Hi Nell  -   I'm so happy for you!  I too have been recently approved and I'm scheduled for my surgery 12/18/07.  I have a couple of friends who had Dr. Hardy and had great experiences!  My husband had a hernia repair by him and we both liked him alot.   Good luck - I hope to keep in touch with you during your journey.  Take Care.......d

I'm APPROVED!!!  I just called Wellmark back earlier today and found out that they had approved me!!! I got my date for surgery as well, it's going to be on December 18th (not very far away!) I'm really anxious but in a good way. More excited than anything else, but I'm sure the nerves will set in soon enough. Any good advice out there about what I should have on hand before surgery? Thanks in advance, Katie

Wanting to talk to anyone *****ached goal and is gaining again. I've read about the 5 day pouch test and wondered if anyone had success?!? What are you doing for exercise. Looking for tips on where to start etc. And looking for those who have gained again, then lost again... HELP! I had surgery in July of 04, lost 120 lbs and was 141 and a size 6 for the first time in my life.  It felt fantastic...now I'm over 160 and about a 10.  now I know this sounds rediculous and I used to roll my eyes and snort at people who were a size 10 and were depressed at their weight...but I am...depressed with my weight and mad at myself.   Thanks for any advice.

Thank you so much.  I'm ready......and it just means I don't have to cook this year!!!!!

Nell

I had the RNY rather than the lap band, so my advice is of limited use.  I personally couldn't abide any of the protein drinks--even the smell was too much for me.  But I think as long as you follow your surgeon's suggestion list, you should be good.  I would suggest you try some of the sample packets you can sometimes get from some of the online sites.  The only protein drink I came close to being able to stand was Jay Robbs that a friend got me at, I think, either Wild Oats or Trader Joes. 

Is there a time frame for you to use the drinks?  My surgeon prefers that we eat rather than drink our protein as soon as possible. 

Good luck,

Sally