MINI-Me

I don't have specific facts, but I think the majority of us are not hungry. Some mistake acid or head hunger for real hunger. And, unfortunately, there is a portion of sleevers who do get hungry. (And, I think that's why you hear more from those people - it's just not fair for them! :wink0:) I can honestly say that I have not felt any of the hunger I felt before surgery. I used to be hungry all the time. Now, my head is often hungry, but luckily, just a bite or two will satisfy. I do know when I need food because I get a slight weak feeling or a rumble in my tummy. It's very hard to explain because it is not the same rumble that I was used to having. Since I'm not one of the sleevers who gets hungry, I really can't speak to that. Hopefully, it's like my head hunger and a bite or two takes care of the real hunger.

A couple of options: Try part skim string cheese - 6g Protein and 80 calories. If you still do Protein shakes, look for additives such as Peanut Butter. Try upping your protein (chicken, fish, etc) portion just a bit - maybe add 1/4 to 1/2 ounce and see if you can tolerate it. Did you ever think you'd have the problem of not being able to eat enough? :wink0:

Congratulations on your date. VERY exciting. I prepared by reading everything I could & being on this forum constantly. LOL. The counseling will be good. Have you met with a nutritionist yet? They will give you loads of information to read and study. I also did a lot of shopping so that I had plenty of "legal" foods on hand for when I got home. One word of advice - try to find some Protein Shakes that you like, but don't overstock on them. A lot of them will just not taste the same after surgery. Some that I thought were ok prior, just turned my stomach afterward - bad gag reflex. There are several threads about sample packets - that would be a good place to start. If you are addicted to soda, this would be a good time to wean off the caffeine. You don't want those caffeine withdrawal headaches in conjunction with surgery healing. Best of luck. Can't wait to hear how your journey goes.

Can't help with the weight loss close to or at goal (still have a bit to go there) ... but I can comment on the Peanut Butter. It is on my plan as a good source of Protein. But, as another person commented, I would not follow our advice. Ask your nut why they say it's a no-no. And then, let us know! :party4:

So glad you were able to make a decision. Good for you! Now, all you have to do is get the date & start looking forward to your new life. Yahoo!!!

I just had to take the letter to a local DOL and they issued a temp tag for my rearview mirror.

Congratulations on your surgery and welcome. How are you taking in your protein? If shakes, they can be counted towards your 64+ ounces of Fluid each day.

Will definitely keep you in my prayers. I think you may have a good case due to the medical issues you had with the band. I'm sure your surgeon's office has had practice dealing with these type of issues. Most likely, you will get a denial letter, but your surgeon can present an appeal case and should be able to win it. Fingers are crossed and prayers going up.

I say plan to try, but have a back-up plan. I would feel fine at first, and then be extremely tired the next minute. For a back-up plan, do you have handicapped parking closer to your building? If so, your surgeon could write a letter for a temporary handicap pass for the first month. My doctor did this for me when I was recovering from lung surgery a few years ago & it was literally a lifesaver!

It might not hurt to try ... all they can say is no. Plus, if you can't get to goal with the sleeve (not that I think you won't), you always have part 2 pre-approved!

I've heard some people have the surgeon submit for a 2 part DS - with the sleeve being the first stage. They just never went back to have the 2nd part done. Is your BMI high enough to qualify for DS?

It sounds like you've really done your homework. Fortunately for me, I didn't have 2 surgeons that so closely compared to one another - my choice was very easy. No one can tell you what to do, but A being a pioneer & having so much experience would be tempting to me. It doesn't sound like you would go wrong with either choice. Maybe you should just flip that coin??? :thumbup1:

That is fabulous news. I know you are looking forward to Summer Vacation even more this year. Not much longer!

Absolutely FABULOUS!!!!

Congratulations. Going just by stats, I would say A has more experience & should be the #1 choice. But, what does your gut tell you? Did you feel more comfortable and confident with one versus the other? Are they going to be providing your aftercare or will your PCP closer to home?

Don't you wish there really was a magic pill (or book) that could sort this all out for us? :thumbup: Oh well, this tool is doing a good job for me. I still have over 30 pounds to lose until maintenance - I should "get it" by then!

Fingers are definitely crossed for you!

I am not disagreeing, but wonder why the choices make a difference if the calories are the same. Haven't we all been taught that a calorie is a calorie for weightloss/gain? I know the difference in nutrition, but why would you lose/gain from the same # of calories?

Best wishes for a great surgery and speedy recovery. Can't wait to hear how it goes and to see your progress.

I have actually had the opposite issue - with all the Vitamins, Calcium and Iron, my nails are growing like crazy. Before, mine were very brittle and I used to have acrylic nails to keep my nails from being stubby. (I quit having them done to save money for my MINI and the surgery.) Are you following your supplement recommendations?

That is so awesome. Not only has your research and bravery helped your health, you've been a positive influence on another life. What a great bond for you guys. THAT IS TERRIFIC!!!

Fair enough! :thumbup:

I was open with my kids too (19, 16, and 8) ... For the youngest, I told him that mommy needed her tummy fixed because it made her want to eat too much. I showed him some diagrams and he thought it was kinda cool - but not very interested. What was funny was when I returned home. He had gotten it in his head that I would come home skinny. Boy! Did I disappoint him! But, now he makes comments like "I like hugging you and reaching all the way around". Makes me smile everytime!

I may have asked you this already, so forgive me if this is a repeat ... But, are you going to attend the VSG Meetings at Steven's Hospital? The next one is Tuesday, the 20th from 7:00 - 8:30 in the cafeteria (kind of ironic - huh)? Melanie distributes materials for the Facilitator to review with the group. It's nice to have support - especially when you are learning how to use your tool. Let me know if you have any questions.

Very excellent advice - I've marked the ones that EVERYONE should remember (or at least I humbly think so! :thumbup:) 1. I am pleased I had the procedure but this is a BIG DAMN DEAL! 2. Never underestimate how kind strangers can be. 5. Heating pads really help with gas pains. 6. Walk every chance you can post op. 8. Don't overpack 9. Allow people to help you. Even if you have to ask. 11. I am really blessed to have a wonderful support group at home. 12. Don't overpack 13. Don't overpack 14. Don't overpack 15. Don't overpack 16. Don't overpack 17. Don't overpack 18. Don't overpack 19. Don't overpack 20. Don't overpack Seriously, glad to hear that you are doing well & back home safe and sound. Can't wait to hear your report next Monday!