Afternoon everyone! So this morning after waking up nauseous and thinking it was something to do with my pouch, I ended up at the emergency room only to find out that they are going to FINALLY diagnose me with gallstones. I think I had them prior to my bypass sx, but it was never diagnosed so my surgeon left it in. Needless to say, I am back on an all liquid diet till tomorrow and I can have NO FATS OF ANY KIND! This is a big problem for me b/c I am allowed to have fats in my diet; aka cheese, olive oil, avacadoes, refried beans, etc. The good fats, not french fries and cheese steaks. I still have trouble with meats, esp chicken and I hate eggs and fish!! AHHH!! I am frustrated mostly because on May 18 of this yr I had my tonsils out, my septum straightened, and my sinuses cleaned out and was out of work for 2.5 weeks. I used up all my sick time and vacation time (I have only been at my job for 9 months and short term disability denied me coverage). I am joking about it b/c I dont really have a choice in the matter, the surgeon said the sooner it comes out the easier it will be (as opposed to having it out after I have another attack). I will have had 3 surgeries in less than 2 years how awesome is that?!?!? (dripping with sarcasm!!!)...thanks for listening everyone!! Sarah

Hi Debbie, Thanks for letting us know how you are. I too was wondering and praying that your surgeries went smoothly. Way to go on the weight loss. It's your prize for all that pain!! You'll be at goal before you know it. I bet your belly is looking great. Take care. Don't be shy with the pain meds. No need to be in pain. Warmly, Paula

Paula, Big hugs coming your way. I know this birthday was hard for you. Remember altho your mom is not here, she is still in your heart. Don't let her passing take over your life. Rejoice in what you have accomplished and know that she would be so proud of you. My mom passed away 2 days before my birthday this year and 1 day after she was suppose to fly here to live with us. It is hard at times and I do miss her terribly, but I know she is now without pain nor is she suffering. That makes it so much easier. My niece is here right now, so haven't been on the computer much. She will be here another week, then I will be able to check posts more often. Mary

Wanda, Thank you for the kind words. I'm happy your grief about your mom's death has become easier for you as the years have gone by. I pray for the same. My mom was not just critical about my size. I don't ever remember her saying she was proud of me...throughout my life. I got married at 20 after dropping out of college. My parents were both greatly disappointed, I now as a parent can understand their feelings. Like a lot of parents, their dream was for me to become a doctor. But eventually I finished college and nursing school...magn *** laude. I got a double master's degree...top of both majors. I became a nurse practitioner. She asked if I was disappointed that I hadn't become a doctor not just a nurse. And on and on. But, I hold no grudges now. That's just the way she was. And, it made me a stronger woman able to provide for my 4 kids far away from an abusive man. Sorry to go on and on. Thanks for caring. Paula

Jill...Thank you so much for sharing. I understand your feelings so well. Having both parents being critical of you must have been difficult. My dad tried to be supportive..in his own way. He had an alcohol problem and became verbally abusive when under the influence...and then forgot that he called me a fat butt or whatever. I hope the pain lessens as the years roll by. Thankfully, I do have a strong belief system and know that they are together and both happy now. By the time I get to heaven I know they will be loving and find worth in all souls. Paula