new here

Hi all, My name is Debbie.I am currently enrolled in the wl progam at Duke. I am now in med/surg review. I started this process May 07 by attending my first seminar. So far it has been a long journey with every test imaginable. I even had to have a heart cath. I have passed all my tests no problems. I have been reading a lot about having to do a liquid diet before surgery. I was wondering if maybe I should get a head start on that. I thought maybe I would wait until I got insurance clearance(I have medicaid) and when they call me for my dr. appt I could get started then on the liquid diet to maybe speed up the process. Any advice would be appreciated. My BMi is 68 so I feel pretty sure they will have me try to lose some before surgery. I have been "lurking" on these boards for some time now and now I am ready to start meeting and getting acquainted with some friends. I will start to work on my profile.  hoping to make some new friends Debbie

Hi Debbie,  and Welcome to the NC Board.   I wish you a lot of luck on your Journey to becoming a LOOSER!

hello Debbie, welcome!  You've come to the right place for friendship, support and great information.  Congrats on getting this far in the process.   As far as trying to lose some weight now, that would be very good.  First it will help the docs during surgery and you'll be lower risk.  Second it shows the docs that you are serious and can follow the program.  So, if you can try to start cutting back, maybe do some Slim Fast or cut out bad carbs and begin exercising a little every day.  you'll be surprised how happy it will make your surgeon to know that you've taken it upon yourself to get a head start.  Good luck! 

Hello Debbie, I am with the Duke program also. I think we are close to the same point in the program. I just came out of review....welcome..~Mary~

Debbie,

I'm delighted that you've decided to 'join' us! Please let me extend a warm welcome to you. I don't know if you attend any of the Duke support group meetings at DRH, but if so, please do come up and say hello. I'd love to meet you. I also hold a monthly meeting on the 3rd Sat of the month if you would ever like to join us, you are most welcome.

Re: the liquid diet. Contact Patrick and ask him what he thinks will be best. You don't want to do anything unsupervised, but maybe there is something that he'd like you to do. Often, if they want you to do something they will ask you to.

I'm looking forward to reading your profile and getting to know you.

Again, welcome!

Barb

Welcome Debbie..... This place has been a wonderful source of support and information.   Prior to my gastric bypass i was on Carnation Instant Breakfast for 2 weeks and lost 14 lbs.  You may want to talk to your PCP about maybe doing liquid for breakfast and lunch and doing a low fat dinner such as a large salad with grilled chicken.   I know if you can get some wt off ahead of time, the surgery will be much easier.   Take care, welcome and good luck!  We are here for you! Pam

Welcome to the NC  Board.  You are on your way to a new you.  Can't wait to see your journey and learn more about you.  Congratulations on your journey.  Good Luck! Keep us posted and come back often. Connie

Welcome Deb and good luck on the rest of your journey. I have found some wonderful friends here. I'm sure you'll find the same. There are much more qualified veterans to help with any questions you may have but if there's anything I can help you with, just ask.  Happy trails, my friend, Mare

Welcome to the NC boards and best of luck to you in your journey!!

Darcie

Nice to meet ya!  I started my journey around the same time as you did, last year. I just had surgery...two weeks ago tomorrow! It has been a long road but oh so worth it!  Your time is near! Getting started by maybe substituting a meal with a shake could get you going. Whatever you do now will only help you in the long run. Best wishes!