Good Mornin' Maysters! I've missed ya!

First of all Happy Mother's Day to all those applies to. Heck, Happy Mother's Day to all women. In our own ways, with or without children, we nuture and care and for that it is a celebration of womanhood so Happy Mother's Day to all the women. Secondly, I'm backkkkkkkkkkkkk. We got home from Pittsburgh late last night. I'll write a whole synopsis of the conference later today for you all to peruse. Overall, have avery nice time. The hotel lacked much and that is another story. We had one day at the hospital and that was great. For the most part, excellent speakers. (And yes, we did see Dr. Ganz and she is terrific and we even had one-on-one time with her when no one showed up for one of the question and answer sessions.) I came home not surprisingly with a few friends (aka pounds). Given being away for 3 full days... I'll take 2-3 pounds graciously. Now, pounds BE GONE! Now time to catch up... Missed you all, Kathy

HOSPITAL??? You guys ok?

Oops, sorry Barb... one day of the OH Conference in Pittsburgh was held at Magee's Women's Hopsital. We are fine! Hugs to you, Kathy

ahhh, ok. whew Hugs back to you sweet lady, glad you are home, safe and sound. I wanted to let you know I am finally going to my surgeon friday and going to schedule this scopey baloon thing to help this persnickity pouch of mine. I am dreading it and scared to death once I'm fixed I'll be able to eat TOO much. I'm up for the challenge tho. I want to be able to make good choices of food and eat healthy SO bad. It has been a real struggle for me this year. Would not reccomend this surgery like I see so many people posting would. I feel so malnourished Anyway, after we go to Atlanta we are driving up to Chattanooga to meet my daughter and her DH for a long weekend, haven't seen them since December!! I am SO looking forward to this. Talk to you soon, Barb

Barb, You just going to have an EGD with dilation? Oh, dear Barb, it won't stretch your stoma enough to allow you to eat alot. They do not overdo it. The procedure itself is uneventful. I had one EGD with dilation and then just an EGD (didn't need a dilation that time). Sorry to hear that the year has been a struggle for you. Is it all related to a small stoma and difficulty getting solids down? Are you drinking protein shakes? If not, I'd certainly recommend them to you. They will help get rid of the malnourished feeling. Have a fantastic visit with your daughter and son-in-law. I'm sure they'll be surprised at how you look! Hugs, Kathy

The doc didn't say anything about the stoma, he said my actual pouch needs to be stretched. All I know is that I have SEVERE cramping across my whole upper abdomen every time I eat. Had a bad attack today, out with my 6 yr old and had to come back home. The cramping is over but I have bad burning in my pouch and lower esophagus. I have a fobi pouch which means there is a ring around my stoma, I have often wondered if this is the cause. Thank you for reminding me to start back up on my protein drink. I still cannot do shakes but I found Liquid Protein at GNC and it is only 3 Tablespoons per serving. Pouch can't handle much more than that. I really hate to be such a whiner. Wish I was upbeat for everyone on the board. I just don't have it in me for right now. Thanks for writing Kathy, love, Barb

Barb, By whatever means, get that protein in there. It'll keep you strong. I know nothing about the fobi pouch. Never heard of stretching a pouch but since I know nothing about the fobi - it must make logical sense. I've heard of silastic rings about stomas but I would still think that a stoma could get scar tissue and need dilation but who knows. Don't worry about whining, my dear. Do what you have to. We are all here for you. Just because many have had an easy road... there are many out there who haven't. My own journey has certainly hit a number of speed bumps along the way. I do know how hard it is to be upbeat and happy when one is in pain. Not to mention, in your case - having nourishment issues. Get your protein, take your vitamins and stay hydrated as best you can and get stronger! Love, Kathy