Question:
Anyone have any last minute suggestions to get through the last week pre-surgery?

I am scheduled to have a RNY gastric bypass next week and i am very anxiously awaiting the date! I would love to hear some last minute suggestions of people who are post-op on how to get through this last week? Should I have a "Last Supper" or not? What can i expect first things as I am admitted into the hospital? Any tips on how to get through the first few weeks post op? I would love to hear any suggestions! Thanks a whole bunch!!!    — anne H. (posted on June 18, 1999)

June 18, 1999
YES! Have a last supper! As much milk and sugar as you can get in so your last memory is good, getting bad, getting worse! Then you won't miss 'em! Bring lip gloss to the hospital! It's the first thing you'll want when you wake up!
   — vitalady

June 18, 1999
the last week before surgery can be very hard! Keep your head up and stay positive! GOOD LUCK!
   — Heidi K.

June 18, 1999
I thought I would want a last supper, and that night I was not even hungry, I kind of had already said goodbye to the "old" way of eating. Admitting for me was pretty simple, they just strip you down and put you in a bed. I did not have any IV or med before being wheeled into the operating room. That is kind of freaky watching the operating tech's getting all ready to go and knowing it is you they are going to see the insides of. A sort of calm comes over you and the next thing you know you are waking up. My advise is to not hesitate to tell them if you are having ANY pain. They say it is good to get ahead of it especially at first. Don't think you are crazy if you have doubts about what you have done in the hospital. I had quite a few "what have I done to myself" moments, and remember they pass. I am 15 months post op and my only regret is not having this surgery at 30 instead of 38!!!!
   — JAN C.

June 18, 1999
I'm only 3 weeks post so I really remember that week. I had several last meals, family, one with friends, one drive-thru and one with my husband the night before. I agree with others about waking up, I stayed pretty medicated but was pretty miserable the first few days. But pain was ok with meds. Lip gloss?? not me, ate lot's of ice though. Now I'm all healed and I can't even remember the pain and discomfort. I did wonder a few times. The weight came off really fast the first 2 weeks then slowed a lot. I'm feeling my way through the food now, it takes getting used too, but worth it. Good Luck, let us know how you do.
   — jiggers

June 18, 1999
Dear Anne, This next week will fly for you,IMHO. Get all your housework done;it's so nice to come home to a clean house. Stock your cupboards with foods you'll be eating when you come home.Don't overpack for hospital. Robe,slippers,personal care stuff and some light reading material. One really nice thing that'll help you once home is a wedge for the bed.Also, if anyone offers help those first couple of weeks, take it! And don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it. Best of luck to you .It's the beginning of the rest of your life! Blessings (\O/) Bev.
   — BJ K.

June 19, 1999
I had "last suppers"(breakfasts and lunches, too!) until about 3 days before surgery and then I got nervous about how it would affect the surgery, so I was sort of careful. When I got to the hospital (I had the Fobi Pouch procedure done) I had two IV's put in. They offered me medication if I was nervous. I didn't accept it, but the guy in the next bed did and he was snoring within 10 minutes. Everyone was very, very nice and upbeat, which made it easier for me. My surgeon came and talked to me for a couple of minutes and then they wheeled me into the OR. I had about 2 heart-pounding minutes in there, because that's when I decided to get nervous, but the next thing I remember was my husband coming into my room. Some kind of lip balm would have been nice because my mouth was so dry from the medication, and I too ate a lot of ice chips. I didn't wear my own nightclothes until I could shower.(2 days). My best advice is to get up as soon as possible! The first time is the worst but it gets easier every time thereafter. The more you move, the better you feel. The very best of luck to you, and try very hard not to sweat it. (6 weeks post-op, 45 lbs)
   — patti S.

July 25, 1999
Two days before your surgery, go to one of the nicest restraunts you can afford, and savor every bite. It will be a memory to hold onto. As far as after the surgery, just do as they tell you. Eat and drink, Especially drink water. That is so important. When they say get up and walk, get up and walk. You'll do fine. God Bless you, and Good luck
   — Glenda H.