Maddie

I used a dr in TX but welcome and best of luck.

Remember not to over exert yourself until you receive full clearance from your doc.

Right after my surgery, a nurse brought my crushed meds in a tiny cup with Water added to it. This was a disaster as I had to drink that and taste it all. I asked her to bring the crushed meds to me dry after that. I take a sip to "wet my whistle" throw the "powder" back as far as I can in my mouth and wash it down with water. Works fine. You are correct about mushies, applesauce make it really easy to get them down.

Until your tummy settles down you should only do liquids. Let your system rest, otherwise the diarrhea is tough to get rid of. Ginger ale is really a nono. It's carbonated which is bad for your new tummy and the sugar isn't helping the diarrhea. Clear Liquids, SF popsicles, SF tea, etc. Once you feel like things have stabelized you can try to add something else. I only say this because I have irritable bowel syndrome and that's what I have to do. I sure hope you feel better soon. I know you don't want to go back to the hospital, but please don't let yourself get dehydrated.

The thing that gets me....is the fact that these kinds of stupid, rude, thoughtless remarks can still take me by surprise!

Are you taking tiny bites and chewing till your food is basically pulverized before you swallow? If so, I'm not sure then.

I don't have COPD but I do have asthma. I had to be cleared by a pulmonary doc as well. My asthma is already better so no doubt you would benefit too. I think the main thing is to take good care of yourself for the next 2 weeks so your lungs sound as good as they can when you see the dr. I wish you the best of luck.

Glad you got some proper guidance that made you feel better. Best of luck.

Bread, pasta, rice, carbs like that tend to swell in your tummy and make you very uncomfortable. It doesn't happen to everyone, but to a lot of folks. You may want to take a break from foods like that and try to introduce them again later and in small amounts.

Woo Hoo, getting the date scheduled is very exciting. Gratz. best of luck and keep us posted.

That's ok, hehe...we like the wierd questions!:tongue_smilie:

I'm off to watch too!

I agree, you look so much younger. Such a pretty lady. Gratz and keep up the good work.

You look fantastic! Getting refocused will get you to goal. Can't wait to see the next pics.

I have heard a lot about the Premier drinks at Costco. The closest Costco is about 45 miles from here but, my hubby is going to try to get there this weekend for me to pick some up. In the meantime, I am using Atkins ready to drink. The cafe late is pretty good. I can't stomach the sweet fruity ones.

The first 2 days after surgery, I could drink just fine, but then all the swelling really set in for me. It got harder and harder to get stuff down. The liquids were hard enough, much less to try to force food down. We all heal differently. There was one lady earlier today that posted she has been on 3 trips at only 5 1/2 weeks out. But, if you are like me....it takes time. That could be all it is. I am 6 weeks out tomorrow and still have some swelling. I know that isn't typical but it sure makes a difference on how much you can put into your tummy. As the swelling started to go down, drinking and then eating became easier. I know Proteins are a big concern but right now your main focus needs to be on Water. Your weakness is understandable as your body isn't getting the "fuel" it needs to run. It does get easier I promise. Just try to sip, sip , sip and if you can eat a little great. We don't all progress at the same rate, so don't get yourself down comparing yourself with others. Trust me, that will only get you down. Focus on the progress you have made to this point and know that it gets better and easier. Your time will come. Hang in there. We're pulling for you.

I am so very sorry to hear that. You and you family are in my prayers. Take care of yourself. hugs, Maddie

The fact that you bounced back so fast and was able to travel like that is really awesome. I'm glad to hear that all is going well for you.

You look great as always. Great idea with the dress!

It depends on your ins. company, your doctor, and your medical history as to what tests will be required. I personally had to have: endoscopy sleep study ekg stress test pulmonary function test blood/urine work

Welcome and best of luck.

Welcome, glad you shared. It sounds to me like you are ready for this from every angle, which is awesome. Best of luck, keep us posted.

Gratz, with a great attitude like you have now, you will do GREAT! Glad things went well for you.

I'm not a big fan of flying either. You have done all the right things. You purchased the extra seat, so ignore the other passengers. This is your time. You are making a life change to be healthier for you and your family. So, who cares what they think. I think you are very brave and are doing the right thing. Best of luck.

The hardest part was facing it. You have done that. Now, you can move on and do things the way you know they should be done. Hang tough, I know you can do this. oh, and one last thing.....43 lbs is pretty awesome!