Question:
Got any tips or hints for pre-op to prepare the mind and emotions?

I just got the date today [Dec 18th] and since it's so soon, I was wondering is there are any tips or hints that you have that will help to keep my emotions in control and my mind positive, esp since I tend to see the negatives in most things easier than the positives. Thanks in advance.    — blank first name B. (posted on December 3, 2001)

December 3, 2001
Nikki I would not get to fustrated with the amount of time before surgery. I wish I really would of known how epensive sugarfree foods are :). Start writing in a journal about your feelings and expectations, after surgery u can see how funny u are and how different it will be when u cross over. Dont go crazy!! Learn how to deal with the emotions of how some things will change. Start for sure learning how to slip water slow, eat slow. I am post of as of Nov 14 and did not have long to wait. I miss some foods but I also dont miss the weight that I have lost so its kind of a win lose situation. But I can tell you this no matter how strong you are papmer yourself as much as u can. And get ready to walk and breath and walk and drink and sleep :) Good luck see ya on the otherside.
   — kris71872

December 3, 2001
Opps sorry that is to sip your water!!! and I am post op as of nov 14th.
   — kris71872

December 3, 2001
At the suggestion of another recent post-op, I purchased several "healing" CD's -- especially from Dr. Andrew Weil. I listened to them constantly prior to surgery and would fall asleep to one every night. I even took my CD Walkman into surgery with me and listened to it throughout the surgery. I then continued to listen to them during my hospital stay and after I got home. I found that I was very calm prior to my surgery and I had a wonderful recovery. I really thought I would cry as they rolled me away from my family for surgery, but I just listened to the CD's and was in the "zone" according to the nursing staff.
   — Denise C.

December 3, 2001
Make a nice list of goals for post op. Having a baby, going to disney, playing softball, whatever turns you on. Try to spend at least a few minutes a day visualizing your improved life. Pre op espically when your date gets close is a tough time for you and your loved ones. With Jens surgery monday I KNOW how tough it is! But be assured it WELL WORTH the hassle and soon you too will be a healthier slimmer post op.
   — bob-haller

December 4, 2001
One really big mistake I made, was I went out and bought tons of sugar-free jello's, puddings, drinks, shakes, and all sorts of foods like broth and such, so I wouldnt have to go shopping for awhile post op. Well that was such a mistake. My taste buds changed and things I use to love I couldnt stand. And things I would have never eaten or drank, I craved. I had to get rid of so many items that I just couldnt stand anymore. So I would advise not to stock up too much on foods & drinks. Wait till post op and listen to your body as to what it craves. I've been craving all kinds of fruits and sooo thirsty for iced tea's and orange juices. My cravings for sweets completely disapeared. It seems I crave whats my body lacks, like certain vitamins & minerals. Hope this helps.
   — Karla K.