It's almost time!!!

Well, my pre-testing anddietician appts are all done. Now it's time for surgery on the 21st at 5:30 in the morning. I can't believe it's almost here. I am scared not about the surgery itself but not being able to eat like I once did. I eat for comfort reasons most of the time and I think what will I do now? I know I will make it but it's so scary. And then I will have to watch everyone around eat like I once did and I won't be able to. I just don't know how I will consume 30 ml of food in 30 to 45 mins when it don't take that long for a regular meal for me I eat fast. But anyway I just wanted everyoe to know my surgery date and I will post as soon as I get home.

Tina, Hey girl, just wanted to pass on some love and support. I understand how you feel, but I can assure you that I personally have not had any trouble. The main thing is, you are NOT hungry and so eating a small amount is not a biggie. It is wierd I promise you to eat just 2 tblsp of something. I live by my medicine cups (my surgery was the 12 of Feb) and tonight for dinner I took english peas and measured them in my little cups, mashed them up on my plate and ate them with a baby spoon, and I can honestly tell you that it didnt bother me to watch my husband and sister eat grilled pork chops and chicken. I think the not being hungry part is what makes it better. Keep your chin up and always know that we are here for support. I was a fast eater also. I could eat a double quarter pounder, french fries and a large drink in 20 minutes no problem. Tonight it took 45 minutes to eat 2 tablespoons of englis peas!!! So it does work out. You just have to remember WHY we do this and if you have support at home, that makes it so much better. My doctor (Baker) has been wonderful, helpful, my husband has cooked for me, brought me things and made sure I had stuff here for me, and my family has been awesome as well. That has made this sooooooooo much easier. I am here any time you need someone to talk to, will give you my # if you want it, and will be honest about any part of my journey. Hugs and much support, Rhonda

Thanks Rhonda for you kind words. i just hope you are so right. I worry how i will never be able to go to chilis or red lobster again and those are my two favorite places to eat and what me and my husband usually do together. But now what will i be able to do are my thoughts now. I have good family support so i know I will be ok. Talk to you all soon.

Hey Tina! Congratulations on your upcoming surgery!!! I had my surgery about 8 weeks ago. It changes the way you think about food because you feel so good once you start losing! I don't miss any of the foods that I thought I would and it does not bother me to see other people eat the way that I use to. I also ate for comfort and as a child, I was awarded with sweets when I did something good. I see you are from Ozark. I am from Dyer. What type of surgery are you having and who is your surgeon? I had a Lapband in Little Rock by Dr. Luttrell. I have lost 35 pounds so far and it has already lowered my blood pressure and improved my asthma. I am going tomorrow to have my first fill. I am so excited for you! You will be so happy. Please feel free to email me if you have any questions or just want to talk. It really helps to have someone to talk to that has gone through the same things! I will be thinking about you on the 21st. Good Luck!!!!! Crystal

Hi Tina, Dr Gibbs was my surgeon. Are you going to Baptist? I always try to stop by and meet our "newbies" while they're in the hospital, and would love to come see you and make sure they're treating you well!! My husband and I were just talking last night about how our eating habits have changed since my surgery (9/14/06). Going out to dinner has a whole new meaning for us. First of all, we rarely do it since the focus of our lives has changed away from food. Before, we'd go out two or three times a week and were spending a TON of money. Now, instead of thinking about what I'm going to make for dinner while I'm eating breakfast, I keep things in the house that are quick and easy to make. I only cook about three times a week since we always have leftovers around now. I guess my point here is that food doesn't rule my life anymore. Oh sure, I'm always tracking what I've eaten through Fitday.com, but that's more to make sure I get the food in that I need. I'm making those choices that are healthier for me and for my long term success. Don't get me wrong, you'll be able to go to those places in a few weeks, but you'll be eating it out of a box for two or three days afterwards! Husband's birthday was last week and we went to PF Changs for lunch. I had a cup of hot and sour soup, he had what he wanted and we were both happy. Don't worry, be happy!!! You'll do great. Let me know if you'd like a visitor. Susan

Hey Tina! I know you're getting excited, anxious, nervous, etc... It's perfectly normal. I was a comfort eater too. Now, I just really don't want to eat unless I'm hungry. I can't explain it...once my new tummy is full, its full and I don't want anything else. Before, I'd keep eating my favorite food long after I was full...its not a problem now because just one extra bite makes me uncomfortable for hours. I've only gotten sick a couple of times, praise God, but I know when something doesn't sit very well with me, its a very heavy uncomfortable feeling and once that happens, I don't go near that food again. Don't worry, you'll learn to eat slow especially after you start your soft foods and then meats and so on. You'll know if you're eating too fast because it will hurt. If that happens, just take a few minutes and let it settle. I've moved on to chicken and beef and sometimes it takes me an hour and a half to eat. Eventually it will all become routine to you and you won't even think about it. Good luck! Feel free to PM me anytime after you get home. Denise