November 03, 2004
Files From My Other Blog
For the first several entries, I will be posting copies of key bits from my other online journal (see My Homepage).
This is merely to update everyone on what has gone on and what I've been thinking/feeling up to this point. Here are a few excerpts from my first post, June 7, 2004:
Monday, June 7th, 2004
My name is Lj Stephens. I'm 35 years old and I weigh over 400 pounds. Recently, I made the decision to undergo a surgical procedure intended to help me lose my extra weight. I'm completely terrified. Nearly nine days ago, I had my first consultation with the surgeon. I didn't think I was nervous, but I got sick in the car on the way to my appointment. I was driving, by the way, it was not pretty. After the meeting, I was feeling better though, and now I'm very excited. I'm anxious to get it done and get started.
... I have come to this decision because it is time to do something drastic with my health before I become permanently damaged by my weight and unable to leave the house. I now have difficulty moving around on my own and I'm afraid I will become an invalid soon. The doctors estimate that I will lose 70-80% of my excess weight in 18-24 months. I will be on a regimen of vitamins, water and exercise. Before I can even be officially accepted as a patient, I have to see several specialists. I will have a psych evaluation, a sleep study, a pulmonary performance test, physical therapy, and see a nutritionist. Additionally, I will attend support group meetings, which I have already begun. Here is the url for Dr. Ronnie Keith, my surgeon, if you want more technical information:http://www.normanregional.com/body.cfm?id=222
... Please write to me if you wish. I welcome your views and opinions.
... The Tuesday after my consultation, I received a phone call from the nurse in Dr. Keith's office. They drew some blood when I was there, and, though I have never had this trouble before, I seem to have Iron Deficiency Anemia. Normally, anemia means surgery is very risky. However, they simply prescribed me some serious iron suppliments that I now take three times a day, and everything should be fine in a few weeks.
... I am still in the process of getting my appointments to see each specialist before I can be scheduled for my surgery. My Pulmonologist cannot see me until August. CRAP! Now, they did say that there are cancellations all the time and I might get in a bit sooner, but I'm still very discouraged. That means no surgery until September. I'm really upset. I'm going to call my doctor and see if he will let me see a different Pulmonologist. I can't wait until September.
Posted by Lj Stephens on November 3, 2004 11:39 PM