December 18, 2003
My wife began the process of making the necessary appointments for me. (I think it is a guy thing!) My initial appointment with Dr. Elias was going to be in early February. However, his office called back and said that they had a cancellation and that I could meet with the Doctor in 5 days! My appointment with the Dietician and Psychiatrist are scheduled for mid January.

December 23, 2003
I met with Dr. Elias. The visit went very well. Dr. Elias was very thorough in his explanation of the RNY (Roux-en-Y) (Lap) surgery, the benefits as well as the risks. He reviewed my list of medications and we discussed each of them. I had already obtained a short 2 sentence letter from my PCP that I gave to Dr. Elias. The brief letter was not going to be enough for the insurance company. Dr. Elias gave me a standard form that he wanted me to have filled out by my PCP. This is when I started to become very nervous. Let’s just say that my PCP is not an advocate of WLS of any type. That is why I only got a two line letter as a result of my first request. None the less, getting this form completed was a necessary step in my journey. After my lengthy visit with Dr. Elias, I immediately drove to my PCP’s office in hopes that someone was still there. I got lucky! I already knew that my PCP was not going sing the praises of WLS. But upon discussing the form with the receptionist, I could tell that she must have crossed this bridge before. Let’s just say that she had some negativity in her voice about my chances of getting my PCP to complete the form. However, she did say that she would do everything that she could to help and to expedite the process. She also said that she should know something by 7:30am the next morning and that she would call me at home. Needless to say, I didn't get much sleep.

December 24, 2003
True to her word, I got a phone call shortly after 7:30am. The news was good! My PCP had completed the form! His receptionist also faxed a copy to Dr. Elias' office. This was another big step completed in this journey. Christmas eve and Christmas day would truly be more enjoyable now.
One of the toughest challenges that I have at this point is keeping this information "under my hat". I don't want to deal with any negativity from the unknowing!


January 1, 2004
Happy New Years! Starting a diet on January 1st isn't new to anyone. However, I started my "Modified Atkins" diet today. I am going to try to reduce my weight before the surgery. As strange as this might sound, right now, I have no desire to pig-out on my favorites. I guess after 48+ years of enjoying the evils that are truly trying to kill me, I have no desire at this point to give in any more. I'm guessing this is a good thing!

January 12, 2004
Today I met with the Dietician. I couldn't believe that I was actually more nervous meeting a Dietician than I was meeting a Surgeon! I think it had a lot to do with the letters DIET in her title. She couldn't have been any nicer. What made the visit even more interesting was the fact that one of her daughters has had WLS and another of her daughters is scheduled for WLS. She seemed to truly understand what I have been through. She gave me a 4 page outline of my restrictions and menu allowances for the first 4 weeks after surgery. She was very thorough in her approach. She also reviewed my current daily food intake. Since I started my "Modified Atkins" 12 days ago, there wasn't much of a problem with my current diet. She said that I was an excellent candidate for the WLS and would forward her findings to Dr. Elias' office ASAP. Another necessary step in the journey is now completed. In two days, I see the Psychiatrist.

January 14, 2004
Did you ever go down a one way street and wonder why everyone else was going in the opposite direction? For years I've been saying that they were wrong and I was right! Now I have proof. This morning, I had my insurance required visit with the Psychiatrist. The Psychiatrist is going to certify me as "normal" and a good candidate for the surgery! Geez, I hope he didn't mean brain surgery!

January 19, 2004
I called the doctor's office this morning to make sure they had all the necessary paperwork for the insurance company. My file was checked, and I was told that they now have everything and would contact BC/BS immediately. Within 1 hour we had approval! My surgery date is set for March 10th 2004!

January 29, 2004
Today, I officially became a member of the OH HTML Team. I will be helping members spruce up their profiles. Oh, another fine mess I've gotten myself into!
Again, another tough month trying to keep all this information "under my hat". It is human nature to want to share exciting information with family, friends, and co-workers. It has been tough, especially around the house!
I still don't want to deal with any negativity from the unknowing!


February 12, 2004
It is now less than 4 weeks until surgery. I've been keeping so busy; I don't think I have time to get nervous yet. I have been designing and creating profiles for other OH members. I am also very busy with a remodeling project at home. Combine those two with my work schedule and you can see that I have kept my mind pre-occupied. Things will "heat-up" this weekend. The next two Saturdays, I am scheduled at the Blood Bank to store my own blood for the surgery. In addition, on Friday February 27th, I am scheduled for all of my pre-op testing.

February 14, 2004
One pint "down", one to go!

February 21, 2004
I am now one quart down! Feeling a bit tired from all the "banking".

February 27, 2004
Today I went for all of my pre-op testing. The people at Mercy/Jeannette Hospital were great. I got there for 8am and was driving home at 11:30am. I went through admissions and the short stay unit for paperwork completion. I had my gallbladder ultra sound, chest x-ray, upper gi, EKG, blood work, and my pulmonary test. Only 12 days until surgery!

February has been the toughest month yet! Trying to keep all this information "under my hat" has been very difficult, especially with so many plans to make.

 I have lost count of how many times I almost had a slip of the tongue around family, friends, and co-workers. It has been especially tough around the house! Soon, I won't care who finds out! Another thing that has made silence so difficult is the fact that my sister-in-law is having WLS one week before me and I don't want my wife telling anyone about my WLS, including her family, just yet. I think we will discuss my surgery with my sister-in-law this weekend.


March 5, 2004
Today was a very "informative" day! I had to meet with my employees and break the news to them. We worked out a schedule assuming that I would be absent for 4 weeks. More importantly, my 2 daughters and my sister were informed of my surgery! Less than 5 days remain!

March 9, 2004
Well, tomorrow is the big day! Surgery is scheduled for 8:30am, but I need to be in admissions at 6:30am. Yesterday and today have been spent around the house, because I can't roam more than 15 feet from the toilet! This 48 hour prep and clear liquids that Dr. Elias has ordered is keeping Scott Toilet tissue a rollin! I am also keeping my mind occupied by completing more profiles for other AMOS members.

March 12, 2004
My surgery was on Wednesday March 10th. According to Dr. Elias, everything went well and I have no reason to doubt that assessment. I have never had surgery before, so for me, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday were 3 of the worst days of my life! There is just no way to get comfortable or to get any rest when you are in a hospital. I couldn't wait to go home. As luck would have it, Dr Elias was in surgery until late today, thus I didn't get released until about 7:30pm.

March 14, 2004
I have been sleeping in my recliner for the past 2 nights. I tried the bed...... no way! Each day gets a bit better. Last evening, Cindy and I went to Target just to walk and get some exercise........ I definitely didn't win any race. When I heard "clean-up in aisle 5", I thought they were coming after me! We are going to walk again this evening and since Target is open until 9pm on Sundays........ "another clean-up in aisle 5!"

March 19, 2004
The last 2 nights I have been able to rest in bed. My sleep pattern is somewhat a question. I can't put together more than 1.5 to 2.0 hours of continuous sleep during the night. I hope that will soon change. My energy level is good. I have been walking at the mall for the past 5 days. Each day, I go a bit farther and a bit faster. I have had no nausea or vomiting...... which is a good thing. Surprisingly, I'm doing well with the clear liquid diet. I start the puree' next Wednesday..... I can't wait. The staples were removed at the doctor's office today and the drain pulled half way out. I am to remove the drain entirely tomorrow. I know each day will be different. But, if I have already gone through the worst part of this journey with nothing but good results, I can't wait for what tomorrow holds for me. I have resumed working on other AMOS member profiles. I hope my work makes someone smile......... there is very little satisfaction in this non-face-to-face volunteer work.

March 30, 2004
When I went into the hospital, one of my goals was to get myself back into condition so that I could attend the NASCAR races in Bristol TN on Saturday March 27 and Sunday March 28th. That was 17 days after my surgery! I just got back from Bristol........... had a great time. We park about 1 mile from the track. Walking was no problem. In fact, I think that it did a lot of good for me..... both mentally and physically. The first 14 days after surgery, I had diarrhea. That problem disappeared almost immediately after beginning the puree proteins. My sleep pattern returned to normal after the drain tube was removed. I have not had any nausea or vomiting since surgery. I am following the doctor's recommendations and rules. I have not experienced any foods or drinks that I did not like and have noticed no changes in my sense of taste yet. My jeans are very loose. Thank god I kept my smaller clothing as I began to grow! I go back to Dr. Elias for my 2nd visit tomorrow. I am going to return to work on April 5th. So far, life is good!


April 14, 2004
I returned to work on Monday April 5th. Because of the upcoming Easter holiday, it was only a 3 day week. That was a good thing because Monday and Wednesday I also taught my computer classes in the evening. Tuesday April 6th……….. Happy Birthday to me! On Thursday April 8th, I purchased 2 gray cockatiels and a very nice cage for their home. When people ask me why I bought the birds, I tell them it was a result of the anesthesia. I did very well on Easter Sunday. I did not indulge in the evils that were available. The weight is coming off slow, but is coming off. I am down 2 pant sizes already. I am feeling great. I think a lot of that comes from being able to get off all the prescription medicines I was taking prior to surgery. Now I take my synthroid, my Flinstones vitamin, and a Tums every day. Three pills/vitamins per day versus the 17 pills/vitamins prior to surgery! For that reason alone, the surgery was worth having.

April 30, 2004
Today I feel great! I'm down 55 pounds! I haven't been walking as much as I should. My fibramyalgia has flared up for the past couple of weeks and I don't want to aggravate the situation. Soon..... very soon, I will be moving into another size pants (for the 3rd time) and shirts. It is such a great feeling to be putting on smaller clothing instead of needing to find larger stuff that fits. I still have had no negative effects from the surgery. Since about 3 to 4 weeks out, I haven't had any soreness, discomfort, or any surgery related aches! I have been able to eat everything that I have tried. I am still keeping my portions at the 1 ounce level as instructed by Dr. Elias. I do have some sugar free pudding and jello between meals. In the morning, I have a large glass of orange juice, and a large cup of coffee. I don't eat my breakfast until about 10:30 or 11:00am. In the evening, I enjoy a large glass of tomato juice or some cream of wheat in a small bowl. I would like to lose another 85 pounds. That is my goal.


May 10, 2004
Minus 62! Nothing drastically new since my last update. My fibramyalgia is still giving me problems! I'm not able to walk as much as I would like. It is amazing how food is no longer a priority or concern in my life. There are days that I need to remind myself to eat! I had my visit with Dr. Elias last Wednesday. Both he and I are pleased with my progress. He encouraged me to continue to go to the support group meetings on the 3rd Wednesday of every month. Because of my work schedule, I was unable to attend the April meeting and I will miss the May meeting. I think my schedule is clear for the June 16th meeting....... I plan on going!

May 23, 2004
Minus 67! My fibramyalgia is a bit better!


June 9, 2004
Minus 75! I have set some personal goals and goal dates. I am a bit ahead of schedule. At this point in time, I wanted to be down at least 70 pounds. I have now adjusted my other goal numbers and goal dates accordingly. We are going on a family vacation to Ocean City MD in early August. I want to be down another 25 pounds by then. I am still having no complications. I had my visit with Lora at Dr. Elias' office this past Monday. They are as pleased as I am pleased. Eating habits are still good. The support group meeting has been moved to June 23 this month...... I still plan to attend. My blood work still looks good. Lora suggested that I might want to look into getting a chewable iron pill that is flavored to increase a couple of my blood levels. I will look into it.


July 8, 2004
Down 87! Wow! I had my visit with Dr. Elias yesterday. Doc wants me to start taking iron pills twice a day to build some of my blood levels. I am slightly anemic! That helps explain why I have been a bit tired during the mid afternoon. I thought that perhaps it had a little to do with the slight decrease in my synthroid medication……….. and it might still be the cause. I had some iron pills at home. I was taking them prior to surgery since I “banked” 2 pints of my own blood for the surgery. I started the iron pills immediately. My PCP will be drawing blood on July 29th. We will check the blood levels again. I am still having no complications from the surgery…… and that is definitely a good thing! No junk foods………. no problem! I have not really had a problem craving anything in particular. Cindy and I attended Dr. Elias’ monthly support group meeting on Wednesday June 23rd. The next meeting is on Wednesday July 21st. My schedule appears to be clear for that evening. Thus I plan on attending. I think that it is important to go as often as possible. Anyone thinking about the surgery should attend. It is open to the public. Bring a friend….. bring a family member or two! I now have a personal goal to lose 13 more pounds before August 5th. That would give me a total of 100 lost the day I leave for Ocean City MD. I have found that setting these incremental goals has helped me keep focused. I have found that it is true that the brain takes a bit longer to catch up with the body! I know that I have lost 87 pounds, gone from size 56 pants to size 44 pants, gone from 18 ½” shirts to 17” shirts, and so on. But, when I look in the mirror, I still see all the negatives! The brain hasn’t kicked in yet. I still feel that all eyes are on the “fat guy” everywhere I go. I still want to turn sideways to enter a tight spot when it really isn’t necessary any longer. I know the brain will kick in sooner or later. It is hard to retrain the brain after being over weight for soooooo many years. I am somewhat surprised that there aren’t many comments about my weight loss. Maybe those that know me are afraid to say anything since I have always been very sensitive about my weight. Maybe the lack of comments is also reinforcing my brains slow transition to a smaller body. Oh well, down 87, and only 53 more to go (another personal goal)!

July 26, 2004
"Things" were moving a bit "slowly" until this weekend. After my last update, the scale was getting a bit testy with me.......... it wouldn't move! I am now down 94 pounds! I'm not certain that I'm going to hit my goal of 100 before we leave for Ocean City MD in 10 days. I would need to lose 6 pounds....... hmmmmm......... I'll do my part......... but it's the darn scale that bothers me! Cindy and I went to the support group meeting last week. Once again, it has helped me to stay focused. Maybe that is why I lost some weight over the weekend? Cindy was once again searching in the attic for more of my "hopefuls". Those were the clothes that I outgrew and stored away "hoping" to one day to be able to wear them again. It is a good thing that men's pants and shirts haven't changed much in styles and colors! Ok, time to go eat my Carb Countdown yogurt!


August 11, 2004
I should be happy, but I'm not! I didn't make my goal of -100 before leaving for Ocean City. Worse yet, I'm stuck and have not lost any weight for about 10 days! I did a lot of walking on the boardwalk in OC, but still no help. I go to see Dr. Elias this afternoon. I think I have lost 9 pounds since my last visit. Again, I should be happy, but I'm not..... I guess it is because I want to reach the -100 mark so bad. My blood work came back to my new PCP. Everything looks great! The iron pills have helped my anemia problem, but have had a negative effect on my "throne" visits! My eating habits are still good! I was well behaved in OC. I plan on attending this months support group meeting on Wednesday August 18th. There is going to be a professional speaker. Her name is Barbara Thompson. She has had weight loss surgery and is the author of "Weight Loss Surgery: Finding The Thin Person Hiding Inside You." This might be the last meeting that I can attend for a few months. I am scheduled to teach one of my classes on Wednesday nights. Hopefully, one of our semester breaks will include a meeting night!

August 18, 2004

September 10, 2004
Today is my 6 month anniversary! I'm now down a total of 109 pounds and feeling better every day! We are getting ready early this AM to leave for a National Car Show........ thus, I will continue this update when I return.


October 6, 2004
It has been awhile since I last updated…… been to Asheboro NC, Dublin OH, Carlisle PA, and leaving Thursday night for Hershey PA. I’m down 116 pounds! For the past three weeks, the weight has been coming off a bit slower. I’m not really at a total standstill, just not losing as fast right now. Prior to surgery, I would have been very happy to have lost 5 pounds in three weeks. I want to lose another 24 pounds for my personal goal. Dr. Elias wants me to lose about another 34 pounds………… I hope so, but we will see. Because of my teaching schedule during this current fall semester, I was not able to make the September support group meeting and I won’t be able to attend this month. Darn work is always getting in the way! If it wasn’t for the money and benefits, I probably wouldn’t go to work! Because of all the travel, and because my new Timneh African Grey parrot requires 2 hand feedings a day, I haven’t had much time to do any OH member profiles. I will continue the profiles next week after returning from Hershey. I’m getting my exercise in spurts……. not exactly as it should be done. I need to find time for myself. I’m not a morning person, never was, never will be…. and yes, I know never is a long time. Winter is setting in and the daylight is getting shorter each day. That kinda makes walking at night a bit tougher. I have a Walk-fit at home, but it hurts my knees too much. I will find a solution! I go to Dr Elias next Wednesday. According to my scale (totally unclothed), I am below 200 pounds. But according to Doc’s scale, right now I’m probably 2.5 to 3 pounds from hitting the 199 mark. I have 1 week to get the scale moving in the right direction. It will feel sooooooo good to move that big weight on the scale one more slot to the left.

October 13, 2004
This is too cool....... I had my appointment today at Dr. Elias' office....... I'm in "ONEDERLAND"... I'm at 199! First time below 200 in over 22 years!


November 1, 2004
My students are taking an exam this evening. It gives me a bit of time to reflect and share some thoughts. The mind still has not totally caught up with the new body. As the weight loss begins to slow, the mind is able to play “catch up”. I have gone from a size 56 pants to a size 38 with a little give in the sides. When I go to put my leg in my pants, my mind still says to me “you’ll never get your fat butt in here”…. But somehow I do. There is an auto parts store in our area with a “turnstile” at the entrance… I still turn sideways when I enter. Washing my feet and toes in the shower isn’t a major undertaking. I can actually sit behind the wheel of my Monte Carlos without the steering wheel touching my stomach. It is actually funny when people don’t recognize me. We have an outside contractor at work that does roofing work at our building about twice a year. He always recognizes me and calls me by name. The other day, he was standing in my office as I came out of the restroom. He looked at me and asked if John was around. It didn’t hit him until I began to talk and laugh. The weight loss has slowed a lot. I’m still losing, but not as fast. I knew that this would happen. I just kinda hoped it would happen a bit later. As of today, I’m down 121 pounds. I have 19 more pounds to lose for my personal goal. My eating habits are still good. I don’t cheat…. And really have no desire to cheat. The couple of times I “bent” the rules very slightly, I had a bad reaction each time. I don’t like the feeling… thus, it isn’t worth “bending” the rules. I need to make time for more of the “E” word….. (exercise). It is hard to change 49 years of bad routine….. But I need to do it. I haven’t been able to attend any of the monthly support group meetings since this semester started. The next meeting that I will be able to attend will be in December. I have requested teaching assignments that do not include a Wednesday night during the next semester. I want and need to go to the meetings. I encourage all “thinkers”, “pre-ops”, and “post-ops” to attend the meetings. I strongly think that they help. My next appointment with Dr. Elias is on November 17th. The last two visits, he was delayed in surgery. Thus, I met with Lora. She does a great job, but I would really like to see Doc this month.

November 17, 2004
Today was both exciting and full of uncertainty. I had my regular appointment with Dr. Elias this afternoon. Everything went very well. He is very pleased with my progress and weight loss. Yippy, I lost another 9 pounds since my last visit. I’m now down 126 pounds! During my visit, we discussed goal weights…… his and mine. I am going to lose another 14 pounds. Doc suggested that I should lose another 20 to 25 pounds. That would be great…….. we will see. The “full of uncertainty” came when Doc and I discussed possible "tummy tuck" surgery……….. possibly in January! Wow, I didn’t expect this step for at least another year. Of course, it is always my choice as to if and when. Doc took the necessary Polaroid photos, and his office staff is going to submit the photos and letter of request to my insurance company seeking approval. It is exciting to be this far along in my journey in such a short time. I’m only 8 months out! I just need to mentally prepare for what possibly lies ahead.

November 26, 2004
The day after Thanksgiving...... and I lost another pound! When is the last time I lost weight during Thanksgiving.... probably never! Down 129....... 11 more to go!

November 29, 2004
OK, now that I have caught my breath and my head and heart have slowed a bit, I'll share a part of my afternoon.............. I got a phone call at 5:30 today from Dr. Elias' office, I'm having the "tummy tuck" on Thursday, December 9th........... 10 days from today! Of course the option and timing are still my choice to say yes or no.......... I want to do it ASAP. Christmas is coming and there seems to be soooo much to do at this time of the year. I won't have a lot of time to mentally prepare for this surgery. Right now, I think I'm more nervous about this surgery than I was about having the gastric bypass surgery! By the way........ I'm down some more........ now down 130 pounds and finally considered "overweight"! (I hope Doc can eliminate about another 10 pounds with his scalpel!!!)


December 3, 2004
I had another appointment with Dr. Elias today. He discussed the "tummy tuck" procedure in full detail. I am scheduled for surgery on Thursday December 9th. My bloodwork was also done today. I'm now down 131 pounds! I will lose at least another 9 pounds on my own to hit my personal goal. I'm still hoping Doc eliminates another 10 pounds during the surgery!

I also found out today that the December Support Group meeting is cancelled!!! See ya in January!

December 9, 2004
Today is "big day" number two. I don't need to be at the hospital until Noon. My surgery is scheduled for 1:30. No food or drink since 10pm last night. I miss my morning orange juice and coffee! All is good.... I have less than 2 hours before we leave for the hospital.

December 12, 2004
I'm finally getting a chance to update my profile since my "tummy tuck" surgery 3 days ago. I'm very sore, but I expected this. I have been able to sleep in my bed at night. I won't be getting the 2 drain tubes out until Monday. I have a 17" incision from my breast bone to my, my, my, my, oh my God, I'm glad Doc has a steady hand! I also have an 18 1/2" incision across my pelvic area. 100 staples!!! I actually weigh more now than before surgery. I'm guessing it is due to all of the swelling and fluid retention. They kept pumping bags of IV fluid into me at the hospital. What was supposed to be an outpatient procedure turned into a 29 hour stay at the hospital. My surgery was scheduled for 1:30 in the afternoon. They were pretty much on schedule. But, when I woke up in recovery, I had a lot of pain and nausea. Even though the surgery went well, Doc wanted to keep me overnight for observation. I'm glad he did. The next day, Doc didn't get a chance to see me until shortly after 3pm. I was discharged, and home by 4:30pm.

December 13, 2004
Today, I got the drain tubes removed. No more gauze and no more tape, just 100 staples that need to be removed next Monday. I also found out today that 2307 grams of excess skin was removed. That is equivalent to 5.09 pounds. I was hoping for 10 pounds, but felt that was a bit optimistic. Either way, I’m satisfied with the new look.

December 15, 2004
I’m now down 134 pounds! However, that still means that I’m carrying extra weight resulting from the trauma caused by surgery. The swelling is slowly being reduced. Today, I’m moving around a little bit better. I’m sleeping in bed, however, getting comfortable, turning, and getting in and out of bed is somewhat uncomfortable. Since the pelvic staples go from hip to hip, sleeping on my side (which is normal for me) is difficult because the staples are compressed and begin to hurt. Knowing what I know now, and seeing what I see now, I would still have the “tummy tuck” done in a heartbeat. There has not been any second guessing on my decision. Even when I sneezed at 1:05am this morning….. I thought was going to die….. and my surgical areas didn’t get back to the “pre-sneeze” comfort level for about 1 hour! Ouch! I’ve begun to practice my song for this coming Monday: 100 staples on the abdominal wall, 100 staples to go, If 1 of those staples would happen to fall, 99 staples on the abdominal wall! 99 staples on the abdominal wall, 99 staples to go, If 1 of those staples would happen to fall, 98 staples on the abdominal wall!

December 23, 2004
One year ago today, I had my initial visit with Dr. Elias. So much has happened in 1 year! I’m now down 136 pounds and only 9 pounds from my goal! I still have swelling from the “tummy tuck”, but I’m very happy with the results. In 1 year, I’ve gone from 56” pants to 36” pants. One year ago, I wore 18 ½” shirts. I just purchased 15 ½” shirts that still fit a bit loose. Christmas is in 2 days. I’m actually looking forward to stepping on the scale after Christmas with the intention of loosing more weight. The foods and sweets are not bothering me. I still have no desire to indulge. I would like to encourage everyone that reads my profile to update your profile as often as possible. Try to remember how important it is to find information from those that have been there….. done that! Others will rely on you for information as they try to make a life changing decision. To all, have a happy and safe holiday season.


January 1, 2005
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

January 2, 2005
The party is over...... I go back to work tomorrow! How lucky can I get? My first day back and I need to take 1/2 sick day for a follow-up with Dr. Elias! I'm now 8 pounds from goal!

January 10, 2005
Minus 141........ 4 more to goal!!!

The support group meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, January 19th at 7pm. I plan on attending.... how about you?

January 19, 2005
Minus 143....... Only 2 more pounds to my goal! As of today, I am now wearing size 34 pants! The only negative that I have really encountered from all the weight loss -> I’m Freezing! This has been the winter from hell for me, but I don’t want all that insulation back. It is snowing today. I hope the support group meeting is not cancelled this evening. I’ve really been looking forward to going. I will call Dr. Elias’ office this afternoon to confirm.

January 24, 2005


 MINUS 145!!!MINUS 145!!!MINUS 145!!!


February 8, 2005
As of today, I'm down another 2 pounds. That is now a total of 147........... Who would have thought!

February 23, 2005
Minus 149!!! Not much to report.... still feeling good and having no problem with eating or cravings. I tried a small vanilla milk shake from McDonald's on Monday.... not a good idea! After the 2 hours of "paying the price", I was glad it made me sick.... keeps ya honest. I hated to miss the support group meeting last Wednesday, but Cindy and I had to go to a rezoning hearing in the Township. It is pretty hard to believe, but my next weight update (listed below) will be my 1 year anniversary. It has been a good year!

February 28, 2005
I went for my monthly check-up at Dr. Elias' office. Laura was available, so I met with her. Down 151 pounds........ all is well, but I don't want to lose anymore weight........ did I just say that???


March 10, 2005
1 YEAR TODAY! I’m down 151 pounds. The weight loss has slowed substantially….. and that is a good thing. I’m now at a weight that I feel very comfortable at….. both physically and mentally. One year with no complications….. no medical complications….. but plenty of “nothing to wear” complications! I thought today’s update should be full of profound thoughts and a lot of reflecting on the past year. But, for some reason, I’m at a loss for words right now. I’m just very grateful to the Good Lord and Dr. Elias for giving me this opportunity to enjoy life. I would have the surgery again in a heartbeat!

March 28, 2005
I just got back from my regular follow-up with Dr. Elias. Things are still going well. However, I am still a bit anemic. Thus, Doc wants me to increase my daily iron pills from 2 a day to 3 a day. I am down another 3 pounds……. A total loss of 154. Easter was yesterday. No candy…… no problem! I am very glad that with the slightest intake of too much sugar, my body responds by sending me into a slight hypo-glycemic state which causes weakness, sweating, and the need to sit a while! I watch the sugar content on all packages of food eaten. Spenda is the sweetener of choice….. and with no problem.


April 6, 2005
Happy 50th Birthday to me!!! The day was full of surprises. Everyone had a good time trying to make me feel old. However, this is the best I have felt in years. I'm still taking my 3 iron pills a day along with my 2 Flinstone vitamins and 2 Tums per day. That sure beats the high BP pills, cholesterol pills, water pills, etc. etc. etc. My fibromyalgia still gives me problems now and then. However, the stiffness, soreness, and overall discomfort is less than it was 1 year ago. With the weather finally trying to warm up, I have been doing a bit more outside and around the house. I cut and fertilized the lawn yesterday. Normally, that would have caused some additional discomfort the next day. But, today seems to be OK......... good news! The support group meeting will be held on Wednesday April 20th at 7pm...... lower lever of Mercy Jeannette Hospital...... I'll be there...... how about you? Today I ordered a new Dell notebook computer.... nice bells and whistles.... should help me get more OH member profiles done!

April 16, 2005
Down another 2 pounds.... a total of 156!!! My Dell notebook came in and I'm trying it out as I type. I like it thus far. The support group meeting is this coming Wednesday. I'll be there, how about you?

April 19, 2005
Tonight I had to buy new pants and shirts. The pants are a 32 waist and the shirts are size 15 (still a bit loose, but how I like them.) Enough said!!!


May 10, 2005
Down 157! I still feel great. I'm still taking my 3 iron pills a day for the anemia. Fortunately, I don't think I am having any real side effects from the anemia. The fibromyalgia has been acting up off and on....... more than I would like. However, the discomfort is still not as bad as before surgery. Most of the problems have been with my fingers and the back of my legs. The support group meeting is on Wednesday May 18th...... I'll be there...... how about you?

May 23, 2005
I saw Dr. Elias today......... down 160 pounds! I now weigh 158 on his scale (the only scale that counts)! My BMI is now 25.2 I am still anemic, but the bloodwork looks better than last month. I will continue to take my 3 iron pills each day. Doc looked at all of his "statistical charts" and said that I am on the upper end of a normal "healthy" weight. He said that it was up to me, but he felt that I didn't need to lose any more weight. I had to pause for a minute (because the following words had NEVER came out of my mouth before), I told him that I didn't really want to lose any more weight and that I was trying to just maintain my current weight. He said that he was very satisfied with my progress and for me to keep up the good work. My next appointment is now 2 months away! Dr. Last (the psychiatrist) spoke at our last support group meeting. He also fielded questions from our group. I'm sorry Dr. Last, you didn't do much for me. With all due respect to the Doctor and all of his education and years of experience, I have a hard time accepting opinions and advice from someone that has not "been there..... done that". WLS post-ops have a lot of mental hurdles to jump during this life changing process. Text book theories and answers just never did impress me much. Show me a psychiatrist that had WLS and I would be more inclined to listen to his/her opinion and testimonial. Dr. Elias will not be able to attend the next support group meeting that is scheduled for June 15th. Lora will be holding the meeting. Lora was fielding suggestions for the agenda at the June meeting. Some suggested having a spokesperson from "Curves" come to speak to the group....... I don't know if that is the plan, but it sure leaves us guys out. I'm not certain that I am going to attend the June meeting.... we will see.


June 27, 2005
It has been over a month since my last update..... very busy during the month of June. No real changes! My weight has stayed the same. I'm still taking my 3 iron pills per day. I go back to see Doc Elias on July 25th. As of now, I plan on attending the support group meeting on Wednesday, July 20th.......... see you there!


July 4, 2005
Hope everyone is having a happy and safe 4th of July. I'm finally getting caught up on some items on my to do list. I'm still working on enhancing OH member profiles.... 94 completed as of today. My health has been good. My fibromyalgia still bothers me some, but not nearly as bad as before surgery. However, I keep "pushing it" more than I should. I've now started a major painting project on the vinyl "cedar shake" siding on the upper level of my house. When I get to the "ladder work" I'm certain that I'll feel the pain..... oh well.

July 25, 2005
I had my visit with Dr Elias today. Everything is still going well. My bloodwork looks a bit better, but I will continue the 3 iron pills per day. The scale indicated that I lost another 2 pounds. For the most part, I'm up a pound..... down a pound..... up 2 pounds..... down 2 pounds. I'm just trying to maintain my current weight of 158. Cindy and I went to the support group meeting last Wednesday. We plan on attending the meeting again in August...... hope to see you there!


August 24, 2005
Not much to report.......... my weight has stayed the same! I'm almost done with my paint job on the upper level of my home with no real problem from the fibromyalgia. Just a bit of discomfort in my hands from gripping the ladder and the brush. I guess that is to be expected at 50 years old! This 2 month project has kept me from enjoying the car show season as I would have liked.

The August support group meeting was good. It was nice to see Rich, Donna, and Diana (as well as the others) at the meeting. The September meeting is on Wednesday the 21st at 7pm.

September 10, 2005
I updated my Progress Chart which is located below. I have managed to keep my weight the same for the past 3 months. Maintaining my current weight really hasn't been a big problem. I'm still struggling with the mental side of the weight loss. From time to time (fairly often lately), I feel fat! I know that I haven't gained any weight, but I'm still having problems with the thought or fear of weight gain. I still weigh myself everyday.

I'm looking forward to the Support Group meeting this month. I have a small surprise for Dr. Elias.

For anyone thinking about WLS...... personally, I would do it again in a heartbeat!

September 19, 2005
I had my visit with Dr. Elias today. My weight is still the same at 158. Doc said he is very pleased with my progress. He doesn't want/need to see me for another 3 months!

Hope to see you this Wednesday evening!

 

October 31, 2005
This has been a frustrating month!

I weigh myself everyday. The only exception to that self-imposed routine is when I am away from home. All summer, I have been aware that being away from home for our weekend trips and not being totally able to stick with my eating routine has caused me to yo-yo about 2 pounds. I know that isn't much. However, living the yo-yo routine for my entire life has caused what might be a "healthy" or "unhealthy" fear of gaining the weight back.

The problem this past month is that I am still up the 2 pounds and I am having some difficulty losing it by just sticking to my normal "at home" routine. No, I haven't increased my exercise. In fact, I don't get enough exercise as it is......... that is another story.

When I was continuing to lose weight, I had to increase my caloric intake slowly to find a way to "maintain" my desired weight. That increase in calories led to more grazing than I would like to have done. Somewhere during the past 2 months, I think the grazing began to increase. All of a sudden, I'm scared to death that I am going to fall into the bad habits from my past.

So as of today, I have started to write down everything that goes into my mouth. This is making me very aware of exactly what and how much I am eating. I am trying to refrain from drinking fluids during and after my meals.......... yea I know........ I shouldn't have been doing that anyway. As of late today........ there has been absolutely no grazing.

Say a prayer for me............ please!

November 1, 2005
Day number 2 of the intake documentation routine. So far, so good. No grazing and I have decreased my caloric intake with the type of fluids I have been drinking. We know that those empty calories will hurt us..........

I think that if I continue to use this OH profile on a more regular basis for all to read, it will help me stay focused and lose the 2 pounds that are making me crazy! In addition, if I continue to update this file for all to read, the rest of the post-ops can see what can and does happen if we don't pay close attention to what we are eating and drinking.

No......... it isn't junk food that is my problem. I still cannot and will not eat anything with a high sugar gram count. The "dumping" syndrome that I experience isn't any fun. My problem has been grazing on food and drink items that I have been able to eat and drink since at least 3 to 4 months after surgery. Are all of these items on Doctor Elias' permitted or recommended list............ no!

Stay tuned for the next update........ hopefully tomorrow!

November 2, 2005
Well day 3 of the "write what you eat" program is still going well. The scale gave some exciting news this morning......... I'll share that tomorrow if the results are the same. Stay tuned!!!

November 3, 2005
Day 4 of the "write what you eat" program is still going well. The scale gave the same results two days in a row........ down the 2 pounds! I feel better now. However, I'm going to continue to program for a while. I am going to try to lose a couple more pounds.

It was somewhat comforting to know that with the extra effort it was still fairly easy to lose the 2 pounds. I don't expect that will last forever. Stay tuned.............

November 11, 2005
I had my visit with my PCP this morning. I am down another pound. I have stopped the "write what you eat" program for now. However, I am watching a lot closer as to what I eat on a daily basis. I still want to lose another pound........... not certain why, other than this "unhealthy" fear of gaining.

November 17, 2005
That extra pound that I lost is now history..... seems that my body doesn't want to accept more loss........ that 1 pound is back on. I haven't given up on losing 2 more pounds..... it is just going to take more effort.

Cindy and I went to the support group meeting last evening..... where were you? To those wanting to come to the December meeting..... forget it..... change your plans..... it is cancelled in December. Those in attendance last evening agreed that December 21st was too close to Christmas.
The next support group meeting will be held on January 18th, 2006.

Have you updated your profile lately? Why not? Your updates might help at least one other person........... We all needed some help.......... and still do.

November 29, 2005
Well, I survived Thanksgiving with little if any trouble at all. I had a little of what I wanted and I was very satisfied. Cindy has learned how to make a killer Pumpkin Pie with Splenda! Most pie freaks wouldn't even know the difference. Her support means everything in this life change.

No weight gain from Thanksgiving........... two years in a row!

December 10, 2005
I hate winter!!! Ever since the cold temps have settled in, I have been experiencing more discomfort with the fibromyalgia.

I never realized how much the success of the surgery and resulting weight loss would impact my fear of regaining the weight. I'm also more aware of how many people are telling me about the "failures" of people they know. I'm convinced that some people are waiting for me to fail. Some folks just can't be happy for you and the success that you have had.

I have an appointment with Dr. Elias on Monday December 19th.

I have another $30.00 per person Christmas Party this evening.... what a rip.... I'm getting tired of paying full price for these banquets and meals.... LOL .... I'll eat my three dollars worth, enjoy my five dollars worth of entertainment and enjoy the company of people I really ..... well enough said.

December 19, 2005
I had my visit with Dr. Elias today. Things went well and I'm still maintaining my weight. I am scheduled for a return visit in 3 months.



January 1, 2006
Happy New Year! I hope that all of you "Pre" and "Post" Ops have a safe and healthy new year!

January 11, 2006
Today is the 3rd day of recording what I eat program again! I'm guessing that the extra couple pounds was a result of too many biscotti over the holiday! All in all, the holidays went well. My eating patterns were very reasonable..... given all the potential problems everywhere I went. I didn't have any high sugar content goodies. But, I did find myself eating those biscotti and a bit too many potato chips at the parties.

The record what you eat program seems to keep me very honest and is already showing results this week. Today is Wednesday, and I plan on continuing the program through the weekend.

I am looking forward to seeing everyone at the support group meeting this month.......... January 18th at 7pm.

January 18, 2006
Cindy and I went to the support group meeting tonight....... sorry I did. There was an exercise guru (Paul) from the Norwin Cardiac Rehab there to speak............. way above most individuals heads. Had I known in advance that there was going to be a guest speaker about exercise...... I would have stayed home. Attendance was down this evening........... good choice everyone!

I'm not certain that I'm going to return as a monthly regular anymore............

January 20, 2006
Just another thought and comment about the support group meeting this week............. I'm fairly certain that anyone in need of gastric bypass has already heard just about everything needed to know about exercise! Am I wrong or what?
 
 
February 16, 2006
Ok.......... so Cindy and I broke down and went to the support group meeting yesterday. The attendance was low...... but we go for quality not quantity.......... LOL



March 2, 2006
I have my appointment with Dr. Elias this coming Monday. I'm not really looking forward to it....... oh, there's nothing wrong..... I'm still maintaining my weight. My 2 year anniversary is next week...... I think this will be my final follow-up visit with Doc. :(



April 11, 2006
Everything is still good........ My weight is staying pretty much the same...... up two..... down four..... up two...........

I am not done seeing Doc Elias. He wants to see me again in June.... I'm happy about that. I did not make the March support group meeting and won't be able to attend the meeting this month. My May schedule looks a bit more promising.

I haven't had much time to do member profiles lately. I did request another this evening to work on............ OH is going to be introducing a new system and feature that will give the members the ability to do their own profiles with built in features. That will free up a lot of time for us volunteers.

For those thinking about the surgery............. do your homework, come to a support group meeting, say your prayers......... then say HELL YES................ life is good!



May 17, 2006
I went to the support group meeting this evening. I missed the past 2 months due to work commitments. There were some new faces there. But more importantly, some old faces missing?

My weight is holding steady. I have been very busy with my show cars and my new trailer........ my last one got totalled (not my fault) in March. Fortunately, no one got hurt in the accident.

It has been raining for the past 3 days and I'm feeling it. My muscles and joints are very sore. As I'm typing, I'm sitting on the heating pad......... this too will pass.


June 11, 2006
I go to see Doctor Elias tomorrow. The past 4 to 6 weeks have been a bit more difficult to maintain my current weight. My eating habits haven't changed. It may or may not be directly related to my flare-up of my fibramyalgia. I have not been able to keep up my activity level.

My bloodwork just came back from my PCP....... has never looked better! I'm guessing that I will not be taking the iron pills for much longer. On the down side, the fibramyalgia flare-up has caused me to need to increase my ultracet medication. Still a lot better than all of the crap I was taking before surgery.

As I said in the past, I go up a couple pounds and down a couple pounds........ right now I'm up a couple......... last time I visited Dr. Elias, I was down a couple.......... thus, it looks like a 4 pound swing!


July 12, 2006
Word of caution to all...... weight maintenance after 2+ years can become a bit more of a challenge if you aren't careful. As Doctor Elias states: "it is only a tool". How we use the tool will determine our success.

As of now, I plan on attending the support group meeting on July 19th at 7pm.

I haven't had much time to member profiles for OH and I feel badly about that...... I hope to be able to continue with my volunteer profile spruce-ups soon.


August 11, 2006
Nothing new to report. I'm still having some problems with my fibramyalgia. It still is not as bad as before surgery.

I had to have my synthroid dosage increased. I am now back up to pre-surgery dosage. I think my PCP was a bit too aggressive in reducing my dosage. My energy level was decreasing and I found that I was tired all the time. Since the increase in dosage, I'm starting to notice things are getting a bit better. It will take a while before the higher dosage takes full effect.

It is a good thing that I contacted the office in July before going to the support group meeting............ Doc was on vacation and the meeting was cancelled. There is supposed to be a meeting this week.... I plan on going.



Nothing new to report.



Nothing new to report.



Nothing new to report.



  Progress Chart

DATE	STATUS	WEIGHT	LOSS	BMI
12-23-03	PRE-OP	318	XXX	50.7
1-23-04	PRE-OP	309	9	49.2
2-23-04	PRE-OP	303	15	48.3
3-10-04	Surgery	293	25	46.7
3-23-04	Post Op	283	35	45.1
4-10-04	Post Op	275	43	43.8
4-23-04	Post Op	268	50	42.7
5-10-04	Post Op	256	62	40.8
5-23-04	Post Op	251	67	40
6-10-04	Post Op	243	75	38.7
6-23-04	Post Op	238	80	37.9
7-10-04	Post Op	230	88	36.6
7-23-04	Post Op	228	90	36.3
8-10-04	Post Op	221	97	35.2
8-23-04	Post Op	214	104	34.1
9-10-04	Post Op	209	109	33.3
9-23-04	Post Op	205	113	32.7
10-10-04	Post Op	201	117	32
10-23-04	Post Op	199	119	31.7
11-10-04	Post Op	194	124	30.9
11-23-04	Post Op	191	127	30.4
12-09-04	Surgery 2	186	132	29.6
12-23-04	Post Op	182	136	29
1-10-05	Post Op	177	141	28.2
1-23-05	Post Op	174	144	27.7
2-10-05	Post Op	170	148	27.1
2-23-05	Post Op	169	149	26.9
3-10-05	Anniversary	167	151	26.6
4-10-05	Post Op	164	154	26.1
5-10-05	Post Op	161	157	25.7
6-10-05	Post Op	158	160	25.2
7-10-05	Post Op	158	160	25.2
8-10-05	Post Op	158	160	25.2
9-10-05	Post Op	158	160	25.2
10-10-05	Post Op	158	160	25.2
11-10-05	Post Op	157	161	24.5
12-10-05	Post Op	158	160	25.2
1-10-06	Post Op	160	158	25.5
2-10-06	Post Op	158	160	25.2
3-10-06	Anniversary	156	162	25.0
4-10-06	Post Op	158	160	25.2
5-10-06	Post Op	158	160	25.2
6-10-06	Post Op	158	160	25.2
7-10-06	Post Op	160	158	25.5
8-10-06	Post Op	160	158	25.5
9-10-06	Post Op	160	158	25.5
10-10-06	Post Op	160	158	25.5
11-10-06	Post Op	160	158	25.5
12-10-06	Post Op	160	158	25.5
1-10-07	Post Op	1??	1??	??.?
2-10-07	Post Op	1??	1??	??.?
3-10-07	Anniversary	1??	1??	??.?

 

Before Photos

INMATE: JWH-MARCH-2004

After Photos

INMATE: JWH-MARCH-2005 1 YEAR ANNIVERSARY
 

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