Hey there guys...I have been surfing this site for a couple of weeks and didn't realize that there was one for Maryland folks (although I have met a couple in the general forum). So...I'm getting banded on April 30 at GW University Hospital by Dr. Brody. It's only 4 days a way and I'm getting very nervous. This pre-op diet has been very hard for me. I have to admit that I have cheated a couple of times...was down 12 pounds, but this morning the scales put me at 10 pounds down. That's still good, but the numbers were going in the wrong direction. I'm back on the band-wagon and figured that I can suffer for the next four days.

Anyone else out there have Dr. Brody? So far, I think that he's pretty great. I haven't had any problems with him, his office or the hospital. I had my blood work on Tuesday and now I'm all set. I would love to hear from all of the Marylanders out there. :high5:

Well Hello Again,

Glad you found the Marylander area. I was thinking about you the other day, I sent you a PM to find out how the Optifast diet was going. Four more days is not that long and soon you will be a Bandster too. Good luck to you and remember if you have any questions about your new band or just wanna talk give me a call. Just think you're on your way!!!:clap2: :clap2: :clap2:

Hey Tanya. I'm sorry...I remember now seeing your PM to me. I apologize for not getting back to you. Yeah...Optifast is not my friend. I really don't like it at all, but I guess it's doing what it's suppose to be doing. When I went over on Tuesday for my blood work, I ran into the nurse and told her that I would really love to have a salad. She said that I could and I could also eat raw vegetables...keep the calories down. So...that was a relief. We are celebrating two birthdays in the office today and I brought a veggie tray...at least I'll be able to nibble on something. No cake though...I can't believe that Monday is right around the corner. I'm terrified...were you really sore afterwards and how long before the pain went away? I bought some liquid extra strength Tylenol yesterday in preparation. I just don't know what to expect....

Tina

It's normal to feel terrified, scared, unsure and anything else. I was sore for about 3 days to the point when I layed down I didnt want to get up and then the first two days had to have my hubby help me sit up from a laid down position. It gets better just keep moving. In a way it feels like you have over exerted yourself doing too many situps. So if you havent already done so you will need to go shopping and get your liquids. Here is something that may help you:

*STAGE 1 - LIQUIDS

START: When you return home from your surgery

DIET: Clear and full liquids

GOAL: Aim for at least 64 ounces of fluid for the day by continuous sipping.

LIQUIDS RECOMMENDED:

Water

100% Fruit Juice (No sugar added)

Bouillon

Strained soups or broths

Skim or 1% milk

Soy milk

Milk Shakes - thinned

Gatorade or equivalent sports drink

Yogurt Smoothie Drinks - not including homemade

Crystal Light

Sugar free beverages

Herbal or decaffeinated tea or coffee

Popsicles (Pedialyte)

LIQUIDS TO AVOID:

Citrus juices (orange, grapefruit, pineapple)

Acidic liquids (tomato juice, tomato soup, buttermilk)

Caffeinated beverages (coffee, tea)

Carbonated beverages (any soda pop, seltzer, or tonic water)

Homemade fruit or yogurt smoothies

Anything that seems liquid but is not (Jello, yogurt, pudding, ice cream) *Do pour test*