just curious...are you a preop or postop?

hey everyone...I was just wondering what stages everyone is at here. obviously I'm a preop. just thought it would be nice to know for me who's who here. I don't know how many newbies there are, but it would help this newbie out!  :)  any info/tips on how you've made it as far as you have would be nice too if you wanted to share. like if you're preop how you're handling the testing and waiting, if you're a recent post op how you're doing, post op for years how you've maintained, etc.

Great post!

I'm 18 1/2 mos post op.  High weight 235, maintaining between 128-132.

How?  In all actuality - staying REAL close to this board!  Due to my work schedule I don't get to the meetings as often as I would like, but posting here keeps me accountable.  I am constantly reminded that the tool is just that - a tool - and I need to work it in order for it to work for me.  Do I have days where I make bad choices?  Absolutely.  And I understand that I will not be perfect, however, I must be willing to own up to my own faults when I do make those choices.

Don't be afraid to ask for help - that's something I've learned.  This forum is a great place to form tight friendships like a family.  And your friends will be here with a shoulder to cry on, an ear to listen to, and kick in the arse when needed.  Sometimes the replies seem a little harsh and may not be what you want to hear - but what you NEED to hear.

The "menu" that people post M-F is espcially helpful to me - I get different ideas as to what to eat or what not.  And Liz's cooking group is a GREAT place for new, healthy, reworked "classics".

I'm sure you will do great!

Pam

congrats on maintaining! I'm glad the forum here is such a big help. I hope to make it to the one support group I know of in my area, but one support group a month doesn't seem like enough to me. I'll really have to start paying attention to the food/menu threads. I need all the ideas I can get! I'm not too creative in the kitchen.

Post-op by almost 2 weeks and doing great!!

thanks for the reply! glad to hear you're doing well!

Postop about 2-1/2 weeks and am feeling WONDERFUL.  More energy, loving how my new body is starting to feel, and having no problems managing the food.  No hunger, no pain.

Just as a hint, for most of us you can tell by looking at the info under our picture... has our surgery date, surgeon (in most cases), and procedure.  

Karen

wow...that's awesome that you have more energy and are feeling a difference already. hopefully I'll do as well. thanks for the info.

I am pre op.  I have my first consultation with Dr. Petrick at Geisinger on the 26th of May.  I have completed the six month pre op requirement at Geisinger.  I am faithfully attending the twice monthly support groups.  These groups and this board have been extremely helpful to me.  I don't post often but I check things out everyday.  What I am finding most helpful is menu ideas for after surgery.  I have a whole notebook full of things that I am trying.  Also tips on how to handle things like post op depression, head hunger, ect.  I am so looking forward to joining these lovely people on the losers bench. 
Kathy K

oh shoot! one thing I didn't think of was writing down recipes and menu ideas during this time. at least I still have time. that's a great idea!

I just posted a recipie for chocolate cheesecake mousse that is sf and packed with protein....

Also...pre op....please please PLEASE take your measurements.  There will be times that the scale does not move which so incredibly frustrating...up to 4 weeks at a time...but you will change measurements because you are replacing fat with muscles which takes up less space.  They come in handy when you want to throw the scale out the window and are ready to scream.