1 Week to go!!!

Well I must say that I am nervous but confident. I am going thursday to purchase the ensure...and other items needed. I had my Pre Admission tests on the 16th and all went very well. After talking with Dr Bell I feel more at ease. I know this is my path that I must follow. I have prayed many nights. I am excited for all of you and proud of all your accomplishments. God is good, isn't he!! I hope to meeting alot of angels at the meetings. If any one has any advice for the one week nerves, let me know. I go in the same day as Carol W, however have not had chance to talk to her. Carol I pray for ya and wish you well. Maybe I will see ya in the hospital, we can walk the halls together. God Bless Patty Nunes

Patty, Hard to believe you are down to the final countdown huh?? No last minute advice other than don't take alot of extra stuff to the hospital, you won't use anything besides a robe, toothbrush and chap stick. I found that my last week was kind of interesting. It thought I would want to get in all these last meals (which I did) but I really didn't feel like eating that much. I guess my mind was saying enough is enough already. As far as supplies for when you are home goes, remember 2oz of ensure three times a day really stretches it out.... You might want to make sure you have some Adult Liquid Tylenol on hand and maybe some milk of magnesia. I didn't use the liquid pain killer but once so that bottle really went to waste but I did use the liquid tylenol mostly for headaches. The milk of mag on hand in case of constipation (I needed it) and maybe some immodium in case you have the opposite effect. I think I also used some gas-x the first couple of days. I will be there to visit both you and Carol and hope to see you at the support group meetings also. They are really worth while. We learn so much from each other. Take care and this week will fly by and you will be on your way to your new life. Linda

Hi, I'm Susan and I have 9 days to go. I know how you feel. I bought a package of Glucerna and one of Ensure This morning I tried the Ensure, it seems awfully sweet. I tried the chocolate, I was thinking maybe I could get ready by trying out some of these liquid protein drinks while I still feel good, then it won't be such a shock after surgery. Just think, another day closer to a new and improved you!

Hi Patricia, You are in great hands with Dr. Bell! I'm glad you feel confident (nerves are normal - but confidence helps). This is a wonderful gift that the Lord has given us - I think Him continuously! Can't wait to see you at a support meeting - in the meantime, pack light (like Linda said) - I didn't even need the robe! Chap stick or lip balm is a MUST! I was so looped from the morphene that I never read a book or magazine -- the tv was lots of fun -- it kept circling the room on me As soon as you possibly can - get up and move. Ask to stand - ask to walk - ask to brush your teeth - anything that will get you moving and feeling better! It really helps. God Bless, Kathy Bilodeau Lap RNY 12/3/03 -50 lbs.

BRING A SMALL FAN!! That is my best advice! The hosp rooms run warm, plus so do we, plus the drugs make us warmer!! PLUS....it drowns out the noise levels. (I had a screamer on my floor) Take advantage of ice chips they offer too, your mouth gets real dry and they give you something to do besides watching the TV spin around the room!! Kathy, you crack me up!