Angel, I had the surgery about 4.5 months ago and it was not as bad as I made it out to be in my mind. You will arrive at the hospital several hours before and have to get preped and ready. They will ask a bunch of questions and likely offer you some relaxation medication. I was pretty much at ease that morning so I said no thanks. Then they came in and gave me a med and said to say bye to the family. The med was already working so it was HAPPY HAPPY HAPPY goodbye. The first hour after will be the most uncomfortable. If you have ever fainted before, when you first wake up is the best way I can explain what I experience. You will want to get up and walk as much as you can. I walked 60 laps in the 2 days I was there; that was about 6 miles. I actually felt the very best when I was walking around. You have to urinate in the first day, so that can be a challenge. I tried for over an hour, but the more I concentrated, the more I couldn't. Finally, as I was frustrated, I looked out the window and could see a traffic light off in the distance. It turned green, and at that moment I began to go, as if by magic. I was out in two days with two overnights. The pain meds I was on could only be taken every 6 hours. I really started to notice more pain after the 5 hour mark. Pain treatment is so different from doctor to doctor that you may have a very different experience. Then I went home and lived happily ever after...ok...so life still happens, but it is so much better that I would trade nothing I've been through in the past year. The best thing I can say is to savor the moment and enjoy this part of the ride. Don't be nervous...even if that seems hard to do. I was pretty much at peace with it, but some get a bit worked up. This is a special time that most look back on with favorable memories. Also, do not expect the first month to be a picnic. I think that most would say that you have to get into your 2nd month before you really are glad you took the plunge. That first month is a bit boring with foods and it seems like it lasts forever. In reality, it is a short time and you snap your fingers and it is over. I hope this helps. John

Hi there I am ready and oh so looking to my fresh start--I am almost done eating my favourite foods and trying to prepare for the next 3 weeks of OPTIFAST!! Wishing you all the best Tracey

Anyone having surgery in November? Or, have you already had it? Any helpful hints if you have??? What doctor and hospital?

I am Nov. 6th too. I am in Baltimore, Md. I will find out the exact time on Tuesday. I am anxious and can't wait to begin my new life. Yes, a little scared too. God Bless You & Good Luck. Hope you & I will look back at this next year and say "why did we wait so long to do this!!!!" Karen

I've read, read & reread about bariatric surgery and RNY that I am having. I checked my doctor out as well as the hospital. I am so ready to get started on a new life's journey. I will keep a positive attitude about this as this is for me and only me. I want my life back. I want to feel comfortable walking, gettting dressed, moving and yes, going to the gym. I want to see the old me that has been missing for over 20 years! Starting checking into bariatric surgery in December 2006. Checked the internet for someplace close at home to go to (baltimore). Called early January and was told the first available meeting was mid Feb (2-14 to be exact). My car broke down on the way to the meeting. Thought maybe God was trying to tell me NOT to do this. I decided the next day, to forget the "omen" theory and called to explain my cir****tances. I got to the first available meeting on Feb. 28th. Met with the doctor the second week of March. Had to wait 6 months due to insurance requirements. Submitted to insurance on Aug 10th. Took over a month go get an OK. Finally, Nov. 6th surgery date. I'll be scared & praying at the same time but need to do this for health & personal reasons. Anybody else feel the same way? Karen