I was welcomed back to school warmly! Lots of encouraging words from my co-workers. My class was so glad to see me. Lunch was interesting! It takes me so long to eat now. I had to take my lunch to my classroom so I could concentrate on getting finished!
I was glad to go home at 3:20!
I got a 30 minute walk in and I'm going to take a little nap before heading out to Hark Up rehearsal. I'll have a protein shake on the way there to help me get through the night!
I had a nice talk with Sonja, another friend who just had weight loss surgery! She is a couple weeks ahead of me. It's good to talk to others who are experiencing the same things you are! Praying for you Sonja!
Monday, November 29, 2010
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Going Back to Work
Tomorrow I start back to work. I'm nervous! I don't have all of my energy back, although it has been getting better. I've walked a mile every day but one this past week. I'm not sure I'll feel like doing that after working all day. Please pray for my strength to come back and that I sleep well.
In addition to work, I'd like to be able to sing in Hark Up next weekend. We have rehearsals and programs every day/night starting today through next Sunday. I don't want to overdo it, but I enjoy being in it with Lena. I may have to nap between work and practice!
It seems I have a lot of energy on some days. Strangely, it's on the days when I don't sleep well! Then, I get a good night's sleep and I don't feel as good during the day. I want to put the two together....a good night's sleep plus a high energy day sounds great!
I ate too fast yesterday morning (only about 15 minutes) and nearly lost my breakfast! I tried coco wheats (which I love). I only ate half of a cup but then I met Nancy at the mall and didn't feel very well. I didn't get all my protein in yesterday because of that. I think I would've felt the same way this morning with my oatmeal, but I took an hour to eat my 1 serving!
In addition to work, I'd like to be able to sing in Hark Up next weekend. We have rehearsals and programs every day/night starting today through next Sunday. I don't want to overdo it, but I enjoy being in it with Lena. I may have to nap between work and practice!
It seems I have a lot of energy on some days. Strangely, it's on the days when I don't sleep well! Then, I get a good night's sleep and I don't feel as good during the day. I want to put the two together....a good night's sleep plus a high energy day sounds great!
I ate too fast yesterday morning (only about 15 minutes) and nearly lost my breakfast! I tried coco wheats (which I love). I only ate half of a cup but then I met Nancy at the mall and didn't feel very well. I didn't get all my protein in yesterday because of that. I think I would've felt the same way this morning with my oatmeal, but I took an hour to eat my 1 serving!
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Post Op Visit with Dr. Kemmeter
What a happy day! I've lost 27 pounds! I really am "ON MY WAY"! I'm so excited! I had a really nice visit with Dr. Kemmeter. He said I'm doing great! Everything looks good. My incisions have healed nicely and the steri strips are off, quite painlessly, I might add!
I met with the dietician who gave me the food plan for the next 4 weeks. I can have mashed potatoes tomorrow (Thanksgiving Day)! I've been to the store to stock up on my soft foods that have high protein! I will be drinking at least one high protein shake a day (different from the ones from the last two weeks - 28 grams of protein in one 8 oz. shake). I can have creamed soups, yogurt, cottage cheese, saltines, refried beans, oatmeal, coco wheats, potatoes, some cooked veggies. The main thing is to get 60 grams of protein per day, to keep drinking 64 oz. of water between meals (not with meals), and exercise 30 minutes a day!
I went to a resale shop and bought some black pants so I have something to wear to work next week! My sister, Gloria, loaned me some of her clothes to help me as I go down! I don't want to shop for all new clothes, but already my clothes are sagging!
I met a lady in the lobby at Grand Health Partners who is having her pre-op visits and was very excited to hear how my surgery went. I hope I can be an encouragement to others!
I met with the dietician who gave me the food plan for the next 4 weeks. I can have mashed potatoes tomorrow (Thanksgiving Day)! I've been to the store to stock up on my soft foods that have high protein! I will be drinking at least one high protein shake a day (different from the ones from the last two weeks - 28 grams of protein in one 8 oz. shake). I can have creamed soups, yogurt, cottage cheese, saltines, refried beans, oatmeal, coco wheats, potatoes, some cooked veggies. The main thing is to get 60 grams of protein per day, to keep drinking 64 oz. of water between meals (not with meals), and exercise 30 minutes a day!
I went to a resale shop and bought some black pants so I have something to wear to work next week! My sister, Gloria, loaned me some of her clothes to help me as I go down! I don't want to shop for all new clothes, but already my clothes are sagging!
I met a lady in the lobby at Grand Health Partners who is having her pre-op visits and was very excited to hear how my surgery went. I hope I can be an encouragement to others!
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Two Weeks After Surgery
I walked on the treadmill yesterday for 30 minutes! I was able to walk over a mile! I went out on my own for the first time since surgery. Amazing the things that seem important!
The steri-strips are still on my five incisions, but one is barely sticking! I was told they were glued on! They are itchy! They will come off tomorrow.
I added links to St. Mary's Weight Loss website and Grand Health Partners website. Michele's Journey is a blog that I have read regularly to help me prepare for my own adventure. You can find a link to it on the St. Mary's site. Go to the "Get Social" tab.
The steri-strips are still on my five incisions, but one is barely sticking! I was told they were glued on! They are itchy! They will come off tomorrow.
I added links to St. Mary's Weight Loss website and Grand Health Partners website. Michele's Journey is a blog that I have read regularly to help me prepare for my own adventure. You can find a link to it on the St. Mary's site. Go to the "Get Social" tab.
Monday, November 22, 2010
Week 2
I can't believe it's been almost 2 weeks since surgery! I was able to walk for 20 minutes every day this past week. I'm hoping to get that up to 30 minutes this week. I'm very anxious to return to Grand Health Partners on Wednesday. I'll find out how much I've lost and what the plan is for the next few weeks! Stay tuned!
I've had incredible support from family and friends. Here are pictures of some of the beautiful flowers, cards, and gifts I've received! Thanks for the prayers and get well wishes!
Sunday, November 21, 2010
The Adventure so far!
I've been journaling about this for several months and just decided to start a blog. I've included all of my journal entries.
Sat., Feb. 27, 2010
This past week I received THREE notices about bariatric surgery! I got a brochure in the mail. I saw a woman and her surgeon on EightWest. I saw an ad on Facebook. Are these “signs” meant for me? So, I went to a Bariatric Surgery seminar this morning at Grand Health Partners. I met Dr. Kemmeter, the surgeon, and Cathy Mooney, the nurse from St. Mary’s. I didn’t tell Brian and the kids. I’m debating whether to do it or not. I’m fearful I will fail like every other diet!
Mon., March 8, 2010
I booked an appointment with the weight loss surgeon. I’ve told Brian and the kids about it.
Tues., March 23, 2010
I had an appointment with Dr. Lasater. It was kind of a general physical and health history. He will pass along the information to Dr. Kemmeter.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
One step closer to surgery! Another appointment at Grand Health Partners.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
I had an appointment with the psychologist at Grand Health Partners. I’m “mentally” cleared for surgery!
Friday, May 7, 2010
I got to meet with Dr. Kemmeter today. All other appointments have approved me for surgery. We discussed the options available and decided the Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy would be best for me.
July 1, 2010
MESSA sent a letter saying the vertical sleeve is not a covered procedure.
Wed., July 7, 2010
I had an endoscopy at St. Mary’s today. Dr. Kemmeter performed it. It went fine! I guess he was looking for anything that might be causing excess acid because I’ve been on Prevacid for so long.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
I called MESSA to see about surgery coverage. The lady there told me she thought it had been approved, but I’d get official word by mail!
August 9, 2010
I sent a letter to MESSA to initiate the appeal/grievance. Dr. Kemmeter’s office sent additional data, too.
Thursday, Sept. 9, 2010
I got a letter from MESSA today. My surgery has been okayed! Time to celebrate!
Friday, Sept. 10, 2010
I have a surgery date! Tuesday, November 9, 2010. Wow! It will be here before I know it! I chose that day because band and swimming will be done and I wanted one day (Monday) to be home to get prepared!
Mon., Sept. 13, 2010
Dee will sub for me when I’m off for 2 weeks. I’ll only be back for 2 days before Thanksgiving, then Thanksgiving break! I want to plan on that.
Sun., Sept. 19, 2010
I told the “fam” about my surgery yesterday. They were encouraging! That was helpful.
Mon., Oct. 4, 2010
I’m hoping for real changes before the end of this year. I’m having my surgery in 5 weeks. In just 3 weeks I start the liquid diet. I’m nervous, but more excited! It could be so life changing! I’m praying for my doctor and me and my family.
Tuesday, Oct. 5, 2010
I guess I’m really uptight and stressed! Not just about surgery.....
Thurs., Oct. 7, 2010
I’m telling more people about my surgery. I told Sharon when I got my hair done. I told Mary at the swim meet.
Sat., Oct 9, 2010
Surgery is one month away! I wonder how much weight I will lose?
Wed., Oct. 20, 2010
I Skyped with Kim tonight. I told her about my surgery.
Mon., Oct. 25, 2010
My last day as a fat, over-eating person! I had a morning of pre-op meetings at Grand Health Partners. I saw the dietician and exercise therapist in group sessions. Then I met with the “glass half empty” PA. I picked up my food for the next 2 weeks. I’m wondering and praying about the surgery. I have to get through the next 2 weeks first! It is not all liquid for these 2 weeks. I have a high protein, low calorie diet of their food products only for the 2 weeks before surgery. Brian and I told Mom tonight. I didn’t want her to worry for weeks so we waited to tell her. She took it pretty well.
Tues., Oct. 26, 2010
Ist day of the “diet”! Not one snitch! I can do this! I will not eat any more of the omelets! That was my first meal choice and it was NASTY! Rough day for other reasons....tornado watches and warnings, furnace needs to be replaced!
Wed., Oct. 27, 2010
Diet went well today!
Thurs., Oct. 28, 2010
Day 3! I wonder how long it will take to lose 66#!?! That’s my first goal. Then I’ll be less than I’ve been in at least 15 years (my lowest after the kids were born). I have a tickle and cough tonight.
Sat., Oct. 30, 2010
Day 5 went well but I have a cough/cold. I don’t want surgery cancelled now!
Sun., Oct. 31, 2010
5 days of work to go! I haven’t cheated even once this week! We walked around at Meijer Gardens to see the Chihuly exhibit one more time.
Mon., Nov. 1, 2010
I’ve lost my first 8.3#! Only 120 to go! The PA was nicer today. He said I should try to get over this cold. It will hurt to cough but will not stop surgery.
Tues., Nov. 2, 2010
I got an antibiotic from Dr. Samuelson just to be on the safe side! I don’t want this crud to keep me from having my surgery! I’m coughing hard.
Fri., Nov. 5, 2010
I finished my last day at school before surgery. I told the kids in my class I would be in the hospital for a procedure. All my lesson plans and papers are organized for Dee.
Sun., Nov. 7, 2010
Spent the day at home! Janet came over to keep me company. 36 hours from now surgery will be over!
Mon., Nov. 8, 2010
I was off work today. I packed my bag. Glo and I went to my “appointment”. Then I visited with Mom for a bit. I’m nervous! It’s a little surreal! It was hard to say goodnight to the kids tonight! I wonder how I’ll feel the next time I write something here! Bri took some before pictures!
SURGERY NOTES
Arrived at St. Mary’s at 5:30 a.m. for my 7:30 a.m. surgery. I was taken to pre-op in the Lacks Center. The operating room was in the main part of the hospital. Bri stayed with me until they wheeled me down the hall to OR. I made sure the anesthesiologist knew my biggest fear was nausea and vomiting. I had to do a pregnancy test!!! I guess if I was PG, they would’ve sent me home! I got a heparin shot in my thigh. I had an IV started. I told Dr. Kemmeter a lot of people were praying for me and for him. Then he prayed with Brian and I. I thought that was pretty cool! I don’t remember the trip down the hall but I remember seeing the OR. They strapped my arms down after moving me onto the operating table. There was a PA with a brightly colored hat/cap. I remember nothing from recovery. Apparently Dr. Kemmeter talked to me there. The next thing I remember is: 1) I didn’t die! 2) I don’t feel as bad as I thought I would and 3) I could hear my family saying it is about 11 o’clock. The rest of Tuesday was pretty groggy! They did get me up to walk several times and every 4 hours through the night. Ice chips! Wednesday was more walking and I started my protein drinks. The delaudid made me very sleepy! I could hardly keep my eyes open! They decided to keep me another night to be sure I was getting enough protein in!
Thurs., Nov. 11, 2010
I’m home! 2 days post-op! I’m sore but it went well. I’m starting to eat (drink, really). At times I’m really tired and sore, but I’ll get better. Sometimes I feel pretty normal.
Fri., Nov. 12, 2010
I got more flowers today from my family! Judy and Mom came over tonight. Mom stayed to watch Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy with me. In case anybody cares (it seemed to be of utmost concern to the nurses), I passed gas today!
Sat., Nov. 13, 2010
I went for a walk outside today! Stretched the pain meds out a bit. Haven’t needed any of the Valium. I’ve been on liquid vicodin. Cathy Mooney called to check on me! She is great and has helped me so much! Lena brought me a Build-a-Bear!
Sun., Nov. 14, 2010
I’m going to see how I do with just Tylenol for a while!
Mon., Nov. 15, 2010
Haven’t used the pain meds for 24 hours and feel pretty good. Slept better last night and feel like I have more energy. GOAL: walk at least 20 minutes in one stretch!
Sat., Feb. 27, 2010
This past week I received THREE notices about bariatric surgery! I got a brochure in the mail. I saw a woman and her surgeon on EightWest. I saw an ad on Facebook. Are these “signs” meant for me? So, I went to a Bariatric Surgery seminar this morning at Grand Health Partners. I met Dr. Kemmeter, the surgeon, and Cathy Mooney, the nurse from St. Mary’s. I didn’t tell Brian and the kids. I’m debating whether to do it or not. I’m fearful I will fail like every other diet!
Mon., March 8, 2010
I booked an appointment with the weight loss surgeon. I’ve told Brian and the kids about it.
Tues., March 23, 2010
I had an appointment with Dr. Lasater. It was kind of a general physical and health history. He will pass along the information to Dr. Kemmeter.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
One step closer to surgery! Another appointment at Grand Health Partners.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
I had an appointment with the psychologist at Grand Health Partners. I’m “mentally” cleared for surgery!
Friday, May 7, 2010
I got to meet with Dr. Kemmeter today. All other appointments have approved me for surgery. We discussed the options available and decided the Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy would be best for me.
July 1, 2010
MESSA sent a letter saying the vertical sleeve is not a covered procedure.
Wed., July 7, 2010
I had an endoscopy at St. Mary’s today. Dr. Kemmeter performed it. It went fine! I guess he was looking for anything that might be causing excess acid because I’ve been on Prevacid for so long.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
I called MESSA to see about surgery coverage. The lady there told me she thought it had been approved, but I’d get official word by mail!
August 9, 2010
I sent a letter to MESSA to initiate the appeal/grievance. Dr. Kemmeter’s office sent additional data, too.
Thursday, Sept. 9, 2010
I got a letter from MESSA today. My surgery has been okayed! Time to celebrate!
Friday, Sept. 10, 2010
I have a surgery date! Tuesday, November 9, 2010. Wow! It will be here before I know it! I chose that day because band and swimming will be done and I wanted one day (Monday) to be home to get prepared!
Mon., Sept. 13, 2010
Dee will sub for me when I’m off for 2 weeks. I’ll only be back for 2 days before Thanksgiving, then Thanksgiving break! I want to plan on that.
Sun., Sept. 19, 2010
I told the “fam” about my surgery yesterday. They were encouraging! That was helpful.
Mon., Oct. 4, 2010
I’m hoping for real changes before the end of this year. I’m having my surgery in 5 weeks. In just 3 weeks I start the liquid diet. I’m nervous, but more excited! It could be so life changing! I’m praying for my doctor and me and my family.
Tuesday, Oct. 5, 2010
I guess I’m really uptight and stressed! Not just about surgery.....
Thurs., Oct. 7, 2010
I’m telling more people about my surgery. I told Sharon when I got my hair done. I told Mary at the swim meet.
Sat., Oct 9, 2010
Surgery is one month away! I wonder how much weight I will lose?
Wed., Oct. 20, 2010
I Skyped with Kim tonight. I told her about my surgery.
Mon., Oct. 25, 2010
My last day as a fat, over-eating person! I had a morning of pre-op meetings at Grand Health Partners. I saw the dietician and exercise therapist in group sessions. Then I met with the “glass half empty” PA. I picked up my food for the next 2 weeks. I’m wondering and praying about the surgery. I have to get through the next 2 weeks first! It is not all liquid for these 2 weeks. I have a high protein, low calorie diet of their food products only for the 2 weeks before surgery. Brian and I told Mom tonight. I didn’t want her to worry for weeks so we waited to tell her. She took it pretty well.
Tues., Oct. 26, 2010
Ist day of the “diet”! Not one snitch! I can do this! I will not eat any more of the omelets! That was my first meal choice and it was NASTY! Rough day for other reasons....tornado watches and warnings, furnace needs to be replaced!
Wed., Oct. 27, 2010
Diet went well today!
Thurs., Oct. 28, 2010
Day 3! I wonder how long it will take to lose 66#!?! That’s my first goal. Then I’ll be less than I’ve been in at least 15 years (my lowest after the kids were born). I have a tickle and cough tonight.
Sat., Oct. 30, 2010
Day 5 went well but I have a cough/cold. I don’t want surgery cancelled now!
Sun., Oct. 31, 2010
5 days of work to go! I haven’t cheated even once this week! We walked around at Meijer Gardens to see the Chihuly exhibit one more time.
Mon., Nov. 1, 2010
I’ve lost my first 8.3#! Only 120 to go! The PA was nicer today. He said I should try to get over this cold. It will hurt to cough but will not stop surgery.
Tues., Nov. 2, 2010
I got an antibiotic from Dr. Samuelson just to be on the safe side! I don’t want this crud to keep me from having my surgery! I’m coughing hard.
Fri., Nov. 5, 2010
I finished my last day at school before surgery. I told the kids in my class I would be in the hospital for a procedure. All my lesson plans and papers are organized for Dee.
Sun., Nov. 7, 2010
Spent the day at home! Janet came over to keep me company. 36 hours from now surgery will be over!
Mon., Nov. 8, 2010
I was off work today. I packed my bag. Glo and I went to my “appointment”. Then I visited with Mom for a bit. I’m nervous! It’s a little surreal! It was hard to say goodnight to the kids tonight! I wonder how I’ll feel the next time I write something here! Bri took some before pictures!
SURGERY NOTES
Arrived at St. Mary’s at 5:30 a.m. for my 7:30 a.m. surgery. I was taken to pre-op in the Lacks Center. The operating room was in the main part of the hospital. Bri stayed with me until they wheeled me down the hall to OR. I made sure the anesthesiologist knew my biggest fear was nausea and vomiting. I had to do a pregnancy test!!! I guess if I was PG, they would’ve sent me home! I got a heparin shot in my thigh. I had an IV started. I told Dr. Kemmeter a lot of people were praying for me and for him. Then he prayed with Brian and I. I thought that was pretty cool! I don’t remember the trip down the hall but I remember seeing the OR. They strapped my arms down after moving me onto the operating table. There was a PA with a brightly colored hat/cap. I remember nothing from recovery. Apparently Dr. Kemmeter talked to me there. The next thing I remember is: 1) I didn’t die! 2) I don’t feel as bad as I thought I would and 3) I could hear my family saying it is about 11 o’clock. The rest of Tuesday was pretty groggy! They did get me up to walk several times and every 4 hours through the night. Ice chips! Wednesday was more walking and I started my protein drinks. The delaudid made me very sleepy! I could hardly keep my eyes open! They decided to keep me another night to be sure I was getting enough protein in!
Thurs., Nov. 11, 2010
I’m home! 2 days post-op! I’m sore but it went well. I’m starting to eat (drink, really). At times I’m really tired and sore, but I’ll get better. Sometimes I feel pretty normal.
Fri., Nov. 12, 2010
I got more flowers today from my family! Judy and Mom came over tonight. Mom stayed to watch Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy with me. In case anybody cares (it seemed to be of utmost concern to the nurses), I passed gas today!
Sat., Nov. 13, 2010
I went for a walk outside today! Stretched the pain meds out a bit. Haven’t needed any of the Valium. I’ve been on liquid vicodin. Cathy Mooney called to check on me! She is great and has helped me so much! Lena brought me a Build-a-Bear!
Sun., Nov. 14, 2010
I’m going to see how I do with just Tylenol for a while!
Mon., Nov. 15, 2010
Haven’t used the pain meds for 24 hours and feel pretty good. Slept better last night and feel like I have more energy. GOAL: walk at least 20 minutes in one stretch!
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