beckyk

Surgery date- 4/23. Down 17 lbs from surgery, but have also been in dreaded stall for 1 week. Trying to increase my calories to 800 and walk more to get off of plateau, but both are challenging!

I am glad to hear you are doing well. I started getting most of my protein and fluids in on Monday. It was like all of sudden I could swallow a normal sized drink and it made all the difference in the world. I really like the Oh Yeah! protein shakes. That's the only way I'm getting in the protein. If I drink two of those a day, anything extra is just for taste. I up the protein on soup, by mixing it with 1% milk. Each ounce of milk has an ounce of protein so I've been trying to double dip. I still haven't tried the jello yet, but hope to get some when I go out tomorrow for my post-op appointment. I must be feeling better because I am starting to go a little stir crazy. I even logged into my work laptop today and read some email, but don't tell anyone - I would hate to break the rules! LOL

Glad you liked it and it worked for you! We've got to help each other get through this challenging time!!

I haven't tried jello yet, but your suggestino of a dollop of FF cool whip sounds yummy! I am adding it to my grocery list right now!

My pain was manageable, but my advice is don't try to be brave and not take the pain meds once you get home. I have gone down to a lower dose every 6 hours and my goal is to be off them at 1 week out on Tuesday. The biggest challenge for me has been learning what a sip actually is. When I forget, I'm in trouble for a few seconds.

Cream of chicken, cream of potato, and cream of tomato have been wonderful. My NUT suggests any creamy soup at this point, but these ar the only ones I care for so far.

Yes, day by day. I am doing better today and find that creamy liquids (creamy soups and protein shakes) are going down much easier than plain water. I also had a few SF popsicles. Those count for at least 2 oz!

You are doing better than me, but each day seems a little better!!

I am trying to get in protein, but was not very successful yesterday. I am making more of an effort to do so today and am measuring and tracking to ensure I do better with all liquids.

Each physician has his own plan - and I think the important thing for us to get in right now is water. He or she may not be concerned about protein yet because dehydration is the biggest challenge we face this early in the process,

I am also on liquids for 2 weeks and haven't gotten in nearly what I needed to today. I was supposed to try to drink around 6 oz each hour, but went on a little excursion with my daughter and missed quite a bit of that. My plan calls for 64 oz of liquids a day. I might hit about half that today, but will work on it again tomorrow.

Sounds like it might help! The first burps and toots were utter relief!!!

No pressure, but quite a bit of gas- That I am releasing every way I can! LOL. Gas x strips have been a life saver!

I know what you mean. My tummy is growling like I'm hungry. I am hopeful that means I can take in more liquids today!

I had a similar experience. My surgery was on Tuesday, but I didn't hit the wall until I got home yesterday evening. I learned not to be brave about taking the pain meds. Take them on time everytime to stay ahead of the pain, at least these first few days! I was able to sleep in bed last night until about 3, then came downstairs, took the pain meds and slept propped up on the couch until my hubby went to work this morning. I am able to tolerate a little more fluids this morning, but don't plan on being without the pain meds the rest of today!

My surgery was on Tuesday and I came home yesterday afternoon, as well. Overall I am doing well, but woke up at 3 with serious gas and tummy pains. At first it was hard to remember not to chug the pain meds when needed, but my new tummy reminded me very quickly. Pain meds are kicking in, but I think I'm going to sit on the couch and try to sleep for a while instead of laying back down flat in the bed, I hope that will help with the gas!

Best wishes to you as you take the next step in this journey!

Today is the day my life changes for the better. Surgery is at 7:30AM and I am feeling mostly OK. I am a little nervous and apprehensive about the surgery and the next few days, but I know it's only a speed bump along my path to better health and a longer life! Good luck to all of my fellow soon-to-be sleevers out there. You are in my prayers!

Thanks to all. Surgery and hernia repair went well! Since I slept so much of today, between sips and walks, I am now wide awake. That is good news though since someone is in here at least once an hour for something! I can't complain though.because the nurses and staff have been great! For the first time in my life, I am glad to be firmly planted on the bench! Thank you all for your support!!

My journey took a little longer, by design. I started the process back in October, but waited until this year to do the required testing so that I wouldn't have to worry about paying two deductibles and max out of pocket expenses. Once everything made it to Cigna, I received a response by mail in about a week so if your are calling, you should get the decision a few days earlier.

I also got approval from Cigna within a week. Good luck!

I am also new and my surgery is April 23rd too! Good luck to us all!!!

Cigna denied me at first, saying that they didn't get my dietician's report. My doctor's office resubmitted and I was approved last week. The best news is that my surgery is scheduled for 2 weeks from yesterday!!