earthchick97

As crazy as it sounds "Weight Loss Surgery for Dummies" is a great resource. It has a lot of info for those deciding on surgery, but it also walks through the surgery process, hospital stay, coming home and returning to work. It also has tons of recipes and information regarding the various stages of eating (liquid, puree, soft and full diet). I think it's a wonderful resource for anyone considering or who has had WLS.

For fluid intake - I have a water bottle and keep track of the ounces consumed. Try also spicing it up with sugar free drinks, because variety helps with the montony of water only.

Lorie -

Whioo on your surgery date! I hope all goes well with returning to work the following Monday. Does your job require any heavy lifting? If you have an office job, you should be ok, but strength will definitely be of concern. I still find myself tiring a lot quicker now than I did before surgery. I hope with time my energy/stamina will improve. Today is my actual first day back at work (although I worked from home some last week).

As for the hospital stay - I brought tons of magazines, changes of clothes, etc. which all were not necessary for me. I stayed in the hosptial gown until right before I left because of the IVs and drain that are in and frankly it is just easier. As for reading in the hospital I couldn't do it. With the pain medicine and focusing on fluids and walking I couldn't read. If you have enough energy, take a shower...it does WONDERS.

If you have a long ride (or bumpy) home, consider having a pillow in the car that you can hug to help if you are in pain.

Good Luck and please keep us posted on your journey!