GypsyQueen

My husband and both kids sneeze every time they go outdoors (from home, from a store, get out of the car). It's simultaneous and hilarious. Now that I have my hiccup, I don't feel so left out. Sorry to make light, I hope they do get better for everybody.

My doctor had a support fee of $500-650, I think, which covered lifetime group support classes, nutritionist and exercise physiologist. Insurance still covers doctor visits and labs, etc.

It depends on how much progress you make. I lost 45 lbs. and starting second guessing my decision to go forward with surgery. Luckily my husband encouraged me to go for it and I'm so glad I did. Invest in the time during your diet to adjust to the sleeve lifestyle. It will make adjusting post surgery so much less stressful.

I found a Groupon for a 2 hour massage and did that the day before surgery. Such a stressful day and that helped pass the time. And made contemplating food impossible for a while too.

My doc's plan has me waiting an hour after meals and I actually look forward to it. I get tired of drinking! Perfect time to go clothes or grocery shopping too!

I was a 41 bmi at my seminar, lost 45 lbs on insurance required diet making me a 34bmi. I worried about the same thing, but was told insurance would not see current numbers, so I enjoyed my food funerals (not suggesting you do this, btw) till preop liquid diet (only had to do 5 days). No problem with insurance and I was 34.2 day of surgery.

I get hungry. So, my Vitamins almost count as a mini meal and stave off the hunger for another hour or so. I take them with milk so they are not on an empty stomach and I am using chewable multi (Centrum) and gummi calcium (citracal yummy!) and practically look forward to taking them. You will find what works for you. And everybody's capacity is different. When I went to support and people a year out were still having issues with 2oz., I felt like the freak in the room. I got rid of Protein shakes/powders as soon as I was off post op liquid phase and have been eating 3oz. protein regularly, plus fruit or veggie. Maybe this will be you too! If you eat out, as you cut small and chew well, nobody will think much of it because you'll still be eating when they finish. Ask for a to go box right when food is served and nobody will know how much you ate or put away! Embrace your decision and move forward! No turning back, right? That's the pep talk I had with myself on Day 4 and have not regretted it since. You can do this!!!

Not only am I wearing smaller shoes, I can wear strappy heels! Wearing heels in general is awesome, but ones that I can actually reach down and buckle (yay!) that don't cut into fat pads is simply AMAZING! Looking forward to winter and the possibility of being able to zip up boots!!!!!!

Many docs don't give goal numbers. I specifically asked and the PA said 161 is what the computer set my goal at. I'm 5'3" and at 168 currently. I know I will go below their # as I'm only 9 weeks post op. I just happened to lose a lot prior to surgery. So every "BODY" is different. It will find it's comfort zone and settle in.

Congrats! You look fabulous!!! It must be a wonderful feeling! I'm walking in your footsteps, so thanks for the encouragement!

I am 8 1/2 weeks post op and am down only 24 lbs. (but not fretting as I lost 45 lbs on my 6 mo. pre op). In those 24 lbs. though, I've dropped 4 pant sizes. i'm hoping slow and steady wins the race.

Protein shakes were allowed for me as soon as I got home from the hospital.

Try a soluble fiber powder 2-3 times a day. The no flavor kind. It can be mixed into most anything.

It's the arrow looking thing on the top right of each post. Hit quote to copy.

My initial reaction when I went to the information seminar was "Why would anyone choose anything but the sleeve?" It just sounded so much more straight forward and required much less long term post op follow up. It suited me. Just go with what feels right for you.

I am sorry you are having these issues ladies. Milk has been my savior, as both a liquid and a protein. I hope things get better for you.

There are a number of things you can take or use to try and help minimize the effects, but it's a crap shoot. It may happen no matter what you do. It does grows back. Just get your protein in for a speedy recovery.

Thanks for the inspiration. You look great!

It might not look appetizing, but everything tastes just as good as the unpureed version. My first meals were deviled eggs, applesauce, tuna salad, chicken thighs, and bananas. I dreamed about the deviled eggs.

I have not experienced any problems with any foods - steak, salad, fruits and veggies included. It is a leap of faith as everyone has a different experience. Knocking on wood now.

I had recently divorced and lost a lot of weight when I started dating my (now) husband and told him so. I warned him I may gain weight and he assured me it was more acreage to love. 18 years later and he has continued to tell me I am sexy at every up and down of the scale. It alway made me feel reassured that he knew and accepted me as I am at any size.

My hubby has been blabbing. Got a phone call from his aunt today. At first I was horrified that all of his work friends, etc. knew, but he is so supportive and excited for me that it's hard to be mad.

Keep up the good work! It's definitely showing!