1 more day~ and lots of questions!

Tomorrow is the big day! I am doing the clear liquids today at work, I  have told everyone if they catch me chewing on my ankles to leave me alon LOL  as IF i could reach my ankles to my mouth So, i have only lost 12 lbs on Optifast...wtf is up with that? I have been stuck at 11 for a WEEK! And have not deviated once. Is this a sign of things to come? Also, what do I pack for the Hospital? I meant to ask when I went to my preassessment at Hillcrest, but forgot after I was bombarded with tons of other information. Do I pack my own gown? What about houseshoes? I know to bring my deodorant, toothpaste/brush, chapstick and moisturizer. Any other suggestions?   Someone mentioned a pillow from home is nice. One more day, I cant believe it!

You may want houseshoes and a robe to walk the halls in, if you bring a gown, bring one that buttons or zips down the front so they can get to your drain and stuff. Dr. Bour does not allow Chapstick or ANYTHING even touching your mouth until after you get the leak test done.  A ponytail holder or something for your hair to get it out of the way would be good. Really, even though I could not WAIT to get home, the stay wasn't really all that long and I spent most of the time sleeping (if I wasn't trying to walk...) REMEMBER, if you end up having that pain in your arm and chest after the surgery like I did, alot of it is from plain ole gas.  The more you walk, the better you will feel.  We will be thinking about you!

Hey Melissa ... I wanted to send you my very best wishes for your day tomorrow ... I can feel your excitement all the way over here!  I'm really happy for you.  I hated the pillows at Hillcrest ... they have a soft plastic covering (under the cotton pillowcase) which made me SO HOT.  I finally wised up and had my husband bring one from home, and I felt much cooler after that. You won't need much else, just something to wear on your feet while you walk the halls.  If you don't have a robe, you can just wear a 2nd hospital gown backwards, and that'll cover what needs to be covered.  I never got around to wearing one of my own gowns ... the drain and the IV are in the way.  And besides ... hopefully you'll be back home again on Friday morning, and on your way to feeling lots better! Good luck, I'll be thinking about you tomorrow!

I think that Kathy and Dawn hit all the basics of things needed. I just wanted to tell you that you are in for the ride of your life!! Surgery is always....well, surgery. But enjoy every moment during the early days. Do EVERYTHING that Dr. Bour tells you to do. And as soon as you are able, EXERCISE!! That is going to be the key to your success. I'll keep you in my prayers tomorrow!!

Hugs,
Dianne

  I am so happy for you.  That is awesome.  I remember the day before surgery and I was starving.  I think I must have eaten about 2 boxes of SF popsicles.  Don't worry about ONLY losing 12 lbs on optifast.  I only lost 7.  No biggie.  You body will be totally different after the surgery and you will lose weight.  Exercise is the one thing I regret not doing soon enough but now I try to go at least 3 times per week.  I think the ladie**** about everything you need to pack.  I know that I couldn't wait to brush my teeth.  I used the things that the hospital provided since I figured my insurance was probably paying a good $100 bucks for those sample size tolietries.  I'll be thinking about you tomorrow. Hang in there.  See you on the losing side! Rachel

Hi there!  I wanted to wish you the best also, and also say.... I wanted my hairbrush so bad.  I dont know about you but when I am in bed for a while it always feels so good to have my hair brushed, or to bru**** myself.   It is like heaven!   So.... that is just an idea.  Also, maybe some mindless magazines.  I dont know if you sleep well, I dont so if you are one to stay awake you might like some reading material and a phone card if you are going to be making any calls. best of luck to you, and you will be fine!  It was the BEST decision! hugs, Jill :)

Melissa.. I know how excited you must be for tomorrow!! I wish you nothing but the best!! We're holding a spot for you on the loser's couch!!!  God Bless -

Wow, it just seems like yesterday you were posting on here for the first time and now we are brushing off a spot on the losers bench for you. I will always remember your surgery date because it is my birthday, and now it will be your second birthday. So HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! As far as what to take to the hospital, take as little as possible, you probably won't feel like doing much the first day after surgery. I had plans to put on makeup, play on my computer,  do crosswords and  all  those plans went out the window, lol. I wore the hospital gowns for the most part. I did take my own pj's but........the bout with diarreah put an end to wearing them, ewwwww. I did take my own pillow and a fleece throw that my best friend made for me, of course it was cooler weather in October than it is now, but it was nice having  something from home to cuddle with. I had a list of phone numbers for my husband so he could call people to let them know I was OK and that was a good thing since I was in neverland for a while and don't even remember talking to anyone the first two days ( the drugs they use are wonderful ). I wish you the best tomorrow and please know that my thoughts and prayers will be with you. Hugs and best wishes! Mary

Best Of Luck!!!! I will be praying for you! All will be well. Keep us posted and until then I am rooting for you from the sidelines!!!!

Tomorrow is the day!!!!  I will be thinking about you.  You are in good hands....Dr. B is the BEST!!!!!! Can't wait to see you in postop!!!!!