To All August Pre-ops

I wish you luck, health, joy and excitement for the path you're all about to take. The 7th will be five months for me and it has been the most exciting time of my life! I know you're all feeling a bit jittery right about now. It's completely normal. I suggest two things: First, go to the "before and after" pics section and look at them and think "this will be me, soon!" Do NOT, DO NOT read profiles right now! Occasionally, you will hit a land mine (a profile of a procedure that didn't go well) that'll scare the holy poo out of you. JUST LOOK AT THE PICS. Second, time to do some visualization: Close your eyes, a couple times a day, and picture yourself, 12 months from now: How you feel, how you look, the fun of buying clothes OFF THE NORMAL RACK, how other people are complimenting you, the shock of recognition by people you haven't seen in awhile. Feel the feelings, smell the smells, all of it. Take your time. Bask in it. Enjoy it. Then, just for a minute, visualize yourself, one year from now, if you DON'T have the surgery done. If you're like me, you'll almost SKIP into the OR!!! Peace; God Bless! And Good Luck!! Greg Sands (342/225/178)

Thank you so much for the words of encouragement! Yep,,got the jitters . But good jitters. Ready to get this to rollin'!! I have everything ready. Just gotta keep busy this week and then its a go! Thank you again! Judy

Greg, what a sweetie pie!!!! thank you so much for your support.!!! I will do just that!!!!! I cant wait! so scoot over and save me a seat on the loosers bench k sheree

Thank you Greg! The scariest part for me is going to Tijuana for the surgery. I picked Dr. Ortiz for my surgeon. He proctors many surgeons and is on the World board of experts for the American Bariatrics Society. I am just worried about finding water to drink that won't make me sick. I know I will be thirsty. Greg, can I drink water soon after my lap-band surgery?

Catherine, Can't speak for your situation, but at our hospital, we weren't allowed to drink anything for 24 hours, minimum. We could swab out mouths out with wet sponges, but even that could give you problems with local water. However, since I'm guessing your doctor and facility cater mostly to Americans, I'm willing to bet the water will be fine. If you're not sure, call and ask. If nothing else, you might be advised to bring a few bottles of water. Good luck! Greg (342/225/178)

Hi There, I lived in Mexico for two years. Don't fret over the water... Every hotel, hospital and tourist place that is reputable has purified water. Also, ice cubes that have a hole in the middle are also purified. If you are worried, you can always bring your own bottled water with you just to be safe Tamela

Thanks for the advice and kind words! Amanda

Thank you Greg! My surgery is tomorrow and I have been a nervous wreck! You have been very encouraging. And you are totally right about not reading the profiles because I did the other day and was freakin' out but I got hold of myself and calmed down. Well calmed down enough, still nervous but very excited and very hopeful. Thanks again! Leigh

Thank you Greg for the words of advice and inspiration. I'm ready to go (I think). I'll be joining you on the 18th! Karen

Greg, thank you for the encouragement. Right now I am a bundle of nerves but trying to stay on the positive side of things. I just have to keep myself occupied for this week and I'll be good to go. I'm new on this site and I'm trying to find my way around so I haven't encountered any of the horror stories, hopefully I won't. Well thanks again and hopefully I too will soon be on the losers side. Paula