Pagie

hi there- my surgery was sept 14th and I'm here to tell u that it does get better. here's a couple of things that helped me. a daily pepcid ac (recommended by my doc for the first 6 weeks), gas-x strips ( recommended by my doc for the first 2 weeks), walking, drinking diluted fruit juices or Gatorade the first few days instead of trying to get water down, drinking sitting up or standing, and lastly, PATIENCE. I THINK THE LAST THING WAS THE HARDEST FOR ME. Its true what they say, each day it gets a little better. hope this is helpful. you're on the right track now. you can do it.

my surgeon fixed mine too. I had no idea I even had it.

thank you all for sharing your journey. looking forward to joining you. sept 14th my journey begins.

I know that everyone's journey will be different. But just wondering, how much at you lost at 3 months?

Just got word that insurance approved my surgery. I will probably be going in within the next month. Excited and scared at the same time. Anybody know that feeling?

thanks wondering. u know what they say, a watched pot never boils. so I've gotta pretend not 2 b counting down the days till I hear something. lol

I completed my 3rd nutritional counseling session with the dietician. Got a letter of support from my primary care physician; and completed my psych evaluation. I've met all my insurance's requirements - I wait My patient advocate for the bariatric program submits for insurance approval today. She's pretty confident I will get approved, but I will believe it when I see it. Hoping for a response in 2-3 weeks. It will be the best phone call of the year.

this post was moved to the pre-op forum. sorry

Happy Monday - and thanks to you all for sharing your experiences. I can relate in many ways to all of your stories and struggles. I struggle with feeling worthy enough to be happy. - Well guess what? It's time for a new "sleeve" on life. I'm dropping this fat blanket like its hot, and letting all the good that life has to offer go right to my soul! This July 4th - Celebrate your Independence from Obesity!!!! All the best to all my VSG family.

Adri - I pray that you continue to do well post-chemo. And thanks for the encouragement. I wish you much success during this exciting journey. You deserve it.

thanks Jane and Lindsey. I've got short hair to begin with. just want to be prepared. several on line articles stress keeping the protein intake over 70grms. and taking biotin, etc. I plan to try to do this to mitigate the loss. thanks again.

Thanks Suzannesh for the encouragement. I am amazed at the number if people who self pay for the surgery. I wonder if there's ever been a study done to compare the long term success of those who've had bariatric surgery that was covered by insurance vs. those who were self pay. I'm just curious. I doubt there would be much difference in the outcomes but it would be interesting to see. Thanks to all my VST fam. I know I'm not alone.

thanks for sharing your story Bryn. I know how you feel/felt. thanks for the well wishes. I'm convinced this is the right thing for me.

thanks apple-saucy.

Thanks for sharing your experience w hair loss Ladyblue & Foxbins.

does everyone lose hair at some point during the weight loss? I just wanna be prepared.

Thanks for sharing your experience Mina. I can totally relate.

When you can't live the life you want, that's certainly reason enough. thanks for sharing your story Miss Bliss.

thanks for sharing your story Stacey. IT'S time.

It's funny how I've thought of many of your reasons too. but it makes me sad when I realize how limited my life has been because of this weight. here's my list. in random order: 1. to be healthy 2. to have a pretty face for a girl any size ( I love this one) 3. to cross my legs 4. to run marathons 5. to polish my toes 6. to love hugs and displays of affection 7. because I deserve it 8. to be remembered for what I say not how I look 9. because I am funny - even if I wasn't fat 10. because I'm in control- not food 11. because my husband doesnt care about my weight- just my health ( he's a great guy) 12. because I love me!

I'm going thru my insurance requirements to get my sleeve. I know it's the right thing I'm doing. just wanted to poll the forum to find out when you knew "it was time". I'm scared to do it, but more scared that my health problems will worsen if I don't. I could use a little moral support. hoping to have insurance approval by mid-august.