GOOD NEWS AND A LITTLE BAD NEWS

Well my friends, the good news is that I found out today I got my insurance approval. YEAHHHHH!!! Bad news is that my surgeon wants me on a liquid protien diet until my surgery on 1/24. She wants me to loose 20 lbs. in 10 days. Gaining 20 in 10 is a breeze, but loosing it??? I do get a repreive on Sunday because we have tickets to a dinner theatre. Otherwise I will be on liquids only for the next 10 days. OMG!!! How will I survive????? Did any of you have to do this? If so, got any tips for me. Already I am so hungry I could eat the arms and legs of a gorilla! Rosa

First things first--congrats on the approval! You are on your way to a new life, and that is something to rejoice about. As far as the liquid diet goes, no, I didn't have to do that. However, I have known others that did. The doctors want to have their patient in the best shape possible prior to surgery to make for the best outcomes. I know it won't be real easy, but think of it this way. You will already be joining the losing side, as well as making yourself healthier in preparation for not only the surgery, but your future as well! God never gives us anything we can't handle (although sometimes we wonder!) but you have His support, your angels support, and all of us! I am sure your partner wants you to be healthier and happpier so you can spend the rest of your lives together. My partner was afraid for me before surgery--she said she didn't know what she would do if something happened to me in surgery and something went wrong. I told her that the opposite was what she had to fear--if I didn't have the surgery, she would lose me for sure, as I was dying a day at a time. Now I am living every day to its fullest! You will do the same! I had my surgery July 11, 2005, and have lost 89.5 lbs so far (yes, I am counting that half pound!!) Everyone will tell you it's a real experience, and that while our journeys are similar in some ways, each of us takes a different road. This liquid part is your journey, and you will succeed, because you will be given the strength to succeed if you ask for it. Think positive, think of your long term outcome, and know that you have support here to help you! Sue

Sue, I am with you...every ounce loss counts! You are doing well! Congrats! Debbie

Thanks Debbie. I do so appreciate all the support! Rosa

Thanks so much Sue. I am doing the best I can and actually had a successful day. Not to say that it wasn't difficult, because it really was. I am so looking forward to my new life. It will all be worth it. I am praying to God for the strength to make it through these next 9 days and post-op too. Having supportive people like you really makes a difference. Big Hug, Rosa

Rosa, Congrads on your approval! I was on liquids for a month after my surgery and I will tell you it wasnt that bad at all. I loaded up on Protein getting atleast 90grams a day and was not hungry at all. At the surgeons office they even have protein hot chocolate and soups which helps alot. Put ice in the protein drinks and blend and its like a milkshake, takes longer to drink and its fills you up. The SF jello is like a treat and is considered a liquid. At PMRI the dietician said that Cream of Wheat made thinly is also a liquid and I ate (spooned and sipped) that daily. Keep busy at this time and it will make things easier. Hope this helps you.....Take care.....Sharon

Thanks Sharon, I did get some of the products at the surgeon's office, and to be honest, they haven't been half bad. I know if I can make it througt the next 9 days and 3 min. I will be ok. The hardest part is just ahead of me. I will try your tips. Sounds like some great ideas. Hugs, Rosa

CONGRATS!!! So glad you got your approval!!! Now as for the liquid diet.... Sorry, but hopefully it'll go by fast. Our surgery dates are coming up fast!! Look for me on 3C. April

Thanks April, We are going to do it girl. I will be sure to look for you. You will be one day ahead of me, so you may have to find me. LOL. I will be the one with the big family and high on morphine! Hey who knows, maybe we will be roomies!!! Got you in my prayers! Rosa

Rosa, I just did a Plateau Buster where I had to do liquids for a week. Let me tell you I am 9 months out and lost 17 lbs. Beleave me you can do it. It's not as hard as it seems. You will be surprised. I could eat pudding,jello,thin oatmeal, cream soup and protein shakes. What were you told you could eat? And lots of water. Drink, Drink, Drink !!!! Remember this is a start to a new life. See you lighter. Joanne