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cellinl · 01-10-2006, 12:19 PM

I am 45 years old and had my wls in 2/2002 (same doctor and hospital as Al Roker, same week, he was registered as "Albert Lincoln"). I have lost 200 lbs to date, and have maintained this weight for 2 years. I am always hungry, but I always try to eat the right things (proteins first, then friuts & veggies, them calcium, lastly carbs). I eat 6 times a day, moderate portions 3 times, then 3 snacks.I must say that I am very happy to be a "normal" weight and a size 14-16 for the first time in 30 years. However, anyone to say I took the "easy way out" is sadly mistaken.
First of all, I had surgery out of state because this group in NY was the best in the area, so I didn't have any follow-up for 6 months. By that time I was half dead from malnutrition and had out of control diahrea 15-20 times a day. and had to have a TPN installed to feed me (Sort of an IV, but permanently installed central feeding line). I had it for 3 months at which time the doctor took me off it even though I was still malnourished.
Did I mention I was nauseas 24/7 for over a year? Was out of work for 12 months because I couldn't keep my head off the pillow, in & out of the hospital for rehydration IV's, and anther 6 months of TPN. Lost my job and my singing career, my band had to move on without me because I was too weak to sing and had no muscles left. I final crashed in Jan '04, at which time they read me my "last rights" and told me I probably would not make it. I had pulmony embolism and they thought I had leukemia (turns out I didn't).
I swelled up with 44 lbs of fluid in my legs and couldn't walk (meanwhile still not eating). It was then I decided they were all wrong and I put up a heck of a fight!!! I had 6 blood transfusions, and daily injections of Sandostatin at $3000 per month. I had no control over my bodily functions at this point, but amazingly after the last 2 transfusions I woke up the next morning and asked
"what's for breakfast?" Someone had really great blood!! I am doing very well now after intense physical therapy and I feel great!!

LizardQueen · 01-10-2006, 12:37 PM

My goodness! You have been through the mill! Glad thigns are going well for you and you are here with us. Wish we could get good 'ol AL Lincoln to join in, I think he needs the support! Great to have you here!

tfreelandsmith · 01-10-2006, 01:10 PM

HI i am also new to the site and I just want to say I've had the same statements made to me in regards to taking the easy way out although I havne't had the surgery yet. If my insurance covers it I will be getting it! Stay encouraged Tanisha

bridgetgirl · 01-10-2006, 01:34 PM

Cellinl:
Do you think your post op hell was due to no follow up for 6 months? Are you currently taking vitamins and all the stuff we all should be doing?

Zenomia · 01-10-2006, 03:37 PM

What a frightning experience!! Why didn't you have post-op care? I am amazed at your story, and glad that you are well and doing fine now. It takes quite a bit of courage to get through something like that!! Kuddos for doing just that!

Laura/Zen

Bypassingme619 · 01-10-2006, 04:43 PM

Wooow. You have been down a rough road. I am glad the sun is finally shinning down on you. I hope this is thee end of all you have been through and a start to better health. Congrats on the 200 pounds gone forever. I wish continued success.

Tara · 01-10-2006, 04:58 PM

I too had a lot of complications. Mine luckily for me happened while I was in the hospital. I was in for 16 days. I too get very mad when people say it is the easy way out! It comes from ignorance like a lot of things we all go through. Now, 110lbs lighter, I try to educate a little & brush off the ignorant, jealous people.

coptergirl · 01-10-2006, 06:43 PM

Wow - did you ever have a tough go of it. I am concerned as to why you had no follow up for 6 months - that seems dangerous. I am glad you have found this site - welcome to the little (okay big )family. We are here to support you!!