10 days and counting.....Any last minute suggestions?

Hey Family, I have 10 more days until I am on the losing side . So I just want to know what you did before surgery or what you wish you had done. Or what you suggest not to do before surgery. Inquiring minds want to know.... My surgeron said to not use the week before to binge on things you think you will never eat again what are your thoughts? Michelle

Michelle I took the final week before my surgery to get my mind and body ready for the transition about to take place. I got completely off caffeine, and carbonated beverages. I did not binge, I felt I had done enough of that in the past. I was about to start a new life and I wanted to enter it with a new frame of mind. I committed to myself that I would no longer indulge in self destructive behaviors. I would always maintain a postive attitude about my new life. Since my surgery on May 18, 2004, I have maintained the things I started during the week before my surgery. I have lost 131 lbs since surgery and now weigh 166 with only 26 more to go to be at goal. I hope to reach my goal by my first anniversary. I eat the things I should making sure to get my protein first, my water next and exercise about 2 hours 3 to 4 days a week. I feel great and look forward to actively participating in life. You have to decide for yourself what you are willing to give up on this journey. Good luck in your jouney and may your hospital course be uneventful. Carolyn

Thanks Carolyn, I love your advice congratulations on your success with your weightloss you are doing wonderful. Take care, Michelle

Dear Michelle, I think your surgeon is absolutely correct. Do not binge. After my pre-op appointment with my last official weigh-in, I had ten days before surgery. I ate like it was my last meal over and over. I have a great love affair with food, and I was giving every favorite a fond and lengthy good-bye. I did not weigh again but would bet that I gained at least five pounds. The day of surgery I wanted those five pounds back. You WILL eat those favorite foods again, but in GREAT moderation. Your tastes may also change. I can handle scallops now; before I couldn't! My hubby mourned a bit because of my surgery too. We loved to "experience" new foods...that was a big part of our dates and travels. Well, he is happier now because he gets to finish my meals. It used to drive me crazy if he TRIED to touch my food. Now, I'm happy to share! Truly, Michelle, you will get to eat your favorites again! Trust us!!! Hugs, Becky

Thanks Becky, You always have great words of wisdom. I am glad to know on this journey I will be able to enjoy some of things I have enjoyed in the past. I am going to follow the advice of my surgeon and keep what I do in moderation. I have lost 14lbs so far. So why stop a good thing. Take care. Michelle

Before my surgery I was in a real "tizzy", trying to have everything done, clean and just so-so before I went in the hospital. What I have learned is that it could have waited. It was going to be there when I got home! What I should have done is to relax in preparation for the surgery and spend quality time with my hubby and family. They were just as nervous and worried as I was and I had the house as my outlet. So my advice is to pack your bag, put it by the door and spend quality time with your family. Patti

Great advice, Thanks Patti, I will do just that. My kids have been very attached lately. Michelle

MICHELLE YOU HAVE CHOSEN A GREAT BUNCH OF SURGEONS. LISTEN TO THEM. I HOPE TO SEE YA IN SOME SUPPORT GROUPS IN ATLANTA THEY ARE FUN AND EDUCATIONAL . REMEMBER THIS MICHELLE JUST BECAUSE YOU THINK YOU WONT EAT AGAIN DONT JUST GO EAT IT STARTS TRAINING YOUR MIND. ITS HARD BUT I KNOW YOU CAN DO IT. IM A DUNCAN PATIENT AND WOULD LOVE TO MEET YA AT SUPPORT GROUP SO CHECK US OUT.. DAWN

Hey Dawn I will be at the support group on this Saturday. I appreciate the great advice and I will definitely take heed. I appreciate you taking the time to answer also. Michelle