Ms. Brightside

I scored two of these super-cute, super-comfy caftans at a store called Dirt Cheap (closeout store) for $7 each. The material is soft and lightweight and the sleeves are kimono-style, so plenty of room for IVs, etc. Also, I'm 5'6" and it hits just below my knee. The brand name is Hue (available at Macy's), if anyone wants to search for something similar. I do plan on taking a lightweight robe to drape over my shoulders while walking the halls of the hospital. Sent from my SM-G930P using BariatricPal mobile app

What is orange blossom water? Sounds lovely! Sent from my SM-G930P using BariatricPal mobile app

Ugh. So sorry they are treating you this way! If at all possible, I'd seriously consider changing to a different surgeon. If they are treating you this way NOW, I cannot imagine how they will treat you post-op. [emoji19] Sent from my SM-G930P using BariatricPal mobile app

Do you mind me asking how your cup size changed? Sent from my SM-G930P using BariatricPal mobile app

Thank you both & I hope for the same! I was somewhat joking. Any excuse to buy a book is a good excuse for me. Especially when they are 5 for $1. I do plan to use this reading material primarily while on the treadmill or stationary bike, though.

That is so surprising about ginger! Definitely something I was planning on having on-hand post-op. Hopefully your tastebuds will come back around to it in a few months. Sorry to hear about your migranes. I'm the same with fake sugars and non-natural cleaning products. They're the worst! For nausea, have you tried Psibands? I picked up a pair on clearance at Target and hoping they will be helpful for me. Also, I remember from my cruise that green apples (???) are supposedly great at helping with sea sickness/nausea. Maybe you can find (or make) green applesauce and give that a go. Hope you are feeling better each day!

Call, call, call and escalate, escalate, escalate, until you have answers. This just doesn't make a whole lot of sense. So sorry you are dealing with this!

When I ran in the past, I highly preferred the Camelbak backpacks with the built-in bladder. So much easier than trying to fumble with attaching bottles to belts. https://www.google.com/search?q=CAMELBACK+HYDRATION+PACK&oq=CAMELBACK+HYDRATION+PACK&aqs=chrome..69i57.4391j0j1&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8#q=CAMELBAk+hydrobak&tbm=shop

That is insane! If it was a requirement by your insurance company, those costs should have at least been applied towards your deductible and/or your annual out-of-pocket limit. It is commonplace for service providers to collect up front any outstanding deductible amount due prior to scheduling a procedure, as long as it is not an emergency. I have a $1500 annual deductible and will have to pay any outstanding balance on that deductible before my surgery will be scheduled. After the procedure, I will be billed for the co-insurance amount (I am responsible for 20% of all charges up to my annual out-of-pocket limit). Yay, insurance!

I have an American friend who was forced to update her documents due to dramatic weight loss. It really makes sense, if you think about it. If you no longer appear to be the person in the photo, how are those who are in charge of checking these documents able to accurately verify your identity?

Take protein powder & a couple of blender bottles with you to supplement if/when need be. Most (all?) cruise ships have a walking track on the top deck for exercise. Some (all?) have a gym, as well, but there may be an extra charge to use those facilities. Call ahead and let them know of your dietary preferences/restrictions. I did that when I cruised on Carnival several years go (for a different reason) and they customized a meal for me each night in the dining room. I was able to find what I needed in the dining room and/or buffets for breakfast and lunch each day. Have fun!

This is why it's always a good idea to update your drivers license, passport, etc., after dramatic weight loss!

Do you have a deductible you must meet? If so, perhaps your insurance company will apply the cost of the group session to your deductible, since it is a requirement for surgery. It doesn't hurt to ask!

Lots of luck headed your way! I'm also waiting and hoping to hear something by Friday!

I plan to ask my surgeon about this. I think it would help just to hold everything in place. The less movement, the less pain. I remember this after my gallbladder surgery.

I haven't yet tried that brand, but would love your review! Whole Foods & Sprouts offer a money-back guarantee on opened product, as long as you have your receipt. Not sure where this brand is sold, though. I have tried and enjoyed Orgain Organic Protein Powder. The plant-based version seems to be free of dairy, soy, and gluten! http://orgain.com/products/organic-protein-powder/ Costco also offers a money-back guarantee on opened product and Orgain is carried at my local Costco.

So sorry to hear. The senior center in my town offers free rides. Is that an option for you? Also, your church may be able to help or refer you to someone who could. *hugs*

Such great progress! Congrats!

Best wishes for a speedy recovery!

Amazing! Thanks so much for the update! I'm anxiously awaiting my surgery date! Hope your hip is on the mend soon! You have had amazing results thus far. I'm sure once you are able to move around more, they will be even better.

Just wondering if anyone has been sleeved by Dr. Kilgore and what your experience was with her & this clinic. Thank you! Sent from my SM-T350 using the BariatricPal App

Hey, there! So, I've decided to go with Dr. Cribbins and am awaiting insurance approval (hopeful to hear something this week). We are shooting for a late May surgery date. Do you mind me asking how you are doing now?

Wishing you a speedy recovery!

With my surgeon's guidance, I chose the sleeve. Less invasive, no concerns with malabsorption of vitamins and nutrients, and less downtime with practically the same results (or possibly even the same results in many cases). It just made sense for me, personally.

Fantastic! You are such an inspiration!!