POLL? What are you doing to MENTALLY get prepared for the BIG day?

'Cause I am scared to death....

I'm just walking myself through everything --mentally going through everything from registering at the desk to getting changed to going into the OR to taking the last deep breath before I go under. I'm terrified of surgery and anesthesia, even though I've undergone about twentysomething surgical procedures thanks to a congenital disability. Constantly going through everything in my head over and over again makes me more comfortable with it. ~Jen

Hi Ann I am really not scared yet. I have 8 days til surgery and I'm ready to get this over with. In a couple of days this may change to me being terrified. I got the book.. WLS for dummies and its a great boo****ep reading it so I can understand exactly what I'll be going through. Between cleaning my house and reading my book, the time is flying by for me. Take Care, Kay

Hi Ann!! I am just relaxing. I know that this surgery will be no different than the last 5 I have had, and if it is then that just means that it was meant to be!! I refuse to let myself get crazy over this, I chose to have it and I will follow through with what I need to do. I feel like I have been given a miracle to start fresh and new with my life, so I will grab the bull by the horns and make the best of it!! Don't let yourself get too stressed, you and the rest of us will be fine!!! Relax and take a nice hot bubble bath!!! You will come through with flying colors!! Steph

Oddly enough, the closer I get to having surgery, the less scared and more excited I become. Of course, I'm saying that NOW...who knows how things will be on Jan 20th or so! Chele

I have worked hard to get here and am really excited that its going to happen and that there's a new life ahead. I've got a lot of work obligations to tie up and that's keeping me very busy, I cannot wait to step away from the office for two weeks. Also getting my house/bills/laundry in order and finalizing plans for my dog's vacation. I have two friends coming in from out of town to stay with me at different times so in some respects, I'm also planning for house guests (although while there are here its all about me!) I like the idea of visualizing the whole process and will start to do that. The night I spent at the hosp for the sleep lab was actually a very good exercise to help me understand the environment. Its a nice hospital with all private rooms and satellite TV. The only two things I worry about are the IV and catheter; and of course, my own mortality . They've flagged for my arm to be numbed and assured me its a woman putting in the cath while I am asleep. This is my first medical experience so I know that I have no clue of what's ahead...but at the same time, find comfort in the humility that I'll learn. I think about the confidence I have in my body, the surgeon and the doctors who gave me clearance for the operation; and all the others who've helped make this possible. And I'm getting a manicure and pedicure on Saturday. Stuff for a mini facial is also in my bag so I can look healthy and radiant coming out.

Ann, I have been going to a counselor for a few month to prepare for the surgery and the changes that I will face after. I am so glad I did as I am confident and ready to go! Teresa

Ann, The perfect post and perfect question. I firmly believe in the mental and emotional component to losing the weight. So, I have been going to therapy and will continue therapy after my banding. The way to be successful is to get the head together so the body can come along. Sandra

hi ann Just trying to keep a positive outlook. my faith in god knowing he will watch over me and guide the surgen's hands is keeping me pretty relaxed. dave

Thanks all for the suggestions. I am seeing a counselor (cause I'm a little anyway) and will continue after. I think my problem is I have had a date since July 2005. I had to wait till January due to a new job and my job wanting me to wait until after the holidays. So now all the sudden I am like...IT IS HAPPENING...also, I have NEVER had any type of surgery before..NEVER...just the whole thought freaks me out, but I feel I have no other choice.....anyway, thanks for the support, I hope to do the same for you as we are all in the same boat...