HW 223

SW 213 (day of surgery)

I had the gastric sleeve yesterday and I was released from the hospital today. I was in patient less than 24 hours. Had surgery at approximately 2:30 PM and was released today at noon. My surgery lasted for approximately 20 minutes and the surgeon reported that he wished all his surgeries were as easy as mine. I was so excited to get this over with. My journey started Spring 2015. I jumped through all the hoops with the 6 months supervised diet, psych eval, sleep studies, support groups, nutrition class... and bam the day was finally here. I arrived in PACU after surgery and my only complaint was dry mouth. I had very little pain. Got to my room and after about an hour the gas pain kicked in. It was very tolerable! I was able to begin walking immediately. Throughout the evening/night I had 1.5 mg of dilaudid and 3 percocets, with my last dose being 7:00 AM this morning. I was discharged and able to walk all the way out of the hospital to the parking lot without any difficulties. I arrived home and it was nice to take a long nap in my own bed. Oh, also, I didn't experience any nausea! NONE!

Now.... the clock battle! Every 15 mins you must drink! This is tiring, but this too shall pass. In the hospital this morning they gave me some protein tomato soup, which can be purchased at New Life Bariatrics. I really enjoyed the soup! It was a good break from the protein shakes. I have looked at GNC and the Vitamin Shoppe for protein soups, but couldn't find them, so I went ahead and ordered 2 boxes this evening. I started with 1 oz every 15 mins, but once I passed gas, could increase to 2 oz. However, you can only have the protein once per hour. All the other 15 mins, I have been drinking G2. I keep saying this too shall pass! 4 weeks! I am hoping that when I go to 2 week follow-up that I an progress onto phase 2. We shall see! Also, popsicles were a life saver last night after surgery. My throat was so dry!

My journey has officially began and I am excited for the changes!