MsVictorious1020

So happy for you! I cant for the day that I have the energy and stamina to run.

Thanks all! no more than 4 high protein/low sugar shakes and nothing but clear liquids. Low Sodium chicken broth, sugar free jello, sugar free popsicles, tea, coffee, skim milk, clear juices like cranberry, apple juice and grape juice.

Thank you sweets! I really feel stronger and more capable of taking on this lifestyle change.

I'm so very proud to say I'm on day 3 of the preop diet and I've stuck to it religiously. I haven't had 1 slip up. I even went as far as going to a crawfish boil at my best friend's house which was full of delicious foods and alcohol. I patiently drank my protein shakes and chicken broth. Sipped on water all night and still had a blast. My friends have been so very supportive and loving. I will admit I did bust into tears briefly from feeling a little overwhelmed. But the important thing is I'm sticking with it! I've found strength and determination I didn't know were there. I have to admit I'm feeling a bit like Wonder Woman. Lol

Thanks.

I've heard you actually GAIN a sex drive. But I haven't been sleeved yet.

I love this post! Welcome welcome welcome. It's so honest. You will do awesome. Oh and make friends on here. There are some really inspirational stories to be shared. I personally enjoy the chat room because you can get to know people a lil better.

Woohoo! I remember that day. What a wonderful feeling. I wanted to shout it from the rooftops. I of course opted not to because people can be so opinionated. Your new life is starting right now. Just do your research make connections and get your support system up. You will do awesome!!!

You don't get as hungry as you would think but its rough the first few days. I'm on day 2 and I am getting a lil crabby. As long as I take my protein shakes on time and drink my broth in between shakes I'm ok. I'm a huge water drinker so I've been drinking like a camel. Just don't plan anything too stressful on that week. I would get all your supplies for surgery beforehand so you're not doing too much.

Thank you all! I did just that. I took a break and drank some ice cold water. I took some deep breaths and said a lil prayer. Whew

Hahaha. Unfortunately I'm only on my 2nd day. My surgery isn't til 04/04/13. I think I need to pray.

OMG! I think I may need to start my leave from work early! I'm getting SO crabby on this preop liquid diet. I'm usually pretty good at restraining my thoughts but TODAY?! Ummmnn not so much. I just went off on a subordinate at work. Oops. Word to the wise....steer clear of idiots while on this diet. You may not be able to resist losing it. LMBO

Ok perhaps I'm being overly cautious/sensitive but I'm a tad bit perplexed. When I joined the forum I did it with the intention of finding encouragement and support along my sleeve journey. In reading the threads and discussions I can't help but notice so many comments on how to get around the diets and surgeons instructions. I know it's incredibly difficult to do everything perfectly and I don't mean to sound judgmental. I just thought I would see less "cheating tips" and more positive reinforcement. I too realize everybody's different and every surgeon has different instructions. I just want to make sure I follow everything to the letter of the law so that I can be successful in using this tool that will be giving me. As well as ensuring I am avoid any unnecessary complications. Am I wrong?

We have the same surgery date!!! I started my preop liquid diet yesterday and it was murderous. But I made it through. Let me know if u need any support.

Cool.

Cool.

Thx Houston!

Thx Houston!

Day 1 of preop liquids and I've come to realize the horrible addiction I have to eating. I'm not sure if its nerves or the fact that I know I can't eat but all I want to do is chew something. This is ridiculous. I'm not even hungry. Call it oral fixation or eating addiction but Houston we have a problem. I'm so ashamed I never realized this sooner. Hopefully this week off foods will help prepare me for what's to come. I refuse to give in and cheat on my diet. I am not not have ever been a quitter. I will conquer this. I have to in order to have a safe surgery and optimal results. Btw...Swansons low sodium chicken broth is so bland. Lmbo.

If you were in Dallas I could totally help you find one. Some employers offer what is called an Employee Assistance Program and they can offer guidance on counselors and psychiatrists. Another resource could be your ob/gyn and primary care physician. Most OBs deal with postpartum depression so they have referrals. Your surgeon may also have some recommendations for you. Just some thoughts.

Awesome. Thanks everyone!

This makes my heart ache for those of you who are suffering. Im glad ive kept my psychiatrist involved from the beginning. Ive always been very self aware and in tune with my feelings. Perhaps it wont be as hard. Everyone is different and reacts differently. Id encourage you to find a good support group and prepare your friends and family now. You have to do what's best for you. I dont think you should base your decision solely on your sister's experience. If you go in with eyes wide open you may not be impacted near as bad if at all.

This is very helpful information thank you. Do you guys mind if I there was a history of depression before or was the first time u experienced depression? I ask because I'm bipolar and I need to closely monitor behavior/mood changes. I've been stable for 3 years on meds.

I work for a corporation and have been trained on FMLA and LOA. I am in Texas so laws may differ from state to state. I am also in management. I can understand why you are worried and reasonably so. I had a HORRIBLE boss before who made my life a living hell. When I had to take a LOA she was calling and emailing me following up when I was supposed to come back. I can quote you laws for corporations but I am not very familiar with job protection in your situation. You may want to consult Equal Employment Opportunity Commission for guidance. I am taking the maximum amount of time my surgeon and physicians will approve. I am fortunate to have decent benefits. I can take up to 7 weeks paid at 100%/60% after that, have job protection for 12 weeks. My situation is a lil different because I am also Bipolar and I am on several medications that need to be monitored and regulated post op. Ok I am rambling sorry. Another thing is, you are not required to inform your boss why you are needing leave. They cannot/should not know the medical details per HIPPA. All you are required to disclose is that you need medical leave and fill out the paperwork. your HR dept would handle the detailed medical documents and are bound by law not to disclose with your mangement the reasons why.