Well I was searching through my laptop looking to clean up things I don't use or don't care about anymore. Low and behold I ran across my blog. Yikes I didn't realize it had been so long since I had posted. So, sorry about that.
Well whats happened this past year? Still am not (legally) divorced. Had 2 breakups. 1 with Rich back about the time I stopped posting That ended physically and abusively. But that is all over not thank god!!! I met another guy but things didnt work out. So I am kinda on my own right now. Looking for another EMS job. Hoping to find one soon. I'm prepared to move wherever I need now. This no job thing sucks. It's just me and Erica so I suppose things could be worse or harder if I was married and had a family. But it's just us so not too bad.
This past summer/ early fall. I had a friend of mine pass away from pancreatic cancer and it spread to her liver as well. I had the blessing to be able to literally have her head in my hands when she took her last breath. God blessed me by being able to be there for my friend and her family/friends in their time of need. So that feels pretty good.
Thats all for now. Hopefully I'll not forget about this blog. I'll bookmark it to remember. Have a good Holiday season if I dont talk to you.
Just a journal of things that go on inside my head.
Friday, November 4, 2011
Friday, February 4, 2011
TWINS!!!
This is a post I wrote on BE that weight loss website I am on I talked about before. I am just copying and pasting from a thread I started.
Well Hello my fellow followers. Feb 2nd I had a BL/ no implants. Things went well. I woke up in some pain but able to go back to sleep. After about 20 hrs of the pain not being able to be controlled in the left breast they switched me over to Dilauded from Morphine. Worked SO much better. The pain was gone in 5-10 minutes after the shot. The only problem was it made my breathing very slow and my O2 sats drop. They did not like that much. I also fainted a few times due to low o2 levels and low heart rate. But as soon as they stopped the dilauded and I just went to percocet things improved quite a bit.
I have minimal pain in my breasts right one just feels like I got punched in it a few days ago (just sore). Left one hurts a bit more but not bad for now. I am keeping up with pain meds, fluids, walking around and have come colace and some other "poopin meds" headed in so I am hoping NOT to get constipated any more than I am now.
My tummy is swollen, I think from the fluids and recent TT. But all in all I feel good. The boobies are a bit higher than I want them but I know they will settle down soon. I also am "prepped" for implants as well thus the higher boobies.
I am surprised about how good I feel. Just need to stay on top of the pain and all will be good. No drains (Thank Goodness) and just a lollipop incision. I have ice on the area now. It is amazing and odd to have perky boobies. Right now they are a bit misshapen and high.
Oh I am using the binder they gave me for my TT just folded in 1/2. It is working well. The ace bandage kept twisting and turning. I have some pretty gnarly bruising on the top of my boobs. That is where is is sorest. Also I have nipple sensation in my left side already!! I dont know about the right, I felt the left by accident pulling the gauze off. UPDATE I cut the binder too small so it did not hold the ice well. It will hold JUST the girls and provide compression when needed just not the ice. Ice is my best friend right now. I have had them on ice continuously now. I am finally giving the ice a rest but I am afraid I am missing it already. I fell asleep with it on and it leaked. So my incisions on the right is wet now. I have a washcloth inside to pull the moisture out. Not going to rub them dry OUCH.
To those who are thinking of getting the girls done but are afraid because of the pain. It really is not too bad at all. Just keep on top of the pain. I take 1 percoset every 3-5 hours at the beginning of the ache. I was told 2 every 4-6 but I don't want to take that much. It is a deep ache no REAL pain tho.
I am feeling better already today. I tire easily, If I don't have ice on them constantly I can feel it. I was even able to do some light cleaning and did the dishes. I can not put them away cause I am not supposed to reach above my shoulders. Unable to do laundry cause of lifting also. I was scared to death having ice on the "teens" lol I got a giggle out of typing "teens". It was -30 ish with wind chill, when I went in for surgery here. I was SOOO worried about "shrinkage". Not fun when they get painfully hard cause they are cold. But that has not happened I also put it on the tops or bottoms not near the nipples.
OH btw I still have sensation on both sides, actually more sensation than before!! That will be a good thing later on after I heal more. Hopefully I am not hyper sensitive.
For those who care to see I have an album I will try to keep updated you can check out. WARNING There is bare boobies showing!! Must be 18 blah blah blah to see.
http://s58.photobucket.com/albums/g254/mrsbull/Boobies/ Password is "Boobies".
Well Hello my fellow followers. Feb 2nd I had a BL/ no implants. Things went well. I woke up in some pain but able to go back to sleep. After about 20 hrs of the pain not being able to be controlled in the left breast they switched me over to Dilauded from Morphine. Worked SO much better. The pain was gone in 5-10 minutes after the shot. The only problem was it made my breathing very slow and my O2 sats drop. They did not like that much. I also fainted a few times due to low o2 levels and low heart rate. But as soon as they stopped the dilauded and I just went to percocet things improved quite a bit.
I have minimal pain in my breasts right one just feels like I got punched in it a few days ago (just sore). Left one hurts a bit more but not bad for now. I am keeping up with pain meds, fluids, walking around and have come colace and some other "poopin meds" headed in so I am hoping NOT to get constipated any more than I am now.
My tummy is swollen, I think from the fluids and recent TT. But all in all I feel good. The boobies are a bit higher than I want them but I know they will settle down soon. I also am "prepped" for implants as well thus the higher boobies.
I am surprised about how good I feel. Just need to stay on top of the pain and all will be good. No drains (Thank Goodness) and just a lollipop incision. I have ice on the area now. It is amazing and odd to have perky boobies. Right now they are a bit misshapen and high.
Oh I am using the binder they gave me for my TT just folded in 1/2. It is working well. The ace bandage kept twisting and turning. I have some pretty gnarly bruising on the top of my boobs. That is where is is sorest. Also I have nipple sensation in my left side already!! I dont know about the right, I felt the left by accident pulling the gauze off. UPDATE I cut the binder too small so it did not hold the ice well. It will hold JUST the girls and provide compression when needed just not the ice. Ice is my best friend right now. I have had them on ice continuously now. I am finally giving the ice a rest but I am afraid I am missing it already. I fell asleep with it on and it leaked. So my incisions on the right is wet now. I have a washcloth inside to pull the moisture out. Not going to rub them dry OUCH.
To those who are thinking of getting the girls done but are afraid because of the pain. It really is not too bad at all. Just keep on top of the pain. I take 1 percoset every 3-5 hours at the beginning of the ache. I was told 2 every 4-6 but I don't want to take that much. It is a deep ache no REAL pain tho.
I am feeling better already today. I tire easily, If I don't have ice on them constantly I can feel it. I was even able to do some light cleaning and did the dishes. I can not put them away cause I am not supposed to reach above my shoulders. Unable to do laundry cause of lifting also. I was scared to death having ice on the "teens" lol I got a giggle out of typing "teens". It was -30 ish with wind chill, when I went in for surgery here. I was SOOO worried about "shrinkage". Not fun when they get painfully hard cause they are cold. But that has not happened I also put it on the tops or bottoms not near the nipples.
OH btw I still have sensation on both sides, actually more sensation than before!! That will be a good thing later on after I heal more. Hopefully I am not hyper sensitive.
For those who care to see I have an album I will try to keep updated you can check out. WARNING There is bare boobies showing!! Must be 18 blah blah blah to see.
http://s58.photobucket.com/albums/g254/mrsbull/Boobies/ Password is "Boobies".
More tummy stuff.
Tummies and boobies OH MY!!
Well since my TT I look and feel great! I will post some pics in a few. Recovery was great but the Pain meds backed me up bad!!
I went in last Friday (Jan 21st) to see the plastic surgeon thru the Army hospital here. He said he will do my boobies (Rasins actually). I am unable to get implants because of my ins. They will not pay for it. Dammit, But I will be able to have a lift done. My scheduled surgery date is Feb 2nd. Yep 1 week from today. I am stoked!! There is not a lot I am worried about just pain. I felt awesome after my TT and hope to feel the same as well this time.
BOOBIES!!
It is Jan 25th and I am 7 days from my breast lift. I am excited and nervous. Nervous cause they MAY be smaller than they are now. I am sitting here reading my blog on the crapola I have been thru this past year and I must say I am soooo much better than before. Breast lift is next week.Yikes!!
Tummies and boobies OH MY!!
First post!
Nicholes Tummy Tuck Blog
03/17/2008 rny gastric bypass
04/2008 gallbladder removal
04/2010 pancreatic surgery (g tube insertion)
05/2010 pancreatic surgery repeat
06/2010 g tube removal
11/15/2010 tummy tuck blog began
11/16/2010 surgery date (tummy tuck)
Hi, My name is Nichole. I am 31 y/o F. I had gastric bypass almost 3 years ago.
On 3/17/2008. I have lost 140 lbs. I was 305 lbs, I am 5'6. I am currently give or
take 165-168 lbs. I have had some problems since my gastric bypass to include,
pancreatitis as the biggest problem. There have been a few others, 3 abdominal
surgeries. I also have given birth to 4 children. So needless to say I have some
extra abdominal skin that needs to come off and hopefully my outcome will be
desirable and cosmetically appealing. This blog is a journal of my pre op
mental state. Post op feelings and events. As well as I will TRY to add photos
for those who wish to see what I look like before and after. I am getting a
Tummy Tuck with a muscle repair.
(written on 11/15/10)
Last week 11/05/10 and 11/10/10. I did all my pre op stuff I had to do. UA, Blood
and meet with whom will be my favorite pre op person the anesthesia (spelling I know)
gal. Who will be giving me the good drugs :D. I also met with the surgeons PA.
She seemed nice, she will also be in the OR with him (Dr Woll) as well. I was told
then I will have 2-4 drains. 2 below my hips and maybe 2 above the incision.
I was also told that I will have an incision about 2 inches past my hip bone to hip
bone. I will be taking photos in a few minutes to document my "physical" appearance
and for me to be able to look at when I wonder what in the hell did I do to myself.
I will be also likely having a muscle repair. The muscle repair is basically where
they take the muscle that has stretched from my zyphoid process (lower breast bone)
to my pelvis/pubic area. The muscle repair is supposed to be basically like what
a shoelace does to a shoe. Brings the muscle into itself again so I can have
better muscular definition in my stomach. 6 pack maybe :D.
I know I will be in a decent amount of pain. I will be on a morphine pca
(patient controlled analgesia) pump. Basically I will be able to give myself my
painkillers as soon as I am post op. I plan on keeping it in my hand ;). Because I
am planning on being in a considerable amount of pain. I also was told I will be on
painkillers (percoset or vicodin) when I return home.
11/15/2010: about 24 hours pre op
Today is a mix of emotions. I am scared, happy, nervous, excited, anxious. I feel
like I did when I was 9 mos pregnant, I am nesting of sorts. Pre making meals for
us, doing laundry, keeping up on dishes, cleaning. I have to go take my pregnancy test
later on at the hospital. I also hope to make it to the library to grab a few books
and dvds to kill time while I am post op and not able to do a lot. Tonight I have
shower (duh) but I am supposed to scrub the "site" with some scrubby thing with
antibacterial soap in it. I am also supposed to use it again in the am. I have to
call later on to get my op time. I sure hope they give me something for nerves.
Think it is too early to ask??? I am beginning to be a nervous wreck.
I have had some problems with anesthesia before with previous surgeries. I had a
knee surgery about 5 years or so ago. When I was still fat. I was in the OR, I was
given the paralytic that they give so your body relaxes before they place the
breathing tube. I had what is called "anesthesia awareness" meaning I remember more
than I should. I remember the Dr asking the nurse to apply cricoid pressure.
Meaning I was about to have a breathing tube down my throat while awake but
paralyzed. Not being able to open your eyes or being able to let the OR staff know
that I was not "out" is not a fun thing. Scary as hell actually.
I also "woke up" once during a procedure. I woke up during the removal of a g tube
(feeding tube).
I felt the pain when they were taking it out and yelled that it hurt. The Dr then
told them to give me more meds.
So that said I am a bit apprehensive. I have told everyone who will be in the OR
about my past experience and that I do NOT wish for it to happen again.
Day 2 Post op: 11/19/2010
Well hello again. Surgery was 2 days ago, on the 16th. It is now the 19th and I
have been home for just under 24 hours. I woke up from surgery not feeling too bad.
I made it to my room and was put on a clear liquid diet. (water basically). I was
handed a "full clear liquid" diet. To include ginger ale, jello and fruit juice.
All full of sugar. My mom brought me a burger and zucchini. So I decided to skip
the clears and eat some food. I had no problems with that. My pain was minimal,
morphine was not working well for my respiratory effort. I was only breathing
5x per min they said. Spo2 levels were down from 54%-90%. While awake and
sleeping so I was put on o2. I was also switched to dilauded. That helped some,
with the pain I know now I prefer morphine for pain control. I slept on and off the
first night. Never sleeping for more than an hour and 1/2 at a time. I awoke about
6 am ate, and decided I felt so good I would go for a walk around the floor, with
help of course. I cleaned up my room, washed up and brushed my teeth and hair.
I overdid it. I also paid for it as well. So I have learned my activity level has to be restricted no matter how good I feel. I was not expecting to feel as well as I do but I feel alright.
I am moving now. Last night was a bit rough, I slept on the couch and had to go to
the bathroom a lot as the IV fluids were coming off.
Dr Woll was awesome!! He said he took 2 1/2 lbs of skin off!! I have 2 drains and
they are in my groin area. I have not taken the bandages off yet. I have seen a small
preview of my tummy without the binder on and I have an hourglass figure already!!
I am supposed to take the binder off tonight and the bandages off over the
incision. Shower and lightly clean the area. I am still on pain killers now but I do not think I will need them much longer. I need to learn to take it easy. Benadryl is somewhat helping the itching. I am itchy everywhere!! My back, arms, legs and even face.I have tons of small open scratches all over my body. Mostly because of the pain killers are making me itch. I feel well I am able to get on and off the couch alone now. Tonight may be different, as that is when it seems I am the sleepiest and in the most pain. Well it is nap time again. I will write more whenever. I also have some photos to post and I will be taking more pics as time and how I feel permits. Maybe before/after my bandages come off tonight.
\
Nov 22,2010
6 days post op:
Day 6. Today is the first day I can stand up for more than 5 minutes and not be
exhausted. Thank goodness. I can also (for the most part) stand up straight.
I was able to stand and wash dishes from dinner,last night this morning. Excited I
was able to do them but sad cause I able to do them agin lol. So much for milking
it. (Just kidding) I have taken more photos since surgery. I will have to add them to the blog page
when I get internet. I feel good for the most part. 2 nights ago we went to the mall. I walked around
for almost 1 1/2 hours. I was dragging ass yesterday for overdoing it. So yesterday
I chilled out on the sofa. And did a whole lot of nothing. However last night I
needed to make a trip to the store. I went to walmart and got a new tank top. I
LOVE wearing tank tops what are "slim" fitting. 1 it shows off my tummy and 2 it
also although it is likely psychological, helps me with some compression in the
tummy area. I cant really wear a bra with the binder on tho so that kinda sucks.
But I digress,
I needed to get some milk and maxi pads also. Yea sounds like TMI however there is
a reason that I mentioned this. To the people who are reading this blog who will be
getting a tummy tuck, taking care of someone who is having a tummy tuck. I HIGHLY
recommend Extra long maxi pads. I am using Stayfree brand 4 wall/channel extra
long pads. I love them!! I am using them for covering my incisions. They are PERFECT!
Tape them over the steri stips and they provide immediate softness and protection.
Wide enough for adequate coverage and thick enough not to cause pain under the
abdominal binder I have to wear for the next 3 weeks. Also thin enough not to hinder
the job the binder is doing. They also would not snag the stitches I have (if I have any)
should they poke out and catch like gauze would. The Pads would work for someone
Who’s wound is not healing and constantly seeping. They can also be cut around your
drains and do not hinder bathroom use one bit! My wounds are healing well and my
incisions are not infected (that I know of). But there is occasional tugging and
pulling of my incisions that is painful and has made me wonder if I tore something
in the area. I just look at the pads and know I am not bleeding or goo is coming
out. Much cheaper than gauze and less tape is needed. I have 2 pads taped together
and then taped onto me. Aw hell rather than explain it I will add the photo to this blog.
I am not sure what the actual job that the binder is doing but I am ok with wearing
it. I do take it off (not completely) just open it up a few times daily to let
myself breathe normally and my incisions get some fresh air. I may be able to take
a shower alone today. I may ask for some help from the kiddo cause I need to shave my legs badly.
That may hurt to bend over like that. I can also bend over now and pick something
small and light off the floor. It does hurt but I can do it. I am also mostly
standing up straight again also. Actually this morning my glasses had fallen under
my bed and in order for me to be able to see I had to get them. I got on my hands
and knees to reach under the bed and retrieve them. No one was here sooo... I did
it. It hurt like heck but I am trying to wean myself of the painkillers.. Did not
happen this am because of the glasses thing. I hope to be completely off within the
next day or 2. I need to make an appt for a "wound check" for tomorrow with the Drs office. They
should pull the right drain out. The output is 20 cc. They will take it out they
said when it is less than 20cc for 24 hours. I MAY be able to talk them into it
tomorrow or wed. The drain is a pain, The right one pulls and tugs and when I strip
the tubing it causes some pain in my right side as well as burns a bit. The drain
looks like it will hurt like a SOB when it is pulled. I know when I had my drain in
my left side post op from my gastric bypass it was the most painful 20 seconds I
had ever experienced in my life. It was also infected and the pa did not know it
was sutured into my skin at the time. So that I am sure did not help my experience
much. I just know that I am hopeful to have at least the 1 removed.
Today is Monday, Thursday is Thanksgiving. I am planning on going to my moms house
to spend the holiday with them. I have not spent a holiday
with them in the past few years. Well I have nothing post op to write
about at this time. I will write more after I visit the Drs for my post op check up. I am also 165 again. Back to my pre op weight (give or take a few lbs) Until then have a fabulous week!
Nicholes Tummy Tuck Blog
03/17/2008 rny gastric bypass
04/2008 gallbladder removal
04/2010 pancreatic surgery (g tube insertion)
05/2010 pancreatic surgery repeat
06/2010 g tube removal
11/15/2010 tummy tuck blog began
11/16/2010 surgery date (tummy tuck)
Hi, My name is Nichole. I am 31 y/o F. I had gastric bypass almost 3 years ago.
On 3/17/2008. I have lost 140 lbs. I was 305 lbs, I am 5'6. I am currently give or
take 165-168 lbs. I have had some problems since my gastric bypass to include,
pancreatitis as the biggest problem. There have been a few others, 3 abdominal
surgeries. I also have given birth to 4 children. So needless to say I have some
extra abdominal skin that needs to come off and hopefully my outcome will be
desirable and cosmetically appealing. This blog is a journal of my pre op
mental state. Post op feelings and events. As well as I will TRY to add photos
for those who wish to see what I look like before and after. I am getting a
Tummy Tuck with a muscle repair.
(written on 11/15/10)
Last week 11/05/10 and 11/10/10. I did all my pre op stuff I had to do. UA, Blood
and meet with whom will be my favorite pre op person the anesthesia (spelling I know)
gal. Who will be giving me the good drugs :D. I also met with the surgeons PA.
She seemed nice, she will also be in the OR with him (Dr Woll) as well. I was told
then I will have 2-4 drains. 2 below my hips and maybe 2 above the incision.
I was also told that I will have an incision about 2 inches past my hip bone to hip
bone. I will be taking photos in a few minutes to document my "physical" appearance
and for me to be able to look at when I wonder what in the hell did I do to myself.
I will be also likely having a muscle repair. The muscle repair is basically where
they take the muscle that has stretched from my zyphoid process (lower breast bone)
to my pelvis/pubic area. The muscle repair is supposed to be basically like what
a shoelace does to a shoe. Brings the muscle into itself again so I can have
better muscular definition in my stomach. 6 pack maybe :D.
I know I will be in a decent amount of pain. I will be on a morphine pca
(patient controlled analgesia) pump. Basically I will be able to give myself my
painkillers as soon as I am post op. I plan on keeping it in my hand ;). Because I
am planning on being in a considerable amount of pain. I also was told I will be on
painkillers (percoset or vicodin) when I return home.
11/15/2010: about 24 hours pre op
Today is a mix of emotions. I am scared, happy, nervous, excited, anxious. I feel
like I did when I was 9 mos pregnant, I am nesting of sorts. Pre making meals for
us, doing laundry, keeping up on dishes, cleaning. I have to go take my pregnancy test
later on at the hospital. I also hope to make it to the library to grab a few books
and dvds to kill time while I am post op and not able to do a lot. Tonight I have
shower (duh) but I am supposed to scrub the "site" with some scrubby thing with
antibacterial soap in it. I am also supposed to use it again in the am. I have to
call later on to get my op time. I sure hope they give me something for nerves.
Think it is too early to ask??? I am beginning to be a nervous wreck.
I have had some problems with anesthesia before with previous surgeries. I had a
knee surgery about 5 years or so ago. When I was still fat. I was in the OR, I was
given the paralytic that they give so your body relaxes before they place the
breathing tube. I had what is called "anesthesia awareness" meaning I remember more
than I should. I remember the Dr asking the nurse to apply cricoid pressure.
Meaning I was about to have a breathing tube down my throat while awake but
paralyzed. Not being able to open your eyes or being able to let the OR staff know
that I was not "out" is not a fun thing. Scary as hell actually.
I also "woke up" once during a procedure. I woke up during the removal of a g tube
(feeding tube).
I felt the pain when they were taking it out and yelled that it hurt. The Dr then
told them to give me more meds.
So that said I am a bit apprehensive. I have told everyone who will be in the OR
about my past experience and that I do NOT wish for it to happen again.
Day 2 Post op: 11/19/2010
Well hello again. Surgery was 2 days ago, on the 16th. It is now the 19th and I
have been home for just under 24 hours. I woke up from surgery not feeling too bad.
I made it to my room and was put on a clear liquid diet. (water basically). I was
handed a "full clear liquid" diet. To include ginger ale, jello and fruit juice.
All full of sugar. My mom brought me a burger and zucchini. So I decided to skip
the clears and eat some food. I had no problems with that. My pain was minimal,
morphine was not working well for my respiratory effort. I was only breathing
5x per min they said. Spo2 levels were down from 54%-90%. While awake and
sleeping so I was put on o2. I was also switched to dilauded. That helped some,
with the pain I know now I prefer morphine for pain control. I slept on and off the
first night. Never sleeping for more than an hour and 1/2 at a time. I awoke about
6 am ate, and decided I felt so good I would go for a walk around the floor, with
help of course. I cleaned up my room, washed up and brushed my teeth and hair.
I overdid it. I also paid for it as well. So I have learned my activity level has to be restricted no matter how good I feel. I was not expecting to feel as well as I do but I feel alright.
I am moving now. Last night was a bit rough, I slept on the couch and had to go to
the bathroom a lot as the IV fluids were coming off.
Dr Woll was awesome!! He said he took 2 1/2 lbs of skin off!! I have 2 drains and
they are in my groin area. I have not taken the bandages off yet. I have seen a small
preview of my tummy without the binder on and I have an hourglass figure already!!
I am supposed to take the binder off tonight and the bandages off over the
incision. Shower and lightly clean the area. I am still on pain killers now but I do not think I will need them much longer. I need to learn to take it easy. Benadryl is somewhat helping the itching. I am itchy everywhere!! My back, arms, legs and even face.I have tons of small open scratches all over my body. Mostly because of the pain killers are making me itch. I feel well I am able to get on and off the couch alone now. Tonight may be different, as that is when it seems I am the sleepiest and in the most pain. Well it is nap time again. I will write more whenever. I also have some photos to post and I will be taking more pics as time and how I feel permits. Maybe before/after my bandages come off tonight.
\
Nov 22,2010
6 days post op:
Day 6. Today is the first day I can stand up for more than 5 minutes and not be
exhausted. Thank goodness. I can also (for the most part) stand up straight.
I was able to stand and wash dishes from dinner,last night this morning. Excited I
was able to do them but sad cause I able to do them agin lol. So much for milking
it. (Just kidding) I have taken more photos since surgery. I will have to add them to the blog page
when I get internet. I feel good for the most part. 2 nights ago we went to the mall. I walked around
for almost 1 1/2 hours. I was dragging ass yesterday for overdoing it. So yesterday
I chilled out on the sofa. And did a whole lot of nothing. However last night I
needed to make a trip to the store. I went to walmart and got a new tank top. I
LOVE wearing tank tops what are "slim" fitting. 1 it shows off my tummy and 2 it
also although it is likely psychological, helps me with some compression in the
tummy area. I cant really wear a bra with the binder on tho so that kinda sucks.
But I digress,
I needed to get some milk and maxi pads also. Yea sounds like TMI however there is
a reason that I mentioned this. To the people who are reading this blog who will be
getting a tummy tuck, taking care of someone who is having a tummy tuck. I HIGHLY
recommend Extra long maxi pads. I am using Stayfree brand 4 wall/channel extra
long pads. I love them!! I am using them for covering my incisions. They are PERFECT!
Tape them over the steri stips and they provide immediate softness and protection.
Wide enough for adequate coverage and thick enough not to cause pain under the
abdominal binder I have to wear for the next 3 weeks. Also thin enough not to hinder
the job the binder is doing. They also would not snag the stitches I have (if I have any)
should they poke out and catch like gauze would. The Pads would work for someone
Who’s wound is not healing and constantly seeping. They can also be cut around your
drains and do not hinder bathroom use one bit! My wounds are healing well and my
incisions are not infected (that I know of). But there is occasional tugging and
pulling of my incisions that is painful and has made me wonder if I tore something
in the area. I just look at the pads and know I am not bleeding or goo is coming
out. Much cheaper than gauze and less tape is needed. I have 2 pads taped together
and then taped onto me. Aw hell rather than explain it I will add the photo to this blog.
I am not sure what the actual job that the binder is doing but I am ok with wearing
it. I do take it off (not completely) just open it up a few times daily to let
myself breathe normally and my incisions get some fresh air. I may be able to take
a shower alone today. I may ask for some help from the kiddo cause I need to shave my legs badly.
That may hurt to bend over like that. I can also bend over now and pick something
small and light off the floor. It does hurt but I can do it. I am also mostly
standing up straight again also. Actually this morning my glasses had fallen under
my bed and in order for me to be able to see I had to get them. I got on my hands
and knees to reach under the bed and retrieve them. No one was here sooo... I did
it. It hurt like heck but I am trying to wean myself of the painkillers.. Did not
happen this am because of the glasses thing. I hope to be completely off within the
next day or 2. I need to make an appt for a "wound check" for tomorrow with the Drs office. They
should pull the right drain out. The output is 20 cc. They will take it out they
said when it is less than 20cc for 24 hours. I MAY be able to talk them into it
tomorrow or wed. The drain is a pain, The right one pulls and tugs and when I strip
the tubing it causes some pain in my right side as well as burns a bit. The drain
looks like it will hurt like a SOB when it is pulled. I know when I had my drain in
my left side post op from my gastric bypass it was the most painful 20 seconds I
had ever experienced in my life. It was also infected and the pa did not know it
was sutured into my skin at the time. So that I am sure did not help my experience
much. I just know that I am hopeful to have at least the 1 removed.
Today is Monday, Thursday is Thanksgiving. I am planning on going to my moms house
to spend the holiday with them. I have not spent a holiday
with them in the past few years. Well I have nothing post op to write
about at this time. I will write more after I visit the Drs for my post op check up. I am also 165 again. Back to my pre op weight (give or take a few lbs) Until then have a fabulous week!
Monday, September 27, 2010
Wish list!!
My Christmas Wish list. I don't want anything for Christmas but for Erica to have a good one! That said a list of things I want to get for myself someday. One at a time but it is something to do today. So skip this post if you like. I'm having fun with it!! For those of you who know me, you know I am not materialistic AT ALL. But a girl still likes to get things right???
Nicholes Wish List:
http://www.dooney.com/OA_HTML/ibeCCtpSctDspRte.jsp?section=49148 (the center 3 colors)
http://www.louisvuitton.com/us/flash/index.jsp?direct1=home_entry_us (in black)
http://www.buythebullet.com/
http://www.applevacations.com/caribbean/ (hey a girl can dream cant she??)
http://www.expedia.com/pub/agent.dll?qscr=cmsh&subm=1&dsct=&dlvl=&rtmn=&rtmx=&dcty=&drid1=3687&dcty=Venice+Italy&tdpt1=&trtn1=&ffst=0&cadu1=2&cmbt=2&qryt=8&rdct=1&semcid=13172-1&eapid=13172-1&kword=trips%20to%20Venice!e.ZzZz.602596635.0.3822732716.trips%20to%20venice.trips_to_Venice
http://www.carnival.com/BookingEngine/SailingSearch/?dat=012011&embkCode=MIA&dur=D2&dest=C
Times Square New Years Eve!!!
Mardi Gras!
That is all I can think of for now. I suppose I just need a vacation. I suppose it is cause I have never had one. Unless you count a honeymoon. Not talking about that one tho lol. bad memories...
Nicholes Wish List:
http://www.dooney.com/OA_HTML/ibeCCtpSctDspRte.jsp?section=49148 (the center 3 colors)
http://www.louisvuitton.com/us/flash/index.jsp?direct1=home_entry_us (in black)
http://www.buythebullet.com/
http://www.applevacations.com/caribbean/ (hey a girl can dream cant she??)
http://www.expedia.com/pub/agent.dll?qscr=cmsh&subm=1&dsct=&dlvl=&rtmn=&rtmx=&dcty=&drid1=3687&dcty=Venice+Italy&tdpt1=&trtn1=&ffst=0&cadu1=2&cmbt=2&qryt=8&rdct=1&semcid=13172-1&eapid=13172-1&kword=trips%20to%20Venice!e.ZzZz.602596635.0.3822732716.trips%20to%20venice.trips_to_Venice
http://www.carnival.com/BookingEngine/SailingSearch/?dat=012011&embkCode=MIA&dur=D2&dest=C
Times Square New Years Eve!!!
Mardi Gras!
That is all I can think of for now. I suppose I just need a vacation. I suppose it is cause I have never had one. Unless you count a honeymoon. Not talking about that one tho lol. bad memories...
A new start
Yikes it has been 3 months since I have posted on this blog. I am sorry for those of you looking forward to it. I have a few followers but not a bunch. Nice and small how I like it. I have more that are not visible than are tho.
Ok where to start. The pancreatic problems appear to be over. I have had some trouble with anemia. I had to have an iron infusion. But that appears to have worked as well. Scared feeling helpless at times but dammit I am doing it. With some help from friends. (Thanks Tiff)!!.
Shoot I don't even think I have posted that I have a job now. Not childcare anymore but I am working on the top of Pikes Peak as an EMT. It is an OK job. I am getting some decent hours in but not as many as I would like. Hardly nuff to sustain us but budgeting sucks anyways.
Soo I am getting out of this place I live in. Have been here for a lil while but it is time to get out and have a better home for Erica. Hell I could (and have) lived anywhere but she deserves more than this place. So we are moving into a town home across town. It is only for a few months, so I can save up some cash to have our own place and not have to deal with anything but being a good mom and role model. I need to focus on that. I will find a church to start attending as well. Maybe if my head is on just a bit more spiritually then I will be able to make better choices. Ill keep you updated on that.
Sooo last night I get a call from a production company. (been waiting on this call for a while now) About doing H/M. They are also asking if I am interested in a part in this upcoming movie. Am I interested? Not really but damn how often does this happen??? Not that I am interested in being an actress but Shit this weight loss has opened SOOOOO Many doors for me. Nothing would have happened if I was still FAT, lets face it producers dont call fat ppl... Sooo I may go for it. This is a vampire movie. I am waiting on a call. They got the financial backers now for it so casting is beginning.
Me an actress lmbo... OK whatever works. I suppose I am good at Drama, My mom always said I was dramatic. Although that has slowed down since I became a grownup.
I also got another call about a job with a consulting firm in NYC. Not moving there but an independent contractor for well umm a magazine so to speak. Apparently my name is getting around town (who woulda thought) I answered an ad from Craigslist in Feb and did the movie and now ppl are calling me!! Exciting but I am leary as well. I dont know what to thing about that. I have not really EVER made myself marketable. Now I am and didnt do anything. Falling in my lap. I suppose God has a plan for me now.
Lastly before I end this. I have an appt Next Wed with a surgeon. I am approved for a tummy tuck!! I hope I can save up nuff cash to support us for a month. I SHOULD be able to go back to work after 2-3 weeks but I am saying a month just in case. I hope I can have some help taking care of Erica after. Like getting her to school and the like. I know she will help me :) She is such a cool kid.
Ha the other day I was headed to see my Mom and oldest son Andrew (he will be 13 soon) :( Anyways,,,
Erica was putting my lip gloss on. And I told her no more that she will look like a hooker. Yea, I should not have said that but it slipped. Sooo She asks me what a hooker is. My gosh it was so cute. But I quickly realizes she DOES listen to what I say and does not ignore me like I think she does. So I told her to ask grandma. Grandma said it was when a girl gets all dressed up and flirts with boys and goes to jail. (Thanks Mom for the save)
I will post more often I promise. Have a good week ya all!!
Ok where to start. The pancreatic problems appear to be over. I have had some trouble with anemia. I had to have an iron infusion. But that appears to have worked as well. Scared feeling helpless at times but dammit I am doing it. With some help from friends. (Thanks Tiff)!!.
Shoot I don't even think I have posted that I have a job now. Not childcare anymore but I am working on the top of Pikes Peak as an EMT. It is an OK job. I am getting some decent hours in but not as many as I would like. Hardly nuff to sustain us but budgeting sucks anyways.
Soo I am getting out of this place I live in. Have been here for a lil while but it is time to get out and have a better home for Erica. Hell I could (and have) lived anywhere but she deserves more than this place. So we are moving into a town home across town. It is only for a few months, so I can save up some cash to have our own place and not have to deal with anything but being a good mom and role model. I need to focus on that. I will find a church to start attending as well. Maybe if my head is on just a bit more spiritually then I will be able to make better choices. Ill keep you updated on that.
Sooo last night I get a call from a production company. (been waiting on this call for a while now) About doing H/M. They are also asking if I am interested in a part in this upcoming movie. Am I interested? Not really but damn how often does this happen??? Not that I am interested in being an actress but Shit this weight loss has opened SOOOOO Many doors for me. Nothing would have happened if I was still FAT, lets face it producers dont call fat ppl... Sooo I may go for it. This is a vampire movie. I am waiting on a call. They got the financial backers now for it so casting is beginning.
Me an actress lmbo... OK whatever works. I suppose I am good at Drama, My mom always said I was dramatic. Although that has slowed down since I became a grownup.
I also got another call about a job with a consulting firm in NYC. Not moving there but an independent contractor for well umm a magazine so to speak. Apparently my name is getting around town (who woulda thought) I answered an ad from Craigslist in Feb and did the movie and now ppl are calling me!! Exciting but I am leary as well. I dont know what to thing about that. I have not really EVER made myself marketable. Now I am and didnt do anything. Falling in my lap. I suppose God has a plan for me now.
Lastly before I end this. I have an appt Next Wed with a surgeon. I am approved for a tummy tuck!! I hope I can save up nuff cash to support us for a month. I SHOULD be able to go back to work after 2-3 weeks but I am saying a month just in case. I hope I can have some help taking care of Erica after. Like getting her to school and the like. I know she will help me :) She is such a cool kid.
Ha the other day I was headed to see my Mom and oldest son Andrew (he will be 13 soon) :( Anyways,,,
Erica was putting my lip gloss on. And I told her no more that she will look like a hooker. Yea, I should not have said that but it slipped. Sooo She asks me what a hooker is. My gosh it was so cute. But I quickly realizes she DOES listen to what I say and does not ignore me like I think she does. So I told her to ask grandma. Grandma said it was when a girl gets all dressed up and flirts with boys and goes to jail. (Thanks Mom for the save)
I will post more often I promise. Have a good week ya all!!
Thursday, June 24, 2010
No more pancreatic blogging!!
From now on this blog is going to be about something other than my health. I am tried of having issues so I am done going to the Drs and done going other places.
Lets start from a new beginning shall we?? I have a job interview tomorrow. The second one for the Ambulance Company in Trinidad. It is a 2 hour drive, long but not excruciating. Take a while to get there especially when there is nothing but jazz on the radio. Cds have all been heard and I just kinda talked to myself last time and went over some protocols and etc. This time I will be talking to myself once again. Going over possible interview questions.
I contacted the recruiter and said how nice it was to meet them and learn about the company etc. I got a quick response and was asked if I was ready to come back!! I am of course. I also asked if I could do a ride along. He said to come dressed in uniform. So it looks like I will have the opportunity to be able to do a ride along should someone get hurt or sick. I also should be able to see how the medics and basics work together. That is all for now. More later!
Lets start from a new beginning shall we?? I have a job interview tomorrow. The second one for the Ambulance Company in Trinidad. It is a 2 hour drive, long but not excruciating. Take a while to get there especially when there is nothing but jazz on the radio. Cds have all been heard and I just kinda talked to myself last time and went over some protocols and etc. This time I will be talking to myself once again. Going over possible interview questions.
I contacted the recruiter and said how nice it was to meet them and learn about the company etc. I got a quick response and was asked if I was ready to come back!! I am of course. I also asked if I could do a ride along. He said to come dressed in uniform. So it looks like I will have the opportunity to be able to do a ride along should someone get hurt or sick. I also should be able to see how the medics and basics work together. That is all for now. More later!
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Tubeless
Well it sure was a long night last night. Tossing and turning. I had to wake up take a shower hop online and finally got a bit of sleep. (an hour). My new neighbor went with me to the hospital and watched Erica while I was in the hosp.
Got there needed to take a pregnancy test of course it was -. Registered and waited for the Doc to be ready for me. The Nurse Anesthetist came in and knocked me out. I WOKE UP during the procedure!!! I remember waking up saying OUCH OUCH and the Dr looking at the Anest guy and said give her more NOW!! Apparently he listened cause I woke up in the PACU. After laying on my back for an hour. The muscle was on the tube. I went to the clinic again. Had an x-ray and went home after a while.
I'm still loopy and tired now so I will post more later. I was given gauze and tagaderm for the leaking. So far it is not leaking. Or much that I know of. Sweet Dreams Ya'all!
Got there needed to take a pregnancy test of course it was -. Registered and waited for the Doc to be ready for me. The Nurse Anesthetist came in and knocked me out. I WOKE UP during the procedure!!! I remember waking up saying OUCH OUCH and the Dr looking at the Anest guy and said give her more NOW!! Apparently he listened cause I woke up in the PACU. After laying on my back for an hour. The muscle was on the tube. I went to the clinic again. Had an x-ray and went home after a while.
I'm still loopy and tired now so I will post more later. I was given gauze and tagaderm for the leaking. So far it is not leaking. Or much that I know of. Sweet Dreams Ya'all!
Another Hosp Visit
Well hey all! Ok updates. I am up at 4 in the freaking am cause I can not sleep. I will be leaving in a few hours to get this tube pulled out!! Dr said that he will knock me out while pulling it cause it is painful. I will not have the hole closed just some gauze and tape. I will tell him I want some tagaderm tho cause my tummy is raw from 3 months of changing tape 1-3x daily. I am sensitive to most tapes too ugh. I just hope it closes up well and no infection and no "ooze".
So that is pretty much it. OH I almost forgot, I got my state certs last week. So finally State AND National certified. I went to an ambulance company monday for an interview well more like a pre interview. Exam/meet and greet type of thing. Seems like a decent place to work hours are good pay is not bad at all, ppl seem nice and everything I needed was explained to me. But it is 2 hrs away. So I would not be able to come home but 3-4 days a week. I would have to stay there and also find a VERY FULL time sitter for Erica. Maybe I'll get a college kid or something like that. Pay rent for a place to live or something. We'll see!! Either that or I will just move down there. I will then be able to come home in the evenings or days whenever the work is. But I would HAVE to be within a 15 min response time to be at the station to take calls when I would be on call. I was invited back (at the first interview) to come back for an informal interview with the ops team. So wish me luck!!
So that is pretty much it. OH I almost forgot, I got my state certs last week. So finally State AND National certified. I went to an ambulance company monday for an interview well more like a pre interview. Exam/meet and greet type of thing. Seems like a decent place to work hours are good pay is not bad at all, ppl seem nice and everything I needed was explained to me. But it is 2 hrs away. So I would not be able to come home but 3-4 days a week. I would have to stay there and also find a VERY FULL time sitter for Erica. Maybe I'll get a college kid or something like that. Pay rent for a place to live or something. We'll see!! Either that or I will just move down there. I will then be able to come home in the evenings or days whenever the work is. But I would HAVE to be within a 15 min response time to be at the station to take calls when I would be on call. I was invited back (at the first interview) to come back for an informal interview with the ops team. So wish me luck!!
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Back again
Well I realize it has been a while since I have posted on here. Some things have been going on with my personal life that are not bad but not good either. Those I dont want to talk about on this site.
However a bit of an update on my Pancreas. I have had this @#$#% tube in for 2 1/2 mos now and it is getting REALLY OLD!!! I made an appt with my Dr about 2-3 weeks ago and I asked him if it could come out he said no not yet. Because I have been having some problems eating. Well DUH!! I have a smaller stomach than most folks but I also have a G Tube with a balloon inside my small stomach which restricts my intake. Thus not being able to eat much. The foods I do eat are smaller amounts and I do stay full longer but I feel pretty icky when I eat. Mostly it is nausea and sometimes it hurts like hell in my RUQ (right upper quadrant) after I eat and digestion takes place.
So tomorrow I have another scope that is to be done and he will be taking "samples" of my intestines. Pretty gross sounding but I will be knocked out. (I would not have it any other way) Being knocked out is a delightful thing to have optional. It causes pretty neat feelings when "going under" OK OK I can say whatever I want after they give you the meds til I pass out. The versed is kinda neat :P. However I have realized that I do not like the way Benzos make me feel. Icky in recovery.
I am also FINALLY completely OFF the fentanyl patch. I did not realize that when I was put on them that when I was to get off of them I would have to Wean myself and that the "weaning" process is like a heroin withdrawl. I took a patch off a few weeks ago and was sooooooo I'll the next am I felt like I was going to croak. I called the nurse line and they told me to go into the ED or put another patch on. So I went into the ED. They gave me some valium (nice stuff when you need it btw) and send me home. They told me to put a patch on and let it get back into my system. Then when the patch ran out (after 3 days) to cut the next one in 1/2 and use that for the 3 days and continue over the next few weeks til I was off!! I cut my last patch at the 12 mg (roughly) area and wore it for a week. I took it off completely last week and only had a few icky days but the T3s helped with any discomfort. So for now I am only on T3s and am OK with it. Bye Fentanyl patches NEVER AGAIN!!!
I also am going back to school soon. I have applied and am waiting for the school to process things. Looks like my FASFA will be approved fairly fast and my COF (college opportunity fund) is done as well. So I will be going to paramedic school within a year. I hope to be able to meet some of the pioneers of ems soon. The history is fascinating to me. I love hearing about how things "were done" when some of the told and response times were not like they are now. I also hope to get another job soon as a Full Time EMT. I have my pprwk into the state. Just waiting on them to process it. I may call them shortly to see what the hold up is. (OK I will right now, brb)
dooddedoo doodedoo im on hold.
UGH they cant help me. Not right now anyhow, they are moving buildings. (go figure)
Well this was a long update. I hope everyone is doing well!
However a bit of an update on my Pancreas. I have had this @#$#% tube in for 2 1/2 mos now and it is getting REALLY OLD!!! I made an appt with my Dr about 2-3 weeks ago and I asked him if it could come out he said no not yet. Because I have been having some problems eating. Well DUH!! I have a smaller stomach than most folks but I also have a G Tube with a balloon inside my small stomach which restricts my intake. Thus not being able to eat much. The foods I do eat are smaller amounts and I do stay full longer but I feel pretty icky when I eat. Mostly it is nausea and sometimes it hurts like hell in my RUQ (right upper quadrant) after I eat and digestion takes place.
So tomorrow I have another scope that is to be done and he will be taking "samples" of my intestines. Pretty gross sounding but I will be knocked out. (I would not have it any other way) Being knocked out is a delightful thing to have optional. It causes pretty neat feelings when "going under" OK OK I can say whatever I want after they give you the meds til I pass out. The versed is kinda neat :P. However I have realized that I do not like the way Benzos make me feel. Icky in recovery.
I am also FINALLY completely OFF the fentanyl patch. I did not realize that when I was put on them that when I was to get off of them I would have to Wean myself and that the "weaning" process is like a heroin withdrawl. I took a patch off a few weeks ago and was sooooooo I'll the next am I felt like I was going to croak. I called the nurse line and they told me to go into the ED or put another patch on. So I went into the ED. They gave me some valium (nice stuff when you need it btw) and send me home. They told me to put a patch on and let it get back into my system. Then when the patch ran out (after 3 days) to cut the next one in 1/2 and use that for the 3 days and continue over the next few weeks til I was off!! I cut my last patch at the 12 mg (roughly) area and wore it for a week. I took it off completely last week and only had a few icky days but the T3s helped with any discomfort. So for now I am only on T3s and am OK with it. Bye Fentanyl patches NEVER AGAIN!!!
I also am going back to school soon. I have applied and am waiting for the school to process things. Looks like my FASFA will be approved fairly fast and my COF (college opportunity fund) is done as well. So I will be going to paramedic school within a year. I hope to be able to meet some of the pioneers of ems soon. The history is fascinating to me. I love hearing about how things "were done" when some of the told and response times were not like they are now. I also hope to get another job soon as a Full Time EMT. I have my pprwk into the state. Just waiting on them to process it. I may call them shortly to see what the hold up is. (OK I will right now, brb)
dooddedoo doodedoo im on hold.
UGH they cant help me. Not right now anyhow, they are moving buildings. (go figure)
Well this was a long update. I hope everyone is doing well!
Monday, April 19, 2010
Surgery Earlier Today..
Well I had an eventful day. Surgery went well (yay)!!! No more stents were needed, just a few balloons, my levels are still high but I think I MAY be close to not having any more surgeries at this point. The internal tube leak test went smoothly and passed!!
I got some tea to drink and just could not get satisfied from liquids. I went to stop on the way home to get me a bottle of water. I went to the trunk to get some lotion. I had had my jacket protecting my tummy. It fell a bit and I noticed my abdomen was wet and my t shirt SOAKED!!! Bile was leaking from my tube OUT onto my skin!! Now I know why I could not get satisfied from the tea. I might as well have dumped it on myself. I was 45 minutes away from the other hospital where I had my surgery. I was just short of panicking. He took me to an ER that was super close. I went in and told them what had happened. They took me back immediately did not even get triaged.
My shirt is ruined so is my coat I was using to protect my abdomen. The Drs and nurses were scared cause they had NEVER seen this happen before. I was so close to going back and having emergency surgery to fix the leak. The Er doc called my Dr who operated on me today. It took a while because the Dr was in the OR with other patients to get a call back The Operating Doc said the leaking was normal. And if I am still leaking tomorrow then to get it looked at. It is still leaking at this point but there is nothing I can do. But hurry up and wait.
I am home in minimal pain (for now). Pain killers are working perfectly. Just a scary incident is all!!
Hope everyone is doing well! Chat later.
I got some tea to drink and just could not get satisfied from liquids. I went to stop on the way home to get me a bottle of water. I went to the trunk to get some lotion. I had had my jacket protecting my tummy. It fell a bit and I noticed my abdomen was wet and my t shirt SOAKED!!! Bile was leaking from my tube OUT onto my skin!! Now I know why I could not get satisfied from the tea. I might as well have dumped it on myself. I was 45 minutes away from the other hospital where I had my surgery. I was just short of panicking. He took me to an ER that was super close. I went in and told them what had happened. They took me back immediately did not even get triaged.
My shirt is ruined so is my coat I was using to protect my abdomen. The Drs and nurses were scared cause they had NEVER seen this happen before. I was so close to going back and having emergency surgery to fix the leak. The Er doc called my Dr who operated on me today. It took a while because the Dr was in the OR with other patients to get a call back The Operating Doc said the leaking was normal. And if I am still leaking tomorrow then to get it looked at. It is still leaking at this point but there is nothing I can do. But hurry up and wait.
I am home in minimal pain (for now). Pain killers are working perfectly. Just a scary incident is all!!
Hope everyone is doing well! Chat later.
Monday, April 5, 2010
Happy (Late) Easter
Easter Eve: It started off like our typical Saturday. I took Erica to her bowling league. She got a 300!! Yep I am not kidding... First game 03 pins second game 0 pins and the third game 0 pins.!!! We are working on aim with her lol. She is the gutter ball queen!!
We went to pick up Ericas new glasses that had came in and get the new lenses in a new pair as well. I love our eye place. I got the ins 15$ to cover 2 pairs of glasses AND lenses for 1 year. Erica needed to get new lenses cause her script changed a lot since August.
We then went to Lunch. To Sallys to pick up something for Erica's unruly head of hair lol. We were going to get hair cuts but there was a 2 hr wait so we skipped it. Came home rested a bit. I was not that hungry for anything I had in the house. Had a good dinner and came home to decorate Eggs with Erica. I have some pics I may post later on, of that fun time we had. Me all I got was blue hands(don't ask).
The only thing that could have ruined my day (had I allowed it) was when I went to my room for a few to read. Erica came in to give me a kiss. She stood on the frame of the bed to reach me and I put my arm around her waist. She leaned back playing I pretended to let go a bit and she got scared. I was smacked right on top of my tube (OUCH)
Easter Day:
Well my day started off in the usual manner. Erica came in to show me her basket. She was so excited!! There was an Egg hunt that the church next door was holding and the complex conjoined with. So I took Erica there.
Finally not a lot to say about my pancreas. Levels are up as of Friday. Surgery on the 19th AGAIN. I have to make an appt for this week to get the results. That is all!! Hope your Easter was Great!!!!
Oh I forgot to say it is my moms Birthday today and her Twin Sisters as well Happy Birthday Mom and Aunt Doby!!
We went to pick up Ericas new glasses that had came in and get the new lenses in a new pair as well. I love our eye place. I got the ins 15$ to cover 2 pairs of glasses AND lenses for 1 year. Erica needed to get new lenses cause her script changed a lot since August.
We then went to Lunch. To Sallys to pick up something for Erica's unruly head of hair lol. We were going to get hair cuts but there was a 2 hr wait so we skipped it. Came home rested a bit. I was not that hungry for anything I had in the house. Had a good dinner and came home to decorate Eggs with Erica. I have some pics I may post later on, of that fun time we had. Me all I got was blue hands(don't ask).
The only thing that could have ruined my day (had I allowed it) was when I went to my room for a few to read. Erica came in to give me a kiss. She stood on the frame of the bed to reach me and I put my arm around her waist. She leaned back playing I pretended to let go a bit and she got scared. I was smacked right on top of my tube (OUCH)
Easter Day:
Well my day started off in the usual manner. Erica came in to show me her basket. She was so excited!! There was an Egg hunt that the church next door was holding and the complex conjoined with. So I took Erica there.
Finally not a lot to say about my pancreas. Levels are up as of Friday. Surgery on the 19th AGAIN. I have to make an appt for this week to get the results. That is all!! Hope your Easter was Great!!!!
Oh I forgot to say it is my moms Birthday today and her Twin Sisters as well Happy Birthday Mom and Aunt Doby!!
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Home and Recovering
Sorry this post is a bit late but I have not felt well lately.
Surgery was last Thursday. A week ago. Took forever to get me into surgery I was about 3-4 hours late for my scheduled time due to my surgeon having to stay in the OR longer than before because of the person before me. I finally went in I was starving and I did not know what to expect.
I woke up in recovery in a fair amount of pain. My abdomen hurt like a mother f(c*#@. Got to my room about an hour later. I then tried to sleep. That did not happen my tummy hurt so bad. I was told that the surgeons said I could go home the next day (Friday) if I was not in TOO much pain and was walking. I was up and walking 9 hours later. I walked and walked. I got stuck walking on the floor of the hosp. My abd hurt and I was dizzy. The nurse had to come get me. So I was finally able to go home on Sat afternoon. I had a decent exp there.
REPORT: Tons of Drs came in and talked to me. Dr. Schoen came in and said that I had a feeding tube in place because Dr Shah (Gi guy) wants access. I have 2 stents in my ducts now allowing fluid to drain properly. Oddly not once did they take my labs while in Denver. I have had labs drawn here 2x since. Well I am anemic, I have been for 2 mos tho now. I have elevated levels again. Now one of them is almost the highest it has been since I started this whole mess in the first place. Which brings me to the conclusion that the pain I have been dealing with that I THOUGHT it was the drain tube is not that at all. It is my pancreas still.
I have a repeat surgery on the 19th. I will be in and out that day. This one is to remove the 2 stents I do have and likely place more in diff areas. I have the tube in for 7 more weeks. UGH this is already old.
This post is getting long nuff I am sure you don't want to read anymore nor do I want to type anymore. Happy Easter Y'all...
Surgery was last Thursday. A week ago. Took forever to get me into surgery I was about 3-4 hours late for my scheduled time due to my surgeon having to stay in the OR longer than before because of the person before me. I finally went in I was starving and I did not know what to expect.
I woke up in recovery in a fair amount of pain. My abdomen hurt like a mother f(c*#@. Got to my room about an hour later. I then tried to sleep. That did not happen my tummy hurt so bad. I was told that the surgeons said I could go home the next day (Friday) if I was not in TOO much pain and was walking. I was up and walking 9 hours later. I walked and walked. I got stuck walking on the floor of the hosp. My abd hurt and I was dizzy. The nurse had to come get me. So I was finally able to go home on Sat afternoon. I had a decent exp there.
REPORT: Tons of Drs came in and talked to me. Dr. Schoen came in and said that I had a feeding tube in place because Dr Shah (Gi guy) wants access. I have 2 stents in my ducts now allowing fluid to drain properly. Oddly not once did they take my labs while in Denver. I have had labs drawn here 2x since. Well I am anemic, I have been for 2 mos tho now. I have elevated levels again. Now one of them is almost the highest it has been since I started this whole mess in the first place. Which brings me to the conclusion that the pain I have been dealing with that I THOUGHT it was the drain tube is not that at all. It is my pancreas still.
I have a repeat surgery on the 19th. I will be in and out that day. This one is to remove the 2 stents I do have and likely place more in diff areas. I have the tube in for 7 more weeks. UGH this is already old.
This post is getting long nuff I am sure you don't want to read anymore nor do I want to type anymore. Happy Easter Y'all...
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Surgery is near
Well hi all. Surgery is on Thursday. 2 more days. Am I nervous?? Not really. More ready to get this over with. I hope to be in and out fast. I don't know what the recovery will be like or anything. I suppose I will call and ask in a bit. They said 3-4 days in the hosp if all goes according to plan.
Lol as I type this Erica is in the shower singing some song I have never heard. It is cute. Makes me smile. I have learned to cherish those moments. I need to start a separate blog for moments with my daughter.
I don't have a lot to say. I was put on home IV last Fri and it infiltrated Sunday. I went into the ER and they would not put a new one in. I suppose I could have called the home health nurse but she tried 3 times to stick me and dug a lot in my veins. She had to call AMR (the local ambulance company) to some put it in. They did first time and quickly.
I am out of things to write at this time so I suppose I will write more tomm before surgery if I feel the need. If not I will write more after I am home and feeling up to it.
Lol as I type this Erica is in the shower singing some song I have never heard. It is cute. Makes me smile. I have learned to cherish those moments. I need to start a separate blog for moments with my daughter.
I don't have a lot to say. I was put on home IV last Fri and it infiltrated Sunday. I went into the ER and they would not put a new one in. I suppose I could have called the home health nurse but she tried 3 times to stick me and dug a lot in my veins. She had to call AMR (the local ambulance company) to some put it in. They did first time and quickly.
I am out of things to write at this time so I suppose I will write more tomm before surgery if I feel the need. If not I will write more after I am home and feeling up to it.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Well aint this some Schitt
Today I was sitting at home not doing a lot. I suddenly get a phone call. Odd cause I was not expecting anyone to call. It was One of the Drs at my regular clinic. I thought it was strange he called specially cause he did not seem the type to call patients unless something was up.
Well something was definitely UP My Lipase and Amalayse are both up from last time. AGAIN!!! I am also still anemic. He said he wants me to go into the hospital again. For IV hydration. (I am not vomiting anymore thank the lord) Also to make sure I am NPO compliant (no food) and clear liquids only. Well a "former fat chick" can only go without food for so long. I having had the RNY do not absorb all the nutrients that I consume any ways. So that could deplete me in my vitamins and cause extra problems. I have been NPO on and off. Well liquids yes. I am not in the hospital and I do not have an IV. I am not going to deprive my body of something I am not really getting anyways.
So he tells me he wants me to go inpatient again. (He said this last Friday too.) Actually he has said this every time I have seen him. I asked him what they could do there that was not getting done here in my own home. He basically agreed with me.
I also can not leave Erica with ppl all of the time. It is hard enough asking for help with her. I don't ask because most folks treat me being sick as an "inconvience" to them. I also have some trust issues. The last 2 sitters I have had watch her have been less than a positive role model. The first one well her mom and moms bf were in prison and got out wanting to "change" they both ended up back locked up. I later found out that the girl stole my brand new camera and tried to give Erica a joint!!!The last girl lives upstairs from me and is a pot head. Now don't get me wrong I don't give a shit that someone smokes pot. Just DO NOT do it around my kid, do not offer it to her, keep your paraphernalia AWAY from her and do not be high or get high while watching her, OR let anyone AROUND her get high. She will tell me EVERYTHING.. I am NOT afraid to call whomever I need to to keep my baby safe.
I also tend to find sitters who don't play with her. Who don't watch her. Who don't entertain her. She is 6 and pretty self reliant. All I ask is for someone to PLAY with her. She is fun to play with. Give her some makeup and she will be busy for hours. She loves to draw and write. Loves to play and ride her scooter. She just wants someone to play with.
Ok I got off track!!
The Dr. wants me on IV meds. What I don't know exactly I think some antibiotics. He really wants me FULLY NPO. I think then I will have some addtl items in my bag. So I asked him about home health care. He is working tonight but will get with me later on in the am Tomm. I should have a home health care nurse come in to set up everything. He only is letting me do this cause I am an EMT. I know how to spike a bag, stop and start a line, I will likely even draw my own bloods for the nurse lol. I bet she will love that. I can also start my own line and take it out prn.
Ok I have once again typed WAY more than I wanted to. I will say G nite, God bless.
Well something was definitely UP My Lipase and Amalayse are both up from last time. AGAIN!!! I am also still anemic. He said he wants me to go into the hospital again. For IV hydration. (I am not vomiting anymore thank the lord) Also to make sure I am NPO compliant (no food) and clear liquids only. Well a "former fat chick" can only go without food for so long. I having had the RNY do not absorb all the nutrients that I consume any ways. So that could deplete me in my vitamins and cause extra problems. I have been NPO on and off. Well liquids yes. I am not in the hospital and I do not have an IV. I am not going to deprive my body of something I am not really getting anyways.
So he tells me he wants me to go inpatient again. (He said this last Friday too.) Actually he has said this every time I have seen him. I asked him what they could do there that was not getting done here in my own home. He basically agreed with me.
I also can not leave Erica with ppl all of the time. It is hard enough asking for help with her. I don't ask because most folks treat me being sick as an "inconvience" to them. I also have some trust issues. The last 2 sitters I have had watch her have been less than a positive role model. The first one well her mom and moms bf were in prison and got out wanting to "change" they both ended up back locked up. I later found out that the girl stole my brand new camera and tried to give Erica a joint!!!The last girl lives upstairs from me and is a pot head. Now don't get me wrong I don't give a shit that someone smokes pot. Just DO NOT do it around my kid, do not offer it to her, keep your paraphernalia AWAY from her and do not be high or get high while watching her, OR let anyone AROUND her get high. She will tell me EVERYTHING.. I am NOT afraid to call whomever I need to to keep my baby safe.
I also tend to find sitters who don't play with her. Who don't watch her. Who don't entertain her. She is 6 and pretty self reliant. All I ask is for someone to PLAY with her. She is fun to play with. Give her some makeup and she will be busy for hours. She loves to draw and write. Loves to play and ride her scooter. She just wants someone to play with.
Ok I got off track!!
The Dr. wants me on IV meds. What I don't know exactly I think some antibiotics. He really wants me FULLY NPO. I think then I will have some addtl items in my bag. So I asked him about home health care. He is working tonight but will get with me later on in the am Tomm. I should have a home health care nurse come in to set up everything. He only is letting me do this cause I am an EMT. I know how to spike a bag, stop and start a line, I will likely even draw my own bloods for the nurse lol. I bet she will love that. I can also start my own line and take it out prn.
Ok I have once again typed WAY more than I wanted to. I will say G nite, God bless.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Feeling like hell has wrapped me in his arms
Well since Sunday I have felt like crap. I have not been able to keep foods down. I have lost 8lbs since Sunday. Exhausted as can be. I had a phone call from my Drs today (my primary) and told them about how I am feeling. They told me to call the Drs in Denver. Either they do not know what to do or are pawning me off on them. Regardless something HAS to be done. I am sick and tired of this crap.
To top it off I am frustrated at home. I have tried to do what I can as far as keeping the house kept up and food cooked and dishes done. I am not getting anywhere it feels like. I am working for nothing. I need some help around here. I feel like I am in a rut around here.
To top it off I am frustrated at home. I have tried to do what I can as far as keeping the house kept up and food cooked and dishes done. I am not getting anywhere it feels like. I am working for nothing. I need some help around here. I feel like I am in a rut around here.
Monday, March 8, 2010
Some new info and a date!!
I got the name of my surgeon and I did some research on him. I am SOOO freaking happy!!!! He is a Bariatric Surgeon WITH Pancreatic expertise!! I am so happy. I have never seen a Bariatric Dr EVER!!! I can ask him questions and when I can eat again I know that I will be on an appropriate diet. He also has a Bariatric Nut on his team. I am FINALLY pleased that I will have a Dr who will be able to help me AND knows my anatomy!!
My Date is March 25th. I have 16 days left to go thru this crap. I have been feeling horrible the last 2 days. Holding NOTHING down and just in pain and very nauseated. It is nice to know my date. I have some meals already planned while I am gone. I will be an hour away for approx 3-4 days. I am expecting 4-5 days tho for some reason.
I will be taking some magazines, maybe my laptop, phone, charger, some pro shakes, chapstick and my pillow, and the obvious clothing and sox.
I was also told not to eat for 6 hours pre op. I think the scheduler was not thinking I am having a scope not surgery. That is what she has seen in the computer with me before. I had to make a few calls to light a match under the 2 offices to get going on my date.
Just wanted to share with you all. I am thrilled!!
My Date is March 25th. I have 16 days left to go thru this crap. I have been feeling horrible the last 2 days. Holding NOTHING down and just in pain and very nauseated. It is nice to know my date. I have some meals already planned while I am gone. I will be an hour away for approx 3-4 days. I am expecting 4-5 days tho for some reason.
I will be taking some magazines, maybe my laptop, phone, charger, some pro shakes, chapstick and my pillow, and the obvious clothing and sox.
I was also told not to eat for 6 hours pre op. I think the scheduler was not thinking I am having a scope not surgery. That is what she has seen in the computer with me before. I had to make a few calls to light a match under the 2 offices to get going on my date.
Just wanted to share with you all. I am thrilled!!
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Decision Time
Well I have told many people what my decision is. I however have not posted it on my blog. I have decided that I will go with the Lap Surgery. I want to do this in as few visits as I can. Especially since my treatment is in Denver. It is about 1:05-1:25 minutes away depending on Denver traffic and time of day. I called Dr. Shahs office on Thursday about 12:30. I got a call back about 4:30 pm and was told that they were now starting to coordinate the Surgeons schedule as well as Dr. Shahs Schedule to they both can be in the OR at the same time. The Surgeon so he can put the lap instruments in and get to the area he needs to get to and Dr Shah so he can place the stents and or splice the scar tissue if needed.
I have never met the surgeon and I don't think I will until I see him either in pre op or anest. I have already had my pre op appointment done so I should not have to do a lot but wait now. The gal I spoke with who is trying to schedule both Docs was really nice. She said she was going to TRY to get them to do the surgery on my original day. Which is Tuesday the 9th. 3 days from now. I personally do not think that will happen. However is is a slim possibility. They want to do this asap. My biggest worry is infection from this port. I do not think I will need a drain. (Gosh I hope not) my last drain was the WORST!!! That got infected despite me keeping it clean and covered. So did my bellybutton from my lap gallbladder removal. That cleared up nicely. However I will have a hole in my body that is a direct route for infection.
I will update more when I know the date.
I have never met the surgeon and I don't think I will until I see him either in pre op or anest. I have already had my pre op appointment done so I should not have to do a lot but wait now. The gal I spoke with who is trying to schedule both Docs was really nice. She said she was going to TRY to get them to do the surgery on my original day. Which is Tuesday the 9th. 3 days from now. I personally do not think that will happen. However is is a slim possibility. They want to do this asap. My biggest worry is infection from this port. I do not think I will need a drain. (Gosh I hope not) my last drain was the WORST!!! That got infected despite me keeping it clean and covered. So did my bellybutton from my lap gallbladder removal. That cleared up nicely. However I will have a hole in my body that is a direct route for infection.
I will update more when I know the date.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Went to Meet the New Dr Today
Well today was a good day. I went to Denver with my mom. We had lunch at this FANTASTIC little bakery that I used to go to since I was about 4. I have been there since but not with my mom in oh about the last 20 years. It was great to sit with her and talk. PLUS lmao she told me I did a good job eating!!! I looked at her with a confused grin on my face and she realized what she had said we got a kick out of it. A good laugh was needed. They have the best food. The most awesome pastries. It is just a great place to go.
After our early lunch we went to the University Hospital where I met with Dr. Raj Shah. He is one of the only docs in Colorado who has experience with this ERCP procedure + RNY that I need done. I have it scheduled for next Tuesday March 9th. He said there is no guarantee that they will be able to do what I need done. The tool might not be long enough. He does not know how long or small my intestines have been cut to. He also may not be able to get to the part he needs to to inject the dye needed.
The other option is more likely to be effective and they WILL be able to get to where they need to go. However it is a bit more invasive. It is done lapriscopic. Regardless I will have to be in the hospital at least overnight. 1 night with the above mentioned procedure (ERCP) IF I decided to have the lap procedure done it will be 3-4 day stay. I also will have a tube in my abdomen if done by the lap procedure. It will be there for approx 6 weeks. He said it is like a feeding tube. But the tube is really a port he said. Only because he MAY have to go in again to remove the stent or do more work. This could happen with either procedure. With either procedure I may develop chronic pancreatitis. Meaning this crap will go on forever. I will either have some stents placed so my ducts can drain what they are not draining now. OR they will just cut the scar tissue in the ducts. When the Dr came in and said that the ducts are bigger than he was told. Meaning they are outside normal on the high end. He was not expecting that. This surgery will NOT be done on the 9th like the ERCP. It will have to be coordinated with surgeons.
I asked him what he thought I should do. He said that the least invasive was he likes to do first. I then asked him what he would tell his wife or daughter or whoever he really did not give me a clear answer. He told me wither way it was up to me.
I honestly am leaning towards the lap procedure. I am deathly afraid of something getting perforated as with the ERCP thus requiring more surgery. I also don't want to go there for nothing cause it is likely he will not be able to even see what he needs to see. The Lap procedure he WILL be able to do and see what needs to be done. I already have had 2 abdominal surgeries so I know what the recovery and etc is like. I am a bit apprehensive about a port placed in my stomach. Infection and misplacement/shifting are a concern of mine.
Personally I don't want to have more crap done than necessary. I have already had nuff problems.
After my meeting the Dr. Who seemed REALLY good and explained everything I asked and my mom asked as well. It was nice to have my mommy there with me. I went to Pre op testing. I had a FULL history done and vitals. They did an EKG on me and asked me to get another one from the past to compare it too. When the Tech did my EKG she all but ran out of there and got the NP who was taking my hx. They said that my t waves were abnormal and that is why they wanted to compare it to a past one. I know my past ones were fine but this worries me a bit.
Well I have talked nuff and my fingers are getting sore. I will post my final decision when I make one.
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