AngieBear

I’ve been pretty open about it at work. TBH, it’s because I didn’t want anyone to worry about me when I took my medical leave for surgery. I work at a university, with a wonderful caring group of people. I’m very fortunate. The last thing I wanted was to have them fret that I was going through some unknown medical condition. This was something that I hadn’t thought about until it got closer to the time I’d be out. What I really underestimated was the reaction of my student work force. I’d have to say when I told them that I’d be out, they got really worried. It was quite sweet. So I told them what it was so that they would chill out. The more I thought about it, going on medical leave, then coming back smaller and having rapid weight loss right after would either make everyone think I was really really sick or that I had WLS, but was ashamed of it and didn’t want anyone to know or something? I’d rather they know. The main reason I was hesitant to tell them is because I’ve worked with student groups on body positivity, etc. I didn’t want to give an impression that I thought that fat was unattractive. Letting them know about my surgery did lead to some good discussions about societal norms (good and bad) health concerns as I age, etc. Opening up with them about it led to some VERY open discussions, as can happen. I’m sure that it will be an ongoing discussion. I haven’t addressed it on my FB yet, but I’m sure I will once the WL becomes more obvious.

It took about 7 months for me, but my surgical team’s requirements are pretty rigorous compared to many other programs. When I first started I was impatient, but I would say that now I’m grateful that I had so much time with a dietician, working on behavioral changes, etc. prior to surgery. I feel a lot more prepared and comfortable for the long term.

I LOVE living lettuce butter lettuce. The texture is wonderful.

I was sleeved on the 25th, and have had no real hunger and I’ve had a challenging time getting in fluids. I have heard of others having an experience more like yours, though.

This is an awful picture of a lovely place. You can just see the camas blooming. I’m still in recovery, but my walks are getting longer. This is a few miles from home, I live in Western OR.

How did I just discover this thread?! It’s giving me a great glimpse into what I’ll be able to eat! So many beautiful veggies.

About 6 years ago I lost 100 lbs w/out surgery after being diagnosed with fatty liver (my insurance at the time wouldn’t cover wls). Of course most of that weight gradually came back. A new career meant new insurance, and this time WLS was covered. I started consults the week my insurance became effective.

Mine came the day after surgery, a week early. I was less than thrilled.

I had surgery on the 25th. Getting my fluids has been a challenge. Anything that is room temperature tastes salty and metallic, and is difficult to get down. Warm and cold liquids are way easier. To help, we picked up a teeny little electric cooler for my shakes, it made a huge difference. Tomorrow my husband is bringing home a cup warmer to keep my tea and broth warm. This challenge took me off guard, as I’ve always loved water, and I’ve been fine with ion temp beverages before.

Woot!

Good luck!

Do you still have your gallbladder?

I had surgery on Thursday, went home on Friday. Getting enough liquids was a struggle. I’ve always been a water drinker, but since surgery it tastes like metal. Now I’m drinking 4oz of broth an hour. I’m going to try to drink some shake again tonight. Overall I feel good. The nausea is almost gone, as is the gas. Like you guys, I’m really interested to see what my weight loss will look like.

I had my surgery on Thursday and came home yesterday. The nausea is going away, which is making getting my water in easier, we went on a little walk , which was lovely. Fingers crossed that this improvement continues.

I had surgery this morning. Im doing well, lots of walking.

Me! 7:45 in Oregon.

Yep! I was told no shaving the 3 days prior to surgery.

I’m the day after you, at Good Samaritan in Corvallis. The program has been great so far. I’m coming to peace with the surgery, taking walks and trying to stay busy. Best of luck to you.

Yes, it’s common to have gallbladder issues after extreme weight loss. I lost 100lbs w/o surgery 5 years ago, and ended up with painful gallstones. I had emergency removal surgery. Gallstones are extremely painful, I’m sorry you are going through this. Best of luck on your surgery.

I did one a few years ago, and just committed myself and my husband to doing one in April 2020 with the same crew (my surgery date is April 25). After training for that, I was in great shape. I’d lost about 90 lbs (so I was 50 lbs lighter than now but still obese), but more importantly I’d been trail running and lifting. I’ve started those things back up again. It was/is a great motivator, and was tons of fun. Well, except for the ice water and the electrocution, of course! I’d recommend roping some friends in, it’s way more fun and some of the obstacles are designed with a team in mind.

Cut out carbs. On each meal have 3-4 oz protein and a cup and a half of non-starchy veggies. Drink lots of water. Cut down on salt. Much of what you’ll lose will be waterweight due to cutting out carbs, but not all of it. Good luck! Congrats on quitting smoking! That’s a MAJOR win!

My date is 4/25. I start my pre-op diet a week prior. I’ll be going in next week for testing. I’m excited, and I know that this is the right choice, but I am nervous as well.

Nice!