Guest guest Posted June 24, 2005 Report Share Posted June 24, 2005 hehehe, I HAVE A DATE! I think it's just starting to sink in. I still have some of that water weight to lose, but....I REALLY DO HAVE A DATE! LOL Laurie ____________________________________________________ Yahoo! Sports Rekindle the Rivalries. Sign up for Fantasy Football http://football.fantasysports.yahoo.com Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 24, 2005 Report Share Posted June 24, 2005 Merci!! yes, hmmm..how does one say that? "Formidable!!" Now...what's up with your weight, friend? you are getting skinnier and skinnier. How's the water weight...is it all gone now?Uncle Timmy wrote: 17 pounds in two weeks??!! WOO-HOO (Sorry, can't translate that en fransaise,)Uncle Timmy -240> Hi All,> I have been lurking for quite some time now. I have been approved for > surgery with Dr Baggs, I actually go in on 6/28! The time has flown > by once that date was set a few weeks ago! I think I was still in > denial for awhile, I stalled for about a year, thinking I could do > this weight loss one last time without the surgery as my new tool for > the rest of my life. Finally I saw the light and am comfortable with > the pending surgery. :-) > > I am wondering on those of you post op- is there any advise you can > offer on my getting settled once back home from the hospital?> Are there things you found helpful? > What was the best way you divided up time for taking the vites? > > I will be at the next group meeting, but that isn't until after my > surgery to ask all the questions I have.> Any help now would be really appreciated!> > Orientation- 336 (lost 10 lbs prior to that)> 6/7/05- 297.5 (every ounce counts)> Dr. Baggs- Richmond Kaiser.> > > > > > > > > > ---------------------------------> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 24, 2005 Report Share Posted June 24, 2005 Merci!! yes, hmmm..how does one say that? "Formidable!!" Now...what's up with your weight, friend? you are getting skinnier and skinnier. How's the water weight...is it all gone now?Uncle Timmy wrote: 17 pounds in two weeks??!! WOO-HOO (Sorry, can't translate that en fransaise,)Uncle Timmy -240> Hi All,> I have been lurking for quite some time now. I have been approved for > surgery with Dr Baggs, I actually go in on 6/28! The time has flown > by once that date was set a few weeks ago! I think I was still in > denial for awhile, I stalled for about a year, thinking I could do > this weight loss one last time without the surgery as my new tool for > the rest of my life. Finally I saw the light and am comfortable with > the pending surgery. :-) > > I am wondering on those of you post op- is there any advise you can > offer on my getting settled once back home from the hospital?> Are there things you found helpful? > What was the best way you divided up time for taking the vites? > > I will be at the next group meeting, but that isn't until after my > surgery to ask all the questions I have.> Any help now would be really appreciated!> > Orientation- 336 (lost 10 lbs prior to that)> 6/7/05- 297.5 (every ounce counts)> Dr. Baggs- Richmond Kaiser.> > > > > > > > > > ---------------------------------> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 26, 2005 Report Share Posted June 26, 2005 No problem on the questions. Let's see: Dr. Fisher was my surgeon with Dr. Baggs assisting. A popsicle is considered water. Not food. (make sure it's sugar free). At my two week, I asked Dr. Baggs if it was still ok for me to do popsicles, and he said, "Sure, as many as you want." It's a good way to slowly get liquids. I haven't done any protein drinks. I'm trying to follow Richmond's guidelines. I've done a shake once, it is IsoKool, 90 calories, 22 gm. of protein, no fat, and like 1 g or less of sugar. That was because I was in a situation where I had no other food available. I don't rule out the use of protein shakes...it's just that I'm pretty early in the process yet...and they don't actually expect that you'll be able to get in all that protein during the first six weeks. After six weeks or so, you go to phase IV where you will be eating between four and six ounces per meal, in lieu of 2 oz. per meal. That's a more achievable objective. But none of us is going to starve to death in the first six weeks if we can't protein load. Don't get me wrong...every meal I focus on protein. It's not like I'm protein free, or anything. Taste is the same for me, I haven't noticed any real modifications. Except that when I was in phase 2, I was more in the mood for savory flavors as opposed to sweet (for example, cream soup instead of sugar free pudding). That's unusual for me. Otherwise, I think my tastes are pretty much the same...so far. Of course, I haven't been trying everything in the book. I noticed that skim milk mozzarella sticks were very hard for me to digest at first. They hurt going down. And water hurts sometimes, which is why I'm doind the popsicles (although I'm doing water, too.) As far as whether it is hard to eat anything at all...well, no, it's not hard. I find in the a.m., I forget to eat if I'm not on top of it...and with all of the sleeping I did the first couple of weeks, I would wind up having breakfast at 11 a.m., lunch around 3 and dinner around 9. I'm trying to adjust that a bit. And yes, there were times when I wasn't hungry at all...but there were also times when I was quite hungry. And a couple of times when I ate an additional serving of pudding or soup or something. I only did this twice, and I'm trying not to get in any habits. But, that was at the tail end of my two weeks, before I was advanced to protein...and I was hungry for several days. Only around dinner time, oddly enough. 145 lbs. of me (I was weighed under water) is bone and muscle, so I tend to require a lot of protein. I'll lose part of that muscle during the weightloss phase, that's inevitable (although I plan to continue to work out a lot). But, I think that's why I was hungry. I had a couple of incidents of head hunger: the smell of pizza one day was tough...my mom made enchilada casserole one day during Phase II, and that was tough to smell. But, generally speaking, I'm fine. As for laying on the side: I'm a side sleeper, too. With enough pillows I was able to do that at probably a week or more out. I was worried that I wouldn't sleep on my back, but that wasn't a problem at all. Getting out of bed was painful at the hospital (the first few days), particularly because some of the gas they filled my abdominal cavity with during the operation settled in my left shoulder...so it hurt both my shoulder and my stomach to get up. But as I said, the pain is more or less the way you feel when you do weightlifting or stomach crunches after you haven't worked out for a long time. It's not overwhelming, at all. At least not for me (I was LAP.) I was able to sleep on my back, much to my surprise. Even now, sometimes on the side is a bit painful. My inciscions are in the process of healing, and so...one or two of them gets a little sore from time to time...kind of a pulling feeling. I haven't slept on my stomach yet..although I'm thinking about getting a professional massage soon, so we'll see... No, I have a feeling that nothing much will bother my tummy...so I'm going to have to really struggle with the discipline component. I mean, sugar may be a problem...haven't tested that, don't plan to. Otherwise, I have not been sick yet at all, except a couple of times when I ate too fast (which was still very slow, many chews...etc.), I felt a bit of discomfort, as if something had lodged or was having a hard time getting through the pipes a bit. But no dumping yet...of course, I haven't eaten anything that hsould cause any dumping. But some people get sick alot even when they've eaten proper food, or so they claim. SO, I assume it's individual. ly, I have a finicky little tummy even without the surgery, so I've been pleasantly relieved that so far, so good. Still burbing a bit (because of the water, mostly), but I've been able to maintain my dignity on the other end... That's about it. Feel free to ask more questions, I'm happy to share. Robynnspecialkmix2000 wrote: Thanks for the response Robynn!Congrats on your 17lbs lost so far! Sounds like you are doing everything perfectly! Who was your surgeon? Thank you for all the good advice. Especially about the vites! I am a lot less nervous now that I have shopping to do to prepare for the big day.I have a couple more questions if you don't mind?Did you have a hard time once home in getting in and out of bed? Can you sleep on your side now? I am a side sleeper personally,so this worries me. Do you use protien shakes at all? Or just protien powder mixed into your food? I was thinking of doing the later. Also does food taste good at all when you do eat? Is it hard to want to eat anything at all? is a whole popsicle still considered a serving post op?I will stop now on the questions. Sorry if I asked too many. I wanted to attend the last support group meeting, but I was unable to schedule it in. Thanks again for the response!KayLap scheduled 6/28- Dr Baggs.> > Hi All,> > I have been lurking for quite some time now. I have been approved > for > > surgery with Dr Baggs, I actually go in on 6/28! The time has > flown > > by once that date was set a few weeks ago! I think I was still in > > denial for awhile, I stalled for about a year, thinking I could do > > this weight loss one last time without the surgery as my new tool > for > > the rest of my life. Finally I saw the light and am comfortable > with > > the pending surgery. :-) > > > > I am wondering on those of you post op- is there any advise you > can > > offer on my getting settled once back home from the hospital?> > Are there things you found helpful? > > What was the best way you divided up time for taking the vites? > > > > I will be at the next group meeting, but that isn't until after my > > surgery to ask all the questions I have.> > Any help now would be really appreciated!> > > > Orientation- 336 (lost 10 lbs prior to that)> > 6/7/05- 297.5 (every ounce counts)> > Dr. Baggs- Richmond Kaiser.> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ---------------------------------> > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 26, 2005 Report Share Posted June 26, 2005 No problem on the questions. Let's see: Dr. Fisher was my surgeon with Dr. Baggs assisting. A popsicle is considered water. Not food. (make sure it's sugar free). At my two week, I asked Dr. Baggs if it was still ok for me to do popsicles, and he said, "Sure, as many as you want." It's a good way to slowly get liquids. I haven't done any protein drinks. I'm trying to follow Richmond's guidelines. I've done a shake once, it is IsoKool, 90 calories, 22 gm. of protein, no fat, and like 1 g or less of sugar. That was because I was in a situation where I had no other food available. I don't rule out the use of protein shakes...it's just that I'm pretty early in the process yet...and they don't actually expect that you'll be able to get in all that protein during the first six weeks. After six weeks or so, you go to phase IV where you will be eating between four and six ounces per meal, in lieu of 2 oz. per meal. That's a more achievable objective. But none of us is going to starve to death in the first six weeks if we can't protein load. Don't get me wrong...every meal I focus on protein. It's not like I'm protein free, or anything. Taste is the same for me, I haven't noticed any real modifications. Except that when I was in phase 2, I was more in the mood for savory flavors as opposed to sweet (for example, cream soup instead of sugar free pudding). That's unusual for me. Otherwise, I think my tastes are pretty much the same...so far. Of course, I haven't been trying everything in the book. I noticed that skim milk mozzarella sticks were very hard for me to digest at first. They hurt going down. And water hurts sometimes, which is why I'm doind the popsicles (although I'm doing water, too.) As far as whether it is hard to eat anything at all...well, no, it's not hard. I find in the a.m., I forget to eat if I'm not on top of it...and with all of the sleeping I did the first couple of weeks, I would wind up having breakfast at 11 a.m., lunch around 3 and dinner around 9. I'm trying to adjust that a bit. And yes, there were times when I wasn't hungry at all...but there were also times when I was quite hungry. And a couple of times when I ate an additional serving of pudding or soup or something. I only did this twice, and I'm trying not to get in any habits. But, that was at the tail end of my two weeks, before I was advanced to protein...and I was hungry for several days. Only around dinner time, oddly enough. 145 lbs. of me (I was weighed under water) is bone and muscle, so I tend to require a lot of protein. I'll lose part of that muscle during the weightloss phase, that's inevitable (although I plan to continue to work out a lot). But, I think that's why I was hungry. I had a couple of incidents of head hunger: the smell of pizza one day was tough...my mom made enchilada casserole one day during Phase II, and that was tough to smell. But, generally speaking, I'm fine. As for laying on the side: I'm a side sleeper, too. With enough pillows I was able to do that at probably a week or more out. I was worried that I wouldn't sleep on my back, but that wasn't a problem at all. Getting out of bed was painful at the hospital (the first few days), particularly because some of the gas they filled my abdominal cavity with during the operation settled in my left shoulder...so it hurt both my shoulder and my stomach to get up. But as I said, the pain is more or less the way you feel when you do weightlifting or stomach crunches after you haven't worked out for a long time. It's not overwhelming, at all. At least not for me (I was LAP.) I was able to sleep on my back, much to my surprise. Even now, sometimes on the side is a bit painful. My inciscions are in the process of healing, and so...one or two of them gets a little sore from time to time...kind of a pulling feeling. I haven't slept on my stomach yet..although I'm thinking about getting a professional massage soon, so we'll see... No, I have a feeling that nothing much will bother my tummy...so I'm going to have to really struggle with the discipline component. I mean, sugar may be a problem...haven't tested that, don't plan to. Otherwise, I have not been sick yet at all, except a couple of times when I ate too fast (which was still very slow, many chews...etc.), I felt a bit of discomfort, as if something had lodged or was having a hard time getting through the pipes a bit. But no dumping yet...of course, I haven't eaten anything that hsould cause any dumping. But some people get sick alot even when they've eaten proper food, or so they claim. SO, I assume it's individual. ly, I have a finicky little tummy even without the surgery, so I've been pleasantly relieved that so far, so good. Still burbing a bit (because of the water, mostly), but I've been able to maintain my dignity on the other end... That's about it. Feel free to ask more questions, I'm happy to share. Robynnspecialkmix2000 wrote: Thanks for the response Robynn!Congrats on your 17lbs lost so far! Sounds like you are doing everything perfectly! Who was your surgeon? Thank you for all the good advice. Especially about the vites! I am a lot less nervous now that I have shopping to do to prepare for the big day.I have a couple more questions if you don't mind?Did you have a hard time once home in getting in and out of bed? Can you sleep on your side now? I am a side sleeper personally,so this worries me. Do you use protien shakes at all? Or just protien powder mixed into your food? I was thinking of doing the later. Also does food taste good at all when you do eat? Is it hard to want to eat anything at all? is a whole popsicle still considered a serving post op?I will stop now on the questions. Sorry if I asked too many. I wanted to attend the last support group meeting, but I was unable to schedule it in. Thanks again for the response!KayLap scheduled 6/28- Dr Baggs.> > Hi All,> > I have been lurking for quite some time now. I have been approved > for > > surgery with Dr Baggs, I actually go in on 6/28! The time has > flown > > by once that date was set a few weeks ago! I think I was still in > > denial for awhile, I stalled for about a year, thinking I could do > > this weight loss one last time without the surgery as my new tool > for > > the rest of my life. Finally I saw the light and am comfortable > with > > the pending surgery. :-) > > > > I am wondering on those of you post op- is there any advise you > can > > offer on my getting settled once back home from the hospital?> > Are there things you found helpful? > > What was the best way you divided up time for taking the vites? > > > > I will be at the next group meeting, but that isn't until after my > > surgery to ask all the questions I have.> > Any help now would be really appreciated!> > > > Orientation- 336 (lost 10 lbs prior to that)> > 6/7/05- 297.5 (every ounce counts)> > Dr. Baggs- Richmond Kaiser.> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ---------------------------------> > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 26, 2005 Report Share Posted June 26, 2005 Ah...ok. I thought Dr. Baggs said my six week (when I met with him at my 2 week), but no big thang...Tina wrote: Richmond now doesn't advance you to the final stage until 12 weeks post-op. I checked on this at my pre-surgery class. Tina> > > Hi All,> > > I have been lurking for quite some time now. I have been > approved > > for > > > surgery with Dr Baggs, I actually go in on 6/28! The time has > > flown > > > by once that date was set a few weeks ago! I think I was still > in > > > denial for awhile, I stalled for about a year, thinking I could > do > > > this weight loss one last time without the surgery as my new > tool > > for > > > the rest of my life. Finally I saw the light and am comfortable > > with > > > the pending surgery. :-) > > > > > > I am wondering on those of you post op- is there any advise you > > can > > > offer on my getting settled once back home from the hospital?> > > Are there things you found helpful? > > > What was the best way you divided up time for taking the vites? > > > > > > I will be at the next group meeting, but that isn't until after > my > > > surgery to ask all the questions I have.> > > Any help now would be really appreciated!> > > > > > Orientation- 336 (lost 10 lbs prior to that)> > > 6/7/05- 297.5 (every ounce counts)> > > Dr. Baggs- Richmond Kaiser.> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ---------------------------------> > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 26, 2005 Report Share Posted June 26, 2005 Ah...ok. I thought Dr. Baggs said my six week (when I met with him at my 2 week), but no big thang...Tina wrote: Richmond now doesn't advance you to the final stage until 12 weeks post-op. I checked on this at my pre-surgery class. Tina> > > Hi All,> > > I have been lurking for quite some time now. I have been > approved > > for > > > surgery with Dr Baggs, I actually go in on 6/28! The time has > > flown > > > by once that date was set a few weeks ago! I think I was still > in > > > denial for awhile, I stalled for about a year, thinking I could > do > > > this weight loss one last time without the surgery as my new > tool > > for > > > the rest of my life. Finally I saw the light and am comfortable > > with > > > the pending surgery. :-) > > > > > > I am wondering on those of you post op- is there any advise you > > can > > > offer on my getting settled once back home from the hospital?> > > Are there things you found helpful? > > > What was the best way you divided up time for taking the vites? > > > > > > I will be at the next group meeting, but that isn't until after > my > > > surgery to ask all the questions I have.> > > Any help now would be really appreciated!> > > > > > Orientation- 336 (lost 10 lbs prior to that)> > > 6/7/05- 297.5 (every ounce counts)> > > Dr. Baggs- Richmond Kaiser.> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ---------------------------------> > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 26, 2005 Report Share Posted June 26, 2005 Ah...ok. I thought Dr. Baggs said my six week (when I met with him at my 2 week), but no big thang...Tina wrote: Richmond now doesn't advance you to the final stage until 12 weeks post-op. I checked on this at my pre-surgery class. Tina> > > Hi All,> > > I have been lurking for quite some time now. I have been > approved > > for > > > surgery with Dr Baggs, I actually go in on 6/28! The time has > > flown > > > by once that date was set a few weeks ago! I think I was still > in > > > denial for awhile, I stalled for about a year, thinking I could > do > > > this weight loss one last time without the surgery as my new > tool > > for > > > the rest of my life. Finally I saw the light and am comfortable > > with > > > the pending surgery. :-) > > > > > > I am wondering on those of you post op- is there any advise you > > can > > > offer on my getting settled once back home from the hospital?> > > Are there things you found helpful? > > > What was the best way you divided up time for taking the vites? > > > > > > I will be at the next group meeting, but that isn't until after > my > > > surgery to ask all the questions I have.> > > Any help now would be really appreciated!> > > > > > Orientation- 336 (lost 10 lbs prior to that)> > > 6/7/05- 297.5 (every ounce counts)> > > Dr. Baggs- Richmond Kaiser.> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ---------------------------------> > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 27, 2005 Report Share Posted June 27, 2005 Robynn, SORRY, you will not be getting advanced until 12 weeks. They changed it. Try to hang in there but I know that I got real bored towards the end. Got tried of deli meat for real honey. When will you be coming back to work. I miss you and want to see you. Pam Marsh --- Robynn VanPatten robynnsf@...> wrote: > Ah...ok. I thought Dr. Baggs said my six week (when > I met with him at my 2 week), but no big thang... > > Tina ma2two@...> wrote:Richmond now > doesn't advance you to the final stage until 12 > weeks > post-op. I checked on this at my pre-surgery class. > > Tina > > > > Thanks for the response Robynn! > > Congrats on your 17lbs lost so far! Sounds like > you are doing > > everything perfectly! Who was your surgeon? > > Thank you for all the good advice. Especially > about the vites! I > am > > a lot less nervous now that I have shopping to do > to prepare for > the > > big day. > > I have a couple more questions if you don't mind? > > Did you have a hard time once home in getting in > and out of bed? > Can > > you sleep on your side now? I am a side sleeper > personally,so this > > worries me. > > Do you use protien shakes at all? Or just protien > powder mixed > === message truncated === __________________________________________________ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 27, 2005 Report Share Posted June 27, 2005 Robynn, SORRY, you will not be getting advanced until 12 weeks. They changed it. Try to hang in there but I know that I got real bored towards the end. Got tried of deli meat for real honey. When will you be coming back to work. I miss you and want to see you. Pam Marsh --- Robynn VanPatten robynnsf@...> wrote: > Ah...ok. I thought Dr. Baggs said my six week (when > I met with him at my 2 week), but no big thang... > > Tina ma2two@...> wrote:Richmond now > doesn't advance you to the final stage until 12 > weeks > post-op. I checked on this at my pre-surgery class. > > Tina > > > > Thanks for the response Robynn! > > Congrats on your 17lbs lost so far! Sounds like > you are doing > > everything perfectly! Who was your surgeon? > > Thank you for all the good advice. Especially > about the vites! I > am > > a lot less nervous now that I have shopping to do > to prepare for > the > > big day. > > I have a couple more questions if you don't mind? > > Did you have a hard time once home in getting in > and out of bed? > Can > > you sleep on your side now? I am a side sleeper > personally,so this > > worries me. > > Do you use protien shakes at all? Or just protien > powder mixed > === message truncated === __________________________________________________ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 27, 2005 Report Share Posted June 27, 2005 Hey there... Ok, for the Cream of Wheat, I just used Nabisco brand (it's the original.) My mom would make the one ounce of that, heat up some unsweetened applesauce, and add one packet of Splenda...and mix it all together. It actually was pretty tasty. As for nerves...hmmm...once I got to the hospital, I wasn't really nervous anymore. They were so professional, and I really felt like I was in good hands. I prayed for the surgeon, the anesthesiologist, the CRNA, the RNs and LVNs...and I prayed that God would guide their hands, keep them alert and skillful....that my body would cooperate, and that He would sustain me during the operation. That worked. Plus, I have had a life well-lived, you know? I mean, sure there are lots of things I want to do yet...particularly back in a thin body...but, ultimately my only fear about death is the effect on those I love who I would leave behind. I wrote letters to my key loved ones, and put it in a big envelope and gave it to one of my close friends. I asked her to give them back to me when I was out and ok. I wrote an e-mail to my ex-boyfriend, from whom I had been recently estranged, telling him that I forgave him for certain things that happened, and telling him that I would always care about him as a person...that I wished the best for him. I needed to do that, because I felt i had unfinished business with him. But, I decided to dwell on the positives. The afterwards. The weightloss. Ultimately, NONE of it was as scary as I thought it would be: the surgery, the post-surgery pain, even the inability to eat. All of it was quite manageable...not overwhelming, at all. And having my mommy there to help me was really great. We have a great/horrible relationship...and she's at her best when she is reallly needed. I enjoyed being pampered by her! I think having a positive attitude is important. You need to start just ASSUMING that you'll be ok. Tomorrow, just tell yourself...'OK, and now my dream begins!!" I wasn't as excited or as elated as some of the people on the board were...I must confess. Partly, it's because I only had about 8 days between making my weight and getting operated on...and I had a lot of stuff to attend to at work. Lots of last minute stuff to do...it kept me occupied in the practical realm...and I didn't have a lot of time to think until the day before. Tell yourself that you are going to get up and walk as soon as they ask you...and that you are going to push yourself a little bit. That you are young and strong and athletic, and that you can DO this. Decide to have a positive attitude with the staff. Decide that any pain you may feel is just temporary, to be expected, and you'll be JUST fine. Go in deciding that you are going to be the model patient. That's what I did...and I think I wound up having less pain because of it. I don't know about you, but when I dwell on pain, it gets worse!! Whereas, if I tell myself, "Buck up, girl! You are made of healthy peasant stock...no whiny wimps allowed!!" I start to believe that...and I feel better. As for bras, the shelf bra is a good idea. I didn't wear a bra home. (I'm not huge in that region, so it wasn't a big deal...I'm only a C. Barely now!) I haven't worn a bra very often, and when I do, I wear an athletic one that is made of tee shirt/lycra type material...And my incision between my breasts (just underneath the breasts) is the smallest and least noticeable...so, I think it wouldn't have been super irritated, anyway. I think it's best to try and go without for the first week or so, if possible, to give it time to heal. I'm finding the wasteband is the most difficult with regards to the incisions. Let's see....I'm not sure if I slept with my legs propped up. I was so out of it for a while, I have no memory (I'm a cheap date, so the anesthesia really put me under for a long time). Sometimes I propped up my news in the hospital afterwards. BRING YOUR TEDDY BEAR, or something soft and stuffed. Holding onto him was a big comfort, and helped me sleep even on my back. As for stitches...I didn't have any on the exterior. Just on the interior. NOt to say you shouldn't be mindful or careful...but you probably don't have to be as careful as you think you do at this moment. Good luck, Sweetie. You'll be FINE. And yes, tomorrow will begin a new life for you. Robynn Dr. Fisher, LAP RnY June 8, 2005 Orientation: 261 Surgery: 235.5 Today (less than three weeks out...three weeks on Wednesday): 216 Height: 5'6" specialkmix2000 wrote: Hi Robynn,Thanks again for all your wisdom! I don't know anyone that has had this surgery and it really settles my mind to know I can come here and get some answers. I can't believe tomorrow is the day. On the way to work this am, I felt like I was going to have an anxiety attack. How nervous were you once you were at the hospital? I can't imagine how I am going to sleep tonight.In prep for your surgery, did you drink some calming tea or something? Maybe you weren't nervous. I am typically not a nervous person, but I tell you even my feet were sweating this am! lolThank you for mentioning the level of pain association for the gas, I was wondering if it would be tolerable. Sounds like it will be okay.Did you sleep with your legs propped up when on your back? I am so afraid I will pop a stitch? I am scheduled for Lap as well. Were you able to wear a bra okay without it bothering your lap incisions? I am wondering if it might be better to wear one of those tank shirts with the built in shelf bra instead? I am happy to hear about the protein, I will wait on that then and concentrate on my sips instead. I have never tried cream of wheat, is there a good brand to recommend?Okay that is all for now. I may have a few more questions later on.Thanks for being so kind to respond and "hold my hand" so to speak.One day away from the NEW me!Kay> > > Hi All,> > > I have been lurking for quite some time now. I have been > approved > > for > > > surgery with Dr Baggs, I actually go in on 6/28! The time has > > flown > > > by once that date was set a few weeks ago! I think I was still > in > > > denial for awhile, I stalled for about a year, thinking I could > do > > > this weight loss one last time without the surgery as my new > tool > > for > > > the rest of my life. Finally I saw the light and am comfortable > > with > > > the pending surgery. :-) > > > > > > I am wondering on those of you post op- is there any advise you > > can > > > offer on my getting settled once back home from the hospital?> > > Are there things you found helpful? > > > What was the best way you divided up time for taking the vites? > > > > > > I will be at the next group meeting, but that isn't until after > my > > > surgery to ask all the questions I have.> > > Any help now would be really appreciated!> > > > > > Orientation- 336 (lost 10 lbs prior to that)> > > 6/7/05- 297.5 (every ounce counts)> > > Dr. Baggs- Richmond Kaiser.> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ---------------------------------> > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 27, 2005 Report Share Posted June 27, 2005 Hey there... Ok, for the Cream of Wheat, I just used Nabisco brand (it's the original.) My mom would make the one ounce of that, heat up some unsweetened applesauce, and add one packet of Splenda...and mix it all together. It actually was pretty tasty. As for nerves...hmmm...once I got to the hospital, I wasn't really nervous anymore. They were so professional, and I really felt like I was in good hands. I prayed for the surgeon, the anesthesiologist, the CRNA, the RNs and LVNs...and I prayed that God would guide their hands, keep them alert and skillful....that my body would cooperate, and that He would sustain me during the operation. That worked. Plus, I have had a life well-lived, you know? I mean, sure there are lots of things I want to do yet...particularly back in a thin body...but, ultimately my only fear about death is the effect on those I love who I would leave behind. I wrote letters to my key loved ones, and put it in a big envelope and gave it to one of my close friends. I asked her to give them back to me when I was out and ok. I wrote an e-mail to my ex-boyfriend, from whom I had been recently estranged, telling him that I forgave him for certain things that happened, and telling him that I would always care about him as a person...that I wished the best for him. I needed to do that, because I felt i had unfinished business with him. But, I decided to dwell on the positives. The afterwards. The weightloss. Ultimately, NONE of it was as scary as I thought it would be: the surgery, the post-surgery pain, even the inability to eat. All of it was quite manageable...not overwhelming, at all. And having my mommy there to help me was really great. We have a great/horrible relationship...and she's at her best when she is reallly needed. I enjoyed being pampered by her! I think having a positive attitude is important. You need to start just ASSUMING that you'll be ok. Tomorrow, just tell yourself...'OK, and now my dream begins!!" I wasn't as excited or as elated as some of the people on the board were...I must confess. Partly, it's because I only had about 8 days between making my weight and getting operated on...and I had a lot of stuff to attend to at work. Lots of last minute stuff to do...it kept me occupied in the practical realm...and I didn't have a lot of time to think until the day before. Tell yourself that you are going to get up and walk as soon as they ask you...and that you are going to push yourself a little bit. That you are young and strong and athletic, and that you can DO this. Decide to have a positive attitude with the staff. Decide that any pain you may feel is just temporary, to be expected, and you'll be JUST fine. Go in deciding that you are going to be the model patient. That's what I did...and I think I wound up having less pain because of it. I don't know about you, but when I dwell on pain, it gets worse!! Whereas, if I tell myself, "Buck up, girl! You are made of healthy peasant stock...no whiny wimps allowed!!" I start to believe that...and I feel better. As for bras, the shelf bra is a good idea. I didn't wear a bra home. (I'm not huge in that region, so it wasn't a big deal...I'm only a C. Barely now!) I haven't worn a bra very often, and when I do, I wear an athletic one that is made of tee shirt/lycra type material...And my incision between my breasts (just underneath the breasts) is the smallest and least noticeable...so, I think it wouldn't have been super irritated, anyway. I think it's best to try and go without for the first week or so, if possible, to give it time to heal. I'm finding the wasteband is the most difficult with regards to the incisions. Let's see....I'm not sure if I slept with my legs propped up. I was so out of it for a while, I have no memory (I'm a cheap date, so the anesthesia really put me under for a long time). Sometimes I propped up my news in the hospital afterwards. BRING YOUR TEDDY BEAR, or something soft and stuffed. Holding onto him was a big comfort, and helped me sleep even on my back. As for stitches...I didn't have any on the exterior. Just on the interior. NOt to say you shouldn't be mindful or careful...but you probably don't have to be as careful as you think you do at this moment. Good luck, Sweetie. You'll be FINE. And yes, tomorrow will begin a new life for you. Robynn Dr. Fisher, LAP RnY June 8, 2005 Orientation: 261 Surgery: 235.5 Today (less than three weeks out...three weeks on Wednesday): 216 Height: 5'6" specialkmix2000 wrote: Hi Robynn,Thanks again for all your wisdom! I don't know anyone that has had this surgery and it really settles my mind to know I can come here and get some answers. I can't believe tomorrow is the day. On the way to work this am, I felt like I was going to have an anxiety attack. How nervous were you once you were at the hospital? I can't imagine how I am going to sleep tonight.In prep for your surgery, did you drink some calming tea or something? Maybe you weren't nervous. I am typically not a nervous person, but I tell you even my feet were sweating this am! lolThank you for mentioning the level of pain association for the gas, I was wondering if it would be tolerable. Sounds like it will be okay.Did you sleep with your legs propped up when on your back? I am so afraid I will pop a stitch? I am scheduled for Lap as well. Were you able to wear a bra okay without it bothering your lap incisions? I am wondering if it might be better to wear one of those tank shirts with the built in shelf bra instead? I am happy to hear about the protein, I will wait on that then and concentrate on my sips instead. I have never tried cream of wheat, is there a good brand to recommend?Okay that is all for now. I may have a few more questions later on.Thanks for being so kind to respond and "hold my hand" so to speak.One day away from the NEW me!Kay> > > Hi All,> > > I have been lurking for quite some time now. I have been > approved > > for > > > surgery with Dr Baggs, I actually go in on 6/28! The time has > > flown > > > by once that date was set a few weeks ago! I think I was still > in > > > denial for awhile, I stalled for about a year, thinking I could > do > > > this weight loss one last time without the surgery as my new > tool > > for > > > the rest of my life. Finally I saw the light and am comfortable > > with > > > the pending surgery. :-) > > > > > > I am wondering on those of you post op- is there any advise you > > can > > > offer on my getting settled once back home from the hospital?> > > Are there things you found helpful? > > > What was the best way you divided up time for taking the vites? > > > > > > I will be at the next group meeting, but that isn't until after > my > > > surgery to ask all the questions I have.> > > Any help now would be really appreciated!> > > > > > Orientation- 336 (lost 10 lbs prior to that)> > > 6/7/05- 297.5 (every ounce counts)> > > Dr. Baggs- Richmond Kaiser.> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ---------------------------------> > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 27, 2005 Report Share Posted June 27, 2005 Hey there... Ok, for the Cream of Wheat, I just used Nabisco brand (it's the original.) My mom would make the one ounce of that, heat up some unsweetened applesauce, and add one packet of Splenda...and mix it all together. It actually was pretty tasty. As for nerves...hmmm...once I got to the hospital, I wasn't really nervous anymore. They were so professional, and I really felt like I was in good hands. I prayed for the surgeon, the anesthesiologist, the CRNA, the RNs and LVNs...and I prayed that God would guide their hands, keep them alert and skillful....that my body would cooperate, and that He would sustain me during the operation. That worked. Plus, I have had a life well-lived, you know? I mean, sure there are lots of things I want to do yet...particularly back in a thin body...but, ultimately my only fear about death is the effect on those I love who I would leave behind. I wrote letters to my key loved ones, and put it in a big envelope and gave it to one of my close friends. I asked her to give them back to me when I was out and ok. I wrote an e-mail to my ex-boyfriend, from whom I had been recently estranged, telling him that I forgave him for certain things that happened, and telling him that I would always care about him as a person...that I wished the best for him. I needed to do that, because I felt i had unfinished business with him. But, I decided to dwell on the positives. The afterwards. The weightloss. Ultimately, NONE of it was as scary as I thought it would be: the surgery, the post-surgery pain, even the inability to eat. All of it was quite manageable...not overwhelming, at all. And having my mommy there to help me was really great. We have a great/horrible relationship...and she's at her best when she is reallly needed. I enjoyed being pampered by her! I think having a positive attitude is important. You need to start just ASSUMING that you'll be ok. Tomorrow, just tell yourself...'OK, and now my dream begins!!" I wasn't as excited or as elated as some of the people on the board were...I must confess. Partly, it's because I only had about 8 days between making my weight and getting operated on...and I had a lot of stuff to attend to at work. Lots of last minute stuff to do...it kept me occupied in the practical realm...and I didn't have a lot of time to think until the day before. Tell yourself that you are going to get up and walk as soon as they ask you...and that you are going to push yourself a little bit. That you are young and strong and athletic, and that you can DO this. Decide to have a positive attitude with the staff. Decide that any pain you may feel is just temporary, to be expected, and you'll be JUST fine. Go in deciding that you are going to be the model patient. That's what I did...and I think I wound up having less pain because of it. I don't know about you, but when I dwell on pain, it gets worse!! Whereas, if I tell myself, "Buck up, girl! You are made of healthy peasant stock...no whiny wimps allowed!!" I start to believe that...and I feel better. As for bras, the shelf bra is a good idea. I didn't wear a bra home. (I'm not huge in that region, so it wasn't a big deal...I'm only a C. Barely now!) I haven't worn a bra very often, and when I do, I wear an athletic one that is made of tee shirt/lycra type material...And my incision between my breasts (just underneath the breasts) is the smallest and least noticeable...so, I think it wouldn't have been super irritated, anyway. I think it's best to try and go without for the first week or so, if possible, to give it time to heal. I'm finding the wasteband is the most difficult with regards to the incisions. Let's see....I'm not sure if I slept with my legs propped up. I was so out of it for a while, I have no memory (I'm a cheap date, so the anesthesia really put me under for a long time). Sometimes I propped up my news in the hospital afterwards. BRING YOUR TEDDY BEAR, or something soft and stuffed. Holding onto him was a big comfort, and helped me sleep even on my back. As for stitches...I didn't have any on the exterior. Just on the interior. NOt to say you shouldn't be mindful or careful...but you probably don't have to be as careful as you think you do at this moment. Good luck, Sweetie. You'll be FINE. And yes, tomorrow will begin a new life for you. Robynn Dr. Fisher, LAP RnY June 8, 2005 Orientation: 261 Surgery: 235.5 Today (less than three weeks out...three weeks on Wednesday): 216 Height: 5'6" specialkmix2000 wrote: Hi Robynn,Thanks again for all your wisdom! I don't know anyone that has had this surgery and it really settles my mind to know I can come here and get some answers. I can't believe tomorrow is the day. On the way to work this am, I felt like I was going to have an anxiety attack. How nervous were you once you were at the hospital? I can't imagine how I am going to sleep tonight.In prep for your surgery, did you drink some calming tea or something? Maybe you weren't nervous. I am typically not a nervous person, but I tell you even my feet were sweating this am! lolThank you for mentioning the level of pain association for the gas, I was wondering if it would be tolerable. Sounds like it will be okay.Did you sleep with your legs propped up when on your back? I am so afraid I will pop a stitch? I am scheduled for Lap as well. Were you able to wear a bra okay without it bothering your lap incisions? I am wondering if it might be better to wear one of those tank shirts with the built in shelf bra instead? I am happy to hear about the protein, I will wait on that then and concentrate on my sips instead. I have never tried cream of wheat, is there a good brand to recommend?Okay that is all for now. I may have a few more questions later on.Thanks for being so kind to respond and "hold my hand" so to speak.One day away from the NEW me!Kay> > > Hi All,> > > I have been lurking for quite some time now. I have been > approved > > for > > > surgery with Dr Baggs, I actually go in on 6/28! The time has > > flown > > > by once that date was set a few weeks ago! I think I was still > in > > > denial for awhile, I stalled for about a year, thinking I could > do > > > this weight loss one last time without the surgery as my new > tool > > for > > > the rest of my life. Finally I saw the light and am comfortable > > with > > > the pending surgery. :-) > > > > > > I am wondering on those of you post op- is there any advise you > > can > > > offer on my getting settled once back home from the hospital?> > > Are there things you found helpful? > > > What was the best way you divided up time for taking the vites? > > > > > > I will be at the next group meeting, but that isn't until after > my > > > surgery to ask all the questions I have.> > > Any help now would be really appreciated!> > > > > > Orientation- 336 (lost 10 lbs prior to that)> > > 6/7/05- 297.5 (every ounce counts)> > > Dr. Baggs- Richmond Kaiser.> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ---------------------------------> > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 27, 2005 Report Share Posted June 27, 2005 I've been eating fish and cottage cheese and a lot of other things...so I'm fine with that. I think I'm coming back either Wednesday or Thursday. My throat problem (the beginning of a cold or bronchitis) will determine that!! I miss you, too. RobynnPamela A Marsh wrote: Robynn, SORRY, you will not be getting advanced until12 weeks. They changed it. Try to hang in there butI know that I got real bored towards the end. Gottried of deli meat for real honey. When will you be coming back to work. I miss you andwant to see you.Pam Marsh--- Robynn VanPatten wrote:> Ah...ok. I thought Dr. Baggs said my six week (when> I met with him at my 2 week), but no big thang...> > Tina wrote:Richmond now> doesn't advance you to the final stage until 12> weeks > post-op. I checked on this at my pre-surgery class. > > Tina> > > > Thanks for the response Robynn!> > Congrats on your 17lbs lost so far! Sounds like> you are doing > > everything perfectly! Who was your surgeon? > > Thank you for all the good advice. Especially> about the vites! I > am > > a lot less nervous now that I have shopping to do> to prepare for > the > > big day.> > I have a couple more questions if you don't mind?> > Did you have a hard time once home in getting in> and out of bed? > Can > > you sleep on your side now? I am a side sleeper> personally,so this > > worries me. > > Do you use protien shakes at all? Or just protien> powder mixed > === message truncated ===__________________________________________________ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 27, 2005 Report Share Posted June 27, 2005 I've been eating fish and cottage cheese and a lot of other things...so I'm fine with that. I think I'm coming back either Wednesday or Thursday. My throat problem (the beginning of a cold or bronchitis) will determine that!! I miss you, too. RobynnPamela A Marsh wrote: Robynn, SORRY, you will not be getting advanced until12 weeks. They changed it. Try to hang in there butI know that I got real bored towards the end. Gottried of deli meat for real honey. When will you be coming back to work. I miss you andwant to see you.Pam Marsh--- Robynn VanPatten wrote:> Ah...ok. I thought Dr. Baggs said my six week (when> I met with him at my 2 week), but no big thang...> > Tina wrote:Richmond now> doesn't advance you to the final stage until 12> weeks > post-op. I checked on this at my pre-surgery class. > > Tina> > > > Thanks for the response Robynn!> > Congrats on your 17lbs lost so far! Sounds like> you are doing > > everything perfectly! Who was your surgeon? > > Thank you for all the good advice. Especially> about the vites! I > am > > a lot less nervous now that I have shopping to do> to prepare for > the > > big day.> > I have a couple more questions if you don't mind?> > Did you have a hard time once home in getting in> and out of bed? > Can > > you sleep on your side now? I am a side sleeper> personally,so this > > worries me. > > Do you use protien shakes at all? Or just protien> powder mixed > === message truncated ===__________________________________________________ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 27, 2005 Report Share Posted June 27, 2005 Congrats Kay and best of luck to you! LTLJSMOM From: specialkmix2000 Sent: Monday, June 27, 2005 2:34 PMTo: gastric-bypass-support-kaiser-patients Subject: Re: Sugery 6/28!! Hi Robynn!I just got my call from the surgery dept. Tomorrow I go in at 11:30 and go to the OR at 1. YAHOO!! Kinda sucks that it wasn't first thing in the am, but at least I can sleep in for once(?). I am sure I will be up till 1 or 2 tonight. I usually can't sleep just for a flight out of town. lol So I know I am in for a long night. Anyway, thank you for the tips! I wrote down the cream of wheat receipe. Sounds good. :-) That is so nice you have your mommy to take care of you. Mine is letting my husband do all that pampering instead. But he is a close second to her, so all is good. You really inspired me to write letters to loved ones. I think that is the nagging feeling I am having. You hit it on the head when you said, "ultimately my only fear about death is the effect on those I love who I would leave behind". I am going to take quiet time tonight and write to everyone, and even to symbolicly start "new" with my life, getting rid of the emotional baggage is a great idea. I haven't used a journal as a tool in a long time and I think I will buy a really nice looking one after work on the way home. I am glad to hear that the pain is managable. I just don't like not konwing what to expect. I wouldn't feel so apprehensive if I had some other surgery that I had gone through previously. Hearing your experience has REALLY put me at ease and I can't thank you enough. I have printed out what you wrote to remind myself to stick to my resolve that I can DO this! lol NO wimpy whiney girl for sure! I can't believe it, but you answered all my questions and now I feel really confident, secure and READY for surgery!!Take care, KayOh I will post after I am back home that I made it safely to the "other side". I just can't wait!You go girl on your progress! You are awesome and a great inspiration!> > > > Hi All,> > > > I have been lurking for quite some time now. I have been > > approved > > > for > > > > surgery with Dr Baggs, I actually go in on 6/28! The time has > > > flown > > > > by once that date was set a few weeks ago! I think I was still > > in > > > > denial for awhile, I stalled for about a year, thinking I could > > do > > > > this weight loss one last time without the surgery as my new > > tool > > > for > > > > the rest of my life. Finally I saw the light and am comfortable > > > with > > > > the pending surgery. :-) > > > > > > > > I am wondering on those of you post op- is there any advise you > > > can > > > > offer on my getting settled once back home from the hospital?> > > > Are there things you found helpful? > > > > What was the best way you divided up time for taking the vites? > > > > > > > > I will be at the next group meeting, but that isn't until after > > my > > > > surgery to ask all the questions I have.> > > > Any help now would be really appreciated!> > > > > > > > Orientation- 336 (lost 10 lbs prior to that)> > > > 6/7/05- 297.5 (every ounce counts)> > > > Dr. Baggs- Richmond Kaiser.> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ---------------------------------> > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 27, 2005 Report Share Posted June 27, 2005 Im glad you are excited - I'm feeling that way just leading up to Orientation (Tuesday) - I can't even imagine the butterflies floating around in you right now! LTLJSMOM From: specialkmix2000 Sent: Monday, June 27, 2005 2:38 PMTo: gastric-bypass-support-kaiser-patients Subject: Re: Sugery 6/28!! Thanks LTLJSMOM! Now I have warm fuzzies! :-) Kay> > > > > Hi All,> > > > > I have been lurking for quite some time now. I have been > > > approved > > > > for > > > > > surgery with Dr Baggs, I actually go in on 6/28! The time has > > > > flown > > > > > by once that date was set a few weeks ago! I think I was > still > > > in > > > > > denial for awhile, I stalled for about a year, thinking I > could > > > do > > > > > this weight loss one last time without the surgery as my new > > > tool > > > > for > > > > > the rest of my life. Finally I saw the light and am > comfortable > > > > with > > > > > the pending surgery. :-) > > > > > > > > > > I am wondering on those of you post op- is there any advise > you > > > > can > > > > > offer on my getting settled once back home from the hospital?> > > > > Are there things you found helpful? > > > > > What was the best way you divided up time for taking the > vites? > > > > > > > > > > I will be at the next group meeting, but that isn't until > after > > > my > > > > > surgery to ask all the questions I have.> > > > > Any help now would be really appreciated!> > > > > > > > > > Orientation- 336 (lost 10 lbs prior to that)> > > > > 6/7/05- 297.5 (every ounce counts)> > > > > Dr. Baggs- Richmond Kaiser.> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ---------------------------------> > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 27, 2005 Report Share Posted June 27, 2005 Kay, best of luck to you and I can't wait to hear a post letting us know that all is well. Peace and blessing :>) Pam Marsh --- bhokoana@... wrote: > Im glad you are excited - I'm feeling that way just > leading up to > Orientation (Tuesday) - I can't even imagine the > butterflies floating around > in you right now! > > LTLJSMOM > > _____ > > From: specialkmix2000 > > Sent: Monday, June 27, 2005 2:38 PM > To: > gastric-bypass-support-kaiser-patients > Subject: > Re: Sugery 6/28!! > > > > Thanks LTLJSMOM! > Now I have warm fuzzies! > :-) > > Kay > > > > > > Hey there... > > > Ok, for the Cream of Wheat, I just used Nabisco > brand (it's the > > original.) My mom would make the one ounce of > that, heat up some > > unsweetened applesauce, and add one packet of > Splenda...and mix it > > all together. It actually was pretty tasty. > > > > > > As for nerves...hmmm...once I got to the > hospital, I wasn't > really > > nervous anymore. They were so professional, and I > really felt like > I > > was in good hands. I prayed for the surgeon, the > anesthesiologist, > > the CRNA, the RNs and LVNs...and I prayed that God > would guide > their > > hands, keep them alert and skillful....that my > body would > cooperate, > > and that He would sustain me during the operation. > That worked. > > > > > > Plus, I have had a life well-lived, you know? I > mean, sure there > > are lots of things I want to do yet...particularly > back in a thin > > body...but, ultimately my only fear about death is > the effect on > > those I love who I would leave behind. I wrote > letters to my key > > loved ones, and put it in a big envelope and gave > it to one of my > > close friends. I asked her to give them back to > me when I was out > > and ok. I wrote an e-mail to my ex-boyfriend, > from whom I had been > > recently estranged, telling him that I forgave him > for certain > things > > that happened, and telling him that I would always > care about him > as > > a person...that I wished the best for him. I > needed to do that, > > because I felt i had unfinished business with him. > > > > > > But, I decided to dwell on the positives. The > afterwards. The > > weightloss. Ultimately, NONE of it was as scary > as I thought it > > would be: the surgery, the post-surgery pain, > even the inability > to > > eat. All of it was quite manageable...not > overwhelming, at all. > And > > having my mommy there to help me was really great. > We have a > > great/horrible relationship...and she's at her > best when she is > > reallly needed. I enjoyed being pampered by her! > > > > > > I think having a positive attitude is important. > You need to > start > > just ASSUMING that you'll be ok. Tomorrow, just > tell > yourself...'OK, > > and now my dream begins!! " I wasn't as excited or > as === message truncated === __________________________________________________ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 27, 2005 Report Share Posted June 27, 2005 Wonderful!! I'm so glad you are starting to feel a little more at ease. It was the only major surgery I have ever had, so I had the same apprehensions as I got a little closer. Pam can tell you, I was peppering her with questions CONSTANTLY. So, as I said, i was quite surprised at how easy it all was! I am so happy for you, and I'm really glad you are going to do some writing. It helped me a lot. First of all, I reiterated in all of my letters not only how much I loved them...but the fact that I was doing this for ME. Because I'm not happy the way I am...fearing everything I ever read about my future. You know, "Obesity causes cancer, heart disease, sexual problems, depression" blah blah blah. It was terrifying. And I felt hopeless, like there was just no way for me to get this thing under control. It was like a double whammy: on the one hand, I was fat, and had to suffer the indignity, self-esteem morass. And then, I also had the gift that keeps on giving: a fear of cancer and other dread diseases that this flab carries with it. Great. Thanks. So, now I have hope. Hope for the future. Hope for health, for happiness, for a bite at the proverbial apple (no skin, and heated up for now..LOL). This is my shot, and I had to take it. I needed hope in my life. I needed to take this step. Good job, girly girl!! Now, start writing...and guess what? Tomorrow...you will be on your path to health. Isn't that amazing???? Robynnspecialkmix2000 wrote: Hi Robynn!I just got my call from the surgery dept. Tomorrow I go in at 11:30 and go to the OR at 1. YAHOO!! Kinda sucks that it wasn't first thing in the am, but at least I can sleep in for once(?). I am sure I will be up till 1 or 2 tonight. I usually can't sleep just for a flight out of town. lol So I know I am in for a long night. Anyway, thank you for the tips! I wrote down the cream of wheat receipe. Sounds good. :-) That is so nice you have your mommy to take care of you. Mine is letting my husband do all that pampering instead. But he is a close second to her, so all is good. You really inspired me to write letters to loved ones. I think that is the nagging feeling I am having. You hit it on the head when you said, "ultimately my only fear about death is the effect on those I love who I would leave behind". I am going to take quiet time tonight and write to everyone, and even to symbolicly start "new" with my life, getting rid of the emotional baggage is a great idea. I haven't used a journal as a tool in a long time and I think I will buy a really nice looking one after work on the way home. I am glad to hear that the pain is managable. I just don't like not konwing what to expect. I wouldn't feel so apprehensive if I had some other surgery that I had gone through previously. Hearing your experience has REALLY put me at ease and I can't thank you enough. I have printed out what you wrote to remind myself to stick to my resolve that I can DO this! lol NO wimpy whiney girl for sure! I can't believe it, but you answered all my questions and now I feel really confident, secure and READY for surgery!!Take care, KayOh I will post after I am back home that I made it safely to the "other side". I just can't wait!You go girl on your progress! You are awesome and a great inspiration!> > > > Hi All,> > > > I have been lurking for quite some time now. I have been > > approved > > > for > > > > surgery with Dr Baggs, I actually go in on 6/28! The time has > > > flown > > > > by once that date was set a few weeks ago! I think I was still > > in > > > > denial for awhile, I stalled for about a year, thinking I could > > do > > > > this weight loss one last time without the surgery as my new > > tool > > > for > > > > the rest of my life. Finally I saw the light and am comfortable > > > with > > > > the pending surgery. :-) > > > > > > > > I am wondering on those of you post op- is there any advise you > > > can > > > > offer on my getting settled once back home from the hospital?> > > > Are there things you found helpful? > > > > What was the best way you divided up time for taking the vites? > > > > > > > > I will be at the next group meeting, but that isn't until after > > my > > > > surgery to ask all the questions I have.> > > > Any help now would be really appreciated!> > > > > > > > Orientation- 336 (lost 10 lbs prior to that)> > > > 6/7/05- 297.5 (every ounce counts)> > > > Dr. Baggs- Richmond Kaiser.> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ---------------------------------> > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 30, 2005 Report Share Posted June 30, 2005 Kay...hope things went extra terriffic!! Laurie ____________________________________________________ Yahoo! Sports Rekindle the Rivalries. Sign up for Fantasy Football http://football.fantasysports.yahoo.com Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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