Started my journey almost five years ago. Had some detours and I am finally ready! I have done all of my testing and forms were submitted to insurance on Friday. Getting super excited. Any advice anyone would like to give would be greatly appreciated!

I'm three days post op and the best thing I could tell you for after surgery, besides follow EVERYTHING your doctor says, is have a hot pack and an ice pack readily available. The hot pack to help with the gas/air pain, and the ice pack for the incisions and muscle pain. Remember, they're cutting through muscle to get to your stomach, and you're going to feel like you did 500 sit-ups the day or two post-op. Icing my insicions is just about the only way I'm able to comfortably sleep.

Also, peppermint tea and a small pillow to hold against your tummy.

AS for the now, just relax and try not to worry about your approval process everyday. I literally forced it out of my mind while I was waiting so I did not stress about it.

Thanks for all of the advice. I'm really excited.