I am now officially a LOSER.....woohoo!!
He took my drain tubes out (ouch!!) on Thursday and let me come home but this is the first day I have actually felt like posting or doing much of anything. This surgery really kicked my butt. I was like "what on earth was I thinking doing this to myself?" Now things are going smoother and the pain is getting better and I feel like I am on my way to a new and healthier Melissa. Everyday is a challenge but I am managing to get in 64oz of fluid and 60 grams of protein. At this stage my protein actually counts toward my fluid intake so I could count my protein shakes as fluid but I'm not. I feel like I am doing good in that area so I had to brag on myself a little...lol. I am doing my walking and my breathing exercises like I should.
The surgery was more intense that Dr. Olsen anticipated and he had to make 2 more incisions while working 5 1/2 hours on me. He was so determined to do it lap and I am so thankful that he could. I've also come to find out his bedside manners are wonderful and he seems to really care about how I am feeling and wants me to be a success. I am so thankful that God led him to me as my surgeon.
I could feel all your prayers and believe it or not I was not even nervous before they gave me the "good feeling" medicine. I just knew that everything was going to be fine. The surgery team there made me feel so at ease about the whole thing too. The nurses and staff were very excellent and caring.
I had two angels to come and see me while in the hospital. Paula and Sheila. Paula was such a dear and stayed in touch with my husband throughout the whole process and of course posted updates for me which I just finished reading (thank you Paula) along with coming to see me and bringing me a pretty card and a cute purple teddy bear to hold on my tummy while coughing. This was a lifesaver when I got strangled on my water. I don't remember much about Paula being there because like she said I felt like I had been hit by a truck but I just wanted to let you guys in on what she's been up to. Sheila, my other angel, came by and again I couldn't tell you much about seeing her as well. Those darn drugs are good..lol. She brought me a cute card and beautiful candle holder with butterflies on it. I keep it lit all the time. I am so thankful for these two wonderful caring people and wanted to share with you what they have done for me. Also please keep Sheila in your prayers.
I guess I have rambled on long enough but I just wanted to thank everyone for their prayers and support and helping me get to the losers bench that Scott made for me. Thanks Scott!!!
((hugs))
Melissa
Before...... Surgery...... Post-op.....
I even grew hair in honor of your surgery! 
Kathy Newton
Melissa, I am so happy for you and so proud you are doing well. If you have any questions, remember I have a band too. Every day is a learning experience for me. I have had a virus, where I completely lost my voice. I was so afraid to get sick. But, I am almost well now. Guess a lot of my fear was not needed. hehe Right now I am able to eat about anything. Lettuce is not good yet. I tried it once. It tasted like some weed. It was weird. The nurse told me to wait a while on lettuce. I have chewed chewed chewed till the favor is gone...lol. However, that paid off, because I have not gotten choked. Drink till your urine is clear every day. I get my first fill on Thursday. I can't wait, cuz lately I am feeling hungry too much. I LOVE MY BAND! huggs you and congrats on being a loser!!
