microdot

Welcome. I'm sorry you had a rough start, but I am happy that you finally got it all resolved. It is totally normal to be nervous or anxious, but I am sure you will do really well. You have lots of good things to look forward to. There are always going to be people with an opinion or a judgement...you know why you are doing this, and sometimes people can feel threatened by other peoples progress. Just keep moving forward and stay as positive as possible. Best of luck!

Hi Michelle! Welcome! I am pretty new myself, but people have been very kind. I am 14 months post-op, and would be happy to chat or answer any questions you may have.

Congratulations! I was considered a "smaller patient" as well. Keep going, and try to enjoy the ride!

Hello! I am 14 months post-op and currently in maintenance mode. Please feel free to ask questions or just reach out for support. Congrats on getting your surgery date!

Hi Kendra! How is it going for you so far? Have you had your surgery yet?

Dug, Ugh...I did a liquid diet many years ago through UCLA, and do not recommend it either. I am definitely cold more often than I used to be, but it hasn't really been an issue. I always make sure i have a sweater or jacket with me...it's just become part of the adjustment. We have had some very hot days this year already, and I was comfortable, which was a relief. Living in Minnesota will just mean more layers! As for irritability, you may or may not feel it. I don't remember feeling terribly irritable, but I think I was so afraid of food in the beginning, it was far less of an issue than I thought it would be. You will be able to eat great things down the line, and you will find new "comfort food" you didn't even know existed. I am constantly Googling or on Pinterest looking for Bariatric friendly recipes, and I have found some great stuff, which I would be happy to share when you are at that point. I also think I may be more strict with food than most people. I have not had Pasta, rice, pizza, Cookies, anything like that. The only bread I eat is whole wheat pita, and I no longer eat red meat. Again, that is a personal choice. I haven't missed any of these things yet. There are so many alternatives now. I have been really lucky...my husband has never had a weight issue, but decided to eat healthy with me. He's lost 30 pounds (from where I have no idea) and feels better than he ever has. If he wasn't on board with me, it would have been so much harder. You can totally do it Dug! You will be happier and have a much better quality of life. Where are you going to be having your surgery?

Hi! I am in California, but lived in Minnesota for 6 1/2 years, if that helps at all! I am 14 months post-op and in maintenance now, after losing 93 pounds. I would have loved a mentor when I was going through the process, but didn't even know it was an option then. I think where you are now might be the scariest part...am I making the right choice, how will things change, can I really do this. If it helps at all, I would do it all over again if I had to. The first 3 months were the hardest for me, and I would be very happy to help you in anyway I can. I'm pretty darn open, so you can ask me anything!

Terry, I am a California native, and live about 1 1/2 hours from San Diego. It's a great place to visit, with lots of fun things to do. If you get a chance, go across the bridge to Coronado Island, and see the Del Coronado Hotel, which is right on the beach. You can breakfast, lunch, or dinner there as well...it's stunning! Hope you have a great time in our state!

Good for you! Keep it up!

I have heard this phrase a lot, everyone is different. I am 14 months out, and there are things I wasn't able to eat before that I can now. My doctor suggested putting aside the "offensive" food item, and try it again in a few weeks. It could have been the milk or the cereal individually, you just never know. Try it again, in a small amount, in a few weeks.

I am 14 months post and the first 3 were definitely the hardest for me. I wondered if I had made the right decision in those first few months. It's been so worth it! It took me about 3 weeks after surgery to feel better. I walked several times a day, even though it was slow going. Feel free to message me. Best of luck!