5/27/08 -- It's hard to believe it's nearly here. Surgery will be Friday morning. Anxiety is pretty tough so far this week. Bag is packed for hospital, following liver shrink diet, preparing foods for post-op. Family is ready. I've had a lot of preparation with classes, research, etc., but that was a while ago -- hoping I remember the guidelines. I've enjoyed meeting people on this site and appreciate all the support. I've learned so much from everyone here -- it makes it easier because I don't feel I'm alone on this journey. I believe this will go well.

Surgery date has been moved up from 6/2 to 5/30 -- only a few days, but a bit unsettling, also exciting. I'm ready though, and also ready to start recuperating. The liver shrink diet is going well. I started it a week early, and with the surgery moved up I'm glad I did. It's become easier now that I've been on the diet for a while. I had all the pre-admission tests yesterday at the hospital and filled out the paperwork. There have already been many, many steps on this journey. I researched options and doctors for many months before applying to Dr. Weaver's program at Saint Francis hospital in February. So I feel well-prepared as the surgery date approaches. Ten more days before surgery day.

I've started substituting whey protein shakes for some meals. An OH friend, Leticia, recommended I start adding them now in preparation for surgery 6/2. Leticia has been so successful; I didn't hesitate and began following her advice immediately. I learn something new almost every day on the site -- what a gift. I've completed all requirements for surgery and am gathering information and items for life on the loosing side.

Yes, the date's set. It seems so far away. I've had some down moments since hearing how long it will be, but have begun to realize how I can use this time to learn more and be better prepared. The hopechest is growing and I'm both anxious and fearful about beginning this wild rollercoaster ride I've been reading about. I've been praying that I won't continue to be so obsessed with all this. I have another nutrition class this week; I love learning all this new information about healthy living.

Another step closer. Got a call from a lady named Jeanette in Dr. Weaver's office. I will be seeing Dr. Weaver next week, 4/1/08 -- on April Fool's Day! I'm looking forward to learning more about this whole process and hearing her plans for my surgery and program. I'm working on a list of questions to take with me. When I was having my upper GI test done last week, several folks complimented Dr. Weaver and said she would be their choice if they were having this surgery. This made me feel better. I know they hear many comments about surgeons in this area. Also, I'm glad to report I've had no more melt-downs since last Friday evening. I even went out and bought a Magic Bullett to put into my new hope chest. I picked up some special lip treatment to take to the hospital, and I began feeling a new commitment to this process. I know I'm going forward.