Nervous.

May 4th is coming up fast. Just so preoccupied about whether everything will be okay, from the actual surgery to recovery and then the daily challenges to stay on track. Having a bit of a food funeral too, like today with corn on the cob and realizing I will not likely have it again for a very long time, but mostly I'm just scared of taking the step, which can't be undone. And of having people put me down for it. Only telling husband, one friend and two bosses. All sworn to secrecy. But I worry about that too.

Everything that seems like a terribly big deal right now (and don't get me wrong, I realize it is) will soon just be life. You'll be on the other side and going about your days and it will all be ok!

You know what's awesome about doing the right thing for yourself? It doesn't matter what anyone else thinks. And, post-op, it definitely won't matter because, hey, it's not like you can go back in time and undo your surgery. Plus you wouldn't want to, since you'll be healthier.

I do recommend adding a great therapist to your toolkit - that'll be able to help you tackle your worries around being judged by other people.

You made the decision to have surgery for a reason. As long as you are happy with your choice, that's all that matters. Nobody else has to live your life for you, so their opinions and judgement don't matter. Unless they've walked in your shoes, they cannot know the pain you've endured to get to this point and make your choice. We can, because we've all been there.

Be excited about the new life you will have after surgery, and

It's normal to be nervous. I'm right there with you. I've only told 4 people as well. My husband had roux en y surgery 10 years ago. It wasn't easy, as he did have complications. He has lost over 100 pounds and is so much healthier now and although it was rough for him he would do it again. He told just our family and his family - his dad proceeded to tell the rest of his family and his brother told some friends - That's why I am telling just my husband, one of my children, one friend and my boss.

My husband is encouraging me to have my surgery. We know that I won't lose the weight without this step. My health is deteriorating because of my weight so it is time! I'm waiting now for insurance approval and hope to have my surgery date set for around June 28.

Good luck and know that we are here for you!

missy

I think its very normal to be feeling this way. I did, and I certainly had some food funerals.

If someone puts you down for this, they have no clue how hard this decision is, plus how hard it really is to do it.

You'll have to learn to ingnore anyone who puts you down for this. Hopefully you have a lot of supportive people. Yes, you may have family members/friends who might not agree with your decision, but its yours to make and noone elses!

Be proud of your decision. Don't ever be ashamed of doing this.

Yes, its permanent, and there will be some tough times after surgery. I'm just over 4 weeks out, and it can be emotional to adjust, but it does get better. And months down the road as your losing weight, you'll probably look back and think back and say what was I so worried about. But you do have to live it first, so I get being nervous and scared.

Just hang in there, and surgery will be done an over before you know it.

Good luck.

I'm trying to maintain an air of normalcy, but I am varying between exhilaration that I am taking a very positive step towards my goals, but fear of pretty much everything. Thank goodness for the kind and reassuring words of others on this forum. I was thinking, it is 2.5 weeks and then, I will be starting all over post surgery... And hopefully getting through the recovery process just fine. I know I'm going to be very afraid to eat, tho. I would be mortified to need to vomit suddenly at work. I guess that kind of strong reaction is only for the first days, right?

I only ever vomited when I ate salmon that was way too dry. It's definitely not a given that you will vomit!

What you are feeling is totally normal.

Everybody is different. Granted I am only 4 1/2 weeks post op, but I have not vomited once. Doesn't mean I won't, but not everyone is throwing up all the time. Think it partially depends on your eating techniques, and granted some people have very sensitive stomachs, and a certain food might not agree with you, which could happen with your stomach as it is now.

I'm not sure how long you will be on just fluids, but in the beginning you will have to see how your sleeve is with taking liquids. Sip slowly and often. I admit, I was expecting to have difficulty drinking, I've heard a lot of people complain there throats hurt, and that it felt really constricted. I felt nothing. I actually could drink normal sips of water a couple days after surgery. Can't rush though, but drinking wasn't as difficult physically as I expected. However in saying that, I am still struggling to get my minimum 6 cups of fluids in. A friend of mine who had the RNY a week behind me can drink 9 to 12 cups of fluid, and I'm like how???

I just started eating my soft foods last Thursday and I was excited about it. I was a tad nervous how it would feel, but so far so good. Haven't had anything disagree with me. When you start eating softer foods, just start out slow, and there's nothing to be afraid of, but I get your feelings about this.

I hope this helps. Any other questions feel free to ask. You will do great.

Take care

Amanda

I'm sure I will have a lot more questions when I am post op and trying to deal with a new eating style. It's very reassuring to hear people speak about getting through with minimal challenges, whether with side effects or acclimatizing to their new food requirements. Whew. Funniest thing, the part I am least worried about is the actual surgery, and this even tho I have a very serious allergy to a common surgical medication. I flagged it all over the place, so I should be fine, but mistakes happen. And surgical mistakes happen too. But that is a breeze compared to what I foresee as life after. I just keep in front of my mind that I want to be better, stronger, more free. And this surgery is an important step.

And, there is always my turquoise St. John dress hanging in the closet, waiting for me to fit into it and look great!