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Hi all, I am Gerry from Edinburgh, Scotland. Just finally got my date through for my first consultation with the bariatric team, 18 months after being referred by my family Doc. Excited and scared Sh*tless in equal measure to be starting out on this journey, but I am only 38 years old, with type 2 diabetes and High blood pressure, so hopefully this will be the first step in improving and prolonging my life.

Hi All, I have finally received a date for my first consultation with the Bariatric team after being on the waiting list for 18 months. Although I am based in Scotland and i know the vast majority on here are North america based, so your experiences might be vastly different, I was still looking for some tips on what to expect from the first consultations if possible. There is a UK based Forum, but it doesnt seem to get much traffic. Many thanks Gerry

In just 2 days I go to take part in a Bariatric Seminar at Ohio State University- Wexner Medical Center. Those of you who have followed my story know I have not had a smooth journey toward Bariatric Surgery, instead it has had as many knots as a paracord Bracelet. One of the biggest and lumpiest was completely finishing all requirements of a bariatic program (at a Center of Excellence hospital, no less) and then having all 3 surgeons refuse to complete my surgery. The excuse I was given (in my mind) holds about as much Water as a minnie bucket so I refuse to given it credence on this forum today. I will listen to their program and speakers with a calm adult attitude, will see if it meets fully with my future plans and desires. But inside me still lurks a 6-year child crying with a broken heart. She keeps saying "Why does nobody love me? I am a good person, a worthy person. Why does nobody love me?"And the adult me wants to hug her, tell her everything will be alright. But I can't, I can't touch her, I can't reach her. So I will sit quietly, all surrounding me will think I am at peace, but inside there will still be turmoil and many unaswered questions. Please my Barifriends bond with me in this endeavor. I believe this is the right time in my life, I am committed for the right reasons, I understand it will not be an easy way out of a complex situation. But I do want to go forward, I realize there will be a lifetime change in my life. Well I do not know how many additional years of life I will be granted but I plan to live them to the utmost of my abilities. I have prayed I be given this 1 more chance-- for it is my intention to work for my future with every breath of my being. I promise to update my story as it plays out in future days. Thank you each and everyone! Sent from my VS880PP using BariatricPal mobile app

My nut says it's not nutritionally sound as far as vitamins go for bariatric it's go so I will pass Sent from my SM-T380 using BariatricPal mobile app

High liver enzymes can indicate gallstones, pancreatitis, and a few other things. Angrylpus, I'm betting yours will fall since you had your gallbladder removed. Gallbladder issues are very common after bariatric surgery.

Guys do a google image search for Bariatric surgery restaurant card and dozens pop up....

Not only is he the love of your life now he gets to be your Bariatric Pal @ sosewsue61. That is really neat. Sent from my VS880PP using BariatricPal mobile app

I’m currently using Tespo. The machine mixes the vitamins with water in a little cup. With the Bariatric vitamins you have two bariatric pods, and one women’s multivitamin pod. They also give you a travel dispenser, which I take to work with me (one pod three times a day spread out). If you prefer you can use the travel dispenser to mix the powder with another beverage. It tastes ok. The multivitamin is pretty tasty, but the bariatric “shot” is a lot less tasty. I’m still pre-op so I take it like an actual shot (it’s only like 1 or 2oz). But I’m guessing that will charge after surgery. The machine is kind of ridiculous. There a coupons to get it for $50, which isn’t too bad, but the machine is the size of a coffee maker. It will not likely survive my next move, but the travel dispenser should suffice. I can’t imagine why a person without bariatric surgery would opt for it, but it serves my purpose well enough.

Sure it just looks like a business card on one side and them the other side explains about having bariatric surgery.

I have the card. My surgeon gave it to me. Most places I tell them I had bariatric surgery and they are very nice and let me order off the kids menu. Other places ask for the card and then are very nice about working with me. I really enjoy eating out with my spouse. We went to a Mongolian bbq and they don't let you take anything home but with my card they let me take my meal home.

278lbs in August of 2016 my first Bariatric Appt. 260lbs in March of 2017 starting my 2-week pre-op diet. 189lbs in February of 2018. I all almost 16 months. I had huge stalls due to gaining muscle from weight lifting.

It’s one of those days. Slept all night and had about 20 minutes of normal before exhaustion set in. I was able to eat a quarter cup of cottage cheese and a couple tablespoons of applesauce. Forced myself to empty the dishwasher, grill some chicken and made a cherry and cream trifle for my husband (who has never had a weight problem in his Life) and exists on protein, fruit, seeds and nuts and fish. But, it’s been 7 weeks since I have prepared anything that took effort. The brain fog is ridiculous. My muscles are sore and I am just so down. Took an ultram and trying to take a 15 much minute rest. My weight is steadily coming down even with light activity. Tried steamed mixed veggies yesterday and the sleeve said NO NO! That surprised me because I really have had no issues except the sleeve does NOT like scrambled eggs (boiled is okay). So let’s talk about clothes. OMG Droopy ass pants, tops hanging and forget about my jeggings. I dug out some size 14 and 16’s (not women’s plus size) and they almost will button. I just packed up 18-22W. We should have an online bariatric clothes store! So, while I am challenged with the ME/CFS at least I am making progress. Anyway, at least I know there are people that GET what it’s like dealing with this everyday. I have even done the vitamin IV’s, supplements, specialists, psychiatrist—you name it and I bet too that includes every medicine you can think of. I will not however start on any auto immune meds.... can’t someone find a cure for this malady?

My pre op diet consisted of Bariatric Advantage. I thought it was the WORST of all the protein powders I've tried. I used PB2 to mix with the vanilla flavored powder. I also only mixed with water. Milk has way too many carbs and the whole point is to send your body into ketosis. I also would eat a small meal in the evenings (days 1-7) consisting of 4 oz of chicken and 4 oz of steamed (low carb) vegetables. The remaining week, I did straight shakes. I lost 27 lbs pre op. But I think at least 10 lbs was water weight.

To answer your questions: 1.Yes--- you're doing the right thing, at the right time and for the right reasons.2. No--- you Will Not die on the table, operative deaths are almost nil, besides hospitals and Bariatric centers do their very best to not have that besmirch(ooh i[emoji307] that word!) their good reputation and record. 3.Nausea is a very transitory thing and not that many get it anyway. No surgeon worth his salt is going to leave you in worse shape than when you were wheeled in. Surgeons tend to be self confident, have a high opinion of their skills and compentencies, you think they'll willingly make a boo-boo? No way, Jose! 4.A higher being sending a message not to do this? No just your devil of self- doubt trying raise his ugly head. Don't let him, you're a grownup, you're bigger than him and he doesn't have your interests at heart. Tell him Shut up and Leave Me Alone, you're not my friend and I choose not to listen to You. You are going to be fine fine fine, don't let all the whimwahs get you down. Sent from my VS880PP using BariatricPal mobile app

I take Bariatric Fusion. I like them a lot. My surgeons office said for many people this is all you need to take. However, I do take supplemental biotin and vitamin d/calcium pills. The biotin is from BariMelts. The Vitamin D is a chewable from Caltrate. This is only because my Vitamin D was in the toilet pre op and because I don't want to loose my hair (even though, its probably inevitable). Bariatric Fusion is also fairly cheap. I have to take 4 per day with RNY and 1 bottle lasts 30 days, at $27.99.

I did and there is loads of information, but but nothing with a personal perspective as there is on Bariatric Pal.

Deb tell them, "you remember how I always said life was a growing up experience and to use the tools to help you grow? Well Mom is still learning and growing herself. My doctor and I have decided it might be a good idea if I lowered my weight. A good tool for me will be weight loss surgery. I love each of you and I would like to be here and enjoy the stages as you grow further. I want to see each of you get married, I want to hold your children, my grandbabies, I don't want to be the lady they see in a picture frame. Don't be afraid, I'll still be your mom, I'll just have a smaller physical body. I'll need your help, even moms need help at times. Be happy for me, be here for me and we'll face this together as a family. You are important to me and I know you feel the same. Now give me a hug or kiss and please know everything's going to be just fine." If your kids are the great kids you know they are, cause you raised them, they will appreciate you treating them like adults , involving them and even admitting moms aren't always perfect but they are the best friend they'll ever find. The Bariatric Grandma has spoke her piece,now go hug each one of them for me. And God's richest blessings on your journey. Sent from my VS880PP using BariatricPal mobile app

Yeah, google bariatric surgery and the 3 week stall and you'll see you're not alone. :-D

Hi all, I would appreciate your thoughts on this topic. I have 5 kids ranging in age from 12 - 19 years old. I just made the decision last week to move ahead with bariatric surgery. At this moment I feel ashamed that I have come to this point with my weight. My instincts right now are telling me “make something up, what can I tell the kids I am having done? I can’t let them know I have given up and this is my last resort” I know I have a lot of emotional work to do from top to bottom... My head is spinning right now and would appreciate any thoughts or advice folks may have. Thank you

Mandykins, there's a newer thread called Coping Mechanisms, a lot of people telling what they do when the food Monster tries to get their attention. Really enjoyed reading it and got a few ideas myself.We all or will all go through what you're going through now, you're among friends and the worldwide Bariatric family here. I love to chat, only thing bigger than my listening ear is my mouth. My mamma, may she rest in peace, used to tell me " you have 2 ears and only 1 mouth, so you should listen twice as often as you talk" didn't pay much attention to those wise words! Hey kid, you're are now on the glide path to your surgery, every little thing's gonna be alright and these liquid days will be worth it. Best of luck to you and Chambo both, you will be forever surgery twins. Sent from my VS880PP using BariatricPal mobile app

If you google this it is common after bariatric surgery.

I write poetry, some of it pretty good, only minor publishing but someday I'll put it in book form, I crochet, knit, only do housework under protest, walk (when I don't hurt too bad) and write on Quota and Bariatric Pal. And I love silky or microfiber blankies, my 2 cats and my son. Sent from my VS880PP using BariatricPal mobile app

Grerchen57 may I ask how old you are? If you are 60 or above there are quite a few of us active on Bariatric Pal. Look us up and let's chat. I'm 72 haven't completed my surgery yet, will Lord Willing and the Creek don't rise, this spring. Pretty upbeat except when this tired old Buckeye gets the blues. I first started seeking WLS August 2015 so I have quite a tale to tell myself. Don't be a stranger, none of us bite, be difficult for me cause I have dentures, good for chewing food but not very sharp. Technically I'm not a Baby Boomer, I missed it by just 5 days. I am an Occupation Baby, a select group, we were born August 6 to December 31 1945, we tend to hang with the Baby Boomers, shoot most of my oldest and dearest friends are Boomers. So pull up a chair and talk with all of us. I will be a RnY but sleevers are fine in my book, as are SIPS, mini bypasses and even lap-banders, RnY just will work better for me. Sent from my VS880PP using BariatricPal mobile app

I am an over achiever. Always have been. Currently I work full time in a demanding but fulfilling job, go to school full time at a major university with a double major, preparing to graduate next spring and move right on to a joint masters program for my MPA and JD. What else makes sense? Having weight loss surgery in the middle of the holidays!!! I did it. I got those nifty holes poked in me on December 27th, 2017. I'm a tough lady. I'm just like my mama who has a high tolerance for pain I guess. My surgery was a breeze. Other than the feeling that was reminiscent of those mortifying middle school years when we were forced to do the sit-ups in gym class. So I had to maneuver myself out of bed, but no real pain. I walked and walked in the hospital. Not one bit of nausea and although it felt weird to drink, no nausea. Well, except for 2 minutes before I was released and I thought I was going to projectile vomit. I started sweating and then... BUUUUUURRRRRRRP. Yeah. That happened. If I hadn't taken the time off due to the holidays anyway, I would have gone to work the day after my release (stayed overnight). Anyway, I have followed my diet and exercise to the letter. I walk 5 miles (treadmill) at the gym 3 times per week, I have approval to work with weights now so I am working with small weights (Amazon basics has a great CHEAP set 1lb, 2 lb, and 5 lb pairs), and I walk outside as much as I possibly can. I've been gung ho since day one. So how much did I lose the first month after surgery? 6 lousy pounds. SIX. S I X. I did have an immediate weight loss of 7 pounds the week after surgery (probably my stomach lol), but then... six in a whole month. I was a size 22 when I started this journey. At the time of the surgery, I could squish my butt into a 20 but by the end of the day I would be in pain and usually undid my pants at my desk. I had moved to leggings (yes, they ARE pants) after the surgery because they wouldn't bother any incisions. Still all moping around because of my 6 pound failure, I decided to try on my cute size 16 jeans. I know, 16 isn't a good goal but I had it as my first goal. They were out of the plus size, and on clearance. To my shock, THEY FIT. Not only did they fit, but they fit comfortably. I haven't been able to fit 16s over my thighs since about 2000, if not before. How? Why? WHAT? I am smart. I understand that muscle weighs more than fat. I knew that I had been really making an effort but from a 20/22 to a 16? WOWZA! Had another appointment the next day and I spoke with my surgeon and he had them do all my measurements. I have lost SO MANY inches. He said that I had lost a lot of fat and gained muscle and my actual number weight loss will catch up and to not worry, I did. Another month of it and I lost over 12 lbs last month! To some, this is slow. I have read about people losing 5-8 lbs per week. That's great and all but I am apparently the tortoise in this race. I feel great, albeit slow and steady, and I will win this race! My resting heart rate was high 80s/low 90s before surgery. Now I'm in the low 70s. My blood sugar has stabilized and I am no longer pre-diabetic. I have been taken off my cholesterol statin. I'll still have extra skin but I'm working hard at firming a lot of it up. So don't get discouraged, friends. We all lose differently. Being a slow loser has some advantages. Just keep on track, stop worrying about the scale number that we have all been so conditioned to look at most and measure yourself. Don't get too down. Drink your water. Get to that protein goal. Drink more water! Watch those sneaky carbs! WALK WALK WALK WALK. Drink water lol. Also, don't be afraid to ask questions. Call your bariatric team/surgeon. They are there for you.

So I am almost a year out in April. I'm am female and 48. My hair seems to be thinning now. I have , unintentionally, stopped taking my bariatric vitamins as we were moving out of state, selling our house, getting settled, getting new jobs etc. Then there was the added stress. I'm wondering if it is just that I stopped taking my vitamins and my protein has reduced or if this is just the way it's going to be. Period. Any thoughts, suggestions, or advice welcome. I am starting my protein shakes back up.