Date set

Finally, I am scheduled for a lap RNY for Monday, March 14 with Dr. Gibbs. Has anyone out there had the lap with Dr. Gibbs. I need to know about how long I need to plan to be off work. I know some places say two weeks but I have read where some patients went back to work much sooner. I teach so no problem with lifting, unless I pick up one of these college kids and throw them out the window. ha. Anxiously awaiting comments. Thanks, C

You have mail! Cindy

Charlotte, I didn't use Dr. Gibbs as I live in NW Arkansas and had it done here. But I did have the lap RNY. I had my surgery Wednesday at noon, was up walking at 6PM, and home on Friday at noon. Felt great, no problems and could have gone back to work on the 3rd week but I chose to stay home and enjoy my grandkids during the summer so I took the 6 weeks! It was wonderful and I felt great. This has been the easiest surgery for me. March 26th will be 10 months and I've lost 103 pounds. I have only had a few "dumping syndromes" but that was my fault...overate or ate something with too much sugar. I've no complications and feel great. Wish you the best! Glenn Gay Springdale

Charlotte, I used Dr. Gibbs and had the lap surgery. My surgery was on Wednesday and I went home Friday afternoon. I went back to work in 2 weeks, I still probably got a bit tired, but I was bored with being at home. I could have started part-time, but full-time didn't bother me. I am sure it is different with each individual, so just listen to what your body tells you. Good Luck. Bobbi

Thanks Bobbi, now another question. How do you take your vitamins? and what all do you take? I want to do everything possible to avoid hair loss and gall bladder attack, any suggestions? Charlotte

Charlotte, I am supposed to take 2 Flintstones complete a day. I tried buying cheaper ones...don't. They will probably also tell you to take calcium. I didn't really like any of my choices at GNC, but I found Spring Valley chewable at Walmart. It's a cheaper version of Viactiv. It's like little tootsie rolls and so I don't mind taking it. Viactiv also now has a multiple vitamin, I might try those as the Flintstones are getting old quick. I do a powdered protein that I mix with my coffee. It doesn't mix the best, but I like the flavor of it best of all. I had trouble with the shakes and such and this was the easiest way for me. My guess is that you will have to try different things on your own. I just know for me, the shakes or protein bars did not do well on my stomach, I might do better with them now, but since I have something that works, I just stick with it. There is a shampoo that is supposed to help with hair loss. I don't remember the name of it, but your hairdresser might know. I am not sure it works great, but just remember, the hair loss will stop. Actually that was one of my worst fears, kind of silly huh? I don't have an answer to the gallbladder question, I suppose I haven't had any problems with that. I hope this helps some, if there is anything else you need, just let me know. Take Care, Bobbi