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Hi, First time posting, long time reader. Surgery date is 2/21/05, with Dr. Nadzem at St Raphaels. RNY Lap. Have all the tests completed. And Connecticare has approved. Just need to calm the nerves. Starting my pre surgery diet, not the Ketos one. How are the nurses at St Raphaels, have not seen very much on this hospital staff? What should I bring to wear home? Should I have sneakers to walk at the hospital? Any help will be greatly taken. Thanks for answers in advance D Kerkes help

Debbie Welcome out of hiding. Nerves are normal... If you have done your research...you will be fine. I cannot say anything about the nurses at HSR..but they have had their bariatric program quite a few years--hopefully they all understand the needs of the bariatric patient. I wore home what I wore in..loose fitting jeans..and sneakers. Do not pack a lot..you won't need much. Good Luck..on your surgery date. May your move to the losers bench be uncomplcated and smooth. Joanie

Hi Debbie, Welcome to the WLS family and the losing side. Your journey is just starting and its gonna be a great one. Your in great hands at St Raphaels. I had Dr. Barajas in the same group and they are wonderful. The nurses are great during the day shift, but it depends who is on at night. I was there on New Years Weekend so the staff was short. I wore a comfortable sweat suit and sneakers. Like Joanie said you won't need much for your stay. But make sure you bring a pillow for your tummy, on the ride home and when you cough and sneeze or laugh you will need it for a cushion, believe me it helps. Someone on this site suggested it to me and I am glad I brought it. You will do fine and we will all be praying for you. Good luck and God Bless Kim C

Glad to see you posting. Your date is right around the corner. I had my surgery at St. Raphs as well. All of the nurses were great except for one I had on third shift. (Wasn't very helpful about coming quick to help me to the bathroom) I just unplugged my IV and took it with me. Everyone else really took good care of me. You will be given slipper socks with grips to do your walking. One thing I can suggest is make sure you bring some lip balm. It gets very dry and your lips will dry out fast. As for coming home, wear something loose and comfy like sweats. The looser the better due to being sore and having a swelly belly. If you have a considerable ride home from the hospital, consider bringing a pillow to seatbelt over your belly. This helped a lot for me. ( I had an hour and a half ride home) Don't worry about the staff at St Raphs. You'll be in good hands. Maggie

Hi Debbie Sorry I cannot answer your questions but want to say welcome to our Ct message board and congrats for you will be on losing sides. Good luck on your surgery and hope your surgery will be speedy and well. Kathy k

Hi Thank you for the welcome. Any info will be greatly appreciated. Thanks Debbie

Debbie! Welcome and congrats on your date! I am still pre-op so can't really answer your questions, just wanted to welcome you to a great board! These people have all the answers!! Phyllis