Post Op Purchases

Hello All!

I try and I am trying to remain positive through this process.  But my surgery is scheduled for Nov. 18th and I have begun to purchase items I will need post op.  My dilemma is that I have not received my insurance approval yet.  Deep in my heart I know they are going to approve me but you know human nature, in the back of my mind, Im thinking "what if".

I've spent a good bit of money getting protein powders, protein bullets, tools/utensils, and other things....I just want to be sure that Im doing the right thing before I purchase the rest of my post op items.

Insurance info and approval completely aside....

STOP BUYING FULL SIZE CONTAINERS OF ANYTHING.  Your tastes will probably change post op.  And a protein shake you love now you might absolutely loathe after surgery.  Hec**** pops you like now might have an awful taste to them post op.  Try to get sample packets to get you through the first week.  Then, when you find something you like, go ahead and buy it then.  GNC has samples and I believe www.allthewhey.com has a sample variety pack for about $9.  It's been awhile since I've ordered protein powder - so I may be off on that one.

I understand your concern - and also the need to feel "ready" for this.  But the reality is that you probably won't need a whole bunch of stuff for right after surgery - may not be getting all your protein in right away either (although you should give it your best shot).

You could buy a few cans of low sodium beef and/or chicken broth.  You can always use that in recipies if you don't like it plain after surgery or if things happen with the insurance (which I don't even want to say because we know how hard you have worked to get to this point)

Good luck!

Pam

Congrats on making the WLS choice to get healthier.  I bow to Pam who is to me the GURU.  :0)Keep what you've got but don't get much else.  Sugar free puddings and pops.  That's it.  I waited and I didn't regret it.  Of course it was VERY difficult to do that as I desparately wanted to be "ready" and prepared.  Just remember that you can pick up whatever you need (or someone can run out for you in your family) after - you'll do fine.  It's a crazy time emotionally.  Hang in there.  Here some things (in my humble opinion) that you can do to prepare.  Start focusing on the protein in the meals that you're eating now.  Eat it first.  Eat smaller amounts.  Eat slowly.  Cut everything up into small pieces.  This is a great time to start TRAINING yourself with the habits that will now be with you for a lifetime after the surgery.  Don't drink liquids before your meals (15-30 after you drink you can eat).  Don't drink AFTER you eat (I wait 1 hour, but 45 min. is fine).  Start structuring your liquids to take in AT LEAST 64 ounces a day.  Keep track of it in a log, journal or something.  These are all habits that you NEED after the surgery but can get used to now to "prepare and get ready."  Just my opinion and thoughts though!  We're here for you on these boards, I wouldn't have made it without the support, kindness and sharing that I've found here.

Guru?  Nahh  Just an OH obsessed person who soaked up all the wonderful info like a sponge from all these wonderful people when I was a pre op.  I said I always wanted to remember the beginning and what it was like and where I came from - so continually passing on that info helps in achieving that goal.

Thanks for the compliment - you made me blush.

Pam 

To me you are and it's all about me.  LOL.  And I'm always right. LOL.  But anyway, like you said, you soaked it up but also, AND you did it.  Don't ever forget that. Hearing is one thing but taking action is another.  You've lived it and it shows in all that you post, in all your pictures and in all the support you offer others on this board.  Makes you Guru.  To me anyway.  Thanks for being a living, breathing, successing model to this newbie.

k

Keri nailed almost everything you needed to know for prep on the head - she is one smart cookie and has been following the program awesomely!!

Her advice is well worth taking to heart!

Pam

You've received good advice, so I just want to say, good luck and start practicing the habits you will need for post-op now, as outlined in the posts you already received! 

We'll be here to welcome you to the Loser's Bench, where there's always room for just one more!

Hugs, Laureen