MINI-Me

I was open with my kids too (19, 16, and 8) ... For the youngest, I told him that mommy needed her tummy fixed because it made her want to eat too much. I showed him some diagrams and he thought it was kinda cool - but not very interested. What was funny was when I returned home. He had gotten it in his head that I would come home skinny. Boy! Did I disappoint him! But, now he makes comments like "I like hugging you and reaching all the way around". Makes me smile everytime!

I may have asked you this already, so forgive me if this is a repeat ... But, are you going to attend the VSG Meetings at Steven's Hospital? The next one is Tuesday, the 20th from 7:00 - 8:30 in the cafeteria (kind of ironic - huh)? Melanie distributes materials for the Facilitator to review with the group. It's nice to have support - especially when you are learning how to use your tool. Let me know if you have any questions.

Very excellent advice - I've marked the ones that EVERYONE should remember (or at least I humbly think so! :thumbup:) 1. I am pleased I had the procedure but this is a BIG DAMN DEAL! 2. Never underestimate how kind strangers can be. 5. Heating pads really help with gas pains. 6. Walk every chance you can post op. 8. Don't overpack 9. Allow people to help you. Even if you have to ask. 11. I am really blessed to have a wonderful support group at home. 12. Don't overpack 13. Don't overpack 14. Don't overpack 15. Don't overpack 16. Don't overpack 17. Don't overpack 18. Don't overpack 19. Don't overpack 20. Don't overpack Seriously, glad to hear that you are doing well & back home safe and sound. Can't wait to hear your report next Monday!

I also had my surgery in the States, but traveled to find a surgeon that I trusted and could afford. (Went through Medical Tourism and spent over 1/2 what I was quoted to stay in town & that included hotel stays, etc.) Sounds like there are definite options in the States that are affordable. But, definitely do your research. Just because they are close, does not mean they are good. Let us know if we can help you out in any way.

Tiff - That would be great! I'm sure we can work something out on FB. I have it on my phone so I'm always getting messages. As for the other responses - thank you. I definitely need to get off my butt (at the rate it's shrinking, I need to do something to keep it's shape)! I like the M,W,Th idea. I'm thinking of using my Wii Fit for those nights to get in some cardio (I'll just take an extra dose of my inhaler if needed). I will also look into Water aerobics - I think I can get a punch card at the high school & go at least 1 night a week. (I'll also look and see if I can check out a Jillian DVD and see if I think I can do that.) I bought a new version of the old Thigh Master (or are people on here too young to remember those) to help with the jiggly thighs. What I would really like are some additional ideas for toning. Tiff - what is a standing crunch? What can I do to help with the bat arms? Like I said, I am so out of shape & don't know a lot about form. So, if you know any websites I can check out, I'd be very appreciative. :thumbup: Once again, I appreciate your support. Time to get off the couch (even though it is sooooooooo comfy!)

What an awesome story! Thanks for sharing. Best of luck to both of you on this journey. I'm sure it will be nice for you guys to have each other to rely on - and think of the savings on groceries!!!

Welcome! You've come to the right place for understanding and support. Please keep us updated on your progress.

It really does get better. My surgery was a lot harder than I antcipated too. Just take it one day at a time - you are just about ready to turn that corner!

Sounds like a good plan to me! :sad0: You would probably be surprised how few of us met our Protein goals the first month.

Personally, I think it's good that she is concerned. We are talking major surgery here. But, keep investigating and learning all you can. That way you will KNOW it's the right surgery for you if you decide to go for it.

You can soooooooooooo do this. It's frustrating when you are learning to use your tool - and the battles can be weary. But, you are doing awesome. You'll figure out what works and doesn't work for you very soon. Are you on mushies yet? What are you allowed to eat at this stage? What works well? Focus on those things first. Hopefully, you can get rid of those Protein shakes/shots soon - I get most of my protein from food now (thank goodness!). PM me if you need additional support. We have all been where you are now. Chin up! You are going to rock this!!!!

You are right, there are a lot of things that impact the overall sleeve size. I had a 36 and so did my friend. The surgeon said that my sleeve ended up a bit tighter due to my anatomy and how things lined up. I have had a few beers and haven't had any problems. If you think your surgeon is too small, I would definitely advise that you talk to him (her) and explain your concerns. Maybe he can help with your fears or go to a different size if he feels it's an issue. Best of luck ... let us know how it goes.

Hi there. I was a lightweight (ha ha!) as well. My BMI was 33 when I started this whole thing. Unfortunately, my insurance excludes WLS so that wasn't a path for me. But, I'm doing really well & love the restriction the sleeve gives me. Tiff gave you some great advice. If you have other questions, just ask. We are like family out here. Welcome!

Have you ever considered a Mystic Tan? I do that sometimes for a special event - a nice healthy glow for us pastey girls. (ummm...that didn't sound very good. I was talking about color, nothing else! :sad0:)

Just 10 weeks ago, I was wearing 18's and XXL Tops. My closet has been dwindling due to me, well, dwindling. So I decided to hit some thrift stores and see if I could find some jeans and business clothes. To be honest, I wasn't sure what size to get. I tried 14's, but they were too big - especially in the butt. I ended up looking at the 11/12's. While not all of them fit, most did. (Anyone else have issues of weight falling off everywhere but the waistline???) Then, it was off to blouses and sweaters. I think I was floating down the clothe aisles. It was AWESOME!!!!!! Now, my sights are set for those "mini" sizes like 4,6, & 8. I can't believe I've lost 4 sizes in 10 weeks. What will the future hold? I'm 11 pounds from my nut and pysch goal. My ticker is set for 20 pounds less than that (actually to my weight my senior year in high school). Who knows where I will end up, but it's exciting being on the journey. You guys are awesome - thank you for the encouragement, advice, and just being there. Life is definitely good today!!!!!!! :tongue_smilie:

Now that's a memo I would love to write! Wish I could blame it on swelling. Maybe I could ask to have my gallbladder out too for an excuse. LOL Seriously, best of luck - that's a lot to go through in a couple of month's time.

Since I'm in my new business clothes, think I could send my body a Memo?

"Welcome" Dee!

LOL :thumbup: ... You know, it's still taking time for my head to catch up. I still see the fat girl in the mirror. I focus on the parts that don't look good yet (that roll of fat under the bra line in the back - the poochy tummy) ... but days like yesterday really help. You guys are awesome. Thanks for the continued support.

Would you guys be interested in a meet-up sometime?

I too was an addict - but mine was Pepsi Max which has even more caffeine. What I did was wean down to avoid the headaches & other withdrawal symptoms. I started at 2 per day for one week, then down to 1 per day, then just a few sips until I was at 0 per day. I keep thinking about having one now that I'm a bit out, but just don't want to risk it. Hopefully, when I do taste it again I won't care for it. One can always hope. Good luck!!!!

Welcome! Good luck with your revision. Let us know what questions you may have.

I am so glad that you called & everything is ok. :redface1: Don't feel dumb - this is a learning process & it gets a bit overwhelming at first.

I have also used a straw & have not seen any negative side effects. I too worried about the air in my tummy, but it doesn't seem to be a problem. For some reason, I seem to be able to get more fluid in if I am using a straw.

I wasn't told to expect any changes. I've had hypothyroidism for 15 years & just take my little pill everyday. I don't think it would be related to food/weight since I've been up and down many times without a change to my medicine. I was able to take my pill the next day without any problems since it is so small. I would definitely talk to your doctor to make sure you won't have any issues & maybe they can test you more periodically. Let us know if you hear anything differently. I have my 3 month late this month & I will definitely be asking.