I'm not the most diligent blogger. In fact, I have been very remiss. Truth is, there isn't much to say in between monthly doctor visits.
It seems we've been so wicked busy living life that it's been forever since my last post. So a quick recap, I'm desperately seeking insurance approval from Cigna for a Roux-en-y gastric bypass surgery. I had gastric lap band surgery in May of 2006 and dropped 50 lbs. However, once I starting getting band adjustments or "fills", I proceeded to regurgitate my meals. Weight loss ceased. In fact, I eventually gained. In January of 2010 I was fed up enough that I had the band completely drained. It sat dormant in my body until November 2013 when I was denied by Cigna for the first time on the grounds of being "non-compliant" with my band.
Since that time, I've been seeing my gastric surgeon monthly. If I remember correctly, I've had two "fills" and then the old results came back. Weight loss stalled, I was regurgitating meals more. Very frustrating. The past couple of visits I've been afraid to get a fill. Fortunately, the nurse practitioner, Lily, agreed. So I've been 2-3 months without a fill. She's pretty sure some of the initial fill has likely even evaporated.
I have noticed that my stress level seems to be in direct correlation to my ability to eat. Also I have challenges getting food down at that time of the month. NO idea why that happens, I don't understand; I just know there is a pattern to both.
In April and May I had back to back week long business trips in San Antonio. This certainly didn't help my routine. I completely fell out of my Plexus routine and I quit logging meals and exercise altogether. I'm definitely a creature of habit.
Surprisingly, last Thursday at my May appointment, I'd only gained 2 pounds. I was floored but happy that it wasn't worse like I'd expected (maybe it was my guilt from falling off the wagon).
I had a shit ton of blood work drawn (to the tune of like 10 vials). The only glaring abnormality I saw in the results was a lack of Vitamin D.
It was determined at the last visit that I would not have another fill. But that I needed more documentation to prove "compliance" and resubmit for insurance approval. So they sent me home with papers to log my meals and activity for the next 4-5 weeks. This will arm us for battle with Cigna. Lucky for me, I signed up for Aqua Zumba which starts next Monday. I will go every Monday and Wednesday for 9 weeks. And with my business travel over for a while, I plan to get back on my Plexus track starting tomorrow.
Another short term goal is to give up carbonated beverages like my Diet Rite and any other diet soda. That will be a work in progress, I'm sure.
In other health news, I got the results back from last endometrial biopsy. It came back negative for any sign of cancerous cells, which means the Merina IUD is doing its job, releasing meds that destroy the cancer cells. The negative results means NO MORE biopsies for the next 4.5 years (the remainder of time the IUD is good). Not sure what it means when the 5 years is up; but I'll cross that bridge when I get there. One day at a time for now.
We have Fox for the summer; and I look forward to being active with him. I'll keep you posted on my journey for insurance approval and beyond. Thanks to all of my friends and followers for the encouraging words and heartfelt concern for my well being. It keeps me going.
xoxoxo
Lori
Monday, May 26, 2014
Monday, January 27, 2014
Feelin Lucky
Just a quick update since my second lap-band fill. Got a .25 CC adjustment on Wednesday the 22nd. The first two days, I didn't really notice much difference, as far as restriction goes.
On Saturday, however, I hadn't eaten all day. By the time we sat down at the table for Chinese delivery, my stomach wasn't sure if it was up for food. I ordered my usual "Sauteed String Beans" and plain fried rice. My mouth was watering for green beans, too. But as it turned out, the band wasn't so "hip" on them. I relented, gave it about 15 minutes till my stomach calmed then proceed to eat the rice and a couple crab rangoon only. It seemed to take forever; but it was good and filling despite the lack of green beans!
Sunday morning I attempted a bite of a butter braid. Again, my stomach wasn't into it.
I've noticed a difference this time around. I'm now able to take more than one bit before getting sick...and when I start feeling not so well, I back off, give it some time and go with my gut. If it says, forget it, I cease all attempts, like with the butter braid. If it says, "hey, I think it's just this one thing", I try to continue sans that item....as in the case of the green beans. As I was warned many a time, the band is a fickle thing. It may restrict something one day and be ok with it the next.
I've yet to get violently ill like in years past. Now, I step back, give it a moment and then finish when I can. So far that kind of patience has been beneficial.
I don't step on my scale at home; so I won't have the weight loss results until I weigh in each visit at the doctor's office. Those updates will be less frequent. Bear with me.
Sunday afternoon I was able to eat a fair amount. We had dinner out. I enjoyed Chicken Flautas with a cheese sauce on top. I had some of my rice; but didn't really finish it like I would have normally.
Today I noticed a really cool thing. For the first time since I've had my band, I actually felt like it was working the way it is supposed to. Silly yet an AMAZING feeling. I was able to eat breakfast (a Quaker bar and a slice of string cheese and some iced tea). No problems whatsoever.
For lunch, I warmed up some leftovers, a foil pack....one hamburger patty with cheese on it and small potato. I was able to eat about a a third to half the burger (which was 4 oz to begin with) and one small potato. I felt full and satisfied. So I threw the rest away. GLADLY.
For dinner this evening, I made taco soup, which is on the Weight Watchers plan. I ate one bowl and felt fine. It was nice to feel satisfied and be able to walk away. I'm really hoping this is an indication that the tool is working. These symptoms are not something I ever experienced back in 2006-2009.
In a perfect world, the band will work for me and I can avoid gastric bypass surgery altogether. For now, I am remaining optimistic.
I placed my order for Plexus Slim with Accelerator today, along with their ProBiotic product. Anxious to see how I feel on it. My next small goal is to cut soda out altogether and increase activity, simply by tracking steps, etc
I haven't been snacking between meals; and I've stocked up on some healthier snack options, which is a very small step. But I'm still thrilled about it. I sliced 2 huge bunches of ripe bananas up this evening and froze them in probably 20-30 baggies full for a quick, grab and go snack option. I find I eat whatever I can get my hands on when I want a snack. The trick is to be armed with healthier options.
I'll keep updating with the good, bad and ugly as I make new observations and take things on a day to day basis.
Thanks to everyone for the words of encouragement and the generous offers to help in miscellaneous ways.
2014 is the Year of Lori! I BELIEVE!!!
On Saturday, however, I hadn't eaten all day. By the time we sat down at the table for Chinese delivery, my stomach wasn't sure if it was up for food. I ordered my usual "Sauteed String Beans" and plain fried rice. My mouth was watering for green beans, too. But as it turned out, the band wasn't so "hip" on them. I relented, gave it about 15 minutes till my stomach calmed then proceed to eat the rice and a couple crab rangoon only. It seemed to take forever; but it was good and filling despite the lack of green beans!
Sunday morning I attempted a bite of a butter braid. Again, my stomach wasn't into it.
I've noticed a difference this time around. I'm now able to take more than one bit before getting sick...and when I start feeling not so well, I back off, give it some time and go with my gut. If it says, forget it, I cease all attempts, like with the butter braid. If it says, "hey, I think it's just this one thing", I try to continue sans that item....as in the case of the green beans. As I was warned many a time, the band is a fickle thing. It may restrict something one day and be ok with it the next.
I've yet to get violently ill like in years past. Now, I step back, give it a moment and then finish when I can. So far that kind of patience has been beneficial.
I don't step on my scale at home; so I won't have the weight loss results until I weigh in each visit at the doctor's office. Those updates will be less frequent. Bear with me.
Sunday afternoon I was able to eat a fair amount. We had dinner out. I enjoyed Chicken Flautas with a cheese sauce on top. I had some of my rice; but didn't really finish it like I would have normally.
Today I noticed a really cool thing. For the first time since I've had my band, I actually felt like it was working the way it is supposed to. Silly yet an AMAZING feeling. I was able to eat breakfast (a Quaker bar and a slice of string cheese and some iced tea). No problems whatsoever.
For lunch, I warmed up some leftovers, a foil pack....one hamburger patty with cheese on it and small potato. I was able to eat about a a third to half the burger (which was 4 oz to begin with) and one small potato. I felt full and satisfied. So I threw the rest away. GLADLY.
For dinner this evening, I made taco soup, which is on the Weight Watchers plan. I ate one bowl and felt fine. It was nice to feel satisfied and be able to walk away. I'm really hoping this is an indication that the tool is working. These symptoms are not something I ever experienced back in 2006-2009.
In a perfect world, the band will work for me and I can avoid gastric bypass surgery altogether. For now, I am remaining optimistic.
I placed my order for Plexus Slim with Accelerator today, along with their ProBiotic product. Anxious to see how I feel on it. My next small goal is to cut soda out altogether and increase activity, simply by tracking steps, etc
I haven't been snacking between meals; and I've stocked up on some healthier snack options, which is a very small step. But I'm still thrilled about it. I sliced 2 huge bunches of ripe bananas up this evening and froze them in probably 20-30 baggies full for a quick, grab and go snack option. I find I eat whatever I can get my hands on when I want a snack. The trick is to be armed with healthier options.
I'll keep updating with the good, bad and ugly as I make new observations and take things on a day to day basis.
Thanks to everyone for the words of encouragement and the generous offers to help in miscellaneous ways.
2014 is the Year of Lori! I BELIEVE!!!
Wednesday, January 22, 2014
It's a New Year!
Happy New Year! I hope those of you who are following my "journey" had a wonderful holiday season. I sure did! Wow, what a difference a year makes. In the past year, I found a phenomenal job (after a hellacious year off) and began the process of rebounding and rebuilding my adult life here in St. Louis. I look back and think....if this much changed in one year, a LOT can change this year. So, I'm putting one foot in front of the other and praying for a constant forward motion over the next 300 some odd days. Care to take a walk with me?
Many of my friends and family have been curious to know what became of me after my first lap band fill since 2010. That took place on December 2nd, 2013. The good news is, I lived to tell about it. And so the story goes.
After my initial Re-fill, things got a little crazy in my life (as they sometimes do during the holidays). I made it through the first few days after the fill without any complications....meaning, I didn't hurl any of my food like I'd been known to do with my first go-round of the band (2006-2009). Life was great. I just took one day at a time and slowly the negative expectations I'd had of the fill had turned positive.
I started using a phone app called "Meal Logger" and ordered a pedometer after reading all the reviews, etc. I was on my way....
THEN I was approached about a new position opening up at work and urged to go for it. I'll skip the back story and fast forward to the part where I applied, was offered and accepted the position. So, in a whirlwind of events, I was jetting off to Phoenix the week before Christmas. I don't like to travel for work the way I did when I was single. I find that I prefer to be home now; and I don't like what it does to my routine: I don't take my daily meds like I should, I eat like once a day and tend to eat a lot more then, etc. This new role was going to afford me less travel.....well, after the trip to Arizone for training, that was.
When I got back from that trip, it was just in time for Christmas week, which was a whole other level of chaos, especially with a blended family. Instead of one or two days of celebrations and meals, it's now a long week of tempatations, etc. All in all, I managed very well for our family Christmases. No major events that I can recall.
I've been scrambling with training and taking over the position at work for the past several weeks; and now I'm FINALLY finding a rhythm (although I'm still learning). I have had a few "episodes" of puking over the past few weeks. Although it's not like "vomiting" as you know it. It's a different feeling and experience altogether and lasts longer than actual puking. Anyway, I chalk the setbacks up to a combination of stress, waiting too long to eat then eating too fast and not properly chewing, etc. No complaints. I'll "own" that.
Twice in the past week I was surprised to receive voice mail messages to confirm follow up doctor appointments that I'd long forgotten about. Oops. I guess there was no escaping them. Damned doctors are keeping me honest.
One visit was for my sleep apnea doc who wanted to see how I've been doing on my new machine and titration level. That appointment went seamlessly last Friday; and I should be getting a new mask soon to avoid air leakage. Bada Bing, Bada Boom!
Then I decided I better make my follow up with Dr. Scott (my bariatric surgeon) since I was supposed to go 3 weeks after my fill which put me into the time when I was in the midst of a job change, travel, holidays, etc. I was already behind the 8 ball! But I didn't want to be off track for long. Soooo, I went today at 10 am.
Little did I realize that after I'd committed to that, I'd get yet another "surprise" call to confirm the most dreaded of all appointments. The one where I had to go back to my OB/GYN for a follow up to a scare I had back in late October. I had to get my second endometrial biopsy as a follow up to a diagnosis of precancerous cell activity in my uterus. FLIPPIN JOY. Cos the first one wasn't enough "fun".
Mind, you, I'm still learning the ropes in my new position. I don't like to be away from the office and my desk for long at all. I'm slower than I have time to be in the new position; and a short time away buries me. BUT, I decide I better go to both appointments in one day or I'll never go, kinda thing.
Sooooo
This morning I literally ran out the door at 9:45 am for a 10 am appointment on the other side of town. It seemed impossible for me to make it by 10 am; but I hopped in the car and drove like the former Johnson Countian I am (think autobahn). I was there by 10:03.......only to walk into the usual overcrowded waiting room full of unhappy people waiting to be seen. I try to be patient and complete all the forms for the "new year". ARGH. It was past 11 am when I was finally called back! ONE HOUR later than my scheduled appointment.
The nurse weighed me and took my blood pressure. Good news, I lost a whole 3 pounds since my last visit. Bad news, it wasn't the target 1-2 lbs per week that is the goal with the band. At 7.5 weeks post fill IF I was at my "sweet spot" I should have lost between 7.5 to 15 lbs) Hey, after the holidays and all, I was happy that I showed a LOSS at that point. BABY STEPS.
I first saw the dietician which is like taking the morning walk of shame after shacking with some guy. I had to explain to her that the whole Meal Logger application lasted like 2 days then I got busy with work and fell off the tracking wagon. And I had to go on to explain that I had a cheap pedometer that kept falling off of me every day; so I ordered a new one from Amazon that arrived with a broken screen. And I've been too busy/lazy/etc. to call and fight with Amazon for a replacement. I will do that next, I suppose. So I had a whole 2 days of meals logged and ZERO activity to show her. OUCH. As the old SlapShot line goes, I needed to "go to penalty box..." you "feel shame".
Side note: I did get a nice gift for my 1 Year Anniversary at work....a voucher to purchase something from the Company Store. So I bought a pedometer. I'm not sure how quality it is, given it's like a promo item. But I ordered one nonetheless. And I had money to spare; so I also got a long sleeve shirt with the company logo. Usually when I buy company logo items, that's about the time they get rid of me!!! I digress!
The goal for my next follow up (scheduled for 2-19) is to have some meals tracked and physical activity to report (logging steps per day, etc). I plan to download a different app, called My Fitness Pal to begin the next phase of this task. And I plan to call Amazon and get a replacement as well as follow up as to where my company order is. The dietician went easy on me and reminded me of the following:
"Weight loss is like a four legged stool. If you lose one leg of the stool, your weight loss progress will be off balance". While it may be a great visual....I felt like I have regressed to kindergarten levels. The next reminder was: "The band is only a TOOL. YOU determine your success. Often the answer to slowed weight loss or weight regain has little to do with the band and more to do with changes in eating and exercise habits.". I think the point she was trying to drive home is that I am the creator of my own destiny and that I have to EXERCISE to be successful, too. Doesn't she know I have an allergy to it???? Her other flyer outlined the following tops to begin exercising:
1) Practice Discipline (this is something I seem to lack everywhere in my life except work, strange but true)
2) Exercise Consistently (Um, yea..........gotta work on that)
3) Keep it Simple....10 min at first and working o 30 min a day (seems do-able)
4) Never do zero exercise (GUILTY....as in, repeat offender)
Ok, so in all seriousness, she made her point and then I proceeded to wait another 30 or so minutes before the doctor (actually it was his Nurse Practitioner) saw me. She was the person who gave me the fill back in December. She was awesome. She went over some basics with me, asked me how I'd felt, how often my "episodes" were happening and what triggered them. She also went on to imply that perhaps I should get creative in what I report to the dietician in order to build a business case for a certain insurance company to approve the bypass surgery. However, we both remained hopeful that perhaps the second time around with the band, I'd find success and be able to forego another surgery. Time will tell. But it is a "game" and it is "business". Fortunately for me, I know how "business" works! I shall play the game in addition to following the rules to the best of my ability and willpower.
Toward the end of our conversation she asked ME if I thought I needed another fill today. Based on the fact that I can still eat a plate full of food (and knowing that I should only be able to eat about half that) and that I hadn't lost the expected amount once one reaches their "sweet spot", I said yes. She agreed. She explained that on Dec. 2nd they tried to give me 1.50 cc's of fluid but could tell via the Fluroscope that I was "too full" (it sounds so much nicer than "too tight" which is the term they use). So at that time they only filled me 1.00 cc's. Knowing that I am too tight at 1.5 cc's, she decided to give me an additional .25 cc's to take me to 1.25 cc's total (in my band).
When you get a "fill" you wind up starting your dietary restrictions you had post surgery over again (temporarily) until the stomach can "heal" from the trauma of the fill. So, I am on a liquid diet today, tomorrow I will be on soft foods and on Friday I can graduate to solid foods. It's the same drill each time you have a band adjustment aka "fill".
I go back in 4 weeks for my next follow up and to report in on my meals and fitness tracking. I'm not sure what happened suddenly; but I'm feeling optimistic about this. Thank Goodness. Maybe I just need to think it to believe it to achieve it, who knows?!
I got out of there JUST IN TIME to high tail it on down 40 to O'Fallon to the OB/GYN appointment at 1 pm. And I just made it. Glad I didn't have any WORK or anything to do today?!
I still hadn't eaten.....going long periods without eating is highly discouraged yet here I was again.....racing from one place to another on a schedule that doesn't allow time for breaks. Story of my life! I REALLY dislike living by a schedule day in and day out!
This was the appointment I was dreading. I certainly survived my first endometrial biopsy. But it was one of those uncomfortable things for about 5 minutes in reality yet it felt like an eternity. Ladies, picture this. Men, picture something similar like your "twins" in a vice grip and being tugged and needles coming at them and removing skin samples from them. Ok, back to the ladies..........so I'm on this exam table (you know the drill) and it's time. The procedure involves a long very thin tube like apparatus that is inserted into your lady town area past the cervix on up to the very tip top of the uterus, think equator to the North Pole. But then she discovers your cervix has a mind of it's own, so it decides to dance around a little to where she needs to grip it and hold it while doing the biopsy, think vice grip on your womanhood! I'm not exaggerating!!! This "pulling" on the cervix results in not only some severe discomfort that cannot pass soon enough; but also gives you the sensation that you are literally going to have a gastric explosion in the doctor's face....and I'm not talking air. It is THE.WORST.FEELING.EVER. Mind, you, I've never given birth; so I'm sure most women could top my story. But this was a pretty miserable feeling for me....and I hated that I felt like if I did have to do something gross, I was not in control. MORTIFYING. And this made for the second longest stretch of 5 minutes in my life. Lucky me, she got the tissue samples she needed, cleaned me up and got me out of there. Not.Fast.Enough!!! I survived a second time. I should know the results in a matter of days.
Now then, I asked her how often I'm going to need these (already dreading the inevitable next one). She usually does one at 3 mos after the IUD (which was the only treatment option I had available and was done in Oct) and 3 mos after the 2nd. So, I get to have my third on 4-23. She says usually by then the cancerous cells are gone. Seriously, prayers are much appreciated!!! I do NOT like having to do this!!!
Other than the possibility of having to see my internist to treat whatever this cold I'm coming down with is, I think I have a reprieve from doctors for at least 4 weeks! Hey, I'm celebrating the little things these days!!! Maybe I can enjoy my birthday and Valentine's Day without that stress looming!
I didn't go into much detail about what the experience is like when a lap band patient gets food "stuck" above the band. But I'll be happy to explain it to anyone who is curious enough to learn more about it. It's just one more GROSS reality about me that my poor husband has to endure!
I have a friend who is on Plexis Slim and has had great results. At first I thought it was just another fad or multi-level marketing scheme; but I've read too many testimonials of everyday people like you and me. So, I'm looking into taking that as well; but plan to run it past the dietician first. I'll keep everyone posted if I go that route and document my success with that, as well.
For now, I'm just HAPPY with life the way it's FINALLY falling together after moving home in Dec. 2011. Proof that patience and persistence pay off. Got the job that is perfect for me, settled in on the homefront, getting my routines ironed out and now this goal to work on. I always seem to have something to strive for. Now it's lap band success and weight loss. This will be a years long endeavor I'm sure. Probably something I work on for the remainder of my lifetime. And I'm runnin out of time. So I better get on it. I'm not getting any younger; and I've got things to to with Fox before he gets too old!
But first, I'm gonna go hop my arse in bed and nurse this bug.............stay tuned...........and a heartfelt thank you for choosing to walk with me. I love my family and friends.
Lori
Many of my friends and family have been curious to know what became of me after my first lap band fill since 2010. That took place on December 2nd, 2013. The good news is, I lived to tell about it. And so the story goes.
After my initial Re-fill, things got a little crazy in my life (as they sometimes do during the holidays). I made it through the first few days after the fill without any complications....meaning, I didn't hurl any of my food like I'd been known to do with my first go-round of the band (2006-2009). Life was great. I just took one day at a time and slowly the negative expectations I'd had of the fill had turned positive.
I started using a phone app called "Meal Logger" and ordered a pedometer after reading all the reviews, etc. I was on my way....
THEN I was approached about a new position opening up at work and urged to go for it. I'll skip the back story and fast forward to the part where I applied, was offered and accepted the position. So, in a whirlwind of events, I was jetting off to Phoenix the week before Christmas. I don't like to travel for work the way I did when I was single. I find that I prefer to be home now; and I don't like what it does to my routine: I don't take my daily meds like I should, I eat like once a day and tend to eat a lot more then, etc. This new role was going to afford me less travel.....well, after the trip to Arizone for training, that was.
When I got back from that trip, it was just in time for Christmas week, which was a whole other level of chaos, especially with a blended family. Instead of one or two days of celebrations and meals, it's now a long week of tempatations, etc. All in all, I managed very well for our family Christmases. No major events that I can recall.
I've been scrambling with training and taking over the position at work for the past several weeks; and now I'm FINALLY finding a rhythm (although I'm still learning). I have had a few "episodes" of puking over the past few weeks. Although it's not like "vomiting" as you know it. It's a different feeling and experience altogether and lasts longer than actual puking. Anyway, I chalk the setbacks up to a combination of stress, waiting too long to eat then eating too fast and not properly chewing, etc. No complaints. I'll "own" that.
Twice in the past week I was surprised to receive voice mail messages to confirm follow up doctor appointments that I'd long forgotten about. Oops. I guess there was no escaping them. Damned doctors are keeping me honest.
One visit was for my sleep apnea doc who wanted to see how I've been doing on my new machine and titration level. That appointment went seamlessly last Friday; and I should be getting a new mask soon to avoid air leakage. Bada Bing, Bada Boom!
Then I decided I better make my follow up with Dr. Scott (my bariatric surgeon) since I was supposed to go 3 weeks after my fill which put me into the time when I was in the midst of a job change, travel, holidays, etc. I was already behind the 8 ball! But I didn't want to be off track for long. Soooo, I went today at 10 am.
Little did I realize that after I'd committed to that, I'd get yet another "surprise" call to confirm the most dreaded of all appointments. The one where I had to go back to my OB/GYN for a follow up to a scare I had back in late October. I had to get my second endometrial biopsy as a follow up to a diagnosis of precancerous cell activity in my uterus. FLIPPIN JOY. Cos the first one wasn't enough "fun".
Mind, you, I'm still learning the ropes in my new position. I don't like to be away from the office and my desk for long at all. I'm slower than I have time to be in the new position; and a short time away buries me. BUT, I decide I better go to both appointments in one day or I'll never go, kinda thing.
Sooooo
This morning I literally ran out the door at 9:45 am for a 10 am appointment on the other side of town. It seemed impossible for me to make it by 10 am; but I hopped in the car and drove like the former Johnson Countian I am (think autobahn). I was there by 10:03.......only to walk into the usual overcrowded waiting room full of unhappy people waiting to be seen. I try to be patient and complete all the forms for the "new year". ARGH. It was past 11 am when I was finally called back! ONE HOUR later than my scheduled appointment.
The nurse weighed me and took my blood pressure. Good news, I lost a whole 3 pounds since my last visit. Bad news, it wasn't the target 1-2 lbs per week that is the goal with the band. At 7.5 weeks post fill IF I was at my "sweet spot" I should have lost between 7.5 to 15 lbs) Hey, after the holidays and all, I was happy that I showed a LOSS at that point. BABY STEPS.
I first saw the dietician which is like taking the morning walk of shame after shacking with some guy. I had to explain to her that the whole Meal Logger application lasted like 2 days then I got busy with work and fell off the tracking wagon. And I had to go on to explain that I had a cheap pedometer that kept falling off of me every day; so I ordered a new one from Amazon that arrived with a broken screen. And I've been too busy/lazy/etc. to call and fight with Amazon for a replacement. I will do that next, I suppose. So I had a whole 2 days of meals logged and ZERO activity to show her. OUCH. As the old SlapShot line goes, I needed to "go to penalty box..." you "feel shame".
Side note: I did get a nice gift for my 1 Year Anniversary at work....a voucher to purchase something from the Company Store. So I bought a pedometer. I'm not sure how quality it is, given it's like a promo item. But I ordered one nonetheless. And I had money to spare; so I also got a long sleeve shirt with the company logo. Usually when I buy company logo items, that's about the time they get rid of me!!! I digress!
The goal for my next follow up (scheduled for 2-19) is to have some meals tracked and physical activity to report (logging steps per day, etc). I plan to download a different app, called My Fitness Pal to begin the next phase of this task. And I plan to call Amazon and get a replacement as well as follow up as to where my company order is. The dietician went easy on me and reminded me of the following:
"Weight loss is like a four legged stool. If you lose one leg of the stool, your weight loss progress will be off balance". While it may be a great visual....I felt like I have regressed to kindergarten levels. The next reminder was: "The band is only a TOOL. YOU determine your success. Often the answer to slowed weight loss or weight regain has little to do with the band and more to do with changes in eating and exercise habits.". I think the point she was trying to drive home is that I am the creator of my own destiny and that I have to EXERCISE to be successful, too. Doesn't she know I have an allergy to it???? Her other flyer outlined the following tops to begin exercising:
1) Practice Discipline (this is something I seem to lack everywhere in my life except work, strange but true)
2) Exercise Consistently (Um, yea..........gotta work on that)
3) Keep it Simple....10 min at first and working o 30 min a day (seems do-able)
4) Never do zero exercise (GUILTY....as in, repeat offender)
Ok, so in all seriousness, she made her point and then I proceeded to wait another 30 or so minutes before the doctor (actually it was his Nurse Practitioner) saw me. She was the person who gave me the fill back in December. She was awesome. She went over some basics with me, asked me how I'd felt, how often my "episodes" were happening and what triggered them. She also went on to imply that perhaps I should get creative in what I report to the dietician in order to build a business case for a certain insurance company to approve the bypass surgery. However, we both remained hopeful that perhaps the second time around with the band, I'd find success and be able to forego another surgery. Time will tell. But it is a "game" and it is "business". Fortunately for me, I know how "business" works! I shall play the game in addition to following the rules to the best of my ability and willpower.
Toward the end of our conversation she asked ME if I thought I needed another fill today. Based on the fact that I can still eat a plate full of food (and knowing that I should only be able to eat about half that) and that I hadn't lost the expected amount once one reaches their "sweet spot", I said yes. She agreed. She explained that on Dec. 2nd they tried to give me 1.50 cc's of fluid but could tell via the Fluroscope that I was "too full" (it sounds so much nicer than "too tight" which is the term they use). So at that time they only filled me 1.00 cc's. Knowing that I am too tight at 1.5 cc's, she decided to give me an additional .25 cc's to take me to 1.25 cc's total (in my band).
When you get a "fill" you wind up starting your dietary restrictions you had post surgery over again (temporarily) until the stomach can "heal" from the trauma of the fill. So, I am on a liquid diet today, tomorrow I will be on soft foods and on Friday I can graduate to solid foods. It's the same drill each time you have a band adjustment aka "fill".
I go back in 4 weeks for my next follow up and to report in on my meals and fitness tracking. I'm not sure what happened suddenly; but I'm feeling optimistic about this. Thank Goodness. Maybe I just need to think it to believe it to achieve it, who knows?!
I got out of there JUST IN TIME to high tail it on down 40 to O'Fallon to the OB/GYN appointment at 1 pm. And I just made it. Glad I didn't have any WORK or anything to do today?!
I still hadn't eaten.....going long periods without eating is highly discouraged yet here I was again.....racing from one place to another on a schedule that doesn't allow time for breaks. Story of my life! I REALLY dislike living by a schedule day in and day out!
This was the appointment I was dreading. I certainly survived my first endometrial biopsy. But it was one of those uncomfortable things for about 5 minutes in reality yet it felt like an eternity. Ladies, picture this. Men, picture something similar like your "twins" in a vice grip and being tugged and needles coming at them and removing skin samples from them. Ok, back to the ladies..........so I'm on this exam table (you know the drill) and it's time. The procedure involves a long very thin tube like apparatus that is inserted into your lady town area past the cervix on up to the very tip top of the uterus, think equator to the North Pole. But then she discovers your cervix has a mind of it's own, so it decides to dance around a little to where she needs to grip it and hold it while doing the biopsy, think vice grip on your womanhood! I'm not exaggerating!!! This "pulling" on the cervix results in not only some severe discomfort that cannot pass soon enough; but also gives you the sensation that you are literally going to have a gastric explosion in the doctor's face....and I'm not talking air. It is THE.WORST.FEELING.EVER. Mind, you, I've never given birth; so I'm sure most women could top my story. But this was a pretty miserable feeling for me....and I hated that I felt like if I did have to do something gross, I was not in control. MORTIFYING. And this made for the second longest stretch of 5 minutes in my life. Lucky me, she got the tissue samples she needed, cleaned me up and got me out of there. Not.Fast.Enough!!! I survived a second time. I should know the results in a matter of days.
Now then, I asked her how often I'm going to need these (already dreading the inevitable next one). She usually does one at 3 mos after the IUD (which was the only treatment option I had available and was done in Oct) and 3 mos after the 2nd. So, I get to have my third on 4-23. She says usually by then the cancerous cells are gone. Seriously, prayers are much appreciated!!! I do NOT like having to do this!!!
Other than the possibility of having to see my internist to treat whatever this cold I'm coming down with is, I think I have a reprieve from doctors for at least 4 weeks! Hey, I'm celebrating the little things these days!!! Maybe I can enjoy my birthday and Valentine's Day without that stress looming!
I didn't go into much detail about what the experience is like when a lap band patient gets food "stuck" above the band. But I'll be happy to explain it to anyone who is curious enough to learn more about it. It's just one more GROSS reality about me that my poor husband has to endure!
I have a friend who is on Plexis Slim and has had great results. At first I thought it was just another fad or multi-level marketing scheme; but I've read too many testimonials of everyday people like you and me. So, I'm looking into taking that as well; but plan to run it past the dietician first. I'll keep everyone posted if I go that route and document my success with that, as well.
For now, I'm just HAPPY with life the way it's FINALLY falling together after moving home in Dec. 2011. Proof that patience and persistence pay off. Got the job that is perfect for me, settled in on the homefront, getting my routines ironed out and now this goal to work on. I always seem to have something to strive for. Now it's lap band success and weight loss. This will be a years long endeavor I'm sure. Probably something I work on for the remainder of my lifetime. And I'm runnin out of time. So I better get on it. I'm not getting any younger; and I've got things to to with Fox before he gets too old!
But first, I'm gonna go hop my arse in bed and nurse this bug.............stay tuned...........and a heartfelt thank you for choosing to walk with me. I love my family and friends.
Lori
Monday, December 2, 2013
FLURO what????
Well here it is, December 2nd. What's the significance you ask? I was scheduled for my first gastric lap band fill in over FOUR years. I've been scared silly about this....for fear that I will not be able to eat solid foods again!
For those just now following along, I had gastric lap band surgery in May of 2006. I drooped 50 pounds instantly; but once my surgeon in KS starting giving me fills I spent the better part of 3 yrs throwing up every meal I attempted. It was a horrible quality of life. My band has been drained and dormant in my body ever since.
So today I saw Dr. Scott with My New Self Bariatric in Des Peres, MO. He chose to do my first band "adjustment" also known as a "fill" under Fluroscopy. A Fluoroscope is like an x-ray machine which allows "real time" or moving images of the body. Here's kinda how it went:
My doctor in KS had a machine in his office; but Dr. Scott does not. He uses the one in the hospital itself. Therefore, I had to go through the entire hospital registration process. Once I made it through that maze, I headed down to Radiology.
Thankfully, they do not require gowns or anything fancy for a band fill. I was able to go into the exam room in my street clothes. They put me on a table similar to an xray table then cleaned my stomach with alcohol in prep for an injection. Next they gave me a shot of Lidocaine to numb the area (this was something my doctor in KS never did.......his philosophy was if I'm gonna stick ya it's only gonna be once). While I never had a problem with they way my former surgeon (Dr. Malley) did fills (other than the fact that I couldn't eat solid food and spent all of my time puking), I have to admit that the Lidocaine was nice. I didn't even feel the other needle (which is a looooong one) go in.
So after the numbing, they inserted the needle that they were going to administer the saline through. This is done via my port which is on the mid right section of my abdomen. When doing a fill under "Fluro" they then raise the table so that I am literally in standing position....while the needle is still in. They hand me what looks like a small plastic bottle of milk. It was actually "contrast". I was told when to drink...and after I'd take a drink, they'd watch the screen to see the contrast/liquid pass through my band. This helps them determine how tight my band is and what they needed to do to create more restriction (tighten it).
Today they gave me 1 cc of saline and instructed me to remain on a liquid diet all day. They do this because often after a fill there can be inflammation of the stomach from the reaction.. It's like we poked the bear, so to speak. And we definitely don't want to piss him off!
So far all I've had today is iced tea. I'm trying to determine while I'll have for dinner that's liquid. I do not want to do BAD things like feed the bear ice cream or carbonation, etc. I'm thinking soup, I mean, what else is there?!
The REAL test will be tomorrow and the days to come. Typically when you have an adjustment you are instructed to eat like you did post surgery...a gradual system of liquids, then mushy foods, then soft then solids. As a lap band patient there are many foods I need to avoid as they are not "band friendly". Mostly, it's things that expand....like bread, pastas, rices.....and things you can't chew down, like steak.
The goal is to eat like 5 oz of protein in VERY tiny pieces and chew till you feel your jaws will fall off so that the food can pass through a dime sized opening at the top of your stomach pouch.
In an ideal world, the lap band will now work for me and I can eat less and lose weight while feeling full. However, I'm skeptical and afraid based on past experiences. This entire exercise of filling and trying the band again is pure necessity, though........to prove compliance and gain insurance approval for gastric bypass surgery IF the band does NOT work for me this go round.
So the outcome has yet to be determined......and I'm a little nervous for the ride that I'm about to take; but it's a necessary evil.......if you want to come along, put on your seat belt cos I'm thinking this will be a bit of a roller coaster.
I'll be posting in the days to come to let you know if I am able to handle soft, mushy and solid foods and if there is any weight loss whatsoever. I'm also looking for a pedometer to track my steps.
Below is a link to a YouTube video of an actual band fill under Fluro.........exactly how mine was conducted earlier today.....in case anyone is curious.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QuAb1sB-RB0
So buckle up buttercups, we're going for a ride.....................
For those just now following along, I had gastric lap band surgery in May of 2006. I drooped 50 pounds instantly; but once my surgeon in KS starting giving me fills I spent the better part of 3 yrs throwing up every meal I attempted. It was a horrible quality of life. My band has been drained and dormant in my body ever since.
So today I saw Dr. Scott with My New Self Bariatric in Des Peres, MO. He chose to do my first band "adjustment" also known as a "fill" under Fluroscopy. A Fluoroscope is like an x-ray machine which allows "real time" or moving images of the body. Here's kinda how it went:
My doctor in KS had a machine in his office; but Dr. Scott does not. He uses the one in the hospital itself. Therefore, I had to go through the entire hospital registration process. Once I made it through that maze, I headed down to Radiology.
Thankfully, they do not require gowns or anything fancy for a band fill. I was able to go into the exam room in my street clothes. They put me on a table similar to an xray table then cleaned my stomach with alcohol in prep for an injection. Next they gave me a shot of Lidocaine to numb the area (this was something my doctor in KS never did.......his philosophy was if I'm gonna stick ya it's only gonna be once). While I never had a problem with they way my former surgeon (Dr. Malley) did fills (other than the fact that I couldn't eat solid food and spent all of my time puking), I have to admit that the Lidocaine was nice. I didn't even feel the other needle (which is a looooong one) go in.
So after the numbing, they inserted the needle that they were going to administer the saline through. This is done via my port which is on the mid right section of my abdomen. When doing a fill under "Fluro" they then raise the table so that I am literally in standing position....while the needle is still in. They hand me what looks like a small plastic bottle of milk. It was actually "contrast". I was told when to drink...and after I'd take a drink, they'd watch the screen to see the contrast/liquid pass through my band. This helps them determine how tight my band is and what they needed to do to create more restriction (tighten it).
Today they gave me 1 cc of saline and instructed me to remain on a liquid diet all day. They do this because often after a fill there can be inflammation of the stomach from the reaction.. It's like we poked the bear, so to speak. And we definitely don't want to piss him off!
So far all I've had today is iced tea. I'm trying to determine while I'll have for dinner that's liquid. I do not want to do BAD things like feed the bear ice cream or carbonation, etc. I'm thinking soup, I mean, what else is there?!
The REAL test will be tomorrow and the days to come. Typically when you have an adjustment you are instructed to eat like you did post surgery...a gradual system of liquids, then mushy foods, then soft then solids. As a lap band patient there are many foods I need to avoid as they are not "band friendly". Mostly, it's things that expand....like bread, pastas, rices.....and things you can't chew down, like steak.
The goal is to eat like 5 oz of protein in VERY tiny pieces and chew till you feel your jaws will fall off so that the food can pass through a dime sized opening at the top of your stomach pouch.
In an ideal world, the lap band will now work for me and I can eat less and lose weight while feeling full. However, I'm skeptical and afraid based on past experiences. This entire exercise of filling and trying the band again is pure necessity, though........to prove compliance and gain insurance approval for gastric bypass surgery IF the band does NOT work for me this go round.
So the outcome has yet to be determined......and I'm a little nervous for the ride that I'm about to take; but it's a necessary evil.......if you want to come along, put on your seat belt cos I'm thinking this will be a bit of a roller coaster.
I'll be posting in the days to come to let you know if I am able to handle soft, mushy and solid foods and if there is any weight loss whatsoever. I'm also looking for a pedometer to track my steps.
Below is a link to a YouTube video of an actual band fill under Fluro.........exactly how mine was conducted earlier today.....in case anyone is curious.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QuAb1sB-RB0
So buckle up buttercups, we're going for a ride.....................
Tuesday, November 19, 2013
Yesterday's meeting of the minds!
So, yesterday I had a noon appointment with Dr. Scott for what I thought was going to be my first lap band fill since 2009. My appointment for October 30th was cancelled due to my 3-4 week illness.
The anxiety that built up in the 24 hours prior to my appointment was off the charts. I got so worked up with the fear of puking every single bite or meal for another 3 years. I spent a good amount of time reminding myself that it had to be done, that it would be temporary, that it was a means to an end, etc. Nothing made me feel better!
I arrived to a standing room only waiting room of strange people. One lady who looked to be average (versus oversize) who was seated in a chair beside an empty chair. These chairs are super wide and cater to the clientele that would be typical of a weight loss surgery practice. As I approach the empty super size chair, she scoots over in hers as far away as she can get. I'm thinking to myself, "does she think I need my super size chair AND hers to sit down? Sheesh!" or "Does she think I smell? Like what the hell?"
But I sat quietly and remained well over arms length from her so I didn't get my St. Charles smelly ass near her!
My appointment was at noon. I arrived on time. I didn't get called back until close to 1 pm. It's like you have to take the day off anymore to go to the doctor........trying to do it over lunch is near impossible!
When the nurse took my blood pressure it was high....they took it a total of 3 times. Once it was like 97/110 and I forgot the other times (I've slept since then).
Dr. Scott eventually made his way to the exam room; and we discussed CIGNA's denial and what the next steps needed to be. Here's what he had to say:
#1....he wants to do my fill under a Fluoroscope machine (similar to an x ray machine). His reason is that he will have images he can SHOW CIGNA when trying to build my case for Gastric Bypass surgery, making it easier to prove that we're doing all the right things and the lap band is simply not working in my case. One word: DOCUMENTATION!!! I actually prefer this since it's his first time giving me a fill. I want to be sure he SEES where my port is and injects the saline in the right place. Unfortunately (unlike my surgeon in KS), he does not have one in his office. He uses the one in the hospital (his office is in a building beside Des Peres Hospital). Sooooo.....it had to be scheduled and couldn't be done at the time.
He only does them on Monday mornings, which doesn't leave many options for scheduling. Next Monday was out of the question as I'll have to take some time away from work on Tuesday for Fox's Autism screening appointment. So, I scheduled it for the following Monday, Dec. 2nd. It's embarrassing literally having to tell your boss that EVERY week you're going to be at this doctors or that doctors. And it seems like I can never just go several weeks without seeing a damned doctor!!!
#2....his goal is to try to prove the need for Bypass surgery and gain CIGNA's approval at the end of 3 months. This had me relieved because IF I do start puking all my meals again, I don't think I will make it long at all before I say "F this"! Hoping I can manage as long as it takes to get insurance approval.
#3....one of the other things CIGNA stated in the denial was that I needed to see a nutritionist and have a diet and exercise program and without that, I was "non compliant". Soooo......for every office visit I make to him, I will now also see the nutritionist. This is completely fine by me. And it usually only involves 10 more minutes.
#4....he did say that if I started vomiting my meals, it may involve additional testing of the ph levels and such in my esophagus (again building the case). When I think about it, it's kind of stupid, cos we're going to spend money (which insurance will end up being billed) to build the case.......whereas if they'd just approved the damned surgery to begin with, the tab would be lower over all. But what do I know? I mean, after all I don't have the PhD! Incidentally, the person at the insurance company denying the surgery IS a physician.
After my visit with Dr. Scott, I met with the nutritionist. She advised me that I need to be taking iron and calcium and mentioned that as a lap band patient, I could very well have nutritional deficiencies. No biggie, the hardest part for me is remembering to take them. I can't take them together, however, as the calcium can reduce the effectiveness of the iron.
She also decided that I should start with a simple walking system....stating that I need a pedometer and to keep a log of my daily steps. Ok, at this point I'll do whatever it takes to document all I can to get the damned approval! Now all I need is a pedometer!!!
I'm also going to be keeping a food journal (this ought to be way interesting). I do think this will be good as I'll be FORCED to look (on paper) at what all stupid crap I shoved in my mouth because I was hurried between conference calls to grab a bite for lunch, or whatever. Again, whatever it takes to get closer to approval.
So that's my plan...........and it begins today. I will be able to enjoy Thanksgiving in moderation and then it's ON..........December 2nd, first fill.........details to follow...........
The anxiety that built up in the 24 hours prior to my appointment was off the charts. I got so worked up with the fear of puking every single bite or meal for another 3 years. I spent a good amount of time reminding myself that it had to be done, that it would be temporary, that it was a means to an end, etc. Nothing made me feel better!
I arrived to a standing room only waiting room of strange people. One lady who looked to be average (versus oversize) who was seated in a chair beside an empty chair. These chairs are super wide and cater to the clientele that would be typical of a weight loss surgery practice. As I approach the empty super size chair, she scoots over in hers as far away as she can get. I'm thinking to myself, "does she think I need my super size chair AND hers to sit down? Sheesh!" or "Does she think I smell? Like what the hell?"
But I sat quietly and remained well over arms length from her so I didn't get my St. Charles smelly ass near her!
My appointment was at noon. I arrived on time. I didn't get called back until close to 1 pm. It's like you have to take the day off anymore to go to the doctor........trying to do it over lunch is near impossible!
When the nurse took my blood pressure it was high....they took it a total of 3 times. Once it was like 97/110 and I forgot the other times (I've slept since then).
Dr. Scott eventually made his way to the exam room; and we discussed CIGNA's denial and what the next steps needed to be. Here's what he had to say:
#1....he wants to do my fill under a Fluoroscope machine (similar to an x ray machine). His reason is that he will have images he can SHOW CIGNA when trying to build my case for Gastric Bypass surgery, making it easier to prove that we're doing all the right things and the lap band is simply not working in my case. One word: DOCUMENTATION!!! I actually prefer this since it's his first time giving me a fill. I want to be sure he SEES where my port is and injects the saline in the right place. Unfortunately (unlike my surgeon in KS), he does not have one in his office. He uses the one in the hospital (his office is in a building beside Des Peres Hospital). Sooooo.....it had to be scheduled and couldn't be done at the time.
He only does them on Monday mornings, which doesn't leave many options for scheduling. Next Monday was out of the question as I'll have to take some time away from work on Tuesday for Fox's Autism screening appointment. So, I scheduled it for the following Monday, Dec. 2nd. It's embarrassing literally having to tell your boss that EVERY week you're going to be at this doctors or that doctors. And it seems like I can never just go several weeks without seeing a damned doctor!!!
#2....his goal is to try to prove the need for Bypass surgery and gain CIGNA's approval at the end of 3 months. This had me relieved because IF I do start puking all my meals again, I don't think I will make it long at all before I say "F this"! Hoping I can manage as long as it takes to get insurance approval.
#3....one of the other things CIGNA stated in the denial was that I needed to see a nutritionist and have a diet and exercise program and without that, I was "non compliant". Soooo......for every office visit I make to him, I will now also see the nutritionist. This is completely fine by me. And it usually only involves 10 more minutes.
#4....he did say that if I started vomiting my meals, it may involve additional testing of the ph levels and such in my esophagus (again building the case). When I think about it, it's kind of stupid, cos we're going to spend money (which insurance will end up being billed) to build the case.......whereas if they'd just approved the damned surgery to begin with, the tab would be lower over all. But what do I know? I mean, after all I don't have the PhD! Incidentally, the person at the insurance company denying the surgery IS a physician.
After my visit with Dr. Scott, I met with the nutritionist. She advised me that I need to be taking iron and calcium and mentioned that as a lap band patient, I could very well have nutritional deficiencies. No biggie, the hardest part for me is remembering to take them. I can't take them together, however, as the calcium can reduce the effectiveness of the iron.
She also decided that I should start with a simple walking system....stating that I need a pedometer and to keep a log of my daily steps. Ok, at this point I'll do whatever it takes to document all I can to get the damned approval! Now all I need is a pedometer!!!
I'm also going to be keeping a food journal (this ought to be way interesting). I do think this will be good as I'll be FORCED to look (on paper) at what all stupid crap I shoved in my mouth because I was hurried between conference calls to grab a bite for lunch, or whatever. Again, whatever it takes to get closer to approval.
So that's my plan...........and it begins today. I will be able to enjoy Thanksgiving in moderation and then it's ON..........December 2nd, first fill.........details to follow...........
Sunday, September 15, 2013
There is no EASY button!
I was talking to my good buddy, Henry Peer last night. He inquired about the status of my surgery. A little background on him: Henry is a former All American in College Football who literally treats his body as a temple, with the exception of drinking! He has always encouraged me in my weight loss endeavors but has NEVER judged me for being obese. So he's been following my story and offering to put me through his own little boot camp (which I'm certain would KILL me). He's always telling me "Reveille is at 4 am"!!! He runs daily, eats healthily and is as fit as a man can be.
Anyway.........after we hang up it occurs to me that I left everyone hanging. My last post indicated that I was denied by insurance (covering gastric bypass surgery) and would have my first lap band fill on 9-13-13 (a bad omen in and of itself).
So it seems I have to go back through the trauma of revisiting the lap-band in order to prove that it isn't working for me and I need gastric bypass. I'm scared at the thought of vomiting every meal for however long the doctor needs to make a point. But know this is my only savior (or at least I feel like it is); so I'm willing to go through the motions as a means to an end.
As luck would have it, I ended up having to schedule business travel on the 13th (my trip home from Chicago). So I had to cancel my "fill". I tried to reschedule; but they were booking into October. I have business travel EVERY week in October. The doctor's office was concerned about me getting in a plane and having adverse reactions to the adjustment/fill; so they advised me to wait until I knew I'd be home for a week or two (in case I needed to throw up). So, I rescheduled my first fill since 2009 for the day after my last partner event in October, which is the 29th. I literally go the next day, the 30th for my fill.
I will keep everyone updated on how that goes. Be prepared for the Good, Bad and the Ugly. Now here's hoping I survive the wicked travel schedule in October with no cardiac episodes! It's hard to schlep a heavy ass laptop and luggage as I race through airport after airport after airport at this weight. Not to mention the number it does on my back!!! But I do love my accumulating airline miles, hotel points and car rental benefits!!! Plus it's affording Kevin and I a weekend near Anaheim, CA over our anniversary weekend which is NICE!!!
Enjoy the rest of your Sunday. I'll post again after my appointment on the 30th when things will really start to get exciting!
Lori
Anyway.........after we hang up it occurs to me that I left everyone hanging. My last post indicated that I was denied by insurance (covering gastric bypass surgery) and would have my first lap band fill on 9-13-13 (a bad omen in and of itself).
So it seems I have to go back through the trauma of revisiting the lap-band in order to prove that it isn't working for me and I need gastric bypass. I'm scared at the thought of vomiting every meal for however long the doctor needs to make a point. But know this is my only savior (or at least I feel like it is); so I'm willing to go through the motions as a means to an end.
As luck would have it, I ended up having to schedule business travel on the 13th (my trip home from Chicago). So I had to cancel my "fill". I tried to reschedule; but they were booking into October. I have business travel EVERY week in October. The doctor's office was concerned about me getting in a plane and having adverse reactions to the adjustment/fill; so they advised me to wait until I knew I'd be home for a week or two (in case I needed to throw up). So, I rescheduled my first fill since 2009 for the day after my last partner event in October, which is the 29th. I literally go the next day, the 30th for my fill.
I will keep everyone updated on how that goes. Be prepared for the Good, Bad and the Ugly. Now here's hoping I survive the wicked travel schedule in October with no cardiac episodes! It's hard to schlep a heavy ass laptop and luggage as I race through airport after airport after airport at this weight. Not to mention the number it does on my back!!! But I do love my accumulating airline miles, hotel points and car rental benefits!!! Plus it's affording Kevin and I a weekend near Anaheim, CA over our anniversary weekend which is NICE!!!
Enjoy the rest of your Sunday. I'll post again after my appointment on the 30th when things will really start to get exciting!
Lori
Wednesday, August 21, 2013
Round 2- CIGNA 2, Lori 0
I was shocked to pick up the phone today to hear Jennifer's (the insurance coordinator at My New Self Bariatric) voice. She was cheerful. I was hoping this meant she had good news for me. She told me she got a call from the medical director at CIGNA. Then she dropped the bomb that once again he chose to deny my request for gastric bypass surgery on the grounds that I haven't been "fully compliant" with the medically supervised program. His concern was that I'd had my band drained in 2010 and that it's been dormant for 3 years before I requested the surgery.
Um........it took me through 2010 to gain all my weight back (and then some) to have the desire to try again. Then by 2011 I'd lost my job and spent all of 2012 uninsured. So forgive me Mister Medical Director for not moving according to your plan or expectation! <yes I'm pissed>
Trying to hold back tears, my first question to Jennifer was, "What now???"
She suggested I revisit the lap band with Dr. Scott, get adjustments and let him monitor my results and go from there. The thought of puking up every bite I take is so unappealing to me right now I can't even see straight. BUT I have to "play the game" in order for them to see that it didn't work for me. Apparently the slew of clinical pages from Dr. Malley's office in Kansas (3 yrs of history) wasn't enough.
Obviously I'm the only one who is going to be beat into submission here. I made an appointment for Friday, September 13th to have my first lap band adjustment since January 2010. This should be fun! I'm hoping we only have to try this for 3 months before we can resubmit for surgery.
I could be completely surprised and discover that with a totally different doctor, perhaps I can find success with the band. That would be the ideal outcome. Then I could lose weight and avoid the surgery altogether. Otherwise, I have no idea how long or how hard I'll have to fight to gain approval.
Until then, it's being more mindful of the quality and quantities of the food choices I make and giving the band one last try.
I'll continue to blog throughout that journey, as well.....documenting the foods and success/failures I have along the way.
For now I can go back to making plans as the surgery doesn't look to be happening in the next few months! So I'll continue to book accessible seating so I can enjoy a sporting event. I'll continue to get the extra seat on the airplane when I travel. I'll continue using seat belt extenders in the car and on planes.
And I'll start trying to move the mountain (150-200 lb weight loss goal) one stone (pound) at a time until I can get an assist.
If I can ever get surgery approved, I'd like to have it by year end. since I've met my deductible for 2013 and for a few other reasons, too.
I feel like the little engine that could. I think I can..........I think I can....................
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