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I am 3 weeks post op and praise God I have had no complications, returned to work in 2 1/2 weeks and doing great and feeling good. I am now 5 weeks post op and have fallen into the 'honeymoon' phase per Dr. Snyder. I am not hungry therefore not eating enough and not exercising enough although I returned to work full time and am running all over the place. I am on pennicillin for a bad tooth and thus this is why I am not eating. I am down 26 pounds though. I feel great even though my tooth is killing me. I am almost 5 months out and have lost 65lbs. I am a size 16 from a size 24. I had missed my 3 month post op appointment and went in a couple of weeks ago whereas I was just over 4 months. My labs were all normal except for my cholesterol was high -237. So I am off to my PCP to address that. I have been able to eat most foods and still tend to be sick if I overeat so I don't. I was told that I need to exercise more often and eat more meals with protein. Other than that, I am feeling so good I can't even describe it. My hair has been falling out and I am bummed about that but it's all a matter of time before it starts growing back. I am not going to waste my time worrying about it when I believe there isn't really much you can do about it. I am going to get some hair and nail vitamins though. I figure that could benefit me. I moved to Fort Collins in August so I am searching for Support Groups in that area. If anyone can give me some info I would appreciate it. Surgeon Info: Michael A. Snyder MD (Denver, CO) Dr. Michael Snyder is the most awesome, His knowledge, dedication and care towards Bariaric surgery is beyond anything or any other surgeon I have met or read about. The first impression I got when I met him was that I trusted him. The office staff is very structured as is the program from start to 6 weeks post op. They have answers to most questions and are very polite. Dolly, who does the insurance matters is right on top of things. Please note that Dr. Snyder takes his practice very seriously and he is very thorough. He provides a very informative packet to read at his seminar and speaks down to earth, none of that medical terminology mumbo jumbo so a person can understand every little detail, he is so educated on the subject. He always has time for questions. He is great with replying to emails or phone calls. He is very strict about the care of his patients. He makes sure they are attended to and comfortable. He checks in on them at the hospital. I had the laproscopy procedure done and I can't me more happier with the way I was treated from day 1. He also left me a beautiful tummy meaning that I didn't scar. Thank you Dr. Snyder. Your one of a kind! Insurer Info: HMO COLORADO I didn't have to deal with them. Doctor Snyder's insurance person did. From what i understand, i was approved in a day or two. I believe they have made some modifications on their policies regarding bariatric surgery. Talk to your primary doctor and get the referrals to the surgeon. Take information to your first appointment regarding your history with diets and doctors you have seen or programs you have been on for weight loss.

6/25/04-I had the gastric bypass surgery on June 2, 2004. It went fairly well and so far I have lost 33lbs. I went in to the hospital today for a swallow study (hadn't been able to keep anything down since last Sunday). I ended up staying for an EGD -- this is where the GI surgeon goes in and opens up the outlets for the stomach and small intestine when they are too small due to excessive scar tissue or over healing. That was not fun...Besides that, everything has been pretty good so far. Still very sore and very tired, but I am hoping this will soon pass! Comments About Dr. Michael A. Snyder: Dr. Snyder is an amazing man! He is very thorough in all he does. As a surgeon, he is extremely competent. He is very concerned with aftercare. He has a very pleasant, calming, and reassuring bedside manner. Thank you, Dr. Snyder!!!! Dr. Snyder's office staff are very helpful. Patrick, Dr. Snyder's PA has been very friendly and helpful also. Dr. Snyder also has a wonderful educational team set up. I have thoroughly enjoyed all the pre and post surgery classes offered by him. Connie, Kim and Sue have been very helpful in learning more about about life after surgery --- THANK YOU!! Overall, Dr. Snyder and his team have been just wonderful. I think I am really lucky to have him!

I am currently 10 months post op and have lost 85 lbs! I am off all medication and can hike the Rocky Mountains. My life is incredible. I reached my goal about 10 lbs ago and now have a BMI of 23. I wear a size 8 and often get a Small size. I am the happiest I can remember. I got a promotion at work and am now looked at with more respect. I didn't realize how my weight was holding me back in the eyes of others. Comments About Dr. Michael A. Snyder: I was impressed with Dr. Snyder's professionalism, training, and his sincerity. Not only is he a well trained physician, but he truly cares for the Obese. Over time, these impressions grew, rather than deminished. He works hard to do his best and improve his ability to take care of us. His staff is competent but not up to the professionalism that I would have expected. Future patients should know that he expects you to work as hard as he does. He wants you to know what you are getting into so you need to read, read, talk, and read some more! After care is a critical part of the plan. Without it, the surgery would not be worth it. Risks are always discussed up until the last few minutes before surgery. I believe Dr. Snyder's surgical competence is greater than his bedside manner BUT his bed side manner is terrific!

I HAVE STRUGGLED WITH WEIGHT ISSUES ALL OF MY LIFE. I AM NOW ALMOST 8 WEEKS POST OP AND I AM SO HAPPY THAT I HAD THIS DONE. I AM NOW OFF OF 7 OF THE 8 MEDICATIONS I WAS ON PRE OP AND FEEL THE BEST THAT I HAVE IN A VERY LONG TIME. I STARTED RESEARCHING WLS LAST FALL AND IN JANUARY I WENT TO A LECTURE BY DR. MICHAEL A SNYDER...WHOM I CONSIDER TO BE THE BEST..HE IS INTERESTED IN THE WHOLE PERSON NOT JUST OUR MEDICAL ISSUES. HE IS VERY THOROUGH WITH HIS EXAMINATION TO MAKE SURE THAT YOU ARE A SAFE SURGICAL CANDIDATE. Comments About Dr. Michael A. Snyder: Dr Snyder is in my opinion the best of the best. I went to his lecture in January 2004 and was able to schedule an appointment within a month of that. He is a very kind and compassionate man who did not miss his calling one bit. The office staff are also very easy to work with and never let you know if they get tired of hearing from you while waiting for your approval. I have to say that there really isn't anything that I could say I dislike about the office. Dr. Snyder is a very busy man, but you should expect that when you are going to the best. He strongly believes in aftercare. I went to nutrition classes both preop and post op. But pay attention in these classes, they are so important to your success. I am a medical assistant and so I did alot of research about the procedure and talked with other patients so I had a good idea as to what should be expected. Dr Snyder and Patrick (his PA) are both great all the way around.

Before	After

I am a 45 year old single mother with a 15 year old son, Nicholas, who is the light of my life. I work full-time and have a business as well. I have been overweight since I was nine years old. I have struggled with weight and depression all my life. I want to have this surgery so that I can be healthier and happier,and live a longer life. I have so many dreams and goals. I am going to start doing the things that I have put off for so long, because of my weight, my low self-esteem and my lack of confidence. I have started a list and I can hardly wait to start checking things off, like going jet-skiing, intertubing down a river, snow-mobiling, going to the beach in Cancun, going to Vietnam - my lifetime dream. I will do it!! July 3, 2004 I had surgery on June 29th and came home on July 3rd. My surgery went wonderfully!! I am feeling good, not on pain meds and I am so happy that I had this surgery!! The only complications were that I had a hard time coming off the ventilator after surgery and then, as a precaution, spent the night in ICU. I was moved to the surgery unit the next morning and was doing goodl. My oxygen level kept dipping, so I came home on oxygen. But, things have been going well. I have very little pain or discomfort and best of all, I can tell that I have lost weight!!! I am so happy to now be winning on the losing side and no longer losing the battle. I have the best surgeon there is, and that's all there is to it!! My surgeon is Micheal Snyder, M.D., F.A.C.S., P.C. with the Denver Center for Bariatric Surgery. Dr. Snyder performed my surgery perfectly and without complications, even though I was a difficult case, as I have a "deep abdomen." He was there bright and early every morning post-op, providing excellent follow-up care, encouragement, support and advice. His passion and compassion for bariatric patients is a thousand times more than all of the medical doctors I have even seen in my life put together, and then some. I cannot say enough about Dr. Snyder and his staff. Kim, Delamont,the nurse practioner,provided the nutrition class, runs the support group and in spite of how busy she is, she visited me twice in the hospital and offered more nutritional advice and lots of good support and care. I am looking forward to meeting with Patrick Sawyer,the Physician Assistant! The office staff is very helpful and efficient and work hard at getting approval and following up on medical tests. Rose Medical Center is the where I had my surgery and it is top notch, second only to heaven for all that they have done for me pre and post op. The staff in every department I came in contact with was professional, friendly, caring, knowledgeable and sensitive about bariatric surgery and bariatric patient's needs, and they made my stay very comfortable. This includes Nursing, Radiology, Volunteers, OR, Recovery Room, Nursing, Anesthaesiology, Pulmonary Testing, Nursing, EGB, Rose Sleep Center, (did I mention Nursing??) Admissions, Pre-op, Pulmonary, Housekeeping,Pharmacy, Business Office, Clerical. I cannot say enough about the excellent care I received from the very beginning all the way up to to discharge. (Just where did they find all those angels??!!) Will post more later. Best of luck to all who are having surgery soon!! Thanks to all of you who lent your support and sent prayers, good thoughts and best wishes my way. Can it get any better than this?? Tune in.... July 6, 2004 One week out and I am doing well!! I was sent home on oxygen and my pulmonologist said to use it only at night now. I have sleep apnea and need to wait a bit longer to use the CPAP, so this should be good for now. I have very little discomfort, hardly any pain at all. For anyone who is newly post-op and tired of regular broth, try to find a Vietnamese restaurant that has the famous Vietnamese soup, Pho. Just order the broth. It is DIVINE!! It is the best soup in the world!!!!! After three weeks, then you can have the other stuff, except for the rice noodles. I am getting my drain out tomorrow and will find out how much I lost this first week. I am anxious to find out!! I am amazed at how well I am healing and how good I feel,even though it's been nine days since I've had anything solid.(Except for Holy Communion - oops!!) Will post more later... Tami October 1, 2004 I have not posted in a long time. Things are so busy!! Some updates: I had my 3 month check-up on September 29th. I am down 81 pounds!! My labs were good, except for low potassium, but it is better than it was! I feel so good!! My BMI went from 52.9 to 41!! I have, so far, lost 40% of my excess weight. I have lost several sizes, even my shoe size and my ring size has changed! I used to wear 3X, 4X pants and 4X, 5X blouses. Now, I fit into an XL or 18 pant (with elastic waist) and a 3X blouse!! I can hardly believe it! I wore a size 10 shoe until after I had my son in 1989, then I wore an 11 or 11W. Now, I can fit into most 10Ms. What a shock!! My face is so much thinner. I actually have cheek bones!! I fit in booths at restaurants!! The seat belt no longer feels like a tourniquet!! I can bend over and not stop breathing!! I can eat just about anything, only in smaller quantities. I feel so happy about this, that I rarely even want to eat something that is not a good choice. I have grown to love beef jerky, string cheese and yogurt! I can drink ice water all day long, it is my favorite drink. I don't even miss Diet 7-up on the rocks. I drink Isopure protein drinks - they taste kind of like Kool-aid. I still don't like the other opowder protein drinks. I have only gotten sick a few times, when I took that last one little bite. I love my pouch!! I am becoming so much more healthy. I am off my blood pressure meds (2 per day), off the med for acid reflux, off the NSAID for bursitis in my hip (and the pain is gone, too!) I am using a treadmill and trying to get in 30 min. every other day. I will boost that up and either join Curves, or buy a home exercise set for my son and I. I feel better about myself. That dreaded feeling that was always just under the surface, about losing weight "some day," and about getting things "under control," is almost gone now. Instead of feeling the dread, I feel excited. I am excited because I have a future that won't be lived as a morbidly obese, grotesque, disgusting person that I felt like I was all these years. If I use my tool the right way, I will continue losing weight, feeling better and looking better. I am so happy I made this decision. No matter how hard it is sometimes, it is still better than living the hell that I have lived for so long. Next to having my son, it is the BEST thing that has ever happened to me. I may grow to like myself, learn to treat myself better, start to take good care of myself. These are some of my goals. So many people in my life are so supportive, encouraging and caring. They are there with me, cheering me on, and my doctor, Dr. Michael Snyder, is the best cheerleader of all! He is incredible, highly skilled, caring, compassionate and the best surgeon there is. He saved my life and has given it back to me. How much luckier can I be?? Good luck to all of you who are reading this and contemplating having the surgery. I am so glad I finally let myself look into it and dare to take the steps that would make it a reality. I will never regret my decision. I have my life back. I am on my way. And, nothing is gonna stop me now.... Tami January 25, 2005 It has been WAY too long since I last updated. I have so much good news to share. I am nearly 7 months out and I am down 125 pounds!!! I started at 359 and now weight 234 pounds! IT IS A MIRACLE!!!! I can hardly believe it's me, when I look in the rear view mirror when I'm driving, or when I put on size 18 pants, down from 28s, 30s and 32s. I can fit in booths and walk up bleachers at my son's games, even in front of people!!! I can wear sweaters, cute clothes, and not feel so ashamed and so embarrassed if anyone, ANY ONE looks at me!! People who see me are shocked and surprised and SO happy for me! I am SO happy! It is the BEST thing that has EVER happened to me, except for the birth of my son!!! I did not feel any hunger until just recently. I am eating most regular things, but I watch and am careful about what I eat, low fat, low carbs, high protein, and tons of water!!! I just love ice water, don't even miss Diet 7-Up. Just make sure I have ice!! I have fallen in love with Hoods Carb Countdown juice, Pineapple, Orange, Banana. I put it in a blender with a few frozen strawberries and 1/2 of a banana and some ice, and it makes the best smoothie in the world! My favorite treat! (Splenda is spendid!!) I have been so busy, working two jobs, single mother, and all that shopping!! I finally wised up and now shop at thrift stores. But, I buy so much at the thrift stores, so many cute clothes, I have run out of room in my closets!!! My son told me not to buy any more clothes until I lose more weight. We have no more hangars!! I have NEVER had so much fun buying clothes. I used to dread it and just ended up buying the thing that I looked least horrible in and that fit; it was usually black or very plain, dark. Now, my favorite colors for clothes are purples, lavenders, magenta, fuschia, pinks and mauves!!! It is a whole new world! And it is true, people treat you differently, they look AT you, not through you. They notice me, not because of my weight or because they are disgusted, but because I am more normal, I am me! I totally feel more human. It is sad to admit, but it is so true. For so long, I felt so bad about myself, so ashamed, so ugly and disgusting. That is how I truly felt. Now, I feel more like I am "okay," like I fit in, like I am "good enough..." Things have been hard,though, at times. I have had mood swings and some tough times. But, all the while, I have continued to lose wieght. That has made the harder times so much easier. I have had unending support and encouragement from my surgeon, Dr. Michael Snyder, and from his assistant, his staff, and from our support group network here in Denver. The Denver Center for Bariatric Surgery is TOP NOTCH, from the first time you call the office, the first time you meet Dr. Snyder at the seminar, to the day of surgery. And, the post-op program is more incredible than I ever imagined. They are there, Dr. Snyder, his staff, the nurse practitioner, Kim Delamont, all along the way, cheering us along, and yet, ever present to offer medical advice, suggestions, and support. I feel so fortunate to have this team, along with the support group members, to lead the way and guide me through, especially during the tough times. This Saturday, I am going to the First Annual Bariatric Ball, a gala event for bariatric patients here in Colorado. I can hardly wait. I am going to get totally dressed up, with a sparkly long dress and dangly earrings and with my hair done. I will dance the night away... And, for the first time in my life, I won't be feeling so fat and so ugly and so undeserving to have a good time and feel good about myself. I will feel special, and maybe, even pretty... That is what Gastric Bypass Surgery has done for me. All this, and SO MUCH MORE!!! I feel that I am truly on my way to becoming the "me" that I have always wanted to be, to become the me who has always "been," but who has been buried , under all that danting weight. Thank God for Bariatric Surgery. Thank God for Dr. Snyder. Thank God... February 16, 2005 I just sent in a new photo for my profile. It was taken January 29, 2005, at the Bariatric Ball. It was the first time I have been so dressed up since my wedding day in August 1980. I wore a size 20 dress!! I could hardly believe it fit! Hundreds of bariatric patients in the Denver area attended the First Annual Bariatric Ball, sponsored by Denver Bariatrics Support, a new non-profit group founded by my surgeon, Dr. Michael Snyder. We had a blast!! How fun it was to get all dressed up in a sparkly gown and feel pretty. I can't remember the last time I ever felt pretty!! This morning, I weighed 223 pounds!!! I just recalculated my BMI. It is down from 53 to 32.9!!! How great is that??)&%#&#! I continue to lose and try my best to get in my protein and water. There are days where I am so busy I don't get it all in, but I always try! I am doing well, but my next step is to join a gym. Walking on a treadmill is great and convenient, but I need to do more. I have a lot of loose skin that I need to do my best to firm up, and I am committed to do more exercise as I enter my 8th month of post-op. I want to lose a total of 200 pounds. I am 68% (2/3)of the way there. How lucky I am. How great I feel! How nice it is to feel healthier, to have more energy, to look and feel better every day. No more heartbrun, acid reflux, no more bursitis pain, no more chafing rashes or sweating all the time. How nice it is to wear skirts and dresses to work and to church and to be told how nice I look and how pretty my clothes are. How nice it is not to be stared out because of my size, but to be looked at because I look nice. It is truly a whole different world out here. I am so glad that I finally looked into this surgery and did something about my weight, about my health, about my life. To anyone who might be reading this, if you have ever felt that dread, that horrible feeling of hopelessness and helplessness about your weight, wondered how are you ever going to do something about it, once and for all, PLEASE STOP. Stop what you're doing right now. Please stop for a moment and really think about this surgery. Consider Gastric Bypass Surgery. For me, it is the only thing that has ever really worked. How many diets, how many times I've starved myself, worked and worked at eating less, exercising more, lost weight only to gain it back, and always more weight, time and time and time again. The years of feeling like a failure, feeling out of control, never full, always with a hole in my gut, needing to eat, to feel full, to fill the emptiness, to stop the hunger, stop the pain. Today, I am in control. I feel full. I have to remember to eat sometimes. The feeling of hunger comes and goes, like a normal person. I feel satisfied. When I am hungry, it is physical, not emotional. I can now say that I eat to live. And THAT says it all... March 6, 2005 I have sent my updated photo in and it hasn't been added to my profile yet. I emailed it again. I am surprised still, when I see my picture, or look in a mirror, or try on size 18's and they fit!! It is hard to get used to the fact that I have lost this much weight and am still losing weight. It is truly a whole different world. Yesterday, I stopped by a thrift store and tried on some size 16s, because a lot of my pants are baggy, especially in the legs. What a wonderful feeling to be looking at 16s and large or X-large, after being in super sizes for so long. Even some of my X large blouses are looking baggy. I never used to mind wearing baggy clothes, because they hid all my fat. Now, it looks really sloppy when things are baggin' on me, and it feels uncomfortable. I really notice how much more important it is to me to dress nice, to look nice. You cannot believe the comments I hear from people, and I mean, ALL THE TIME!!! It is awesome. If I feel bad, I just need to be around people, especially those who haven't seen me in a while. They say things like, "Hey skinny, what happened to the rest of you?" Or, "Hi, OH MY GOD!! LOOK AT YOU!! YOU LOOK WONDERFUL!!!" Even people who hardly ever spoke to me before say things like that. It feels SO nice. It feels great to get noticed, not for how big and fat I am, but because I look better, I actually look (dare I say it??) prettier!! Again, if you are reading this and you have shared these sad, painful moments in your life, being the biggest one in the room, always discouraged when you have gone up yet another size, feeling like you don't fit in, you don't belong, you can't participate -- in sports, in social activities, in life itself, please consider Gastric , for my self. Not only am I haelthier in SO many ways, but I feel so much better. I have energy, I don't sweat buckets every time I do something,like shopping or house cleaning. I feel happier and more like a human being. I really do. The thinner I get, the more I realize how limited I was, how much my weight stopped me from participating in and enjoying things, even just little things, like being in a restaurant and not feeling worried that people were thinking, "Good God, what are you doing here, as if you need to eat a thing!!" I could go on and on about how much better my life is. I am so very, very glad that I looked into this surgery and felt it was right for me. I still have a long way to go. I have a lot of changes to make, especially in my thinking, about myself, about food, and about life, in general. My years and years of being heavy and depressed and feeling so bad about myself have taken such a toll. I have a lot of work to do, a lot of changes to make. But, I am doing it. I am working on these things so that I will NEVER have to drown my sorrows in a bag of potato chips or a box of candy. I am learning to deal with my feelings in more healthy, positive ways, that will really make a difference, will allow me to reolve issues instead of stuffing them and eating to cover up or ease the pain. Yes, it is hard to deal with the pain. It is much harder than grabbing a sandwich and swallowing hard to try to forget the misery. But, it is worth it. I have been in therapy for the past seven and a half years with a wonderful therapist that has helped me tremendously. I don't think I would be here today if it weren't for her. I could not have gotten to the point where I made this decision to have surgery if not for the great amount of help, support and guidance I have received from her. She has been a very important part of my life since May 1997, right before my divorce. I have seen here on a regular basis and have benefitted greatly from her support. I thank God that he brought me to her. It has made all the difference in the world. I know my weight and self-esteem issues have been problems since I was a child. She has helped me to understand myself and my behavior so that I could make the changes needed to get on with my life, so that I could be both healthier and happier. Our work together led me to look into this surgery and see what I could do about my weight problem, once and for all, before it was too late. I was tired of suffering, I was tired of not have the power to make weight loss work. I wanted so badly to get control of my weight. After my research, I learned that Gastric Bypass Surgery is exactly what it was going to take for me to succeed. Thank you, Dr. Fox, from the bottom of my heart. Without you, I would have continued to live that life so full of misery, heartbreak, loneliness and despair. Now, I am on my way to a healthier, happier, fuller life with opportunities and experiences that before, I could only dream about. How can I ever thank the person who stood by me, during the worst times of my life and still helped me, reaching out during the dark nights of the soul, holding on, encouraging, guiding, rescuing, teaching, challenging, providing hope when there wes none... Dr. Fox, you are my true life saver. Thank God for you!! Michael A. Snyder MD (Denver, CO) I was very impressed when I first saw Dr. Snyder at the seminar. He is a very compassionate doctor with a neat sense of humor. I immediately liked him and knew I made the right choice. His office staff is very busy, yet, they are pleasant. They are helpful and caring. I have learned, over the past several months, that Dr. Snyder is the best surgeon for wls in the state. Insurer Info: Anthem BC/BS The only problem with Anthem BC/BS was that, at first, they told me my benefits had changed as of the renewal date of 6/1/04 and that they would only cover $7500 of the surgery and I would have to choose a different doctor and go to a different hospital. This was wrong, as the state health insurance contract is always from January 1 to December 31. I just needed to let them know that they were wrong. They straightened it out in a few days. Everything was approved.

Before

I don't ever remember not being fat. My very earliest memories of my life are of a round little me. But I think the worst part about it is when those bad habits and the mean fat genes are inherited by your kids. It hurts a lot more watching them fight the same battles. There is some good in it all though. It makes you a bit more humble and a lot more compassionate. I believe that. I like to take those things and use it to help those who want it, teach those who want to learn and love those who just aren't ready yet. Everyone needs a friend..ya know? Comments About Dr. Michael A. Snyder: Two words come to mind when I remember meeting Dr. Snyder for the first time. Confident and Compassionate. He was confident in himself and in his very special talents and knowledge - just the type of surgeon you want! And compassionate to those of us who so easily read the eyes of others. Over time, my instincts proved true. Dr. Snyder's office staff have always been very helpful and available for anything I needed. If there was anything to like least about Dr. Snyder, um, that would have to be that he is just too busy to spend all his time on ME! Seriously, my experience was that he truly wants the best for each of his patients. He and his staff maintain a professional but friendly relationship with patients. Next to seeing that your health is top priority, each patient is assured that their dignity is upheld. I've personally recommended several individuals to Dr. Snyder. I have no doubt that my family and friends will be treated with the utmost respect and care with Dr. Snyder. The aftercare is equally important as the surgery to Dr. Snyder. This is not a group that collects their fees and waves bye bye. The aftercare is part of the process, making sure everything is progressing as it should. The aftercare is very organized and exact in the expectations he has of you. He always welcomes communication even after 16 months! I like to email a picture now and then! I've actually shared my paperwork from Dr. Snyder from before, during and after surgery issues. Everything was covered. No circumstance was omitted. The surgery, the risks and benefits and after care were all outlined fully. If you can't tell by now, I have to admit I would rate Dr. Snyder excessively high. One thing that assured me that my beliefs were correct was that the nurses at the hospital seemed to have a great respect for him. I think that says a lot. I truly believe Dr. Snyder's competence is outstanding. His 'bedside manner' is wonderful. Both! All of the above! If I ever need another surgery, I hope Dr. Snyder can be the one to do it. Thanks!

Before

I have been over weight all my life. I think there will be hope for me yet. Time will tell I'm sure. 08/01/03 Well I'm still in the process. Had a disapointment because I had an Apt. to see the Doc on 7/30, but he had to leave town on some busness. So we now are rescheduled for 8/28, seems like moons away, but since I Drive a big truck for a living with my Man, in all 48 states we are limited in flexability. I'm sure it will all work out. Tue evening we attended a Nutrition class that PA Patrick Sawyer put together, it was vary informative. Wed afternoon we did get to go see the psycologist, that went well I think. Was more relaxed then I had anticipated. I think she wanted to see how much I knew about the surgry and life changes it intails. 7/31 We went to the support group had a good time, and was good to see the success many of the folks are experencing after the surgry. The meeting was titled Support the Support Group. Beth did a vary good job. There were like 70+ people in attendence. Nice turn out I thought. We had suprise guests show up it was Doc Snyder, and his PA Patrick Sawyer. What a treat that was, they are vary personable and answered many questions from the group. I felt it showed there passion as a team to help us Big folks get back to health, afterall it was there spare time. Well I've rambeled on enough must go for now. I'm just a step further on my jorney. May God Keep and Bless All. 8/29/03 Hello again. I have come to the conclusion this jorney is not a fast moving ordeal. We ( Hoyt, my man & I ) were to go see Doctor Snyder on Thru 8/28. Wed eve we got a call from his office telling us Doc had to leave for a family emergency. Now we have and appt. for 11/05. Third time is a charm. The office is sincerely trying to work with us and did say if we come back thru Denver on a Wed or Thru, before Oct. they would work us in some how. I did go to the Pulmonary Doc and then she ordered a Echo Cardio Gram, I got that taken care of also. We did go to support on Thru. That was a good time. 11/05/03 Good deal, we got to go see the Doc today. He said I had a 98% chance of having my surgery done Lapersopicly. Now we just have to see what the Insurance Co has to say. 01/26/04 Well Doctor sent the first letter to the Insurance and I was denied so now I have to do an appeal. I can't lay down so quickly. I finnly got my teeth done and now onto the next step. Good deal today we called BCBS, they said that Hoyt my (Better half) got approved ye hah!!!! 4/2/04 It's been awhile since I've updated my progress. GOOD NEWS I've been approved for surgery!! Dolly the gal that handles Insurance thru Dr. Snyder's office submitted an appeal letter, and it took the Insurance board 30 days but they did approve it. My thanks to Dolly for all her help. I do have an a tentive date of June 1, 2004. update more when it's concrete. One step closer. 5/28/04 I made it home just in time to do my Pre-op apt. On the 26th of May 2004. Surgery is on for the 1st of June,2004. Went to Connie's nutritional class today. It was a vary informative class. Three more days to the next step. A little nervous but doing good. On the 27 we went to support group. They are such a help and confort. I would encorage anyone looking into this type of proceedure to find themselves a support group and participate. 6/7/04 Good Morning! My how time flies. I am doing real well and feeling pretty good too. Just a little week and tire quickly. My Surrey went as planned June 1.2004 at 10:30 am. The surgery lasted approx. 1 1/2 hrs. The next thing I remember is waking up in My room. Oh, that first walk was pretty wobbly and scary. Didn't make it real far, to the hall. Second walk made it a little further down the hall but certainly not far. Next day woke up to some very friendly faces not feeling to bad. Thank goodness for Hoyt (My partner) & Dan (My Brother, flew to Denver CO. from OH) for all there continuing help and support. They are such a blessing to me. They are my rah rah team at hand. I thank the Lord for them daily. I have tons of support from all parts of the country, lots of family and friends, You are all appreciated and needed. I am very grateful for each and every one of you! When the nurses came in they said I could take a shower if I wanted to. I said of course so they unhooked my IV and plastic wrapped my ports. I managed to get a couple of walks in the length of the hallway, breathing exercises, and 1oz ice chips per hr. Then it was off the radiology to see if I had any leaks. NOTE: Sip the barium. The barium was nasty but doable in small Quantities. Good news NO LEAKS! So they promoted me to clear liquids. Oh 2 Blues (Jell-O) a day. (Not gourmet). 1oz of intake per hr. total of 6 walks for the day. Achieved all those goals, catheter was also removed. IV was stopped about mid day. Second day was more of the same but they added protein shakes, and was to do liquids in 1oz shots as often as I could but 1oz of shake every 15 min. Did all the walking, breathing exercises, and drinking. Did well. Third morning Dr. Snyder woke me up at 7 am and asked if I'd like to go home. I said certainly. He said the Nursing Staff said I was doing "phenomenal"! What Good news! He checked me out and said he saw no problems and that I could go home. What a deal! I was out of the hospital by 10:30 am. I was very pleased with the accommodations at Rose Medical. My experience was Very Good. They are set up for "BIG" people. 6/16/04 Hello, It's been 2 wks already. At the 1wk DR apt. they removed my JP drain, not the most pleasant thing to experience but not real painful either. Good news is I lost 14lbs. what a deal. Still on liquids for 1 more wk. I've been able to take 45min walks and do some things around the house too. Feeling real good. The protein shakes that I've chosen a Atkins Advantage premixed and 2 scoops of pro blend 55 powder with 4oz of 1% milk mixed then do 4oz 4 times a day gives me 75g of protein a day. Getting eager to go back to work again. 7/29/04 Mercy how time flies. I've had my 6wk checkup all seems to be well I'm down 46# since Surgery. What a deal. I've been trying to become more disciplined with exercise. Trying to do walking and stretching. I never have been one to do a lot of structured exercise. I'm feeling good and trying to eat food which can be a chore. I think it's all trial and error at this point. 9/3/04 Hello again, I just had my 3 month check up. All is well. DR said all my blood work looked real good. Feel really good with lots of energy. I'm down to 234# that's 83# since I started this journey and 57# since surgery. Simply amazing. Food is getting easier but still pretty touchy on some things. Nuts stay down well. Ground beef seams to work and some chicken too. I do believe it's one of the best things I've ever done. 1/3/05 It�s been six months since surgery. All is well. I�m down to 216# and feeling wonderful. Had wonderful Holidays . Did a lot of entertaining and was not as difficult as I had anticipated . With some research it is quite amazing what you can serve that is tasty and acceptable to our life style too. Not a big fuss was made and it all flowed as usual and everyone was happy. Hope all had a wonderful Christmas and will have a Happy and Prosperous New Year. Michael A. Snyder MD (Denver, CO) Very Thorough and disciplined. Was very informative and knowledgable on all the different conditions and side effects that may and maynot accure. Straight forward on everything, epecally if you ask. Friendly & helpful. Extremely busy. Vary Good His way or the highway! He has a good reason for everything he asked you to do. If you don't understand why just ask him why. Strongly advises aftercare. He belives it is a large % of your sucessfullness. He really wants you to suceed to your goal. Yes a very structured program. Laid them all out at the first seminar. Very Good & Thorough. Both I felt where Great Insurer Info: BCBS of NE I did not have any problems with them they just have a certain process that all the paperwork goes through. My appeal took 30 days. I did call and check on it several times. The reception was plesent.

My first contact with Dr. Snyder was through email. To my surprise he answered me within 24 hours and on a weekend. I was already scheduled for surgery with another surgeon but when my primary care talked to me he insisted that I needed to see Dr. Snyder before I had surgery. So after my initial contact with Dr. Snyder I headed off for his seminar. Again to my surprise there were about 300 people in attendance. The other sugeons I had interviewed only had about 10-15 people at theirs. This peaked my interest. Then after hearing the passion in his voice and his personal story as well as the personal stories of his actual patients, I knew I had to have a consultation with him. Since I was already approved by my insurance company my appointment was scheduled within a week of The seminar. After meeting with him for the first time one on one, I knew he was the one for me. The difference between Dr. Snyder and all the other surgeons I had see before was that Dr. Snyder listened to me and actually cared about what was happening to me. He made me feel comfortable and he explained everything in terms I understood. His passion for the work he does really makes him a one of a kind. His staff follows his lead in every way. Although he has hundreds maybe even thousands of patients he always made me feel I had his full attention and I am important to him. He is very organized and his before and after care programs really help in preparing someone for the surgery. You are never alone when you are part of the Denver Bariatric Community. I would reccomend to anyone considering Bariatric surgery that you owe it to yourself to at least meet with him once. I did and it enriched my life beyond my dreams.

I am really nervous about my insurance company not covering my surgery. This is something that I want to have done with all my heart and this time it is for me. Comments About Dr. Michael A. Snyder: I have attended Dr Snyder's seminar and he is Wonderful. I have had my first meetign with Dr Snyder and he said that I am an ideal candidate for surgery and now the process has started.

My consultation with Dr. Snyder was March 5th, 2004. I have finished all of the required tests and evaluations prior to visiting him. I have been working out and building up my strength for a speedy recovery. His office put me at ease right away. It started with chairs that were big and comfortable. They had arms on them and they didn't squeeze my thighs together. My husband was wonderful by coming in with me and was surprised when he even asked some questions. March 13, 2004 Only 6 more days before I can call the Dr's office. It has been 5 months waiting for the visit and the waiting for the insurance approval is much worse. Everything is not in my control now. I can just pray and have faith that since I am convinced I am doing the right thing that things will fall into place for me. I have 3 other friends going through this journey with me so we have our own little support group. March 20, 2004 Had a little scare today. Dolly called from Dr. Snyder's office. She does the insurance and thought that I was a part of Anthem/BCBS new policy that starts April 1st and wanted to get us fast tracked through. We all got scared, but I called and after some prodding found out that was just for new members and renewals on or after April 1st, so we were excluded until 1/1/05. I guess we chose the right time to get this done. Unfortunately, Dolly called again because the insurance wouldn't give more than 30 days of authorization and I had to have a date the end of May so my mother could be here to be my Angel. So we wait until April 26th. We set the date for May 26th and the great part is my best friend Julia is having hers right after me on the same day. March 26th, Two months to go until surgery. My other 2 friends who are on this journey with me got their date yesterday. They have theirs on May 5th. They have the same insurance I have so they have to wait until after April 5th to find out if they are approved. Dolly says we have nothing to worry about, but until it is official we are all on pins and needles. We had a group prayer today. My inspiration for all of this, my friend Michelle has gone through her P.S and she is doing well, but she says she feels "sewn up". April 15th, All of us at work are pretty somber. We lost a great gal. She was nice and comical and she will be missed alot! The funeral for her was today. Then we all had a Support group meeting to go to. We have been going pretty consistently every two weeks since our Seminar in November 2003. Although we were feeling bad about losing our friend, the two that are having their surgeries on May 5th got their approval from the insurance and now we count down to their date. I don't think any of us are doing very good with dieting before our surgeries. We are walking and working out, but we have had to get the last of everything we won't have anymore. So far I think we really enjoyed the Cheesecake Factory. Julia and I are feeling pretty confident that we will be getting approved. We should find out soon. April 24th, 2004 Just realized today that we should find out if we are officially approved next week. I am having little panic attacks, nothing major.. just little fast palpitations every time I think of what I am doing. I know I am doing the right thing, but there are risks. I have considered them all but the thought of leaving my husband alone scares the heck out of me. I just don't feel like I have a choice. My future does not look good when most of my family is overweight and having health problems. I don't want all the money I earn for my retirement going towards prescriptions when I am older just to stay alive. I want to be healthy and fit now. NOTE - I started telling our close friends at work last week and they were unbelievably supportive. They were scared, but I am so grateful I have such a great group of folks surrounding me with love. I guess I better tell the appropriate people in H.R next week so we can get the paperwork done there for my time off work. So much to do and the time is going so fast now. To think, I was complaining before. :-) April 30 Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to share their very heart warming thoughts with me since I have opened up my profile and shared my date. The folks on this site are the best! The four of us that are going through this journey together had our last big meal together last night. I had a great time. Two of our little group will be having their surgery May 5th. We shared our hopes and fears and prayed together. I thank Pam whose prayers are so eloquently spoken that I am grateful when she doesn't mind sharing the experience with me. I want to be there for them, but sometimes at a loss of what to do. I hope they know how much I love them and cannot wait to greet them when they are through their surgery. I feel so blessed to have our little foursome. Thank you girls!!! May 9th, 2004 Mother's Day Happy Day to all the Mother's out there! Well two of my dearest friends went through their surgery just great last wednesday (May 5th). They are both resting at home now. I am so happy for them and am praying for a speedy recovery. They are suffering from head hunger, but I am sure when they get to experience the weight loss that will diminish. My best friend and I have only 15 days left to go through ours. I am so excited. People keep asking me if I am nervous and I can't say that I am. I am sure I will be. Talk to ya all later May 25th, 2004 Well, I have surgery tomorrow. I am a little nervous. I have been planning this for months and now that it is here, it just doesn't feel real. I am a little fuzzy headed from just doing liquids for the last 2 days. This was hard but it is a battle I am gonna win. I am also feeling excited. I cannot tell you what it has meant to me to have so many people write me their well wishes and send me their prayers on my support page. Thank you all. I want to especially thank my family and friends who have been there for me in every way that I have needed them. I will write when I get home and I am officially a part of the losing side. May 30th, 2004 I MADE IT! I am on the losing side. My best friend and I had our surgeries the same day and we both came out ok. We have the best surgeon. We have followed all his directions and are doing well. My only complaint is the bloating from gas that I have experienced. I was not able to walk it all off. It is getting better. I ended up coming home on oxygen because the gas pain caused me to take shallow breaths. I hope to be off of that soon, now that I am breathing better. I just learned today that you are not to breathe with your mouth if you are on oxygen because that only makes the gas worse. I have been up every couple of hours walking at least for 10 minutes. I also walked down to the corner and back to get my exercise in. I have drank so much liquid today that I feel like I am squishy. :-) But I feel good! Will update again after my first post op visit? Thank you to everyone who has written some very thoughtful notes to me. If anyone has any questions, please feel free to email me. June 3rd, 2004 I had my first visit post op with the Dr. today and my weigh in was incredible. I lost 21.4 lbs in my first week. That made a lot of the pain and suffering worthwhile. I couldn't believe it. I was graduated to the next stage and immediately went to Taco Bell for the pintos and cheese. My friend who went thru this with me and I split it and still had some to take home. It is very strange how easy I get full now. It is sometimes hard because you miss the foods you cannot have, but you just have to remember what got you here and it gets you back into perspective. I want to be healthy more than having food I have had over and over all of my life. I have had my share and should be able to give it up now for my life. Hope all is well with all of you. June 11th, 2004 I don't have much to add because I haven't been to my 3 week visit yet. I go this friday the 18th, but I figured I was here I would stop by and give a little update. I am feeling great and getting around pretty well. I get on the treadmill a couple of times a day to get some exercise in and am doing a lot of walking around town (shopping) :-) I hope all is well with you. Take Care June 16th, 2004 Hi Everyone! I went to my 3 week Nutritional class today.. required by Dr. Snyder. They do a weigh in at the beginning of class and I lost another 4.2lbs. That gives me about a 25.6 total is 3 weeks. Although 4 pounds didn't seem enough for two weeks I have to remember that all together I lost more than I have at Weight Watchers in 6 months. I have to realize that this is not magic. I did discover that if you eat/drink too much protein that it can actually inhibit weight loss. I thought the more the better so I was drinking 75 grams and eating another 20 or so per day. If you exercise more than it is okay because you burn off the extra calories of protein, but at this stage I am only getting in about 30-40 minutes of walking per day. I have my 3 week dr's appt on Friday. Will report more then. June 18th, 2004 Well, I went to the dr's today and got on the scale and officially lost another 3.6lbs since Wed. It is amazing. I was able to start on pureed foods on wed. and was worried now that I was eating more I would hit a plateau, but actually I guess I took in less calories and since eating food my body had to burn more calories to digest it or something. I was excited. I was cleared to go swimming and do my Nautilus workout again so I know between getting my liquids and my protein and working out more that I could lose more at the next visit. I have 3 more weeks to try and lose another 10lbs. My goal was to lose 40 pounds before going back to work. It is very motivating to know that I could actually get there. I got together with our little group of four that went through this together. We went to Starbucks for some decaf sugar free drinks and had a great time talking about our experiences and what we have been eating. One of us has the misfortune of having to get scoped because she closed up. They had to dilate her. Although I am glad she got it taken care of I felt so bad for her. She suffered for 10 days throwing up anything and everything she ate and it had gotten so bad she couldn't hold down her protein drink. By the time she got into the dr's office she was dehydrated and had no energy whatsoever. Just a little advice to any of you out there.. if that happens to you, do not hesitate... CALL YOUR Doctor!!! I am glad now she feels lots better and she looks good too. My goal weight I found out today is 145lbs. I have lost 20% of my excess weight. It sounds like a long way to go, but I have faith that I will get there.. especially with the wonderful support that I have from my family and friends. I thank god for our little group every day. If any of you need some support, please do not hesitate to email. I will gladly share what I have been blessed to receive. Good Night! July 8th, 2004 I am so excited. I had my 6 week dr.s appt yesterday and I am at a total of 39.2lbs. I wanted to lose 40lbs by the time I went back to work and I go back in 10 days. I am so close. Workouts are great. My best friend and I go together and we do about and hour, including treadmill, nautilus and aqua aerobics. We did notice that our strength isn't what it used to be before surgery, but it is building back up. Her and I feel a little guilty because we went to our last nutrition class and we are not having any problems like the other girls were having. We are now on the journey to solid foods and trying not to drink with our meals. This will be the tough part. Any advice from anyone is welcome, please email. Thanks Dawn August 8, 2004 Oh my gosh, A whole month since I updated. I am so sorry. Well, I am back to work full time. So far, it is going pretty well. I am down about 55 pounds and I am very excited. I was jumping up and down when I didn't have to move the big weight on the dr's scale to 250 anymore. I have crossed my legs for the first time without thinking and giggled myself silly. I haven't had any problems. I haven't even thrown up at all which surprises me since I hear that a lot from others. I am doing my best to get my protein in and sometimes I can only get to 40 grams. I have water all the time and have no problem getting at least 48 oz. of water in. I am still working out with my best friend and we are kicking butt. I will be going into size 20 here soon, so if anyone out there has anything cute, send it my way. I am going to be starting a support group in Longmont, Co. soon. I am hoping that keeps me honest. It is a long way to drive to get to one now and I think support group is a must. God Bless to you all. I will write again soon. P.S. My other two friends that did this too are looking so wonderful. All four of us are very happy with our decision. August 13 2004 Hi all! Just wanted to update. I am down 58 pounds, it will be 12 weeks on the 18th. Things were a little slow last week, but I didn't work out in over a week. It has been hard working full time and working out among all the other things that have to be done. I am feeling great and hope you all are feeling the same. I am going to lead a support group starting Sept. 7th in Longmont. Support group really helps for long term success. Sept 19 2004 I cannot believe it has been a month since I updated. I have lost almost 75lbs now. I am half way there and it has only been 4 months. It is hard to not get impatient because you want it to go as fast as it does in the beginning. I am having trouble finding the time to work out, but getting back on track. I even joined the fitness center at work for the days that I am stuck in town near there. The support group was great. I am really enjoying meeting everyone. We had a couple of newbies show up and we are cheering them on. Thanks to the girls at Avaya for making it feel more like a group. We want to start a clothing exchange. I am loving my garden because now I am harvesting the fruit of my labor and not breathing hard like last year. I can move so easily now. I can cross my legs too. My husband is really enjoying the weight loss and me being able to move so well.. if you know what I mean. Sex is much more enjoyable. I have not thrown up once through all of this time. I can only pray that everyone does as well with no side effects. Hope everyone is doing well and if I can help in anyway, please be sure to email me. Take Care. p.s. Went in for my 3 month doctor visit on Sept. 8th and was down 48% of EBW and my blood work came back excellent. Patrick said I was doing awesome! October 1st, 2004 I think it has been about 4 1/2 months and I have lost 80lbs!! I cannot get over it. I am loving it. It isn't easy, but so worth it. The results are enough to keep you working at it. I have two more friends at work that have been recently approved and will go thru surgery in October. I am looking forward to cheering them on. I am lucky that I have 3 others friends to share clothes. It could get expensive otherwise. We have our 3rd support group this next week and am hoping that one of our members is able to make it. She has surgery a couple weeks ago and I am anxious to see how she is doing. All of our group are looking fabulous. We smile a lot too! Take care November 12, 2004 It has been awhile since I posted. I hadn't realized how much fun I must be having that time is flying by. Well, I think it has been about 6 months and I am down 94lbs. I hit the 200 mark on the scale. I wanted to lose a hundred pounds by Christmas and I think I may just make it. I lived through a month long plateau. That was hard to not get discouraged. I sure did drop the sizes though. I have just bought a pair of pants that are a size 14. I was shocked when they went on. I haven't been there since I was a teenager. I am tickled. I am planning on going to Michigan to see my grandma. She will be very happy for me and I canmot wait to make her smile. My mom and dad are living with her right now to care for her so it will give me a chance to see them and thank them for taking care of me after surgery. I have been co-leading a support group in Longmont Colorado and I very much enjoy it. We have a great group! I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving. This will be my first since surgery and I wonder how that will go. I am sure it will be fine. If anyone has any hints, please send them my way. Thanks. November 30, 2004 The last day of the month. I didn't get to my 100 pounds yet, but only two pounds away. It was a little tough on thanksgiving. I ate too much and drank during eating, basically everything against the rules.. I did it! I have no regrets, but will have more control next time. I had my first dumping experience and it wasn't pretty. I did get my pictures posted on my profile and that was exciting. We had a great support group tonight. I get happy seeing and hearing everyone's successes. I highly recommend joining a support group. It certainly helps with being successful. If you are in Longmont, Co. meet us at the library on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday. We are there at 6p. I am making a renewed commitment to get to that goal of mine. Will update again soon. Take care. December 23, 2004 Well, it has been 7 months or so since my surgery and I have lost about 105 pounds. I had a scale issue and now a little unsure. I found some Lee jeans (one tru fit) that have slimmer legs that fit great. I have noticed that my legs are slimmer than my waist in the appropriate size so my legs were always a little baggy. The Lee jeans fit much better. I was able to pick up a 13/14 and was stunned. The only proof I have of weight loss is the changing sizes in my clothes. I just cannot tell in the mirror. I am suffering some major body morphing issues. We discuss this in support group and it is a fascinating observation but a disturbing feeling. I am still co - leading a support group in Longmont, Co. and it is great. We are growing every meeting and it certainly helps keep me honest. I cannot imagine how people do this without support. I am thankful my surgeon is committed to success so he makes sure there are support groups open to anyone all over the state. I am glad to be a part of that success. I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas and Lighter New Year. March 16, 2005 Wow, it has been a long time since I posted. I have had a very rough start to this year. I will start by saying I am done with 120lbs. We decided that we don't say that we "lost" weight because that implies it can be found. We say that we are "done" with whatever our weight loss is. I love that perspective. Anyways, I had a wonderful christmas. I left right after the new year to visit my ailing grandmother for her 85th birthday. It was to make sure I saw her before she died. It was a hard trip but so wonderful at the same time. I came back as happy as I could be. I went to work and four days later received a call from my brother that I will dread for the rest of my life. My baby brother had died a few minutes before. He was only 34 and he had a blood clot that traveled to his heart and killed him instantly. One minute my brother had a wife and two beautiful children and the next he was dismissed from this world. It is so terrible I wouldn't wish it on anyone. I love my brother and always will but I have got to learn to live with this pain. I don't expect it to go away. It took me two months to be okay enough to go to work. All I can say is if any of you get any chest pains, please don't ignore them. Take a baby aspirin and GO SEE A DOCTOR. My brother didn't. He had very high work ethics and didn't want to let his boss down so he was just gonna finish a job and then go to the doctor. Take care of yourself first. I didn't get enough exercise and got stuck on a plateau for 2 months that I just got over. I hope everyone is doing well. Take care April 3, 2005 Hi all! Well, things are better. I shall miss my brother always and I will learn to live with that. I did well in the month of March. I lost 11 more lbs. I am only 23lbs from goal. My year anniversary is May 26th. I would love to be at goal by then but I am so happy with the results so far that I wouldn't mind if it takes longer. I go on the Alaskan cruise with obesityhelp this summer, Jul 30- Aug 6th and would love to say I am at goal then. I cannot wait to see the bears. I am a great time shopping for clothes. I love being able to have a style again. My hair has stopped falling out and is looking better. I am noticing bones where I didn't know there were any. My butt doesn't fit on the toilet seat right anymore. Probably more information than you needed to know, but it is a problem. I cannot wait for spring to get here and I can get busy in the garden. Not being able to harvest my vegetables is what got me here. I could no longer harvest or clean up weeds in my garden and I just lost it. Now I am glad I got to that point because life is much easier when you can get around. Our Longmont support group here in Colorado is growing and I really enjoy being a group leader. It sure does keep you honest. Until next time... May 13th 2005 (Friday) It has been awhile since I posted. Been working a lot. I am down 130 lbs. I am 19 lbs from goal. I am sure these are gonna be the hardest pounds to get off. It has been tough. It is tougher than it should be because I got off track of working out and having trouble getting back in the swing of things. I went to a Leadership meeting last week that taught us that 20 minutes a day boosts your metabolism for 24 hrs so I should be trying to get that 20min. I am leaving for california in 10 days and when I get back I am gonna work my butt off to get to goal by the Alaskan cruise. I am still losing inches. My hair is back and I am happy about that. I cannot begin to tell you how hard it is to have people you have known for 15 years look right through you because they do not recognize you. It is uncomfortable to me. I feel like I am invisible or I have to defend that it is really me. It is disturbing the way your mind works sometimes. take care everyone June 13th 2005 I thought I would stop by and check in with ya'll. I went to Disneyland a couple of weeks ago and walked for 12 hours and broke through my plateau. I lost 6 pounds that week. I am changing my weight and height on my profile to fit me now. I was afraid to change that because I didn't want to forget where I came from. I do notice that some of us do forget and start acting like we were never fat and we lose some of our understanding for others. I really hope I don't do that. I got to get a new picture for the site because I have over 50 lbs since then. My driver's license has to be redone too.. I almost had to pay cash for some plants the other day because the cashier didn't believe my driver's license. Since I am going on the obesityhelp cruise to Alaska I don't want to get caught up and not get back from Canada because they don't believe who I am.. wouldn't that be a laugh. I only have 13 pounds to go for goal and I would have liked to get there by the cruise but that might a little out of my reach. Chat later July 17th, 2006 Oh my gawd! A whole year has gone by without posting. I lost my brother last year and my Aunt this year so I have not had a real routine in quite sometime. I had to lead a mobilization for my job the last 6 months and I was too busy to breathe. We won a new contract and things are settling down. I am still down 140lbs. I still have 9 lbs to go for goal and I am not worried about it anymore. I really want to get to goal but not at the expense of my mental health. It was getting to me bad. I am a size 8 (something I haven't seen since I was 8). I am very happy with my decision. I also run a Support Group in Longmont Colorado. Come join us if you are in the neighborhood! I have to go workout! Talk to ya'll later Michael A. Snyder MD (Denver, CO) My surgeon was Dr. Snyder. My first impression was that he was very committed to his mission. He is very compassionate and although he seems to be on overdrive he spends whatever time you need with him. He has always answered my emails even on Sundays. He is always there for his patients. His office staff are friendly and acommodating. Dolly is efficient and experienced at her job of getting insurance coverage. Lorie is very special. I really count on the fact that Dr. Snyder has an overall program that is you are expected to follow. Nutrition classes, support and after visits for life. I feel very blessed to have Dr. Snyder as my surgeon. I drove from Greeley for him because of his passion. Insurer Info: Anthem