Howdy! My name is Beth and I live in Newburgh, NY, which is about 80 miles north of the Big Apple. I'm 45, married, mother to 1 beautiful 25 year old daughter, and my nearly 18 year old canine. I recently read a post about having an identity outside of your weight struggles and surgery decisions. While I thoroughly agree with this ideal, I find that lately my entire existence has truly become about my upcoming surgery. The last few months have been filled with various appointments and tests to determine my eligibility for the surgery, and now that my surgery has finally been scheduled I find life is revolving about getting ready to have it, and preparing for life after. I will be starting the 2 week liver reducing diet on Wednesday, and then nothing but fluids on the 22nd, and D-Day on the 23rd. With my surgical history (17 procedures in 28 years), I find that I'm not at all anxious about having surgery, but the life changes afterward are an entirely different matter. I imagine my anxiety regarding this is natural, at least it seems like it should be a natural reaction to such a drastic change. I'm trying my hardest to set myself up for success. I know that if I do not have things in place beforehand that I tend to make bad decisions in the "heat of the moment." I've already mail ordered and received all the appropriate Vitamins and supplements. I'm slowly stocking up on the things I'll need directly after surgery. It has taken me a long time to find a Protein drink that I could stomach, and leave it to me to only like one of the most expensive. I'm slowly stocking those as well. My cousin has been making me homemade chicken and turkey broth and freezing it into ice cube trays. What a great idea that was! Thanks Bernadette. The next couple of weeks are going to fly by, I hope. I was very happy to find this forum, and only wish I'd found it sooner. The support groups around here only meet once a month, and I find I need a bit more support than that. I imagine I'll need even more after the surgery. I have a very good family and friend support system at home, but sometimes only folks that have been through the same things can truly understand what you are going through. I'm sure I'll be posting things here and there, and most definitely reading other people's accounts. Congrats to all of us who are getting ready to, and those who have already undertaken this huge step towards healthier and longer lives. I'll be seeing you around the forums. Good Night All!!

Good luck on your journey!!!

Welcome. My only suggestion, be careful about stocking up on the protein shakes. Your taste may likely change after surgery. Several, including myself, have experienced this. Best wishes on your journey.