Planning ahead Question??

Hello everyone, I am new to this site. I have my Dr and date set for wls, just waiting for insurance approval. I do have a few questions?? I live alone and Drs do not want me alone for awhile: I need to ask my daughter to come and stay. Can anyone give a time frame for lap recovery? I hope only to take 2-3 weeks off work. Any information you can share would be wonderful Mclaire

Mclaire B, I just had my lap rny on 4/18/05 and was back to work a week later. I guess everyone has their own rate of recovery. If the doc seems to want someone to be there with you to help you out, especially if -god forbid- you fell, or had some other issues post opp, its a good idea. My first couple of days at home I definately needed my hubby to help me about, even to get in and out of the shower!! He was a blessing! Good Luck! blessings, xoxoxoxojenn

Hi Jennifer, Thank you so much for your help. I have been watching the message board for nearly 2 months now , while I have traveled thru this process. I know all of the good people that are here to help. Mclaire

HI Mclaire I must say that I was up and about 3 days after surgery but came home with a silly drain....that was the worst....just weird with an extra appendage....You will be up and about with no problem as I was back at work and driving within 10 days post....just remember that you will be tired and will probably sleep most of the first few days home....have some easy meals.......yougert, sugar free jello, broth, and things to drink....you will be wonderful and it is an incredible journey.......I'd do it again in a parking lot !! Best wishes and God Bless.......Patti Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.

HI Pattie, Wow, 10 whole days with out driving, that will be tough I am not sure I could do this in a parking lot, though, lol. Not a big fan of yougert, but I have started on the protein shakes, just to get use to the taste I feel all of you have been so brave to share your journey. To date my office is not aware I will be " unavailable" for a few weeks. I was waiting for the approval from the Ins company. If all goes well: My date will be June 8. I will keep you in mind as my date gets closer. Mclaire

Mclaire, I think it depends on you and how well you do with taking care of yourself now.. Obviously, you live alone now so you'll likely be okay.. but you may need someone available to you on a contingent basis. I live alone and was able to take care of myself as soon as I was out of the hospital. I did have friends who checked on me frequently but I basically cared for myself (except for when Melissa came over and helped me clean up in my apartment! I LOVE THAT GIRL!) My time off work was 3wks.. I could have gone back 1/2 time at 2wks, but I waited and I'm glad I did. It's so easy to get exhausted. Just take it a day at a time, listen closely to your body and always have a contingency plan. Also, don't be afraid to call your surgeon's office if you aren't sure about something. They are there to help and you're never a bother! Good luck!! Stef Lap RNY 11/12/04 390 -> 304 -> 175

Gypsy, Your words of encouragement are wonderful. I hope to only be gone 2 weeks, but will take longer if needed. Working 1/2 days might help me too, that is a good idea for the 3 rd week. How did your co workers respond to you after your return? Thank you, Mclaire

My co-workers have been great. Sometimes I read horror stories and I thank God to have been so lucky. Those that knew about it beforehand were genuinely considerate and would check on me during the day.. those that found out afterwards were inquisitive and always very respectful. Maybe they talk behind my back, but they're pretty good at keeping it from me because I never hear anything negative. I get a lot of support from the people I work with. My best advice is don't pu**** I scheduled three weeks with the understanding it may take more.. but it didn't. I didn't want to over-do it so I waited the full three and by the time I was able to go back, I was SO READY.. I had some serious cabin fever!! Just listen to what your body tells you. It'll be doing a lot of talking!! Stef

. Hi Mclaire I live alone, and after I was released from the hospital, I spent a few days at my Dad's. I really didn't need any help - but it was nice having someone around. I went in the hosp on a Wednesday, got out Saturday afternoon, stayed at my Dad's until Tuesday afternoon. Check out my profile, as I've kept a pretty good record of my journey from start until now. Good luck!!!! Dayna 310/284/110

Hello Dayna, I read your Journey, your experience will be very helpful. I do have my doubts, now and again. But when I read all these great statements , I know I am doing the right thing. Thank you for your help. Mclaire