tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12507744760923065722024-02-08T10:37:42.334-08:00Amanda's Weight Loss.Amanda Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09647880749146170062noreply@blogger.comBlogger27125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1250774476092306572.post-21664563889539840992010-09-03T21:37:00.000-07:002010-09-03T21:37:00.935-07:00Eek!!So I've been limited to what I can wear lately. I swear I live in yoga/activewear capris. (enough to have already worn some holes in the inner thighs boo!)<br /><br />Anyhow, I figured it was time for a new pair so I headed to Ross. After looking and bit and debating on if I should try a small size I picked up a Large in . My old ones were getting a little baggy and a XL.(old navy)<br /><br />On my way back to the dressing room I passed 1x shirts. While looking through them I figured I'd try a size smaller. Not finding anything I liked I walked back to the fitting room. <br /><br />While I was walking back I found this super cute top. Sadly it was a medium. For giggles and to see how much more I had to lose I brought it in. <br /><br />Tried the pants on and felt great! They're a little tight in my 'mom pooch' area, but will fit amazingly in another -10 pounds so I grabbed those right up for only $12.00, then tried on a cute sweater but decided not to get it since it was an XL and by the time I get to Iowa I should be smaller. <br /><br />I put the top on and almost yelped. It fit!!! I little snug but I should fit into it more and more comfortably in no time!!! Best of all, 9.99 :D <br /><br />Eeek!!!! A large in bottoms (stretch) and a MEDIUM in that style of tops. Needless to say I've been in cloud 9 all afternoon. <br /><br />To top it off my scale said 214 this afternoon. That's 36 pounds down, 15 more until 51 pounds lost and 199.0 lbs. <br /><br />Picture or it didn't happen :D.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/09/03/2679.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/09/03/s_2679.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />I can also fit into an old vest I loved so much. XL Cato. (blame the boobies. ) ;)<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/09/03/2680.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/09/03/s_2680.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Amanda<br />-- Post From My iPhone<br />Amanda Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09647880749146170062noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1250774476092306572.post-49863102251169191162010-08-13T09:12:00.000-07:002010-08-13T09:12:54.698-07:002 weeks post op.I had my two week post-op appointment on Wednesday. I managed to get there with two minutes to spare. Traffic was ridiculous.<br />
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I got in and weighed and waited for my doctor. 25 pounds lost! Hurrah! (27 lbs as of today ;D). So since I started my pre-op diet a month ago I've lost 27 lbs total. I really haven't noticed a difference but I've had two people tell me I look great so I must be losing it somewhere?!<br />
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My Football work shirt does feel a bit baggy on me now. Score.<br />
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Anyhow, doctor says everything looks great and I can start on soft foods now. I'm even drinking a protein drink right now. It's decent. <a href="http://www.overstockdrugstore.com/product_images/w/074312443206.jpg">Body Fortress Super Advanced Whey Protein- chocolate</a>.<br />
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The doctor also cleared me for the gym :D. She told me to use common sense and if it hurt to stop, but other than that I'm good. I am so excited :D. I might try to get a work out session in tonight!<br />
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She prescribed me a muscle relaxer for my back since it seems to be tensing up a little. She also prescribed me my b-12 nasal spray. I need to start taking calcium now and my multi-vitamin make me want to puke it tastes so bad. I'm in the market for a liquid one.Amanda Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09647880749146170062noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1250774476092306572.post-56527446386859224262010-08-04T11:17:00.000-07:002010-08-04T11:22:47.665-07:008 days post op.It's been 8 days since I had surgery and honestly, besides the incisions on my stomach I feel great. (They're just a little tender) I went back to doing normal routine on Monday. (Minus the gym of course, blah)<br />
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The first few days were a bit rough in the food department. I wasn't hungry, but I did crave foods simply because I couldn't have them. When I would make dinner for the family and have to turn around and pop in some chicken broth it was really disappointing. I want to say that really started to go away when I was able to start drinking cream coups.<br />
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I'm not usually hungry but I try to keep hydrated with drinks.<br />
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My mina things are<br />
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water<br />
v-8<br />
cream soup<br />
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Though sometimes I have crystal light, popsicles, jello & broth.<br />
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My start weight was 250, went into surgery at 237 and I am currently 228. 29 pounds until Onderland!<br />
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I attempted coffee yesterday and it wasn't bad. Quite enjoyable. :)<br />
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Here is a link to what my stomach looked like 3 days post-op. (Don't really want to post it, just look it you want to, lol.<br />
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<a href="http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae246/grrlnade/3dayspostopx.jpg">http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae246/grrlnade/3dayspostopx.jpg</a><br />
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The bruises under the belly button are from blood thinner shots. I have 6 incisions total.<br />
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In all reality I think I had a text book perfect surgery. I am so very fortunate. I go to see the doctor on the 11th for my 2 week check up.Amanda Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09647880749146170062noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1250774476092306572.post-24502248121378502212010-07-29T08:10:00.000-07:002010-07-29T08:10:58.642-07:00Being discharged todayIt's a good thing no one reads this since I never got around to updating ;).<br />
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I'm leaving the hospital in a few hours. It's a good and bad thing. Nice because I am going crazy in here. I miss my family terribly & the bed is NOT comfortable. But on the other hand, the quiet, sleeping in, and 'relaxing' I'm going to miss.<br />
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The pros outweigh the cons, here I come home :D.<br />
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My belly is still pretty swollen but the only pain now if from the incision sites ( small amount) and the gas.<br />
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I hope to be back to normal in a week or two!!Amanda Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09647880749146170062noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1250774476092306572.post-64653015320500022012010-07-27T04:10:00.000-07:002010-07-27T04:10:00.754-07:00I'm here!I'm here in my hospital bed waiting to talk to the anesthesiologist, will be on the table at 730 & will update as soon as I get into my resident room. <br /><br /><3 <br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/27/348.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/27/s_348.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Amanda<br />-- Post From My iPhone<br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Hospital%20&z=10'>Hospital </a></p>Amanda Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09647880749146170062noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1250774476092306572.post-64968526003347385132010-07-26T15:13:00.001-07:002010-07-26T15:13:43.805-07:0015 1/2 hours until I'm on the table.Well here I am, 15 1/2 hours before my surgery. I'm relaxing in a nice bubble bath before I get my hospital bag ready. <br /><br />I'm really sad I didn't post more about my pre-op diet. I think it would have been a huge help, but I've been busy catching up on work. <br /><br />I basically ate :<br /><br />Turkey, tuna, chicken, steak, mushrooms, peanut butter, lots of the Atkins Advantage drinks. (vanilla=no good!), isopure, cheese, EGGS, lunch meat, jello, broccoli, nuts, etc. <br /><br /><br />The Atkins chocolate shakes were good. <br /><br />Strawberry, decent.<br /><br />Vanilla, terrible. I can't drink a whole thing, ack. <br /><br />Isopure has 40g per drink! 0 carb. <br /><br />Fruit punch one, ew. Grape, not so bad. Can defiantly taste the protein. <br /><br />Today I've had water, crystal light(sugar-free), sugar-free jell-o, and chicken broth. I'm actually full, but I might drink a bit more water before bed tonight since I'll have to stop at 12.<br /><br />My husband was able to get a week off for my surgery but will not be able to be there with me. I'm a little nervous in that aspect.<br /><br />Well, here we go, tomorrow I will be on the losers bench! Ill be sure to update from the hospital :)<br /><br /><br /><br />Amanda<br />-- Post From My iPhone<br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Bath&z=10'>Bath</a></p>Amanda Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09647880749146170062noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1250774476092306572.post-753728298402029762010-07-13T08:42:00.000-07:002010-07-13T08:42:10.055-07:00Surgery pushed backSo it looks like my surgery has been pushed back. My doctor will be on call that day so she would not be the one doing my surgery, but would like to be the one.<br />
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My new Surgery date is July 27th, 2010 @ 730 in the morning. It looks like I'm back to day one on the pre-op diet. One good thing is that I was supposed to be visited by the annoying Aunt Flo on the day of my surgery. Being pushed back 5 days really helps in that aspect.<br />
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Also a friend from a few years back is coming to town and we've planned a get together/photo session :)<br />
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It sucks that it's further away, but kinda nice too.Amanda Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09647880749146170062noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1250774476092306572.post-58731562635845140212010-07-13T08:38:00.000-07:002010-07-13T08:38:14.243-07:00Meet my Doctor.<h1 style="color: #333333; font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;">Surgeons</h1><div style="font-family: tahoma, arial; font-size: 12px;"><img align="right" alt="" hspace="10" src="http://www.southwestbariatric.com/cms/r.aspx?u=../images/brucehead.jpg" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px;" /></div><h2 style="color: #1d314d; font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 0px;">Jinnie A. Bruce, M.D., FACS</h2><div style="font-family: tahoma, arial; font-size: 12px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0f396b;"><b><br />
</b></span></div><div style="font-family: tahoma, arial; font-size: 12px;"><span class="boldtext" style="color: #0f396b; font-family: tahoma, arial; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold;">Surgical Specialties</span><br />
A board-certified general surgeon, Dr. Bruce practiced for several years before pursuing a Fellowship in Minimally Invasive and Bariatric Surgery. She is experienced in addressing the full spectrum of surgical conditions, including breast and colon cancer, gallbladder disease, and endocrine conditions. In addition, her fellowship enhanced her skills in laparoscopic hernia repairs, partial gastrectomies, and other advanced laparoscopic procedures.<br />
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Dr. Bruce's fellowship had a focus on weight loss surgery and honed her skills in adjustable gastric banding, sleeve gastrectomy, and gastric bypass procedures.<br />
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<span class="boldtext" style="color: #0f396b; font-family: tahoma, arial; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold;">Education and Professional Associations</span><br />
Dr. Bruce has both a medical degree and a Masters in Public Health. She earned her M.D. degree and completed her General Surgery Residency at the Tulane University School of Medicine in New Orleans. While in medical school, she also earned her M.P.H. degree in Maternal and Child Health from the Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine in New Orleans. In addition, she holds a B.A. from Newcomb College in New Orleans.<br />
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After practicing as a general surgeon for several years in Louisiana, Dr. Bruce pursued a Fellowship in Minimally Invasive and Bariatric Surgery through the University of Texas at Houston.<br />
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She is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, a Diplomate of the American Board of Surgery, and a member of the Association of Women Surgeons and the Travis County Medical Society.<br />
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<span class="boldtext" style="color: #0f396b; font-family: tahoma, arial; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold;">Biography</span><br />
Dr. Bruce spends her free time traveling with her husband or immersing herself in a good book.</div>Amanda Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09647880749146170062noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1250774476092306572.post-87916820198102689722010-07-11T22:50:00.001-07:002010-07-11T22:50:46.950-07:00All systems goMy surgery was scheduled when I went to my pre-op appointment. July 22nd @ 12:00pm. Whoa! I'm on the pre-op diet, started it on Friday. <br /><br />It's a low carb/high protein diet. >30g carbs a day, 70g+ protein a day. <br /><br />I didn't thin it would be this hard. I think what's depressing about it is realizing how much my life revolved around food in the first place. It makes me happier to know that this is going to help me, but it's depressing at the same time. <br /><br />It's hard to explain how you really feel just typing, so don't feel bad if you don't understand. <br /><br />I started at 247 and weighed in at 241 today. I messed up a little bit today and I'm hoping to fall back into good habits tomorrow. <br /><br />I need to go and pick up all of my vitamins before my surgery so I planned to make a trip to GNC or the Post Exchange later this week. <br /><br />My husband has been very supportive, even doing the diet with me, with a little alteration. (he's lost 4 lbs already)<br /><br />I'm a little sad that I'm not getting support from some people I thought I would. It doesn't matter though I know why I'm doing this, even if they can't understand it. I'm doing it to be a healthier me, not for them. <br /><br /><br />I'll try to update a few more times before my surgery and I'll probably update while I'm in the hospital since I'll be there for 2 days. <br />Amanda<br />-- Post From My iPhone<br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Bed&z=10'>Bed</a></p>Amanda Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09647880749146170062noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1250774476092306572.post-31843985744859497572010-07-06T23:18:00.000-07:002010-07-06T23:18:01.887-07:00Dietitian appointment in 7 hours.I have my dietitian appointment in Austin in 7 hours. (I'm supposed to be awake in 3 hours, oops?) I am up late cleaning since husband is on leave from work, (He needed to use some days up or he was going to lose them.) I always stay up cleaning late when he's on leave since I know he'll get up with the kids. I love that man.<br />
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Anyhow, so I have my appointment with the dietitian tomorrow morning at 8:15AM (need to arrive 30 minutes early) but it's in Downtown Austin which normally takes na hour to get to without traffic. Seeing as it's midweek I'm going to hit traffic so I'm leaving at 5-530AM. If I get there early I can hit up a coffee shop and work on some work since I'll be bringing my laptop.<br />
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I went and got my blood work done Friday along with my Mental evaluation being re-faxed. I need to call the doctor's office and see if they got all of the faxes they need for me pre-op appointment at 3:15 PM tomorrow. The Military hospital here is famous for being slow & incomplete. if they don't fax it, they'll cancel my appointment, oh noes!<br />
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So anyhow, after my morning appointment with the dietitian I'll be all cleared at my pre-op appointment that day. Let's hope she sticks me on the pre-op diet Thursday.Amanda Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09647880749146170062noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1250774476092306572.post-20229989918258380292010-07-04T09:17:00.000-07:002010-07-04T09:17:51.872-07:00Gastric Bypass<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.obesity-surgery-center.com/images/roux-en-y_gastric_bypass.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.obesity-surgery-center.com/images/roux-en-y_gastric_bypass.gif" width="284" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12px;">Gastric Bypass Surgery via the Roux-en-Y is generally considered to be the best surgical procedure for the treatment of morbid obesity. Weight loss is achieved by reducing the functional portion of the stomach to a pouch one ounce or less in size, and by creating a stoma, a small opening between the stomach and the intestine.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 12px;"><br />
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<div style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12px;">The small size of the stomach pouch causes the patient to have a sensation of fullness after eating only a small portion of food. The small stoma delays stomach emptying, making the sensation of fullness last longer. These are called the Restrictive components of the procedure.</div><div style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12px;"><br />
</div><div style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12px;"><span style="color: #111111;"></span></div><div style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12px;">The limb of intestine coming down from the small pouch is called the Roux limb. The limb of intestine coming down from the bypassed portion of the stomach can be called the Biliary or Bypassed limb. The remaining portion of the intestine is called the Common Channel.</div><div style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12px;"><br />
</div><div align="left" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12px;"><span style="color: #111111; font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;">Fo</span>od does not pass down the Bypassed limb, only the Roux limb and the Common Channel. The longer the Bypassed limb, the less the length of intestine actively working to absorb nutrients from the food that is eaten. Digestive juices that normally help absorb nutrients from the food enter the Bypassed limb from the larger portion of the stomach, the liver, and the pancreas, and pass down the Bypassed limb to the Common Channel. These juices do not mix with the food while it is passing down the Roux limb. The longer the Roux limb, the longer the portion of intestine trying to absorb nutrients without the benefit of these digestive juices. Both of these changes result in less absorption of nutrients and contribute to weight loss, and are called the Malabsorptive components of the procedure.</div><div align="left" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12px;"><br />
</div><div align="left" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12px;">Exactly how the operation is done for an individual patient depends on their individual anatomy, their general health status, whatever changes they may have from prior surgeries, and what they hope to be achieve from the operation. The stomach compartments can be completely divided from each other or simply partitioned, the small stomach pouch and the intestinal limbs may be connected to each other with either staples or sutures, a small band may be placed around the stomach pouch, and the two intestinal limbs may be made longer or shorter.</div><div align="left" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12px;"><br />
</div><div align="left" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12px;">Patients will be on a clear liquid diet for the first few days immediately following gastric bypass surgery, and then advance to a pureed diet. These foods will be very soft, so as to pass through the small, newly formed pouch and stoma. One of the main issues during this period will be adequate fluid intake, and dehydration can be a problem for patients recovering from this surgery. We will ask patients to take in at least 32 ounces of liquid a day before leaving the Gastric Bypass Surgery Center.</div><div align="left" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12px;"><br />
</div><div align="left" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12px;">Approximately one month after the gastric bypass surgery the patients can expect to advance to a transitional diet. They begin to take more regular table foods, but will often still go back to eating the pureed foods that they have tolerated well. They will still be learning how to eat right, including chewing food carefully, learning to drink most of their liquids between rather than with meals, and learning that eating the wrong foods, such as sweets or fatty foods, can make them ill.<br />
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Patients experience the most rapid weight loss during this period. They are often thrilled to see the weight coming off, sometimes at the rate of 20 pounds a month, but it is not an easy time. Patients feel the loss of calories taken in, and are sometimes low in energy. Their small pouch will make them uncomfortable when they eat too much or too fast. They may have diarrhea, which can usually be controlled by avoiding certain foods or by taking medication. They may experience hair loss, though the hair usually begins to grow back within a few months.</div><div align="left" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12px;"><br />
</div><div align="left" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12px;">At 6 months after the gastric bypass surgery the patients will probably be on their long-term maintenance diet, which is more or less what and how they will eat for the rest of their lives. The maintenance diet for the most part consists of regular table foods, but in small portions. Most patients describe their meals as child sized, and they often do not finish what they are served. The patients generally become comfortable eating these small meals, and almost always say the loss of the ability to enjoy large meals or certain foods is more than compensated for by being able to successfully control their weight.<br />
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Patients may expect to lose approximately 70% of their excess body weight during the first 2 years following surgery. Sometimes a weight regain of about 10% is seen between years 2 and 5, perhaps because the small pouch increases several ounces in size, and perhaps because the patients learn how to take in extra calories without making themselves sick.<br />
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The surgical community involved in gastric bypass surgery is very concerned about this late 10% or any other weight regain. There is a national effort underway to keep patients involved in support groups and in follow-up with their doctors to reinforce what they had been taught after surgery, and what had worked for them the first 2 years. Long term success with this operation requires a team effort of both the patients and their doctors.</div><div align="left" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12px;"><br />
</div><div align="left" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12px;">Gastric Bypass Surgery patients take in less food and absorb less of what they take in, making them at risk for developing nutritional deficiencies. They must also make a life long commitment to taking vitamin, mineral, and possibly protein supplements, and may become very ill if they don't. These supplements will cost about $30.00 a month and can be purchased almost anywhere</div>Amanda Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09647880749146170062noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1250774476092306572.post-64142747242610843612010-07-02T12:45:00.001-07:002010-07-02T12:45:14.801-07:00All systems goI was in such disbelief when the clinic called me yesterday and told me Tricare had approved me. <br /><br />Today I:<br /><br />-had to go get my mental evaluation refaxed to them.<br /><br />-had to go print off the form to get my blood work redone and faxed to them.<br /><br />-scheduled my nutrition appointment for July 7th at 830 am in Austin. <br /><br />-scheduled my pre-op appointment for July 7th @ 315pm. <br /><br />Busy busy! If everything goes according to plan I could be looking at a surgery date before July is over. :) <br /><br />Will update more when my phone is not about to die! Lol. <br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Amanda<br />- From My iPhone<br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Living%20room&z=10'>Living room</a></p>Amanda Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09647880749146170062noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1250774476092306572.post-1234323719379487552010-06-25T21:40:00.001-07:002010-06-25T21:40:29.701-07:00Hopefully my last consultI drove to Round Rock yesterday for my consult with Dr.Bruce. She seems nice, I need to make a note to check her reviews over on lapbandtalk.com.<br /><br />My appointment was at 330pm so I left my House around 100pm. <br /><br />I got there with about 30 minutes to spare so I could do all of the paperwork. My best friend came along for the ride. <br /><br />I was pretty nervous about the visit since I was told over the phone tricare might decline my surgery.<br /><br />After I spoke with the doctor I felt a bit better. Se said medically I have some advantages to be approved. Never thought I'd like hearing that one lol. <br /><br />We decided on the Gastric bypass. I think the lap-band might be too much in the additional appointments and how you can cheat easily on it. <br /><br />After reviewing my medical history and asking me several questions like, <br />"does your lower back hurt?" <br />"do you get out of breath easily? <br />"how many flights of stairs can you climb before you're breathing hard" <br />"do you snore" <br />"do you have this this or this" lol. <br /><br />Some I answered yes to , some no. After speaking with her she said I shouldn't have too hard of a time getting tricare to approve it. <br /><br />I have to see a dietitian again, which will cost me &100.00. But other than that everything should be covered. <br /><br />She told me to give the paperwork waiting game 2 weeks. I should have a phone call by then with an approval or denial. After the dietitian appointment I'll start my 2 week liquid diet. <br /><br />I'm crossing my fingers for this one!<br />Amanda<br />-- Post From My iPhone<br />Amanda Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09647880749146170062noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1250774476092306572.post-39023812308107050092010-06-09T11:06:00.001-07:002010-07-04T08:29:03.264-07:00New hospital/Surgeonhttp://austinbariatric.com/default<br /><br />AIBL is a sole Bariatric facility. I called them today after speaking with the General Surgery nurse at Darnall.<br /><br />She told me to find a place with a Shorter wait time then call tricare. I did and found Dr. Ganta. They told me that there is no wait list & since I already have some of the pre-op stuff done that they'll accept i should be able to start my 2 week pre-op diet before June is over.<br /><br />Called tricare and it was super easy to get it switched! So now I just play the waiting game for the new office for all of my insurance paperwork to be done. (she said to expect a call within 4 days).<br /><br />I'm still not 100% on which one I want yet. Sleeve or bypass. Why can't the decision be easy? Lol.<br /><br />Amanda<br />-- Post From My iPhoneAmanda Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09647880749146170062noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1250774476092306572.post-67805068685048718072010-06-08T21:17:00.001-07:002010-06-08T21:20:44.991-07:00At the S&W seminarI attended the Scott & White Bariatric Seminar this evening. I'm a bit dissapointed to say at the least.<br /><br />On the phone I was told I would most like have the surgery at the end of the month or the first week of July. After the seminar the staff told me there already booked up until mid August.<br /><br />Also, he went over all of the types again. Lap-band, sleeve, bypass and I'm leaning more towards the sleeve or bypass now.<br /><br />The lap-band is ideal except for the lifelong doctor visits.<br /><br />I'm going to call the surgery clinic on post tomorrow and see what the wait times are for the sleeve and bypass.<br /><br />I'd like the sleeve since it's only cutting the majority of my stomach. We'll see. Lots more research to do.<br /><br />*sigh* I had high hopes of having it done before my daughter's 2nd Birthday.<br /><br />I feel like I'm back at step 1.<br /><br /><br /><br />Amanda<br />-- Post From My iPhone<br /><p class="blogpress_location">Location:<a href="http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Killeen%20Civic%20Center&z=10">Killeen Civic Center</a></p>Amanda Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09647880749146170062noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1250774476092306572.post-10363187520018975842010-06-05T07:14:00.000-07:002010-06-05T07:33:35.364-07:00So is having lap-band cheating?This is a question I'm sure a lot of people think of often when choosing weight loss surgery. You may even get remarks from friends and family about it being the "easy way out". So tell me, what exactly is easy about major surgery and changing your lifestyle? Well to me, not a damn thing.<br /><br />I'll admit, when I first went in to talk to my doctor about weight loss surgery I felt SO guilty. It was like I was asking to cheat on an exam. I actually started to cry when I told her I felt like I was failing and I was a cheater for considering it.<br /><br />Then my amazing, yes I love this doctor, explained one very simple truth to me. <b>Not everyone is the same. </b>That really struck a cord for me. No, not everyone is the same. People grow up differently, have different metabolisms, are taught eating habits different ways, some have medical problems, and some don't.<div><br /></div><div>There are people with no obesity in their family line and people with a very long mine of obesity in their family. So when you break it down some people have more advantages over other people. </div><div><br /></div><div>Can I lose the weight without the lap-band? Yes, is it effective? No. While I've lost weight in the past it wasn't by any means healthy. About the only healthy thing I was doing was exercising like crazy. Other than that I was eating little to no food. </div><div><br /></div><div>So why am I having WLS? To be healthy. It will help me with portion control so I can still eat and enjoy life. Lap-band is a TOOL, just like any other tool, it's not effective unless you use it correctly. </div><div><br /></div><div>So are people who have WLS cheating? No. You've found a medical advancement that is going to change your life, for the better, and you're ready to step up to the plate and relearn your life with food.</div><div><br /></div><div>When someone treats you like it's cheating, remind them, not everyone is the same. And don't forget, you're doing this to become a healthier YOU. Don't let anyone try to tear you down for that. </div>Amanda Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09647880749146170062noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1250774476092306572.post-29191009222481053652010-05-26T11:56:00.000-07:002010-05-26T12:03:12.417-07:00More SeminarsBoo, so S&W will accept most of my things, but not the seminar. I have to redo that one on the 8th of June in Killeen. After that is done I have to submit a form to have al of my records faxed to their office. She said I probably won't see a nurse until the end of June, then it's just a time game after that. I am hoping by the end of July I'll be good to go.Amanda Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09647880749146170062noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1250774476092306572.post-65565413554001507612010-05-26T08:17:00.001-07:002010-05-26T12:04:43.399-07:00Good news!Tricare approved my refferal! I'm just waiting for a return phone call from the surgery clinic to get some of my questions answered. Questions like.<br /><br />I've already done the seminar, nutrition, & mental evaluation, will I have to do it again for the new hospital?<br /><br />How soon before I can start the pre-op process?<br /><br />Oh man, good news!<br /><br /><br />Amanda<br />-- Post From My iPhoneAmanda Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09647880749146170062noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1250774476092306572.post-11327806184262483312010-05-24T13:14:00.000-07:002010-05-24T13:15:46.693-07:00Referral problems<p class="MsoNormal">I’m a bit disappointed. I’ve been waiting on the referral for an off post doctor to come in and I finally made a few more phone calls because it’s taken way longer then they say it would. <span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Needless to say, the referral never made it to the referral center to be dispatched out to the insurance company. </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Thanks to some nice ladies on the phone I was able to get another referral submitted and calling the referral center back right afterwards, I was able to get it submitted to the insurance today. While on the phone the lady told me I did not quality according to the standards they use for off post. I was 5 pounds under the cut off. Funny enough I weigh 5 pounds more than I do during the initial weight check. <span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I asked if I could go back in and be weighed again and have the referral resubmitted. After a little hesitation she told me it was only a couple of pounds and submitted it for me anyhow. Let’s hope Tricare doesn’t still try to deny it. </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I’m going to call Tricare tomorrow and see if they can speed up my referral since I’d be on the phone with them. </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">A friend of mine just got the lap-band last week and I am feeling very sad that I’m still waiting. I’m also a little jealous.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>(Stupid, I know.) She’s already beginning her journey, and I’m still just sitting on the sidelines waiting. </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Have I mentioned I loved my gym? Gold’s Gym has been a great investment for me.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I’m not using it as much as I should be right<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>now because I’m a little fearful that if I lose to much weight I’ll be declined <span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>.I keep telling myself, if I lose enough to be declined maybe I just don’t even need the WLS then. Then I think about it, and I know it isn’t true because I’ve been TRYING to lose it on my own, I just need a little help to get it started. I think the lap-band will be good because it will be like a coach, and a helpful reminder not to overdo it. <span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Once I have the surgery I plan on jumping right back into the gym hardcore. I will not have any reason not to. I love going, and seeing the results will keep me going. I am so excited for the changes that will be coming this year. </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p>Amanda Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09647880749146170062noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1250774476092306572.post-69557522516638628162010-05-15T06:54:00.000-07:002010-05-15T14:29:48.646-07:00Set back...I took my mental evaluation to the hospital's General Surgery clinic yesterday afternoon to be put on the waiting list my final step before my pre-op diet) and got some good and bad news. <div><br /></div><div>Good news , I'm number 10 on the lap-band list. The bad news.. all of the surgeons that do the lap-band are deploying until September. So I'm either at a stand still until September when they start taking patients again, or I can try my luck off post. </div><div><br /></div><div>So I asked if I could be referred off post to Scott & White in Temple, Texas. They will put the referral in on monday, but there is no guarantee that I will be approved or denied since they use different standards. (Height and weight & co morbidity) vs. BMI & co mobility. Pretty much after the referral is submitted I wait 2 weeks. If i do not get a call from them, I call Tricare and see what's the hold up. If' I'm approved I go along with that, and I'm not sure if i have to start over what I've done. </div><div><br /></div><div>If I'm declined, I'm still on the waiting list for September. So here we go..</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Amanda Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09647880749146170062noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1250774476092306572.post-36060392014201951482010-05-12T08:22:00.000-07:002010-05-12T08:27:54.635-07:00A little sad.I got an e-mail from an Army recruiter late last night...<div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" border-collapse: collapse; font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;">Amanda,<br /><br />Thank you for your interest in the United States Army.<br /><br />I regret to inform you that the surgery you had does disqualify you from<br />enlistment.<br /><br />If you have further questions please ask me.<br /><br />Respectfully,<br /><br />J***** M. K****, contractor<br />Cyber Recruiter<br />U.S. Army Recruiting Command<br />MPRI<br />******<a href="mailto:goarmy@usarec.army.mil" style="color: rgb(148, 46, 6); ">@usarec.army.mil</a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size:13px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size:13px;">A bit disappointing since I really wanted to join the Army. (Part of the reason I decided to get this surgery, but alas, it makes me not eligible. I took a step back and reconsidered having the surgery, but really? If I haven't been able to lose the weight on my own yet, what makes me think I can do it now?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size:13px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size:13px;">I'm just going to have to think of something else with my life. I really need to be healthy first. </span></span></div>Amanda Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09647880749146170062noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1250774476092306572.post-27922621795974882452010-05-10T20:19:00.000-07:002010-05-12T08:21:57.628-07:00Random thoughts.I think I’m finally coming around to not feeling so guilty for having weight loss surgery. (side note: It’s finally dawned on me, that I am APPROVED, and just waiting. Just waiting for my turn on the list) But yes, in the beginning I felt sooo guilty for “failing” at losing the weight myself. I felt like I was a big fat loser. I still do sometimes, but I’m getting excited about the possibility of being a small person in the gym. I’m excited about my acne clearing up, excited about fitting in average sized clothing, excited about people looking at my because I look good, not because I look big.<br /><br />I’m excited about running up my stairs and my knees not hurting. I’m excited about getting pictures taken, and not trying to dodge out of them. I’m excited about finally keeping a “family album” instead of a pictures of “everyone but mom album”.<br /><br />I am really excited to get my life back. At least modify it to the way I want it. I keep “window” shopping for normal sized clothing. Thinking about sitting a savings account aside for “ after” clothing. I have been wanting to buy new summer clothing since I don’t fit anything from last year. (30lbs lighter) but I don’t want to buy anything big anymore.<br /><br />I am a little sad about the surgery though. I figured this would be so, but I am so sad that is will disqualify me to ever join the Military. I guess there are worse things in the world. Just a little disappointed is all.<br /><br />I promise to update with pictures and measurements once I get put on the waiting list. Until then, I’m just another blog on the internet.<br /><br />-A.Amanda Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09647880749146170062noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1250774476092306572.post-892594553725865442010-05-08T21:46:00.001-07:002010-05-08T21:46:45.104-07:00My mental evaluationMy mental evaluation was on Thursday. Honestly, it was a breeze. They told me it should take 2-3 hours and I filled out my patient information, saw the therapist and took thier 370 questionaire to caculate my personality in 1 hour and 15 minutes. <br /><br />The doctor said my results should be back by Wednesday and I can pick them up and bring them to General Surgery to be put on the waiting list. <br /><br />I am SO ready. Before I was nervous, now I'm just ready to start the change for my life. I cannot stop researching about it, looking at clothes I havn't fit in years, getting excited about being fit, even silly things like how good I'll look skinny, tan and in a yellow tankini.<br /><br />I know that it's going to take a while but my hope is to be a new person for 2011.<br /><br />My knees have been hurting a lot lately. I'm sure it's no mystry to why Thats happening after I've gained so much weight. :(. <br /><br />I want this to hurry up so I can start seeing results at the gym! <br /><br />I know all my reasons sound vain right now but I can't help but be excited about the superficial physical things too!<br /><br />Well just blogging to let whoever reads this know I'm one step closer. :) <br /><br /><br />Amanda B.<br />-- Post From My iPhone<br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Bath%20:)&z=10'>Bath :)</a></p>Amanda Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09647880749146170062noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1250774476092306572.post-21636640113335999472010-05-04T09:18:00.000-07:002010-05-04T09:24:22.883-07:00Got my appointment!My psychiatric evaluation for treatment appointment is scheduled for Thursday! After I do that appointment it takes about a week to get the results back. Once I got it back I can bring it to General Surgery where they will put me in the list.<br /><br />They normally commit a 1-2 days a month to each type of Surgery. Hopefully it won't be as long as I'm dreading it to be. I'll try to update after my appointment on Thursday.Amanda Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09647880749146170062noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1250774476092306572.post-65524805582980427932010-04-26T16:00:00.000-07:002010-05-04T09:12:27.383-07:00I feel like I'm always at the doctor.I went to my PCM for my yearly Pap and for her to check my IUD (birth control) placement, to get my test results back, and to have her submit my referral. <br /><br />Everything checks out well, and MY Diabetes tests came back normal! So I don’t have diabetes yet! She submitted my referral and said I should be getting a phone call to set up an appointment. <br /><br />Today is a great day :)!Amanda Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09647880749146170062noreply@blogger.com0