Guest guest Posted December 18, 2004 Report Share Posted December 18, 2004 hey anybody hear from chris or bee , i try to get through what mail i can but there is so much it is h ard but i havent heard from them in my email readings........................I am about to leave to go to south san francisco case managment meeting, i know i have to go but i dont want to go, i was always absent on oral report days in school and this sort of reminds me of that, i am very shy and the last time i was at a introduction there gitty i notice just calls on people and puts them in my feeling ' on the spot" like being back in school and the teacher calls on you, i loved everything else about her..........................oh well gott go so off i go...................i dont know if i will meet anyone in here, but if you are going and you were there i will be the one with blue jeans a red sweater and shoulder length light brown hair and if my husband sticks with me the man with the castboot on his foot. wahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh i dont want to drive ALL THE WAY THERE ughhhhhhhhhhhh Colleen wrote: This is very good info. Thank you Gem. Hey what did you think of thestaff (not the docs) at Richmond? Maybe I shouldn't be talking aboutthis on here as they probably peek in on us, eh? (shutting up now)On Sat, 18 Dec 2004 09:31:44 -0000, gemellodigiovanniwrote:> > :> > I had surgery through Richmond, but the meetings are inconvenient for > me due to work issues. So I attend the SSF meetings and have never > had a problem. I don't announce my presence, and they never check. > And Gity knows me know, and welcomes my input. (I started attending > the Tuesday, drop-in support group about two years ago as a pre-op).> > Gemello> > P.S. I can't remember who asked me about my photo, but I don't have > one in the photos section. I may post one there soon temporarily, > but I hesitate due to the possibility of some of my negative co-> workers peeping in on our group (11 of 22 full time employees are > morbidly obese).> > > > > > this is going out to the folks who have dealt with Kaiser Richmond > and> > SSF bariatrics unit. I am so confused.> > > > My mother went through WLS at SSF a year and a half ago. She is my> > main strength and support and goes to all meetings etc while I go> > through Richmond. She says it is like night and day. They told me > I> > will never be allowed to attend her support meetings, though my > mother> > said she has never seen anyone turned away from SSF. The support is> > very lacking. In my nutrition class someone said they had totally> > quit smoking after her orientation and my mother was aghast that no> > one clapped support for this woman and said that in SSF they are> > clapping for such things and much less every few minutes.> > > > She also said that the nutritionist was very noncommital about the> > chewing 30 times a bit (said "I know you won't do this every bite > but> > you should try to do it as much as you can"--this is pre op) and > also> > said about journaling "at least do one meal a day" what is the point> > of one meal a day. This really upset my mother because she has > worked> > hard to do these two things and feel it is such a huge part of her> > success in this program. She was worried folks may fail because > they> > don't have the right information. But chalked it up to differences > in> > different units. Shouldn't all the units be working together not> > against each other and with the same information.> > > > My mother speaks very highly of the docs at Richmond and their > skills> > so she is ok with me going there but hopes I can get support> > elsewhere. She is going to talk to Dr. Gity and see if I can attend> > the one meeting a month she does in Sacramento (that is where I > live)> > instead of support groups in Richmond.> > > > Any thoughts on this? I really need some feedback. Has anyone else> > heard anything like this?> > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 20, 2004 Report Share Posted December 20, 2004 Hi Colleen, Thanks for inquiring about me. I've been kind of silent and frustrated lately. I didn't make it to San Franciscon Saturday as I've been sick and couldn't bear that drive. I haven't heard anything from SSF since I saw Dr. Stiles way back in August and was told I had to do the sleep apnea stuff. I've had my machine for about six weeks now and I don't think it's helping me sleep any better. I've heard it takes a while to get used to. I thought they would be scheduling a follow up for me with Dr. Stiles to review my health stuff but I haven't heard anything. I don't know whether I should call or not. Believe it or not, I'm really down about the prospect of another holiday season without having had surgery. I was really hoping it would be done by now. I've been in the program almost a year. My health has improved some, but only because I've been on medication for everything. My cholesterol was down the last time I had blood tests and my blood pressure has really stabilized. The muscle enzyme imbalance is lots better but I still have lots of difficulty with walking and standing because of the arthritis in my knees. I can't decide if I even want to pursue this any further or not. Maybe it's just the winter blahs, although this is usually my favorite time of year. My daughter and I haven't even been motivated to decorate yet although we did get our cards out and our shopping is all finished. Colleen Garner wrote: hey anybody hear from chris or bee , i try to get through what mail i can but there is so much it is h ard but i havent heard from them in my email readings........................I am about to leave to go to south san francisco case managment meeting, i know i have to go but i dont want to go, i was always absent on oral report days in school and this sort of reminds me of that, i am very shy and the last time i was at a introduction there gitty i notice just calls on people and puts them in my feeling ' on the spot" like being back in school and the teacher calls on you, i loved everything else about her..........................oh well gott go so off i go...................i dont know if i will meet anyone in here, but if you are going and you were there i will be the one with blue jeans a red sweater and shoulder length light brown hair and if my husband sticks with me the man with the castboot on his foot. wahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh i dont want to drive ALL THE WAY THERE ughhhhhhhhhhhh Colleen wrote: This is very good info. Thank you Gem. Hey what did you think of thestaff (not the docs) at Richmond? Maybe I shouldn't be talking aboutthis on here as they probably peek in on us, eh? (shutting up now)On Sat, 18 Dec 2004 09:31:44 -0000, gemellodigiovanniwrote:> > :> > I had surgery through Richmond, but the meetings are inconvenient for > me due to work issues. So I attend the SSF meetings and have never > had a problem. I don't announce my presence, and they never check. > And Gity knows me know, and welcomes my input. (I started attending > the Tuesday, drop-in support group about two years ago as a pre-op).> > Gemello> > P.S. I can't remember who asked me about my photo, but I don't have > one in the photos section. I may post one there soon temporarily, > but I hesitate due to the possibility of some of my negative co-> workers peeping in on our group (11 of 22 full time employees are > morbidly obese).> > > > > > this is going out to the folks who have dealt with Kaiser Richmond > and> > SSF bariatrics unit. I am so confused.> > > > My mother went through WLS at SSF a year and a half ago. She is my> > main strength and support and goes to all meetings etc while I go> > through Richmond. She says it is like night and day. They told me > I> > will never be allowed to attend her support meetings, though my > mother> > said she has never seen anyone turned away from SSF. The support is> > very lacking. In my nutrition class someone said they had totally> > quit smoking after her orientation and my mother was aghast that no> > one clapped support for this woman and said that in SSF they are> > clapping for such things and much less every few minutes.> > > > She also said that the nutritionist was very noncommital about the> > chewing 30 times a bit (said "I know you won't do this every bite > but> > you should try to do it as much as you can"--this is pre op) and > also> > said about journaling "at least do one meal a day" what is the point> > of one meal a day. This really upset my mother because she has > worked> > hard to do these two things and feel it is such a huge part of her> > success in this program. She was worried folks may fail because > they> > don't have the right information. But chalked it up to differences > in> > different units. Shouldn't all the units be working together not> > against each other and with the same information.> > > > My mother speaks very highly of the docs at Richmond and their > skills> > so she is ok with me going there but hopes I can get support> > elsewhere. She is going to talk to Dr. Gity and see if I can attend> > the one meeting a month she does in Sacramento (that is where I > live)> > instead of support groups in Richmond.> > > > Any thoughts on this? I really need some feedback. Has anyone else> > heard anything like this?> > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 20, 2004 Report Share Posted December 20, 2004 Hi My name is Robynn and I am new to this whole thing. I got my letter, referring me to Richmond...but I don't have an orientation date yet. I did a sleep study before I submitted my information (before my doctor did, anyway) to the gastric bypass program. I also have sleep apnea: moderate when on my back, non-existent when on my sides. As a result, the overall rating was "mild". I've been wondering who they will deal with this during surgery. Did they want you to get the CPAP just for general health...or is it related to the surgery? Does using it get you into better condition for the surgery? I think mine has been getting a bit worse, lately...as I am needing to sleep longer and longer hours. So, I've been thinking I should get one of the CPAPs (I have a prescription, but I haven't filled it yet.) It sounds like you've had a lot of health problems, and I guess they want them stabilized a bit before you go under anesthesia? I imagine it's difficult to keep the momentum going, Chris...if you've been waiting for a long time. But, here's the thing: time passes either way. You know? I mean, if you give up now, you really have little hope of ever feeling much better than you do right at this moment. On the other hand, if you continue plugging along, sooner or later your health will get in order...and hopefully if you follow the diet in the meantime, you'll have yourself at a healthier weight (read: lower likelihood of morbidity during surgery) to have the surgery. I don't know if you believe in God, or if you have a higher power, but sometimes there are reasons that we hear, "Not yet." Remember, it's not a "no"...it's just a "wait a while". Maybe this time will give you a chance to get a better hold on your emotional issues that cause you to overeat...more time to start looking at alternative sources of self-nurturance...different ways to handle anger and frustration, etc... And maybe, this will give you a longer period of time to get used to regimenting your weight. And maybe, as I said before, the delay will give you the strength, both physically and emotionally, to become a success in this program. Don't give up, Chris. It will be worth it. From reading everybody's "after" stories...even the folks who had a hard time recovering said they would do it all again. And lots of people have had to overcome serious obstacles and hurdles due to insurance problems, etc... I think coming to this board for support is a good thing. I think that it will keep you thinking about this ultimate goal. It's easy to give up, I can imagine. I've given up on diets over and over again. I've given up on myself over and over again. But this time, just decide that YOU count. And realize that YOU are worth the time. You are worth the time it takes to go to appointments, to do what you need to do to get healthier...you are worth that effort. And, fingers crossed, neither one of us will have to go through another holiday season as a "before". Please keep the faith. You'll get there...and I bet it will be worth the trip. One year from today, you will either have given up...and you'll be in the same exact place you are today with your health and self-esteem (or even worse), or you'll be on the journey towards health. Where in the journey you will be, we don't know for sure. But, a year is a year is a year. Time passes no matter what. So, isn't it better to pass that year with hope, with a goal, with your eye on the prize? Because anything you do towards achieving that goal, whether it be to stabilize some of your health conditions, to lose weight to meet that 10% (and thensome, if necessary), to work on your emotional/psychological readiness....it will be time well-spent. And you'll be in a better place than you will be if you give up. THAT, I promise you. Chin up, Chris. You can do this. You can. Robynnchris lopez wrote: Hi Colleen, Thanks for inquiring about me. I've been kind of silent and frustrated lately. I didn't make it to San Franciscon Saturday as I've been sick and couldn't bear that drive. I haven't heard anything from SSF since I saw Dr. Stiles way back in August and was told I had to do the sleep apnea stuff. I've had my machine for about six weeks now and I don't think it's helping me sleep any better. I've heard it takes a while to get used to. I thought they would be scheduling a follow up for me with Dr. Stiles to review my health stuff but I haven't heard anything. I don't know whether I should call or not. Believe it or not, I'm really down about the prospect of another holiday season without having had surgery. I was really hoping it would be done by now. I've been in the program almost a year. My health has improved some, but only because I've been on medication for everything. My cholesterol was down the last time I had blood tests and my blood pressure has really stabilized. The muscle enzyme imbalance is lots better but I still have lots of difficulty with walking and standing because of the arthritis in my knees. I can't decide if I even want to pursue this any further or not. Maybe it's just the winter blahs, although this is usually my favorite time of year. My daughter and I haven't even been motivated to decorate yet although we did get our cards out and our shopping is all finished. Colleen Garner wrote: hey anybody hear from chris or bee , i try to get through what mail i can but there is so much it is h ard but i havent heard from them in my email readings........................I am about to leave to go to south san francisco case managment meeting, i know i have to go but i dont want to go, i was always absent on oral report days in school and this sort of reminds me of that, i am very shy and the last time i was at a introduction there gitty i notice just calls on people and puts them in my feeling ' on the spot" like being back in school and the teacher calls on you, i loved everything else about her..........................oh well gott go so off i go...................i dont know if i will meet anyone in here, but if you are going and you were there i will be the one with blue jeans a red sweater and shoulder length light brown hair and if my husband sticks with me the man with the castboot on his foot. wahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh i dont want to drive ALL THE WAY THERE ughhhhhhhhhhhh Colleen wrote: This is very good info. Thank you Gem. Hey what did you think of thestaff (not the docs) at Richmond? Maybe I shouldn't be talking aboutthis on here as they probably peek in on us, eh? (shutting up now)On Sat, 18 Dec 2004 09:31:44 -0000, gemellodigiovanniwrote:> > :> > I had surgery through Richmond, but the meetings are inconvenient for > me due to work issues. So I attend the SSF meetings and have never > had a problem. I don't announce my presence, and they never check. > And Gity knows me know, and welcomes my input. (I started attending > the Tuesday, drop-in support group about two years ago as a pre-op).> > Gemello> > P.S. I can't remember who asked me about my photo, but I don't have > one in the photos section. I may post one there soon temporarily, > but I hesitate due to the possibility of some of my negative co-> workers peeping in on our group (11 of 22 full time employees are > morbidly obese).> > > > > > this is going out to the folks who have dealt with Kaiser Richmond > and> > SSF bariatrics unit. I am so confused.> > > > My mother went through WLS at SSF a year and a half ago. She is my> > main strength and support and goes to all meetings etc while I go> > through Richmond. She says it is like night and day. They told me > I> > will never be allowed to attend her support meetings, though my > mother> > said she has never seen anyone turned away from SSF. The support is> > very lacking. In my nutrition class someone said they had totally> > quit smoking after her orientation and my mother was aghast that no> > one clapped support for this woman and said that in SSF they are> > clapping for such things and much less every few minutes.> > > > She also said that the nutritionist was very noncommital about the> > chewing 30 times a bit (said "I know you won't do this every bite > but> > you should try to do it as much as you can"--this is pre op) and > also> > said about journaling "at least do one meal a day" what is the point> > of one meal a day. This really upset my mother because she has > worked> > hard to do these two things and feel it is such a huge part of her> > success in this program. She was worried folks may fail because > they> > don't have the right information. But chalked it up to differences > in> > different units. Shouldn't all the units be working together not> > against each other and with the same information.> > > > My mother speaks very highly of the docs at Richmond and their > skills> > so she is ok with me going there but hopes I can get support> > elsewhere. She is going to talk to Dr. Gity and see if I can attend> > the one meeting a month she does in Sacramento (that is where I > live)> > instead of support groups in Richmond.> > > > Any thoughts on this? I really need some feedback. Has anyone else> > heard anything like this?> > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 20, 2004 Report Share Posted December 20, 2004 Hi Chris I know this waiting is sometimes so very frustrating. I can feel your frustration. I did the opposite of you, i did my decorating and just got to the cards. We did a family & pet portrait thing and i am short about 15 more pictures that i will have to print tonight, to complete my card list I had problems with my sleep apnea thing too, i never got the test back and medical records tells me that i can only get it from the clinic that did it, and then the dr says i have to get it from the clinic and the clinic says i have to get it from my pcp.....it is so strange i assume i dont have it because no one ever called me for additional testing.............but you know what they say when you assume, dont make an ass out of yourself I am sorry about the dumpy winter blah thing combined with everything else.................. I am glad you wrote back i was worried a little bit, and i also wanted to try to meet you if you were at the meeting on sat, maybe in Jan, take care and happy holidays Colleenchris lopez wrote: Hi Colleen, Thanks for inquiring about me. I've been kind of silent and frustrated lately. I didn't make it to San Franciscon Saturday as I've been sick and couldn't bear that drive. I haven't heard anything from SSF since I saw Dr. Stiles way back in August and was told I had to do the sleep apnea stuff. I've had my machine for about six weeks now and I don't think it's helping me sleep any better. I've heard it takes a while to get used to. I thought they would be scheduling a follow up for me with Dr. Stiles to review my health stuff but I haven't heard anything. I don't know whether I should call or not. Believe it or not, I'm really down about the prospect of another holiday season without having had surgery. I was really hoping it would be done by now. I've been in the program almost a year. My health has improved some, but only because I've been on medication for everything. My cholesterol was down the last time I had blood tests and my blood pressure has really stabilized. The muscle enzyme imbalance is lots better but I still have lots of difficulty with walking and standing because of the arthritis in my knees. I can't decide if I even want to pursue this any further or not. Maybe it's just the winter blahs, although this is usually my favorite time of year. My daughter and I haven't even been motivated to decorate yet although we did get our cards out and our shopping is all finished. Colleen Garner wrote: hey anybody hear from chris or bee , i try to get through what mail i can but there is so much it is h ard but i havent heard from them in my email readings........................I am about to leave to go to south san francisco case managment meeting, i know i have to go but i dont want to go, i was always absent on oral report days in school and this sort of reminds me of that, i am very shy and the last time i was at a introduction there gitty i notice just calls on people and puts them in my feeling ' on the spot" like being back in school and the teacher calls on you, i loved everything else about her..........................oh well gott go so off i go...................i dont know if i will meet anyone in here, but if you are going and you were there i will be the one with blue jeans a red sweater and shoulder length light brown hair and if my husband sticks with me the man with the castboot on his foot. wahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh i dont want to drive ALL THE WAY THERE ughhhhhhhhhhhh Colleen wrote: This is very good info. Thank you Gem. Hey what did you think of thestaff (not the docs) at Richmond? Maybe I shouldn't be talking aboutthis on here as they probably peek in on us, eh? (shutting up now)On Sat, 18 Dec 2004 09:31:44 -0000, gemellodigiovanniwrote:> > :> > I had surgery through Richmond, but the meetings are inconvenient for > me due to work issues. So I attend the SSF meetings and have never > had a problem. I don't announce my presence, and they never check. > And Gity knows me know, and welcomes my input. (I started attending > the Tuesday, drop-in support group about two years ago as a pre-op).> > Gemello> > P.S. I can't remember who asked me about my photo, but I don't have > one in the photos section. I may post one there soon temporarily, > but I hesitate due to the possibility of some of my negative co-> workers peeping in on our group (11 of 22 full time employees are > morbidly obese).> > > > > > this is going out to the folks who have dealt with Kaiser Richmond > and> > SSF bariatrics unit. I am so confused.> > > > My mother went through WLS at SSF a year and a half ago. She is my> > main strength and support and goes to all meetings etc while I go> > through Richmond. She says it is like night and day. They told me > I> > will never be allowed to attend her support meetings, though my > mother> > said she has never seen anyone turned away from SSF. The support is> > very lacking. In my nutrition class someone said they had totally> > quit smoking after her orientation and my mother was aghast that no> > one clapped support for this woman and said that in SSF they are> > clapping for such things and much less every few minutes.> > > > She also said that the nutritionist was very noncommital about the> > chewing 30 times a bit (said "I know you won't do this every bite > but> > you should try to do it as much as you can"--this is pre op) and > also> > said about journaling "at least do one meal a day" what is the point> > of one meal a day. This really upset my mother because she has > worked> > hard to do these two things and feel it is such a huge part of her> > success in this program. She was worried folks may fail because > they> > don't have the right information. But chalked it up to differences > in> > different units. Shouldn't all the units be working together not> > against each other and with the same information.> > > > My mother speaks very highly of the docs at Richmond and their > skills> > so she is ok with me going there but hopes I can get support> > elsewhere. She is going to talk to Dr. Gity and see if I can attend> > the one meeting a month she does in Sacramento (that is where I > live)> > instead of support groups in Richmond.> > > > Any thoughts on this? I really need some feedback. Has anyone else> > heard anything like this?> > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 20, 2004 Report Share Posted December 20, 2004 Hi Robyn, Thanks so much for your thoughtful and caring answer. It's been difficult dealing with all of this and frustrating because I was so on track and ready in August and now I feel like I've just let everything get away from me. I know that God often says wait and frankly, I'd rather he said no . So perhaps this is also a lesson in patience. I was doing really well and then had an unexpected out of town visitor the end of the summer and really let things get out of control as far as following the eating plan. It was a huge distraction and I got out of the habit of excercising as well. Not that I'm overeating or anything, I'm just not being as diligent as I was. I'm not doing water exercises in the pool (too darn cold) but I'm not going to the gym either. I didn't do too badly over Thanksgiving but where I was really focusing on protein and giving up on the sweets and carbs, I've slowly drifted back into bad habits. Before I felt like there was an obtainable goal because I was having frequent appointments and follow ups and it all seemed to be falling into place. Now that I've gotten through orientation, pysche evaluation, nutritionist and Dr. Stiles, it's like all right, I'm just out there hanging. I was so eager to go to each appointment and see the progress I was making and now it's like, all right, what's next? Dr. Stiles had said they'd follow up in two months but it's been four and no word from anyone. So it's incredibly frustrating because I feel like I've been just left out high and dry. As for sleep apnea and CPAP machines, I know that there are folks out there who say it's made a world of difference for them and been a life saver. Like you, mine was mild and frankly, I don't see much of a difference now that I have the machine except my dog won't sleep with me anymore. I'm not getting any more sleep since I started using the machine and I sure don't feel better. I do know that they want you to be as healthy as possible before surgery so that was reassuring and my blood pressure has gone back to normal (I really think it had nothing to do with my weight and more to do with some things that were going on in my life over the last year) and my cholesterol has dropped so that's good. Other then the muscle enzyme imbalance which causes inflammation and pain my only real health problem is just being too darn heavy. Anyway, I know in my heart of hearts that the Lord confirmed this was the right thing for me, but as in all things, wait is not something that sits well with me. I suppose if I had a goal to work towards or even a date to look forward to I would feel differently. The other thing that happened is the person who really encouraged me to do this and was really supportive has pretty much bailed on me. So, my support system has disappeared, my daughter is terrified of the whole process and I'm weary. I've just got to work on getting my motivation back and figuring that out is the hardest part. As for time passing without a goal, right now I don't feel like I have one. From January through August sure I had a goal. I got approved, got through orientation, all the tests and reviews and now what? There's really nothing on the horizon. That's what makes it so hard. I mean, if Dr. Stiles had said, you will be seeing me on this date and by then you have to do this, this and this, well then it would have made sense. As it is, I had the test, had the second part, had to redo it, passed (or failed depending on your point of view), got the machine, went to the class to learn how to use it and then......nothing for the last two months. I thought I'd never make it though a year when I first started this process last January and here I am having done everything I'm supposed to with nothing but machine I hate to show for it. All in all, I know God has a masterplan so I'm trying to keep that in focus. I've gotten involved in some support stuff at my church so maybe that's what's needed before I procced. One of the reasons I've not been vocal on the list is because I've just taken my focus off of WLS. For months it consumed my every waking thought and the less obtainable it seemed to become the more I focused on other stuff. I spend very little time focused on it anymore. It justs seems like one more thing that's not meant to be. Chris Robynn VanPatten wrote: Hi My name is Robynn and I am new to this whole thing. I got my letter, referring me to Richmond...but I don't have an orientation date yet. I did a sleep study before I submitted my information (before my doctor did, anyway) to the gastric bypass program. I also have sleep apnea: moderate when on my back, non-existent when on my sides. As a result, the overall rating was "mild". I've been wondering who they will deal with this during surgery. Did they want you to get the CPAP just for general health...or is it related to the surgery? Does using it get you into better condition for the surgery? I think mine has been getting a bit worse, lately...as I am needing to sleep longer and longer hours. So, I've been thinking I should get one of the CPAPs (I have a prescription, but I haven't filled it yet.) It sounds like you've had a lot of health problems, and I guess they want them stabilized a bit before you go under anesthesia? I imagine it's difficult to keep the momentum going, Chris...if you've been waiting for a long time. But, here's the thing: time passes either way. You know? I mean, if you give up now, you really have little hope of ever feeling much better than you do right at this moment. On the other hand, if you continue plugging along, sooner or later your health will get in order...and hopefully if you follow the diet in the meantime, you'll have yourself at a healthier weight (read: lower likelihood of morbidity during surgery) to have the surgery. I don't know if you believe in God, or if you have a higher power, but sometimes there are reasons that we hear, "Not yet." Remember, it's not a "no"...it's just a "wait a while". Maybe this time will give you a chance to get a better hold on your emotional issues that cause you to overeat...more time to start looking at alternative sources of self-nurturance...different ways to handle anger and frustration, etc... And maybe, this will give you a longer period of time to get used to regimenting your weight. And maybe, as I said before, the delay will give you the strength, both physically and emotionally, to become a success in this program. Don't give up, Chris. It will be worth it. From reading everybody's "after" stories...even the folks who had a hard time recovering said they would do it all again. And lots of people have had to overcome serious obstacles and hurdles due to insurance problems, etc... I think coming to this board for support is a good thing. I think that it will keep you thinking about this ultimate goal. It's easy to give up, I can imagine. I've given up on diets over and over again. I've given up on myself over and over again. But this time, just decide that YOU count. And realize that YOU are worth the time. You are worth the time it takes to go to appointments, to do what you need to do to get healthier...you are worth that effort. And, fingers crossed, neither one of us will have to go through another holiday season as a "before". Please keep the faith. You'll get there...and I bet it will be worth the trip. One year from today, you will either have given up...and you'll be in the same exact place you are today with your health and self-esteem (or even worse), or you'll be on the journey towards health. Where in the journey you will be, we don't know for sure. But, a year is a year is a year. Time passes no matter what. So, isn't it better to pass that year with hope, with a goal, with your eye on the prize? Because anything you do towards achieving that goal, whether it be to stabilize some of your health conditions, to lose weight to meet that 10% (and thensome, if necessary), to work on your emotional/psychological readiness....it will be time well-spent. And you'll be in a better place than you will be if you give up. THAT, I promise you. Chin up, Chris. You can do this. You can. Robynnchris lopez wrote: Hi Colleen, Thanks for inquiring about me. I've been kind of silent and frustrated lately. I didn't make it to San Franciscon Saturday as I've been sick and couldn't bear that drive. I haven't heard anything from SSF since I saw Dr. Stiles way back in August and was told I had to do the sleep apnea stuff. I've had my machine for about six weeks now and I don't think it's helping me sleep any better. I've heard it takes a while to get used to. I thought they would be scheduling a follow up for me with Dr. Stiles to review my health stuff but I haven't heard anything. I don't know whether I should call or not. Believe it or not, I'm really down about the prospect of another holiday season without having had surgery. I was really hoping it would be done by now. I've been in the program almost a year. My health has improved some, but only because I've been on medication for everything. My cholesterol was down the last time I had blood tests and my blood pressure has really stabilized. The muscle enzyme imbalance is lots better but I still have lots of difficulty with walking and standing because of the arthritis in my knees. I can't decide if I even want to pursue this any further or not. Maybe it's just the winter blahs, although this is usually my favorite time of year. My daughter and I haven't even been motivated to decorate yet although we did get our cards out and our shopping is all finished. Colleen Garner wrote: hey anybody hear from chris or bee , i try to get through what mail i can but there is so much it is h ard but i havent heard from them in my email readings........................I am about to leave to go to south san francisco case managment meeting, i know i have to go but i dont want to go, i was always absent on oral report days in school and this sort of reminds me of that, i am very shy and the last time i was at a introduction there gitty i notice just calls on people and puts them in my feeling ' on the spot" like being back in school and the teacher calls on you, i loved everything else about her..........................oh well gott go so off i go...................i dont know if i will meet anyone in here, but if you are going and you were there i will be the one with blue jeans a red sweater and shoulder length light brown hair and if my husband sticks with me the man with the castboot on his foot. wahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh i dont want to drive ALL THE WAY THERE ughhhhhhhhhhhh Colleen wrote: This is very good info. Thank you Gem. Hey what did you think of thestaff (not the docs) at Richmond? Maybe I shouldn't be talking aboutthis on here as they probably peek in on us, eh? (shutting up now)On Sat, 18 Dec 2004 09:31:44 -0000, gemellodigiovanniwrote:> > :> > I had surgery through Richmond, but the meetings are inconvenient for > me due to work issues. So I attend the SSF meetings and have never > had a problem. I don't announce my presence, and they never check. > And Gity knows me know, and welcomes my input. (I started attending > the Tuesday, drop-in support group about two years ago as a pre-op).> > Gemello> > P.S. I can't remember who asked me about my photo, but I don't have > one in the photos section. I may post one there soon temporarily, > but I hesitate due to the possibility of some of my negative co-> workers peeping in on our group (11 of 22 full time employees are > morbidly obese).> > > > > > this is going out to the folks who have dealt with Kaiser Richmond > and> > SSF bariatrics unit. I am so confused.> > > > My mother went through WLS at SSF a year and a half ago. She is my> > main strength and support and goes to all meetings etc while I go> > through Richmond. She says it is like night and day. They told me > I> > will never be allowed to attend her support meetings, though my > mother> > said she has never seen anyone turned away from SSF. The support is> > very lacking. In my nutrition class someone said they had totally> > quit smoking after her orientation and my mother was aghast that no> > one clapped support for this woman and said that in SSF they are> > clapping for such things and much less every few minutes.> > > > She also said that the nutritionist was very noncommital about the> > chewing 30 times a bit (said "I know you won't do this every bite > but> > you should try to do it as much as you can"--this is pre op) and > also> > said about journaling "at least do one meal a day" what is the point> > of one meal a day. This really upset my mother because she has > worked> > hard to do these two things and feel it is such a huge part of her> > success in this program. She was worried folks may fail because > they> > don't have the right information. But chalked it up to differences > in> > different units. Shouldn't all the units be working together not> > against each other and with the same information.> > > > My mother speaks very highly of the docs at Richmond and their > skills> > so she is ok with me going there but hopes I can get support> > elsewhere. She is going to talk to Dr. Gity and see if I can attend> > the one meeting a month she does in Sacramento (that is where I > live)> > instead of support groups in Richmond.> > > > Any thoughts on this? I really need some feedback. Has anyone else> > heard anything like this?> > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 20, 2004 Report Share Posted December 20, 2004 Hi Colleen, I did my sleep apnea test at home not at a clinic--I guess different Kaisers do it differently. I would think that your doctor could request the results. It seems to me that they're not to up on the process. I had to request a humidifier to go with my machine and the doctor's office was wonderful but they thought I was supposed to pick up the prescription and take it to the supply place. I called Apria to confirm that and they said no, the doctor's office has to fax it to us. I called them back and they were surprised but very compliant. From request of the humidifier to receiving it at my house was like a week! Now if I could just remember to buy distilled water to use in the darn thing. Thank you for worrying about me. It's nice to be missed . I've been just lurking and reading a few posts hear and there. I'm so happy for everyone and there successes but it's discouraging when I seem to have come to a skidding halt. WLS and the board used to be my priority but the last four months have been so discouraging, I hardly spend anytime thinking about it anymore. I'll probably be at the meeting in January but I've all but given up on this whole process. We'll have to try to meet in January. Meanwhile, have a wonderful and blessed holiday season. ChrisColleen Garner wrote: Hi Chris I know this waiting is sometimes so very frustrating. I can feel your frustration. I did the opposite of you, i did my decorating and just got to the cards. We did a family & pet portrait thing and i am short about 15 more pictures that i will have to print tonight, to complete my card list I had problems with my sleep apnea thing too, i never got the test back and medical records tells me that i can only get it from the clinic that did it, and then the dr says i have to get it from the clinic and the clinic says i have to get it from my pcp.....it is so strange i assume i dont have it because no one ever called me for additional testing.............but you know what they say when you assume, dont make an ass out of yourself I am sorry about the dumpy winter blah thing combined with everything else.................. I am glad you wrote back i was worried a little bit, and i also wanted to try to meet you if you were at the meeting on sat, maybe in Jan, take care and happy holidays Colleenchris lopez wrote: Hi Colleen, Thanks for inquiring about me. I've been kind of silent and frustrated lately. I didn't make it to San Franciscon Saturday as I've been sick and couldn't bear that drive. I haven't heard anything from SSF since I saw Dr. Stiles way back in August and was told I had to do the sleep apnea stuff. I've had my machine for about six weeks now and I don't think it's helping me sleep any better. I've heard it takes a while to get used to. I thought they would be scheduling a follow up for me with Dr. Stiles to review my health stuff but I haven't heard anything. I don't know whether I should call or not. Believe it or not, I'm really down about the prospect of another holiday season without having had surgery. I was really hoping it would be done by now. I've been in the program almost a year. My health has improved some, but only because I've been on medication for everything. My cholesterol was down the last time I had blood tests and my blood pressure has really stabilized. The muscle enzyme imbalance is lots better but I still have lots of difficulty with walking and standing because of the arthritis in my knees. I can't decide if I even want to pursue this any further or not. Maybe it's just the winter blahs, although this is usually my favorite time of year. My daughter and I haven't even been motivated to decorate yet although we did get our cards out and our shopping is all finished. Colleen Garner wrote: hey anybody hear from chris or bee , i try to get through what mail i can but there is so much it is h ard but i havent heard from them in my email readings........................I am about to leave to go to south san francisco case managment meeting, i know i have to go but i dont want to go, i was always absent on oral report days in school and this sort of reminds me of that, i am very shy and the last time i was at a introduction there gitty i notice just calls on people and puts them in my feeling ' on the spot" like being back in school and the teacher calls on you, i loved everything else about her..........................oh well gott go so off i go...................i dont know if i will meet anyone in here, but if you are going and you were there i will be the one with blue jeans a red sweater and shoulder length light brown hair and if my husband sticks with me the man with the castboot on his foot. wahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh i dont want to drive ALL THE WAY THERE ughhhhhhhhhhhh Colleen wrote: This is very good info. Thank you Gem. Hey what did you think of thestaff (not the docs) at Richmond? Maybe I shouldn't be talking aboutthis on here as they probably peek in on us, eh? (shutting up now)On Sat, 18 Dec 2004 09:31:44 -0000, gemellodigiovanniwrote:> > :> > I had surgery through Richmond, but the meetings are inconvenient for > me due to work issues. So I attend the SSF meetings and have never > had a problem. I don't announce my presence, and they never check. > And Gity knows me know, and welcomes my input. (I started attending > the Tuesday, drop-in support group about two years ago as a pre-op).> > Gemello> > P.S. I can't remember who asked me about my photo, but I don't have > one in the photos section. I may post one there soon temporarily, > but I hesitate due to the possibility of some of my negative co-> workers peeping in on our group (11 of 22 full time employees are > morbidly obese).> > > > > > this is going out to the folks who have dealt with Kaiser Richmond > and> > SSF bariatrics unit. I am so confused.> > > > My mother went through WLS at SSF a year and a half ago. She is my> > main strength and support and goes to all meetings etc while I go> > through Richmond. She says it is like night and day. They told me > I> > will never be allowed to attend her support meetings, though my > mother> > said she has never seen anyone turned away from SSF. The support is> > very lacking. In my nutrition class someone said they had totally> > quit smoking after her orientation and my mother was aghast that no> > one clapped support for this woman and said that in SSF they are> > clapping for such things and much less every few minutes.> > > > She also said that the nutritionist was very noncommital about the> > chewing 30 times a bit (said "I know you won't do this every bite > but> > you should try to do it as much as you can"--this is pre op) and > also> > said about journaling "at least do one meal a day" what is the point> > of one meal a day. This really upset my mother because she has > worked> > hard to do these two things and feel it is such a huge part of her> > success in this program. She was worried folks may fail because > they> > don't have the right information. But chalked it up to differences > in> > different units. Shouldn't all the units be working together not> > against each other and with the same information.> > > > My mother speaks very highly of the docs at Richmond and their > skills> > so she is ok with me going there but hopes I can get support> > elsewhere. She is going to talk to Dr. Gity and see if I can attend> > the one meeting a month she does in Sacramento (that is where I > live)> > instead of support groups in Richmond.> > > > Any thoughts on this? I really need some feedback. Has anyone else> > heard anything like this?> > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 20, 2004 Report Share Posted December 20, 2004 Chris: So do you know what the hold up is? I'm an attorney for Kaiser, and I've got to tell you, the squeaky wheel gets the grease. No one wants to admit that...but it is the reality. There are so many members and the doctors get busy and things get lost in transit blah blah blah. You need to call, call, harass, call, talk to Member Services... If it is that your medical record is not complete yet...the sleep apnea study isn't in the record...or the record hasn't yet been transferred to them...go to the Members Services desk, request a copy of your medical record, complete medical record (you are entitled to access to your medical records under law) and take them to the place they need to go. Drop them off directly with Dr. Stiles, if you must. That will show people that you are willing and eager and able to do WHATEVER it takes. Plus, you'll make sure it gets done. Be proactive, Chris. This is YOUR life and YOUR body and YOUR health. Be a pest. You are worth it.chris lopez wrote: Hi Robyn, Thanks so much for your thoughtful and caring answer. It's been difficult dealing with all of this and frustrating because I was so on track and ready in August and now I feel like I've just let everything get away from me. I know that God often says wait and frankly, I'd rather he said no . So perhaps this is also a lesson in patience. I was doing really well and then had an unexpected out of town visitor the end of the summer and really let things get out of control as far as following the eating plan. It was a huge distraction and I got out of the habit of excercising as well. Not that I'm overeating or anything, I'm just not being as diligent as I was. I'm not doing water exercises in the pool (too darn cold) but I'm not going to the gym either. I didn't do too badly over Thanksgiving but where I was really focusing on protein and giving up on the sweets and carbs, I've slowly drifted back into bad habits. Before I felt like there was an obtainable goal because I was having frequent appointments and follow ups and it all seemed to be falling into place. Now that I've gotten through orientation, pysche evaluation, nutritionist and Dr. Stiles, it's like all right, I'm just out there hanging. I was so eager to go to each appointment and see the progress I was making and now it's like, all right, what's next? Dr. Stiles had said they'd follow up in two months but it's been four and no word from anyone. So it's incredibly frustrating because I feel like I've been just left out high and dry. As for sleep apnea and CPAP machines, I know that there are folks out there who say it's made a world of difference for them and been a life saver. Like you, mine was mild and frankly, I don't see much of a difference now that I have the machine except my dog won't sleep with me anymore. I'm not getting any more sleep since I started using the machine and I sure don't feel better. I do know that they want you to be as healthy as possible before surgery so that was reassuring and my blood pressure has gone back to normal (I really think it had nothing to do with my weight and more to do with some things that were going on in my life over the last year) and my cholesterol has dropped so that's good. Other then the muscle enzyme imbalance which causes inflammation and pain my only real health problem is just being too darn heavy. Anyway, I know in my heart of hearts that the Lord confirmed this was the right thing for me, but as in all things, wait is not something that sits well with me. I suppose if I had a goal to work towards or even a date to look forward to I would feel differently. The other thing that happened is the person who really encouraged me to do this and was really supportive has pretty much bailed on me. So, my support system has disappeared, my daughter is terrified of the whole process and I'm weary. I've just got to work on getting my motivation back and figuring that out is the hardest part. As for time passing without a goal, right now I don't feel like I have one. From January through August sure I had a goal. I got approved, got through orientation, all the tests and reviews and now what? There's really nothing on the horizon. That's what makes it so hard. I mean, if Dr. Stiles had said, you will be seeing me on this date and by then you have to do this, this and this, well then it would have made sense. As it is, I had the test, had the second part, had to redo it, passed (or failed depending on your point of view), got the machine, went to the class to learn how to use it and then......nothing for the last two months. I thought I'd never make it though a year when I first started this process last January and here I am having done everything I'm supposed to with nothing but machine I hate to show for it. All in all, I know God has a masterplan so I'm trying to keep that in focus. I've gotten involved in some support stuff at my church so maybe that's what's needed before I procced. One of the reasons I've not been vocal on the list is because I've just taken my focus off of WLS. For months it consumed my every waking thought and the less obtainable it seemed to become the more I focused on other stuff. I spend very little time focused on it anymore. It justs seems like one more thing that's not meant to be. Chris Robynn VanPatten wrote: Hi My name is Robynn and I am new to this whole thing. I got my letter, referring me to Richmond...but I don't have an orientation date yet. I did a sleep study before I submitted my information (before my doctor did, anyway) to the gastric bypass program. I also have sleep apnea: moderate when on my back, non-existent when on my sides. As a result, the overall rating was "mild". I've been wondering who they will deal with this during surgery. Did they want you to get the CPAP just for general health...or is it related to the surgery? Does using it get you into better condition for the surgery? I think mine has been getting a bit worse, lately...as I am needing to sleep longer and longer hours. So, I've been thinking I should get one of the CPAPs (I have a prescription, but I haven't filled it yet.) It sounds like you've had a lot of health problems, and I guess they want them stabilized a bit before you go under anesthesia? I imagine it's difficult to keep the momentum going, Chris...if you've been waiting for a long time. But, here's the thing: time passes either way. You know? I mean, if you give up now, you really have little hope of ever feeling much better than you do right at this moment. On the other hand, if you continue plugging along, sooner or later your health will get in order...and hopefully if you follow the diet in the meantime, you'll have yourself at a healthier weight (read: lower likelihood of morbidity during surgery) to have the surgery. I don't know if you believe in God, or if you have a higher power, but sometimes there are reasons that we hear, "Not yet." Remember, it's not a "no"...it's just a "wait a while". Maybe this time will give you a chance to get a better hold on your emotional issues that cause you to overeat...more time to start looking at alternative sources of self-nurturance...different ways to handle anger and frustration, etc... And maybe, this will give you a longer period of time to get used to regimenting your weight. And maybe, as I said before, the delay will give you the strength, both physically and emotionally, to become a success in this program. Don't give up, Chris. It will be worth it. From reading everybody's "after" stories...even the folks who had a hard time recovering said they would do it all again. And lots of people have had to overcome serious obstacles and hurdles due to insurance problems, etc... I think coming to this board for support is a good thing. I think that it will keep you thinking about this ultimate goal. It's easy to give up, I can imagine. I've given up on diets over and over again. I've given up on myself over and over again. But this time, just decide that YOU count. And realize that YOU are worth the time. You are worth the time it takes to go to appointments, to do what you need to do to get healthier...you are worth that effort. And, fingers crossed, neither one of us will have to go through another holiday season as a "before". Please keep the faith. You'll get there...and I bet it will be worth the trip. One year from today, you will either have given up...and you'll be in the same exact place you are today with your health and self-esteem (or even worse), or you'll be on the journey towards health. Where in the journey you will be, we don't know for sure. But, a year is a year is a year. Time passes no matter what. So, isn't it better to pass that year with hope, with a goal, with your eye on the prize? Because anything you do towards achieving that goal, whether it be to stabilize some of your health conditions, to lose weight to meet that 10% (and thensome, if necessary), to work on your emotional/psychological readiness....it will be time well-spent. And you'll be in a better place than you will be if you give up. THAT, I promise you. Chin up, Chris. You can do this. You can. Robynnchris lopez wrote: Hi Colleen, Thanks for inquiring about me. I've been kind of silent and frustrated lately. I didn't make it to San Franciscon Saturday as I've been sick and couldn't bear that drive. I haven't heard anything from SSF since I saw Dr. Stiles way back in August and was told I had to do the sleep apnea stuff. I've had my machine for about six weeks now and I don't think it's helping me sleep any better. I've heard it takes a while to get used to. I thought they would be scheduling a follow up for me with Dr. Stiles to review my health stuff but I haven't heard anything. I don't know whether I should call or not. Believe it or not, I'm really down about the prospect of another holiday season without having had surgery. I was really hoping it would be done by now. I've been in the program almost a year. My health has improved some, but only because I've been on medication for everything. My cholesterol was down the last time I had blood tests and my blood pressure has really stabilized. The muscle enzyme imbalance is lots better but I still have lots of difficulty with walking and standing because of the arthritis in my knees. I can't decide if I even want to pursue this any further or not. Maybe it's just the winter blahs, although this is usually my favorite time of year. My daughter and I haven't even been motivated to decorate yet although we did get our cards out and our shopping is all finished. Colleen Garner wrote: hey anybody hear from chris or bee , i try to get through what mail i can but there is so much it is h ard but i havent heard from them in my email readings........................I am about to leave to go to south san francisco case managment meeting, i know i have to go but i dont want to go, i was always absent on oral report days in school and this sort of reminds me of that, i am very shy and the last time i was at a introduction there gitty i notice just calls on people and puts them in my feeling ' on the spot" like being back in school and the teacher calls on you, i loved everything else about her..........................oh well gott go so off i go...................i dont know if i will meet anyone in here, but if you are going and you were there i will be the one with blue jeans a red sweater and shoulder length light brown hair and if my husband sticks with me the man with the castboot on his foot. wahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh i dont want to drive ALL THE WAY THERE ughhhhhhhhhhhh Colleen wrote: This is very good info. Thank you Gem. Hey what did you think of thestaff (not the docs) at Richmond? Maybe I shouldn't be talking aboutthis on here as they probably peek in on us, eh? (shutting up now)On Sat, 18 Dec 2004 09:31:44 -0000, gemellodigiovanniwrote:> > :> > I had surgery through Richmond, but the meetings are inconvenient for > me due to work issues. So I attend the SSF meetings and have never > had a problem. I don't announce my presence, and they never check. > And Gity knows me know, and welcomes my input. (I started attending > the Tuesday, drop-in support group about two years ago as a pre-op).> > Gemello> > P.S. I can't remember who asked me about my photo, but I don't have > one in the photos section. I may post one there soon temporarily, > but I hesitate due to the possibility of some of my negative co-> workers peeping in on our group (11 of 22 full time employees are > morbidly obese).> > > > > > this is going out to the folks who have dealt with Kaiser Richmond > and> > SSF bariatrics unit. I am so confused.> > > > My mother went through WLS at SSF a year and a half ago. She is my> > main strength and support and goes to all meetings etc while I go> > through Richmond. She says it is like night and day. They told me > I> > will never be allowed to attend her support meetings, though my > mother> > said she has never seen anyone turned away from SSF. The support is> > very lacking. In my nutrition class someone said they had totally> > quit smoking after her orientation and my mother was aghast that no> > one clapped support for this woman and said that in SSF they are> > clapping for such things and much less every few minutes.> > > > She also said that the nutritionist was very noncommital about the> > chewing 30 times a bit (said "I know you won't do this every bite > but> > you should try to do it as much as you can"--this is pre op) and > also> > said about journaling "at least do one meal a day" what is the point> > of one meal a day. This really upset my mother because she has > worked> > hard to do these two things and feel it is such a huge part of her> > success in this program. She was worried folks may fail because > they> > don't have the right information. But chalked it up to differences > in> > different units. Shouldn't all the units be working together not> > against each other and with the same information.> > > > My mother speaks very highly of the docs at Richmond and their > skills> > so she is ok with me going there but hopes I can get support> > elsewhere. She is going to talk to Dr. Gity and see if I can attend> > the one meeting a month she does in Sacramento (that is where I > live)> > instead of support groups in Richmond.> > > > Any thoughts on this? I really need some feedback. Has anyone else> > heard anything like this?> > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 20, 2004 Report Share Posted December 20, 2004 Chris you have a great holiday too, and your daughter as well, i have to share my stepson with his mom, wahhhhhhhhhhhhhh, i mean he lives with us, but i feel like he mine, she is going to get him on thursday and bring him back late christmas morning and stay for dinner with my family. I try to include her for Kurtis, she says she is going to stay but she never has before, but i want Kurtis to know and to remember I always invited her my stepson went to a christmas party of a family friend and one of her grandaughters had weight loss surgery about a year and a half ago and he said he could not believe how thin she is, sweet as Kurt could be he goes "Colleen she was way larger than you" then he said i cant imagine you thin like her" but he was very excited about it and felt comfortable with it because he did ask me a few weeks ago if i could die in the surgery...........so seeing her was good for him and me................................i had to work 5 hours overtime today but now i am off till monday , thank god, gotta stick with the food thing though and not go off the deep end........... but we all have to do that. takecare and god bless you and your family too colleenchris lopez wrote: Hi Colleen, I did my sleep apnea test at home not at a clinic--I guess different Kaisers do it differently. I would think that your doctor could request the results. It seems to me that they're not to up on the process. I had to request a humidifier to go with my machine and the doctor's office was wonderful but they thought I was supposed to pick up the prescription and take it to the supply place. I called Apria to confirm that and they said no, the doctor's office has to fax it to us. I called them back and they were surprised but very compliant. From request of the humidifier to receiving it at my house was like a week! Now if I could just remember to buy distilled water to use in the darn thing. Thank you for worrying about me. It's nice to be missed . I've been just lurking and reading a few posts hear and there. I'm so happy for everyone and there successes but it's discouraging when I seem to have come to a skidding halt. WLS and the board used to be my priority but the last four months have been so discouraging, I hardly spend anytime thinking about it anymore. I'll probably be at the meeting in January but I've all but given up on this whole process. We'll have to try to meet in January. Meanwhile, have a wonderful and blessed holiday season. ChrisColleen Garner wrote: Hi Chris I know this waiting is sometimes so very frustrating. I can feel your frustration. I did the opposite of you, i did my decorating and just got to the cards. We did a family & pet portrait thing and i am short about 15 more pictures that i will have to print tonight, to complete my card list I had problems with my sleep apnea thing too, i never got the test back and medical records tells me that i can only get it from the clinic that did it, and then the dr says i have to get it from the clinic and the clinic says i have to get it from my pcp.....it is so strange i assume i dont have it because no one ever called me for additional testing.............but you know what they say when you assume, dont make an ass out of yourself I am sorry about the dumpy winter blah thing combined with everything else.................. I am glad you wrote back i was worried a little bit, and i also wanted to try to meet you if you were at the meeting on sat, maybe in Jan, take care and happy holidays Colleenchris lopez wrote: Hi Colleen, Thanks for inquiring about me. I've been kind of silent and frustrated lately. I didn't make it to San Franciscon Saturday as I've been sick and couldn't bear that drive. I haven't heard anything from SSF since I saw Dr. Stiles way back in August and was told I had to do the sleep apnea stuff. I've had my machine for about six weeks now and I don't think it's helping me sleep any better. I've heard it takes a while to get used to. I thought they would be scheduling a follow up for me with Dr. Stiles to review my health stuff but I haven't heard anything. I don't know whether I should call or not. Believe it or not, I'm really down about the prospect of another holiday season without having had surgery. I was really hoping it would be done by now. I've been in the program almost a year. My health has improved some, but only because I've been on medication for everything. My cholesterol was down the last time I had blood tests and my blood pressure has really stabilized. The muscle enzyme imbalance is lots better but I still have lots of difficulty with walking and standing because of the arthritis in my knees. I can't decide if I even want to pursue this any further or not. Maybe it's just the winter blahs, although this is usually my favorite time of year. My daughter and I haven't even been motivated to decorate yet although we did get our cards out and our shopping is all finished. Colleen Garner wrote: hey anybody hear from chris or bee , i try to get through what mail i can but there is so much it is h ard but i havent heard from them in my email readings........................I am about to leave to go to south san francisco case managment meeting, i know i have to go but i dont want to go, i was always absent on oral report days in school and this sort of reminds me of that, i am very shy and the last time i was at a introduction there gitty i notice just calls on people and puts them in my feeling ' on the spot" like being back in school and the teacher calls on you, i loved everything else about her..........................oh well gott go so off i go...................i dont know if i will meet anyone in here, but if you are going and you were there i will be the one with blue jeans a red sweater and shoulder length light brown hair and if my husband sticks with me the man with the castboot on his foot. wahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh i dont want to drive ALL THE WAY THERE ughhhhhhhhhhhh Colleen wrote: This is very good info. Thank you Gem. Hey what did you think of thestaff (not the docs) at Richmond? Maybe I shouldn't be talking aboutthis on here as they probably peek in on us, eh? (shutting up now)On Sat, 18 Dec 2004 09:31:44 -0000, gemellodigiovanniwrote:> > :> > I had surgery through Richmond, but the meetings are inconvenient for > me due to work issues. So I attend the SSF meetings and have never > had a problem. I don't announce my presence, and they never check. > And Gity knows me know, and welcomes my input. (I started attending > the Tuesday, drop-in support group about two years ago as a pre-op).> > Gemello> > P.S. I can't remember who asked me about my photo, but I don't have > one in the photos section. I may post one there soon temporarily, > but I hesitate due to the possibility of some of my negative co-> workers peeping in on our group (11 of 22 full time employees are > morbidly obese).> > > > > > this is going out to the folks who have dealt with Kaiser Richmond > and> > SSF bariatrics unit. I am so confused.> > > > My mother went through WLS at SSF a year and a half ago. She is my> > main strength and support and goes to all meetings etc while I go> > through Richmond. She says it is like night and day. They told me > I> > will never be allowed to attend her support meetings, though my > mother> > said she has never seen anyone turned away from SSF. The support is> > very lacking. In my nutrition class someone said they had totally> > quit smoking after her orientation and my mother was aghast that no> > one clapped support for this woman and said that in SSF they are> > clapping for such things and much less every few minutes.> > > > She also said that the nutritionist was very noncommital about the> > chewing 30 times a bit (said "I know you won't do this every bite > but> > you should try to do it as much as you can"--this is pre op) and > also> > said about journaling "at least do one meal a day" what is the point> > of one meal a day. This really upset my mother because she has > worked> > hard to do these two things and feel it is such a huge part of her> > success in this program. She was worried folks may fail because > they> > don't have the right information. But chalked it up to differences > in> > different units. Shouldn't all the units be working together not> > against each other and with the same information.> > > > My mother speaks very highly of the docs at Richmond and their > skills> > so she is ok with me going there but hopes I can get support> > elsewhere. She is going to talk to Dr. Gity and see if I can attend> > the one meeting a month she does in Sacramento (that is where I > live)> > instead of support groups in Richmond.> > > > Any thoughts on this? I really need some feedback. Has anyone else> > heard anything like this?> > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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