Hi all, I joined this forum in 2011 anticipating surgery, but my employer's insurance would not approve, but then I came down with leukemia and that totally shot it out of the Water. But I am back and hope it will be happening before the end of the year, with Medicare since I had to stop working.

I am looking for anyone who has been sleeved or going to be for support and encouragement.

I hope some will pick this group to communicate with others.

Has anyone tried Torani Flavored Syrup ? I saw a post where someone is using it to flavor Protein drinks, teas, lemonage, etc. It is sweetened with splenda.

I use the SF caramel and pumpkin pie. I add the caramel to SF instant hot cider to make a carmel apple drink. I add the pumpkin to a soy latte.

Lynda

I was selective in the beginning, telling only a few close friends......as time went on though, I realized what a powerful solution this was, and as I lost the weight and transformed myself, I became less self-concious about it and when people ask, I simply tell them what I did. No drama....I basically said for me, it was the only solution and the best decision I ever made. If they want to know more, I tell them, if not, we move on to the next subject. The main thing is that you feel comfortable with the decision.....some people will react in a way that you don't like, some people will be supportive.....but it is much easier to tell people after they can see the results....and then most people are happy for you. If people think you have taken the easy way out -and the honest truth is, it is easier (and way more effective!) than traditional diets. Then let them think what ever they want. Who cares. This is your life....be proud that you are taking control and I think you will find, that as you lose weight, you will have more confidence in every aspect of your life......and when and if you choose to talk about it, you will feel good about that choice. You have no control how others might think.....as long as you are genuine, and kind, and understand everyone is different, and no one makes decisions on what is right or wrong for you, but YOU, you will be fine!!!!! Since I have only lived in Europe since my surgery, most of our friends don't even know I used to be so heavy, and very few people here are overweight, so it's really become a non-issue for me. But make no mistake, not a day goes by that I am not grateful for having done this.

I have one close friend that is totally against it, but I am not letting it concern me. I have family and 4 other close friends who understand and support it. They are my cheerleaders. The only thing that the doctor and a friend was concerned about when I started this a year ago was not to rush into and be sure that my leukemia was in check. Had a checkup with my oncologist a couple weeks ago and I am still in remission. He thinks that I am good to go, as is my family doctor and cardiologist. I have been through a lot the last 4 5 years and they want me to do what is best.

Kind of quiet in this room, is everyone doing okay ?

Loose skin, any experiences if you have had the sleeve done ?

Yes, I do have loose skin under my arms and a bit in my belly; not tragic but I am thinking of having a body lift done. Haven't decided yet. I did have a breast reduction done in May of 2013 and zero regrets....I am SO happy to have 22 year boobs at age 60! So I would definitely start there (IMHO!)

Morning LainieG,

I'm doing great this morning, have my surgery date of Oct 27th and almost done with prerequisites. I have a EKG and stress test on Tuesday. Last weigh in on Oct 10th, so I'm flying high right now.

So how is your day...

Grammy I'm doing good too.saw cardiologist today, stress test next week & start preop.diet next Fri.surgery 10/17.Its getting very real. My surgeon had me watch a preop.video &take a test. That's when it was clear how serious this surgery is. No second thoughts, just realizing I should probably start some light exercise - heard it helps w/recovery

So excited for you Grammy and Kathy.. I see my cardiologist next week then I will be all done with preop tests. Kathy what is on your preop diet ?

Thanks Lainie. I have 2 protein shakes (breakfast and lunch) I can eat jello as snack & dinner will be small protein (3 oz) & 1 cup veggies or 2 c salad. An extra protein drink if I need it.

You are nearing the end & will be in pre-op diet before you know it!

Thanks Kathy, I am anxious !! We have an all day class before surgery. Not sure what it entails, but I am sure it will cover about everything. I know nutrition is one of the subjects. Good luck on the preop, you will do well.

Lainie

Hi everyone! Just finished bingeing on Queen's blog...what an inspiration! My surgery date is Oct. 22 but I have one more diet class before they can submit to insurance for approval. I was having waves of anxiety about the surgery and possible complications, and concerns about my age but after reading Queen of Crops blog, I just want to save my life and give this present to myself and my husband. She made me realize that I was the only one standing in my way... I don't want to be pushed in wheelchair thru an airport or be too fat to fit in theatre seats anymore. I just want to wish everyone good luck and a healthy future!

@@Vsglady Queens blog is addictive. Best wishes to you on your journey. As w/any surgery there will always be risk & some hard days but just focus on the end result & the reason you are doing it. It's all for the better good.

@@Vsglady Queens blog is addictive. Best wishes to you on your journey. As w/any surgery there will always be risk & some hard days but just focus on the end result & the reason you are doing it. It's all for the better good.