Question:
Please help Eric write to Carnie Wilson.
Carnie Wilson (musician daughter of Beach Boy's Brian Wilson, 11 months post op) has been here a few times and I'm asking her to consider possibly being more involved with supporting our site in any number of ways. If you think this site is worth promoting to others, please write her a brief letter (paragraph) beginning with "Dear Carnie, " describing how this site has helped you and how in particular others might benefit if she mentioned it to others. What particular features does this site have that are unavailable elsewhere, and how are they meaningful or beneficial? Perhaps at some time in the future, she might decide to help promote the site. I'll be mailing all your responses to her later this week. Thank you! — ericklein (posted on July 18, 2000)
July 18, 2000
Dear Carnie,
— Janell S.
July 18, 2000
Dear Carnie,
I am a whole new person thanks to WLS and this wonderful website. I
have met many wonderful and beautiful people. I have been battling this
weight issue for many years and I have you to thank for giving me the final
push. I read that you were having the surgery and that lit my fire. I
waited til I could wee how well you were doing until I finally scheduled my
date. I am happy to say that I am 4 months post op and have lost 125 lbs.
YEAH!!! I still have about 100 lbs to go but I know I can do it. This web
site is my life saver and I tip my hat to everyone on board. Everyone here
is so helpful and any time I have a down day all I have to do is enter and
I am happy when I leave. I would very much enjoy it if we could have you
aboard as I have been trying to thank you for months. Good Luck with your
new marriage (love the pictures). Hope to chat soon.
— Natalie Q.
July 18, 2000
Dear Carnie,
I am one month post op. I had open rny. Thanks to this site I found a
wonderful doctor in my area. I also got all the research material I needed
to make my decision about wls. Thanks to all the supportive people on the
chat line, I got the courage to take that final step. Now, I am on the
journey of my life. Thanks to amos!!!! I feel that all the love and support
on this site would help others that feel there is no hope. Brynda
— brynda F.
July 18, 2000
DEAR CARNIE, HOPE U LIKE THIS WEB SITE IT IS THE BEST SUPPORT EVER. I WOULD
NEVER HAVE HAD THE STRENTH TO FOLLOW THRU TO THIS POINT IF IT WERE NOT FOR
THIS SITE AND THE GREAT PEOPLE HERE. I FOUND MY DR. HERE ALSO AND A LOT OF
FRIENDS IN MY AREA.
— Diana V.
July 18, 2000
I would like to tell you how much this site has helped me in the last year.
I was letting life pass me by while my family was out enjoying life. I knew
at 374 pounds I couldnt do any of the things they were doing. I was
researching WLS and found this site. I have gotten so much support and
useful information here. I dont think I would have had the courage to do
this without obesityhelp. I thank God as each pound comes off. I am here to
LIVE now!! Thank you!
— laucol
July 18, 2000
Dear Carnie, I found this site through your support group on ADIYH. I
thank god for finding both of these sites, as they have been tremendously
supportive of me and my struggle. I am now a week away from my surgery
with Dr. Schauer in Pittsburgh! While I was researching this surgery
before I even knew you were having surgery, you have been instrumental in
getting the word out about this surgery, which has opened up even more
avenues for myself and others to research this surgery and determine if it
is for them. Thank you, Carnie, and I hope that you do stop by more
often!!!! You are doing so wonderful!!!
— Cindy S.
July 18, 2000
Dear Carnie, I can not begin to tell you what obesityhelp.com has meant and
does mean to me. This site is a WORLD of good and true info. There is
always an answer to any question that you may have. There is always someone
to cheer with you and cry with and for you. I had a LAP RNY in April and I
do believe that without this site I could not have made such an educated
decision. I had all the answers before I went to the surgeon for visit #1.
I went to surgery without any fears at all. I did not ever think of
changing my mind after I reasearched the good and bad on through this site.
It is very easy to get around the site. If it had not been, a computer
dummy, like me, could not have used it. The members are great. Victoria
Bowen is getting together a Losers 2001 reunion for us in April in Branson.
She has really been working hard to organize it all by herself. I think
that speaks very highly of the members here. Others help by just posting
encouragement all day long. I get worried when I don't see the regulas post
one day. They feel that much like family. Give us a try, it's a good place
to come to. By the way, how's that new hubby?
— Debra M.
July 18, 2000
Dear Carnie,
Watching your surgery on the net was the best information I had found.
Thank you so much. I haven't heard anything of your progress and wish I
had. I know you are on the T.V. but I always miss it. This site is great
and wish you could be on here with us. Think about it PLEASE!
— Beth S.
July 18, 2000
Dear Carnie, this site has been an invaluable source of information to me
during my weight loss journey. I've been coming here for a year and I can
always find support and answers to my questions. We are all like one big
family (although not a perfect family!) and the people are here to give
their support and experience to others who need it. At the begining of my
WLS journey I became frustrated with all the red tape so I came to this
site and posted a letter asking for support. I received the sweetest
letters from people which really picked me up. I also wanted to thank you
for making your surgery public and inspiring thousands of people to look
into WLS. People respect you and your weight loss efforts so I believe
your endorsement of this site would help many people. I also wanted to say
thanks for inspiring me to go ahead with WLS...I'm 3.5 months postop and
down 76 lbs so far. I know this surgery saved my life.
— Kellie L.
July 18, 2000
Dear Carnie, I can not begin to tell you what this site has meant to me. I
had open RNY in May , and whenever I have doubts , fears , or frustrations
there are always well informed compassionate people here to help me out. We
are like a family of weight loss surgery patients, very close and special.
This site is my main support emotionally through this surgery and my new
life. If even one person learns of this site , and gets the correct
information concerning weight loss surgery, I will be happy. I tell
everyone that asks about the surgery about the website here, and send them
the url when I write to them. It is the best site on the web with REAL
people who are going through , or have gone through the same things as I
have.
— Heather T.
July 18, 2000
Carnie:
I think you should or could help others by promoting obesityhelp.com as a
fantastic support group! I don't have a local support group, so I come on
daily and chat with others who are somewhere in the process themselves.
We're like one big family. I hope you are doing well and always look
forward to an update on your progress. Best wishes.
— Cindy H.
July 18, 2000
Dear Carnie, Obesityhelp.com has helped me tremendously, by its wealth of
information and support. If it were not for this site I would not have
known that there were so many different types of weight loss surgeries and
that each one affects your body in different ways. IF you could mention
Obesityhelp.com to others they too could see how benifical this site is.
Not only is there a lot of information on there that you cant find anywhere
else but there is also a large amount of support. If you have questions or
concerns the answers or advice is right here at this site. I feel that
anyone who is considering having weight loss surgery should give
Obesityhelp.com a look at because they will find it very helpful and
insightful of what to expect from weight loss surgery. Thank you.
Patricia Adler
— Patricia A.
July 18, 2000
Dear Carnie,
I have been considering WLS for several years. I had to admit you going
public definitely helped in my decision. This site was really assisted me
in reading everyones experiences and asking so many questions. In years
past, I would find web sites for particular doctors that would explain the
procedures but it is nothing like this. This actually has real people and
you can ask everything from the doctor you choose to the insurance you
have. I must say that it has helped me tremendously. Thanks, Jackie
— Jackie S.
July 18, 2000
Dear Carnie, Congratulations on your success! I have been following your
progress from the very start. When we first learn of wls there are so many
questions, fears, and excitement that we want and need to absorb all the
information and support that we can. I am so thankful for the site here at
AMOS. I have been a member for a year and I had my surgery in April. I
researched surgeons, insurance companies, various surgery types, and I
talked to many people about all aspects of the surgery in the chat room.
This site is responsible for my new lease on life. I am here off & on
daily. The Q & A is a wealth of information. I love to answer
questions to help others when I can. We all learn from each other. You
could and should do the same. This is the best web site and I have seen
most of them. I hope you will consider being active here. We are all in
this together! Janice King
— Janice K.
July 18, 2000
Dear Carnie-
You know, I posted a message at your site and I wasn't really respectful to
the people there. In fact I had to argue with Eric the Moderator to
actually get him TO post it. His concern was that what I was posting was
not exactly good business for the site, which was TRUE, but the seriousness
of this procedure made me want to get it posted still. Nevertheless, the
others let me know right away that what I did, was not right (and while my
intentions were not meant to be harmful) I was just too negative and I see
that now. They were right and to clear things up, I apologized for my post
and now I just lurk and shut up.
I still lurk is because WLS is important to me, helping people is too. I
feel that your notoriety, while good, brings people to your site, which is
not doing all it can do or being all it can be. A lot of the newcomers
think they can "chat" with you directly, and that you will answer
them. I feel for those people. Occaasionally, I contact the new posters
directly with a POSITIVE :) post on WLS and a link to visit this site for
detailed answers to their questions. I receive nothing but thanks in
return.
Again- I am not trying to knock your site. Your site is great for a
supportive, chatty arena, and I love reading updates about your success.
But I feel, when people see you on shows like 48 hrs etc., and then visit
your site, it is not capable of supporting all of them on this journey.
I feel your association with this site would be positive. You would have
peace of mind knowing that all the people you attract are getting advice
and individual attention. The database is quite impressive. The message
board is great. The organization of surgery dates, surgeons, hospitals and
insurance etc. is what everyone is looking for. I cannot say enough about
this site! I do hope you decide to check us out. I think it is what you
may have had in mind, when you started at ADIYH. I do hope you consider
us. Eric Klein (and others) have spent so much time & energy on this
great place to learn, I feel priviledged to be a member.
Karen
— Karen R.
July 18, 2000
Dear Carnie,
I want you to know that you are the one responsible for helping me see the
light.
I was very fortunate one day to be waiting for my (always late friend),
when I
read your article in "People Magazine". It was a life changing
moment. I had
been so depressed about my weight, and was at my whit's end. I had just
been
told that I have PCOS (Poly Cystic Ovarian Sydrome). I was trying to face
the
reality that I will probably never lose the weight, that had been my
capture for
almost my whole life.
I am also a newlywed, and was scard out of my mind about trying to start a
family
while living as an obese person, that is "if" I could start a
family. ( PCOS can
cause infertility) When I read that article, it dawned on me that there is
a way
out. I called my Doctor that day. I live in Canada, and the wait here for
surgery
is staggering, it will be 3 1/2 months of waiting when I finally get in for
a
consultation. If I qualify for surgery, (which shouldn't be a problem) I
will have
to wait another 6-12 months for surgery. So you can see that with all of
this
waiting, I could possible go insane. But thanks to this site, I won't. (
at least
I hope I won't) LOL. Everybody that I have talk with on this site have
been very
supportive and welcoming. I have found the Q&A board very helpful, and
insightful.
Out of all the sites that I have been to this is the one that I have
bookmarked,
and it is the one that I visit everyday. I really feel that you joining
this site
will benefit so many more people. You have already helped me, by you
joining this
site, you can enable myself and other to help people that are also
"Looking for a
way out".
— Bluefever
July 18, 2000
Dear Carnie, You have done a lot for those of us suffering from obesity
already by going public with your surgery. I want to thank you for that.
I feel you could do a lot more to help all of us that are still fighting
the battle and waiting for surgery by becoming a sponsor for this site.
Eric has done a great job in putting this site together. It is definetly
the best support that I have. I have friends and family but only a few
really relate to the problem. Everyone here relates to our problems. By
lending your name to the site I'm sure it would benefit all of us. Please
consider the request. Thank you for sharing your success.
— Patsy H.
July 18, 2000
Dear Carnie:
Thank you for taking the time to read our letters. ObesityHelp.com has
been an unending resource of support for myself and many of the friends I
have met through this site. The Message Board and Q&A section are my
particular favorites. I now have relationships from this site that I know
will last me a life time.
Congratulations on your success. You are an inspiration to all of us, and
you are doing a wonderful thing bringing out information regarding to WLS
to the people that needed it.
Sincerely,
Kim Franklin
Open RNY 04/12/00
Beginning at 297
Currently at 230
67 lbs gone forever!
— kimberly1224
July 18, 2000
Dear Carnie,
Thank you for sharing your surgery on 48 hours. You opened the door to a
new life for many of us. You can continue to help by supporting
obesityhelp.com. I do not have a local support group so I visit this site
everyday. I am always encouraged and inspired with the wonderful people
who post here. It is important that we know we are not alone in our fight
for life and that there is always someone who understands what we are going
through and is willing to help us get through it - whatever the problems.
Please help Eric bring this wonderful site to others out there who
desperately need our help.
— Saundra V.
July 18, 2000
Dear Carnie - Congratulations on all of the changes that have occurred in
your life in the past 11 months. And, I wanted to tell you that it takes a
very brave person to be able to do all of those changes in the public eye.
I salute you for your courage. Now, about this site, I have made some
wonderful friends on this site. People who feel what I have felt in the
past, feel now, and give me hope for a better future. Having been obese
all of my life, I never felt "normal" anywhere - until I found
this site and since my decision to have my weight loss surgery. On days
when things look a little less bright, there are always people here to lift
my spirits and they allow me to do the same on their "blue" days.
The most unique thing about this site is that we are a "family."
We cry for each other in times of struggle, we support each other, and we
share each other's joys. Now, I ask you, where can you find that anywhere
else??? P.S. If you contact Victoria Bowen, who is planning the Big Loser's
Reunion in Branson, maybe you might even join us for some fun - who knows?
Thanks for listening and keep up the good work ! Diane C.
— Diane C.
July 18, 2000
Dear Carnie,
If it weren't for your surgery as shown on television I never would have
taken the step to improve my life by having surgery. Like you, I have
suffered from being overweight for most of my life. I had reached the end
of the rope when I heard that you were having surgery. I contacted four
surgeons to find out more information. I tried to find different sites on
the internet to further educate myself when I came across
obesityhelp.com... This site has been a blessing in that finally I am able
to communicate with others who suffer as I have. Also, the website has many
different ways of telling the story of people who suffer from
obesity(ie...photos, quesions/answer posting, etc). Thankyou for your
contribution. Thankyou for helping those people who have/do suffer from
obesity.
— twenc
July 19, 2000
— Danny R.
July 19, 2000
Dear Carnie,
First, I just want to say hello to you and thank you for enlightening
people to what strugles obese people have to go thru. You, I belive have
brought this type of surgery out of the closet and let obese people know
there is hope to live a normal life. I was looking into having weight loss
surgery for a while, but I could never bring myself to actualy go thru with
it. Then just recently I was finding out, alot of people I personally know
who just had this surgery or will be having it. It seemed to me that this
was something I had to follow up on. Kind of a good omen thing. So I was
fortunate enough to have stumbled on this Obesity Weight Loss sight, and
let me tell you, this was the best thing i've seen in a long time. There is
so much information that goes on here and the people are the best. I think
that with your help this can be an awsome sight and people really look up
to you for your strength and bravery for doing what you did infront of
millions of people. I have my surgey date for August 2 and I cant wait. I
feel like I'm being paroled from a prison, which no one can ever know what
it's like unless you are an obese person. I just want to say kudos to you
and god bless, because you have started a whole new trend,lol. Look at
this, just as I was typing this for you, I just got a call from my Doctors
office saying the insurance company has approved everything and it's a
go...you have no idea of how I feel right now, I feel like crying.....but
its hard to type and cry,lol. Thank you for everything Carnie and I'll see
ya on the other side,lol. Frank :-)
— Frank R.
July 19, 2000
Dear Carnie: Thank you for being so outspoken about your choice to have
this surgery. Seeing how well you have done, helped my self and my husband
to re-open the disscussion of whether or not I should have this procedure
done. I also don't think I could have made this decision with out being
involved with this site. The information I have received and the people
who I have been talking to are so helpful. Your input and support of this
site would help more people like us find a place where we are cared for.
Thank you.
— Carrie M.
July 19, 2000
Dear Carnie,
The WLS site has been an indespensable tool for me prior to and after my
surgery. I had WLS on 6/13/00 and was able to receive loads of information
from the Obesityhelp.com site. Also, there are live chats with people from
around the world where I am able to vent about things going on with me,
help others going through a situation I have been through or just be a
sympathetic ear to someone who needs one. I have also made friends on line
whom I talk to on the phone and am able to connect with people from around
the country I would not otherwise have the opportunity to do so. I hope
you will be able to support this site in any way you can. It seems that
any publicity it can get will give more people the opportlunity to find out
about this life saving surgery.
— Sandra A.
July 19, 2000
Dear Carnie- I had WLS 3 years ago. I wish I had this site back then to
help with the decisions of choosing a doctor, hospital, types of surgery,
support from others in the same situation, the "scoop" on
insurance companies and/ or things to expect before during and after
surgery. Today, I know that I can find the answer to any question I have
by coming to this site first. There is always someone who has experience
and can lead me to an answer. You promoting this website will help bring
this information to people with questions. Thanks in Advance.
— Cindy G.
July 19, 2000
Carnie,
I believe this site has given me a well informed research and support on
my decision to have WLS, I had my LAP RNY on 6-6-2000, I continue to come
to this board for encouragement and for the information you may want to
find out after surgery in the question and answer board.This site is a
valuable contribution when researching , and I would highly recommend it to
anyone!It is my favorite site to visit on WLS...You would be doing someone
a big favor by passing this informtion on!!I am -40 lbs....
— Tami A.
July 19, 2000
Dear Carnie,
Please consider supporting obesityhelp.com. this site has proved to be most
beneficial to me, as well as others who are in our situation.
This site has virtually been my entire support system before and after WLS.
I am 7 months post and 10 pounds from goal, and I would like to see others
who would like to have this type of surgery recieve the type of support
that is so vital for the success of weight loss surgery.
Thank you for considering, Pam Garcia (Pam in SC)
— Pam G.
July 19, 2000
Dear Carnie, How great itd be to have your support on this site!! I have
been a fan of yours since the Wilson Phillips days. The
song "Hold ON" pratically saved my life back in the early 90s. I
have been
struggling with my eight since the third grade and to you go on ET and
publicly announce your struggles and that you were going to havethe WLS
was
such a great thing you did for all of us who are struggling with our
weight.
You showed great courage and strength. And now cjoi us in our fight. Ithik
your a true and nspiration and wish you the best in life. Take care
carnie!!!!!!
— kim H.
July 19, 2000
THANK YOU CARNIE
DEAR CARNIE I JUST HAVE TO SAY THANK YOU. I WATCHED YOU BACK IN AUGUST OF
99
AND THOUGHT WHAT A BRAVE WOMAN. NEARLY A YEAR LATER I WENT HAD ROUX EN Y
AND
AM NOW 7 WEEKS POST OP AND FEELING LIKE A NEW PERSON. YOU HAVE SHOWN MANY
OVERWEIGHT PEOPLE THAT THERE IS HELP OUT THERE SO WE COULD ALL HAVE A
BETTER
QUALITY OF LIFE AGAIN THANK YOU.
— DEBBIE B.
July 19, 2000
Carnie, First, congratulations on your wedding plans! Thank you for
sharing
your story. That is what got the seed planted for me to consider this
surgery. We are close to the same age and I went to WW camp and that
caught
my attention when hearing your story. Also, when you said that insurance
sometimes pays for this surgery that really got me thinking. I am 8 weeks
post-op and it has already improved my life. I am having so much fun with
my
husband and little boy (2 1/2). I can keep up with them and I don't sit on
the sidelines anymore. You have made a positive impact in my life.
— Tanya F.
July 19, 2000
Dear Carnie: This Site Saved My Life! I had WLS 10 months ago. The only
reason that I decided to do so was because of this site and the wonderful
people in the chat room and on the message boards. I also found my surgeon
here. I was one of those, like the man you just helped out, on the higher
end of the weight scale. I weighed 530 pounds the day of my surgery, and
was
nearly housebound, and dying at the age of 35. Then I came to
ObesityHelp.com and all that changed! I met people who helped me and
chatted
with me about the pros and cons of WLS. Now, I try to do the same for
them.
I have lost 243 pounds in 10 months, and now I have a life. I used to just
wait for the mortician to arrive. Congratulations on your success and your
marriage. You look wonderful...and your happiness shines through.
Blessings,
Cindy Lou Clemens http://www.cyberenet.net/~cclemens/pics.html
— Cindy Lou C.
July 19, 2000
Dear Ms. Wilson,
First of all I want to commend and thank you for having the
courage to share your personal WLS experience with the world.
When I saw that you had done this it gave me more incentive
to keep researching. This was how I found this awesome web
site. There is so much stigma associated with being over-
weight and it is such a relief to have a safe place to come
to daily where there is no stigma, no shame and no shoulds.
I have learned what I needed to learn in order to make some
clear decisions on how to get what I want and need during
this process. Plus I have 24hour support whenever I need it
and I am part of the support if someone needs it from me.
WLS has created a positive network of support and information
about a topic that is just not talked about. I hope that
you will visit often. Take good care of yourself and lets
us know about your progress. Lydia= [email protected]
— Lydia H.
July 19, 2000
Dear Carnie, you don't realize what an inspiration you are to people, that
have been battling weight loss for a lifetime. We always fight the battle,
but never win the war! I started researching wls in April of this year, and
remember saying years ago that if there was a surgery that had more success
stories than failures, I would have it if at all possible. Well, this is
the beginning of my new life, you shared it with the world, and I want to
share it with everyone on this site. This site has helped me be in control
again and look forward to living. My surgery will be in August and I am
ready to start living again. Thank you for being one of us.
— smul3
July 19, 2000
Dear Carnie, I am so grateful that you have given people all over the world
the opportunity to share in your struggle with Morbid Obesity. So many of
us have given up hope, trying every New Diet, or New Pill that comes on the
market, only to be disappointed when our efforts fail us yet again. By
going Public with your struggle and your progress, you have given many
people New Hope. Hope that maybe at last there is a way to put an end to
the misery that we suffer. When it was announced that you would have
surgery on the internet, I was not supportive as I am now. Basically I was
still in Denial. Not that I denied that I was Morbidly Obese, only that it
was time, actually past time to seriously consider a surgical solution.
Until this spring I would not have even considered listening to anyone that
suggested WLS. But then I had a "Reality Check" and I finally had
a Doctor with the right approach. After that I began doing research, and
the first thing I did was get on the internet and look for information
about You and Your surgery:) Early on in my research I came across a
listing for obesityhelp.com. I spent nearly 2 days looking through the
entire website. Reading every word, looking at all the before & after
pics, checking out the Q & A page, and the message postings. The more I
read the more I knew that I had waited long enough. I was ready to regain
my Life and my Health. The amount of information available through
obesityhelp.com can be of great assistance to anyone with questions
regarding any type of WLS. The site is extremely user friendly and the
members are more than happy to share their experiences, good or bad with
anyone who asks. This site is not "Sugar Coated", some people
have complications and some have even died. However, all aspects are
covered and discussed, nothing is hidden, thus allowing people to make
informed choices regarding the suitability of WLS for their own life and
health. It is my hope that you can let more people know about the
information and support available here at obesityhelp.com. Come for a visit
and stay awhile:) Thank You again for all you've done to promote WLS as a
viable option that is available for those of us suffering from Morbid
Obesity:) Warm Healing Skinny Thoughts to All:)
— Barbara I.
July 19, 2000
Carnie, Just wanted you to know that I have always loved your singing, and
that you are such a great person to open up your life to all of us. I have
folled your surgery, and your weight loss. I know you have touched so many
lives, and now I hope to have this surgery done for myself soon. Thanks,
and hope you and Rob have a wonderful life together. Please join us at this
site. Glenda
— Glenda S.
July 19, 2000
Dear Carnie,
Hope all is going wonderfully for you. This site has
been a source of terrific information and support for all
those who have visited. I am currently setting a date for my
surgery (vbg) and probably wouldn't be that far if I didn't
get all the answers I wanted from everyone here. Come back
and visit all of us, we would love to have your input and
presence on the site.
— michelle B.
July 20, 2000
Dear Carnie,
I have really enjoyed reading about your surgery. The courage you have has
convinced me that I too can do this and everything will be fine. This site
has been so informative and I hope that more people could learn about this
site. Please consider promoting this site. I think that there is never
too much information on the supernet highway. Congratulations and
"Remember Who You Are", not just an obese individual or a thin
individual but a BEAUTIFUL CREATION THAT GOD HAS CREATED AND HAS FOUND YOU
PRECIOUS IN HIS SIGHT, NO MATTER WHAT SIZE."
Sincerely,
Nadia Shaya
— N S.
July 20, 2000
Carnie, I'm sending wishes for you the New Bride and Her
Groom..congrates..May God bless you both Regarding you maybe helping out
more with this site it's up to you if you wish to help with this site..It
would be wonderful, but I'm not asking anything from you, If you feel like
you would be able to help others out plus yourself, given you got the
time..Super..if not I'm sure people within the group would truly
understand. I'm sure this happens all the time..people always trying to get
something out of you..But in all honestly it a great site you know that. I
sure wish you would right some song about some big girl, becoming small and
how different she's then treated and yet she the same person after all. I
would love to help write that one! But Carnie, I watched you on dateline..
it really helped me.out. For I didn't know that surgery was out there to
help us big ones out....And I wish to THANK YOU for that. It was my
lifesaver and I'm post-op 5mths and almost 70pds gone! Your Truly Darla
[email protected]
— Darla N.
July 20, 2000
Carnie, you have been an inspiration to me for years. Always being proud
of who you were and successful in yourself and your ventures. As a Hospice
nurse, I am well in tuned to my patients morbidity as well as my own. To
die of a diease which I can control, through surgery, is awful. I have
finally been approved by my insurance company and am scheduled for surgery
8/16/00. What a wonderful thing it would be to have you come to this
website and visit all of us. You are truly an angel, and we love you!
Congratulations on your marriage. May you have a wonderful life together
and attain God's richest blessings!
— Joi D.
July 20, 2000
Dear Carnie: Your success and enthusiasm concerning the RNY surgery
convinced me to give this option a second look. I am now scheduled for an
RNY at Shands Hospital at the University of Florida, Gainesville, with Dr.
Michael Hocking -- Wednesday,July 26th is the BIG DAY!! Thanks for sharing
your experiences with us - continued success to you in all your endeavors!
— Janis P.
July 20, 2000
Dear Carnie:
First, congratulations on your success and your new marriage. I wish you
continued success and much happiness. You are such an inspiration! It would
be wonderful if you could help promote this site. It has been such a
benefit to me personally. What an effect you could have combined with this
informative site!
Thank You.
Rene`
— Rene` B.
July 20, 2000
Dear Carnie, because of this site I have a life today! I
want you to know that you have always been an inspiration to me.
I have followed your career for years ("Hold On" has become my
mantra for life!), and I've always thought you were
beautiful, talented, and someone I would just LOVE to sit down
and drink a beer with! LOL! *g* Seriously though... this is THE best
site I have found for weight loss surgery. I have found so much support
here, and there just isn't another site like it. I hope you will lend
your
support to Eric in any way you can, so that others might benefit as well.
Congratulations
on your marriage and on your weight loss - you are such a beautiful woman.
When I grow up,
I hope to be just like you! Blessings, Lisa Price
http://www.angelfire.com/in/blwed/wls.html
— Lisa P.
July 20, 2000
Dear Carin, Congratulations!! on your great weight lost. i first heard of
AMOS was from your site, wow!! this site has been aGod sent to me, there is
so much knowledge here & support. Please come & visit us any time.
Sincerely,
— jeannie O.
July 20, 2000
Congratulations Carnie!!! It seems your life is definitely moving in the
right direction. Just a few words to let you know that you are the reason
I've even considered this surgery. I saw you on TV just a few months ago
and saw the "transformation" post-op. You seemed so alive an
happy and wasn't afraid to let the world know how the surgery benefitted
you; I personally would love to see your postings on a regular basis as
well as letting everyone here on the site know how well your progressing.
Here's to the wonderful, spirited, adventurous life you deserve.
— Kimberly D.
July 20, 2000
Dear Carnie: You're my inspiration, the moment I saw your struggle
and plans for the RNY on national Television, I got online and
researched every site that I could find.. I'm a regular to posting on
your ADITH website and http://www.obesityhelp.com it also is a open
forum sounding board that answered all my questions and fears..logging on
your site and AMOS saved my life.. there is NO doubt in my mind. I am
so grateful that you have given people all over the world the opportunity
to share in your struggle with Morbid Obesity sometimes it takes a
celebrity to make the difference and for that I'll be forever grateful
for making this a very public issue and letting other obese people know
that morbid obesity is now treatable with surgery. So many of us have
given up hope, trying every New Diet know to man, or new wonder drug
that comes on the market, only to be disappointed over and over again by
regaining the weight plus more on top of that... By going Public with
your struggle and your progress, you have given many people New Hope. You
gave me hope..Hope that maybe at last there is a way to put an end to the
misery that we all have suffered with obesity. When it was announced that
you would have surgery on the Internet, I was thrilled and excited and
very supportive for you as I am now of your accomplishments. I was
Morbidly Obese, actually way past time to seriously consider a surgical
solution. I researched every surgery option and decided RNY was for
me.. I had surgery 12/8/99 in Nasville, Tenn. with Dr. Husted my
beginning weight was 367 and now 6 months later is 235... The AMOS
site is extremely easy to maneuver for PC uses and webtv..the members
are more than happy to share their experiences, good, bad and the ugly,
with anyone who asks. This site is not "candy Coated", some
people have complications and some have even died. However, all aspects are
covered and discussed, nothing is hidden, thus allowing people to make
informed choices regarding the suitability of WLS for their own life and
health. It is my hope that you can let more people know about the
information and support available here at obesityhelp.com. Come visit us at
AMOS :) Thank you Carnie for placing the stones down on the path for me
and others to follow...
<P>
Open Divided Proximal RNY
12/8/99 Beginning weight 367
Now 235...Down 132 pounds
Dr. Husted, Nashville, Tenn..
— Victoria B.
July 20, 2000
Carnie cogratulations on your weight lost you are doing real good this web
site could use your support.I'm having mine 7-28.any advise would greatly
be appreciated.Thank You ladybug rose
— Rose M.
July 20, 2000
Carnie Wilson...........I am now approaching my 2 year anniversary for my
open rny surgery. I am writing you to ask for your assistance in
advocating AMOS...you may be able to get people who desperately need the
support to this safe haven that Eric has created. It wasn't so long ago
that you and I suffered both physically and emotionally from the effects of
Obesity........help us to help others.
Thank You, Edith Esper
— Edith B.
July 20, 2000
Dear Carnie,
I'd like to thank you for having the courage to go public with your life
long weight loss struggle and your choice to have WLS as a means of
overcoming that struggle. With your help, this has shed some light on a
disease that hundreds of thousands suffer with each and everyday of their
lives. Wouldn't it be wonderful if we could educate the world to this
disease i.e. morbid obesity, and prove to them once and for all that this
is truly a disease, and not just a bunch of lazy people that eat to much.
Perhaps then the insurance companies would recognize the disease and
provide the means for which the people that need WLS for a cure could get
that treatment, without having to be subjected to more humiliation by
having to jump thru hoops in order to the that surgery approved.
I have known about WLS since 1979 when my Stepmother underwent
gastroplasty, she didn't fare as well as most patients do today. She never
recovered from her complications. There fore when I started gaining weight
in my late teen years. I never even considered having WLS. Instead I did
the yo-yo diet and exercise for many many years. Always feeling I was a
failure, because I couldn't get the weight off and keep it off. Several
times in my life this person or that would suggest that I try WLS, and I
always told them "No" i would never put myself thru what my
Stepmother went thru just to loose weight. And I certainly didn't want to
upset my Father & Stepmother by deciding to have WLS. However when my
Stepmother pasted away, I got the courage up to talk to my Father about
WLS, he told me that he would rather I didn't have the surgery, but if I
decided that's what I needed to do, then he was behind me 100%. But I still
was scared to death to even talk to my PCP about WLS. So I finally got to a
point that I decided that I must be meant to be obese, so why bother even
trying to loose the weight. But even having made my mind up, to accept what
I couldn't change. I still struggled everyday with guilt everytime I ate
anything, and hating myself for being so fat.
But you changed that for me, I can't say that I saw your surgery being
performed on the Internet, I didn't. But I did see you on Donny &
Marie, and that really got me to thinking that maybe, just maybe there was
some hope. So I got online and went to ADIYH and watched the video of your
surgery, and listened to the doctors, then I started looking for more
research on WLS, the first site I came across was ObesityHelp.com, and I
read and followed every link on the site, till I just couldn't find
anything I hadn't already read. I found out during this time that I'm
typeII diabetic, so I was even more motivated. Not to mention that my
husband was very ill, and I was worrying rather or not he would be around
in a couple yrs to help me finish raising our 2 beautiful daughters. So I
decided to talk to a surgeon, thank goodness that I have a decent insurance
company that will cover WLS if it's medically necessary, most are not that
lucky. I have to admit that if not for ObesityHelp.com, I might not of
gotten my courage up to actually make that first consult appt. with a
surgeon. The members of Obesityhelp.com are so understanding, kind,
compassionate, helpful people, they really gave me the courage I needed.
Now I'm being schedule for surgery sometime in August, and I'm so looking
forward to being a normal healthy person. Not a model, but just a normal
woman, that has the energy to play with her kids, walk her dogs, go
canoeing with her husband.
So I must thank you Carnie Wilson for your courage, and for starting my
journey that lead me to ObesityHelp.com, the most supportive group of
friends a person could ever ask for, THANK YOU!
Sincerely, Arianne "Marie" Blankenship
Planning to have Lap RNY early Aug/00
Link below is to my profile on ObesityHelp.com
http://www.obesityhelp.com/morbidobesity/profile.phtml?N=Blankenship960935637
— Arianne B.
July 20, 2000
Carnie
Wanted to let you know that your story has insiped and brought hope to many
people including myself. Your support is greatly needed to further
educate. This site has been a very important tool for me to get information
about WLS and the support that I have found here is incredible! Please
consider helping this site expand and reach more people that are so
desperate for hope! Thank you :)
— Landa S.
July 20, 2000
Dear Carnie!!
Just wanted to say I had my surgery right about the time you did!!!
It helped me get through the recovery seeing you go through yours!!
You're doing well and congrats on the marriage by the way!!!
This is an A1 site!!! I didn't find it until I was almost 6 months
post-op, but I have learned a lot of things and still do by asking
other "posties" what they do or have done in certain
situations!!
We're all such different people with one thing in common....weight
loss surgery!! You are a member of that group!! It has done so much
for me!!! I'm almost addicted now, I come here almost everyday just
to talk with other people!! I personally have lost 200lbs!! I started
at 539!! I have benefited from this site A LOT!!!
— Dawne H.
July 20, 2000
Dear Carnie, You are an inspirition to all of us considering weight loss
surgery, or anyone thats had it. I also admire your awesome talent. You
were very beautiful before you had the surgery, but now your georgous. I
hope that after I have my surgery I'll have the results that you have had.
I bet it feels so awesome to beable to cross your legs, run without killing
yourself, and not to be restricted in movie seats. It's a shame these
little things mean so much. It would help all heavy people if you would be
apart of this web site. Thank you for your time in reading this message.
Tammy Baldwin
— Tammy B.
July 20, 2000
Dear Carnie,
I applaud you on your success and on your going public with your surgery.
You have been an inspiration to many. My husband and I have both had open
RNY surgery this spring. We are both enjoying the new life we've been
given with wls. When we began researching wls, we found the AMOS site.
This site has been so thorough in helping us gain an understanding of all
components of wls. The chat room and message boards have offered us
incredible support. How reassuring is it for preops, post ops and those
considering wls to gather together in a chat room and communicate, support
and lift one another, to encourage each other, and to answer questions. The
tireless efforts of Eric and his associates has made this a safe haven for
the morbidly obese. This site deserves recognition because of the all
emcompassing service it provides. My husband and I have had the
opportunity of having a whole community support us before, during and after
our surgeries. The angel network enables us to be there for one another.
My husband and I have had a wonderful "angel" to support us
through our surgeries. Now we are able to do likewise; visiting others who
are in our area in the hospital, calling them, emailing them and supporting
them. This would not be possible without this site, as it links us one to
another. The profiles introduce us to each other, giving a glimpse into
each others lives showing we are not alone. The ease by which this site is
navigated makes it user friendly. This site has been the main focus for my
husband and I and it will continue to be so. It is our hope you will
support this site, as it offers so much.
Sincerely,
Lori "Teach" and Dennis
— Lori W.
July 20, 2000
Dear Carnie,
Congratulations on both your recent marraige and your continued sucess
with your weight loss. I am soon to reach my 6 mos. post op status from my
surgery which I consider to be my life saver. I have lost 75 lbs. so far.
Thanks to this board. It has beneficial in so many ways. I was able to
research all of my surgical options, find information about the surgeon my
doctor recommended. I even had the chance to speak to former patients of
his before I met with him for the first time. I was able to talk live with
others who have been there before to ask questions, and after to get
support. This is one of the most comprehensive sites on the internet
dealing with this issue that affects so many thousands of people. Could
you please offer your support for this site. A doctor in your
house...where your news board is, is a wonderful site and is a good source
of support. I really enjoy it. But this site is truly the best out there
anywhere!!!!
Rose aka LilCricket
— Roseann Y.
July 20, 2000
Dear Carnie, This is the most fabulous WLS site I have found on the
internet. There is information here to help someone find a surgeon near
their home. You can find out information about different insurances.
There is a very helpful Questions and Answer board. Before and after
pictures of our peers. We set up profiles and can find out about each
other. Friendships are started here. There is a message board and a chat
room. Sharing our trials as well as our successes is wonderful. There is
always someone to turn to for help, advice or just friendship. It is truly
like a family here. This feeling is not duplicated on other sites I have
been a part of. I have gradually given up other sites to just come here.
There just isn't any comparison. You are helping to spread the word of WLS
and that is wonderful. Without this site and people like you there are
many of us who would have never heard of this surgery. Come join us and
help spread the word about this wonderful site. We'd all love to have you.
— Rosanne O.
July 20, 2000
DEAR CARNIE, at 560lbs and the near inability to care for myself on a
"persoanl" level, this site has and is my life line. I ask myself
what about the others out there who are unaware of the sea of information
and the life saving support I (we) all have needed thats found here. The
journey has been rough but the on-going connection to AMOS has made me
relize I AM NOT ALONE! Thanks for any and all your support in shinng a
brighter light on this site so those of them out there can hear---THEY ARE
NOT ALONE!
— TJ J.
July 20, 2000
Dear Carnie, Well here is your chance, before i ever found your web site. I
came upon this one and it has helped so many people,including myself. And
we want to be able to share the love and support to as many people as we
can. But as you know things are very costly these days. And a very fun
loving young man named Eric as taken the whole cost in his hands to run
this web site. Which has helped many many people and this man wants so much
to help us make it though to the other side as we call it. If it was not
for this web site i would have never been given the chance to live again
and enjoy my 2year old son. So carnie if you could find it in your heart to
help us with your support. We would be able to help thousand and thousand
of other people who are hurting and dying because they have no where to
turn for help and support.
— Mindy M.
July 20, 2000
Dear Carie I'am a newcomer to this site and I want you to know it has
inspired me in so many ways my B.M.I.is 48 I will have a sleep apena test
on the 11 of aug and one more test I can't spell sometime in sept then I
will see my surgon foe the first time then my ins co. the major thing for
me is I bought a swimming suit for the first time in 30 yrs and I wen't to
the local pool I didn't care what people thought of my body mass I just
knew I had to exersize and swimming is the most enjoyable for me and I
credit you and this site to all the people who share it Wish me luck with
my ins co. I think this will be my only problem also congrat on your
wedding ANN Tucker
— ann T.
July 20, 2000
DEAR CARNIE MY NAME IS KAREN FORD AND I AM FROM MEMPHIS TENNESSEE. YOU ARE
MY INSPIRATION. EVERYTIME I SEE YOU ON TV I CRIES BECAUSE I AM WISHING I
WAS IN YOU SHOES. I CAN NOT FIND A INSURANCE COMPANY TO PAY FOR MY SURGERY
AND I CAN NOT FIND A DOCTOR IN THE MEMPHIS AREA THAT WILL AGREE TO LET ME
PAID MONTLY. GOOD LUCK ON YOUR SUCCESS. YOU ARE SO BEAUTIFUL. ONE DAY I
WILL BLOSSOM INTO AN ANGEL ALSO. RIGHT NOW I DON'T FEEL TOO GOOD ABOUT
MYSELF. THANKS FOR LISTNING. KAREN FORD MEMPHIS TENNESSEE
[email protected]
— fradycat007
July 20, 2000
Dear Carnie, I just wanted to say that it took a lot of guts to be the
poster child for WLS. Thank you so much! I'm another one that was sitting
at the computer one day nursing a torn meniscus knowing that it would be a
chronic problem if I didn't lose weight. I searched for your name and found
your website. But then I found this one too. You inspired me to look into
WLS, but ObesityHelp.com inspired me to do it. This site is so
comprehensive and searchable, that I think just about all of my questions
have been answered. And those that aren't can be discussed with thousands
of members. You've been such an inspiration to alot of us, we'd be thrilled
if you stopped by for some coffee ;-D
— Allie B.
July 20, 2000
Dear Carnie,
I ask this question because in my quest for health and longevity which
resulted in deciding to also have severe obesity surgery, i found a great
difference between those doctors that were specifically trained to treat
the obese, verses those who were not. There are some out there (surgeons)
who treat obese patients mostly .. i wont say only, because during
consultation you find out that these surgeons also do hernia repair, breast
surgery, abdominoplasty and the like, but coupled with their technical
training, they seem to have a sensitivity to our situation .. do u find
that this special training benefits and affects the outcome of the patient
in a positive way? .. has dr. witgrove's special sensitive training
benefited u .. and if u could encourage those that read your story toward
bariatric specific surgeons only, would u and if so, why .. please respond
.. thank u ..
— Vanessa B.
July 20, 2000
Dear Carnie,I had the open RNY and am 6 weeks post. I am down 45 pds. I am
a mother of four wonderful kids but since age 28 have been very, very ill.
I have had a stroke. I have Multiple Sclerosis. And i've had a Brain Stem
Tumor and was in a very bad car wreck. Due to inability to move around and
steroids i gained a LOT of weight. This led to my WLS. But i find now i
cannot eat. I do not wish to eat. I hate food. I am afraid of it! How do
you overcome it? You have done so well and look wonderful. Do you have any
secrets you can share? Wishing you the very best in all that you do.. Take
care. Dani
— Danniel K.
July 20, 2000
Dear Carnie, I started looking into wls about 6 months ago and then I came
across this web site and it has been a life savor. I just read all the
questions and answers and I have learned so much. Everyone seems like a old
friend that are willing to give us courage we need. I am waiting for my
insurance like now. I am so glad you have done so well, any advise for us
the ones (in waiting)? thanks Cathy
— Cathy B.
July 21, 2000
Dear Carnie,
In writing this note, I am urging you to consider supporting this site. I
am a 32 year old wife and mother of two. I have struggled with my weight
since birth. In 1996, I underwent a VBG. This procedure worked for a
period of time, only to have it fail with complications, leading to a
reversal. On July 7th I underwent an open RNY. Carnie, I was orginally
inspired to undergo this last surgery after watching your success. I have
been following your outcome since the day of your surgery. However, I have
found 98% of my support on the AMOS website. The information I have
received on this site has empowered me with knowledge I never thought
possible. The information comes from people that have "been there,
done that"! These people are dedicated to the success of weight loss
for all Morbid Obesity sufferers. Not only have I found support here, but
through this site I have obtained information for local support. I believe
with an endorsement from someone with your celebrity status, many others
could benefit from this site. Sincerely, LaNora Livingston
— LaNora L.
July 21, 2000
Hi There,
This site has helped me soooo much. My doctor did not offer an ounce of
support post op. I was so alone. Then I found this site and it has been
exactly what I needed. My fears are shared with a dozen other people like
me. I get through the rough spots here. Lots of obese people are in need
of a big shoulder, or a hand to hold, for various reasons. The world can
be a lonely place for anyone, but expecially for people who don't "fit
in" or look the part. Hope you'll stick around and inspire others,
just because you can. There IS more happiness in giving, so you'll benefit
the most. :+) Take care.
— Toni B.
July 21, 2000
Hi Carnie,
Last October you were on Howard Stern. I was so excited about what I heard
that I decided to look into this surgery. I went directly to the site you
discussed (A Doctor In Your House.com). I read the site and the archives
for days. I still read the postings each day. I followed a link from one
of the postings to this site. Here I got tons of very important
information. I was able to search for doctors by state and to find out
that my insurance company generally approves this surgery without problem.
I have spent hours in the chat room here. This site is a priceless tool in
researching Weight Loss Surgery. It would be a great service to people if
you included this site when you do promotional appearances.
I had surgery December 9, 1999 in Philadelphia and am down 121 lbs. I help
moderate an on-line support group and have set up a local live support
group. I consider this surgery to be a gift and want to help others get
the gift as well. Thank you Carnie for giving me (and thousands of others)
the gift of the knowledge of this surgery.
— Marjie W.
July 21, 2000
Dear Carnie,
I am so proud of you for going public with your surgery. It means a lot to
all of us! There are so many people out there that do not understand these
sugeries and will not take the time to. If only we'd diet and quit being
pigs. I've heard that until I'm sick of it. By you going public, maybe some
of these people will maybe take the time to notice that this is not the
quick fix end-it-all solution that most people think it is. That this is a
last resort for most of us, or we wouldn't even be considering such a
drastic measure. Good luck in your journey. :-) Peace.
— Sherri O.
July 21, 2000
Dear Carnie,
I recently looked at your wedding pictures on your site and wanted to let
you know that you are a beautiful bride. You look absolutely marvelous.
You have been such an inspiration to me. I had WLS in 1984 and had staple
line breakdown....your story and you made me consider having it revised.
I had very good luck with my original surgery and lost 170 lbs. I gained
back 120 lbs., but I remember oh so well how I felt and the changes that
took
place in my life. I wish you were more involved with the obesityhelp
site....this site is a life send. You can always find someone who needs
some
help and always someone there to help you when you need something. I go to
this site for a couple hours each day. I am in the process of getting my
approval for revision and many times I need some reassurance and this is
the site to do it. There are so many members here from all over the world
and
you would be able to touch so many peoples lives if your presence was known
here. Thanks for your time and keep up the good luck...you are truly a
beautiful
woman inside and out......oh yes...and so very very talented....I love your
voice.
Terijay
— Terry M.
July 21, 2000
Carnie,thank you for coming out & letting the world know there is an
answer to obesity. Your courage has inspired so many of us. Thank you!
Please let others know of this site as it is full of information for those
exploring the possibility of WLS. It also supports an online chat room to
relate one on one or as a group. Congratulations to you on your recent
marriage. I can't wait to see what lies ahead for you & yours. Thanks
again!
Brenda Flugum
lap rny 8/25/00
— Brenda F.
July 21, 2000
Dear Carnie,
Because of your courage to go public with your surgery and because of this
great group of people on the AMOS board, I have had my first surgical
consult and now am waiting (impatiently, I might add!) for insurance
approval and a surgery date. As you know, being morbidly obese is no fun.
You have helped so many people to get out of their prison of fat and so
have all the others on this board. We would really be so honored to have
you join us here to spread the word to others who are considering surgery
and to all the people who aren't "blessed" with this affliction
and who need to be educated about morbid obesity. Hoping to see you around
here soon. --Libby
— Libby B.
July 21, 2000
Dear Carnie:
Thank you for sharing your personal struggle with your weight. One
person sharing their experience can help so many more! That is what
ObesityHelp.com is all about. To learn and share experiences and make new
friends. To provide support and help others get past their prejudices of
obesity. From ObesityHelp.com I have learned of another website,
ObesityLaw.com, to assist in fighting the insurance companies approve the
procedure for weight loss surgery. You can help! I downloaded a
pre-written letter to be sent to our President, Senators, and other
important legislative people involved in writing laws. You can help bring
exposure to this matter! The first step can be associating with
ObesityHelp.com. Bringing attention to the many, many obese people and the
wonderful resource this website is.
Thank you for taking the time to read our messages! I wish you the
best of everything in your new life after weight loss surgery!
Regards,
Betty McCombs
— betty890
July 21, 2000
Dear Carnie
THANK YOU! Because of your courage I found out about surgery last summer.
I started researching immediately and was denied once, switched insurance
and had surgery on 2/18/00. I started at 367 and Im 5'3 I have lost down
to 281 pounds. I have a long way to go, but have a wonderful support
system here with many friends that I have met through surgery with the same
doctor. I had the Open Roux-en-Y type surgery, with Fobi Pouch and
Panniculectomy. I love having my new flat tummy.
I hope you can become involved in some way with this site. I love it.
This is the first place I came and learned more about surgery after seeing
you on tv. They are doing a wonderful job here and the people are so
helpful.
God bless to your and your new husband.
Teresa Kauppinen
http://wls.gcisnet.net/w2e.html (to see my pics and story)
— Teresa K.
July 21, 2000
Dear Carnie,
I have been to many site on the internet concerning weight loss surgery,
and I am truely happy with AMOS. I have been to your site and I think it
is very nice but for most people at least trying to research other sites
open up many doors to a better understanding of what Obesity Surgery is all
about. Please if you have a chance and some extra time can you at least
stop by and check this site out and support in every way you possibly can
because you know what it means to so many people. Hoping that this thought
reaches you through understanding.
Charlene
— darkbrowngirl2003
July 21, 2000
Carnie, I hope you take some time to come and check out this great web
site. It has really helped me in so many ways. I mostly enjoy the chat
and have met many people there that I can relate too. Also because I
posted my profile here on this site I have met many people in my state who
have had or who are going to have weight loss surgery. As a matter of fact
five of them came to visit me in the hospital, and I have some new friends.
Also we have started a support group over the email for the people in my
state. I had my surgery on June 26, I weighed 454 lb and I have lost 36 lb
so far. I am very pleased with my surgery. It would be great if you could
join us at this great place. Thank you. Tammy Dunn
— Tammy D.
July 21, 2000
WOW! Did you realise how many people were being helped because of you? It
may be uncomfortable sometimes, but I hope you see that you were the
catalyst for so many people being able to choose life...(even if George
Michael wore the shirt in his video!)
May you be blessed. Thank you for everything.
Ge-Anne
— Ge-Anne
July 21, 2000
Dear Carnie, Please consider supporting obesityhelp.com. For so many of
us this is the only way we can connect with other people and get
information about this life saving procedure. Many of us are/were
housebound due to our obesity and our co-morbidities. This site provides a
controled forum where we can gather information and get support from people
who are experiencing the same things we are. My PMD was NOT helpful or
supportive in my quest for WLS. My pleas for this surgery went on for over
six years until I discovered this site. This site provided me with the
information I needed to get the health care I needed.
— [Anonymous]
July 21, 2000
Dear Carnie,
I do hope you'll consider being more involved with this website. After
going through the surgery (not to mention the years of torture before it),
you are uniquely positioned to understand all of the issues that we have to
deal with daily. I have found you to be an inspiration in so many ways,
and as you can see from the other responses, you have that effect on many.
Congratulations on your marriage, and I do hope to see your posts here in
the near future.
Sincerely, Stephanie L.
— Luci L.
July 21, 2000
Carnie,
I was in the hospital in January with congestive heart failure. I lived
through it, but the doctor told me that if I didn't lose weight I would
die. As a last resort I was checking the Internet for that "one final
diet" that I was going to make work this time.
While checking for diets, I ran across this site. I haven't slept a full
night since. I just couldn't believe what I had found. Here were people
just like me. They had the same problems I had. They had been hurting
just like I had been hurting. Since that time, I have found a surgeon,
whose name is Robert Rutledge, in North Carolina. I have a surgery date and
will have the Mini-Gastric Bypass on September 6. Bottom line.......This
site has saved my life. For the first time is my life, I have hope.
I have talked with Eric a time in the chat room, but he couldn't possibly
know the magnitude of what this site has done for us. This site should be
known world-wide. People everywhere should know just what we have here. I
love Eric for allowing me to have the opportunity to live.
Tanya Beamon
— Tanya B.
July 21, 2000
Dear Carnie: First of all, Congratulations on what you've done for
yourself!!! Because of you and many others like you, WLS is becoming a
topic of discussion. One year ago this month, I happened to stumble on Eric
Klein's "little" site and it changed my life. I found real people
I could chat with and "talk" to about their WLS experiences. I
got tips on researching the procedures and how to make sure a surgeon is
right for my needs. This has been an indespensible tool for me. I am 6
months post-op and minus 93 pounds! I am happy to say that I can go out for
regular walks and bike rides, which gives me less time to visit the site
but when I do I find all sorts of new things. Please mention this site as
people seeking the tool of WLS need more avenues to be sure they are
getting the whole picture. I recommend it not only for prospective
patients, but also to their families and healthcare professionals. Everyone
that comes into contact with a WLS "veteran" or
"newbie" that has a question or concern should see this site.
Thank you Eric and to all your staff for this precious tool! Sincerely,
Jodie L. Hay
— Jodie H.
July 22, 2000
Hi Carnie,
what you have done is wonderful. I hope to have the surgery also.Why is it
that famous people won't let people know what struggles they are having
with problems that other people have and how their answers have helped them
. Just think if Big Mama Cass could have had or even known about this type
of thing she might still be alive today. Oh I know she didn't die from her
weight but if she'd of had the surgery she wouldn't or couldn't have eaten
that sandwich, and she'd still be hear to sing today. We all love you but
please help Eric out with this site , it's a life saver for all of us
unfamous people that just want to live. Thanks for your help in this matter
. Lots of hugs, Patsy Cline
— PATRICIA ( PATS C.
July 22, 2000
Dear Carnie, I am one of many that have followed your example to have
surgery to control obesity. Please become more of a participant here at
obesityhelp.com. While many of us have had surgery you are the best known
public spokesperson for us. Please help. Thank you!
— char T.
February 15, 2001
Dear Carnie,
You were the element in my decision to have gastric bypass surgery.
Do you know how much of an inspiration you are to MILLIONS?
My mother's side of the family morbidly obese, and our family
has a history of Cancer's, Stroke, High Blood Pressure, and diabetes.
I first saw you after you had the surgery on the Men are From Mars, Women
Are From Venus with Cybill Shepard. My uncle told me about this kind
of surgery, but I never gave it a second thought until I saw
your story on t.v. You gave me the inspiration to make a change
in my life. Please join in AMOS, because we all are so inspired by
you!! I grew up feeling left out of my family..the black sheep. I
"hear" and understand how it feels to be in a fat person's shoes.
I only
wish the teasers would walk a mile in our shoes. Because of you
and my bad health probs., I'm gonna do it for myself, once
and for all.
— Jennifer C.
February 15, 2001
Dear Carnie,
I cannot tell you how much any overweight person can identify with you,
including myself, of course. I had heard of "stomach stapling"
but thought it was something only terribly obese people, like those over
500lbs had done. I never thought of myself as obese, never the less
morbidly obese. I had heard you had your surgery broadcast live on the
internet and I wondered why. When I saw you on the cover of People magazine
I thought, "My God, that could be me too!" Now I know why you did
it. It was a drastic change you had to make and one you wanted to share
with your fans.
Because of you, I looked into RNY surgery. Because of what I have learned
at Obesityhelp.com and the terrific surgeon I have found through this site,
I will be having the RNY on February 27, 2001. Although I am still pre-op
at this time, I want you to know what an amazing inspiration you are to me.
I would not have survived these days of waiting and fear without the
support I have received from this website. I would beg and encourage you to
use your celebrity to help us spread the word of this unbelievable site of
information and rescources to everyone who feels as though they have failed
and have no choices.
Also, as I have read here, many people have enormous medical bills due to
the fact that many insurances will not pay for this life saving surgeries.
I would implore you to speak out about your "afterlife" and
become an activist for people who want to share your dream. Weight
Watchers has Fergie, we want you!!!!!!!
We have all been to hell, and we want to share in the happiness that you
must feel being reborn and newly married. Congratulations to you on your
imense success. You are in my thoughts and prayers daily. You have made
these dream seem possible to millions of people who thought they were
alone.
Warmest Regards,
Kathleen Sqalli
— Kathy831
February 15, 2001
Dear Carnie,
If you read my profile, as well as I am sure some others, here at
AMOS, you will see that my journey for WLS started when I saw you
on 20/20 for your first time. That was the impetus for my research
and subsequent WLS a year ago. I just wanted to take the time to
tell you "Thank you!" for caring enough to share your journey
with
us all.
— M B.
February 16, 2001
I dont mean to be overly critical but just and fyi..Mama cass died from a
heart attack not from a ham sandwich. Wls very well could have saved her
life.
— [Anonymous]
February 16, 2001
Dear Carnie,
I have eagerly followed your progress since you announced that you would be
having WLS surgery. You have been such an inspiration to me as well as
thousands across the world. I even have your recent cover from People
Magazine on my refrigerator to serve as a reminder that I can do it too.
This web site has been a god send to me in my research of this surgery. I
feel that I am about 95% prepared to undergo this monumental task that
stands before me. I come here daily just to get a dose of positive thoughts
to keep me going. I would love to see you partcipate in our site. Thanks
for helping all of us who thought we had no answers.
— Wendy H.
February 16, 2001
Dear Carnie, Thank you for coming public about your life and your surgery.
I truly believe that this has helped more people than you will ever relise.
I remember Last year around this time I wanted to go on another 1,999 diet
or exercise program to get this weight off. I was 349 lbs 5.2 and living a
misurable life. I did not accept it was because of my weight. I thought
that how I was feeling physically was I was going thru the change of life
at 39....Anyway I joined another health fitness and I went for 2 months
until my body was screaming in pain. TO STOP EXERCISING. You cant bounce
349 lbs around to easily without getting hurt or damaging the product. I
knew I had to do something so I went to my Doctor for a complete physical
which I had not had in 10-15 years. I found that I had Sleep Apnea, Acid
reflex, high Coloristroil servre joint pain. And diabeatic,heart attach,
stroks,all runs very high in our family. When I came home with all my test
results I held my head down in shame,guilt, and I actually hit my knees and
cryed to GOD to please help me again. After million of prayers for him to
help me diet. I have always failed. I felt my whole diet life was a
failer.....I never really cryed out for help like I did that night in early
Oct 2000, and than when I lifted my head I got up and walked over to the
computer and I went to a search engine and I keyed in "FAT REDUCTIONS
BY SURGERY"
This is where I found this wonderful life saving website. This is the
place I no longer felt like a failer, or that I was alone. or had to be
ashame of who I am. Or because of not being able to take care of myself.
etc...my list will go on and on. But as I ready other stories, profiles,
pro cons. For once I felt there was hope for me too. I found my wonderful
surgeion on this website. I also followed your story and you have helped
me to understand that this is a diease. That I no longer have to hold my
head down in shame. I never asked to be fat. I just loved food, and it
Loved me. I would love for you to help support this website. And some how
carry the message to other to help with the people here that are trying to
get approved thru there insurance company. That this is really medically
neccary, for thousand of people here alone. I had my surgery Jan 15. 2001,
my last weight in which was Feb 9, I was down 28 lbs. I know it is more
now but will see next friday. I know I ramble alot but truly you are a God
send to so many of us. I have the People Magazine also that I keep around
to help me because I know I can do it to. DREAMS DO COME TRUE FOR THOSE
WHO BELIEVE. I BELIEVE....^J^ ^j^ PS I would be totally lost without
this website. and I have made so many friends that can wear my shoes, and
I can wear there shoes>>>>>>
— jay B.
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