Hi! I finally figured out how to start a thread of my own. I just wanted to post a little introduction of myself.

I was a pretty average sized child. Around the start of my puberty years is when my relationship with food changed. I had a bit of a tumultuous home life and the only thing I had control over was what and how much I ate. After a while I became a "foodie", not just enjoying the taste of food but the culture of chef life and cooking competitions.

It never really bothered me to be overweight until I went to the doctor for a routine physical and tipped the scales at 297. I decided then and there that I was done being a fat girl. I had a consultation with Dr. Medvetz at Lourdes Medical Center and she was absolutely amazing. I started the journey toward getting sleeved and it's been a long one. I think hardest of all was learning to appreciate the artistry of cooking without needing to consume the product of it.

I'm having my surgery on February 9th and I'm both nervous and excited. I cannot wait to change my life, especially since I will be starting nursing school in the fall. This pre-op liquid diet is killing me though!! So far I have lost about 15lbs but it hasn't come without suffering. I don't feel hungry exactly, but weak and dizzy are a more accurate description. The shakes are hard to digest. Hoping the next four days fly by! I look forward to getting to know you all and sharing our journeys.

Hi Gemini. Wanted to wish you good luck on your journey. What kind of shakes are you drinking? I have a feeling that someone on this website is going to come by and ask you the right questions and offer advice about the dizziness and weakness you are feeling. I don't know enough yet but I am trying to learn all I can. So many helpful people here!!

Edited February 6, 201511 yr by VickiCat

Thanks Vicki! I'm drinking Bariatric Advantage chocolate flavored. My nutritionist suggested that I try some protein shakes while I was going through the clearances and BA seemed to be the least foul tasting. I would put it in the blender with have a banana and 10oz of water, freeze for twenty minutes, and enjoy. And now I suddenly can't stomach the stuff. I bought unflavored whey protein to mix into my food once I hit the outer stage, but for now I am eating nothing Bc all of my "options" pretty much sicken me. Today my meal was one pickle. I'm trying to at least drink water and unflavored tea to compensate.

I have tried EAS AdvantEDGE Protein drinks (chocolate only)-it was ok. Haven't tried BA yet. Premier Protein wasn't bad at all but it is sweet. Lots of people on here seem to love the powders?utm_source=BariatricPal&utm_medium=Affiliate&utm_campaign=CommentLink" target="_ad" data-id="1" >unjury chicken broth so I will try that. I want to find an unflavored protein to add to Soups and such...I've been reading about them. I read that if you heat them above 140 degrees F the protein will clump. Too many choices out there and too many differing opinions---makes for a LOT of confusion.

Wow, only 3 more days for you! Exciting AND scary! I am going to "stalk" you on here to keep up with your progress! (in a good way-not a creepy way!)

I have been reading the injury reviews here too. I know my nutritionist has samples so I might ask to try some before I commit to ordering. I really just need to get my Protein up.

Stalk away, Vicki!! I will definitely be giving surgery updates.