hey im new to this and jut looking for people to share my journey with

iam due for surg mon 22nd at 8am iam very nervous about going under anyone wana share there experiences

Angela, My journey has been incredible and without complications, except for some vitamin issues at about 1 yr out. Taking your vitamins is crucial and having regullar bloodwork will identify any issues you are experiencing. Regarding my WLS, I would do it all over again in a heartbeat because I HAVE MY LIFE BACK! I am without back pain, off all meds and am a ball of energy. I can walk around without being stared at or ridiculed for my size. Heck, I can walk around period! Prior to surgery, I couldn't walk or stand for more than 5 minutes without the pain in my back causing me to sit down and rest, my life had come to a standstill because I couldn't maneuver and I didn't want to be a burden to my friends or family so I didn't do anything. LIFE IS SO GOOD FOR ME TODAY! I think the biggest struggle I have had would be having my head catch up to my body, some times I dont know who is in the mirror looking back at me, but I'm learning to accept and fully embrace the person I have become. I definitely think support groups and counseling are amazing tools for this journey. Trust me, no one who hasn't walked in our shoes can not possibly understand what we are experiencing (before or after WLS). So surround yourself with support and don't be afraid to ask for guidance and help, some of the friends I have met off this board have helped me thru some difficult times over the past 14 months and I am so grateful. Today, I don't need as much support from the board as before, but I know it will always be here for me for guidance and support. Good luck with your surgery and recovery, definitely utilize the board to help you thru your journey. Take care, Amy

Hay beautiful - glad your doing awesome. When you coming to visit St. Augustine??????? Let me know. tina

Hey Tina! Not planning on coming there in this crazy heat, maybe in the Fall. I'm due for a St. Augustine "fix". I'll let you know so we have an excuse to go to The Columbia again LOL. Take care, Amy

Angela, I hope your experience is as good as mine was. I went in for surgery at 10:00am on Friday, I was up and walking by 3:00pm that day. Pain was well managed by a pump, I would sleep a couple of hours, get up and walk, sleep a couple of hours, get up and walk. I had no complications, everything went smoothly, I left the hospital at 10:00 am Sunday, 48 hours after surgery. I started losing weight, and the rest is history. Just remember, the only thing you have to worry about right after surgery is, walk, rest, drink water, walk, rest, drink water, walk, rest, drink water. Do what your surgeon tells you to do, and you will do great. Good luck.

Angela ------The best thing I ever did was have this surgrey....ok 2nd best thing. First was my hubby... I'm a new person. Read my profile if you get a chance. Best to you, let us know how you are doing as you start your journey. I'll be thinking of you tomarrow. tina

Hey Angela, Glad to have you here. Check out my profile for some thoughts to prepare you for surgery and after. The more you know the better prepared you are. This is a wonderful adventure and you will love the new life it gives you. We're here for you! Blessings, Tami

Angela, I just had my surgery on 8/9 (almost 2 weeks ago). It went wonderful... Use your pain pump and you'll do fine!! I'm already down 26 lbs... which doesn't really show yet because i'm still a little swollen and bloated from the surgery. I hope you like Broth you will have it every meal in the hospital!! So be prepared!! Right now i'm having trouble getting in all my vitamins which I can feel because I'm tired a lot, but i'm working on it... This board is a wonderful and invaluable tool... you've got questions, they've got answers!!! Be POSITIVE!!! You will be in my prayers for a smooth surgery and speedy recovery!! Erika C.