Namaste6

@runsforcookies I am November 4th, also, but in Hawaii. Since we are all within the same two days, we should all keep in touch about our progress!

Everything I have looked at pretty much goes around with saying, "This is something you and your surgeon should discuss and decide on together" I just don't want to come out of it not really knowing I guess... I am pretty Type A.

The body is amazing. If any of you have had Shapeology pills such as Curb or Burn... it is not a pretty sight for your bowel movements or urine... Of course, I happened to start taking them during my Liver Shrinking Diet, so I wasn't sure which one was the culprit. I thought I was dying. Good news, it helped me lose a lot of weight and not be hungry while I was testing the VSG-portion waters!

I did the same - the poor receptionist memorized my number. They actually gave me a date BEFORE my insurance came back. But I still called to to check up on insurance. My biggest thing I did while waiting (other than calling 24/7) was research. I also had fun tasting different Protein shakes and Clear liquids. I even made different recipes of purees and mashes to see what I liked. Kind of exciting, but sometimes nerve-racking when you realize that you are going to be eating mush for a while... Hang in there! The call will come soon!!!

Ok, so I have researched VSG like crazy, and of course I came across this a while back, but someone told me not to worry about it. Now that I am less than a month away, my head is going crazy trying to stay calm, and someone else asked me if I know what Bougie size I am getting, so naturally I am in a tizzy. Is this something I need to talk to my surgeon about??? I read somewhere that between 32-40 is good. I am assuming my surgeon does this anyway....

@@Runner1 , I hope your surgery went well =]

Yeah - he is very efficient, so I am sure he will do that stuff. I have my pre-op appointment in two weeks. I just really need a note for work, or they won't give me the time off. (They only allow 2 weeks of medical unless it is severe?) so hopefully I am good in 2 weeks, or who knows...

Thank you for the input! I bought Unjury the other day.

@@Runner1 - I have yet to have my surgery =] But I like to be informed!!

My insurance finally came back and approved it! 27 days left!

Good way of thinking!!!

(And just so you know, Old Navy is having a sale up to 60% off for Fall wear!)

What shakes or clear liquids do you all like? I have found a few now.

Did you guys have trouble with hot or cold food?

This year at Thanksgiving, I can be thankful for the surgery! That's good enough of a day for me! =P

I am scheduled for November 4th. Your pre-op diet is what I am doing, but for a full two weeks. It is so crazy how different they all are. I am just hoping to get used to smaller portions.

Couldn't have put it better!

Also, Old Navy also has cute clothes and literally always has discounts. I get stuff there because it is cheap, so I won't have to care about losing weight and not wearing them again.

My surgeon said I would be on Purred food by then, so I can have a little bit of gravy and mashed green Beans. My mom is purposely making me some broth with shredded turkey. I'm nervous because it is going to be the first time having a meal with people other than family (my parents are big on not letting others be alone on holidays, so they invited neighbors and people from work).

Are there any gels or creams surgeons recommend to decrease scarring?

Thanks again for all of these amazing examples. I am 27 days away now! Couldn't be more excited

I use LostIt. It has a large food database, and you can scan barcodes (even generic brands) or make your own recipes and food items - it counts your carbs, fat, and Protein intake as well as your exercise. It also allows you to decrease your calorie intake to your desired amount without the app telling you that you are crazy hahaha. You can also connect it to your FitBit, digital scales (Aria, WiThings, etc.), MyFitnessPal, MapMyRun, and much more. You don't have to have the Premium for the basics such as exercise and food diary. The Premium is $29.99 a year and it is well worth it. It has really helped me.

Hey all! I was looking for some people to befriend on some weightloss/exercise apps. I use FitBit as well as LoseIt, and I would love the extra motivation if having friends on there. My e-mail address used for both of them is in the attachment, so it doesn't pop up in searches =P

@@Jangy03253 I wish you the best of luck. In my opinion, the surgery is a positive thing in your life right now, do not let the negativity of your husbands family ruin you. You deserve to be happy, healthy, and in a good place. You have a great support system here, and it is quite brave and a good step for you to voice your thoughts to us all. In the meantime, try to imagine your life post-op and how much stronger you will be. You deserve the best! Stay strong!

Thank you everyone for your suggestions. It is very helpful!