ladykatie_

Will they ever create a Tucson chapter?

From watching My 600-lb. Life, I think he is trying to see if you are committed to losing weight and changing your lifestyle. I think he will really be able to help you and then you will be able to move on!

Hello from sunny and dry Arizona!
I honestly wish I read more people's hospital experiences before I had my surgery. It would have prepared me better mentally and physically. I had my surgery exactly a week ago and honestly had no idea what to expect either. I've never had ANY major surgery before this one. Here's my experience:
I went to the hospital with my hubby in the morning and checked in. Thankfully they didn't make me wait long in the waiting room for the "pre-op" room (for lack of a better term). In that room is where they do final checks of everything to make sure you are all ready to go. So you change into your surgery gear (nothing but a paper gown and hospital socks) and they start taking your blood. Anywhere from 2-12 vials depending on what they need. They wanted me to do a quick EKG (I hadn't had one because my doc didn't think I needed it) and of course, my heart was fine. I also had to do a urine test to make sure I wasn't pregnant (rolls eyes). After tests and all that, they get your IV need stuck in your hand. To me, it was painful but I have a pretty low tolerance for pain. Sometimes they'll start your IV right then or wait until right before they take you into the surgery room. Next, you meet with the anesthesiologist, who checks you out and makes sure you are A-OK.
All the while they are doing this, the hospital nurses usually are confirming your info like name, date of birth, address, etc.
So depending on when you got in the room and when your surgery is, you may have a little waiting time. I brought my phone to play some games and talked with the hub. Just keep calm is my policy.
The time comes to take you to the surgery room and the anesthesiologist gives you "something to calm down." Not the actual anesthesia that will put you out, usually. Then they got me into the surgery room and it's just like you'd imagine: a bunch of nurses and staff milling around, big scary machines and a table just for you, all in white. (This is when I got really nervous). They moved me onto the table and the nurse was strapping my arms down with some velcro straps "just in case." Before I knew it I was OUT cold. The anesthesiologist didn't say a word, didn't make me countdown, nothing. I was just talking to the nice nurse then out.
Next thing I know, I'm becoming conscious in a different place on a hospital bed. I was so nauseous I thought I was going to throw up and I kept repeating that. I was in A LOT of pain, I won't lie. I don't really remember being wheeled around into my room or anything, so I think I passed out again either from left-over anesthesia or the pain. My hubby said I was moaning and groaning and he hated that he couldn't do anything to help (poor guy).
Then in the hospital room, I am conscious and the nurse is making sure I have everything I need: full IV, pain meds and my little button I can push for pain. I'm still really out of it but it's still very painful. No one really warned me about the pain in your belly but man it hurts!! Again, my pain tolerance is pretty low.
I don't remember the catheter being put in or even how it felt until many hours later. Felt like I had to pee constantly, but you have other problems to worry about so you kind of just forget it about it.
Then people start visiting and it's all kind of a blur. Everyone said I had a permanent frown on my face and my eyes were slits. I hardly remember it and I think that's a good thing because I was in so much pain. I don't remember the drain at all, or if I even had one to be honest. My hubby doesn't know either, he was mostly concerned about me.
The next day I just wanted the IV out of my hand because it hurt. They discharged me with liquid pain meds, Lovenox injections (to prevent blood clots) and omeprazole to take one week after the surgery. I was in lots of pain but I definitely wanted to go home. Hospital stay was about 36 hours or so. Not a full two days.
I know it seems like a lot but I'm positive that you will go in better off having read at least one experience. Everyone is different. Everyone's doctor is different. Just keep that in mind and make sure you have your support group. OH and remember to be patient with your body!!

My surgeon recommended RNY because of my sweet tooth. I know the "rearranging" of the insides sounds scary but this is the surgery that is the "gold standard" and it's been around a really long time.
In my honest opinion, it was the best choice for me. I no longer crave sweets (or anything, really) and I've lost 40 lbs at about 9 weeks out, without any exercise (I had trouble with dehydration and Protein intake, but now I'm good and exercising!).
My mom had the sleeve 3 years ago and she's lost over 100 lbs and kept it off. The only problem is, she fell into the habit of drinking soda and can't seem to get rid of her little belly in the middle. Granted, she's not one for much exercise (1-2 times a week) and again, with the soda and some bad eating habits. The sleeve is a newer surgery so not a TON of research has been done yet, as opposed to RNY. I'm not sure if it's easier to fall back into bad habits with the sleeve, but that's just my personal experience. I don't want my stomach to stretch at all. I wanna eat like a bird for the rest of my life! Lol.
But I digress. As everyone has said, talk to your surgeon and see what he/she says. Also, it helps if the specific surgery is covered by your insurance.

You are doing fantastic! Keep up the good work. You can't change overnight - take one day at a time and set realistic goals. You will get there! Rock on!!
Carol

Will they ever create a Tucson chapter?

It. Helps. So. Much. I basically slept surrounded by pillows actually. Once I figured that out, I could sleep.< /p>

Good question, I just eat whenever. Early, late, as long as I'm getting Protein and fluids right?!

I was sleeved at 10 am today. I've been on morphine and anti nausea meds throughout the day. I'm mostly just sore at this point. I've been walking around in the hospital and have no problems with it. The worst part was obviously in recovery. My gas pain has been minimal I'm guessing due to my walking.
Congrats to my other July 14th sleevers! Make sure to get some walking in there!

I took a bit of a break from the forums because I was obsessing a bit. Went out of town (so soon after surgery?!) and that was craziness. It wasn't fun at all... but it wasn't horrible? Anyways... I know how it feels to be bulimic because as I slowly introduce "real" food, I eat too fast or too much, and the food hangs out in my throat... so I throw up the excess. This happens A LOT unfortunately. I am trying to be careful! What can ya do... just suffer through it.
On the positive end of things, I have found several ways to get Protein in each day and I'm lovin' it. My doctor was very disappointed when I went in (July 10) and I told him I wasn't getting enough Protein in (20g-30g) per day. So he made some suggestions, etc. I also saw the psychologist the same day. That helped immensely to regain focus and be more positive. Follow up appointments have been scheduled with both, as well as a NUT, which I have yet to see.
SOOOOOOOOOOOO I tried Syntrax nectar Lemon Tea flavor Protein powder. SO GOOD. Tastes like an Arnold Palmer. Here's my little process: Mix the Protein Powder with purified Water (room temp), pour over ice and squeeze a fresh lemon into it and voila... Arnold Palmer. I love it because I'm getting 23g of protein AND roughly 12oz of Water. Bonus!
My mom also showed me this awesome smoothie recipe (she had the sleeve 3 years back and she's just getting back on track). It's super easy but this early on, I can drink about a quarter of a smoothie. The other problem with smoothies is that they melt and refrigerating/freezing them doesn't work so well. HOWEVER, if I drink as much smoothie as I can, take a break, then get back on it, I am able to get 25g of protein within a few hours. I will take it! Some days it doesn't work with the schedule but that's why I have my protein Arnold Palmer that I can take anywhere.
Speaking of, I am investing in a BUNCH of these travel cups with straws (I know, straws are supposed to bad) and they work extremely well on the go. I can drink my protein or eat my smoothie on the go and it is very, very helpful.
Needless to say, I am OVER pre-made, "milky" Protein shakes for the moment. Not to say I will never have them again but for now, they are on my "DO NOT CONSUME" list, along with a few other things that my pouch isn't ready for.
In conclusion: I am about 8 weeks out from surgery, I've lost about 37lb so far, I am getting 60g or more of protein in per day and my next step is getting 30 minutes of cardio in. Also, I've come to the realization that I don't need to be so down on myself for failing or not doing what I'm supposed to, as long as there is an effort put in every day. Mentally and emotionally, it is difficult but now I am on the up and up of my process and I am happy that I finally have a good grasp on my lifestyle. BABY STEPS!

8-16 oz low cal almond vanilla milk (or use 8oz low cal almond milk with 8 oz water...for thinner shakes)
1 scoop sugar free protien powder (vanilla)
1 Tbsp PB2
1/4 cup blueberries
1/4 packet sugar free white chocolate pudding mix
1/2 frozen banana
Hand full of ice
Add all to blender....blend for 40 seconds or so...enjoy!
Flavor reminds me of muffin batter

There is a section in the forum for Surgeons and Hospitals. I think you should post in there and see what anyone says!

Hello from sunny and dry Arizona!
The community here is wonderful and I've literally just joined. I had my surgery exactly a week ago and honestly had no idea what to expect either. I've never had ANY major surgery before this one. Here's my experience:
I went to the hospital with my hubby in the morning and checked in. Thankfully they didn't make me wait long in the waiting room for the "pre-op" room (for lack of a better term). In that room is where they do final checks of everything to make sure you are all ready to go. So you change into your surgery gear (nothing but a paper gown and hospital socks) and they start taking your blood. Anywhere from 2-12 vials depending on what they need. They wanted me to do a quick EKG (I hadn't had one because my doc didn't think I needed it) and of course, my heart was fine. I also had to do a urine test to make sure I wasn't pregnant (rolls eyes). After tests and all that, they get your IV need stuck in your hand. To me, it was painful but I have a pretty low tolerance for pain. Sometimes they'll start your IV right then or wait until right before they take you into the surgery room. Next, you meet with the anesthesiologist, who checks you out and makes sure you are A-OK.
All the while they are doing this, the hospital nurses usually are confirming your info like name, date of birth, address, etc.
So depending on when you got in the room and when your surgery is, you may have a little waiting time. I brought my phone to play some games and talked with the hub. Just keep calm is my policy.
The time comes to take you to the surgery room and the anesthesiologist gives you "something to calm down." Not the actual anesthesia that will put you out, usually. Then they got me into the surgery room and it's just like you'd imagine: a bunch of nurses and staff milling around, big scary machines and a table just for you, all in white. (This is when I got really nervous). They moved me onto the table and the nurse was strapping my arms down with some velcro straps "just in case." Before I knew it I was OUT cold. The anesthesiologist didn't say a word, didn't make me countdown, nothing. I was just talking to the nice nurse then out.
Next thing I know, I'm becoming conscious in a different place on a hospital bed. I was so nauseous I thought I was going to throw up and I kept repeating that. I was in A LOT of pain, I won't lie. I don't really remember being wheeled around into my room or anything, so I think I passed out again either from left-over anesthesia or the pain. My hubby said I was moaning and groaning and he hated that he couldn't do anything to help (poor guy).
Then in the hospital room, I am conscious and the nurse is making sure I have everything I need: full IV, pain meds and my little button I can push for pain. I'm still really out of it but it's still very painful. No one really warned me about the pain in your belly but man it hurts!! Again, my pain tolerance is pretty low.
I don't remember the catheter being put in or even how it felt until many hours later. Felt like I had to pee constantly, but you have other problems to worry about so you kind of just forget it about it.
Then people start visiting and it's all kind of a blur. Everyone said I had a permanent frown on my face and my eyes were slits. I hardly remember it and I think that's a good thing because I was in so much pain. I don't remember the drain at all, or if I even had one to be honest. My hubby doesn't know either, he was mostly concerned about me.
The next day I just wanted the IV out of my hand because it hurt. They discharged me with liquid pain meds, Lovenox injections (to prevent blood clots) and omeprazole to take one week after the surgery. I was in lots of pain but I definitely wanted to go home. Hospital stay was about 36 hours or so. Not a full two days.
I'm sorry it was so long but honestly, I wish I had read more hospital experiences before I got mine done! I am one week post-op, feeling much better except for some belly pain where the "wounds" are. I see my doc tomorrow and start full liquids today.
Let me know how everything goes for you! I hope this helps!

I've always thought, I am a skinny girl on the inside! I like to go out, see people, do things. I know if I wasn't overweight and out-of-shape basically my whole life, I would've been more involved in more physical activities. As a younger girl, I know I would've been more confident. In my post-college life, I am definitely more confident but my physical stature has always limited my activities.
I want to dance, hike, swim, run around on the beach, walk for miles around fun places like Disneyland and Six Flags, go out with friends and not worry about being the fat one of the group.
I think about this often as motivation. By NO means do I want to be "skinny," but healthy. In fact, I'd rather keep my boobs/butt and not be skinny, lol.

@ktucker1979: It's the worst in the summer! I mean, of course, I'll throw up my hair if I'm working out or cleaning, etc. But sometimes I would just be sitting at a friend's house and sweating! But no more! I can't believe the difference 20 lbs. makes.

Thank you!!
I'm growing out my hair right now and I used to have to put it up all the time and now I leave it down! The hubby loves it, of course. I'm just excited not to be a sweaty, fat person anymore, lol.

of the days I can shop in the regular sizes, walk a lot and not get tired, have more energy, be more active, not worry about seat belts not fitting...
I know there's a lot of these kinds of posts but when I'm having a bad day that's full of nausea and I'm feeling like a failure, this is what I think about.
A small NSV for me is since I've lost 22 lbs., whenever I go to the store or go out and about, I don't get SUPER sweaty. I live in AZ so it's in the 100s right now, but I used to sweat for NO reason. Now, I only sweat when I'm in the heat for a prolonged amount of time. I don't sweat when I'm just walking around a store or anything. It's so nice.

@@mtibodo2 - thank you for the suggestions. I recently got an powders?utm_source=BariatricPal&utm_medium=Affiliate&utm_campaign=CommentLink" target="_ad" data-id="1" >unjury sample of their Protein chicken Soup. I'll look up emetrol and check out the Special K as well.

of the days I can shop in the regular sizes, walk a lot and not get tired, have more energy, be more active, not worry about seat belts not fitting...
I know there's a lot of these kinds of posts but when I'm having a bad day that's full of nausea and I'm feeling like a failure, this is what I think about.
A small NSV for me is since I've lost 22 lbs., whenever I go to the store or go out and about, I don't get SUPER sweaty. I live in AZ so it's in the 100s right now, but I used to sweat for NO reason. Now, I only sweat when I'm in the heat for a prolonged amount of time. I don't sweat when I'm just walking around a store or anything. It's so nice.

Doubtful. Insurance companies are picky about the whole "being supervised by a physician" thing, unfortunately

STAY AWAY.
You don't need her negativity in your life. If she wants to obsess over you, let her. It's creepy anyway.
I'll be your friend.

of the days I can shop in the regular sizes, walk a lot and not get tired, have more energy, be more active, not worry about seat belts not fitting...
I know there's a lot of these kinds of posts but when I'm having a bad day that's full of nausea and I'm feeling like a failure, this is what I think about.
A small NSV for me is since I've lost 22 lbs., whenever I go to the store or go out and about, I don't get SUPER sweaty. I live in AZ so it's in the 100s right now, but I used to sweat for NO reason. Now, I only sweat when I'm in the heat for a prolonged amount of time. I don't sweat when I'm just walking around a store or anything. It's so nice.

STAY AWAY.
You don't need her negativity in your life. If she wants to obsess over you, let her. It's creepy anyway.
I'll be your friend.

This is why I have two goal weights. The first one is my high school weight, 180 lbs, and was a size 11-13 (junior's). My second weight loss goal is 140 lbs. I have no idea what size that would be since I think it was probably elementary/middle school that I was that weight. I remember I got my "curves" in 7th grade and I gained weight, then started high school around 170. 180 was my highest weight though. AND I THOUGHT I WAS SO FAT!!! Granted, everyone I hung out with was tiny.
Anyways, whenever I look at pictures from high school, I say, omg, I'm so skinny! So to me, 180 is skinny. However, I'd definitely like to be in a size 8-10. I'd be beyond happy with that.

Will they ever create a Tucson chapter?