Elizabeth21again

Hello! I try to stop a bit "early." I figure after a few minutes if I feel I need more I can have a couple more bites, but, if I get overfull I will spend a lot of time feeling miserable. Best wishes! Elizabeth

Hi Wendy, That is GREAT news!! I am still doing well. I'm getting a bit stronger everyday. I hope all of you are having quick and comfortable recoveries!! Best wishes, Elizabeth

I found help with Smart Recovery. It is a free program and assists with any addictive behavior. Here is the link to their website: https://smartrecovery.org/. I also found this information helpful: Best wishes.

I would especially look at how much protein you are getting more than just the calorie count. Perhaps using protein supplements/shakes/powder as part of your intake for all that muscle you are building. Best wishes

Obesity is common. But I do not feel better about being obese. I wish I would have known more about the increased potential for addiction before my last surgery. Maybe I would have made different choices. I wish that I had. For assistance, I found the resources at Smart Recovery helpful. Here a link to their information: https://smartrecovery.org/ Best wishes.

I was a bit nervous too. I think any time we going into a major surgery it's worrisome. But here's the thing for me: I know I how miserable and painful it is to remain so overweight. I am already in pain and on a course to be trapped in my body forever. So, if, I'm going to have pain, I'd rather it been in pursuing a solution to my entrapment. Fortunately, my surgery went well. So far recovering from this surgery is a lot easier than my hernia surgery some years ago. The first few days I was tender, but take the pain meds, use ice packs and rest. Everyday I felt a bit better. Best wishes!

Hi Lorna, Yes I had the RNY bypass. So today it's been a week. I am already feeling pretty well. Yes, I'm still swollen a bit and tire easily, but relatively pain free. So, a bit better, day by day. But if you are not feeling well be sure to advocate for yourself! The first day in the hospital I had to be pretty assertive with a nurse who wanted to withhold pain meds. I stood my ground, had the meds, and so rested more comfortably so I could heal. That being said since I left the hospital I took a couple of over the counter pills a night ago for minor discomfort. Otherwise I have not had a pain med since the weekend. Get your rest! Get your protein! Get your water! Day at a time!! Elizabeth

So... I could have written your same entry 10 years ago. I lost 120 lbs with VGS. At six months post-op I resumed my weekend drinking. Mind you I could drink like a master before surgery. I had NO doubt I could handle it fine post-op. Aaaand that "worked" until it didn't. My body processed alcohol so differently post-op but I didn't realize it until too late. I wish I had remained alcohol free. I found this information below helpful. Best wishes.

Hi Lorna, It's great to hear from you! I was pretty sore the first two days and stayed 2 nights in the hospital. It gets better! Also, take pain meds offered. There are no bonus points for suffering needlessly! I hope you're feeling better soon! *gentle hugs* Elizabeth

Hello friends, Update: Surgery went very well. Doctor was very pleased with it and post-op, Tomorrow is one week and I am feeling pretty good so far. Following the protein and water intake recommendations. (Using a medicine cup to remember to sip and not gulp -- that's helping a lot to establish this new habit.) So far this recovery has been easier than my hernia surgery and my VGS some years ago! I hope everyone is having a good experience as we embark our on this new path together! Best wishes, Elizabeth

Follow up: Surgery went well. Doctor was very pleased with it and my post-op. Tomorrow is the one week mark and I feel pretty good. Following the protein and water intake rules. Using a medicine cup to drink from so that I remember to sip helps a lot. Anyway happy to report that surgery at 60 is going even better than it was at 50 so far!!

Hello, I recently turned 60. I had VGS when I was 50. It served me very well. I maintained several years. But for "reasons" I am now scheduled for a conversion to a Gastric Bypass on April 4. My doctor says I am an "ideal" candidate. Age is just a number! Good luck, Elizabeth

Hi Lorna, I am scheduled for April 4th. I am in the U.S. but would be happy to share support with you! Elizabeth