Hey everyone,

I’m a few weeks post-op and trying to get all my ducks in a row for the long haul. My surgeon’s office briefly mentioned that I should probably start wearing a medical ID bracelet, especially for emergency situations where I might not be able to speak for myself.

Apparently, it's pretty crucial for EMTs to know we can't have blind nasogastric (NG) tubes or certain NSAIDs (like Ibuprofen/Advil) because of the pouch.

For those of you who wear one:

• What exact wording did you put on yours?

• Do you wear it 24/7, or just when you go out?

• Did you manage to find one that doesn't look like a chunky, clinical plastic hospital band?

Thanks. Jenny

I didn't get one just for my gastric bypass, but I later needed one for another condition, so I included:

NO NSAIDS
NO BLIND NG TUBE

I got a tag that slides onto my watchband from Road ID, so it is pretty inconspicuous.

Hi there,

I'm new here and haven't had sleeve surgery yet. It was supposed to be June 22nd but I wouldn't have gotten the shakes in time to shrink my liver and I'mdiabetic, so it's now September 14th, safety first.

I have a medic alert and I plan on putting no nsaids/ng tube as an update. Especially since I already have the bracelet and card

As a former practical nurse, I know not all EMTs will look under a watch if they don't need to

You can get Gastric Bypass medical alert bracelets at The BariatricPal Store.

Never heard of that. My sleeve was 12 years ago.

My bariatric sleeve is scheduled for September 14th, and I'm pretty nervous and looking forward to it at the same time. I'm in Canada and I'm concerned about the "rest of your life" stuff and the pre op liquid diet

I did get one! I have no clue where it is all these years later lol

Hey everyone, just wanted to loop back and give a quick update!

My bracelet finally arrived, and it’s the exact one from the photo I posted. I am so glad I went through with it! The grey strap is incredibly soft and adjustable, so I’ve been wearing it 23/7 (even to sleep) and honestly forget it’s even there.

For anyone else on the fence or wondering what to engrave, here is exactly what I ended up putting on mine based on my surgeon's recommendations:

• Front: My name, Sulfa Allergy, Type 2 Diabetes, and a big "SEE BACK SIDE" prompt.

• Back: GASTRIC BYPASS (04/2026), NO BLIND NG TUBE, NO NSAIDS, NO SUGARS, and my husband Matt’s phone number as my ICE contact.

Shoutout to everyone who gave advice on this thread. It’s a huge weight off my shoulders knowing I’m protected if an emergency ever happens.

Thanks again, everyone! Hope you are all doing well on your journeys. ❤️

Way to go Jenny, I'm happy for you 😊. How are you doing since the surgery? I'm getting my sleeve done this September, and I'm a bit nervous, while at the same time looking forward to it. Like you, I am also diabetic.

Chat soon

Thank you so much. That truly means a lot to me, and your kind words put a huge smile on my face. 😊

I'm doing really well, thank you for asking! I won't sugarcoat it—the first few weeks after the surgery were definitely a physical and emotional roller coaster while my body adjusted to the massive changes. But looking back now, it was worth every single hard day. The energy I've gained back and just how much better I feel overall has been life-changing.

It is completely normal to feel that mix of nerves and excitement. It’s a huge milestone, and it’s okay to have a little anxiety about the unknown! But please give yourself some credit for taking this step for your health.

Being a fellow diabetic, I can tell you that the relief on that front is one of the best parts of this entire journey. Seeing those blood sugar numbers stabilize and feeling like you're finally getting back in the driver's seat of your own health is an incredible feeling, and I am so excited for you to experience that.

Just take it one day at a time right now. If you ever want to vent about the pre-op diet, ask any random questions, or just need someone to remind you that you've got this, I'm right here.

How are you holding up with all the preparation?

I never thought of this and considering I have allergies to some meds in addition to the sleeve I went ahead and ordered one, thanks for the idea.

I ordered one from a French company (Qoeur) as I felt it was understated, matched my style plus if I like it I will order other bands to switch with outfits.

It arrived today so I am now off to create my profile

Edited June 30Jun 30 by FifiLux

On 5/25/2026 at 2:29 PM, panterasphoenix said:

My bariatric sleeve is scheduled for September 14th, and I'm pretty nervous and looking forward to it at the same time. I'm in Canada and I'm concerned about the "rest of your life" stuff and the pre op liquid diet

Me, too. My surgery is scheduled for Aug. 3rd.