You'll do fine, Dr. Oakley is a wonderful surgeon. If it's any consolation, I asked a friend who happens to be on the Board of Directors at St. Als and she asked the head surgeon. He recommended Dr. Oakley and I'm so glad I went with him. I haven't had any complications and it's been 9 1/2 months and I'm down 96.5 lbs. I've been following his programs, going to all the support meetings and I think I'm doing fine. They will give you a can of protein mix. I mixed mine with 1% milk. You'll probably need to have a blender. Then, I just had SF popsicles, no-added sugar applesauce, SF jello and pudding (pudding didn't set well with me however). I also had some chicken and beef broth. I would also suggest that you get a box of chamomile tea and sip that if your stomach gets upset. You will need to keep a bottle of water with you at all times so you can sip in-between meals. You need to drink as much as you possible can, just remember to sip though. Don't expect to be able to drink 64 oz., most can't at first but do aim for that. Don't buy alot of stuff because I still have stuff left over. At first you'll only be able to "eat" about 2-4 oz. and you'll only be eating 3-5 meals a day. That isn't much. Anyway, just try to stay busy and maybe you can use this time to start on a walking program, it'll make it easier for you afterwards if you already have a habit of exercising. For about 3-6 weeks after your surgery, you'll have no energy to speak of. Be sure to get plenty of rest. Good luck on you upcoming surgery.

Hi Juli, I am from Northern Idaho and am just starting to look into this seriously. You sound a lot like me. My BMI is 37.44, less than the 40 and I am not being medicated for any health problems yet. My blood pressure has been high and my blood sugars have been high. My cholestorol is high and I'm suppose to be on lipitore, but wanted to try diet and exercise first. Sorry I don't have an answer to your question, but I would like to have someone to talk to about the steps in doing this. Thanks...Sharlene

Hi Sue, Congrats on having this surgery. I am three weeks out and have lost 30 pounds. The first week afterward you'll be on jello, broth, sugar free popsicles to keep your pouch quiet. Will you get to meet with a nutritionist? That would be really helpful. Mine gave me quite the regimine to follow. You will also need to take supplements and a protein drink afterwards to feed your body what it needs. Take extra great care of yourself during this time and don't over do it. Hugs, Lori

Hello All, I'm just wondering if you chose to tell your co-workers prior to WLS. I work in a small office with me being the largest by 150lbs. They are nice ladies but I don't want to feel that I need their approval. What did the rest of you do? Kadie

Hi all I am having my gastric bypass and am very frightened. I need some reassurance from my fellow Idaho gals. My real concern is not the surgery itself, but immed after when I have to stay in Boise for 4 days to be close to Dr. Oakley (whom I really like). I mean what kind of food do I buy? When can I take a shower (big concern this one) Any help will be grately appreciated. Sue