choosehope

Anyone use Medicare for Gastric Sleeve? Did they pay for it? What was the process for getting it approved?

Just realized that I am a couple of days late in writing what I just did. Hope your recovery is going well!!

Congrats Newnewme!! Hoping and praying all goes well for you. In the hospital, just remember everyone is there to take care of you! Ask for what you need. Hospital staff get busy, so you may need to be persistent. Treat everyone with kindness and dignity and it is usually returned. When I had my hysterectomy, I brought a jar with Hershey kisses with a note to whoever came in that I was thankful for them and to help themselves. Got to know some great people who came by to get their chocolate fix. Not sure that would be appropriate given the surgery I'm having, so I'm trying to think of something else. Also, hospitals are not made for sleeping unless you are under anesthesia. I always take earplugs and an eye mask. I also always bring my pillow and a cheerful throw blanket to make it a little more homey. I also always take a play list of relaxing, uplifting music to listen to during my anxious moments. Good luck!

rmag's comment about amusement parks gave me a good visual for my surgery nerves. I love roller coasters but as I wait in line I'm usually scared to death (particularly on new ones!). I talk myself into backing out a number of times up to the point where they strap me in and I know I'm going to die! Before I know it, I'm having a great time. Yes, parts are scary and even downright difficult, but I haven't regretted a ride yet! (Of course, I only go on them at reputable theme parks! Guess it's kind of like going to a Center of Excellence!). I know I'm going to be nervous up until the time I'm asleep and that it's likely to be a wild ride, but I am ready for the thrill of a new life!!

Can't help with food suggestions since I'm not post-op but I bought the greatest backpack cooler at Target about six months ago. Perfect size to stick under or over a bus seat and great for on the go activities. I carry mine on planes with a note that I have a medical need to carry my own food. Might want to see if you can find it. I use it all the time!

Sajijoma- have you tried mybariaticpantry.com's soups? I'm looking for non-sweet sources of protein for the first few weeks and would love to know how these are.

Babykakes, how did it go today? I have to say that I'm a huge fan of my psychologist and therapy. I've been going for years to deal with a number of issues. It's so great to have someone I can talk to about anything without judgement!! He is a source of great wisdom, encouragement, challenge and support for me. Might as well put him on a lifetime retainer! Lol

Hoping you are feeling much better soon! Congratulations!!

Welcome! Hope all your planning goes smoothly. I'm awaiting my final clearance and hope to schedule surgery the second week of September.

Beachbum- praying that you find the answers you need deep in your heart and awake with calm and confidence! I look forward to hearing how well things go tomorrow, and even better, a month from now!

Thanks - I found it!

I did a search for that book and can't find it. Where did you get it? Thanks.

I'd check and see if that's a typo. My NUT said 20-25 grams a meal.

On a previous surgery, my doc told me no surgery while on my period because of increased chance of bleeding. Might want to ask your doc. Although I hear quite a few women start while in the hospital due to hormonal changes.

Any suggestions of what to do for nasal pillows that irritate and rub your nose? I always end up pulling it off during the night!

I went in thinking sleeve, but my surgeon was more in favor of bypass. One reason was due to the number of long term retrospective studies on the bypass. She,and others, have told me that there just isn't enough long term data to know how the sleeve will effect us years down the road. I also have to be really honest. One of the reasons I wanted the sleeve is so I wouldn't be limited in food choices or have the consequence of dumping. I literally wanted to have my cake and eat it too. What I realized I was doing (not saying this is true of anyone else) was wanting just enough surgery to help me lose weight but not my eating fun. I'm a food addict - food needs to stop being about pleasure for me. That's what got me here. Yes I worry about having to take Vitamins forever, malabsorption, ulcers, leaks but my doc assures me that if I eat like I should that those chances are minimal. Wishing you the best of luck in making the decision that's right for you. You are the one who has to feel good about it!!

Whoops, hit the wrong button and posted! I feel that I've been getting ready for this for over 40 years! Guess I just needed to vent and get some support and encouragement. Not telling anyone but my bff what kind of surgery so I don't have anyone to talk to (except for the most awesome psychologist!). Thanks for listening!

WLWarrior - which surgery did you have? Did you have any trouble staying on or taking your Wellbutrin XR?

I wish I was one who loves Greek yogurt. It just seems so tart to me. I'm hoping my tastes will change post-surgery and that I will then love it!

Woo hoo!!! Way to go!! Like so many others have said, you're an inspiration!!

I need suggestions for Aspartame free jello, puddings and Popsicles. I'm pre-op and know I'm going to live on these for a while. Aspartame triggers migraines for me.

Me too!

How many of you are doing the bypass? I see sleeve and lap band, but I am a bit confused as this is a bypass thread. Rebecca, is the FB group for sleevers or for anyone having surgery in August?

What about the Fairlife 2% chocolate milk?

Thank you for all the great info!!! Zonetracy, which protein powder has Splenda? TIA