http://youtube.com/watch?v=FUVRL1X-fNo

Dr. Rutledge says that initial weight loss is mainly water, but that after that, there can be a loss of muscle mass. We can reduce the likelihood of that problem by supplementing our diet with whey protein and creatine, and by getting in a moderate level of exercise. My wife and I are having a whey protein and creatine shake every morning. We get about 1/3 of the daily recommended total protein requirement, and also creatine, which helps to build muscle mass. A Shake containing one scoop of whey protein, a teaspoon of creatine, with fruit, yogurt and milk makes a great smoothie, and makes a filling and refreshing breakfast. Creatine also may have other health benefits as well. Just watch the video, and you will want to go out immediately and get some creatine and whey protein tonight.

Hello!
    I am happy to be a contact for you. I had the surgery 15 months ago and I have lost 127 pounds, from 268 to 141 pounds.
 

    On June 27, 2004 I was in a car accident. At the time I was overweight but it wasn't something I was concerned about ~ outwardly anyway. I was hurt pretty badly in the accident and was on pain meds for just about a year. In that time, I gained 50 lbs from lack of the ability to exercise (too painful) and the continued use of percocet. I was in a bad downward spiral and losing ground everyday. I needed a cane or walker to get around because I was in so much pain.
 

    Then one day I found CLOS on the internet and the adventure began. It really wasn't a struggle to get everything done, except in my mind; I was just sluggish about all of it because everything felt like I was moving through molasses. The biggest challenge was stopping all the pain meds, which I had to do 5 weeks before the surgery. And taking the pictures was REALLY HARD on my ego.....now I wish I had taken all my measurements, but I was too embarrassed at the time. I was committed to the surgery beyond all doubt, and agreeing to live through 5 weeks of pain without pain meds was evidence of that.
 

    On June 27, 2005 (I found the date to be a good omen) I flew to LV. I registered the following day. I was scared out of my wits: what if I was the one person to not lose weight, or didn't come out of anesthesia.. ..all the fears that I have heard so many pre-ops share on this board.
 

    So on the morning of June 29, I showed up at the hospital. I was scheduled to be #3. Much of it is a blur because I was so apprehensive. ...that is, until I was sent to pre-op. All went smoothly there, and the staff was incredible. I got into the operating room and was under anesthetic in moments.
 

    The next thing I remember is something coming out of my throat and nose. (My surgery took 19 minutes!!!) Didn't really feel anything. I was in recovery for an abnormally long time because one of the patients from the previous day had not left yet. I got all the ice I wanted in recovery, but it added to my biggest issue...that of having to go to the bathroom and not being able to go until I got to my room. When I finally got to my room, I used the restroom and then tried to get organized and acclimated. I did use the morphine pump because I was so afraid that my back would start hurting on top of everything else. BUT GUESS WHAT - NO pain anywhere. I could not tolerate the Gatorade, so lived on ice, jello, broth, v-8 juice and crackers for all of stage one. I got out of the hospital at 1 PM the next day after walking the halls several times during the night and visiting with my litter mates. The next few days were about figuring out what and when to take meds, taking walks, and starting the process of learning to eat in a whole new way. I took a shower on the second day and it felt great. Because it was 114 degrees outside we stayed in for a few days. I slept a lot. We did go to the lake one day and the Grand Canyon one day. Mostly I just had to make sure I didn't get dehydrated. My biggest mistake was on the night we were flying home. I had packed the pepto bismol and tums so I didn't have any on the plane with me. I had left the hotel at 5:30 pm and didn't get home until 2:30 am......and by then I was in pain, Pain, pAiN, PAIN. My throat and chest felt like it was on fire. As soon as I got home I unpacked the pepto bismol and put the fire out. Little did I know until three days later, that I had developed an ulcer. Dr R put me on quite a regimen of pepto, tums, prilosec and pepcid AC. I threw up after almost everything I put in my mouth.....NOT FUN!! It was the only time I wondered what I had done to myself. But then I began to feel better and I could eat more. ( I did try something that was not on the list for stage two before I should have and paid the price.....DON" T do it). I stayed on stage one for two weeks and stage two for about three weeks. I added a few things to my diet, but my main problem for the first 4 months was that nothing tasted good, especially liquids. I talked to Dr R and he suggested the estrogen patch, which I was on for a week. I got terribly constipated and bled non-stop for three weeks, so I didn't put another one on and was much better without it. It is weird, even one year out; some days I can't fit anything in my pouch and so drink protein drinks mixed with water and my liquid vitamins. On other days I can eat just about anything. Most of the time though I just couldn't find anything that appealed to me. Liquids were the hardest to get in, because nothing tasted good and I just couldn't satisfy my thirst. I started to tolerate lemonade in about the 3rd month and realized it was because it was sour and not sweet. My body did not tolerate sweet drinks. In month 4 I found Smart Water and thankfully my insatiable thirst was satisfied. I would also drink ruby red juice, which I tolerated really well because of the tartness. At six months out I still struggled with ulcer symptoms, and so was treated with a prescription form of prilosec for 6 months. At 10 months out, I was still having ulcer symptoms and Dr R recommended (seriously) that I have an endoscopy. (I was still throwing up occasionally and when the fire started, it was difficult to stop it). I finally had one on July 7, 2006. I will talk more about that later in the letter. It has taken me the better part of the year to retrain my eating habits and to eat differently. .....everytime I sit down to eat I have to remind myself ....small bites,,,,chew chew chew, and only 2 -5 bites at a time to see how the food sits with me. I take it slow and don't drink any liquids while eating...... ..it has often been a challenge. I often have times when I am not hungry at all and I have to remember to eat. I have also found that if I eat salad before any meat, I can tolerate the meat better. I have lost 127 pounds since surgery...and I am thrilled to have that much weight off this frame and my injuries ....although my neck, back and shoulder still need to be treated (from the accident). But I am completely free of pain medications since before surgery. I have more energy now. I religiously take my vitamins in the form of UniVera Ageless Essentials. I could not take the pill form of vitamins because I would feel nauseous for hours afterward. UniVera Essentials has become a mainstay for me. I take citrucel every day. I still carry Tums around just in case I get acid reflux from something I eat. I take Maalox now if I need an antiacid because I threw up too many times in the first few months right after I had taken Pepto Bismol and it made me nauseous to even look at the pink liquid. Since my surgery my BP has reduced measurably.. ..from 148/99 to 128/70 (yesterday) and I am off my BP meds.

I just went in for my year checkup and my labs are ALL fantastic. My HDL is still a bit low but it has gone from 31 to 42 in 6 months (50+ is normal for a woman). My mother was obese and had died at the age of 62 due to complications with cancer. Her weight spiraled out of control with all the meds she was taking and her awful eating habits. She was probably close to 450 pounds at one point. Losing her was horrible, she was one of my best friends, and I grieved for years. I was only 36 when she died. My father had died when I was 8, and she raised my brother and me on her own. If she had had the chance to have this surgery, her life would have been so different. She was a fighter and lived years beyond what the statistics predicted she would, but she was always in pain and her weight contributed to the pain and the complications she endured. Oh how I wish she had had this chance. I am so thankful for this wonderful opportunity to reclaim my life. I won't spend the autumn and winter years of my life sitting on the sidelines watching life go by. I am not a recluse anymore, and have become a traveling tutor. I I feel so good about myself and my newly born ZEST FOR LIFE.

The MGB staff is so wonderful, and I for one, am happy to have one less thing to worry or obsess about (my weight), because I know it will take care of itself while I am busy attending to the opportunities that life has to offer. The other part of my recovery is the vitamins and supplements I take. They are fantastic. The vitamins come from a company called UNIVERA Life Sciences. I take a product called Ageless Essentials, it is delicious cranberry based liquid that contains the vitamins, minerals, iron, whey protein, fiber, biotin, essential salts, and essential omega fats that we need post-op by providing it with natural products. It is 100% absorbable. I also take Ageless Extra which gives me more energy. Now back to the ulcer: at ten months I was introduced to the Univera products when someone suggested I take their Aloe Gold. I started getting a lot of relief. Aloe Gold balances the ph in the GI tract and repairs and restores the GI tract. It has also helped with the gas problem. I don't peel wallpaper off the walls anymore or clear a room in 10 seconds flat. It was bad when even the dogs would wake up and sniff and walk out. It has disappeared almost completely. I used Aloe Gold everyday until I had the endoscopy on July 7, 2006. It showed that the ulcer had healed, and I credit that to the Aloe Gold. As I continue to baby my tummy, Aloe Gold is a daily supplement. I credit my increasing health to the combination of the MGB and the UniVera products.

Sometimes I still feel like I am walking in a dream when I tell people I lost 127 pounds in one year. I can remember that at this time last year I wondered what it would be like to say those words. The year has gone by so quickly. I am still surprised when I glance at myself in the mirror and have to do a double take. Last week I put on the pants I wore to Las Vegas a year ago and both of my legs and my hips fit in one leg. I am moving with ease, I am able to manage my businesses, and I can keep up with my three year old granddaughter and love cuddling with my new 3 1/2 month old grandson.

Have a wonderful journey,

Hope that helps.

highest 352 dance day 338 Today 184

sometime last year I had a lil discomform after eating at times...right side...and I mentioned it to my PCP and got ultrasounds....(mind you the discomfort was very minor)

in Dec 07, I was advised I had approx. 4cm gallstone and would need to have my gall bladder removed

For X and Y reason (i get busy and lazy too), I finally did it on June 20th - got pics of the stone and everything...it looks like a black egg, LOL

Surgery took 2 hours, I was let go from the hospital that night....took over week to recover and went thru two bottles of meds (yes, approved meds)

Just wanted to show a comparison for those who have had the gallbladder removed and are pondering the pain and recovery of the MGB:

Gallbladder Removal Time: 2 hours Days in Hospital: less than one Recovery: Approx 10 days Incisions: Three small (same size of the MGB ones), one vertical in belly button bigger than any of the MGB ones Meds: 1-2 pain reducers every 4 hours a day for about 9 days

MGB Time: 50 minutes Days in Hospital: less than one Recovery: Approx 10 days Incisions: Five small Meds: Post op meds, none of which were pain reducers

So anywayssssss, I was surprised to feel worse than I ever did with the MGB for a stinking gallstone, but hey, I got the picture to prove it, LOL

So Pre-MGBers, no fear....feels better than a galls bladder removal

I also have type II Diabetes. I had surgery on Jan, 16 this year. I am a diabetic of long standing. I had many co-morbidities of obesity including severe shortness of breath. Before surgery I took 4 tablets and at least 4 Insulin injections every day. My BS was often not in control. After surgery I reduced my insulin to one tiny dose every 4-5 days and took no tablets. Now 3 months later my blood sugar still hovers a little above normal, enough to concern my diabetic doctor so I have gone back to 1 tablet a day. I have lost 41 pounds so far. Dr. R. thinks by 6 months my BS and BP will be normal.

I still have to take BP medication daily. My BP is normal first thing in the morning but rises by bedtime.

However I want you to know my health has so improved and my mood and energy is so much improved I will be happy if I continue on as I am now.

An aside as well. The nurse who looked after me in Henderson pre-op also mentioned her diabetes had not resolved entirely when I asked her. . It turns out that we both come from an aboriginal background and there is a significant link between diabetes and aboriginal heritage that is not explained by environment.

So in answer to your question. Most people's diabetes resolve immediately after surgery but some of us die-hards do not. Do not let that stop you from having the surgery. The other benefits are enormous. Good luck. Wilma

Dr. R. 01/17/08

high/surgery/now/goal

I had my 2 month follow up with my PCP today....he kept staring at me saying, "I can't believe it....I just can't believe it! You look beautiful!" (hmmm....was I super fat & ugly before???) He made me feel good about my progress and even brought me over to see the other doctor and show him "how I'm coming along." I think they make bets on how much weight I will lose each month. He said that me having the MGB was worth every single penny I paid!

It was nice to have my doc be so impressed with the weight loss, but I started getting a little weirded out after he kept complimenting me over and over and over and over. He even asked if my husband was getting nervous...... hmmmm.... I don't know exactly what he was getting at....... I know my doc only means well and is happy that I am getting healthy.....but the whole thing just freaked me out. Now I'm nervous for my 3 month follow up!!!

YIKES!!!!

It went great, I had a wonderful roommate which made it all the better. We stayed up all night walking, talking and having our little sips of liquid. I was too excited to sleep but other may sleep all the time right after.

I am sore but not hurting, I have no appetite and couldn't care less about other people eating eating things I ate before--no interest there. I am drinking small sips of liquids and eating broth and vanilla yogurt. Plus getting extra salt in. It doesn't seem so overwhelming now--matter of fact, quite manageable. Time will tell though LOL I can't read this screen as it is very dark and tiny--hotel pc, so excuse my errors. There were only three of us yesterday--2 women, one man. No patients today--work/catch up day I guess.Dr. R, Sandy and Trish spent lots of time with us--we had many good conversations.

I liked the process quite a bit. More later--off to walk around the hotel

By FAR, the best thing I have ever done for myself. :)

:-) Kathy in VA 7/6/06 297/193

--- In Mini-Gastric-Bypass@yahoogroups.com,
"Denise McConnell" <ddmac@...>
wrote: > > O.K. You want the poop on what you are about to undergo.

> 1. There may very well be some pain after the procedure. During it, you won't feel a thing. If in the recovery room the pressure is terrible tell them that you feel ill and they will give you something for it. Also, the pain can range from just pressure, to normal after surgery pain. I know one who said it was horrible, but to be fair, she was well over 60 and managed it quite well. it was short term in her words. The rest of us can tell you that it was anywhere from barely there at all, to thank God for the morphine pump.

> 2.. The first two weeks you will begin to see a difference in both your attitude and your weight. For the first time in forever you will lose and not be fearful of it all coming back. I used to ask where a pound went when you lost it. My feeling was it went to the local bar, got drunk, met up with another good looking pound and made more pounds overnight. The next day, when they sobered up, they decided to split those extra pounds and return 1/2 to my body, all pounds in tow. but, for the first two weeks, they can make all the extras they want, cause the door to come back in is CLOSED! You will HAVE to eat liquids to insure the healing process, make an effort at getting back into a normal life.

> 3. In the next two weeks you will see more weight come off, maybe your clothes will be a little lose. You will be adding things like oatmeal, mashed potatoes, mashed beans, basically soft, on chewy foods. You may experience reactions to some things, but take heart. Try again at a later date. What doesn't set well today, my set tomorrow. Go slow, it took how ever long to get to this point, it will not happen overnight.

> 4. In the next month, your energy should return as well as a normal life, but life as you used to know it will probably be fading. You will struggle to get your protein in, find old comfort food taste like *(^&&%^&$&^$$&*()*& and new foods that are wonderful. There may still be issues with some foods not setting well, but unless the reaction is violent, try again later on. And you will still be losing weight.

> 5. Sometimes the body says WAIT! You are losing all this wonderful weight that has taken me forever to collect...this just ain't right...so it may begin to do something to sabotage you. just like when you were on every other diet. It is called a PLATEAU. Up your protein and take a breather. Let the body catch up with the rest of you. Keep the salt intake up and relax, you will not be the very first person that Dr. R says this may not work for. It has worked up to this point.

> 6. You will definitely need to buy new clothes as the other ones fall off. Include something sexy, slinky and otherwise unmentionable. Your energy will stay good as long as you remember your vities, salt, and PROTEIN. Your hair may start to thin, try nioxin shampoo and zinc and magnesium. Relax, I have never seen a bald mgb'er....well er...not a female one.....ha-ha

> 7. Your eating habits should be pretty well established. You know when to stop because you have felt that HORRIBLE PAIN when you tried to force that last little bite in. Leave it be. You may not be able to eat something's that you enjoyed in the past, but there are a million other things out there to eat. Clothes shopping should be something that you get to do more often, and really start to enjoy. If your were a super plus size you might be shopping off the rack already. Don't get too buy happy, they won't fit for long. Dumping is something that you may have experienced and hope to high heaven that you never do again and the orange issues can be controlled by avoidance of greasy or fried foods. STINKY, SMELLY PAINT PEELING flatuance can be helped by sprays, and air fresheners, but basically the internal cause is excessive carbs. Cut back and see if that helps. Besides carb trigger sugar cravings. Caffeine trigger carb cravings.

> 8. As you get nearer your goal, you will look back at this and wonder, what was I worried about. I worried about being fat, this is a piece of cake.

> 9...Don't worry, get skinnier. Get happier, Get healthier.....It just takes time. take care and good luck

Denise in Mo.

I am one of the patients who had a bad few days after surgery, but, yes I would do it again without any hesitation. I had to have drains put in due to the fact I was a bleeder, and they were a bit uncomfortable, but tolerable. I had a lot of trouble breathing and sharp pains in my lungs post op and went back to the ER two days after surgery and was re-admitted with pneumonia and a partially collapsed lung. Now, this was NOT from Dr R, it was from the anesthesia and I was a heavy smoker right up until surgery. VERY VERY BAD ... So, due to my own stupidity, I had issues, but Dr R, Trish and Sandy were amazing and came to see me in the hospital on Sunday to remove the drains and check up on me. They are so wonderful and make you feel like family.

After returning home the following Tuesday, I was sore for about two weeks and then felt much better. Some of my litter mates , however, were out sightseeing and running around Vegas the day after surgery. so everyone is different.

So, if you smoke, quit...it can cause a lot of post-op issues and from my experience I would have rather had withdrawals than to be back in that darn hospital!!

Hope this helps you.

I can answer some of your questions for you, first let me ask if you have downloaded and read our manual. You will be able to do almost anything you want to, BUT, we require our patients to stay within two hours driving time of their operative site for seven days and to have a support person with them. We also strongly suggest that you not drive for two weeks after surgery. Our post surgery diet is in the manual, but quickly, Gatorade, V8, tomato juice, some fruit juices,(watch the sugar), broths, saltines, smooth yogurt, and popsicles for the first two weeks. The next two weeks, are soft foods, oatmeal, mashed sweet and white potatoes, refried beans, watermelon, soft cheeses, and other soft foods, after those two weeks are up slowly begin to resume normal eating. Try a bite or two, see how it sets for you, if it doesn't work well give it a few weeks and try a little again. Be careful with milk and ice cream they sometimes seem to cause problems.

My name is Karen P., I am 40 years old and had the MGB with Dr. Rutledge May 14, 2003. The reason I had the surgery was for my health. The fact of the weight loss is a bonus. I had a heart attack when I was 38 years old. I had always been overweight but the doctors told me that I was fairly healthy except for my weight. Well it all snuck upon me one day in February of 2002, while I was studying for the bar exam and under a great deal of stress. I had a pain in my chest and back and though I had had some similar pains off and on this one just did not pass. It felt like a heavy sandbag right across my chest, so I called my parents, who are wonderful and have supported me throughout the whole MGB process. We went to the emergency room and the doctors did some blood tests and had me scheduled for a stress test. They said, well you can forget about the stress test, you definitely had a heart attack and we need to do an angioplasty to see what's blocked. The next day I went in for the angioplasty which was very scary. The cardiologist went out to my parents and said that I had 90% blockage and that I might die! Well, I guess he was trying tough love, but it really didn't help in my condition. To make a long story shorter, I had a stint inserted (just like Vice President Cheney) and was also diagnosed with type II diabetes. I quit smoking while I was in the hospital and am proud to say that I have not had a cigarette since February 17, 2002!

I had so many co-morbidities and felt so lousy that I began to give up hope of ever passing the bar and having a career as an attorney, in fact I had almost given up hope of living very much longer. I had sleep apnea, diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, headaches and just could not stop gaining weight. I went to the orthopedist for my knees and he told me I was looking at partial knee replacement. He suggested that I look into weight loss surgery. I was very pessimistic about the whole topic because I had investigated it fifteen years ago and decided against it. I just did not look forward to the recuperation period and all of the problems associated with the changes in your body, particularly GERD.

I began my research in earnest and talked to my PCP, a friend who is a paramedic and began researching on the internet. I contacted several places that did the RNY. It seemed like a good option since they had begun to do it laproscopically. I really knew I had found the place for me when I stumbled across the CLOS website. I filled out the patient form and became part of the e-mail list. All of the support that everyone provides made me know that this was the place I needed to be. I had the same complaints that everyone does about how much work it took to put the package together, but I did it and my patient letter turned out to be almost 30 pages long! I got a loan from a credit union for part of the money and my parents loaned me the rest and also accompanied me to Statesville for the procedure.

I had every confidence in Dr. Rutledge's abilities as a surgeon, but I was extremely reassured after I met him in person. The rest of the staff is truly outstanding as well. When I came in the day before surgery to say hi and deliver the all important check, Penny said "nope - no handshakes we're hugging people around here!" Kathy, Dana, Shannon and Nancy were terrific and so supportive, I felt like I had made a whole new set of best friends. I had my Pre-op appointment with Dr, Chery, who was so kind and reassuring, and his follow-up care in the hospital was top notch as well.

When I woke up in recovery someone was counting my port sites and I heard ten. I thought that is strange, why did I have so many? When Dr. Chery came in to see me the night of surgery he said not to worry that everything went well. He said that my liver had only moderate damage and was better than they anticipated. They had put the instruments in and when they got in there they couldn't see what we needed to so they all had to be adjusted, so I had ten port sites instead of five. The operation took a little longer than usual around 90 minutes, because they had to move things around. I asked him if it was because of my anatomy and he said - that everything was where it was supposed to be. Since I weighed 381 pounds on the day before surgery I assume that the additional problems were created by the excess weight above their cut off of 350. I am just glad that they continued with the surgery. They said they by-passed 71/2 feet of intestine. So I might have the dubious distinction of having the most port sites! But hey it worked, so I'm not complaining.

I had a little pain that night and used the pain pump a few times. I was up and walking the halls and eating popsicles with one of my littermates that called himself Elvis. I bounced back right after the surgery and amazed the Davis staff by being very talkative as soon as I got back to my room. Well that was only temporary because when I went back to the hotel on Thursday, I ended up spending most of Friday and Saturday sleeping. Partly due to anesthesia, partly due to emotional let down, now that everything was over. The realities started setting in. I had trouble swallowing and getting enough fluids. The I developed thrush, which was extremely yucky. The medication I had picked up before hand treated it just fine. Each day got better and better, but the first month I would say that I was a little depressed and still adjusting to my new life.

I am now 14 months out and have lost 143 pounds. The weight loss has not been as fast as I would have expected, being that I started from over 300 pounds, but its coming off. I have started swimming and taking my supplements and citrucel, so all I have is time. My joint pain has improved tremendously, my diabetes has disappeared. I used to take 2000 MG of glucophage a day and I have not had any diabetes medication since the day before surgery. I have been to my cardiologist and he has been pleased with my progress, the only medication I take is a baby aspirin a day (with Dr. R's approval of course) and sometimes vioxx for knee pain or headaches, but that is not often. I would do the surgery again in a minute, because I have already seen the benefits and it has only been 10 months.

Oh, by the way I did pass the bar exam and got my results the week before the MGB. By the time I was sworn in a month later, I had to pin my suit skirt on me because it was literally falling off! I am hoping that soon I will be getting interviews and I know that my confidence level has risen because of the weight loss and overall feeling of good health.

Date: May 14, 2003 Starting Weight: 381 Weight today: 238 Operating Time: 90 minutes Age: 39 Starting Size(s): 30/32, 4-5x Size(s) today: 18 and going down E-mail: kpetersen@aol.com

I feel so blessed to have come this far without any problems or complications. The only medications that I am still taking is the Actigal. I hope to take that for a LONG time! (I am about half way to my goal.) Everything else is a supplement or vitamin.

This has been such an extraordinary journey so far. I find that I carry myself differently now. It is even different from this weight on the way up. I can still wear a lot of my old tops. I kept them from my various weights hoping that I could wear them again one day. Some of them look like dresses now and have been passed on to others. It was difficult to let go of them. I have been gaining and loosing and gaining for so long that my old insecurities popped up for a while.

Exercise is my new necessary evil. It isn't something that I look forward to doing, but I feel achy if I don't exercise at least five days a week. Walking and light weights are the best things for me. Yuck, I really hope that my attitude about this changes and I start to enjoy it at some point! In the meantime, I will drag my shrinking butt to the gym.

To everyone that is debating whether or not they should have this surgery... Everyone has different experiences. Some have complications, some don't bounce back immediately after surgery, some have no problems and loose quickly... I have yet to hear from someone that regrets having this done. Even people that lose slower find that they are better off having this surgery. It is all about choice. I thank God that he gave Dr Rutledge his skills so that we can all have a choice.

This is my sixth month of joy. I had my surgery on Dec. 29th 2003. I am truly blessed. I have had no complications whatsoever! my energy level is up my blood pressure is normal, my back pain has almost disappeared, I can fit in booths at restaurants, and airplane seats and no additional belts are needed! I can sit at the movies without feeling cramped, I can walk from my car to the store and walk up and down the aisles without panting and stopping to catch my breath or swollen feet or ankles no more snoring. It was all worth every penny!

My start weight was around 360lbs. and my weight today is 285 lbs. 75 pounds gone for good could be more if I exercised more. I have no one to blame.

I am grateful to God, Dr. Rutledge, and Martha in that order for the progress I have made.

Be Encouraged Everyone!

Nell

It's been months since I posted anything. I am so grateful to have had the MGB. I have lost 101 lbs as of today since surgery on 6/30/03.

According to my primary doctor, I no longer have diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol.

I was able to stop all medication since the day of surgery and it is a wonderful feeling to not be on any prescription medications.

All my labs have been completely normal.

I do take my vitamins every day as recommended by Dr. Rutledge. I plan to have plastic surgery (tummy tuck) in about a year from now. I am still losing. Only 7.5 lbs last month. I can tell my weight loss is slowing down. But it should at this point because I am thinner than I started. I do have plateaus and they usually last 7-10 days and I have them every month. My first plateau was 3 weeks after surgery and I really freaked out.

I thought at the time I would be the one who failed. All in all my weight lost has been very regular.

I recently had my gallbladder out, I had stones although I took Actigal twice a day every day for 7 1/2 months following surgery. I never missed any doses. Realizing no drugs are full proof and it was just meant for me to have this gallbladder out. The gallbladder surgery lasted 55 minutes and I have had no problems recovering from it. Although I don't post very often,

I do thank everyone who does post on this site. It really has helped me to hear your concerns and solutions.

  My weight the night I left home for MGB was 328 pounds, this morning (2/8/04) I weighed 240 pounds. I am 5' 7" tall and held my weight pretty good, until the last couple of years. I was not haunted by any medical problems due to my weight, but I attributed that to only being 35 years old.
  I knew that it was coming though, because I didn't feel well. My feet ached everyday and I had little control over my bladder. My stomach had gotten so heavy, that it was causing some problems. I had two girlfriends that were sisters that had RNY surgery July 2002 and I thought that they had both lost their minds. I began to research this after they were dropping weight like crazy. I requested an informational packed from their doctor here locally and did not feel comfortable enough to just send in the questionnaire. I stumbled upon C.L.O.S. in October and began to read the manual. I never left this sight. I didn't know how, but I knew I would have this done. I began working on my packet officially in March 2003 and went to the bank for a loan in May. I sent in my completed packet in June and on August 27, 2003 I was the blessed owner of an MGB.  I was so anxious to meet everyone after numerous phone calls and conversations.
  The morning of surgery I met with Dr. Rutledge and had the joy of spending about 3 hours with him before surgery that morning. He is a trip, he will make you laugh until your side hurts. There was an open talk time with him only for the surgery patients of that day and it was nice. At that time, you can ask him ANYTHING and he will also answer very honestly. He was very personable and friendly and I felt completely comfortable with him.
  That's just how they make you feel. You will be more prepared for this surgery through your packet and have full knowledge of everything that is going on. I know the packet is very overwhelming and frustrating to most, but I was one of the few that actually enjoyed it. I wanted to know everything there was to know before I went in.
  During my recovery, one of the nurses at the hospital said, that he had never seen patients more aware of what was done and what type of recovery to exspect than Dr. Rutledge's patients. He wants to make sure that you know exactly what you are doing and make sure you are fully aware of what you are to exspect.
  Physically I have had no problems what so ever. It was a breeze to recover from MGB. Mentally, I really had a hard time. Thirty five years of bad habits are hard to break and let's face it, if I was not addicted to food I would have not been there in the first place. I actually morned food and wanted it back. I wanted to loose the weight with still being able to eat like I did before, well, let me tell you that you can not eat like before.
  My husband asked me to give him a percentage of what I thought I ate now to then. I eat about 10% of what I ate before. That is an amazing difference, I am a country girl with a thanksgiving meal on the table every night and I ate ALOT. I really did not realize how much I ate until I didn't eat it anymore. I think that sometimes you convince yourself after being fat for so long that you really don't eat that much and you don't know why you are fat. You do eat alot, or you wouldn't be in this boat.
  If I were asked if I would recommend this to anyone, absolutely. I was very please with everything, The doctor, the staff and the hospital. I hope I have answered all of your questions, if not email me with a specific question and I will try to answer it the best that I can.

I would love to be a contact for you. Here is my story. If I missed any questions please let me know and I'll try to answer them. My name is Val Rocheleau I live in Michigan. My surgery date was Nov. 22, 2002.

My husband and myself both had the surgery done on the same day. I had mine done first and it took 30 min. I was up and walking around the halls with in a few hours after my surgery,

I had very little pain, I wouldn't' even call it pain it was uncomfortable feeling.

I was in the hospital for a little over 24 hours, and was shopping at Wal-Mart that night when I got back to the hotel. My start out weight was 247 lbs. and 2.5 weeks out I'm at 235 so I've lost 12 lbs. It's coming off slower than some people but I'm satisfied with it, I know it will come off in time.

Before the surgery I was a type II diabetic and right now my blood sugars are running in the 90's, so I maybe able to get off the pills soon. I also have sleep apnea which should also go away soon, I have back & neck problems due to my weight.

Dr. Rutledge is a very good surgeon and a very understanding man. He has changed my life for the better and I thank him for it. I now have hope to have a healthier life with my children. His office staff is also so kind and caring, anytime you have any questions or concerns they are always there to help you out.

Davis Regional hospital was also great people, we got excellent care while we were in the hospital. It's very clean and very professional there. The nurses were very kind and caring to us.

I am still in stage II of the diet since it's only been a few weeks out. I am waiting for the days when we can eat regular food again but of course a lot less of it, but the broths and soft foods gets old real fast. I am not a big fan of yogurt but I have to learn to like it since we have to have it the rest of our lives, I seem to like the whipped yogurt the best. Gatorade is not bad, we tend to like the ice Gatorade the best, the other flavors seems too sweet to us.

We researched the MGB months and months before going through with it. I almost had the Bariatric surgery a year ago but my husband talked me out of it at the time he just didn't' think it was a safe thing to do, then we went to a clinic Dr. Rutledge had in our town and we were both interested in what he had to say, he answered everyone's questions very honestly which really impressed me. I truly trust this man 100% he's a great Doctor. Would I do this again Yes if I had to every year I would but thank God this is only a one time thing I won't have to every year. I'm looking forward to being able to go out and play ball with my kids without getting out of breath.

Good Luck and keep me informed on your progress I always like to hear success stories. If you have any other questions please feel free to email me anytime.

Well, at one month (and a couple days now), I am feeling wonderful! For those of you who are just post-op & are wondering if you made the right decision, each day gets even better! I have lost 27lbs and people are starting to notice! How exciting this has been & is! And how glad I am that Pepto Bismol is over with! YUCK!

I have a really hard time remembering to eat! How strange is that! I really have to be conscientious & plan in order to get in the things that I think I need (protein shake, yogurt, etc.). Most days I could go all day with only drinking my Gatorade & V8! Today I managed to have a couple bites of cottage cheese for lunch & mashed potatoes for dinner. I had part of a buffalo chicken sandwich the other night (a craving) & it went better than expected. Until the "orange" after-effects (it was a deep fried sandwich w/ dressing & cheese on it).

I really think that there is a lot to that ghrelin theory. I'm just not hungry! I love it! I actually drive to work without automatically thinking about stopping at McDonald's on the way.

Anyway, I'll stop rambling now. How are the rest of my Oct. 23rd friends doing?

I am happy to be a contact for you. Here's my basic info:

Joyce C. Age 49, Female Pre op weight 217, current weight 194 Pre op BMI 41, current BMI 36 Dance Date 10/23/02 Pre op BP without meds 210/105 now without meds 121/76 everyday

I have been heavy most of my life. Failed at every imaginable diet and plan. My life is wonderful, but this part was a mess. I had high blood pressure, new onset diabetes, arthritis, swollen lower extermities, lethargy, etc. I chose MGB and Dr. Rutledge after lots of research, and a friend of mine had it done by Dr. R in June of 2002 and was down 75 lbs in three months.

Dr. Rutledge is a terrific surgeon, 20 years of trauma surgery in his experience. He has performed over 1500 MGB's and this was the man I wanted. He was terrific. Very personable and knowledgeable. You could see the skill level and confidence on his face. I wanted someone who would know what to do if he got into trouble inside of me and was confident this was the man.

My surgery lasted 52 minutes, and I was # 7 of 8 on my surgery day. His staff is very compasionate and caring and patient. The hospital staff is equally impressive.

I am thrilled at my progress so far. Its not even 2 weeks and my clothes fit better, my watch fits, my feet are not swollen and I am back to work full time, full of energy.

Would I do it again? YES YES YES

I would advise my own sister or child to do it if the need arose. It is still major surgery, but by operating thru the laparascope, the surgrey time is shortened and that speeds up the recovery time.

If I can help in any other way, feel free to contact me.

Good luck in your journey.

I don't post much anymore, but I do try and read all of your posts. Today marks my 2 year MGB anniversary. I am doing great, and cannot believe that it has already been 2 years. I have maintained by weight for the past year or so, as I lost most of my weight within the first 10 months. When I arrived in Durham I was wearing a size 18/20 and I am now happily wearing anywhere from a 3/4 to 5/6. I don't have any problems with food, and can eat just about anything. I have become a "Gatorade - aholic"!!

I can't begin to tell you how much my life has changed, and how I have changed as a person. I know you all understand where I'm coming from. My oldest son (14) said to me the other night that he can't remember what I looked like 2 years ago, and its hard to believe that I was ever heavy after looking at me now. My youngest son (6) tells me "mommy, you were never fat, what are you talking about!" I have so much more energy and am so active in everything.

I hope to meet a lot of you in Las Vegas at the seminar. I'm really excited to finally meet my MGB family that I have spoken to for the last two years, but never had the chance to personally meet!!!

Love to all of you,

I don't post very often but do read. Just wanted to share my 2 year anniversary with you all. My surgery was 10/09/2000. Pretty typical, no real pain or problems. My starting weight was 232 and as of this morning I'm holding steady at 155. I've been this weight for about a year now so I guess the process is finished for me. I'm still 20 lbs from goal, but I can live with this. I went from a size 22 pant to a 12 (once in a while a 10), and from 2X top to a large. My ring size went from a 8 to a 5 1/2. I don't follow the plan as well as I should and if I did I believe those last 20 would come off. I have never dumped and had reflux only sporadically. Well, just wanted everyone to know how pleased I am.

To have this surgery will be the best decision you ever make.
 I am 64 yrs. old. Have lots of health problems, and used credit cards to pay for it.

Yes, I am now on the other side, had my dance with Dr. Rutledge this past Wednesday, the 28th.

 We went to Statesville on Tues. stayed at the Holiday Inn Express, (which is a beautiful place) I was the only one who had surgery that day.

Took Dr.R. all of 28 mins. for it.

 Woke up ,with hardly any pain at all.

Stayed overnight at the hospital that night

.Went to the Motel the next morning.

 We went shopping that afternoon. To Wal Mart of course. I wanted to walk. That is very important, walking--it helps with the soreness.

 We came home today- feel great !!! 

Sorry for the long post, but wanted everyone to know that I am home, and doing well. Thanks for all the prayers and calls. I feel really blessed. Till next time- Laverne.

Aug.28th,233 lbs. Sept.1st, 224 lbs.

Here are the answers to your questions:

1. Would you do it again?
Absolutely!!! But I hope I don't have to!

2. What was you pain level (from 1 to 10)?
None, whatever number that is.

3. How long was it before you returned to work after having the surgery?
One week, mainly because of the stay in Statesville requirement.

4. What was your experience like with Dr. Rutledge, his staff and the hospital?
Dr. Rutledge is exceptionally talented and very caring. His staff has all had the MGB, so they understand. And the hospital was very hospitable. All in all, a pleasant group of people.

5. Do you have anything negative to say about the surgery or after effects?
Nothing yet. I'm just 6 weeks in, but so far I have no problems.

6. Date of surgery and before and after weights.
April 11, 2002. 338/293 

So glad to hear your one year update. You were an inspiration to me when I was sitting on the porch waiting for the good Dr to start up again. That was an extremely tough time for all pre-ops and we needed all the positive feedback we could absorb. Thanks again and continued good luck.

This is Carol from the UP - stay at the Statesville Holiday Inn Express. The rates are $50 per night for a suite and they have an outdoor pool and breakfast. In Asheville NC - is the Biltmore Estates (Vanderbilt mansion) - you can spend a whole day there and it is really NEAT! They have a winery and carriage ride and a NEAT hotel there. We saw it and it is unbelievable!

Tell Dr R - I said HI and enjoy your vacation!

Carol

This is Margaret, 2/28/01. I am having so much fun with my new body, mind and spirit. My health is fantastic with a mild case of anemia. It is my hope that all of our 2/28/01 littermates are doing wonderful and are in good health. I shall make sure that I post pictures in the near future.

God Bless to everyone and most of all to Dr. R who made it possible.

My name is L'Tanya B. I had surgery 09/06/00. I have lost 178 pounds. I have not had any complications, pains or anything. I can RUN upstairs, I can walk for miles, and in fact I will be walking 50 miles for the Muscular Dystrophy in June. I am so pleased with myself I don't know what to do.

I took out some pants I bought when I had lost 50 pounds and they were a size 28. I now wear a 12. WHAT ABOUT THAT!!! I have a life now thanks to Dr. R. I will never be able to thank him enough for what he has allowed me to do. He gave me the opportunity to live. For that I am very grateful to him and I always will be.

I now weigh 169. I can eat anything I like, but I just don't like to. Some things such as chicken still hurt me. There was a lady that bragged about being able to eat 2 steak biscuits from Hardies when she was only a couple of months post-op. I don't see how in heck she was able to do it. I am going on 2 years and I still can't eat that. I have to be careful about eating. I still have the mindset or mentality that I have always had and I am not that person anymore.

I will fix my plate like I always have and will only eat three or four bites. Sometimes, I will just go back to eating the yogurt, Jell-O, and soup. I don't have to worry when I eat that. Over all though, I wouldn’t change a thing.

I went home to Georgia this past weekend and the people there didn't even know whom I was. Now that feels GOOD. I had a complication with my lungs when I had the surgery. That was brought on by my own stubbornness. I didn't stop smoking as I was told. Dr. R stood by me until the very end. I would sometimes wake up and although I was unable to speak with all of the tubing, he would be there. I love him and I respect him to the highest. Having worked in healthcare for 33 years, I have never met a doctor that cared so much about his patients.

I know I talk a lot, but I have not posted in a while. I have not been able due to work to make it to any of the gatherings we have, but I am still a part of you and think of all of you daily. May God bless and keep you all is my prayer.

Went shopping today. :)))))))))) Rhea, Linda, Jon, Chip, Cyndi, Michelle and "ya'll"... drum roll please.... size 8P was too big. Size 6 petite was a perfect fit ... even with the new frontage! Kisses and blessings on doc R... and on my wonderful docs Rashid, Jose and Clara! In April of 99 I was in a size 32-34 W. ....................nuff said?

It's been a while since I posted. Hope everyone is well, and a special hello to all the friends I met at the Christmas party. It was one of the best nights of my life.

Well, today is my ten-month anniversary. I was looking at pictures of myself at last year's birthday party and goodness, what a difference! As of today I have lost 113 lbs!

When I submitted my packet, I thought that any weight in the 170s would be a goal for me and as of today I weigh 179. Now, anything I lose will be gravy. I will probably lose another 10 when I have my skin cut off some time in the future. I'm not worrying about it right now, but I really do get bothered by having to tuck my tummy into my pants, lol!

This surgery has been more than I ever dreamed; I feel wonderful, I eat what I want (although I have been bitten by the snack bug lately, so I am trying to get more protein), and I am no longer a slave to food. I simply love my life! My children have a mother who can keep up with them and I have a normal happy life for the first time as an adult.

I am so grateful for everyone who has supported me through this process and I will be forever grateful to Dr. Rutledge for this life saving surgery.

God Bless All,

I don't post often but I do read the posts if time permits and I feel as if I know all of you. So, today on the 1 year anniversary of my MGB and I want to share some thoughts with all of you.

I am down 100# and now weigh 192#. I had dreams of losing 146# by this anniversary, but I just didn't make it, but you know when I stop and look back to why I had the MGB, I remember that it was to become healthier and happier and I have reached that goal. All of my one-year labs came back great; I no longer take BP medicines; my antidepressant has been reduced; and I feel great. To be almost 57 years old, I'm in great shape and I'm active and almost pain free and if I had not had this surgery I'd never be able to say all of this. So, yes it was worth it and it was a success. I will try to exercise more and make healthier choices in my diet and who knows, maybe I will lose that other 46#, but if I don't, it's okay, because I am healthier and I feel great and I am OKAY!

Today, I dressed in my most hip outfit & shoes; curled my hair; put on make-up and jewelry and went to two appointments and a birthday luncheon for a friend. Everywhere I went, people told me how wonderful I looked and you know, for the first time I can ever remember, I felt like I did look good and it felt GREAT. This has been a year of changes and to be able to say I felt like I looked good is quite an accomplishment in itself! This improvement in my self-esteem is also wonderful thing. I appreciate the support of my family, my local friends, and all of you - my MGB friends. The joy I feel today would never have been possible without my PCP, the MGB and Dr. Rutledge. I thank God for all of these blessings in my life.

Peggy P.

MGB 1/17/01