9 Years Today

Hi all,

Not sure if anyone remembers me, but I had my RNY on 12/13/04 and have been doing real well.  I'm now 63 years old, 5'8" tall and weigh about 180. 

Not saying the surgery was a snap, which it wasn't.  Not saying there were no issues, because there were some issues.  But overall, I have kept my weight down real well for these years and am in pretty good health other than a lung condition unrelated to my weight loss surgery.

Treatment for the lung condition included massive doses of Prednisone for 10 months.  Prednisone is a life-changing drug and it makes the patient and their appetite go ballistic.  It really does!  I am so thankful that he stood by me - not an easy thing.  Plus I gained over 45 pounds!  So now that treatment is finished, I have tried to lose the weight but haven't done so well - never really was a successful dieter without drastic assistance.  But I'm working on it.  I'm now wearing Size 10s but can still wear a few of my old clothes (Size 8).  I intend to get back into the single-digit sizes! 

RNY side effects have included low ferritin, which affects your body's iron supply.  This can develop into something dangerous, so I get IVs once in a while.  Now it is too high, so they're checking on this at the end of the month.  All my other labs are always good.  I do try to eat well and even now, it takes a conscious decision about everything I eat.

I want to send LOVE to all and especially to all the other old-timers! 

Wow, you've been through a lot! Glad to hear you're doing well now. I'm almost 63- my health and improving it is my main motivation.

I'm 7 years out this month from rny and holding at about 132...ive also had issues with iron and hypoglocemia...also have to take 2 probiotics a day for gas pain and bloating...but its been so worth it

I will be 8 years out on 1/16/14.  What specific probiotics do you take for gas and bloating?

The gas and bloating has increasingly gotten worse and I am so embarrassed at times. 

My stomach rumbles like a volcano.

Thank you in advance.

Sorry about lung problem and low iron

Nine years in March for me--no health problems.  Labs good.  Have gained 20 lbs since lowest.  Can not seem to lose it.  Walk two miles a day.  Work on getting in enough protein and take vitamins.   

Ruby, it sounds like you are doing really great!  My biggest shortcoming is lack of exercise, partly brought on by some broken bones, etc., but mostly by my laziness.  I am glad to hear how well you are doing.

Sorry about broken bones.  I know that makes it tough trying to exercise.  i am going to try to get in a little more walking, but if I walk l walk more than my two miles a day, the front of my legs below the knees hurt--can't think what you call it.  Also want to log my food.  I have a really hard time doing that.  

I find I have to make exercising my first priority and everything else a distant second, just because I hate doing it so much. But I do feel so much better afterwards, and it helps me stay strong the rest of the day.

Congratulations Kitty!

I'm a year ahead of you.  I haven't been on OH in years, and all of my info is gone.  It's OK, new beginnings and all...

Prednisone is a miserable drug.  The fact that you survived it is all that matters.  I too, have low ferritin.  It just showed up this year!

I'm so glad to see old timers on the site.  I'm looking for nutritional support.

Keep up the good work,

Thanks for your post!