preparing for gastric sleeve

I have been trying to get insurance to pay for me to have a bariatric surgery since 2004.  This January I had my doctor recommend me again, but once again I had the same issue of insurance and not being able to afford it.  After that I gave up on the idea...and then I started having major health issues and had totally forgotten about it.  I was just focusing on trying to get better and was going through millions of tests...just to find nothing.  Well on Wednesday (6/10) I get an email from the doctor's office and we found out that since I have had all the other problems that insurance is going to cover almost everything...and I can afford the rest!

All of this is great news and I am very excited (and nervous)!  They have set my surgery for 7/6...which is way sooner than I could have imagined!!!!  I am just a bit overwhelmed and I don't feel that I am as mentality prepared as I should be!  I know that I am so lucky to have it all happening so fast...I feel like I have waited 11 years and now that it is happening it is so fast!!!  I've done plenty of research and I know what I am getting into, but I just don't feel prepared for all of it!

Anyone that has had surgery or about to have surgery...please help me.  How did you or how are you preparing both mentally and with preparing your house?  I start my liquid diet this Tuesday and I have only had a week to come to the realization that this is for real going to happen!!! 

I don't want anyone to think that I am ungrateful, because I am sooo thankful....just still in shock and I know I have to get over my shock...NOW!!!  

Any advice on any aspect of the process would be helpful!!!  Thanks in advance!

You've wanted surgery since 2004.  I think you're ready but are reacting to the reality and your surgery is only a few weeks away.

Make a list of why you've wanted surgery all these years - physically and emotionally.  I think this will be helpful during those freak-out (lol) times of "THIS IS REALLY HAPPENING!"  Keep the list nearby so you can add to it and refer to it.  

Congratulations on your upcoming surgery.  Even more than ever before, stay on OH to read posts, post yourself and reply to other members.  This gave me lots of support and continues to so I can stay on track.

Thank you for the advice!  And yes...I am kinda having freak out moments!  

Also...what are some things that I can do to physically get prepared....food, clothes, and anything else?

Try using the search button in the top rt hand corner, you'll get some ideas from other posters since this question has likely been asked b4. There was also a list of links that the moderators sometimes posts about tips & what to expect etc.

I'd start with clearing out the high carb items in your house & stock up with foods approved by your nutritionist/dr so that you don't have to start shopping after surgery.

Take measurements & pictures so you can see where you started & how you progress.

Don't go nuts on buying tubs of protein powders, your tastes might change after surgery. You can like something now & later can't stand the taste after surgery. Buy sample packs. Find out what your vitamin requirements will be. Get in the habit of logging & measuring everything & writing it down or putting it in an app like my fitness pal.

Run your errands b4 surgery, stuff like laundry & cleaning. You want as little to do after surgery, cuz you'll likely be tired & will have to concentrate on getting your water & protein in & walking around to get that gas out.

Set up your support system. It's easy to forget about the mental process while concentrating on the physical one.

Don't go nuts on clothes, you'll be wasting your money, get familiar with thrift shops or get your clothes taken in.

& Finally breathe!, take a step back, calm down. You're in for one hell of a ride! 

Good luck on your weight loss journey!

Thank you so much!

Just wanted to let you know if you go up to the top where it says forums you will see one for people that had the sleeve. You can always post there as well. Good luck with everything.

1st I want to say 'congratulations!'

I had a similar journey where I began researching WLS - no insurance for many years & just figured I'd lose the weight myself (HAHA!!!)

Fast forward...cancer, sleep apnea, heart problems & HBP....now I have no choice.!

My insurance requires 6 months nutrition classes prior to surgery so I am 4 months into pre-op. I could see freaking out if the process went any quicker due to all the medical appts. I had to do plus really making an effort to change my eating habits BEFORE surgery. I can definitely understand freaking out in your case, but I have read over & over EVERYONE is nervous as their date gets close.

You've got some awesome tips above...just take deep breaths & keep it moving. I know it will be one of the best decisions I've made in my life!

Thank you!  Yeah...it was just such a surprise!  A pleasant one, but still a shocker!  I am trying to get everything in order and ready, but I think the hardest part is realizing that my life is about to totally change and I have less than a month to prepare!  LOL....I am ready...just nervous and it is nice to know that everyone gets nervous.  

I'm in the same boat I have 2 more doctor visits and then I will be scheduled for my surgery I've done all of the medical work up and I'm excited because I have several medical conditions that may be eliminated once I  have the surgery.