Angi~2014

I can really relate to what you shared... and yes, from what I have heard and continue to hear what we are going through is absolutely normal. The mixed emotions and general roller coaster.... I think it is just a part of thinking things through and in the middle of those thoughts come all the "what if's" etc. I am waiting on my surgery date, but I expect it to be in July. Best wishes on your surgery. and yes we can do this! =)

Just wanted to say, Thank You! to ALL who posted/ replied. This truly is helpful! =)

Thank you for sharing this! It is a great encouragement... thanks =)

Your doctor should give you a plan. The first month is a little rough. You do have to sip, sip, sip to get your water in. Definitely work on getting your protein in too. But don't progress faster than you are suppose to. Don't eat things you know aren't healthy. Always eat your protein first & stop eating when you feel full. Don't "graze" all day, cause you will definitely eat too much. My doctor also suggests no bread, rice, Pasta or potatoes for a year. I'm 4 months out & it's easier to get off track now. I could eat anything, but everything is not a good idea (even in small amounts). If you weren't given a plan, let me know. I will share mine with you. It progressed slowly over 6 weeks. It's definitely doable. Best of luck! Though I am not yet sleeved, I may want a copy of your plan (in future). I am not certain that my doctor gives one... I think there are 'generalized' guidelines, but I know from one of the pre-op nutrition meetings, they mentioned having potatoes and some small starches, which I try to avoid because I am diabetic. I may find out more in general, this Friday I have my pre-op class.... so I will find out more.... BUT... long story short, I would love to have a copy of your plan... (when the time comes) =)

Thank you so very much for sharing! This truly helped me a lot. I can relate to what you shared about not wanting to share pictures and I commend you for sharing them with me... You look great! I am truly hopeful hearing you share that not only is it possible, but that there are others who have had that same success. I know not every journey is the same, but knowing that it is possible to break through and go beyond the limited expectations (the ones that you generally hear of... 60% of excess weight loss) that helps me greatly and caused a change in my mindset.... that my goal can be reached. =) Congratulations on your successful journey! =)

Thank you for the continued encouragement! I appreciate the support so very much. Have a great time at your reunion! I can relate to what you shared.... I look forward to being able to travel again, even if it is just local day trips. I am so thankful to have found BariatricPal, and thankful for the connections and friendships that are building. It truly helps to have people who can truly relate and understand what you are going through. I agree it is great for us (all) to keep in touch. Talk to you soon, and have a great reunion! Angi

Hello, I am making my way closer to my surgery day... which is expected to be in July 2014. I am very excited, but also battling nervousness... which I know is normal. One fear that seems to be hitting me is the fear of proceeding with this surgery and not losing all the weight that I need to. I hear of many that lose in 90s and 100 pounds, and please don't misunderstand me, that is outstanding... really, I am not making light of that (I am not making light of any amount loss, because all that is lost is a victory) I am just getting a bit scared because I know that I need to lose over 100 pounds and it scares me to think it wont happen. I am doing my best to keep positive and keep pressing toward that goal. What didn't help me was, looking up information in the hopes to encourage me and finding many places that tell me the opposite, saying that there are limits to the amount of weight you can lose even with having the sleeve... that truly made my heart sink, but also it created confusion too. I know that the sleeve is a tool, and see it as such... so I am thinking that if that is so, why would there be a low limit of weight to lose ...*basing that on if you still need to lose that weight and put in the effort* am I making sense with this rambling..lol Long(er) story short, has anyone come through this losing more than what was 'predicted'? Has anyone with a similar challenge lost over the 100 pound mark? ANY AND ALL INSIGHT, ENCOURAGMENT, ETC. WOULD BE TRULY HELPFUL... Sincerely, Angi

Hello Linda, I just saw your post and it sound like we have a local chapter? That sounds great... I am not yet able to get out and about that much, so sadly I couldn't meet on June 28th, but I would very much like to be a part of this group for fellowship and support. I am making my way toward surgery. I just had my final nutritional class yesterday. I have my pre-op class Friday June 27th. Then all documents etc, go to the doctors office and insurance. They will then schedule me for an appointment with Dr. Ucal and I guess I will know a date at that point. I received my cardiology clearance 2 weeks ago, and my pulmonology clearance was received this week. I also had an appointment with my physician, which was overdue and I was able to talk with him about my making the decision to get sleeved. He was very encouraging and seemed truly happy to hear that I made that decision. (he was one of the first doctors that asked me to consider surgery for my health) So it will be good to know that I have a physician that will be involved with his patients that go through this. =) Things have been a bit hectic here, but I wanted to let you know, that you and your husband have been a great inspiration and encouragement to me and I am thankful for your friendship. I look forward to meeting y'all one day and celebrating our victories. I hope all is going well for you both. I will talk to you soon. Sincerely, Angi. PS~ If y'all get together on June 28th.... please feel free to tell everyone I hope to join and meet with y'all soon. =)

Hello ladybug, Welcome! I am creeping closer to the end of my 3 month waiting period.... I can relate to what you shared, Though I am 41, I have had many health issues going on.... I met with the psychologist, and all went well... (I am sure yours will too) I just had my cardiology clearance a few weeks ago, and my pulmonary clearance just this last week. I have my pre-op class this coming Friday (27th) and then the paperwork etc continues forward. I can understand with deciding surgery is best for you. In the beginning, I was back and forth on it too. For me, the though of some of the additional risks, along with knowing it would involve my intestines..... that was mainly what stopped me from that path. I tend to worry and I truly felt more panicked about the bypass and a lot more peaceful about the sleeve. (just a note: I am not intending that to be a negative against the bypass procedure or anyone who has had the bypass... I am just saying why it was not the choice for me) I would suggest to take your time and continue to research about the bypass and the sleeve... really think all things through, you will find deep down which one is best for you... which one gives you more peace.... Please feel free to add me as a friend on here and to keep in contact. I try to check my messages as often as I can. Hope you have a great day... I look forward to talking more... good days are ahead of us... =)

Thanks for the kind words and encouragement. I cannot believe how fast seems to be going now. I just completed my final required class this passed Friday. I have my pre-op class this coming Friday then the paperwork starts getting processed etc. I am excited, but find myself still battling thoughts... one fear I have is, "what if I don't lose the amount of weight I need to?" I don't know if that happens much, but it truly scares me.... I want to have full success and to get to where I truly need to be for my weight/health. Has anyone else battled this thought?? I know everyone is different, (as every body is different) I tried to look up some info and had to stop myself because I was seeing more negatives come up rather than positives. Many were saying not to expect a great amount of weight loss... which scares me a bit, I know I need to lose over 100 lbs, but I don't see many posts with those results... (not sure of members here, I didn't want to pry into their personal stuff) Anyway, I am still going forward and truly praying to have the results needed to regain my health. (sorry if I babbled, I truly wanted this to be a Thank You message to all who replied and shared their thoughts and heart) Sincerely, Angi

Thank you so much for your helpful reply.... I am glad to know that despite different things of 'normal life' (sneezing, etc.) though as painful as they may be, they don't seem to be a problem for the surgery site... That was my main worry, hearing that vomiting, etc could cause a rip... I really look forward to getting back into life itself, as I have been fighting various things for so long... I hope to lose all that I need/want to.

I sure can relate..... deep down I know this is the right choice but it sure is frightening... If you ever need to talk of vent, please feel free... I know that seems to help me...

Hello. I am now inching my way toward the sleeve surgery (which is not set yet, but expected to be in July). I just had my cardiac appt. to get the official clearance, which i knew would not be an issues as my ekg's and stress test history is normal.... I have my pulmonology clearance coming up in June... then my final pre-op class 6/27/14. I am still excited, but starting to get a bit nervous too... I have been having a bit of gastritis going on, (as a lot of times it gets triggered with stresses etc) and well that is one fear that is gnawing at me. I try to not read up on too much before the surgery, but one thing that has me scared is I have heard a lot of extreme postings on how dry heaving or vomiting episodes can be a major problem to the surgery site.... some have even strongly warned that it can rip or pop the staple site... has anyone heard this? that truly scares me, especially due to the fact that there are episodes that with my gastritis, it has caused me to get queesy enough to dry heave, etc.... I don't want to be in fear of it causing a rip after surgery... I am trying so hard not to over analyze but I also want to be prepared.... I am guessing fears are normal, especially when you get closer to the surgery date... but I feel a bit like a basket case...lol. There are so many thoughts going through my mind, I want to be realistic in my thoughts and expectations without being in total fear....does that make any sense??...lol... I have been counting down to this surgery (and still am counting down) but I am also feeling really scared. Any helpful insights would be appreciated...... Sincerely, Angi

Hello Linda, I cannot begin to express just how much this email encouraged me! This helped me so very much. As I previously mentioned I have been excited and counting down to my surgery, which hopefully will be in July *depending on how fast the insurance stuff goes through*. The recent bump in the road was my recent findings regarding my type 2 diabetes also having traits of type 1... that truly got me fearing that it may interfere.... Hearing your story truly helped, I have many different health issues along with diabetes.... I am currently on 55units of long acting insulin twice a day, and my meal-time insulin is 30-35 units, with also using the sliding scale if/as needed. I have been on and off of metformin... *recently weened off of it as I have been having a lot of stomach issues and various doctor appointments that it would effect (by creating difficulty) Now on tuesday, I will be at st.vincents riverside for the removal of the left lobe of my thyroid as it is enlarged and concerning, so I have kept off the metformin for that too. I am so happy to hear your and your husband's progress on your journey and I truly look forward to my days ahead.... I am truly doing this for my health, as I know that if I did not make this decision my health and life would suffer severely. Hope you have a great week. I will talk to you soon. Sincerely, Angi

Linda, Hello... I was browsing around and was so glad to see this post. I am not sure if I mentioned this before (when we have talked) I am a diabetic on insulin. In November 2012, I had been rushed to the hospital for DKA and was in diabetic shock... I was literally out of it for 3 days *which i am still unable to recall*. Doctors told my husband at that time that my sugars were so high they were literally off the charts and I was lucky to be alive. When the #s finally started to register it was 815. Long story short, I truly thank God I am here. Anyway, the reason I told that is to lead to the following. With that episode happening, my previous endocrinologist thought perhaps I was type 1 diabetic, (instead of type 2,as previously diagnosed in 2003) they ran the specific tests and I was told that I was not type 1, but definitely type 2. Time went on and I am no longer seeing that doctor and now have a new endocrinologist.... and well seeing my history on record and blood sugar issues, he also wanted to test me to see if I was type 1. Longer story short, at my last visit I was told that the blood tests confirm that I am type 2 but I also have traits of type 1 diabetes... which makes my case of diabetes different.... He further told me to inform Dr. Uchal that more than likely i have impairment going on with my pancreas (which of course is nothing new as diabetes effects the pancreas) but he then told me that with my upcoming bariatric surgery, not to expect to be off of my insulin completely... (which didn't shock me, as I know how the slightest intake can make my sugar go up). I say that full, long story for this reason... in finding out the recent info, I started to worry about the "what if's" again... thinking what if this surgery will not work because I am remaining on insulin (as insulin can cause weight gain). It truly started to upset me so much to where it prompted me to search for info on this site... (that is how I found the above post and your reply) May I ask, "has the insulin hindered any of your husband's progress/weight loss?" I am trying not to worry but I want to be prepared. I told my husband my fear would be that I do the surgery and that the insulin sabotaging my results, especially since I have a lot of weight to lose.... (my apologies for the lengthy story...lol... but any reply would be helpful..) Sincerely, Angi

I just had to say "Thank you" for posting this topic and for all of the great replies. I have not had my surgery yet, it should be in July/August (depending on when insurance approval comes in). Anyway, I have been trying to prepare myself the best I can, though I know you can only do so much before actually going through the experience itself... and I have had some thoughts on trying to prepare to do without particular foods etc.... I am making sure I stay realistic in my thoughts, but I am encouraged in seeing how cravings seem to go or change... bottom line is I know I am choosing the surgery to gain better health and quality of life so I know that is what I will think of in times of difficulties (such as craving things I cannot have) but it helps seeing the experiences of others knowing that things may not go as I think they will go... (ie. having difficulty letting certain foods or drinks go). Hope I am making sense... lol (it is 1am here..lol)

Wow! I am so glad this was posted. I am still in my 3-month pre-op phase, but am trying to prepare myself as much as I can. I have considered diet pepsi.... my go to (as opposed to coffee) but also have heard that once I am sleeved carbonated beverages are not good, as they can cause stretching. I know in the long run, though it may or may not be easy, it is worth doing in light of what I will be gaining (my health), but reading this post and the many replies, truly has helped. Thanks.

Hi. I was sleeved almost 6 months ago and I too was totally addicted to diet pepsi. I was told no carbonation ever. It's really not that difficult. I honestly don't even miss it. Everything changes post op after a while and things you thought you couldn't live without become no big deal, just a distant memory. Good luck Thanks for sharing this post. I can relate to the pepsi addiction... I have been a bit worried on how I will do without it, *though I know in the bigger picture of things for my health I know it will be worth it* This post encouraged me.I look forward to my change too, though surgery is not until the summer...

Hello. Thanks for sharing this, I am encouraged with hearing about your diabetes reversal. I have many health issues and diabetes has been one of the major ones. I am on a lot of insulin, BP meds among other meds. I truly look forward to the turn around in my health and being able to truly live better than I have been able to.... and yes, God is Good! =)

I truly do love our surgeon. I was referred to him by a few of my doctors, but also when I was researching info online, I watched the videos posted with him on the local news (watched each one too) I was encouraged and truly felt his integrity and caring showed through. He really seems genuine in his care for people in general as well how he cares about his patients. I will be having my surgery at Riverside (as I live on the westside and that is closer). I am so excited and am counting down. Please, let's keep in touch, (if that is ok with you). This site is awesome with they way we can all connect, but it is especially great when you find someone who is a 'neighbor' (local buddy, so to speak) I look forward to hearing your about your journey too. =) Sincerely, Angela (aka Angi)

Wow! I can really relate to what you shared. I have truly been going through those thought too. So glad to see this post, and also encouraged because I have the same surgeon (who I think is awesome). I know I need to do this for my health, that is the main reason that I was able to say yes to this, without some of the struggle of "do I have to do this". Plus I had 3 of my doctors who kept asking me if I had considered surgery for health reasons. I am glad I made this decision. Now I just try to work through the nervousness etc. =)

Congratulations on your new start! Thank you for what you shared, I am going to remember the helpful tip about brushing your teeth in moments of when you feel you may cheat. You are so right nothing tastes good after a minty fresh mouth. Also, I can relate to what you shared about this being worth it to keep on pressing forward. I have many health issues that truly are a battle, I look forward to gaining better health and having a better quality of life... (as my current conditions are hindering all of that) I look forward to a new beginning for me.

Hello Everyone, I am in my 3-month pre-op phase (as required by my insurance). I have not received an exact surgery date yet, we are guessing in July (*or August, depending on how long it takes for the insurance approval process). I can relate to what has been shared. I am very excited and looking forward to my surgery date, but I am also fighting the 'nagging negative thoughts of what ifs..." I do think that is normal, but also frustrating. I am thankful I saw this post, (please don't misunderstand me, I am not happy about others going through struggles or sadness etc.) It truly shows how we are not the only ones going through these thoughts etc. (though sometimes we feel that way) Though I am not as close to my surgery date (yet) I have been battling many thoughts and fears.,,, lately it has been the "what if this does not work" *as crazy as it sounds, that truly has been in my mind. It is good to try to remember that, as with many things, this is a process and it is going to take effort to combat the negatives that come to mind (all the 'what ifs, as well as trying to keep from thinking of "the fears of complications or failure") It is also good to remember and know that we have the support of others who have been or are going through this same process. This is truly helpful the community, support and encouragement. II am still new here, but please feel free to call on me as a "buddy' (so to speak) on the same journey. Hope I haven't rambled too much.... lol... Sincerely, Angi

Hi Linda, Thanks for the welcome. So far I went to the seminar on 3/11/14. Then I just had my meeting with the patient advocate 3/17/14. I have my first meeting with Dr. Uchal on 3/27/14. My choice is for the sleeve. I am excited and a little nervous too. So far it looks like my surgery might be in July. I would love to keep in touch, if that is ok. I am trying to find people to talk with that understand. Right now the support of 4 of my doctors, and my husband is supportive. Others that I have tried to talk to about this and why I am choosing this, well, they care and are not really in agreement or support of this choice.... plus they start to plant 'doubts' in my head... to make me feel like I will not be disciplined enough etc. I know they mean well, but it really starts to hurt. I know my parents would have been supportive, but sadly my mom passed away 14 years ago,and my dad passed away Sept.2013. Anyway, I thank you for your reply. Hope I didn't say too much...lol Sincerely, Angi Tomorrow I am headed out of town for a week. I am going to friend you and send you a personal message. Advice to you: My husband and I told no one of the surgery except daughter, nurse and cousin who had WLS. The more people you tell, the more chatter you will get. Seems like you are talking to a lot of people and see it already. Spend your time on here talking to the experts who have had the sleeve and know what it is about. Have your husband read with you. I feel like a million dollars 4 months post op, and Dr. Uchal and his staff has us from hello. We went to seminars for 10 years.....so we researched well before we did the sleeve. Would love to guide you Angi, as it was scary for us also. We had a lot of health issues. Linda Hello again. I agree with you. The first time I considered surgery, I talked to quite a bit of people that i knew... looking back I know it was because I was not quite ready and sure in my decision. This time, I knew deep down I am ready, it is for the right reasons... so I have told very few. The hard part is a 2 of the few are not happy with me and my choice, and they seem to be freezing me out... but I just have to move forward... I look forward to days ahead and I would love your guidance and friendship... I appreciate that very much. I look forward to having a better quality of life... Talk to you soon...

Good to meet you and congratulations on your surgery!. I am not able to make it to the fashion show. I am glad to meet other patient's of Dr. Uchal. =)