The Candidate

Definitely sounds like a good day!

I also have always taken mine whole, usually with water. Mine are white and oval shaped - two a day.

Amazing difference - you look great! Congrats!

One hurdle down on the way to a whole new healthy life! At times it will feel like you're standing still, and surgery day seems like a far away unattainable dream. But I promise it's worth everything you have to go through to get there! Congrats!

Congrats and welcome aboard! This is a very friendly and informative site to learn from as you await your upcoming surgery. Best of luck!

@@jenislosingit I'm sure having to do blood transfusions made it more difficult on you. But hang in there, and after a month or so you'll really start to notice a significant change in how you feel. The energy aspect might take a bit longer, but is perfectly normal. I know it's hard believe, but you're going to reach a point where some days you forget completely that you even had surgery. Stay hydrated, work on Protein, and keep walking! Best wishes!

Congrats on your surgery and happy to hear things are looking up for you. It's only going to get better!

That's a double header congrats! Way to go on both counts!

That's fantastic! Congrats!

@@DivaSoBlessed Good for you! You definitely have the right frame of mind, and I've no doubt you're going to roll a strike with your first attempt. Lovely support system you've set up with your hubby too! Best of wishes!

You've come this far, so I know you've got it in you. You can do this!

Congratulations on receiving your approval!

Congrats on the bikini takeover! You look great!

I had done a lot of research online as to what the requirements entailed, so after verifying that my insurance covered wls, I also made an appointment with my PCP. I had it my head that I would need a formal referral from him to proceed. I went in with talking points firmly outlined in my head, and an unshakable resolve that I wasn't walking out of there without a referral in my hand, come what may. Turns out I didn't even need one. He just gave me a phone number to call, and that started the whole ball rolling. And he couldn't have been more supportive. Seeing as you will be going to your PCP after surgery for any routine or surgery related issues, it's very important that you know where they stand on the subject of wls. Had he not been in my corner, I would have immediately requested another PCP. My life depended on it, as I felt, and still feel, that without the surgery I already had one foot in a premature grave. Don't be afraid to fight for your right to a healthy life!

Congrats on your surgery! It's tough in the beginning, but hang in there because it will start to get better. You deserve this second chance at life and I couldn't be happier for you!

The head hunger and cravings were very intense early out for me too. But I held firm, and at nearly four months out I can tell you that it definitely gets easier. Just try taking it one day at a time. Don't beat yourself up for past transgressions, but work towards getting through one day, then two, then a week without cheating, and so on. The end rewards are so worth the sacrifice. This honeymoon period is when it'll be the easiest to stay strong, the hope being the further out you get the more your body gets used to eating healthy and the easier it will become to fight back against the cravings. You can do this!

There's definitely a difference. Congrats!

Welcome and warm congrats on your upcoming surgery!

Sorry you had a bit of a scare. Hang in there, it gets better day by day. Congrats!

I had one in 2011, but unfortunately was not knocked out for it. I'm in no way squeamish or babyish about medical procedures, but this one was terribly traumatic for me. It was unrelated to weight loss surgery. They gave me a pill that was supposed to calm me, told me it was a simple procedure and I believed them. I was awake, alert, and they were talking to me all through it. I distinctly remember the horrible gagging sensation and feeling like I was going to suffocate. It was awful. When I was going through my pre op requirements I was terrified that I was going to have to get another one. I didn't, but I was heartened to read other people's experiences to learn that nowadays it seems to be the norm that you are completely sedated. If I ever have to go through one again and they attempt it without sedation I will insist upon it.

Change has a way of showcasing hidden insecurities. I agree with the others. Find a way to tactfully confront her about it. Whatever happens it will at least put all your unanswered questions to rest, and you can move forward. Hope it works out well for you!

That is incredible Jasmine! You are definitely an inspiration to me!

I think it's great! Congrats on your weight loss and best wishes for your upcoming surgery. You deserve it!

Congrats! As to your question: Usually being resigned to the loser's bench in sports vernacular carries a derogatory connotation. Meaning you aren't as qualified or proficient as the rest of the team. But being relegated to the loser's bench after weight loss surgery takes on a whole new meaning. You cross over from being a pre op to a post op. It signifies the beginning of a brand new life, as you now begin to "lose" the pounds and work your way towards a happy healthy new life!

Congrats on your weight loss! I'm always the last to see mine, and I think that's pretty common. I've been fat nearly all my life so it can mess with your head as far as body image. But you'll eventually reach a point where it's undeniable!