.

> >

> > I currently see a chiropractor who has actually given me more help, support

and relief than anything else. I have had several cortisone shots in my neck and

that does not seem to be working the way I would like as well. I also use a neck

decompression machine at home. This mess has taken over my life and is also

affecting my job since sometimes I have so much pain i cant make it to work and

of course my boss is not too happy about that.

> >

> > If anyone can share anything you have done for relief or pain managment etc,

please let me know I am at my wits end and dont know what to do. Thanks.

> >

> > CK

> >

>

[Guest guest]

Well I wish you luck just dont be afraid to get a second opinion Ive learn some

doc arent comfortable about it. So plz let me know how things go for ya, your in

my prayers

Hugggss

Raven

> > >

> > > Hi, I am glad to be accepted into your group. It will be nice to know

that there is support out there. I am in my forties, male and I have 4 bulging

disks in my neck #3-4,4-5,5-6,6-7, I also have some stenosis, arthritis and a

thickening of a ligament in the neck as well. These things have progressivley

gotten worse and my docotrs are mot much help. They just want to give you pain

meds and they do not seem to take the time to find out how to fix the problem

althought I am not sure if this can be fixed or not.

> > >

> > > I currently see a chiropractor who has actually given me more help,

support and relief than anything else. I have had several cortisone shots in my

neck and that does not seem to be working the way I would like as well. I also

use a neck decompression machine at home. This mess has taken over my life and

is also affecting my job since sometimes I have so much pain i cant make it to

work and of course my boss is not too happy about that.

> > >

> > > If anyone can share anything you have done for relief or pain managment

etc, please let me know I am at my wits end and dont know what to do. Thanks.

> > >

> > > CK

> > >

> >

>

[Guest guest]

Hi Anita,

Welcome to our world. This is going to be such a great journey for you. Just remember we are here every step of the way for you. There AREN'T any questions that you can't ask us. We talk about all kinds of topics on this site, so NEVER feel embarrassed to ask us something. At least one of us has had that problem or issue. You will love your new life. Each month it will get better and better. Just remember the first month is the hardest month that you will do. It is part of the retraining of your brain, and the boredom of the different stages of food that you have to start out with.

You are going to have all kinds of feeling and emotions going on from now until you have the surgery. That is very normal. If you are scared, excited, doubt what you are doing, please just come back here and say what it is that is going on with you. This board is for support and answers.

Hugs to you and congratulations for doing the best thing you could ever do for yourself.

Suzanne

Sleeved 10/21/2008

225 120 125

Start Now Goal

In a message dated 1/9/2011 10:41:09 A.M. Pacific Standard Time, acaramelrn@... writes:

Just wanted to let everyone know that I will be having VSG on January 27th with Dr Aceves. I am a 40 year old RN originally from NJ now residing in South Florida who has been battling obesity since childhood. My BMI is 48.2 currently. I will be going alone to Mexicali. Unfortunately, my spouse is dead set against it. Nevertheless I am excited and at peace with this decision.I am not much of a writer, but I will share my love and support as often as I can here. Please pass along some love and hugs over here as well whenever you get a chance!Blessings!Anita

[Guest guest]

Hi Anita:

Congrat. I'm a RN too from Miami and I'll be in surgery next friday 14, my BMI is 35 but still with a lot obesity problems including a cath on 2007, HTN etc( I'm 43 years old) so feel peace and continue with your excitemen about it, don;t be afraid to go alone in mexicalli you will meet a lot of loser and become your soul mate at that moment. Feel free to ask me at any time about anything.

Best regards and blessings

From: acaramelrn <acaramelrn@...> Sent: Sat, January 8, 2011 9:24:39 PMSubject: Hi everyone!

Just wanted to let everyone know that I will be having VSG on January 27th with Dr Aceves. I am a 40 year old RN originally from NJ now residing in South Florida who has been battling obesity since childhood. My BMI is 48.2 currently. I will be going alone to Mexicali. Unfortunately, my spouse is dead set against it. Nevertheless I am excited and at peace with this decision.I am not much of a writer, but I will share my love and support as often as I can here. Please pass along some love and hugs over here as well whenever you get a chance!Blessings!Anita

[Guest guest]

So happy for you.  The sharing of stories like yours is so helpful for everyone who has not made the decision yet.

On Tue, Jan 11, 2011 at 11:33 PM, allison p <allypad@...> wrote:

 

I haven't been on in quite a while, but I still get e-mail messages and read them. I figured that it is time that I chimed in here with how I am doing since yesterday was my 4 month surgiversary. I just stepped on the scale and it read 145 - yea! I started my journey at 227 four months ago. I am absolutely amazed that I only weigh 145 and am 5 pounds away from my original goal. I will probably want to get to 130 now though :-) I feel absolutely wonderful - I am off of my blood pressure medication and my blood pressure is great and my sugar is great because I was headed toward being a diabetic the same way my mom is and grandmother was.

The first month was the hardest - now it is really very easy. I eat pretty much what I want - I just can't eat alot of it. Tonight, I treated myself to a few drinks of my sons double chocolate chip frappacino from Starbucks - two drinks was enough whereas before I would have drank the whole thing and wanted another!

The only issues that I have had thus far is that I ended up in the ER dehydrated a bit - my own fault because I can't seem to get enough liquids in. I also ended up in the ER with heart palpitations - once again, my own fault because my potassium was low and I wasn't very stringent about taking my vitamins everyday. I am trying to be better about taking them - so please heed my advice and take them! I am not much of a pill taker, so for some reason, it is a chore for me.

Other than that, I am doing fantastic! My feet don't hurt at work anymore - people are absolutely amazed when they see me. This was the best thing I could have done for myself, otherwise, I would have been on insulin injections in a few years and who knows what else!

So, for those of you who have reservations about this surgery - don't! It is the best thing I have done for myself. I won't sugar coat the first month - it is tough, but you will make it through just fine. I truly believe this was a mourning food phase for me - plus the ghrelin takes a while to get out of your system.

If anyone has any questions, please feel free to e-mail me and ask me - I am an open book! Take care everyone and good luck!

[Guest guest]

Great message, very true! Congratulations on your weight loss, that's GREAT!!!

Re: Hi Everyone!

So happy for you. The sharing of stories like yours is so helpful for everyone who has not made the decision yet.

On Tue, Jan 11, 2011 at 11:33 PM, allison p <allypad@...> wrote:

I haven't been on in quite a while, but I still get e-mail messages and read them. I figured that it is time that I chimed in here with how I am doing since yesterday was my 4 month surgiversary. I just stepped on the scale and it read 145 - yea! I started my journey at 227 four months ago. I am absolutely amazed that I only weigh 145 and am 5 pounds away from my original goal. I will probably want to get to 130 now though :-) I feel absolutely wonderful - I am off of my blood pressure medication and my blood pressure is great and my sugar is great because I was headed toward being a diabetic the same way my mom is and grandmother was.

The first month was the hardest - now it is really very easy. I eat pretty much what I want - I just can't eat alot of it. Tonight, I treated myself to a few drinks of my sons double chocolate chip frappacino from Starbucks - two drinks was enough whereas before I would have drank the whole thing and wanted another!

The only issues that I have had thus far is that I ended up in the ER dehydrated a bit - my own fault because I can't seem to get enough liquids in. I also ended up in the ER with heart palpitations - once again, my own fault because my potassium was low and I wasn't very stringent about taking my vitamins everyday. I am trying to be better about taking them - so please heed my advice and take them! I am not much of a pill taker, so for some reason, it is a chore for me.

Other than that, I am doing fantastic! My feet don't hurt at work anymore - people are absolutely amazed when they see me. This was the best thing I could have done for myself, otherwise, I would have been on insulin injections in a few years and who knows what else!

So, for those of you who have reservations about this surgery - don't! It is the best thing I have done for myself. I won't sugar coat the first month - it is tough, but you will make it through just fine. I truly believe this was a mourning food phase for me - plus the ghrelin takes a while to get out of your system.

If anyone has any questions, please feel free to e-mail me and ask me - I am an open book! Take care everyone and good luck!

[Guest guest]

Hi ,

I also had problems with potassium and take a medication for it. But my doctor also said that strawberries have a lot of potassium in them, so I treat myself to strawberries ALL the time. Bananas have too many carbs because I knew they had a lot of potassium in them. So it is strawberries for me and they are yummy and a treat.

Congratulations on your GREAT weight loss.

Suzanne

In a message dated 1/12/2011 8:10:45 A.M. Pacific Standard Time, allypad@... writes:

I haven't been on in quite a while, but I still get e-mail messages and read them. I figured that it is time that I chimed in here with how I am doing since yesterday was my 4 month surgiversary. I just stepped on the scale and it read 145 - yea! I started my journey at 227 four months ago. I am absolutely amazed that I only weigh 145 and am 5 pounds away from my original goal. I will probably want to get to 130 now though :-) I feel absolutely wonderful - I am off of my blood pressure medication and my blood pressure is great and my sugar is great because I was headed toward being a diabetic the same way my mom is and grandmother was.The first month was the hardest - now it is really very easy. I eat pretty much what I want - I just can't eat alot of it. Tonight, I treated myself to a few drinks of my sons double chocolate chip frappacino from Starbucks - two drinks was enough whereas before I would have drank the whole thing and wanted another!The only issues that I have had thus far is that I ended up in the ER dehydrated a bit - my own fault because I can't seem to get enough liquids in. I also ended up in the ER with heart palpitations - once again, my own fault because my potassium was low and I wasn't very stringent about taking my vitamins everyday. I am trying to be better about taking them - so please heed my advice and take them! I am not much of a pill taker, so for some reason, it is a chore for me.Other than that, I am doing fantastic! My feet don't hurt at work anymore - people are absolutely amazed when they see me. This was the best thing I could have done for myself, otherwise, I would have been on insulin injections in a few years and who knows what else!So, for those of you who have reservations about this surgery - don't! It is the best thing I have done for myself. I won't sugar coat the first month - it is tough, but you will make it through just fine. I truly believe this was a mourning food phase for me - plus the ghrelin takes a while to get out of your system.If anyone has any questions, please feel free to e-mail me and ask me - I am an open book! Take care everyone and good luck!

[Guest guest]

Does anyone know if frozen strawberries wouldBe the equivalent to fresh strawberries in terms ofIncreasing potassium levels?Thanks, F. HuntSent from my IPhone On Jan 12, 2011, at 1:50 PM, SuzanneSH@... wrote:

Hi ,

I also had problems with potassium and take a medication for it. But my doctor also said that strawberries have a lot of potassium in them, so I treat myself to strawberries ALL the time. Bananas have too many carbs because I knew they had a lot of potassium in them. So it is strawberries for me and they are yummy and a treat.

Congratulations on your GREAT weight loss.

Suzanne

In a message dated 1/12/2011 8:10:45 A.M. Pacific Standard Time, allypad@... writes:

I haven't been on in quite a while, but I still get e-mail messages and read them. I figured that it is time that I chimed in here with how I am doing since yesterday was my 4 month surgiversary. I just stepped on the scale and it read 145 - yea! I started my journey at 227 four months ago. I am absolutely amazed that I only weigh 145 and am 5 pounds away from my original goal. I will probably want to get to 130 now though :-) I feel absolutely wonderful - I am off of my blood pressure medication and my blood pressure is great and my sugar is great because I was headed toward being a diabetic the same way my mom is and grandmother was.The first month was the hardest - now it is really very easy. I eat pretty much what I want - I just can't eat alot of it. Tonight, I treated myself to a few drinks of my sons double chocolate chip frappacino from Starbucks - two drinks was enough whereas before I would have drank the whole thing and wanted another!The only issues that I have had thus far is that I ended up in the ER dehydrated a bit - my own fault because I can't seem to get enough liquids in. I also ended up in the ER with heart palpitations - once again, my own fault because my potassium was low and I wasn't very stringent about taking my vitamins everyday. I am trying to be better about taking them - so please heed my advice and take them! I am not much of a pill taker, so for some reason, it is a chore for me.Other than that, I am doing fantastic! My feet don't hurt at work anymore - people are absolutely amazed when they see me. This was the best thing I could have done for myself, otherwise, I would have been on insulin injections in a few years and who knows what else!So, for those of you who have reservations about this surgery - don't! It is the best thing I have done for myself. I won't sugar coat the first month - it is tough, but you will make it through just fine. I truly believe this was a mourning food phase for me - plus the ghrelin takes a while to get out of your system.If anyone has any questions, please feel free to e-mail me and ask me - I am an open book! Take care everyone and good luck!

[Guest guest]

Alison,

Thanks for posting! We love to hear success stories like yours, and I know it

really helps those who are still in the investigative phase. Congratulations on

your awesome success! And please chime in from time to time. You can be such a

blessing to those following you on the path to health.

Cheryl*

[Guest guest]

same in terms of potassium although freezing does reduce levels a tiny bit.

In a message dated 1/13/2011 10:48:47 A.M. Pacific Standard Time, brenda0600@... writes:

Does anyone know if frozen strawberries would

Be the equivalent to fresh strawberries in terms of

Increasing potassium levels?

Thanks,

F. Hunt

Sent from my IPhone

On Jan 12, 2011, at 1:50 PM, SuzanneSH@... wrote:

Hi ,

I also had problems with potassium and take a medication for it. But my doctor also said that strawberries have a lot of potassium in them, so I treat myself to strawberries ALL the time. Bananas have too many carbs because I knew they had a lot of potassium in them. So it is strawberries for me and they are yummy and a treat.

Congratulations on your GREAT weight loss.

Suzanne

In a message dated 1/12/2011 8:10:45 A.M. Pacific Standard Time, allypad@... writes:

I haven't been on in quite a while, but I still get e-mail messages and read them. I figured that it is time that I chimed in here with how I am doing since yesterday was my 4 month surgiversary. I just stepped on the scale and it read 145 - yea! I started my journey at 227 four months ago. I am absolutely amazed that I only weigh 145 and am 5 pounds away from my original goal. I will probably want to get to 130 now though :-) I feel absolutely wonderful - I am off of my blood pressure medication and my blood pressure is great and my sugar is great because I was headed toward being a diabetic the same way my mom is and grandmother was.The first month was the hardest - now it is really very easy. I eat pretty much what I want - I just can't eat alot of it. Tonight, I treated myself to a few drinks of my sons double chocolate chip frappacino from Starbucks - two drinks was enough whereas before I would have drank the whole thing and wanted another!The only issues that I have had thus far is that I ended up in the ER dehydrated a bit - my own fault because I can't seem to get enough liquids in. I also ended up in the ER with heart palpitations - once again, my own fault because my potassium was low and I wasn't very stringent about taking my vitamins everyday. I am trying to be better about taking them - so please heed my advice and take them! I am not much of a pill taker, so for some reason, it is a chore for me.Other than that, I am doing fantastic! My feet don't hurt at work anymore - people are absolutely amazed when they see me. This was the best thing I could have done for myself, otherwise, I would have been on insulin injections in a few years and who knows what else!So, for those of you who have reservations about this surgery - don't! It is the best thing I have done for myself. I won't sugar coat the first month - it is tough, but you will make it through just fine. I truly believe this was a mourning food phase for me - plus the ghrelin takes a while to get out of your system.If anyone has any questions, please feel free to e-mail me and ask me - I am an open book! Take care everyone and good luck!

[Guest guest]

I don't think it makes any difference. Freezing them shouldn't change theamount of potassium that they have in them.

Suzanne

In a message dated 1/13/2011 10:48:48 A.M. Pacific Standard Time, brenda0600@... writes:

Does anyone know if frozen strawberries would

Be the equivalent to fresh strawberries in terms of

Increasing potassium levels?

Thanks,

F. Hunt

Sent from my IPhone

On Jan 12, 2011, at 1:50 PM, SuzanneSH@... wrote:

Hi ,

I also had problems with potassium and take a medication for it. But my doctor also said that strawberries have a lot of potassium in them, so I treat myself to strawberries ALL the time. Bananas have too many carbs because I knew they had a lot of potassium in them. So it is strawberries for me and they are yummy and a treat.

Congratulations on your GREAT weight loss.

Suzanne

In a message dated 1/12/2011 8:10:45 A.M. Pacific Standard Time, allypad@... writes:

I haven't been on in quite a while, but I still get e-mail messages and read them. I figured that it is time that I chimed in here with how I am doing since yesterday was my 4 month surgiversary. I just stepped on the scale and it read 145 - yea! I started my journey at 227 four months ago. I am absolutely amazed that I only weigh 145 and am 5 pounds away from my original goal. I will probably want to get to 130 now though :-) I feel absolutely wonderful - I am off of my blood pressure medication and my blood pressure is great and my sugar is great because I was headed toward being a diabetic the same way my mom is and grandmother was.The first month was the hardest - now it is really very easy. I eat pretty much what I want - I just can't eat alot of it. Tonight, I treated myself to a few drinks of my sons double chocolate chip frappacino from Starbucks - two drinks was enough whereas before I would have drank the whole thing and wanted another!The only issues that I have had thus far is that I ended up in the ER dehydrated a bit - my own fault because I can't seem to get enough liquids in. I also ended up in the ER with heart palpitations - once again, my own fault because my potassium was low and I wasn't very stringent about taking my vitamins everyday. I am trying to be better about taking them - so please heed my advice and take them! I am not much of a pill taker, so for some reason, it is a chore for me.Other than that, I am doing fantastic! My feet don't hurt at work anymore - people are absolutely amazed when they see me. This was the best thing I could have done for myself, otherwise, I would have been on insulin injections in a few years and who knows what else!So, for those of you who have reservations about this surgery - don't! It is the best thing I have done for myself. I won't sugar coat the first month - it is tough, but you will make it through just fine. I truly believe this was a mourning food phase for me - plus the ghrelin takes a while to get out of your system.If anyone has any questions, please feel free to e-mail me and ask me - I am an open book! Take care everyone and good luck!

[Guest guest]

I have also found that there are a lot of drinks now available, including

coconut milk, that are full of potassium.

>

> Hi ,

>

> I also had problems with potassium and take a medication for it. But my

> doctor also said that strawberries have a lot of potassium in them, so I

> treat myself to strawberries ALL the time. Bananas have too many carbs

> because I knew they had a lot of potassium in them. So it is strawberries

for me

> and they are yummy and a treat.

>

> Congratulations on your GREAT weight loss.

>

> Suzanne

>

>

> In a message dated 1/12/2011 8:10:45 A.M. Pacific Standard Time,

> allypad@... writes:

>

>

>

>

> I haven't been on in quite a while, but I still get e-mail messages and

> read them. I figured that it is time that I chimed in here with how I am doing

> since yesterday was my 4 month surgiversary. I just stepped on the scale

> and it read 145 - yea! I started my journey at 227 four months ago. I am

> absolutely amazed that I only weigh 145 and am 5 pounds away from my original

> goal. I will probably want to get to 130 now though :-) I feel absolutely

> wonderful - I am off of my blood pressure medication and my blood pressure

> is great and my sugar is great because I was headed toward being a diabetic

> the same way my mom is and grandmother was.

>

> The first month was the hardest - now it is really very easy. I eat pretty

> much what I want - I just can't eat alot of it. Tonight, I treated myself

> to a few drinks of my sons double chocolate chip frappacino from Starbucks

> - two drinks was enough whereas before I would have drank the whole thing

> and wanted another!

>

> The only issues that I have had thus far is that I ended up in the ER

> dehydrated a bit - my own fault because I can't seem to get enough liquids

in.

> I also ended up in the ER with heart palpitations - once again, my own

> fault because my potassium was low and I wasn't very stringent about taking

my

> vitamins everyday. I am trying to be better about taking them - so please

> heed my advice and take them! I am not much of a pill taker, so for some

> reason, it is a chore for me.

>

> Other than that, I am doing fantastic! My feet don't hurt at work anymore

> - people are absolutely amazed when they see me. This was the best thing I

> could have done for myself, otherwise, I would have been on insulin

> injections in a few years and who knows what else!

>

> So, for those of you who have reservations about this surgery - don't! It

> is the best thing I have done for myself. I won't sugar coat the first

> month - it is tough, but you will make it through just fine. I truly believe

> this was a mourning food phase for me - plus the ghrelin takes a while to get

> out of your system.

>

> If anyone has any questions, please feel free to e-mail me and ask me - I

> am an open book! Take care everyone and good luck!

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Hi everyone!

I have not posted in a very long time, but most of you know me. I have decided

to stop by for a " visit " and give an update on my current status. As most of you

know, I had a 3-stage revision last year - March, April and May of 2010. A year

ago today, I was brought to rehabilitation whereby my recovery began. A whole

year ago!!

I recently saw Dr. Glazer (whom I ADORE!) for my one year follow-up and all is

good!

This is where things stand for me:

I am now fused from C4-7 and T3 to the sacrum. I am standing straight. I can

walk for long distances with no significant back pain or discomfort. Sitting can

be more problematic, depending on the chair. I have yet to find a chair that I

find comfortable as I feel better sitting on the backs of my thighs than I do

actually sitting on my butt! So, slightly leaning forward I guess? I think the

real issue is that if I sit leaning back at all, my tailbone hurts. Hence, I

cannot sit on a sofa for any length of time or recline in a recliner or sit in a

soft chair. It doesn't' hurt my back, but it does hurt my tailbone and my lumbar

region will get achy. So I can't recline in bed at all either. So basically,

sitting straight up or laying flat is what works best for me. I " mourn " the

notion of " snuggling " up on the couch to say, read a book or magazine. Maybe one

day?

I returned to work part-time in November, 6 months after my 3rd surgery last May

and returned full-time in 2 1/2 months later in January of this year. I have a

82 mile round trip commute each day, 45 min each way. My car is very comfortable

and the ride is seldom an issue. I do still get tired easily but my strength

improves all the time. I lost 35 lbs with my surgeries and have had no

difficulty keeping it off even though I do no exercise other than simple

walking. I think just being able to move in the slightest has helped me, as many

of you that knew me before my surgeries knew that I was quite debilitated by my

Flatback. I literally got to the point where I could no longer function at all.

My surgeries were a traumatic, yet humbling experience and life has changed

significantly for me during the past year. There are a lot of changes - my

youngest graduated from High School three weeks after I got home from

rehabilitation and then I sent him off to college 2 1/2 months later, I started

working full-time for the first time in more than 23 years, I am currently in

the process of a divorce after being married for 29 years and I am turning 50

next month!

Some may wonder if I have anything to be happy about? The answer is YES!! Dr.

Glazer gave me back what I had lost a very long time ago. I was in such pain for

so, so long and sadly, I didn't even realize it! I just took on more and more

pain. I feel so badly for that woman as it is as if she was someone different

and not actually me!?! It definitely was a horrifying experience to endure but

one that I would do again to gain what I now have. And that is a relatively

pain-free existence. I hope and pray that we all have enduring success with

these surgeries.

My only regret is that I waited so long. I put everything, and I mean

everything, on hold trying to wait for the " right " time to do it. As many of you

know, I hemmed and hawed about it for 6 years before doing it and making that

decision was the best thing I ever did. Yes, I have some residual issues - I

have a recurring SI issue on my right hip, my knees are in rough shape despite

having bilateral arthroscopy 2 years ago, one leg is shorter than the other and

I have some neuropathy in my right leg and foot that has not improved

unfortunately. But overall?? I am great! I am hopeful for a great future. I am

relatively pain free. I am thrilled that I found Dr. Glazer and received

fabulous care and support from this man whom I now consider a friend and more

than anything, I GRATEFUL! So very, very grateful!!

This group is filled with so many supportive, knowledgeable and wonderful

people. To ALL that have supported me and helped me along the way - although I

may not keep in touch, please know that you are all in my heart and I think of

you often! With love and appreciation and I pray that all of you are feeling

well!! God bless each and every one of you!!

Fondly,

D (RI)

[Guest guest]

Hey gal with the RI accent! That still makes me laugh! LOL I need to spend a week with you to see what I sound like when I put the northern/southern with it!!!I will be going thru a divorce as well. I left hubby and have no intentions to reconcile. I'm selling my collection of Fenton Art Glass to get an attorney. I am definitely happier being on my own. I'm glad you are doing well. My revision was 4 years ago. Our retreat was 2 years ago! I miss not being together this year but there's no way I could have afforded it. Now that you say it, I'm also more comfortable leaning forward when I sit. My sacrum doesn't hurt but I almost always lean forward on any surface that I sit on! I never really thought about it before. Take care Val!PeggySent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerryFrom: "valerie_delaney" <vad61@...>Sender: Date: Sun, 15 May 2011 00:32:02 -0000< >Reply Subject: [ ] Hi everyone! Hi everyone!I have not posted in a very long time, but most of you know me. I have decided to stop by for a " visit " and give an update on my current status. As most of you know, I had a 3-stage revision last year - March, April and May of 2010. A year ago today, I was brought to rehabilitation whereby my recovery began. A whole year ago!!I recently saw Dr. Glazer (whom I ADORE!) for my one year follow-up and all is good! This is where things stand for me:I am now fused from C4-7 and T3 to the sacrum. I am standing straight. I can walk for long distances with no significant back pain or discomfort. Sitting can be more problematic, depending on the chair. I have yet to find a chair that I find comfortable as I feel better sitting on the backs of my thighs than I do actually sitting on my butt! So, slightly leaning forward I guess? I think the real issue is that if I sit leaning back at all, my tailbone hurts. Hence, I cannot sit on a sofa for any length of time or recline in a recliner or sit in a soft chair. It doesn't' hurt my back, but it does hurt my tailbone and my lumbar region will get achy. So I can't recline in bed at all either. So basically, sitting straight up or laying flat is what works best for me. I " mourn " the notion of " snuggling " up on the couch to say, read a book or magazine. Maybe one day? I returned to work part-time in November, 6 months after my 3rd surgery last May and returned full-time in 2 1/2 months later in January of this year. I have a 82 mile round trip commute each day, 45 min each way. My car is very comfortable and the ride is seldom an issue. I do still get tired easily but my strength improves all the time. I lost 35 lbs with my surgeries and have had no difficulty keeping it off even though I do no exercise other than simple walking. I think just being able to move in the slightest has helped me, as many of you that knew me before my surgeries knew that I was quite debilitated by my Flatback. I literally got to the point where I could no longer function at all. My surgeries were a traumatic, yet humbling experience and life has changed significantly for me during the past year. There are a lot of changes - my youngest graduated from High School three weeks after I got home from rehabilitation and then I sent him off to college 2 1/2 months later, I started working full-time for the first time in more than 23 years, I am currently in the process of a divorce after being married for 29 years and I am turning 50 next month! Some may wonder if I have anything to be happy about? The answer is YES!! Dr. Glazer gave me back what I had lost a very long time ago. I was in such pain for so, so long and sadly, I didn't even realize it! I just took on more and more pain. I feel so badly for that woman as it is as if she was someone different and not actually me!?! It definitely was a horrifying experience to endure but one that I would do again to gain what I now have. And that is a relatively pain-free existence. I hope and pray that we all have enduring success with these surgeries. My only regret is that I waited so long. I put everything, and I mean everything, on hold trying to wait for the " right " time to do it. As many of you know, I hemmed and hawed about it for 6 years before doing it and making that decision was the best thing I ever did. Yes, I have some residual issues - I have a recurring SI issue on my right hip, my knees are in rough shape despite having bilateral arthroscopy 2 years ago, one leg is shorter than the other and I have some neuropathy in my right leg and foot that has not improved unfortunately. But overall?? I am great! I am hopeful for a great future. I am relatively pain free. I am thrilled that I found Dr. Glazer and received fabulous care and support from this man whom I now consider a friend and more than anything, I GRATEFUL! So very, very grateful!!This group is filled with so many supportive, knowledgeable and wonderful people. To ALL that have supported me and helped me along the way - although I may not keep in touch, please know that you are all in my heart and I think of you often! With love and appreciation and I pray that all of you are feeling well!! God bless each and every one of you!!Fondly, D (RI)

[Guest guest]

, Thank you so much for posting. I am about to have fusions that will make me fused from T10-S1 and C1-T1 so it is very good to hear how well you are doing with most of your spine fused. I wish you all the best with the divorce and your work. I dream of being able to work again. You are truly an inspiration. Wishing you the Best, Kate

From: valerie_delaney

Sent: Saturday, May 14, 2011 8:32 PM

Subject: [ ] Hi everyone!

Hi everyone!I have not posted in a very long time, but most of you know me. I have decided to stop by for a "visit" and give an update on my current status. As most of you know, I had a 3-stage revision last year - March, April and May of 2010. A year ago today, I was brought to rehabilitation whereby my recovery began. A whole year ago!!I recently saw Dr. Glazer (whom I ADORE!) for my one year follow-up and all is good! This is where things stand for me:I am now fused from C4-7 and T3 to the sacrum. I am standing straight. I can walk for long distances with no significant back pain or discomfort. Sitting can be more problematic, depending on the chair. I have yet to find a chair that I find comfortable as I feel better sitting on the backs of my thighs than I do actually sitting on my butt! So, slightly leaning forward I guess? I think the real issue is that if I sit leaning back at all, my tailbone hurts. Hence, I cannot sit on a sofa for any length of time or recline in a recliner or sit in a soft chair. It doesn't' hurt my back, but it does hurt my tailbone and my lumbar region will get achy. So I can't recline in bed at all either. So basically, sitting straight up or laying flat is what works best for me. I "mourn" the notion of "snuggling" up on the couch to say, read a book or magazine. Maybe one day? I returned to work part-time in November, 6 months after my 3rd surgery last May and returned full-time in 2 1/2 months later in January of this year. I have a 82 mile round trip commute each day, 45 min each way. My car is very comfortable and the ride is seldom an issue. I do still get tired easily but my strength improves all the time. I lost 35 lbs with my surgeries and have had no difficulty keeping it off even though I do no exercise other than simple walking. I think just being able to move in the slightest has helped me, as many of you that knew me before my surgeries knew that I was quite debilitated by my Flatback. I literally got to the point where I could no longer function at all. My surgeries were a traumatic, yet humbling experience and life has changed significantly for me during the past year. There are a lot of changes - my youngest graduated from High School three weeks after I got home from rehabilitation and then I sent him off to college 2 1/2 months later, I started working full-time for the first time in more than 23 years, I am currently in the process of a divorce after being married for 29 years and I am turning 50 next month! Some may wonder if I have anything to be happy about? The answer is YES!! Dr. Glazer gave me back what I had lost a very long time ago. I was in such pain for so, so long and sadly, I didn't even realize it! I just took on more and more pain. I feel so badly for that woman as it is as if she was someone different and not actually me!?! It definitely was a horrifying experience to endure but one that I would do again to gain what I now have. And that is a relatively pain-free existence. I hope and pray that we all have enduring success with these surgeries. My only regret is that I waited so long. I put everything, and I mean everything, on hold trying to wait for the "right" time to do it. As many of you know, I hemmed and hawed about it for 6 years before doing it and making that decision was the best thing I ever did. Yes, I have some residual issues - I have a recurring SI issue on my right hip, my knees are in rough shape despite having bilateral arthroscopy 2 years ago, one leg is shorter than the other and I have some neuropathy in my right leg and foot that has not improved unfortunately. But overall?? I am great! I am hopeful for a great future. I am relatively pain free. I am thrilled that I found Dr. Glazer and received fabulous care and support from this man whom I now consider a friend and more than anything, I GRATEFUL! So very, very grateful!!This group is filled with so many supportive, knowledgeable and wonderful people. To ALL that have supported me and helped me along the way - although I may not keep in touch, please know that you are all in my heart and I think of you often! With love and appreciation and I pray that all of you are feeling well!! God bless each and every one of you!!Fondly, D (RI)

[Guest guest]

Hi ,

So good to hear from you and even better to hear that you are doing so

well. I am so happy for you! You went through so much to get to this

good place. I remember that it took you a very long time to decide to

have revision surgery, but once you did, you went at it with a very

positive attitude, a factor that I think is very important in recovery

and in " reinventing " your life. I think we all do a bit of

" reinventing " our lives because of the huge change in our bodies and

the long length of recovery time and, often, some residual issues as

well. On top of that, as if it weren't enough to deal with, you've

had to send your son off to college and are going through a divorce.

You are a strong person and it sounds like you're handling all these

changes so well. I'm routing for you and I just know you'll deal with

everything and wind up with a very positive outcome. The fifties are

a great decade - you have a lot to look forward to.

Best,

Bonnie

[Guest guest]

Peggy,

My sister is going though a divorce in California. She has money

issues and can't afford an attorney right now, but she has found good

legal help through the Legal Aide Society. Maybe you can find

something like that in North Carolina.

Good luck.

Bonnie

[Guest guest]

Peggy,

Bonnie is absolutely correct. Lawyers are commited to providing a certain amount

of pro bono work and many work along with these sites. Check out these sites:

www.legalaidnc.org 1-877-903-2100

www.usattorneylegalservices.com/free-legal-aid-North-Carolina.html

www.lawhelp.org/NC

As a last resort, I know of a woman who couldn't afford an attorney either and

you know what she did? She called the most expensive lawyer she could find and

guess what he did it pro bono for her!! I have a co-worker who took the same

route - that guy didn't take on her case BUT.....he led her to a female attorney

who did it for free!! Ask, ask, ask - at the very least the answer will be no

and you'll be no worse for the wear than where you are right now. Good luck, let

us know how you make out!

D

>

> Peggy,

>

> My sister is going though a divorce in California. She has money

> issues and can't afford an attorney right now, but she has found good

> legal help through the Legal Aide Society. Maybe you can find

> something like that in North Carolina.

>

> Good luck.

>

> Bonnie

>

[Guest guest]



Hi Dean,

I wouldn’t take iron unless I knew I was deficient in iron. It is not one the the nutrients suggested on the Iodine Protocol. Best, Kathleen

Hi everyone!

I have been reading all the provided links and all the info. Whew! there’s a lot out there. For

now, I will up my intake of iodine to 24mg (from 32 mg of KI) but continue

reading. I did come across that one item and that was I need to get iron

into the mix. I am a near vegetarian and I had forgotten about iron.

Anyway, I am happy and excited about this group and glad to be

onboard.

Peace and light, Dean

[Guest guest]

Just an FYI that is maybe OT...

Cooking in cast iron pans will give you a little iron everytime you eat. Just

make sure to cook in lots of fat or oil in the pan so you dish doesn't stick.

>

> I have been reading all the provided links and all the info. Whew! there’s a

lot out there. For

> now, I will up my intake of iodine to 24mg (from 32 mg of KI) but continue

> reading. I did come across that one item and that was I need to get iron

> into the mix. I am a near vegetarian and I had forgotten about iron.

> Anyway, I am happy and excited about this group and glad to be

> onboard.

> Peace and light, Dean

>