Re: ?? for those transplanted - waist band thingy

July 24, 2006

Barb -

I've been out of town - at the beach, in fact, so I just got this.

(Sorry if I miss other posts from when I was gone.) Anyway, I

couldn't imagine having anything on my stomach during the first few

months after transplant. My belly is still very sensitive, and I'm

very happy that I can wear low-waisted jeans and elastic waisted

pants because they tend to irritate the belly less. When they cut

that much muscle, there's sometimes some nerve damage. Right below

the middle of my Mercedes sign, there is a place that feels very

strange. Sometimes it hurts when you lightly touch it, sometimes it

feels ticklish, and sometimes it is numb. So, I couldn't imagine

having a brace from that standpoint.

I can understand the desire to hold the tummy in, though. After I

lost the initial swelling after the surgery, my stomach was pretty

nice and flat. I went through those months of drains and I

maintained my weight just fine - without really having to work at

it. Now that the drains are out, I've gained 10 lbs, and it is all

in my belly, I think. I'm starting to exercise regularly (you can't

really with the tubes in), and so I'm feeling better about myself

even though the weight isn't exactly dropping at a record pace.

So, I can see why this guy might like the support for his belly, but

I can't imagine using one myself. Life after transplant is VERY

individual - just like before. If Ken feels like he needs one

afterwards, then buy it then. I wouldn't buy it in preparation for

the surgery with the belief that he would need one...

Hope this helps -

Love,

Deb in VA

lovely days at Myrtle Beach this week. Used TONS of sunscreen and

clothing, so only minimal tan. Enjoyed every moment my body let me

do things. Had some swelling in my feet that I think was a reaction

to my antibiotic, but not sure. The sea water was wonderful for the

sinuses(I was under doctor's orders to get the water in my sinuses).

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