HELP with INFO!! not educated on this!

I have many friends that have had this RYN, never thought it would be me, I wasn't a normal RYN patient, I have Lumbago, and Scaitra, My Doc told be back in April about this but I thought, They would accept me cause of my friends that had this said I had to be 100 pounds or more over weight first, well I wasn't even 80 over, including the Fluid that I had, and I had alot of that, wore a size 5.5 in rings and couldn't fit a 9 on up to my nuckle. After dealing with the fluid, and taking the highest dose of Lasix, and no relief, I contacted Dr. Bolar in Lexington KY. I went June 7th for my consultation, and a had my surgery on the 16th. While in the Hospital, I really thought I was DYING! Just a smoker for 4 years, and had put them almost down but no quite fully, But I was honest with my Doc. I had many regrets at first but OMG as each day goes by I am getting better at this. I still have my wanting some real food! But it is slowing going away. Any one out there has any suggestions please let me know. I weighted in at 204 pre op, and now 179, Question is Do I feel better, YES not cause of the weight but because of smoke free and Fluid free. No meds other than the vitiams I have to take and before the surgery I was on 16 different meds everyday. SO even if (I know I will though) I wasn't too lose anymore weight I'm happy with the results of no meds and no fluid. I still could use alot more info about the post ops that I am heading for. Would love to hear from any of you with advice or suggestions. Kathy

Well, I don't know anything about Lumbago or Scaitra...so I can't offer you much there. Are you looking for more information about what lies ahead for you in this post-op journey? I have been researching what other post-ops have gone through. There is so much variety. Since I'm still newly post-op, my experience is limited. I love to go through the main message board and to look under "Select a Surgery Date" and choosing the months before mine... I read through them to see what their experiences are. From what I can see, everyone struggles at some point in time with the adjustments of our new lifestyle. Sometimes our heads are not in sync with our pouches. The ride is different for everyone. Food becomes the source of trial and error. Through this, we learn what we can and cannot eat, what our new bodies consider a meal or a treat, and so much more. I would suggest that you read through other boards, research the surgery on the internet, talk to your doctor and your nutritionist, and gather as much information as you can. Remember, too, that you can post any questions you have. We are here to support each other along this journey. I don't know if I've helped you at all...but I HOPE I have. ((hugs)) Pam

Pam, yes it does help, thank you. I had mash pot's and gravy tonight. I have this area on my stomach about 2 inches below belly button, that is very tender and is continous pain, is this normal?