03/27/2026
Hey y'all, UPDATE.... for those who have been following my bariatric journey, you know.... back in August 2025, I had bariatric surgery (Gastric sleeve) and hernia repair. I got really sick mid- September and was admitted to Anschutz Medical Center in Denver (Aurora). I was there for a month. I was unable to eat or drink anything, couldn't keep anything down. I had severe nausea and vomiting all day, every day. While I was there, Dr.s decided I needed TPN. I was discharged and sent home with it and was on it until it was removed end of January 2026.
I finally got my Picc-line/TPN removed on January 30, 2026.... 4 months! I'm so glad. I didn't think I would see the light at the end of the tunnel but it finally came! I'm still getting to know my new stomach and what I can and can't eat and drink, and so far all is good! I'm gaining my strength and energy back... slowly. I've been able to eat pretty much anything but tiny bites and maybe 4-5 bites per meal.
For those of you who don't know what TPN is....
What is TPN and how does it work?
Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) is a medical treatment that provides essential nutrients to the body through an intravenous (IV) line, bypassing the digestive system. It's used for people who can't or shouldn't receive feedings or fluids through the mouth and digestive tract.
Here's how it works:
1. Nutrient mixture: A customized blend of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals is created based on the individual's needs.
2. IV access: A sterile catheter is inserted into a large vein, usually in the chest or arm, and guided to a larger vein near the heart.
3. Infusion: The TPN solution is slowly infused into the bloodstream through the catheter, usually over several hours or continuously.
4. Absorption: The nutrients are absorbed directly into the bloodstream, providing the body with the necessary building blocks for energy, growth, and repair.
TPN can be life-saving for people with certain medical conditions, such as:
- Intestinal failure or obstruction
- Severe gastrointestinal disorders (e.g., Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis)
- Cancer or its treatment
- Malnutrition or difficulty absorbing nutrients
Mine was in the arm....
Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) administered through the arm typically uses a Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter (PICC line). This is a long, thin tube inserted into a vein in the upper arm and threaded toward the heart, allowing for the safe delivery of high-calorie, specialized nutrition.
I Thank God everyday for pulling me through. He's never failed me nor has He ever left me. Thank you Jesus!!! 🙏
