Mine is actually to not lose any more weight. I lost almost 10 pounds after my TT; and that put me at 135 pounds. Since I'm 5'8", that makes me pretty skinny (BMI was only 20.5)....so I'd like to get back up around 140. Then I'd like to start toning up the rest of the body (just waiting on approval from the plastic surgeon). And last, but not least, I need to work on my marriage. I've been living apart from my husband since July and am scared by how much I'm enjoying living alone. We're not "separated"....his job forced him to move earlier than anticipated so I'm staying in Alaska until my youngest son graduates from high school in May 2008. Good luck with the weight loss. Some people on my doctor's website are doing some 5 day pouch test. I've never tried it....but here's a link to it http://www.5daypouchtest.com/plan/theplan.html Maria 272/155/136 pre/goal/current

Thank you. I can't believe another year has gone by (ok almost) but look where we all where a few years ago and where we are today. I'm so happy I had this surgery but I need to get back on track. Have a safe and Happy New Year!

Merry Christmas to all the July 2005 babies. May the New Year bring you good luck, love and fortune! Maria 272/155/135 pre/goal/current

Debbie: this is long, I was scanned on Monday and should get the word on Friday if the cancer is gone. Either way, I am scheduled for surgery Jan 9 to remove lymph nodes on the left side of my neck. That should be the last of the therapies. I was in the hospital in early Dec. I started passing blood and also bleeding through my feeding tube. They admitted me to the hospital and scoped me. The results showed that I don't have a new ulcer (thank goodness!). They attribute the bleeding to stomach acid at the ulcer site. They didn't want to go in surgically, but preferred to treat it with a medicine that fights stomach acid reflux. My cancer surgeon said that if he needed to operate regarding the ulcer, he'd reverse my bypass as it's located at the stoma. My bariatric surgeon assured me that that's not necessary and to contact his firm if I have further problems. I was pretty "bummed" but now I'm better. I was fitted with Phonak hearing aids last week as the chemo damaged my auditory nerve. The audiologist indicated that the multi-directional microphone feature which focuses in on speech as opposed to other sounds would benefit my problem. She also indicated that my hearing could degrade further and that we'll retest in 3 months. The aids were not cheap- $6000 for the pair. It's amazing realizing what I've missed! EVERYTHING CONTINUES TO TASTE LIKE THE GREAT SALT LAKE and I drain constantly and have to spit continually, so I'm staying in most of the time. I can go out as I've adapted so that folks don't actually see me spitting. This is a result of the radio-therapy, but I'm assured things will get better. I've lost 25 pounds, but I have regained 4. I am alive and the prognosis is quite positive. I am a blessed man, with a great support system, including you wonderful folks. To my July broyhers and sisters: Have the happiest of holidays, Dave

Tammy, so sorry to hear about all this! Wow you have been through it. I am proud of you for giving up the smoking. It won't be easy but it will be worth it. Take care of yourself.