I'm back...but it wasn't easy!

Hello again, everyone! I had my banding done on Tuesday, and just got home today. Thanks to this lovely storm, it took about 3 hours to get from Norwalk to Bridgeport, but at least I am home. My husband's happy to have me back, and the 2 dogs went simply insane with glee. If everything had gone seamlessly, I would have been home on Wednesday, but I had quite a bit of trouble keeping food down because my new stomach was inflamed and not letting much of anything through. I had very little pain - just an achy, "someone-poked-me-in-the-belly-HARD!" feeling - and was up and walking a couple of hours after the anesthesia wore off, but kept vomiting because there was no place for the liquids I was drinking to go but back up. Dr. Ehrlich told me that it's not uncommon in people with a high BMI. Last night I stuck with just rinsing my mouth with ice water or Gatorade, with no swallowing, and things stayed down okay this morning and afternoon, so they released me. On the plus side, between the 1000 calorie diet, 2 days of clear liquids and post-op problems, I've already lost between 20 and 24 pounds, depending on which scale I used. Also, my glucose level was down to 120 by the time I was released. The doctors have already told me to cease taking my insulin! I'll try to write a little more when I'm not so tired!

Hey Bette, Welcome home!! I just finished posting to Kathy that ice chips were the only thing that kept me hydrated and my stomach calm. I will tell you the same thing! They really work. That AND sugar free popsicles although all you really need to do is step outside today!! Take it slow....pleae keep us updated love Cheryl

Hi Bette, Welcome home and I'll bet you'll never forget that trip. Glad you're home safe and sound. Just wanted to send my best wishes for a quick recovery and a successful journey. Hope everything goes well and keep that wonderful attitude. Best wishes, Mary Lou

Hi Bette, So sorry to hear that it was a bit difficult for you at first -- I hope things turn around for you quickly. I don't think I could have had a better experience -- so I'll be praying you do just as well as I am. I've tried to weigh myself, but it seems as though I've gained. They pump you with fluids and gas -- I don't think I've lost all that yet. I'm on clear liquids only with a total of 6 oz. of Ensure or Slim Fast each day for a total of 2 weeks, so I'm sure I'll have lost about 20+ lbs. by my 2 week visit. I feel like I've been given a new release on life. I can't thank the Lord enough for this awsome opportunity! Also, my family and my surgeon have been wonderful. If I can help in any way, let me know -- I have no problem being a shoulder to lean on. God Bless, Kathy Bilodeau Lap RNY 12/3/03

Today is the first day that I'm actually feeling "human" again. I spent most of last night and this morning with a terrible case of diarrhea. I finally took some liquid Imodium, since I feared I was going to end up dehydrated and back in the hospital. So far, so good. I had juice, gatorade and sugarfree popsicles during the day, and little beef broth and Isopure for "dinner". I actually started craving food, instead of being nauseated by the thought of it, so I take that as a good sign. Still just taking the pain med at night, since I like to sleep on my side, and that's a tad painful. I've been catching up on my sleep, finally. In the hosp, every two hours, 24 hours a day, one of nurses wanted a BP, or temp, blood for glucose, or blood draw for CBC, Chem 7, etc. My arms are so sore and black and blue, and I didn't even notice until last night. (laughs) I thought all this was supposed to be easy!!

Hi Bette, Welcome home and congratulations on maing it to the "other side"! Best wishes for a successful journey! Hope you are feeling better soon! Take care! MaryJo

Welcome home Lady.......I wish your recovery will be as smooth as can be...hope to hear about all your progress. Hugs from Tove