I was approved this morning from the insurance company for the lap band procedure. I'm scheduled for May 14th have a few pounds to get off to prove to the doc I'm serious. Dr. Cywes will be doing the surgery at Memorial Hospital here in Jacksonville. My BMI is 48 and I look forward to the changes in lifestyle. Anyone have any suggestions during this waiting period before surgery?

I would start making small changes in your life. It will make the transition much easier! Start taking a 20 minute walk everyday. You'll need to do at least that after surgery. Start drinking 60 ounces of water and start experimenting with different protein shakes. Find one you like. You'll need to consume 60-100 g of protein each day. If you really want to get crazy, learn how to take small bites. It really does take practice.

I have started cutting out carbs and trying to eat mostly protein. I began drinking lots of water today but at a slow pace. The chewing is going to take a while as I'm so used to swallowing things whole. Thanks for the advice. I'll really start working harder on the chewing.

Congratulations! Learning to chew your food is the key along with making good choices. Planning ahead has been the key to me. Dr. Cywes is tough I go to Dr. Baptista who is sensitive to the struggle. Good Luck!