Karen Wynne

Had my surgery on Friday, Nov. 21. Doing great. Best advice - FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS! Let nursing staff do for you and don't over due. Ask for extra pillows to cradle your stomach. Use the mechanics of the bed to help you sit up, get up off bed, etc. Make sure you do the breathing exercises. You will experience coughing and bloody mucus. That needs to come up. You don't want pneumonia. Once you are clear for liquids don't force down. Walk, Walk, Walk. Get rid of the gas. I have not had any pain medication since I left the hospital on Sunday. The only "pain" I have is the pulling on the incisions from the weight of the fat in my stomach. This has decreased each day that passes. I prepared my home for my return. All the Vitamins in place, the Protein powders, the baby spoon, the baby food, sugar free ice pops (a real treat!), sugar free Jello mixed with unflavored Protein powder, Boost Protein drinks (yum!), decaf hot tea, fresh lemon or lime squeezed into filtered Water (one of my favorites). Going to doctor tomorrow for my first visit and weigh in since the surgery. Hoping to be able to get the clearance to drive and to start Weeks 2 through 4 - pureed Food. Have plenty of jarred baby food on hand. This helps with the portion control. I pray for your speedy recovery and best results. Keep the faith. Go on-line and look at the websites for clothes you will be able to eventually buy and watch You Tube of people who have succeeded. Find what will work for you and run with it!