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OK .... so the light at the tonnel is in sight......I know I'm going to have surgery at least by April if not sooner...so I have made my self start doing all the things I need to do ..not drink with meals  (didnt relise how hard that is)  ...no sugar...watch caloric intake...protein first...anything else?........  I want to start a gym......... I haven't exercised in that way in years...i do lap swim but lately haven't done that consistent lately....my question is i want to join a gym that will help me gain strength and muscle and that  can help me know what not to do ,so as not to hurt my back  (i  have lots of low back pain)...has anyone used Duke health and fitness or the wellness center at UNC.? or do you have any other suggestions?..also how long after surgery until i can do more than just walk?.........one more question......Has anyone had any luck getting their insurance to pay for a exercise center after surgery?..... probably a goofy question since it is so hard to get them to pay for surgery but just wondered     LOL....thanks for any input i can get .............. ~Mary~

Hey Mary, Congrats on your surgery around the corner.  I had mine done by Dr. DeMaria at Duke WLS.  I don't know about the exercise facilities but I was told by my doctor not to do any lifting more than 10 pounds for 4-6 weeks.  You will probably only feel like walking for the first week.  You sound like you are on the right track.   Amanda 261.5 (surgery)/146 (current)

You really sound like you are on the right track.   I have 4 more days til my surgery and am getting so excited....just want it over with!   You may want to try liquid protein drinks to see which one you like as from what i have heard, most docs require it at least a few weeks before surgery.  I have been drinking Carnation Instant Breakfast sugar free but the only flavor i have been able to find is chocolate and while i never thought i'd say this...i am beginning to hate chocolate.  One gal on here said you can order variety packs online as they come in french vanilla and strawberry.   My biggest concern was 80 to 90 g of protein per day after the surgery.  I stomach is only 1/2 a cup..how do u get in that much.  Found a gal here who says she does the protein bullets which are 42 g each so i have ordered a few dozen of those.   Whatever works and this place has been a wonderful resource with an awesome group of people. Take care Mary and good luck! Pam

Hey congrats on your surgery I hope you do well and achieve all the things you want. Sorry I cant offer any insight into you post but I just had to tell you I love LOVE your avatar pic. That is great. Who knew Tinkerbell could have a big butt like the rest of us!!! Made my day ... TY

It's me I'm the gal and I just googled carnation instant breakfast and found the sugar free variety pack . I used to buy it when we lived in Connecticut but haven't found it here. I got three cases of it asit seems to be the only liquid protein I cans tand other then unjury chicken soup and that must be mixed in with 2 cups of Goya Chicken Bullion.

I ordered SF Vanilla and Variety packs of CIB from Amazon.  I had to get multiple boxes and have several of each left I won't be needing.  If interested in buying them at cost, just email or private message me and they'll be on the way to your house. [email protected] 

Hi Mary, I have been a member at both UNC wellness and Duke center of living. They are both great places and the staff was very good and helpful. The equipment in both places is top grade. I live in Fearrington and they opened a Duke center of living a few years ago. I no longer go there mainly because I found that I can get a good workout by walking now and comming home and riding my bike plus money can be an issue also. On Thursday and Tuesday if time allows I enjoy going to CH for deep water arobics. Some people start out by doing water walking it is easy on the joints.                                  Annie 

I'd suggest doing cardio exercises and blowing up balloons (i know it sounds weird) but your lungs will thank you for it post-op.

Thank-you ALL for the encouragement,info. and help....~mary~