My surgery date is October 31st too. Going in for gastric bypass following a lap band leak and removal about a year ago. Am at my highest weight now but was able to be successful with my LB before it leaked so looking forward to working my "new permanent tool." Am on liquids now, had my pre-op yesterday and check in Monday at 6:45 am. Based on everyone's suggestions and lots of YouTube videos I have picked up Biotene, Gas X strips, Chapstick, and comfy pants for the hospital and will be taking one of my own pillows. I downloaded a timer app to remind me to drink and have picked up multiple types of flavored and unflavored protein powders, shakes, water flavorers, soups that can be blended, and vitamin patches to get me through the first few days of being home. I'm having surgery at Kaiser South Bay by Dr. Robert Zane and if all goes well should only have to stay in the hospital one night. Good Luck to you on your surgery and I look forward to sharing our stories when we are on the losing side!