karen_golfs

No one told me not to drink - I just decided on my own. Never even discussed it with my doctor. Liver shrinkage was the main reason since alcohol is bad for the liver. But I take back my advice - everyone must make their own decisions.

I wouldn't do it - in fact my surgery is Dec 27 and I haven't had any liquor for about a month. Had plenty of fun with my friends, so it can be done. Lime or lemon wedges do wonders to add a little color to juices or water. Good luck with your surgery.

Great boss. You did the right thing. I wish you nothing but good luck. Keep us posted!

I think I've done everything I can, short of posting on Facebook, to tell my friends about my upcoming surgery. I'm in agreement, confess and go from there. As women, it's so hard not to care about what other people think of us. We know we shouldn't care - but we all do. I applaud you in your efforts to be healthy. I wish you only the best in your journey.

What brand of shakes have you been using? What are you mixing them with? Any premix? Fortunately, there are dozens of brands and flavors of protein. Keep hunting til you find one you can use. I have some Unjury mixes that I mix with Silk Lite. I have never had soy milk before and was determined not to like it. I was so wrong! Unjury make an unflavored protein you can mix in anything - sugar free jello, sugar free pudding, soup (that is not over 140 degrees). I hope you get relief soon!

Are you getting enough protein? 60 grams a day should be about normal. If not enough protein is consumed, the body goes into survival mode and no weight loss occurs. Talk to your dietician.

I use Silk Lite and Unjury - in the blender - no foam!

The surgery definitely messes with our hormones - sometime knowing that will help a little. Are you getting plenty of protein? Calories are not as important this early out. If you don't feel better, contact your medical team.

I'm in Arkansas.

My date is 12-27 also. Still have the sleep study and pulmonary testing to go. My insurance won't pay for bariatric so I am self pay. Lots of nurses in my support group at Mercy. Good luck to all of us!

Looks great.

I've been thinking about what I will say to folks. I'm pretty much an open book and have told all my friends what I am having done. Here's my plan - say "Thank You" and change the subject. At a gathering you can always see someone you really need to say hi to and walk away. I refuse to let anyone try to make me feel badly about myself and my health choices. This is no different than breastfeeding my babies. I always hear women say they couldn't nurse for some reason or another. I change the subject (my babies are 32 and 31). I wish you good luck and thick skin.

Good job! I guess bottled water is going to be your best friend for social situations. I'm also preop and take water everywhere for that very reason. Keep us posted.

Good report - I'm taking notes as my surgery is December 27. I think the hardest part will be the small sips. As mothers, we learn to eat fast before the baby notices we ae eatng. My babies are 32 and 31 - you'd think I'd have slowed down by now!! Please keep us posted as to your progress.

Keep focused on the reasons you are having surgery. That's the most important thing. Count of your mom and friends and let the chips fall where they may. i wish you luck.

Thanks for the update. I wish you continued success. Hopefully you'll be back in bed soon!

My date is December 27 and my pre-op starts December 18. Good luck to you and hope to hear great things!

The baby is adorable - so much hair! You are rocking the jeans. Good luck on the journey.

I think that's a good plan. You are gonna need lots of rest.

I really like the Unjury chicken broth - quite tasty. Cannot use water over 140 degrees - the protein will clump up.

Just swish it around your mouth and spit it out!

You can't beat homemade chicken or beef broth. My husband has several of each in the freezer.

Hi Dana - my date is December 27. Not from New Orleans but sure do love the cuisine! Good luck

Congratulations - now you can be another advice giver!

Each insurance, doctor and hospital have their own rules - and they are not all the same! My insurance does not cover bariatric, so my process took only a few months. Amazing what a little cash can do!