I'm new to the forums and am loving the community and the help everyone gives. I'm 34 year old black male and was 497 at my largest and 493 at the time of my surgery on last Wednesday 7/3/13. After I came out of anesthesia all I thought was I can't believe I did this to myself on purpose. The pain was intense but now things are so much better. I'm able to get enough liquid and my stomach seems to handle a good level of broth with no issue. I'm really interested in amateur bodybuilding. It's a dream of mine and I want to start out on the right foot. So if anyone has info on how to start off on the right foot I in that direction I would love to hear from you. How is bodybuilding after the sleeve different than doing it without the sleeve?