Help me solve the mystery please?!!

Hi all, I am scheduled for surgery on June 13th. I will be having laparoscopic RNY at Hackensack hospital. Here is my question. Many people I have spoken to, including my regular doctor, have said that "your whole life is going to change" after this surgery. While I completely accept the dietary changes and know the challenges and potential pitfalls there, I know there is something beyond that trying to be conveyed. Am I just crazy? What am I missing? The other thing is, I read someone asking where to get the "magic bullet". Ok, that's a new one for me. Unless they are trying to shoot a vampire, I don't know what they are talking about. I am a little bit embarrassed because I have been so proud of how informed I am! Well, ok, I guess I don't know as much as I thought. Anyone got any thoughts on this? I would be very greatful if you could clear this up! Finally, I just want to wish everyone good luck. If you are in the area, please email me and maybe we can compare notes! Ok, take good care now! Rossana

When people tell you how much your life will change (aside from the nutritional aspects), they probably mean that you will have more energy and confidence and - sad as it is - people will treat you better when you lose weight. I'm only 2 1/2 weeks out, so I haven't gotten there yet, but it's nice to know I'm on the way! The Magic Bullet is a little blender that many of us love to make protein shakes and puree our foods while we're in that stage. You can get it many places. I got mine at Walgreens.com for $59.99 with free shipping. If you do find a better price online, you'll probably pay more for shipping. I haven't looked in the stores though, so you may find a better deal out there. I congratulate you on becoming as informed as possible prior to surgery. I did the same and while I'm finding myself very informed, everyone is different and my experiences are unique, as yours will be. Go in informed and enjoy the ride, it will be awesome! Best of luck to you! Joe

Rossana, I am pre op so please take my information with a grain of salt, becuase I have yet to experience the "change". However I have read way too many books on the subject. From what I can understand, EVERYTHING changes. Your carrer may change, you may get a promotion that you were overlooked before because of your weight, or you may get a job that you couldn't before. Other people will look at you differently too, & therefore treat you differently. The door will be opened for you more often. If you are in a relationship, that may change. I have heard that if your relationship was rocky before surgery than it is doomed after & if it was good before than it is wonderful after. You will change too. You will be proud of yourself & that will show to the world . You will be more confident therefore more willing to try things you have never done before and meet people you wouldn't have if your were still heavy. I can go on & on, but imagine something in your life today & really think about doing that afterwards. Everything changes. As far as potential pitfalls, that is still questionable. Although WLS has been around for many many years, there have been no long term studies on the patients. No one really knows how this will effect us in 10-15or even 20 years from now. I know that for myself that I am willing to take the chance since I wont live that long with out it. Make sure you take your vitamins. THAT is VERY important. Never be embarrassed to ask a question. You would be unwise if you didn't and there are too many people going into this blind! GOOD LUCK & TAKE CARE! Angel

Your life *will* change in a lot of ways. Good, bad...it's all there. Here's an article on one change you might not have considered: http://newyorkmetro.com/nymetro/health/features/11958/ Good luck - I have to say my changes so far at 6 months have all been for the better. P~

Thanks so much for that article. My doctor recommended I read it, and I didn't know where to find it. Thanks VERY much! I am a little bit clearer about what to expect. I think that most of all, it's a matter of getting there and being armed. I mean, with a support group, a supportive spouce, lots of info and a positive attitude. None of us knows what we are going to go through in advance, but at least if we are slightly clued in, we can be hopeful and ready! thanks for caring enough to send the info on! I really appreciate it! Rossana