Howdy Fellow Ohioans

Andi ~ I would LOVE to see 179 again! Actually, anything under 200 would be the thrill of a life time. I'm so glad that you had the surgery now though and not 20 years ago. From what I hear, the surgery is much improved now. However, I'm sure if there is someone here on the board who knows otherwise, they'll let me know about it too! You know, it's funny, I've been so focused on the health end of the spectrum that I haven't even *allowed* myself to think of the "fun" side...I mean, I forgot what it's like to shop for myself and ENJOY it. Hey, I might even be able to share clothes with my 17yo daughter (she is actually a very practical dresser, so I won't look out of my league [no thongs or low cut jeans, although she has such a nice shape I wish she would live a little. ]) And it would be great to receive clothes as gifts again. I don't know, but when I think about those things, I feel a little guilty and I'm not sure why. Something I guess I'll have to pursue at another time. Nice meeting you, Andi!

P.S. I was totally kidding about my daughter though ~ as a mother, I can't tell you how relieved I am when she goes out fully clothed and covered.

Welcome Aboard Laura! I was not afraid either. I had so much confidence in my surgeon. I will be keeping you in my prayers. Congratulations on getting this far. Good Luck on your new journey... God Bless! Hugs Julie

Thanks for the encouragement, Julie!

Laura where are you having your surgery and who is your surgeon?? BTW Good morning. I finally slept from 6:30 until now. But its time to get up and get the day rolling. Love ya already.. Laura

Hi Laura! I'm glad you were able to get *some* sleep. Did Miss Anna Daphne cuddle with you, too? I'm having my surgery at the Cleveland Clinic. My surgeon is Philip Schauer. He used to be at UPMC in Pittsburgh but was recruited by CCF. From what I'm told, he has been there a little less than a year but has made major improvements to their baratric surgery program. They even remodeled the bariatric surgery unit to his specs, making it much more user-friendly to those of us who are "diametrically-challenged." I think that's great and all, but I would rather squeeze into a chair and be well-cared for than have a nice, spacious bed but have to lean on the call-button an hour or more. So I'm hoping that with the new changes in structure, there will also be an emphasis on care. Where did you have your surgery?

I had my surgery at OSU Hospital in Cols and my surgeon was Dr Dean Mikami. I absolutely love him, but wasnt thrilled with the after care at the hospital. I didnt get one of the nice bariatric suites and had to share a room with a lady who had a million visitors and round the clock phone calls. But like I said, I knew I had the right surgeon for me. He swore to me that he would make every attempt to do the lap RNY and I wasnt so sure he could do it with my 5 c sections and hysterectomy. I had so many adhesions he said I was a mess inside. He patiently cleaned me up and did the RNY by Lap. I was up and walking that night and had very little pain afterwards. I am so happy that you are so close to your surgery date.. Yeee Ha!!! Hugs, Laura BTW.. Its so windy here that I almost just blew away. LOL

Oh goodness...same here with the wind! Late this morning I found my baskets of mums blown all over the yard, as well as the neighbor's chairs! Say good-bye to all the leaves... Your surgeon sounds like an angel. I am so glad he was able to do the lap. The difference in recovery is just astounding. I can't believe it...12 days to go!!!

Hi Laura. I had my surgery on Sept 28th and I have lost 38 pounds. I couldnt be happier. It was the best decision I have ever made. I do miss food sometimes but not often enough to regret it. I no longer need my glucophage for my diabetes. That in itself was worth every bit of the surgery. Good luck to you. You will be very happy!! It is not going to be an easy road but it will be so worth it. Unfortunately food has always been an over weight persons crutch. THAT MUST CHANGE!! And it will. Keep us informed as to how you do. This is a great place to share, vent, and beg for help =) Hugs Bobbi

Hi Laura my surgery is the 15th! I am not nervous anymore and look forward to getting it done!