Feeling Better than Yesterday...

Today is much better than yesterday. I am pretty much able to get up with little or no assistance now. (My bed is kind of high - didn't realize that would be work). I could always walk around and even go up and down stairs right after surgery. Soreness has been replaced with a feeling like a muscle that has been really worked out. The only thing that is still a bit problematic is cleaning myself well after using the bathroom. I can't fully stretch yet. Thank goodness for showers and the fact that my wounds closed up with some sort of "superglue" so they can get wet. Sorry if that is a bit more than you wanted to know, but there are lots of things that I didn't really consider. I was always thinking long term, never week one after surgery.

Hello I'm having surgery 2/19 I'm ready. Could you give me some do's & don't? They say you can only drink small amounts does that mean 3 swallows, 1/4 cups before you feel full? IzzeiBell

As you get to know your limits everything is in small amounts. In terms of sips I sip (swallow) about two at a time, then wait a minute or two, and sip again. Liquid seems to go down (on me) with no difficulty. it takes me about 10 minutes to get through a Boost high protein energy drink (liquid). I am sure I can get through it quicker, but do not want to push it just yet. In terms of feeling full - today is my day 4 after being banded and I haven't felt hungry yet - thirsty yes, but no hunger for food (desire a bit) - my daughter the same - we are taking in the liquids because we know we need to, but based on what I've read the "hungry" will come soon.

As you prepare for your surgery, based on your doctor's recommendations of course, have what you need in your house a ahead of time, chewable vitamins, high protein drinks that you like, broth, sugar free jello and popsicles... These are things you will need to select because others despite their best intentions will not always make smart choices for you (this is experience speaking).

Also, make sure for your first day or two some is there to help you get up and lay down - you may not need it, but that was something I didn't realize I would need and I did (luckily my husband was there).

Finally, depending on your size, flexibility, and soreness level have a plan as to how you will clean yourself after using the bathroom (another thing I didn't think about ahead of time). Needless to say its a temporary thing, that may not apply to you, but its important.

Hope this is helpful.

Lynn thank you so much for some great advice. My husband will be here to help me & my doggies will be here to comfort me also. I'm from Ohio 5'8 290lbs will be 50 in july YEA HA.....I would like to stay in touch with you for pointers & friends. What kind of chewable vitamins do you take.Yes I'm going to the store this week and getting s/f jello,broth,popsicles. Also what kind of protein drinks do you use?I'm glad your doing well & have the support, this is a life style change for all of us & a good one. I'm really excited about the surgery. I'm not doing so good on my per-opt right now but I'm trying , how do you do on your per-opt?The weather here in Ohio is so cold about 20 degrees & we have about 13/15 inches of snow on the ground & suppose to get more tonight or tomorrow, I'm so ready for Spring. We just bought a 25ft camper last Oct & only got to use it once & looking forward to this summer. Well you take care keep in touch & Happy Valentines Day...

IzzieBell