I think I am hesitating bc after I make that appt, I will most likely get my surgery date. Which is what I want of course, but I still have a fear of failing.

I mean, what if I go through ALL of this and still fail. Just like all the other times? On the other hand, I want more than anything to succeed, ya know?

You'll be tired for a few weeks and might need some assistance in getting through schoolruns/mealtimes/bedtimes - but this is totally do-able.

Go get 'em, tiger

Like Madam Reverie said. "They are instructed to touch raw nerves". It was almost like they were trying to break me down a little bit during my visit. Hopefully you can now get some rest and decompress a bit. You are now one step closer in the journey.

I'm looking forward to the stage that LilBootch is talking about. Preparing for surgery I still get to eat some of this I won't be able to in a couple weeks. That last week before surgery will mostly be liquids. Then I'm pretty much on protein drinks a day (with sugar-&free Popsicles for variety) for day 1 after surgery to day 14. From the 15-30th I understand I'll be able to eat soft foods and expand the variety a little. I'll be looking for some 'step it up a notch' ideas from my nutritionalist to take away some boredom of the same two flavored of protein drinks. Anything you 'lomg-termers' have picked up will help us newbies through the first couple weeks.

<br>

NapaPaul -- I'm not a long-termer (surgery later today -- eek!), but I do know a way to mix up those two flavors of shakes. I've been using the Syntrax Nectar unflavored protein powder in all kinds of things. It mixes thinly, and it is indistinguishable in most things. I don't love it in cottage cheese, but I do love it in cream soups and purees. I also mix it in my shaker bottle with 16 oz water and a Crystal Lite package. Lots of variety to be had.

<br><br>

NapaPaul -- I'm not a long-termer (surgery later today -- eek!), but I do know a way to mix up those two flavors of shakes. I've been using the Syntrax Nectar unflavored protein powder in all kinds of things. It mixes thinly, and it is indistinguishable in most things. I don't love it in cottage cheese, but I do love it in cream soups and purees. I also mix it in my shaker bottle with 16 oz water and a Crystal Lite package. Lots of variety to be had.

Oh wow, today??? I pray everything goes well for you! Please let me know how it goes for ya!

In doing great! Had surgery around noon, and was in my room a bit before 4:00. I'm having a manageable amount of pain that's been addressed by pain meds in an IV. I also have a tap block for pain management (vs. a pain pump), but it doesn't seem to have kicked in just yet. Still, not unmanageable -- very much like many, many sit-ups.

I've had no vomiting and no significant issue with nausea. A tiny bit of queasiness immediately after surgery, but even then, no vomiting.

I've been able to take in liquids with no issue. Since 4:00, I've had four small bowls of broth, two cups of decaf tea, and some ice chips. I did have trouble with sugar-free Jello and sugar-free Popsicles, but I'll try them again at a later time.

I've been up walking laps around the floor, and everyone is right -- it really does help!

Good luck, everyone!!

Awesome! I am glad to hear it AJH! Sounds like you are off to a great start. :-)