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9 days out

So I finally decided to post to my blog. I am not sure how often I will do this since I am not a 'natural journaler'. I had my surgery Jan 15th, and I have had a fairly good healing process. Here are a few things I have done/learned/figured out- but not in order: ( I am a list maker so heck!)

 

 

1. I packed too much for my trip to Mexico. I bought EVERYTHING on the master list that I picked up. The most important things for me were my robe, my comfy yoga pants, my bedroom slippers, and a 'comfy-non-tight' top.

 

2. I was glad that I picked Dr. Alvarez as my surgeon. I feel that the care I received was top notch, and I think the reason why my recovery has been a little easier than it would have been.

 

3. Hallelujah for antacids and pain meds. Those first two days... oh boy!

 

4. I had to fly back home. I would recommend asking for wheelchair access if you were as uncomfortable wheeling/walking/tired as I was. It looked strange for me being fairly able on a wheelchair, but it was worth it. Also- now is a good time for a flight upgrade

 

5. I hated the taste of the protein drinks, but I have discovered water + protein drink. So I have to drink more (which is OK), but the protein drinks that I have been having- Isopure and those bullets just did not taste as great without the dilution.

 

6. UNJURY unflavored - has a FLAVOR- and my taste buds don't like the flavor. But I suck it up and drink it anyway. And it has texture too.... arrgghhh- don't get me started!

 

7. Walking has been a toughie for me. Just no energy. I have been saving my 'sugared drinks' (read: apple juice) as my energy booster. I don't know why/how- but it has given me some energy.

 

8. I was excited for full liquids, but I have only had one today since I went out to dinner. I had tomato soup. It was yummy.

 

9. I did not need to get staples taken off. Something about them getting absorbed. I still don't get it. Maybe someone can explain it to me.

 

10. Most importantly. I am down 11.2 pounds in 9 days. I figured I will be a slow loser, but I am perfectly happy with this number.

 

KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON.

5 Comments

Recommended Comments

deedee

LAP-BAND Patients

What a wonderful blog entry. Thank you for sharing all you are doing/learning. I also have never kept a journal (successfully) in my life until now with this blog. Just post when you feel you have something to share. Good luck on continued success!

filodough

Gastric Sleeve Patients

Thanks for the comment DeeDee. You were part of my inspiration for starting to write it down. I feel like your blog/pictures/journey have been really helpful in my own journey.

coco517117

LAP-BAND Patients

Hey Girl - you sound very well and that your recovery seamless!

I will be sleeve with my mother as my "sleeve-sista" on 2/15 with Dr. Alvarez. I am nervous for both of us. I have already asked dr. A for a larger bougie (40) as I don't want too much stricture/reflux potential. He is very nice and hospitable is every way.

Your advice about what to pack was key - can you tell me if you brought any liquids/proteins for the night in san antonio and day after with your flight? I may bring a powder to slip into my water. Hope your continued recovery is successful...

Best,

Ann

filodough

Gastric Sleeve Patients

Hey Coco, THanks for your friend request. I think you will really like Dr Alvarez and his team. During my stay there he came over to see me about three to four times each time, and this is in addition to all the nurses/attendants checking on me.

I got a 32 bougie. My understanding is that it does not make a huge difference (apparently millimetres difference).

I did not have to do the liquid diet since my BMI is on the lower end. I did take the UNJURY protein powder that I mixed into my drink on the way back from the airport. (But I have to admit I did not like the taste of it a day after discharge).

Good luck to you and your mom Ann. I know it will go wonderful for you as well.

sleevegenie

LAP-BAND Patients

Congratulations, how exciting, i'm hoping to be as lucky. My paperwork was submitted today to my medical group so now i'm in waiting mode. Good luck i know you'll do great.

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