Question:
I am BACK

Well it wasn't as easy as everyone says it is. The 5 1/2 days I was in the hospital were not easy for me. However, I am back at work after having surgery on the 18th of Feb. I want to say thanks to my Angel here on earth, Julie. She was so wonderful. She called everyday and came to see me and I know it was not easy for her. God will have a special place for her. I would also like to thank Laura P. Carol Ford and Gina. Your prayers, notes and humor kept me going. Thank you all for your support. No one talks about the gas and the walking you have to do to get the organs working again. I would not go back now that it is done and I am getting better, but, I wish I had known ahead of time about some of the discomfort. We do not like to talk about the bodily functions, but, believe me you should know about the gas. You must get up and walk, walk, walk after surgery. Is anyone else having problems with eating and it causing pain. My doctor said I could eat anything as long as I chewed it well. However, I am not doing well with meats. Is anyone else having this problem. I am existing now mainly on protien shakes and soft foods. I am keeping off the meats hoping this will eventually go away. Other than that I am doing great. God bless you all and Julie, Laura P., Carol Ford, and Gina and good luck. Jen    — Jen L. (posted on March 6, 2000)

March 6, 2000
Hi Jen! Who told you it would be easy? They should be shot! (LOL! just kidding folks, put those flame throwers away!) There is nothing easy about this surgery, whether it's lap or open. I'm so happy to hear that you are feeling better now. How much weight have you lost? God bless! Jaye
   — Jaye C.

March 6, 2000
Hi Jen, Glad to hear that your surgery went well and that you are out of the hospital. I am 3 months post-op and experienced horrible gas pains. Iv'e seen this being discussed in the chat room numerous times. Sorry you weren't prorperly informed prior to surgery but, I can tell you that the pain does go away. As for the meat I still can't digest beef that well. Even if I chew well. I do better with ground beef and lamb chops. Anything that is really soft. As the time goes by you will be able to incorporate more types of foods into your diet. There were things that I couldn't digest well in the beginning and it got easier over time. Best of luck with everything.
   — Jodie R.

March 6, 2000
Twenty pounds, so far, gone forever.
   — Jen L.