Last minute TO DO list

WELL ~ The time is almost here!! YAY and YIKES!!! lol
My big day is Wednesday!! I cannot even believe it is here, as a month ago, it just never seemed to be reality. As I sit here with a huge to-do list in front
of me, I was just wondering if maybe I am forgetting anything!! Is it necessary to write letters to your loved ones in case something happens? Did anyone go to this extreme? And what are an Important last minute things that you did or should be done, if you wouldn't mind sharing!!  Also what do i need to make sure I have as far as food staples for the first week? As far as I know, I get to continue with this lovely Optifast diet for 2 weeks post-op, but do i need to purchase protein powder now, to mix in with soups and stuff once i get to that point? WOuld love any pointers :)

I didn't write letters to my loved ones, however I did talk to each of them and let them know how much they meant to me. I sat my husband down and went over where all of our important papers are, what bills get paid when, what doctors our son sees and when, etc. He thought I was crazy, but it gave me peace of mind knowing that he would be prepared in case the unimaginable had happened. As for after surgery stock ups...I had a ton of Crystal Light on hand in different flavors, chicken broth, sugar-free jello and protein bullets. I mix the bullets in with my Crystal Light to help me get in my protein. Good luck with everything. I know you'll do great!!!!!! :) Becky

Hey Jami.... I agree with Becky and almost went the route of writing letters.  I also ordered 24 bullets as they have 42 g of protein in.  It is very difficult to to get to 80 right after surgery and these bullets have been a huge help.   Just google protein bullets and u can order online.    I just drink them right out of the tube. Good luck on your surgery and remember we are all here for you.   You are in my prayers! Take care, Pam

Make sure you have lip balm for the hospital.  It was a life saver.  Have you tried other protein drinks.  I was drinking the diet Slim Fast before surgery and hated it afterwards.  Now I only drink the Atkins Advantage.  I get them at Sam's Club.  I buy my protein from Bariatric Advantage and I love the strawberry flavor.   Good luck and best wishes for a speedy recovery. Barbara

Jami----  I didn't have RNY so I really don't know what you need in the way of supplies..  I do Know that crystal light stock up is a good idea........just wanted to say don't stress too much about what to bring, the most important thing is you.  Good luck- it's gonna' be AOK. Nancy

To let you know Doctor Pender does not want us doing protein powders for very long.  Yes I know than how do we get the protein in????  He believes in changing your eating habits and to keep trying food proteins.  Alot of us had issues with eggs when we first started.  I do take protein bullets every now and than because alot of times I just don't want protein.  If I drink my way there...perfect but this won't be your Doctor.  So don't stalk up on alot now.  He really understands that you just can't get a whole lot down the first few weeks.  Concentrate on alot of fluids though but don't stress it cause it will honestly be hard to get even that down.  Do get sugar free pop sickles and Lugi's does make suger free icees which you'll have to go to Wal Mart to get.  Guarentee you though you won't be too hungry.  It will be more bordom from not having food in your hands.  You will begin to realize how much food played in your life and not for nutrition.  It is such an eye opener.

I agree with Lynn, don't purchase too much protein supplements.  They are expensive and you won't need them long.  I made that mistake, spent lots of $$ and ended up giving most of it away.   The sugar free jello, SF pudding, popcicles and crystal lite are a must.  I also found the little packets of SF Hawaian punch at Foodlion and they are a great way to get the water in if you like them.  I got really burned out on Crystal Lite flavors.  Also, hot tea (decalf) is very good for your new pouch and I found it soothing.  I was cold all the time after surgery so the warm tea helped out there too.