I finally have a date!!!

I just found out today that my surgery will be on July 22.  I am so excited!!  I went to my first seminar in May o7 and it has so far been a long bumpy road.  My dr is Dr. DeMaria at Duke. Anyone got any experience with him? I have not met him yet , will meet him on July 11.  My pre-op is July 14. I would love advice on A.what to stock up on and where to get it(like protein stufff) B. what to take to the hospital C.I take percocet for severe arthritis does anyone know if I will still be able to take pain meds or will there be a change? (I know ask the dr but just would like to get an idea from others) and any thing else I need to know. I have Weight Loss Surgery for Dummies Book and another book by a woman named Sharon I think, I can't remember the name of the book right now, my sister has it. She is going to be my support person at the hospital.  Ok thats all for now but I have a feeling I will not just be a lurker anymore but more of a participator. TIA Debbie

Unfortunately, I had to delete this post due to privacy concerns.

I had my Surgery with the Duke Weight Clinic. My doctor was Dana Portiner....all the docs are great. As far as pain medicine...when I got discharged from the hospital I had a RX for pain meds...But when you go and meet him just be sure that you two talk about that. I'm sure that all will be well .Good Luck.  ** I work in the ER dept at Durham Regional...Maybe if I'm working that day I can come and see you on the floor...just to see a face of a fellow weight loss partner is always good and sometimes can be reassuring. ****

Congrads on your date ... My suggestions are go to GNC and check out the protien choices and buy only small amounts as you will get tired of them quick, you can also always find freebies on the web. Your nutritionst should be able to point you in the right direction on your nutrition needs . Take a pillow to the hospital it will be a welcome sight on the ride home and also sometimes hospital pillow are flat ... chap stick in several flavors , non skid slide in house slippers, I took a gown and house coat but never used them the ones the hospital provides was great. Of course cell phone with numbers to call folks ,, I took a couple books etc... I hope your surgery was a easy as mine was, good luck and welcome to the loser bench.. TAKE pictures very often at least twice a week , they will be priceless one day to you , like when you are a slim sexy woman ,,, it also helps us to remember where we were . Allison

A.D. - can you point me to some of the freebies on the web? I've looked and can't find any. I'd like to be able to try some before spending a bunch of money! Thanks!

Congratulation on your surgery date. Wishing you lots of luck and a bright new future.                                    Annie

Congrats on your date!! That is very exciting news!! You will have to talk to your Dr. about liquid or chewable versions of your meds. Like many others, your taste for protein will vary. I had to try 2 different kinds before finding the powder that I could handle. You will def. need chapstick. I took a pillow from home, and pj pants to wear around the hospital while I was walking. I never took anything like magazines or books, I mostly slept or walked. Keep us updated on your progress. Danielle

Congrats on your date!  That is exciting and be sure to remind us a few days before so we can say some prayers for you.   I took a gown and robe to the hospital and didn't even wear them as the hospital gowns were easier as a gown and robe...lol.    I also walked a bunch and then would come back and sleep. Good luck, Pam

Congrats on your surgery date! Definitely do post more and let us know how you are doing.  Good luck with starting your NEW and IMPROVED life!