HopeThruFaith

Thanks for sharing that Deb.

I was sleeved March 20 and down 83 lbs. I am still not meeting my daily protein/liquid goals but I feel like I eat more than the recommended one to two ounces. I am more like 2-4. My nutritionist told me to stick with 75 grams of protein, 60-70 carbs, 48-64 ounces of water and 60 min of cardio everyday. It seems like a lot but I'll do what I can to stick to the program.

I was a 38 DDD. I've lost 83 lbs in 13 weeks. My boobs have shrunk but ironically I'm still in the same bra. I just buckle it in the middle instead if the end. LB makes some real good bras. Go ahead and buy two in a smaller size. Keep them in the bag with the tags and receipt just in case you need to exchange for a better fit that way you can take advantage of the sale.

You have to be with your employer for a year or have worked 1250 hours in order for FMLA to cover your leave of absence. Most jobs will approve a "medical leave" for surgery or major illness but not sure how long you have to be on your job before they will. I hope it all works out for you.

I had the worst time with Cigna. I went round and round with them for months. Just be persistent and don't give up. The same thing happened to me. My PCP had wrote a letter but they STILL asked for a letter from a doctor other than my surgeon. So, I scheduled an appointment with my PCP to get a "surgical clearance" which is just like a physical minus the female exam. She wrote me up as being cleared for surgery and I got my approval. The insurance companies are very meticulous about what they want but sometimes not so clear about what it is they want us to send. If you still get a denial I would try calling your PCP for that "surgical clearance" letter. I'll keep you in my thoughts...hope it works out.

Congratulations. I know EXACTLY how you feel. I had the same reaction when I heard I was approved. You deserve this. Have you for a surgery date yet?

This happened to be also. Fortunately for me though it was while I was still under the influence. I could feel it there somewhat but not enough to where it freaked me out. I vaguely remember when they were taking it out (still under the influence) I THINK I heard someone say blow or breathe or something (needless to say I did nothing) and I felt the tube glide right on out. As I became more lucid I noticed that my right nostril was numb and without feeling. Apparently they numbed it prior to inserting the tube. It was a piece of cake. Nothing to be scared of. You will do great!!!

I agree. She may be jealous since she doesn't have the guts herself to take control over her own weight issues. Take it in stride. YOU are making this decision for YOU. Not everyone will see the logic in it but it's not about them it's about you. You're gonna do great with the sleeve.

Thanks for responding. I may just call the doc on Tuesday. I was hoping it was just swelling. I don't buy stuff like that any more. My mother was visiting and had went to subway and got a sandwich and chips. I had a terrible day at work and was reliving me day as I was explaining it to her. I was so mad that I was eating and fussing all at the same time. It felt so natural b/c I've been so accustomed to eating to deal with stress in my past. I definitely learned my lesson. Just hope it didnt damage my sleeve.

Please advised: I'll be 10 weeks on Tuesday. On Wed of last week I ate some chips and threw them up. I know...I shouldn't have allowed my stress levels get to me that way and I feel terribly guilty. It was out of habit and just felt so natural that i wasn't really aware of what i was doing until my stomach started to rebel. My issue though is that I have not been able to eat without some pain or awkward sensations. I feel swollen, like I'm really restricted. Swelling is one thing and I know it'll take some time for it to go away but should I be worried? I mean, if I tore something or had an abscess or stricture I would have offer symptoms...right?

I'm a nurse and I took 6 weeks off. I needed every minute of it despite not having any complications. I was exhausted and not able to hold down any food. My hat goes off to those that can go right back to work.

HopeThruFaith..,add me too

I thought I was the only one. I lose 10-15 pounds then nothing for 3 weeks. It is SO discouraging. I know it's my body just adjusting but I can't help but think if I keep losing weight at this rate I'll be at goal in no time. :0)

Hey guys, I too had surgery March 20. You guys are doing great. I've struggled with getting my protein and water in daily, how are you guys doing? I've lost 45 since surgery but a total of 68 counting the pre op diet but that all happened during month one. I've been in a stall for about 3 weeks now...this is depressing b/c I'm worried I won't get off the rest.

I have Cigna. My deductible was $1925 with an Out Of Pocket of $3300. My policy also has a $250 hospitalization clause which I did not have to pay. The most you can expect to pay is your Out of Pocket. Once that is satisfied you will be covered at 100%. My policy did allow for my co-pays to be applied to my deductible and OOP. Call Cigna to find out for sure because each policy will be a little different.

Yes my restriction has "relaxed" quite a bit. I'm sure with the healing process and the reduction of swelling I'm able to eat a little more. One thing I did notice and am excited about is being able to drink more. I am JUST now getting to the point to where I can drink my 64 oz of water. I'm still struggling with my protein shakes though.

I too seem to have a bad reaction to eggs and I used to love them before. I eat turkey bacon every morning with no problems.

I had my surgery March 20, 2012 and was so tight that I was miserable ALL the time. I burped uncontrollablely more so when I ate but it occurred even when I wasn't eating. My NP told me my surgeon made my stomach really small but I would adjust as I continued to heal. And sure enough as each day passes it's getting better and better. I'm able to eat a little bit more and the burping only occurs when I'm full. My fear of never being able to enjoy food and be "normal" has now been replaced with have I stretched my stomach is my restriction gone? This whole journey has been one big huge mind trip I tell you but I am trying like mad to make this work for me. Hang in there...it WILL get better.

Bananas will help with diarrhea because of the potassium. I had this problem also when I wasn't on the other end of the spectrum (constipated). You're not eating a lot of food with consistency since you're in the mushy stage. Mushy goes in mushy comes out...it should pass once you start eating more solids. Hang in there!!!

My family was not supportive either. It hurts but I decided to not include them in my journey and continue with the process for MYSELF. They eventually came around AFTER the procedure. A lot of it could be they are just afraid for you. Nevertheless do this for you, you deserve it. I hope it all goes well.

I totally felt the exact same way. How much water and protein are you taking on daily? Some times when we are not getting in enough fluid dehydration will simulate hunger. Once I increased my protein and water I didn't feel ravenous all the time.

You look great!!! Congratulations on your hard work. Have you had any issues with your skin?

The multi-complete chewable has Iron and comes in a Forest berry Flavor. The Calcium Plus 500 are Orange Burst. My doc thinks my new pouch is just still a little sensitive so she suggested the capsules for me.

I wish I felt that way also. I purchased Celebrate bariatric vitamins and they make me physically I'll. They are free to a good home. I had to order capsules...I hope they go down easily.

Thanks you guys. I loved your ideas. I think I will try the pork rinds and stash some string cheese in my purse. I will make sure to eat before I go though. I don 't want to associate food with entertainment but after doing it for so long it's kinda ingrained in me. It is something I am diligently working on though ;0)