Looking for someone to speak with who weighs over 700 pounds, can anyone help me?

I would like to speak to a man or someone who is friends with someone in that weight range and I would prefer to speak about the details privately if possible either in a private chat or my e-mail is [email protected] thank you for understanding.

The best person you can talk with this wonderful lady Amy's Profile Your Friend Send Message Member Card Name: Amy Williams Username: AmyWilliams Location: Augusta, GA, USA Member Since: 8/13/2002 BMI: 28.0 Post Op Surgery Type: RNY (05/27/04) Surgeon: Robert G. Martindale, M.D., Ph.D. Website: http://www.amylhwilliams.com I'm an Obesityhelp.com Sponsor Photos Mine (268)I'm in (79) Almost 3 years Down 391 pounds! Uploaded on 3/11/07 10:51 pm Big Pants Uploaded on 3/11/07 10:51 pm Big Pants 2 Uploaded on 3/11/07 10:51 pm 2 months post abdominoplasty Uploaded on 3/4/07 4:50 am 2 month scar Uploaded on 3/4/07 4:50 am Butterfly basket! Uploaded on 2/12/07 3:19 pm View Other Photos Me 2 month after surgery Uploaded on 1/12/07 7:15 pm Kenneth and I Uploaded on 12/9/06 7:21 pm Kenneth and I Uploaded on 12/9/06 7:21 pm Amy and Sue Uploaded on 12/9/06 7:21 pm OfficeMarch2006.jpg Uploaded on 12/7/06 2:38 pm Meeting in Irvine Uploaded on 12/7/06 2:38 pm View all Photos I'm in Friends Amy Williams has 1093 Friends Amy ericklein B. McCoy Cathy Wilson - OH Staff Monica G Tammy Colter Ronda E. nikpoojoh Jeremy Gentles View all friends Surgeon Testimonial Robert G. Martindale, M.D., Ph.D. 12/02/05 I recently emailed Dr. Martindale to see how he's doing. He was so nice as always. This man is amazing. I can't even imagine someone so thoughtful and passionate about a field like this, but he his truly devoted to helping those people like myself who have lost all hope of living anymore. I just hope he know's what a difference he's made in so many people's lives. 4/15/2005 I went to see Dr. Martindale for the last time before he leaves for his new job in Oregon. I will miss him so much. I gave him a heart shaped box filled with Hersey kisses. I told him at this point I had lost 250 pounds. I had counted out the kisses and give him one for each pound I had lost. This man is amazing. He's been such an inspiration in all that he does for other. He took on my case when no one else would do it and for that I can't thank him enough. He's saved my life and my husbands. I can't ever repay someone for doing something so special for me. Dr. Martindale will be grately missed at MCG. What a shame to lose such a special surgeon. 2/16/2004 I will have to tell you. I've been to now going on my fourth surgeon. Up to this point I was not 100% impressed with the ones that I had gone to. There was something about each one of them that held me back from wanting them to do surgery. I feel extremely BLESSED to have Dr. Martindale as my soon to be surgeon. This man is HIGHLY educated in this field. When we came in to meet me he was very friendly and kind. I felt like he was concerned about me. You could tell from the way that he talked about this that it was a passion for him to help people. He gave time for me to ask questions and did so very wonderfully. He made me feel very good knowing he deals with many patients that are over 500 pounds and has a true concern for those super obese. There are NOT many in this field that will even do surgery on someone these sizes, yet he takes the chance and helps us. What a man! Just to tell you some pluses. He takes the gallbladder out during surgery, he said it only take 3 minutes while your there. I said what about insurance, he said he doesn't charge them for it. He's done over 500 bariatric surgeries dealing with mostly high risk patients. He said to keep in mind he also does other surgeries such as hernia repairs, and other gastrointestinal surgeries, as well as be a professor, and he goes to other countries donating his time to help the less fortunate. He's done maybe 50 patients under 500 pounds the rest where over 500 pounds. He said the average BMI is 60, whereas most are around 45. I felt a huge relief that he's so experienced with high weights. The highest weight he did was over 900 pounds. I asked him about deaths. He has not had a patient die on the OR table. He has however lost 7 patients and he went into full details of each one, he said that patients had died anywhere between 8weeks to a year for various reason. He's only had 3 leaks. I asked him about certain patients and he remembered each one of them. That said a lot. Anyway I spent an hour and a half with him. He also knows and understands about my lymphedema. He felt that I would lose a good bit of weight from therapy. I could tell how he spoke that this was a passion. He said he does this surgery to save people's lives and give them life back. I fell in love with him. While he was talking to me I could see a glow around him. It was the most amazing experience, when we left I KNEW it was right and had major relief. I fully trust him and would put my life in his hands. 8-18-2003 I orginally went to Dr. Gooden in Augusta. He said that he didn't have an OR table big enough for me. Dr. Goodens staff was fine, I just wish someone there would have asked prior about my weight instead of waisting my time and the surgeons time. I was disappointed. This is just my opinion I would not recommend some to go to this surgeon. I was not impressed with his office or how his program was set up for the obese. I am now going to see Dr Burrowes in Atlanta on the 29th of October. 10-7-2003 I went to a Siminar for Dr. Duncan. I will say that I was quite impressed with this man. He is very smart, and had great dry humor! I would recommend him to anyone. His program is very well set up and he took the time after the siminar to talk with me personally. He only now does the Lap RNY. He does however have associates that do the open percedure too. I sent my packet to them and I'm suppose to go see him on November 20th. Provided I pick him to do the surgery. 10-29-2003 Dr. Burrowes was a very informative, and smart man. The longer I sat and spoke to him the more I understood that he does this surgery for the soul reason to give someone their life back. His office was very nice. You can park on the 3rd level in the parking garage and go across the cross walk into the office building. Take the elevators to the 5th floor. It's not very far to walk. His office had chair with and with out arms. As a very comfortable couch. His staff was very kind and took their time with me. Once I got in the office I didn't wait to long. I was then taken back to get weighed and also they take your picture with some measurements. They had no problems with my husband accompanying me back there. We then watched a couple of videos. Dr. Burrowes is a huge fan of the Fobi pouch, which was designed by a surgeon in California (Mathias A. L. Fobi). (http://www.cstobesity.com) I knew going in that he was liked this percedure over the others. If you want to have that done you will have to pay out of pocket $4500. I told him that I could not get the funding for that and would prefer just the RNY without the Fobi. He had NO PROBLEM doing that. Infact he does SIX percedures. RNY, VBG, LAP-BAND, D/S DUODENAL SWITCH, and FOBI POUCH. He said that most insurance will only pay or allow the VBG and RNY. Any other would be out of pocket expense involved. My overall view of Dr. Burrowes was very impressed. He's definately on the HIGH end of the scale. His death rate is very low and he had done over 1000 of this surgery. He took the time to answer all my questions. He doesn't want an answer that day. He told me again all the risks involved. I got a very thick aftercare booklet that explained what I will be able to eat, things to expect, a long list of potential problems that can be resolved by the patient to cut down on calls to his office. It listed ideas for meals. I was extremely impressed. It also described what to expect 1-4 days. I guess what I most impressed about is how he does the percedure. He does it open with an incision of 2-3 inches long!! I know that he is a very skilled surgeon and feel this will be the one for me. 11-20-2003 Well, I decided to go see Dr. Duncan today. Just wanted to feel him out too. I was very disappointed. I knew before I went that he doesn't want you to gain weight, but he wants you to do that for 90 days supervised BEFORE he will do surgery. I understand him wanting to shink the liver, but when I've been trying to diet since May this made me somewhat upset. I've been doing all I can. Not to meantion I was told on the phone that Dr. Duncan would be there. NOPE! He had an associate take a look at all of us. I was told one on one and I'm very upset that I went 150 miles to not ever see the surgeon. Total waste of my time. The staff is friendly, but people need to be told before hand the truth. Hospital Reviews (Augusta, GA) - Medical College of GA (Augusta, GA) - St. Joseph Hospital Weight Loss Survey Responses Click Here To View Latest Surgery Support Comments Comment by AnnoyingLizard on 3/6/07 10:02 pm Just stopping by to say Thanks for doing such great things here on OH! Comment by Shelley M. on 2/14/07 9:54 am Just stopping by to say Hi and Happy Valentines Day!!! I hope you have a GREAT day! Shells Comment by TL on 1/27/07 11:09 pm Sending lots of get well wishes your way & for you to have a quick recovery. Take care of yourself.Click here for the surgery support page The Journey to the NEW ME! This is the story of my life's journey of winning the battle against Obesity! 9x pants to 20's! on March 12, 2007 11:36 am Well... If someone would have told me 3 years ago that I'd be in the place I am at now I really wouldn't have believed it. Many times I have to pinch myself because I feel like I am living a dream. Last night I held up the pants I once wore and tears came down my face. It was tears of joy for finally realizing that I'm no longer a prisoner of my body. Tears of sadness because...I was once in such a bad situation. Mostly tears of joy knowing how far I've come over these past 3 years. I got on the scale yesterday and I'm down another 2 pounds since having my tummy tuck. I'm thrilled! I keep taking any loss that I get, although I'm perfectly happy at the weight I'm at now. I've still got lots of skin in the lower half, so only time will tell if I do anymore plastics. Thankfully it seems my blood clot is better in my legs. The blood thinner is doing it's job. I'm looking forward to my trip out to California next month, lots of faces I've been wanting to meet or see again! I cannot wait. Here's some photos. As always thank you ALL for your support! 2 comments | Click here to leave a comment. MTV and other video links on March 6, 2007 10:58 pm I've had many people ask me over the years to send them a video or they missed the MTV segment I was on. I've been doing some google searching and stuff. I have finally figured out how to update them myself. If you are interested here are the links on Google and YouTube, just click on a link below. Some of the video is fuzzy because of the compression, but it's up! Tax break News segment This was a video done at my largest Entertainment Tonight segment MTV's segment Update since MTV segment When I watch these videos I cannot believe that use to be me.... 5 comments | Click here to leave a comment. Serious Situation Needing good vibes! on March 6, 2007 2:28 pm Last week I told you all about JoAnn's situation. She is homebound and unable to find a surgeon who will do the surgery on her at her size. She has not walked from her bed in 2 years. I need some very positive vibes, prayers, or candles lit. Anthing to give some good vibes. I submitted Joann's name for the documentary they are doing with TLC. The producer has called me even given that she is not in Texas as they had wanted and are in talks with the surgeons about possibly transporting Joann to Houston to do weight loss surgery. PLEASE pray for Joann. If this doesn't happen she is seriously going to die. She is about 660+ pounds and only 5 foot, that's a BMI around 128. This is a serious situation and might be the answer to all our prayers for her this past week. I've found out that she was taken last week after we talked back to the hospital for breathing problems again. She is in the hospital right now still. Thank you so much for everyone who has prayed for her already and sent cards. I don't think you all will ever know what this has done for her!! Update: Spoke with producer and they are unable to get her to Houston at this point. The surgeons in Houston have contacts where JoAnn is located so they are going to assist in trying to get her help locally. Keep praying. If you want to send JoAnn a card please contact me. Be the first to leave a comment. 2 months updated photos on March 4, 2007 5:23 am I posted last night I'd see about getting some new photos up for my scar from my tummy tuck. I just uploaded some new ones. It is 2 months today. I've lost an additional 36 pounds since this surgery! Here's the newest photos: Be the first to leave a comment. I can't believe it!! on March 3, 2007 7:06 pm Well, the tool is still working. It's now been almost 2 months since my reconstructive surgery. I've managed to lose more weight. It keeps going down, down, down. I had been pretty well stalled out for almost a year before my recent surgery. I've lost another 11 pounds! I can't believe it! That makes 36 pounds since my plastics. I've noticed my activity has really been better. I feel so much better about myself. This surgery has really changed how I feel about myself and my body. I no longer feel like I have to keep pulling my shirts down to cover my roll and I just feel more confident. I still have all this skin left, but I am happy! I'm thrilled about the results and the continued loss. So those who are further out, the weight loss can continue. I know mine had a lot to do with this skin removal, but it's still working even after almost 3 years. I'm 9 more pounds from losing 400 pounds. I can't even believe or NEVER imagined I would get this far. I'm going to make that my goal to get to 400 pounds lost. Stay encouraged, if I can do this I know all of you can too! I hope everyone is having a great weekend! I've been asked about some more photos showing the scars. I'll see about getting some up soon. 1 comment | Click here to leave a comment. My friend JoAnn needs support on February 28, 2007 11:39 pm I had posted on the main message board this: I just needed some support tonight. This weekend I got a call from an old friend. Some of you might remember Joann, we did a card shower for her last year. She is homebound. Weighing over 600 pounds. Things in her life didn't work out like she expected and her health has gone from bad to worse. She is literally dying in her home. I got off the phone crying because this woman feels so helpless, so alone, and she had been scared to call me because I might think she is a failure. Needless to say I don't think she's a failure. I'm not sure why I'm writing this here right now, but I guess because my heart is breaking for her. I want to help her, but I can't. I want her to live, but I can't. I can't help her fix herself. I'm just so heart broken. Please say a prayer for Joann, she feels so alone and I don't want her to die. Maybe we can do another card shower for her. If you are interested in sending her a card or letter of encouragement please email me [email protected] She needs to know people DO care. She has so much to live for, but is all alone. This is an update with my special message to those who have helped. I've been meaning to post about my message from the other day about my friend Joann. I just got settled enough in the hotel to make this video. The lighting is not the best, but the message is there. So please take a moment to watch my special OH thank you. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9hwQzudh9Uw JoAnn continues to need much support so if you would like to send her a letter or card, email or PM me for the information. Be the first to leave a comment. Browse pages: next > Archive March 2007 February 2007 January 2007 December 2006 November 2006 October 2006 September 2006 August 2006 July 2006 June 2006 May 2006 April 2006 March 2006 February 2006 January 2006 December 2005 November 2005 October 2005 September 2005 August 2005 July 2005 June 2005 May 2005 April 2005 March 2005 February 2005 January 2005 December 2004 November 2004 October 2004 September 2004 August 2004 July 2004 June 2004 May 2004 April 2004 March 2004 February 2004 January 2004 December 2003 November 2003 October 2003 September 2003 August 2003 July 2003 My Story My name is Amy Williams, many years now I've been a volunteer on Obesityhelp.com. I have come a long way since my appearance on MTV's True Life "I'm Obese". If you have not seen the video, the video is below. I truly have enjoyed the time I've given to this site to help other members. Currently I'm working as Member Service Manager for Obesityhelp.com. I have been a long time volunteer since 2003. I truly enjoy and love my job here, it's a blessing to be able to help members locate a surgeon in their area, to help members on the site, and just be supportive to answer questions about surgery on and off the site. I am very involved with running two local support groups. I love giving back to others along this journey and nothing makes me happier. I'm currently 2 1/2 years post-op and have lost 380 pounds. I'm 6 foot 3 inches. I could not ask to work for a better organization. Changing lives and seeing members get their lives back is truly my reward in this awesome job. Please feel free to Email Me or OH Staff Email Member Services for help. Articles and Media Links I've been featured in (You must have adobe reader to view the articles) Obesityhelp 2004 Article Bariatrics Today Magazine Article E Lymph Notes Article 2004 OH Magazine 2006 Article OH Magazine 2007 Article Entertainment Tonight 2004 MTV's True Life "I'm Obese" 2004 Click here to see video Local CBS update 2006 Click here to see video Click play on video below to see when I was on MTV's True Life, update above from CBS View Show Webpage Dedication: When I started looking into WLS, I was not very serious about it. I felt I would die from it and it scared me. One day while watching the Oprah Show, Oprah had a man on that weighed 863 pounds at one time. He had lost over 600 pounds from the gastric bypass. The surgeon only gave him a 40% chance to live. To see that he made it thru the surgery and was able to change his life is such an inspiration to people that are super morbidly obese. The sad part was not many months later "Big" Pete passed away from congestive heart failure. This man has changed more lives then he may never know about and I dedicate this page to him.... Please look him up on this site Peter Herida Augusta, Ga Area Obesityhelp Support Group If you are in the Augusta, Ga. area, sign up for the Obesityhelp Augusta Support Group online. It doesn't matter who your surgeon was, we are here to talk about issues related to WLS and just have fellowship/ friendship. I hope that you will join us. 2007 Schedule Our 2007 meeting are first Saturday at 2pm and first Wednesday at 7pm. Please visit our support group page for complete details of dates, times and locations. Click Here for complete details. Join the local Yahoo group to get support, click the link below Click to join Augusta WLS Support Group Click Here - To learn how to start a Obesityhelp Support Group in your area List of things I want to do 1. Drive Done! 2. Wash dishes without my back hurting Done! 3. Stand for over 10 minutes Done! 4. Walk to the bathroom without getting winded Done! 5. Tie my shoes Done! 6. Go to walmart and pick something off the rack Done! 7. fit in a regular bathroom stall instead of the handicap one Done! 8. take a shower standing up Done! 9. take a shower with hubby again! woohoo Done! 10. just get out of the house and not be ashamed Done! 11. be on the Oprah show 12. go back to college or get a dream job Done! 13. be able to sit in a chair with arms Done! 14. clean the whole house in one day (like I use to) Done! 15. walk a mile Done! 16. go to the Y and swim Done! 17. go to the mall and hang out Done! 18. see a movie in the threater Done! 19. go on a cruise 20. go snorkling 21. get rid of wheelchair Done! 22. go to my 10 year HS reunion Done! 23. have a make over Done! 24. be under 300 pounds Done! 25. go to a obesityhelp.com convention Done! 26. plant a garden 27. buckle seat belt without extentions Done! 28. go to church Done! 29. jog, skip, run Done! 30. dance Done! 31. have a child 32. go to glamour shots 33. be able to wear sexy underwear instead of "granny panties" LOL Done! 34. Go to Disneyworld Done! 35. see a broadway show 36. meet carnie wilson 37. fly on a plane Done! 3/05/2006 38. be able to walk on the beach and put my feet in the sand, feel the waves on my feet Done! 3/12/2006 39. get a manicure and pedicure Done! 40. be able to get my hair "professionally cut" FIT IN THE CHAIR! Done! 41. buy regular shoes for women Done! 42. wear jeans Done! 43. Go to someone's house with out the fear of breaking toilet, or furniture Done! 44. be social again Done! 45. go to a party (just to say I did) Done! 46. Get out of my wheelchair Done! 47. Speak in front a large crowd Done! 48. Be in a magazine Done! 49. Spread more awareness for Lymphedema Done and still doing it! 50. Help advocate for other people that are obese and need help Done and still doing it! 51. Run a support group Done! MY WEIGHT LOSS CHART AND RECENT PICTURE WEIGHT LOSS CHART Date Weight Pounds Lost Total Pounds Lost BMI 2/16/2004 615 N/A N/A 79.0 5/27/2004 570 -45 lbs -45 lbs 73.2 6/07/2004 557 -13 lbs -58 lbs 71.5 6/14/2004 525 -32 lbs -90 lbs 67.4 6/24/2004 510 -15 lbs -105 lbs 65.5 7/13/2004 504 -6 lbs -111 lbs 64.7 7/21/2004 501 -3 lbs -114 lbs 64.3 8/06/2004 480 -21 lbs -135 lbs 61.6 8/16/2004 475 -5 lbs -140 lbs 61.0 8/27/2004 463 -12 lbs -152 lbs 59.4 9/03/2004 457 -6 lbs -158 lbs 58.7 9/20/2004 449 -8 lbs -166 lbs 57.6 10/02/2004 443 -6 lbs -172 lbs 56.9 10/17/2004 429 -14 lbs -186 lbs 55.1 10/18/2004 427 -2 lbs -188 lbs 54.8 10/21/2004 423 -4 lbs -192 lbs 54.3 10/27/2004 421 -2 lbs -194 lbs 52.6 11/15/2004 412 -9 lbs -203 lbs 51.5 12/12/2004 402 -10 lbs -213 lbs 50.2 12/28/2004 395 -7 lbs -220 lbs 49.4 1/20/2005 390 -5 lbs -225 lbs 48.7 1/27/2005 382 -8 lbs -233 lbs 47.7 3/01/2005 365 -17 lbs -250 lbs 45.6 3/27/2005 360 -5 lbs -255 lbs 45.0 4/27/2005 338 -22 lbs -277 lbs 42.2 5/27/2005 335 -3 lbs -280 lbs 41.9 6/27/2005 314 -21 lbs -301 lbs 39.2 7/27/2005 307 -7 lbs -308 lbs 38.4 9/27/2005 293 -14 lbs -322 lbs 36.6 10/27/2005 275 -18 lbs -340 lbs 34.4 11/27/2005 275 -0 lbs -340 lbs 34.4 12/27/2005 283 +8 lbs (leg swelling) -332 lbs 34.4 1/27/2006 264 -19 lbs -351 lbs 33.0 12/6/2006 260 -4 lbs -355 lbs 32.4 2/4/2007 235 -25 lbs -380 lbs 29.4 3/4/2007 224 -11 lbs -391 lbs 28.0 Click to zoom in on my visitor map! 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The best person you can talk with this wonderful lady Amy's Profile Your Friend Send Message Member Card Name: Amy Williams Username: AmyWilliams Location: Augusta, GA, USA Member Since: 8/13/2002 BMI: 28.0 Post Op Surgery Type: RNY (05/27/04) Surgeon: Robert G. Martindale, M.D., Ph.D. Website: http://www.amylhwilliams.com I'm an Obesityhelp.com Sponsor Photos Mine (268)I'm in (79) Almost 3 years Down 391 pounds! Uploaded on 3/11/07 10:51 pm Big Pants Uploaded on 3/11/07 10:51 pm Big Pants 2 Uploaded on 3/11/07 10:51 pm 2 months post abdominoplasty Uploaded on 3/4/07 4:50 am 2 month scar Uploaded on 3/4/07 4:50 am Butterfly basket! Uploaded on 2/12/07 3:19 pm View Other Photos Me 2 month after surgery Uploaded on 1/12/07 7:15 pm Kenneth and I Uploaded on 12/9/06 7:21 pm Kenneth and I Uploaded on 12/9/06 7:21 pm Amy and Sue Uploaded on 12/9/06 7:21 pm OfficeMarch2006.jpg Uploaded on 12/7/06 2:38 pm Meeting in Irvine Uploaded on 12/7/06 2:38 pm View all Photos I'm in Friends Amy Williams has 1093 Friends Amy ericklein B. McCoy Cathy Wilson - OH Staff Monica G Tammy Colter Ronda E. nikpoojoh Jeremy Gentles View all friends Surgeon Testimonial Robert G. Martindale, M.D., Ph.D. 12/02/05 I recently emailed Dr. Martindale to see how he's doing. He was so nice as always. This man is amazing. I can't even imagine someone so thoughtful and passionate about a field like this, but he his truly devoted to helping those people like myself who have lost all hope of living anymore. I just hope he know's what a difference he's made in so many people's lives. 4/15/2005 I went to see Dr. Martindale for the last time before he leaves for his new job in Oregon. I will miss him so much. I gave him a heart shaped box filled with Hersey kisses. I told him at this point I had lost 250 pounds. I had counted out the kisses and give him one for each pound I had lost. This man is amazing. He's been such an inspiration in all that he does for other. He took on my case when no one else would do it and for that I can't thank him enough. He's saved my life and my husbands. I can't ever repay someone for doing something so special for me. Dr. Martindale will be grately missed at MCG. What a shame to lose such a special surgeon. 2/16/2004 I will have to tell you. I've been to now going on my fourth surgeon. Up to this point I was not 100% impressed with the ones that I had gone to. There was something about each one of them that held me back from wanting them to do surgery. I feel extremely BLESSED to have Dr. Martindale as my soon to be surgeon. This man is HIGHLY educated in this field. When we came in to meet me he was very friendly and kind. I felt like he was concerned about me. You could tell from the way that he talked about this that it was a passion for him to help people. He gave time for me to ask questions and did so very wonderfully. He made me feel very good knowing he deals with many patients that are over 500 pounds and has a true concern for those super obese. There are NOT many in this field that will even do surgery on someone these sizes, yet he takes the chance and helps us. What a man! Just to tell you some pluses. He takes the gallbladder out during surgery, he said it only take 3 minutes while your there. I said what about insurance, he said he doesn't charge them for it. He's done over 500 bariatric surgeries dealing with mostly high risk patients. He said to keep in mind he also does other surgeries such as hernia repairs, and other gastrointestinal surgeries, as well as be a professor, and he goes to other countries donating his time to help the less fortunate. He's done maybe 50 patients under 500 pounds the rest where over 500 pounds. He said the average BMI is 60, whereas most are around 45. I felt a huge relief that he's so experienced with high weights. The highest weight he did was over 900 pounds. I asked him about deaths. He has not had a patient die on the OR table. He has however lost 7 patients and he went into full details of each one, he said that patients had died anywhere between 8weeks to a year for various reason. He's only had 3 leaks. I asked him about certain patients and he remembered each one of them. That said a lot. Anyway I spent an hour and a half with him. He also knows and understands about my lymphedema. He felt that I would lose a good bit of weight from therapy. I could tell how he spoke that this was a passion. He said he does this surgery to save people's lives and give them life back. I fell in love with him. While he was talking to me I could see a glow around him. It was the most amazing experience, when we left I KNEW it was right and had major relief. I fully trust him and would put my life in his hands. 8-18-2003 I orginally went to Dr. Gooden in Augusta. He said that he didn't have an OR table big enough for me. Dr. Goodens staff was fine, I just wish someone there would have asked prior about my weight instead of waisting my time and the surgeons time. I was disappointed. This is just my opinion I would not recommend some to go to this surgeon. I was not impressed with his office or how his program was set up for the obese. I am now going to see Dr Burrowes in Atlanta on the 29th of October. 10-7-2003 I went to a Siminar for Dr. Duncan. I will say that I was quite impressed with this man. He is very smart, and had great dry humor! I would recommend him to anyone. His program is very well set up and he took the time after the siminar to talk with me personally. He only now does the Lap RNY. He does however have associates that do the open percedure too. I sent my packet to them and I'm suppose to go see him on November 20th. Provided I pick him to do the surgery. 10-29-2003 Dr. Burrowes was a very informative, and smart man. The longer I sat and spoke to him the more I understood that he does this surgery for the soul reason to give someone their life back. His office was very nice. You can park on the 3rd level in the parking garage and go across the cross walk into the office building. Take the elevators to the 5th floor. It's not very far to walk. His office had chair with and with out arms. As a very comfortable couch. His staff was very kind and took their time with me. Once I got in the office I didn't wait to long. I was then taken back to get weighed and also they take your picture with some measurements. They had no problems with my husband accompanying me back there. We then watched a couple of videos. Dr. Burrowes is a huge fan of the Fobi pouch, which was designed by a surgeon in California (Mathias A. L. Fobi). (http://www.cstobesity.com) I knew going in that he was liked this percedure over the others. If you want to have that done you will have to pay out of pocket $4500. I told him that I could not get the funding for that and would prefer just the RNY without the Fobi. He had NO PROBLEM doing that. Infact he does SIX percedures. RNY, VBG, LAP-BAND, D/S DUODENAL SWITCH, and FOBI POUCH. He said that most insurance will only pay or allow the VBG and RNY. Any other would be out of pocket expense involved. My overall view of Dr. Burrowes was very impressed. He's definately on the HIGH end of the scale. His death rate is very low and he had done over 1000 of this surgery. He took the time to answer all my questions. He doesn't want an answer that day. He told me again all the risks involved. I got a very thick aftercare booklet that explained what I will be able to eat, things to expect, a long list of potential problems that can be resolved by the patient to cut down on calls to his office. It listed ideas for meals. I was extremely impressed. It also described what to expect 1-4 days. I guess what I most impressed about is how he does the percedure. He does it open with an incision of 2-3 inches long!! I know that he is a very skilled surgeon and feel this will be the one for me. 11-20-2003 Well, I decided to go see Dr. Duncan today. Just wanted to feel him out too. I was very disappointed. I knew before I went that he doesn't want you to gain weight, but he wants you to do that for 90 days supervised BEFORE he will do surgery. I understand him wanting to shink the liver, but when I've been trying to diet since May this made me somewhat upset. I've been doing all I can. Not to meantion I was told on the phone that Dr. Duncan would be there. NOPE! He had an associate take a look at all of us. I was told one on one and I'm very upset that I went 150 miles to not ever see the surgeon. Total waste of my time. The staff is friendly, but people need to be told before hand the truth. Hospital Reviews (Augusta, GA) - Medical College of GA (Augusta, GA) - St. Joseph Hospital Weight Loss Survey Responses Click Here To View Latest Surgery Support Comments Comment by AnnoyingLizard on 3/6/07 10:02 pm Just stopping by to say Thanks for doing such great things here on OH! Comment by Shelley M. on 2/14/07 9:54 am Just stopping by to say Hi and Happy Valentines Day!!! I hope you have a GREAT day! Shells Comment by TL on 1/27/07 11:09 pm Sending lots of get well wishes your way & for you to have a quick recovery. Take care of yourself.Click here for the surgery support page The Journey to the NEW ME! This is the story of my life's journey of winning the battle against Obesity! 9x pants to 20's! on March 12, 2007 11:36 am Well... If someone would have told me 3 years ago that I'd be in the place I am at now I really wouldn't have believed it. Many times I have to pinch myself because I feel like I am living a dream. Last night I held up the pants I once wore and tears came down my face. It was tears of joy for finally realizing that I'm no longer a prisoner of my body. Tears of sadness because...I was once in such a bad situation. Mostly tears of joy knowing how far I've come over these past 3 years. I got on the scale yesterday and I'm down another 2 pounds since having my tummy tuck. I'm thrilled! I keep taking any loss that I get, although I'm perfectly happy at the weight I'm at now. I've still got lots of skin in the lower half, so only time will tell if I do anymore plastics. Thankfully it seems my blood clot is better in my legs. The blood thinner is doing it's job. I'm looking forward to my trip out to California next month, lots of faces I've been wanting to meet or see again! I cannot wait. Here's some photos. As always thank you ALL for your support! 2 comments | Click here to leave a comment. MTV and other video links on March 6, 2007 10:58 pm I've had many people ask me over the years to send them a video or they missed the MTV segment I was on. I've been doing some google searching and stuff. I have finally figured out how to update them myself. If you are interested here are the links on Google and YouTube, just click on a link below. Some of the video is fuzzy because of the compression, but it's up! Tax break News segment This was a video done at my largest Entertainment Tonight segment MTV's segment Update since MTV segment When I watch these videos I cannot believe that use to be me.... 5 comments | Click here to leave a comment. Serious Situation Needing good vibes! on March 6, 2007 2:28 pm Last week I told you all about JoAnn's situation. She is homebound and unable to find a surgeon who will do the surgery on her at her size. She has not walked from her bed in 2 years. I need some very positive vibes, prayers, or candles lit. Anthing to give some good vibes. I submitted Joann's name for the documentary they are doing with TLC. The producer has called me even given that she is not in Texas as they had wanted and are in talks with the surgeons about possibly transporting Joann to Houston to do weight loss surgery. PLEASE pray for Joann. If this doesn't happen she is seriously going to die. She is about 660+ pounds and only 5 foot, that's a BMI around 128. This is a serious situation and might be the answer to all our prayers for her this past week. I've found out that she was taken last week after we talked back to the hospital for breathing problems again. She is in the hospital right now still. Thank you so much for everyone who has prayed for her already and sent cards. I don't think you all will ever know what this has done for her!! Update: Spoke with producer and they are unable to get her to Houston at this point. The surgeons in Houston have contacts where JoAnn is located so they are going to assist in trying to get her help locally. Keep praying. If you want to send JoAnn a card please contact me. Be the first to leave a comment. 2 months updated photos on March 4, 2007 5:23 am I posted last night I'd see about getting some new photos up for my scar from my tummy tuck. I just uploaded some new ones. It is 2 months today. I've lost an additional 36 pounds since this surgery! Here's the newest photos: Be the first to leave a comment. I can't believe it!! on March 3, 2007 7:06 pm Well, the tool is still working. It's now been almost 2 months since my reconstructive surgery. I've managed to lose more weight. It keeps going down, down, down. I had been pretty well stalled out for almost a year before my recent surgery. I've lost another 11 pounds! I can't believe it! That makes 36 pounds since my plastics. I've noticed my activity has really been better. I feel so much better about myself. This surgery has really changed how I feel about myself and my body. I no longer feel like I have to keep pulling my shirts down to cover my roll and I just feel more confident. I still have all this skin left, but I am happy! I'm thrilled about the results and the continued loss. So those who are further out, the weight loss can continue. I know mine had a lot to do with this skin removal, but it's still working even after almost 3 years. I'm 9 more pounds from losing 400 pounds. I can't even believe or NEVER imagined I would get this far. I'm going to make that my goal to get to 400 pounds lost. Stay encouraged, if I can do this I know all of you can too! I hope everyone is having a great weekend! I've been asked about some more photos showing the scars. I'll see about getting some up soon. 1 comment | Click here to leave a comment. My friend JoAnn needs support on February 28, 2007 11:39 pm I had posted on the main message board this: I just needed some support tonight. This weekend I got a call from an old friend. Some of you might remember Joann, we did a card shower for her last year. She is homebound. Weighing over 600 pounds. Things in her life didn't work out like she expected and her health has gone from bad to worse. She is literally dying in her home. I got off the phone crying because this woman feels so helpless, so alone, and she had been scared to call me because I might think she is a failure. Needless to say I don't think she's a failure. I'm not sure why I'm writing this here right now, but I guess because my heart is breaking for her. I want to help her, but I can't. I want her to live, but I can't. I can't help her fix herself. I'm just so heart broken. Please say a prayer for Joann, she feels so alone and I don't want her to die. Maybe we can do another card shower for her. If you are interested in sending her a card or letter of encouragement please email me [email protected] She needs to know people DO care. She has so much to live for, but is all alone. This is an update with my special message to those who have helped. I've been meaning to post about my message from the other day about my friend Joann. I just got settled enough in the hotel to make this video. The lighting is not the best, but the message is there. So please take a moment to watch my special OH thank you. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9hwQzudh9Uw JoAnn continues to need much support so if you would like to send her a letter or card, email or PM me for the information. Be the first to leave a comment. Browse pages: next > Archive March 2007 February 2007 January 2007 December 2006 November 2006 October 2006 September 2006 August 2006 July 2006 June 2006 May 2006 April 2006 March 2006 February 2006 January 2006 December 2005 November 2005 October 2005 September 2005 August 2005 July 2005 June 2005 May 2005 April 2005 March 2005 February 2005 January 2005 December 2004 November 2004 October 2004 September 2004 August 2004 July 2004 June 2004 May 2004 April 2004 March 2004 February 2004 January 2004 December 2003 November 2003 October 2003 September 2003 August 2003 July 2003 My Story My name is Amy Williams, many years now I've been a volunteer on Obesityhelp.com. I have come a long way since my appearance on MTV's True Life "I'm Obese". If you have not seen the video, the video is below. I truly have enjoyed the time I've given to this site to help other members. Currently I'm working as Member Service Manager for Obesityhelp.com. I have been a long time volunteer since 2003. I truly enjoy and love my job here, it's a blessing to be able to help members locate a surgeon in their area, to help members on the site, and just be supportive to answer questions about surgery on and off the site. I am very involved with running two local support groups. I love giving back to others along this journey and nothing makes me happier. I'm currently 2 1/2 years post-op and have lost 380 pounds. I'm 6 foot 3 inches. I could not ask to work for a better organization. Changing lives and seeing members get their lives back is truly my reward in this awesome job. Please feel free to Email Me or OH Staff Email Member Services for help. Articles and Media Links I've been featured in (You must have adobe reader to view the articles) Obesityhelp 2004 Article Bariatrics Today Magazine Article E Lymph Notes Article 2004 OH Magazine 2006 Article OH Magazine 2007 Article Entertainment Tonight 2004 MTV's True Life "I'm Obese" 2004 Click here to see video Local CBS update 2006 Click here to see video Click play on video below to see when I was on MTV's True Life, update above from CBS View Show Webpage Dedication: When I started looking into WLS, I was not very serious about it. I felt I would die from it and it scared me. One day while watching the Oprah Show, Oprah had a man on that weighed 863 pounds at one time. He had lost over 600 pounds from the gastric bypass. The surgeon only gave him a 40% chance to live. To see that he made it thru the surgery and was able to change his life is such an inspiration to people that are super morbidly obese. The sad part was not many months later "Big" Pete passed away from congestive heart failure. This man has changed more lives then he may never know about and I dedicate this page to him.... Please look him up on this site Peter Herida Augusta, Ga Area Obesityhelp Support Group If you are in the Augusta, Ga. area, sign up for the Obesityhelp Augusta Support Group online. It doesn't matter who your surgeon was, we are here to talk about issues related to WLS and just have fellowship/ friendship. I hope that you will join us. 2007 Schedule Our 2007 meeting are first Saturday at 2pm and first Wednesday at 7pm. Please visit our support group page for complete details of dates, times and locations. Click Here for complete details. Join the local Yahoo group to get support, click the link below Click to join Augusta WLS Support Group Click Here - To learn how to start a Obesityhelp Support Group in your area List of things I want to do 1. Drive Done! 2. Wash dishes without my back hurting Done! 3. Stand for over 10 minutes Done! 4. Walk to the bathroom without getting winded Done! 5. Tie my shoes Done! 6. Go to walmart and pick something off the rack Done! 7. fit in a regular bathroom stall instead of the handicap one Done! 8. take a shower standing up Done! 9. take a shower with hubby again! woohoo Done! 10. just get out of the house and not be ashamed Done! 11. be on the Oprah show 12. go back to college or get a dream job Done! 13. be able to sit in a chair with arms Done! 14. clean the whole house in one day (like I use to) Done! 15. walk a mile Done! 16. go to the Y and swim Done! 17. go to the mall and hang out Done! 18. see a movie in the threater Done! 19. go on a cruise 20. go snorkling 21. get rid of wheelchair Done! 22. go to my 10 year HS reunion Done! 23. have a make over Done! 24. be under 300 pounds Done! 25. go to a obesityhelp.com convention Done! 26. plant a garden 27. buckle seat belt without extentions Done! 28. go to church Done! 29. jog, skip, run Done! 30. dance Done! 31. have a child 32. go to glamour shots 33. be able to wear sexy underwear instead of "granny panties" LOL Done! 34. Go to Disneyworld Done! 35. see a broadway show 36. meet carnie wilson 37. fly on a plane Done! 3/05/2006 38. be able to walk on the beach and put my feet in the sand, feel the waves on my feet Done! 3/12/2006 39. get a manicure and pedicure Done! 40. be able to get my hair "professionally cut" FIT IN THE CHAIR! Done! 41. buy regular shoes for women Done! 42. wear jeans Done! 43. Go to someone's house with out the fear of breaking toilet, or furniture Done! 44. be social again Done! 45. go to a party (just to say I did) Done! 46. Get out of my wheelchair Done! 47. Speak in front a large crowd Done! 48. Be in a magazine Done! 49. Spread more awareness for Lymphedema Done and still doing it! 50. Help advocate for other people that are obese and need help Done and still doing it! 51. Run a support group Done! MY WEIGHT LOSS CHART AND RECENT PICTURE WEIGHT LOSS CHART Date Weight Pounds Lost Total Pounds Lost BMI 2/16/2004 615 N/A N/A 79.0 5/27/2004 570 -45 lbs -45 lbs 73.2 6/07/2004 557 -13 lbs -58 lbs 71.5 6/14/2004 525 -32 lbs -90 lbs 67.4 6/24/2004 510 -15 lbs -105 lbs 65.5 7/13/2004 504 -6 lbs -111 lbs 64.7 7/21/2004 501 -3 lbs -114 lbs 64.3 8/06/2004 480 -21 lbs -135 lbs 61.6 8/16/2004 475 -5 lbs -140 lbs 61.0 8/27/2004 463 -12 lbs -152 lbs 59.4 9/03/2004 457 -6 lbs -158 lbs 58.7 9/20/2004 449 -8 lbs -166 lbs 57.6 10/02/2004 443 -6 lbs -172 lbs 56.9 10/17/2004 429 -14 lbs -186 lbs 55.1 10/18/2004 427 -2 lbs -188 lbs 54.8 10/21/2004 423 -4 lbs -192 lbs 54.3 10/27/2004 421 -2 lbs -194 lbs 52.6 11/15/2004 412 -9 lbs -203 lbs 51.5 12/12/2004 402 -10 lbs -213 lbs 50.2 12/28/2004 395 -7 lbs -220 lbs 49.4 1/20/2005 390 -5 lbs -225 lbs 48.7 1/27/2005 382 -8 lbs -233 lbs 47.7 3/01/2005 365 -17 lbs -250 lbs 45.6 3/27/2005 360 -5 lbs -255 lbs 45.0 4/27/2005 338 -22 lbs -277 lbs 42.2 5/27/2005 335 -3 lbs -280 lbs 41.9 6/27/2005 314 -21 lbs -301 lbs 39.2 7/27/2005 307 -7 lbs -308 lbs 38.4 9/27/2005 293 -14 lbs -322 lbs 36.6 10/27/2005 275 -18 lbs -340 lbs 34.4 11/27/2005 275 -0 lbs -340 lbs 34.4 12/27/2005 283 +8 lbs (leg swelling) -332 lbs 34.4 1/27/2006 264 -19 lbs -351 lbs 33.0 12/6/2006 260 -4 lbs -355 lbs 32.4 2/4/2007 235 -25 lbs -380 lbs 29.4 3/4/2007 224 -11 lbs -391 lbs 28.0 Click to zoom in on my visitor map! 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