I'm back......anyone miss me

Well, I went to Jax for seminar and blood work, ekg and things. Looks good for surgery at end of August. NOW I really have BIG butterflies in my stomach. Missed reading and listening to you all. Hope I didn't miss any juicy info. ANyway, I have stepped up to this surgery and I am more excited everyday. Can someone tell me what the "angel" thing is. It seems kinda self explanatory but I thought more info would help me understand. Also. They told me no carbonated drinks after surgery. What about later.? if anyone drinking diet sodas afterwards. Just trying to see what food and drinks don't work. I know it varies from person to person but I just wondered. Great to be in the board again. Carol

Hi Carol, Glad your tests are over with and your surgery is on the horizon. An OH angel is someone who offers encouragement and checks up on you (by phone or in person) while you are in the hospital and reports how your surgery went on the message board. I'm sure many angels and angelettes have formed great friendships and support each other thru their WLS journey. As far a carbonation goes, my nutritionist said that we shouldnt drink it after surgery ever because it introduces air (carbonation) into your pouch which takes up vital space that you need for food. There may be other reasons, but that was what I remember from my class. I am lucky because I havent been a big soda drinker for many years but I do miss my flavored sparkling waters . Keep us posted on your surgery date. Amy

Thanks for the info. Man....I will miss my Coke habit. (diet,of course) I have been on 4-6 a day for a long time. Guess I might have to go to Water with lemon. Not as exciting maybe but shoot.......I'll be a loser, who cares. Carol

Hey Carol...glad your back and yes we missed you. My surgery date is August 23...let me know if we'll be going to the other side together..I wish you alot of luck...and I already have the Bigtime butterflies..even cried last night...but if you need a friend or just wanna chat..email me...take care... Hugs, Mady

August 23, huh..............sounds good, CONGRATULATIONS. Maybe we will be twins. Yes, i know about the crying. Some days I do it all day. Just nerves, mind you, I am truly sure I want to do this but WHEW!!!......It sure takes a bit out of a girl. Take care and same goes for me. email me anytime. Carol

Hello Carol ~ Glad to have you back And yes we missed you, I am glad to hear that all the testing went good and cleared you for surgery It is nerve racking I know Everything will be fine, just relax and take good care of yourself... Glad to have you back ~ Robin [email protected]

Thanks for the support. This is so great to have people to talk to about all this. I just don't know if I could do all this without having others like you that have been there and going there that want to talk about it all. It is so easy to confess to fears and anxieties when you know the ones you are talking to understand. Carol

Hi Carol, I was waiting for you to post. I started to email you last night and realized it was a long trip and knew you would come here asap. I'm so glad you have a safe trip and your tests are done...is that all you need to do for Dr. Webb? Does he have a program fee as well? I'm full of questions tonight. One more hurdle you jumped my friend, approval will be a breeze if they submit it the way they are suppose to for Tricare, oops I mean ChampVA and hopefully by FAX, that is improtant with them and you get an answer within 2-4 days. This move deserves a happy dance, considering you drove so long up and back.

Yes, I am glad to get back home for a few days. I still have to do an upper GI but the rest is pretty well over. Some things I think pre-op right before. There is a program fee for the group he has taken care of your lifetime program. $3500. I have seen them more and some less. I just really liked this group. His nurse in the office is a loser of 18months and she is ready to "testify" at the drop of a hat. They just really seem to be attentive. I received the confirmation letter to give the doctor from my insurance while I was gone. Thanks for being there. Carol

Hi Carol, welcome back!! You were missed!! My surgeon says that soda will stretch out your pouch, but I am a bit skeptical to be honest. On the other hand, there's no redeeming or nutritional value in soda, so why drink it? Since we're supposed to be learning good habits after surgery, I think soda falls into that category. Of course, it's easy for me to say since I don't care about soda and have no problem with decaff coffee. Water has never been my problem! Anyway, you're another step closer and I'm happy for you!