Inner Surfer Girl

Yes, I was prescribed this.

I am an unsweetened tea drinker so I just had to wean myself off of caffeine. Green tea has less caffeine than black tea. You can gradually reduce the amount of caffeine you drink by substituting some of your drinks with lower caffeine and decaffinated choices. If you do it gradually you will survive.

I've weened myself off of diet soda and feel a lot better. I really think it has made a difference with the water retention and it also saves money (water and tea are so much more inexpensive!).

The only final decision you have to make right now is whether to attend the seminar. I reommend you attend with an open mind and see how it goes.

Since you are on a budget consider carnation instant breakfast (no sugar added). Its on my surgeons approved list. I haven't compared prices but it should at least be readily available and relatively inexpensive.

According to my surgeon the biggest risks are blood clots and pneumonia. If you follow your drs instructions then your risks are decreased.

Grove Park Inn is on my dream getaway list --- but, its not inexpensive.

Even if he loses his job you should still be covered under Cobra. I would start asking questions of the insurance companies now just to make sure how to keep uninterupted coverage in case of any contingency. Yet another example of why we need single payer and to get employers out of the health insurance business.

I would start by attending a seminar and doing a lot of research (read through all of these forums). Take lots of notes and ask lots of questions. Best of luck.

Just to add a point to what everyone else has posted, any life change (good or bad) is a major source of stress.

I have a million: from scratching my ankles and painting my own toenails to walking on the beach to getting a great job. Most of mine are pretty basic.

I have always been a fast eater. As I am preop I have been practicing slowing down and chewing my food. The upside to chewing thoroughly -- I actually get to enjoy the flavor of my food longer. Who knew?

I use my phone app so when replying just type my response in the reply box. You can subscribe to threads, like posts, quote responses, send messages, etc. Just get in here and play!

My GP recommended my surgeon.

I know I have a higher tequirement due to a higher weight. Maybe your NUT has lowered your goal due to your weight loss. This is just a guess.

I am. I am still pre-op and beginning my journey so have no post-op experience to share.

Here is a good general overview of Vocational Rehabilitation programs. http://www.communityinclusion.org/article.php?article_id=129

I am unemployed. I don't know what the employment requirements are. You can call your states office or check their website to see if you might be eligible for services. It has taken me about 9+ months from the first phone call.

Vocational Rehabilitation is a state agency that helps the disabled find work. Check with your voc rehab office and see what services they offer and if you qualify for assistance. I am sure it varies by state.

Years ago I went to Hawaii after losing a bunch of weight. I took a huge suitcase. What did I wear? A beach cover up, a bathing suit and sandles that I bought there. I think I only wore one outfit I brought from home after I arrived. As someone who can no longer buy off the rack I would suggest you take your current bathing suit and one a size or two smaller and a couple of cover-up/dresses. I find that dresses are more forgiving over a range of sizes. Have a great time!

I like the orange.

I've sent you a message with some details.

I have a 24 oz Thermos Intak Hydration Bottle (noninsulated) that I really like.

I am a fan of using all the resources available to me. It never hurts to get help from professionals (therapy, counseling) and amateurs (support groups, peer groups). Self help (reading, watching videos, workbooks, etc) can only go so far. It often helps to get anorher perspective and talk to someone who understands what you are going through and trying to accomplish. if you feel stuck or would like some help why not give counseling or therapy a try and see how it goes?

You don't sound nuts at all!