baltimorebariatrics : Messages : 1-30 of 401

Hi Debbie:

It's good to here from you and I hope you are doing well.

I have my personal webpage set up on my work computer but if you would like to sponsor me (and I certainly appreciate the sponsorship) you can go to www.walkfromobesity.com and then click on find a walk. Under Maryland click on Baltimore and then the walk with come up. On the right hand side the #1 team so far still is Baltimore Bariatrics and that is us. When you click on that our webpage comes up and a list of everyone walking. I am way down the list under Katherine Reynolds but if you click on that my webpage comes up.

Have to run for now but if that doesn't work let me know and I will send you the link from work.

Kathy

p.s. Thanks again

debbie <debbiedcpc@...> wrote:

Hi Kathy,

       I no longer live in Baltimore so I will not be able to join in the walk, but I will gladly sponsor you. If you are who I think you are we had our sugery around the same time. And I was at Dr Roes office on one of your followup visits. The first one where you walked in on your own. without any type of assistive device. I remember seeing the joy on Dr Roe's face when he saw you walking down the hall to see him and the huge hug he gave you.

   I am sure this scene is redone everyday in Dr Roe's office as more and more people are able to get their life back because of the help he has given them and the hard work we do following Dr Roe's plan. I know that I would probally not be alive today if not for this surgery and the support I was given by Dr Roe and his staff,

   Kathy if you would email me off list with an address where I can send a donation I would appriciate it.

Thanks

Debbie

Katherine Wills <sandkat2564@yahoo.com> wrote:

Hi All:

I just looked at the list of people who have signed up to walk and although I am thrilled we are the number 1 group, I am disappointed that only about 20 people are on our team and part of that number is Dr. Roe, staff and family members of "ours".

I figure Dr. Roe has done over 500 surgeries and obesity has affected all of OUR lives. Recently I found out I have scoliosis (probably spelled wrong), the cartilage is worn out of my right hip and I have arthritis, I have to have surgery to remove the bone from my little toe and also have degeneration in my neck.  Add to that the fact that even though I've lost 300 lbs from my heaviest weight I still weigh 300 lbs. and hope to have surgery late this fall to remove the excess skin from my tummy and fix an incisional hernia that has really been bothering me lately.   I didn't say any of that to get anyone to feel sorry for me because I don't need or want pity. Just a fact of life but having shared all of that I still have registered and with God's help and good Lord willing I WILL walk at LEAST the one mile walk even if it takes me all day.

Having said that I hope some of you who are in much better shape will register and help raise money and support the good Doc, Dawn and staff and ME. I need all of the friends and support out there I can get that day. I am always proud I am part of this group and hope that together we can blow away every other team not only in numbers of walkers but also in money raised.

I am glad Noah took the initiative to get this thing started and I know together we can make all of Baltimore take notice of our accomplishments.

Love y'all.

Kathy

P.S. Yes my husband will be walking with me and supporting me and...

P.S.2 - I know some of you won't be able to walk because of prior commitments, family obligations, etc and I understand that BUT you can sponsor me. :o) Or Dr. Roe, or the team in general.

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#29

From: "Penina Tal Ohr" <peninataylor@...>
Date: Sun Oct 14, 2007 1:54 pm
Subject: RE: Just thought I would say hello

peninataylor

Online Now

Since I had to sign up for the new group, though I'd take this
opportunity to say hello.

Many of you may be wondering where I've been, most of you probably
don't even know who I am.  I had surgery with Dr. Roe March 24, 2004 -
  I am about 3 1/2 years out.

Since then I have lost 180 lbs, traveled almost around the world, and
my life has completely changed.  Thank you, Dr. Roe for the amazing
gift you gave me.

Right now, I am typing from my home right outside Jerusalem, Israel.
However, I will be in Baltimore October 24-November 7th, if anyone
wants to get together.

Just like many of the oldies out there, I did have a small
bounceback - I am 13 lbs heavier than I was at my lightest - but I
have maintained that weight faithfully for the past year.  I keep
very active - I have to, what else can I do with all this energy?

I eat stuff I am not supposed to, and on ocassion I overeat, too - we
all do, we are all human.  But I remember the essentials, always take
my supplements, and try to stick with protien when all else fails.

Remember when the euphoria dissipates and your stuck with just you
and your life, that this is a journey for the long haul.  It's about
putting yourself first - that is, making the choices that are best
for you and not sabotaging yourself, after all, who is it that you
are really hurting, anyway?

I love you all, I love reading all your posts, your ups and downs and
struggles, too.  I am sorry I don't write more often.

To those of you dealing with denials - I was denied the first time -
it took a full year before I actually got my surgery - so never give
up!

All the best,
Penina

#25

From: Katherine Wills <sandkat2564@...>
Date: Thu Oct 11, 2007 8:34 pm
Subject: Have we forgotten?

sandkat2564

Offline

Please forgive me for posting again but I have to get something off of my chest.

At lunch I looked online at the Walk From Obesity website for the "Baltimore Bariatrics" group and at first I was disappointed and then I just got pretty ticked off. Obesity obviously has affected ALL of us that belong to this group and over 600 people have opted for gastric bypass surgery as pretty much our last resort in battling this DISEASE and selected Dr. Roe to be our surgeon.

So many of us have expressed from time to time our respect and admiration for Dr. Roe and his staff and for most of our our lives have drastically improved and we have become healthier, happier people. I know Dr. Roe tells us he is in awe of our courage and that's nice but I thank God every day for his dedication and that of Dawn and the office group. I've read hundreds of posts on this website over the last 3 years with 98% of the group acknowleding the same.

So why am I ticked? This Walk From Obesity is our chance to get out there and support Dr. Roe and let the Baltimore area (if not the world) know what a wonderful and talented surgeon he is and the benefits of gastric bypass surgery for people who have reached that part of their journey with obesity. YET only 38 people had registered to walk and at least 10 of those 38 are not even patients of the good doc - my husband, Lori's husband, Noah's children, Dr. Roe, Dawn, Tracy etc - which is wonderful that they are walking and raising money and supporting us all).

There are some people (I think the number really isn't that great though) who have prior commitments and obligations that day or serious health issues and cannot walk. So far 4 of those people have personally supported me and given me donations for the walk and I sincerely appreciate that.

I think we all need to take a few minutes of quiet time and sit and reflect about where we all have come from and the difference in our lives since surgery. Then I think we should look deep in our hearts and ask ourselves why we would not take this awesome opportunity to support Dr. Roe, Dawn and staff and get off of our duffs and go walk. It's also an opportunity to help educate those in the Baltimore area about surgery and to also encourage other people who may not even need surgery but just to make people aware of obesity, it's complications and alternative treatments.

Maybe you aren't aware of this but this walk is getting publicity and coverage from WBAL and Stan Stovall is the special guest emcee. There will be health and wellness vendors there and if you register to walk there is on-site parking available, entertainment, refreshments, give aways, special prizes, etc.

There is going to be a special prize and recognition to the team who has the most walkers show up and also the team who raises the most money. BALTIMORE BARIATRICS should take BOTH of those awards away with us but we can't do it with 38 people registered.

So I beg of all of you to please give this serious thought. It's a few hours out of a Saturday morning and the $25 registration fee gets you an official "Walk From Obesity" t-shirt and shows Doc and staff we really are grateful. If you really can't walk, you don't have to support me personally but how about going online and sponsoring Dr. Roe? I really would love to have as many of us out there as we can possibly get though. Ask your best friend to register and walk with you or your spouse or life partner or children. Let's make a difference and be NUMBER ONE!

Kathy Reynolds (formerly Wills)

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#24

From: "Noah Parker" <baltgeepb@...>
Date: Thu Oct 11, 2007 5:35 pm
Subject: Walk From Obesity in 10 Days

baltgeepb

Offline

Thanks to everyone for signing up for the Walk From Obesity on
October 20th. We currently have 39 people who have signed up for the
walk and have the top fundraisers out there for this event.

It would be great if we can continue to get more people signed up
for the walk and continue to raise our overall dollars raised.
Please don't be shy about asking for support or participation. As
Kathy Reynolds reminded us at last night's support group meeting,
it's best to remember where we came from and to be thankful for all
we have. I'm sure we're all looking forward to demonstrating our
support for Dr. Roe, Dawn, and the rest of the staff who have helped
transform so many lives.

Thanks again. See you on October 20th!

-Noah Parker

Haven't signed up yet? Plenty of time:
http://walkfromobesity.kintera.org/faf/home/default.asp?ievent=240046

Be sure to join team Baltimore Bariatrics!

#23

From: Bozgirl271@...
Date: Wed Oct 10, 2007 3:32 pm
Subject: Re: Another Point of View

bosley1111

Offline

Dr. Roe,

This is so true. I think the simple most important thing that I do on a regular basis, is to get on that scale. This is something that really helps to keep us "in check".

And you are right, this is something that each of us will face, and find very difficult. I have found that when I do not utilize my scale, I'm left scratching my head wondering where those five extra pounds came from.

Good article, thanks for posting it.

Cheryl Bosley

-----Original Message-----
From: drwroe <billroe@...>
To: baltimorebariatrics@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Sun, 7 Oct 2007 2:37 pm
Subject: [baltimorebariatrics] Another Point of View

Here is a little piece I found written by another doctor....seems that EVERYBODY faces this problem eventually..


KEEPING THE WEIGHT OFF - It Can't Be So Hard by Henry C. Sobo, MD Anyone who has experienced significant weight loss must then face what may be the real challenge, keeping the weight off. The most important factor, I believe, is setting attainable goals. If you try to do something that is too difficult, then you will not be able to do it for any sustained period of time. I believe that finding a realistic, doable approach that works for you is the key element in keeping off the weight you have lost. In listing my recommendations below, I classify each as: 1. Easy. 2. Not too hard. 3. Too hard. Focus on numbers 1 and 2 and see what can realistically be done to move a number 3 down to a number 2. First the easy ones, eat breakfast daily. Avoiding this meal is a natural, yet wrong approach that many people use. It might seem that if you are not really hungry for breakfast and you eat less by skipping a meal that cannot hurt, but skipping breakfast or any other meal is a terrible strategy that has been shown time and time again to undermine the effort to keep off the weight you have lost. Your body is pretty smart and if you skip a meal, you will more than make up for it later. Again, this is an easy commitment you can make, just do it. Next, weigh yourself regularly. Another easy one, there is nothing to it, just commit yourself to getting on the scale at least once per week. This forces you into confronting the reality of regaining any of the weight you have lost. If you avoid facing a small amount of weight gain, you let things slip away until you have gained back so much weight it becomes discouraging to do anything about it. Next to number 2, not too hard. Walking for exercise. Exercise is one of those things dieters do when they are in a highly motivated weight reduction phase and then they quit. Using a treadmill or other equipment at a gym involves a membership and changing in clothes, schedule, interruptions, etc. If you can walk, you can exercise. You need not suit up and go anywhere special to do this. Your body does not know if you are walking down your block, in a mall or on a trail in the countryside. Consistency is the key and continuing to do a moderate amount of exercise by walking is probably the most important single thing in keeping weight off. Next, number 3, too hard. The hardest thing of all, of course, is never eating the fattening foods you love to eat in excess, which got you into all that trouble to begin with. The most realistic approach to number 3 is doing numbers 1 and 2. You will not want to waste the effort of the number 1s and the number 2s. There are so many approaches to the diet itself and there is no magic for anyone. Do not expect, or even try too hard, to avoid foods that you will probably never completely eliminate. That will set you up to fail when you do eat them. Eat them occasionally and follow a generally low-fat, low-sugar diet. Combining that with doing our easier suggestions winds up being the most realistic approach to keeping off the weight you have tried so hard to lose

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#22

From: annmarie82571@...
Date: Wed Oct 10, 2007 7:36 am
Subject: Re: Fw: OffTrack Re: 5 Day Pouch TEST

brackann

Offline

I am starting mine tomorrow. Have to go out and get some new protein powder. Didn't realize my son used the last of mine (love how my children puts the empty container back on the shelf and not telling me).

Hope the migraine goes away. I am going to talk to my primary today about the ones I have been getting lately.

Ann Marie

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#21

From: "Ethel Lau" <mrs4paw2@...>
Date: Wed Oct 10, 2007 4:52 am
Subject: Re: Fw: OffTrack Re: 5 Day Pouch TEST

mrs4paw2

Offline

hope so Anne marie , i am starting monday ,cause iam under this fibro fog migraine headache , so i will start after that , some of the girls on the other sites have started to lose 5 to 7 lbs. in a week and then wait 1 week and try again . What with the article Dr. Roe send it makes a lot of sence

Ethel

----- Original Message -----

From: annmarie82571@...

To: baltimorebariatrics@yahoogroups.com

Sent: Monday, October 08, 2007 11:20 PM

Subject: Re: [baltimorebariatrics] Fw: OffTrack Re: 5 Day Pouch TEST

Thanks for the link. Think that this may help me get back on track with my weight loss.

Ann Marie

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#20

From: "Ethel Lau" <mrs4paw2@...>
Date: Wed Oct 10, 2007 4:53 am
Subject: Fw: [FM-WLS] Pill Absorption

mrs4paw2

Offline

----- Original Message -----

From: Dave and Jeanne

To: FM-WLS@yahoogroups.com

Sent: Tuesday, October 09, 2007 6:22 AM

Subject: [FM-WLS] Pill Absorption

http://www.ajhp.org:80/cgi/content/full/63/19/1852

Above is a link for an article on pill absorption. I just scanned it and what I get from it is that it varies among individuals. If an appropriate dose of medication does not seem to be working for you, your doctor may decide to prescribe a higher dose, or another form of medication such as a patch, liquid, injection, suppository, etc.

Don't know if that helps or not, Lori. Your idea to cut pills in half is a good idea if it helps you. Of course, not all meds can be cut. I do OK with most meds, I think. I have noticed that 12-hour cold remedies usually only work for me about 8 hours. For prescription meds, we should really avoid any time released formulas. Hope this helps.

Jeanne

----- Original Message -----

From: Lori

To: FM-WLS@yahoogroups.com

Sent: Tuesday, October 09, 2007 12:11 AM

Subject: [FM-WLS] Jeanne-protein bars/eggs

Dear Jeanne,

Thank you for the link to EAS products . I will most likely pick up a couple of 4 packs of the EAS Carb Control for while we are in Boise for the surgery.

I have a question for the group...when you take prescribed meds, what form is most effective. I break my pills in half and that seems to absorb a little better. For pain meds I was wondering if patchs, shots, pills..what works best for us who had had WLS ?

blessings,

Lori

Dave and Jeanne <djgraves9497@sbcglobal.net> wrote:

I love the EAS chocolate brownie one. I had to give them up because they became an addiction. You can order them online at www.dpsnutrition.com. Won't help with your immediate situation, but for the future. Eggs are a problem for me if I eat them fried. I love eating egg salad now, and I do OK with poached or even scrambled. I had an omelette once with ham/cheese and that didn't go down well. I'm not a good chewer, and I still tend to take too large of bites.

Anyhow, that's enough gabbing for now.

Jeanne

----- Original Message -----

From: Lori

To: FM-WLS@yahoogroups.com

Sent: Sunday, October 07, 2007 11:21 PM

Subject: [FM-WLS] Jeanne

Hello Again Jeanne,

I really like EAS bars but the local Walmart has stopped stocking them. I just benevr know what to order if we are away from home. Eggs are not my friend, so I have no clue what to have for breakfasy. People always eats when they get together and I feel like the odd an out now.

I don't eat nearly as much as I use to but I still do not loose weight. Good luck at the doctor. Thank you for the well wishes for my son.

blessings,

Lori

Dave and Jeanne <djgraves9497@sbcglobal.net> wrote:

When my surgeon called me for a follow-up sometime last year in 06, he was baffled that my very distal bypass wasn't yielding me weight loss. He knows I have a carb addiction, especially sweets, and felt that being distal was the answer. His only explanation is that my remaining common channel (only 100 cm.) is very thick which means it is still absorbing well.

I know that it is an addiction for me, especially being home all day, I just graze throughout the day.

Have you thought about taking protein bars along while away from home? There are some that aren't too bad. I hope everything goes well with your son's surgery. Take care.

Jeanne

----- Original Message -----

From: Lori

To: FM-WLS@yahoogroups.com

Sent: Sunday, October 07, 2007 5:01 PM

Subject: [FM-WLS] Jeanne

Hello Jeanne,

Thank you for the welcome. I yo yo back and forth from diarrhea and constipation too. For the diarrhea I take arsenicum album. It's about $5.00 for 250 tablets. They dissolve under the tongue so it works well with malabsorbtion issues. I keep some in the car for when I am out and about. I had similar issues before WLS too, but it was diagnosed as irritable bowel syndrome .

As far as the icky smelling gas, when I have this it usually subsides if I cut back on carbs. My comfort food is ice cream and I must stay away from others if I have ice cream.

I never know what to eat away from home. This week we will be away while my son has shoulder surgery and if I don't have a protein drink with me I probably won't eat .

Has your doctor given you an explanation why the WLS haven't worked well for you ? My weight is creeping back on..the ice cream doesn't help this though..hehehe.

blessings,

Lori

jeanne8663 <djgraves9497@sbcglobal.net> wrote:

Hi Friends - I joined a Yahoo group for more FM support because
things have really sucked lately. So, we have 2 new members from that
group, Lori and Tigger. Welcome to both of you.

I'm seeing a GI doc on Tuesday that my PCP recommended. She said that
he is a very nice GI doc. Niceness is a definite plus, but I'll need
to question him as to his experience with gastric bypass patients. I
think I need a colonoscopy and possibly an endoscopy as well. My
digestive system is such a fricking mess. After my revision in 05 to
become more distal, I never had any more weight loss, and my BM's
remained much as before, mostly constipated. The only difference I
noticed for sure was the farts sure smelled worse than before. LOL!
The past several months I've had chronic diarrhea that's consistently
been getting worse. I finally started taking fiber tablets a couple
weeks ago and that has helped quite a bit, but hasn't eliminated the
problem completely. I have a family history of colitis so I think
the doc will probably recommend the colonoscopy.

Does anyone take Nexium? My insurance company pushed for me to
switch from Prevacid to Nexium because Nexium was on the approved
list, and Prevacid wasn't. My co-pay was the same for either drug,
but they kept hounding me and my doc that we finally switched. Just
wondered if Nexium has been a problem for anyone? It does sort of
coincide with the diarrhea problems now that I think back.

That's all for now. Take care.
Jeanne in WI

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#19

From: annmarie82571@...
Date: Mon Oct 8, 2007 11:20 pm
Subject: Re: Fw: OffTrack Re: 5 Day Pouch TEST

brackann

Offline

Thanks for the link. Think that this may help me get back on track with my weight loss.

Ann Marie

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#18

From: "Ethel Lau" <mrs4paw2@...>
Date: Tue Oct 9, 2007 2:45 am
Subject: Fw: OffTrack Re: 5 Day Pouch TEST

mrs4paw2

Offline

----- Original Message -----
From: <flozzz@...>
To: <OSSG_Off_track@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Monday, October 08, 2007 2:55 PM
Subject: Re: OffTrack Re: 5 Day Pouch TEST


> Thanks Jamie, it was difficult find, for me anyway.
> Have a good week!
> love,
> flo
> 5 Day Pouch TEST
> reset your pouch!
> http://www.5daypouchtest.com
>
> I just uploaded this to links section!
>
> http://www.frskiadasartstudio.com
> We, the people, are the rightful masters of both congress and the courts --
not to overthrow the constitution, but to overthrow men who pervert the
constitution. -- A. Lincoln
>
> People are always blaming their circumstances for what they are. I don't
believe in circumstances. The people who get on in this world are the people who
get up and look for the circumstances they want, and, if they can't find them,
make them.
> -- George Bernard Shaw
>
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>
>
>
> Remember to trim posts. Remove all previous messages, except part of post to
which you are replying.
>
> To send an email to group:
> ossg_off_track@yahoogroups.com
>
> To Unsubscribe send an email to:  OSSG_Off_track-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
>
>
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>
>
>

#17

From: "drwroe" <billroe@...>
Date: Sun Oct 7, 2007 6:37 pm
Subject: Another Point of View

drwroe

Offline

Here is a little piece I found written by another doctor....seems that EVERYBODY faces this problem eventually..

KEEPING THE WEIGHT OFF - It Can't Be So Hard

by Henry C. Sobo, MD

Anyone who has experienced significant weight loss must then face what may be the real challenge, keeping the weight off. The most important factor, I believe, is setting attainable goals. If you try to do something that is too difficult, then you will not be able to do it for any sustained period of time. I believe that finding a realistic, doable approach that works for you is the key element in keeping off the weight you have lost. In listing my recommendations below, I classify each as:

1. Easy.

2. Not too hard.

3. Too hard.

Focus on numbers 1 and 2 and see what can realistically be done to move a number 3 down to a number 2.

First the easy ones, eat breakfast daily. Avoiding this meal is a natural, yet wrong approach that many people use. It might seem that if you are not really hungry for breakfast and you eat less by skipping a meal that cannot hurt, but skipping breakfast or any other meal is a terrible strategy that has been shown time and time again to undermine the effort to keep off the weight you have lost. Your body is pretty smart and if you skip a meal, you will more than make up for it later. Again, this is an easy commitment you can make, just do it.

Next, weigh yourself regularly. Another easy one, there is nothing to it, just commit yourself to getting on the scale at least once per week. This forces you into confronting the reality of regaining any of the weight you have lost. If you avoid facing a small amount of weight gain, you let things slip away until you have gained back so much weight it becomes discouraging to do anything about it.

Next to number 2, not too hard. Walking for exercise. Exercise is one of those things dieters do when they are in a highly motivated weight reduction phase and then they quit. Using a treadmill or other equipment at a gym involves a membership and changing in clothes, schedule, interruptions, etc. If you can walk, you can exercise. You need not suit up and go anywhere special to do this. Your body does not know if you are walking down your block, in a mall or on a trail in the countryside. Consistency is the key and continuing to do a moderate amount of exercise by walking is probably the most important single thing in keeping weight off.

Next, number 3, too hard. The hardest thing of all, of course, is never eating the fattening foods you love to eat in excess, which got you into all that trouble to begin with. The most realistic approach to number 3 is doing numbers 1 and 2. You will not want to waste the effort of the number 1s and the number 2s. There are so many approaches to the diet itself and there is no magic for anyone. Do not expect, or even try too hard, to avoid foods that you will probably never completely eliminate. That will set you up to fail when you do eat them. Eat them occasionally and follow a generally low-fat, low-sugar diet. Combining that with doing our easier suggestions winds up being the most realistic approach to keeping off the weight you have tried so hard to lose

#16

From: "Pzaz" <pzaz1018@...>
Date: Tue Oct 2, 2007 10:15 pm
Subject: Re: new support group

pzaz1018

Offline

Any word on the support group for "veterans"?

YEs!!!!  I posted the link, but here it is again. . .

http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/baltimorebariatricsbackontrackers/?
yguid=64776073


Pzaz

#15

From: "mlc6082005" <mlc6082005@...>
Date: Tue Oct 2, 2007 9:45 pm
Subject: new support group

mlc6082005

Offline

any word on the support group for "veterans"?

#14

From: debbie <debbiedcpc@...>
Date: Fri Sep 28, 2007 12:31 pm
Subject: Re: Walk From Obesity

debbiedcpc

Offline

Hi Kathy,

I no longer live in Baltimore so I will not be able to join in the walk, but I will gladly sponsor you. If you are who I think you are we had our sugery around the same time. And I was at Dr Roes office on one of your followup visits. The first one where you walked in on your own. without any type of assistive device. I remember seeing the joy on Dr Roe's face when he saw you walking down the hall to see him and the huge hug he gave you.

I am sure this scene is redone everyday in Dr Roe's office as more and more people are able to get their life back because of the help he has given them and the hard work we do following Dr Roe's plan. I know that I would probally not be alive today if not for this surgery and the support I was given by Dr Roe and his staff,

Kathy if you would email me off list with an address where I can send a donation I would appriciate it.

Thanks

Debbie

Katherine Wills <sandkat2564@...> wrote:

Hi All:

I just looked at the list of people who have signed up to walk and although I am thrilled we are the number 1 group, I am disappointed that only about 20 people are on our team and part of that number is Dr. Roe, staff and family members of "ours".

I figure Dr. Roe has done over 500 surgeries and obesity has affected all of OUR lives. Recently I found out I have scoliosis (probably spelled wrong), the cartilage is worn out of my right hip and I have arthritis, I have to have surgery to remove the bone from my little toe and also have degeneration in my neck. Add to that the fact that even though I've lost 300 lbs from my heaviest weight I still weigh 300 lbs. and hope to have surgery late this fall to remove the excess skin from my tummy and fix an incisional hernia that has really been bothering me lately. I didn't say any of that to get anyone to feel sorry for me because I don't need or want pity. Just a fact of life but having shared all of that I still have registered and with God's help and good Lord willing I WILL walk at LEAST the one mile walk even if it takes me all day.

Having said that I hope some of you who are in much better shape will register and help raise money and support the good Doc, Dawn and staff and ME. I need all of the friends and support out there I can get that day. I am always proud I am part of this group and hope that together we can blow away every other team not only in numbers of walkers but also in money raised.

I am glad Noah took the initiative to get this thing started and I know together we can make all of Baltimore take notice of our accomplishments.

Love y'all.

Kathy

P.S. Yes my husband will be walking with me and supporting me and...

P.S.2 - I know some of you won't be able to walk because of prior commitments, family obligations, etc and I understand that BUT you can sponsor me. :o) Or Dr. Roe, or the team in general.

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#13

From: Katherine Wills <sandkat2564@...>
Date: Fri Sep 28, 2007 2:12 am
Subject: Walk From Obesity

sandkat2564

Offline

Hi All:

I just looked at the list of people who have signed up to walk and although I am thrilled we are the number 1 group, I am disappointed that only about 20 people are on our team and part of that number is Dr. Roe, staff and family members of "ours".

I figure Dr. Roe has done over 500 surgeries and obesity has affected all of OUR lives. Recently I found out I have scoliosis (probably spelled wrong), the cartilage is worn out of my right hip and I have arthritis, I have to have surgery to remove the bone from my little toe and also have degeneration in my neck. Add to that the fact that even though I've lost 300 lbs from my heaviest weight I still weigh 300 lbs. and hope to have surgery late this fall to remove the excess skin from my tummy and fix an incisional hernia that has really been bothering me lately. I didn't say any of that to get anyone to feel sorry for me because I don't need or want pity. Just a fact of life but having shared all of that I still have registered and with God's help and good Lord willing I WILL walk at LEAST the one mile walk even if it takes me all day.

Having said that I hope some of you who are in much better shape will register and help raise money and support the good Doc, Dawn and staff and ME. I need all of the friends and support out there I can get that day. I am always proud I am part of this group and hope that together we can blow away every other team not only in numbers of walkers but also in money raised.

I am glad Noah took the initiative to get this thing started and I know together we can make all of Baltimore take notice of our accomplishments.

Love y'all.

Kathy

P.S. Yes my husband will be walking with me and supporting me and...

P.S.2 - I know some of you won't be able to walk because of prior commitments, family obligations, etc and I understand that BUT you can sponsor me. :o) Or Dr. Roe, or the team in general.

Looking for a deal? Find great prices on flights and hotels with Yahoo! FareChase.

#12

From: mary connor <mlc6082005@...>
Date: Thu Sep 6, 2007 4:37 pm
Subject: Re: "Time Magazine" article

mlc6082005

Offline

FYI

if anyone takes Vitron-C, it is half price this week at RiteAid

Susan <munchkininmd@...> wrote:

Thought you would all be interested:

http://www.time.com/time/health/article/0,8599,1655367,00.html?cnn=yes

Love to all!
Susan

Moody friends. Drama queens. Your life? Nope! - their life, your story.
Play Sims Stories at Yahoo! Games.

#11

From: "Mary Kay" <marykay102@...>
Date: Wed Aug 29, 2007 10:22 pm
Subject: Re: Insurance denied appeal

sarahmilady

Offline

Take heart and figure out a way to get the surgery. The same thing
happened to me, and my husband and I refinanced the house( got a 2nd
mortgage)  in order to get the surgery. No regrets, it is the best
thing that I have ever done for myself. I don't know if you are in a
position to do that, but if you are I would say go for it.

Of course  you want to find out as much as you can about getting
insurance to pay for it, meanwhile, consider the impact on your
emotional health. I took a real downturn when they finally told me I
was denied after waiting to be scheduled etc.

NIH has done the research and the surgery is the only effective
teament for obesity, and the state of Maryland has mandated that
companies that have over 50 employees have to pay for it.

It is much less of a cost in the long run than paying for all the
comorbidity that occurs from the weight issues.

Do whatever it is that you have to do, it is well worth it. I will
pray for you daily in this struggle, having been there, I know how it
makes you feel. You will be the winner of this one though,
and Doc Roe and his staff will see you through it. They are great and
loving, know how you feel, and will stand by you as you negotiate the
hardest thing about getting this surgery. (Insurance!!!)
My heart and paryers are with you.

Mary Kay Huster

--- In baltimorebariatrics@yahoogroups.com, "sylkwill" <sylkwill@...>
wrote:
>
> United Healthcare just informed me that they were denying my appeal
> after 6 weeks of us sending it in.
>
> I am really depressed and I don't know what to do next. Should I get
a
> lawyer? Should I change my insurance company?
>
> Any advice?
>

Reply | Forward | Messages in this Topic (3)

#10

From: "broberts6942" <broberts@...>
Date: Wed Aug 29, 2007 8:24 pm
Subject: Re: Insurance denied appeal

broberts6942

Offline

why did they deny you? Did they say?

n baltimorebariatrics@yahoogroups.com, "sylkwill" <sylkwill@...> wrote:
>
> United Healthcare just informed me that they were denying my appeal
> after 6 weeks of us sending it in.
>
> I am really depressed and I don't know what to do next. Should I get a
> lawyer? Should I change my insurance company?
>
> Any advice?
>

Reply | Forward | Messages in this Topic (3)

From: "sylkwill" <sylkwill@...>
Date: Wed Aug 29, 2007 4:59 pm
Subject: Insurance denied appeal

sylkwill

Offline

United Healthcare just informed me that they were denying my appeal
after 6 weeks of us sending it in.

I am really depressed and I don't know what to do next. Should I get a
lawyer? Should I change my insurance company?

Any advice?

Reply | Forward | Messages in this Topic (3)

From: "drwroe" <billroe@...>
Date: Tue Aug 28, 2007 2:56 am
Subject: A Landmark Article...Ammunition for those "Water-Cololer" conversations.

drwroe

Offline

Summary and Implications of Long-Term Mortality Studies for Bariatric Surgery in NEJM Aug 23, 2007

Sj�str�m L, Narbro K, Sj�str�m CD, et al. Effects of bariatric surgery on mortality in Swedish obese subjects. N Engl J Med 2007;357:741-52.

Adams TD, Gress RE, Smith SC, et al. Long-term mortality after gastric bypass surgery. N Engl J Med 2007;357:753-61.

Sj�str�m et al. conducted a prospective, controlled study of bariatric surgery, the Swedish Obese Subjects (SOS) study in which severely obese patients (male > BMI 34 and female BMI > 38) desiring surgery were matched with equally obese patients not desiring surgery. There were 2010 patients who had surgery including vertical banded gastroplasty (68%), gastric banding (19%) and Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (13%) and 2037 who had no surgery but standard medical weight loss treatment. At 10 years, weight loss ranged from 14 - 25% of initial weight in the surgery group compared to 2% in the control group. In the surgery group there was a 29% reduction in the adjusted hazard ratio for death after an average follow up of 10. 9 years with a 99.9% follow-up rate.

Adams et al. conducted a retrospective cohort study with controls obtained from driver's license records that were matched to patients who had undergone gastric-bypass surgery.

In this study, deaths from all causes were reduced by 40%, from diabetes 92%, from coronary artery disease by 56%, and from cancer by 60%.

Significance of Studies

1) Both studies are well designed with appropriate control groups. The SOS study is the only prospective, controlled study in the literature with sufficient power to determine mortality reduction. Both studies are among the most important studies in bariatric surgery literature because they address the most important outcome �long-term survival.

2) Both studies corroborate findings of retrospective studies by Pories, Flum and Christou that demonstrated significant mortality reduction associated with bariatric surgery (gastric bypass). These previous studies were criticized by some authorities because of inadequate control groups or flaws in study design. The high quality of the Sjostrom and Adams studies should dispel any major criticism in design or methodology.

3) Both studies provide extremely strong evidence of health improvement and mortality reduction after bariatric surgery. Furthermore, both studies predated major advances in bariatric surgery, especially the advent of laparoscopic surgery. Survival benefit may likely be even greater today.

4) The 29-40% mortality reduction resulting from bariatric surgery is comparable to or exceeds major advances in cardiology over the last decade including the introduction of statins, antihypertensive agents and aspirin.

5) The most notable reductions in mortality included diabetes related mortality reduction (92%), cancer (60%), and coronary artery disease (56%).

6) Although obesity has been linked to many cancers including breast, colon, prostate, and esophageal cancer, the Adams study and the Christou study are the first to show a reduction in cancer mortality with bariatric surgery.

Impact of Studies

1) Both studies support the concept adopted by CMS that obesity (100 million Americans) and particularly severe obesity (15 million Americans) is a disease and a lethal disease.

2) Both studies dispel the notion that bariatric surgery is cosmetic surgery� it saves lives. Even though CMS mandated coverage in Feb 2006, most insurance companies today still do not cover bariatric surgery as part of the standard benefit package. Many insurance carriers that do cover bariatric surgery place non-evidence-based barriers to discourage or delay patients from acquiring surgical treatment. The results of these 2 studies suggest that more health insurance companies are likely to cover bariatric surgery. The weight of evidence of these 2 studies and other supportive

evidence must support the contention that it is unethical for insurance carriers to deny patient access to bariatric surgery.

3) Both studies dispel the notion that weight loss is temporary. The SOS study in particular indicates significant long-term weight loss up to 15 years with 99.9% follow-up.

4) Both studies dispel the notion that bariatric surgery is dangerous. With operative mortality rates below 1%, obesity is far more dangerous than bariatric surgery. The AHRQ report of Jan 2007 indicated that mortality rates for bariatric surgery between 1998 and 2004 fell by 78%. The ASMBS quality initiative known as Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence has set high quality standards for hospitals and surgeons performing bariatric surgery. To date, this effort has resulted in certification of over 250 hospitals and nearly 500 surgeons nation-wide as participating members of a Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence.

5) The significant mortality reduction identified in these studies raises the issue of potential mortality benefit of surgery in patients with BMI < 35. A reassessment of standard indications for bariatric surgery based primarily on BMI and exclusion of patients with BMI < 35 should be conducted by a multidisciplinary panel of experts.

6) Both studies raise many unanswered and relevant clinical questions:

a. How much weight needs to be lost to achieve a significant mortality reduction?

b. Are there factors other than weight loss that might account for the survival benefit?

c. How do these operations cause long-term weight loss?

d. What are the relative risks and benefits of each operation and what guides should surgeons use to match specific operations with patient goals?

7) More government-supported research, specifically well designed clinical trials, should commence to address the important issues raised by these 2 studies. The U.S. government has invested relatively very little in evaluation of obesity treatment in general and even less for bariatric surgery.

8) Prevention: Although bariatric surgery has been proven to be effective treatment for severe obesity, the U.S. government, health care providers, civic leaders, and policy makers must place more focus on prevention in order to reduce the impending burden of obesity for generations to come.

References

1. Christou NV, Sampalis JS, Liberman M, et al. Surgery decreases long-term mortality, morbidity, and health care use in morbidly obese patients. AnnSurg 2004;240-416-23.

2. Flum DR, Dellinger EP. Impact of gastric bypass operation on survival: a population-based analysis. J Am Coll Surg 2004;199:543-51.

3. MacDonald KG Jr, Long SD, Swanson MS et al. The gastric bypass operation reduces the progression and mortality of non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. J Gastrointest Surg 1997;1:123-20.

4. ZhaoY and Encinosa W. Bariatric surgery utilization and outcomes in 1998 and 2004. AHRQ Statistical Brief # 23. January 2007

From: "Susan" <munchkininmd@...>
Date: Thu Aug 23, 2007 12:23 pm
Subject: "Time Magazine" article

munchkininmd

Offline

Thought you would all be interested:

http://www.time.com/time/health/article/0,8599,1655367,00.html?cnn=yes

Love to all!
Susan

From: "Pzaz" <pzaz1018@...>
Date: Tue Aug 21, 2007 8:38 pm
Subject: Re: Thanks

pzaz1018

Offline

See, that is why I love you Dr. Roe!!!!  Sign me up, I will be
your first member!!!!!  After having three babies within 3 years (Lyric
06/04, Saniah 12/05, and Aaris 01/07), I need to get back on track.  Of
course I have been trying.  I took a belly dancing class
yesterday!!!!!!  It was soooo much fun and yes, I am sore as I don't
know what!!!!  But I am going back every Sunday.

      All you had to do was mention it, and it is done.  The group for
us back on trackers is called  Baltimore Bariatrics Backontrackers.
The link for the homepage is below.

http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/baltimorebariatricsbackontrackers/

Dr. Roe please invite any staff who could help us to restart this
journey.

Pzaz

From: annmarie82571@...
Date: Mon Aug 20, 2007 1:10 pm
Subject: Re: Thanks

brackann

Offline

As one of those past the "honeymoon" period who have gained weight I think that having a 2nd group for anyone who is experiencing some setbacks would be great.

Oh, and thanks for the hug today Dr. Roe, I really needed that.

Ann Marie

Get a sneak peek of the all-new AOL.com.

From: EMANUS <r_emanus@...>
Date: Mon Aug 20, 2007 11:25 am
Subject: Re: Thanks

r_emanus

Offline

I think another group for those of us who have gained would be beneficial. It is quite embarrasing to be in a group that I personally don't know how to answer some of the newbies questions, and that doe's keep me from responding, everyday I read, I just don't get involved.

drwroe <billroe@...> wrote:

Thanks Pzazz,

As I explained to you, new patients starting AFTER I moved the office
to Cromwell Bridge Road were a little confused about the Rossville
Weight Loss label.

Thinking back, I find it almost embarassing I needed the medical weight
loss experience to prove to myself the futility of this treatment for
morbid obesity. It was only then that I was able to appreciate the true
nature of the disease of morbid obesity and add gastric bypass surgery
to the offered treatment options.

Then I have to think how difficult it must be for you guys to convince
those around you that is is not your fault, that the disease takes over
and that "drastic" measures are indeed the only effective treatment
option.

I have repeatedly said that you are the most corageous group of people
I have ever had the privelege of knowing. And there, I have said it
again.

I want to thank you all for allowing me and my staff to be a part of
your journey, and remind those of you who are still struggling, we
would still welcome the opportunity of helping you.

To that end, I am trying to get a "Back on track" program going,
designed for those fo you past teh "honeymoon" and have experienced
some weight gain.

As a part of this effort, we have enlisted the exercise
physiologists/trainers of Striations Fitness, who are available to
design personalized programs that meets an individual's needs while
respecting their restrictions.

Our dietician is also available for individual follow-up counseling.

One questinon I have is whether or not we need a second group for those
more than two years out and are struggling would be worthwhile? I fear
the "embarassment" of weight gain is keeping people away from the
regular monthly group.

Any feedback is always appreciated.

Dr. Roe

Be a better Globetrotter. Get better travel answers from someone who knows.
Yahoo! Answers - Check it out.

From: "drwroe" <billroe@...>
Date: Mon Aug 20, 2007 3:57 am
Subject: Thanks

drwroe

Offline

Thanks Pzazz,

As I explained to you, new patients starting AFTER I moved the office
to Cromwell Bridge Road were a little confused about the Rossville
Weight Loss label.

Thinking back, I find it almost embarassing I needed the medical weight
loss experience to prove to myself the futility of this treatment for
morbid obesity. It was only then that I was able to appreciate the true
nature of the disease of morbid obesity and add gastric bypass surgery
to the offered treatment options.

Then I have to think how difficult it must be for you guys to convince
those around you that is is not your fault, that the disease takes over
and that "drastic" measures are indeed the only effective treatment
option.

I have repeatedly said that you are the most corageous group of people
I have ever had the privelege of knowing. And there, I have said it
again.

I want to thank you all for allowing me and my staff to be a part of
your journey, and remind those of you who are still struggling, we
would still welcome the opportunity of helping you.

To that end, I am trying to get a "Back on track" program going,
designed for those fo you past teh "honeymoon" and have experienced
some weight gain.

As a part of this effort, we have enlisted the exercise
physiologists/trainers of Striations Fitness, who are available to
design  personalized programs that meets an individual's needs while
respecting their restrictions.

Our dietician is also available for individual follow-up counseling.

One questinon I have is whether or not we need a second group for those
more than two years out and are struggling would be worthwhile? I fear
the "embarassment" of weight gain is keeping people away from the
regular monthly group.

Any feedback is always appreciated.

Dr. Roe

From: "Pzaz" <pzaz1018@...>
Date: Mon Aug 20, 2007 1:40 am
Subject: Re: Thanks Pzaz

pzaz1018

Offline

Oh you are oh so welcome!!!!  The family is doing beautifully!

Pzaz

From: "nosyroom8" <nosyroom8@...>
Date: Sun Aug 19, 2007 2:36 pm
Subject: Thanks Pzaz

nosyroom8

Offline

Thanks...as usual you do such a good job taking care of us.  Hope all
is well with the family.

Kim