Dr. Gerald Kirshenbaum - Considering Dr. Kirshenbaum

[minidriver 0]

Hey Deb,

Let's just say, he's from the midwest and he can eat crackers in my bed anytime! Of course, I'd invite his wife and kids too! We could have a cracker eating party.

I want to have a slumber party with our guy and his family! That would be a blast!

[jmegirl 2]

Well, the first month is kinda weird, the second month is better (if you've had a fill), but you might as well join in! You're so close . . . are you nervous? I remember the week before my surgery I was a nervous wreck!

OK, then definitely count me in for the challenge. My first fill is scheduled exactly one month after surgery (Dec 5th) so hopefully I'll have lost a good amount of poundage by Christmas. Is it unrealistic to hope for 20lbs in 7 weeks - well, in the first 7 weeks after surgery?

Oh, and nervous just doesn't cut it! Last night we went to the Halloween Party that our friends were throwing. I know, I was supposed to be resting so I don't get sick, but I'm feeling better so I don't think a cold is coming on anymore. Anyways, I'm sitting there munching on celery and spinach dip, a few meatballs...meanwhile, everyone else is drinking beer and cherry vodka punch, eating Cookies and halloween candy, and basically just enjoying themselves.

I was the only sober person in the house, and it gave me a lot of time to think. I can't believe I'm actually doing this. It's become a reality almost overnight, and suddenly I just can't believe I'm actually resorting to surgery to lose weight. It has always seemed like such a good idea the last few months, but now I don't understand why I'm about to put myself through this. Just go on a diet! Just exercise! Sure, I've said these things before, but now I'm on the brink of stomach surgery and it just seems like a better option. I've never had any kind of surgery before, and I've failed more diet plans than I care to imagine, so the prospect of failing this "diet plan" is just enough to send me over the edge.

Wow, sorry I kinda just vented right there. I'm definitely in this for the long haul, but that doesn't mean I'm not losing sleep over the last few days worrying about whether or not this is the right thing for me to do. Does that make sense?

[jmegirl 2]

Did I read something about there being a special type of soap they want you to use after surgery, for the incision sites? I can't for the life of me remember where I read it.

Also, we just finished grocery shopping for my Full liquids phase post-op. Also bought Vitamins, Protein Shakes, liquid tylenol, a pill crusher, etc...pretty much everything I need. $200 later.... Sure am lucky that my husband loves me, LOL!!!

[Lap_dancer 8]

Did I read something about there being a special type of soap they want you to use after surgery, for the incision sites? I can't for the life of me remember where I read it.

Also, we just finished grocery shopping for my Full Liquids phase post-op. Also bought Vitamins, Protein Shakes, liquid tylenol, a pill crusher, etc...pretty much everything I need. $200 later.... Sure am lucky that my husband loves me, LOL!!!

Before surgery, Hybacleanse ( I think that is how you spell it, blue bottle, colored pink soap) for three days, use that on your body surgery site instead of regular soap.

Liquid Tylenol is awesome for pain.

I lived on French Onion Soup minus the topping for the first week. I happen to love French Onion soup and the broth was just what I needed.

Other thoughts are Lipton noodle soup only empty the noodles in the trash and cook that chicken cube thingy.

I graduated to Gerber graduates.

Eat slow, one small baby sip at a time. Swallow, get use to that pause and then down it goes.

Water water water. Room temp. You will find cold liquids tend to cramp up your stomach tightly. Things don't seem to go through the pipes as smoothly so I drink things at room temp or slightly cool.

Those are things I thought to tell you right off the bat. You will mostly feel like sleeping.< /p>

[Lap_dancer 8]

Okay friends, pausing for an advertisement for grandson...............

Here's the link to a photo contest for Christopher James Potter, Genie Extraodinaire

http://www.amuso.com/gameshows/comedy/BEST-HALLOWEEN-COSTUME-7/YFccCzmMwj8K-Genie-Baby

PLEASE Vote for him.

[minidriver 0]

I think what you're feeling is absolutely normal. I had SERIOUS buyer's remorse in the last few days before my surgery. I started beating myself up over the money and my lack of willpower, and also started convincing myself that I would be a failure at the band. But I had already taken out the loan, bought the plane ticket, etc., and decided just to go through with it and hope for the best.

Well, I am so glad that I did it. I am one of the slower losers on here, but I'm still down to a lower weight than I have been in years and it's been relatively easy to get there. And the best part is, I know I won't gain it back. That's always been my downfall in the past.

So . . . just take a deep breath and know that you're doing the right thing. A year from now you'll look back and be so happy with your decision.

As for the supplies . . .yep, it's expensive to buy all the stuff you need. But your grocery/eating out bills are gonna' go way down. We are spending so much less on food now than we used to (we ate out a lot) and my husband is eating much healthier because I am.

So, go ahead and vent for the next few days as much as you need to, the get on that plane, go have a wonderful dinner with the lap band ladies, and start your new life. YAY FOR DR. K. and the LAPBAND!!!:thumbup::cursing:

[PrtyAntOvrYt 6]

Did I read something about there being a special type of soap they want you to use after surgery, for the incision sites? I can't for the life of me remember where I read it.

Also, we just finished grocery shopping for my Full Liquids phase post-op. Also bought Vitamins, Protein Shakes, liquid tylenol, a pill crusher, etc...pretty much everything I need. $200 later.... Sure am lucky that my husband loves me, LOL!!!

Remind me and I'll bring the soap to RR on Tuesday night.

It's Hepacleanse (I may have spelled that wrong again! Munchkin>)

I took regular Soup and just strained out the solids and ate that. I hate broth, it's so salty and it makes me nauseated.

[PrtyAntOvrYt 6]

OK, then definitely count me in for the challenge. My first fill is scheduled exactly one month after surgery (Dec 5th) so hopefully I'll have lost a good amount of poundage by Christmas. Is it unrealistic to hope for 20lbs in 7 weeks - well, in the first 7 weeks after surgery?

Oh, and nervous just doesn't cut it! Last night we went to the Halloween Party that our friends were throwing. I know, I was supposed to be resting so I don't get sick, but I'm feeling better so I don't think a cold is coming on anymore. Anyways, I'm sitting there munching on celery and spinach dip, a few meatballs...meanwhile, everyone else is drinking beer and cherry vodka punch, eating Cookies and halloween candy, and basically just enjoying themselves.

I was the only sober person in the house, and it gave me a lot of time to think. I can't believe I'm actually doing this. It's become a reality almost overnight, and suddenly I just can't believe I'm actually resorting to surgery to lose weight. It has always seemed like such a good idea the last few months, but now I don't understand why I'm about to put myself through this. Just go on a diet! Just exercise! Sure, I've said these things before, but now I'm on the brink of stomach surgery and it just seems like a better option. I've never had any kind of surgery before, and I've failed more diet plans than I care to imagine, so the prospect of failing this "diet plan" is just enough to send me over the edge.

Wow, sorry I kinda just vented right there. I'm definitely in this for the long haul, but that doesn't mean I'm not losing sleep over the last few days worrying about whether or not this is the right thing for me to do. Does that make sense?

Okay Sister Jaime!

It makes perfect sense. I admit that I am still ashamed of having to resort to such drastic measures to lose weight. I'm more ashamed, however, that I ever allowed myself to weigh as much as I did! What on earth was wrong with me? What I blind? Dumb? Or just not paying attention and living in denial?

Losing weight has always been easy for me. Gaining it back plus more has been easier! I am a smart girl when it comes to nutrition. I was raised in a home that was very health conscious... but yet with all the knowledge, I ate horribly -- in addition to my veggies and fruits. Nice, huh?

It's a lot of money to spend on ourselves. I know. But somehow, Jaime, we have to convince ourselves that we are worth that and so much more. It's time, we step back and realize that the past behaviors are not going to help us in the future. It's time to change. It's time to protect our well-being, care for ourselves and feel good about doing it.

I'm sure you love your hubby, just as much as I love my daughter. I couldn't imagine, leaving her due to obesity related health issues. I felt I had to do something... for me and for her.

We all understand where your head is -- ours were there and some days are still there.

Take a deep breath, grab another Protein Shake and settle into your new life -- the first day of the rest of a long - happy and healthy new Jaime.

Just think! You'll have two Birthdays! The day you entered this life and the day you started living again!

Hugs,

dee~

[PrtyAntOvrYt 6]

Okay friends, pausing for an advertisement for grandson...............

Here's the link to a photo contest for Christopher James Potter, Genie Extraodinaire

http://www.amuso.com/gameshows/comedy/BEST-HALLOWEEN-COSTUME-7/YFccCzmMwj8K-Genie-Baby

PLEASE Vote for him.

I voted Lapdancer! He's the sweetest Babe!

I hope you're not enjoying him too much!!

[Lap_dancer 8]

I think what you're feeling is absolutely normal. I had SERIOUS buyer's remorse in the last few days before my surgery. I started beating myself up over the money and my lack of willpower, and also started convincing myself that I would be a failure at the band. But I had already taken out the loan, bought the plane ticket, etc., and decided just to go through with it and hope for the best.

Well, I am so glad that I did it. I am one of the slower losers on here, but I'm still down to a lower weight than I have been in years and it's been relatively easy to get there. And the best part is, I know I won't gain it back. That's always been my downfall in the past.

So . . . just take a deep breath and know that you're doing the right thing. A year from now you'll look back and be so happy with your decision.

As for the supplies . . .yep, it's expensive to buy all the stuff you need. But your grocery/eating out bills are gonna' go way down. We are spending so much less on food now than we used to (we ate out a lot) and my husband is eating much healthier because I am.

So, go ahead and vent for the next few days as much as you need to, the get on that plane, go have a wonderful dinner with the lap band ladies, and start your new life. YAY FOR DR. K. and the LAPBAND!!!:thumbup::cursing:

So glad you brought this up!

I think of where I would be if I didn't have the surgery. I'm thinking probably on disability!

I can't say I had buyer's remorse, I had been through so much trying to lose weight, at the time, I was ready to get in there and do it. I do think we all go through are own things pre-surgery. One thing I do not have, is regret.

Patty

[PrtyAntOvrYt 6]

Did I read something about there being a special type of soap they want you to use after surgery, for the incision sites? I can't for the life of me remember where I read it.

Also, we just finished grocery shopping for my Full Liquids phase post-op. Also bought Vitamins, Protein Shakes, liquid tylenol, a pill crusher, etc...pretty much everything I need. $200 later.... Sure am lucky that my husband loves me, LOL!!!

don't forget to bring some chapstick with you! my lips were so dry after surgery! AND borrow a pillow from the hotel for your ride from the surgicenter -- you'll want to splint your tummy over speed bumps.

I remember bringing a pillow for Munchkin. She was so cute! She looked at me like I had two heads! Well, I was fat enough to have two heads!!!

[PrtyAntOvrYt 6]

So glad you brought this up!

I think of where I would be if I didn't have the surgery. I'm thinking probably on disability!

I can't say I had buyer's remorse, I had been through so much trying to lose weight, at the time, I was ready to get in there and do it. I do think we all go through are own things pre-surgery. One thing I do not have, is regret.

Patty

Yup! I'm like you Patty! Not one morsal of remorse or regret! I was just thrilled to get my Band.

I was ashamed of being that obese, but thankful I finally had a way out!

[jmegirl 2]

Before surgery, Hybacleanse ( I think that is how you spell it, blue bottle, colored pink soap) for three days, use that on your body surgery site instead of regular soap.

Liquid Tylenol is awesome for pain.

I lived on French Onion Soup minus the topping for the first week. I happen to love French Onion soup and the broth was just what I needed.

Other thoughts are Lipton noodle soup only empty the noodles in the trash and cook that chicken cube thingy.

I graduated to Gerber graduates.

Eat slow, one small baby sip at a time. Swallow, get use to that pause and then down it goes.

Water water water. Room temp. You will find cold liquids tend to cramp up your stomach tightly. Things don't seem to go through the pipes as smoothly so I drink things at room temp or slightly cool.

Those are things I thought to tell you right off the bat. You will mostly feel like sleeping.< /p>

Do you really have to use the special soap before surgery for 3 days??? I won't get any of that soap until Dee brings it to me about 12hrs before my surgery, LOL. I have to think it's an option though, because Dr. K didn't mention it to me at all. Though he might mention it at my pre-op appointment the day before surgery.

I bought some French Onion soup today! Also bought some broccoli cheese, cream of chicken and herb, and cream of mushroom and garlic. Low sugar oatmeal, cheddar grits, and several types of juices. SF hot chocolate! Gosh, I hope I got enough variety.

I think what you're feeling is absolutely normal. I had SERIOUS buyer's remorse in the last few days before my surgery. I started beating myself up over the money and my lack of willpower, and also started convincing myself that I would be a failure at the band. But I had already taken out the loan, bought the plane ticket, etc., and decided just to go through with it and hope for the best.

Well, I am so glad that I did it. I am one of the slower losers on here, but I'm still down to a lower weight than I have been in years and it's been relatively easy to get there. And the best part is, I know I won't gain it back. That's always been my downfall in the past.

So . . . just take a deep breath and know that you're doing the right thing. A year from now you'll look back and be so happy with your decision.

As for the supplies . . .yep, it's expensive to buy all the stuff you need. But your grocery/eating out bills are gonna' go way down. We are spending so much less on food now than we used to (we ate out a lot) and my husband is eating much healthier because I am.

So, go ahead and vent for the next few days as much as you need to, the get on that plane, go have a wonderful dinner with the lap band ladies, and start your new life. YAY FOR DR. K. and the LAPBAND!!!:thumbup::cursing:

What a great pep talk. I really needed that! :wink5:

Remind me and I'll bring the soap to RR on Tuesday night.

It's Hepacleanse (I may have spelled that wrong again! Munchkin>)

I took regular soup and just strained out the solids and ate that. I hate broth, it's so salty and it makes me nauseated.

I bought a strainer today! I hope I got the right kind. I figured the normal strainers that we have at the house are way too big. I got this hand-held one that's got very very small holes.

By the way, Dee - don't forget to bring the soap to RR on Tuesday. Consider this your reminder! :w00t:

Okay Sister Jaime!

It makes perfect sense. I admit that I am still ashamed of having to resort to such drastic measures to lose weight. I'm more ashamed, however, that I ever allowed myself to weigh as much as I did! What on earth was wrong with me? What I blind? Dumb? Or just not paying attention and living in denial?

Losing weight has always been easy for me. Gaining it back plus more has been easier! I am a smart girl when it comes to nutrition. I was raised in a home that was very health conscious... but yet with all the knowledge, I ate horribly -- in addition to my veggies and fruits. Nice, huh?

It's a lot of money to spend on ourselves. I know. But somehow, Jaime, we have to convince ourselves that we are worth that and so much more. It's time, we step back and realize that the past behaviors are not going to help us in the future. It's time to change. It's time to protect our well-being, care for ourselves and feel good about doing it.

I'm sure you love your hubby, just as much as I love my daughter. I couldn't imagine, leaving her due to obesity related health issues. I felt I had to do something... for me and for her.

We all understand where your head is -- ours were there and some days are still there.

Take a deep breath, grab another Protein Shake and settle into your new life -- the first day of the rest of a long - happy and healthy new Jaime.

Just think! You'll have two Birthdays! The day you entered this life and the day you started living again!

Hugs,

dee~

And again, another pep talk that was definitely needed. You guys are awesome! :wink:

don't forget to bring some chapstick with you! my lips were so dry after surgery! AND borrow a pillow from the hotel for your ride from the surgicenter -- you'll want to splint your tummy over speed bumps.

I remember bringing a pillow for Munchkin. She was so cute! She looked at me like I had two heads! Well, I was fat enough to have two heads!!!

What great advice! Chapstick - got it! I also bought sugar free cough drops, cuz I figured my throat would be really sore after surgery. Am I allowed to have them that soon after surgery??

I'm not sure I'll need a pillow to brace the tummy. Our hotel is less than two miles from Parker. The Hampton Inn? Dee, any ideas where that is?

[deboregon 0]

Okay, here are some updated totals. Bella, I adjusted this weeks weight loss to bring your total loss to -24. Brandy, I set yours at a total of -7 last week, so when you update this week I can put your total. Dee, I had you down for 0 last week, but let me know if that was wrong.

Well, I only lost 7 lbs for the entire challenge. That kinda' sucks, but I had a pretty good week this week so I'm hoping that I'm past my plateau. Fingers crossed.

Adorkable Goal: 15/wk1: +5/wk2:-5/wk3: -1/wk4:-1/wk5:-0/wk6:?/wk7:?/wk8?/Total?

Bahotmomma Goal: 17/ wk 1:-1/wk2:?/wk3:+4/wk4:-4/wk5:-3/wk6:-2/wk7:-1/wk8:?/total:?

BellaPerdente Goal: 25/wk1:0/wk2:-7/wk3:-2/wk4:-7/wk5:-1/wk6:-2/wk7:-4/wk8:-6/Total:-29:hurray:

Bookholder Goal: 15/wk 1: +1:laugh:

Brandymom Goal: 20/ wk1:-3.5/wk2:-0/wk7:-3.5/wk8:?/Total:?

Deboregon Goal: 15/ wk 1:-1.4/wk2:+1.2/wk3:-3/wk4:-2.2/wk5:-3/wk6:=.2/wk7:-2/wk8:?/Total:?

DenverGirl Goal: 8/ wk1:-2/wk2:0/wk3:+2/wk4:-2:thumbup:

Greenchrysalis Goal: 15/ wk 1: -2 :wink:

Lifesaver Goal: 15/wk1:+1/wk2:-3/wk3:-1

Lotzasunshine Goal: 20/wk1:-2/wk2:0/wk3:-.5/wk4:-1.5/wk5:-1.5/wk6:-2/wk7:-.5/wk8:-.5/Total:8

Marcyinak Goal: 16/wk 1:-4/wk2:-0/wk3:-.5/wk6:-0/wk7:0/wk8:?/Total:?

Minidriver Goal: 16/wk1:-0/wk2:-2.4/wk3:-.8/wk4:-1/wk5:-0/wk6:-1.1/wk7:+1/wk8:-2.7/Total:-7:hurray:

Munchkin Goal: 15/wk1:+1/wk2:-3/wk3:-2/wk4:-2/wk5:?/wk6:-1/wk7:-0/wk8:?/Total:?

PrtyAntOvrYt Goal: 28/wk1:+.8/wk2:-.8/wk3:-3.2/wk4:-1.8/wk5:-2.4/wk6:0/wk7:0/wk8:-5.4/Total:-13.2:hurray:

ShelbiCallie Goal: 22/wk1:0/wk2:0

Sidann Goal: 19/wk 1: -2:laugh:

My total loss was 17.2; so i exceeded (a little) my expectations!:cursing:

[minidriver 0]

Dr. K. just told me to shower really well the morning before surgery. He didn't make me use hibicleanse. So I definitely wouldn't worry about the 3 day thing. I just used an antibacterial body wash for a few days before I went.