Hi Tiffany, I had surgery on the 27th of April and so know of the things you are going thru. I hope you are well and have a fast recovery. Good luck to you. Susan

From my own experience, I would suggest going ahead with the DS instead of the VBG. Apparently a lot seems to have changed with the VBG since I had mine in 1989. I had many complications and couldn't keep meat or vegetables down for over 15 years. In the end I had to have my entire stomach removed and a 60 cm RNY bypass. In the 80's when the VBG was the rage, a lot was not known about it. I have spoken to many people that have suffered over the last 20 years due to the VBG. Many had similar problems to mine, some had the surgery reversed, many had it revised, some died and there are some that are still suffering from the afteraffects of the VBG. It is touted as not causing malabsorption, however I have found through myself and others that in many cases it is because fibrous foods aren't tolerated. Do your research! Check out some of the yahoo groups, like the revision or gone wrong group. There is also a group for VBGers. Make sure that you look at all aspects of both surgeries and make sure that you don't only see the good stuff. Complications can happen with any surgery. I admit that my complications were extreme, however if I were to start all over again and had the resources available that there are today, my decision probably would have been different. Remember every body is different and will react differently to the different surgeries. Once you decide what you think is best, make sure that you pick a surgeon that has a lot of experience and ask them if they do revisions. It is not needed by everyone, but it doesn't hurt to ask. Make sure they have a good follow-up program in place and possibly a support group. From experience I can tell you that living for over 15 years throwing up all the time and thinking it was my fault and I was all alone was sheer h***! I have now dedicated my life to helping those with surgeries that have gone bad. Good luck in whatever choice you make. Feel free to check out my profile, it outlines my journey in detail. Michelle Mack Minnesota

I am just now starting my journey, but I wanted to let you know I have found your posts, replies, and info on your profile to be most helpful. I copied the section on your profile: Pouch Rules for Dummies. I am most probably going to have my surgery sometime this summer-laparscopic VBG. I meet with my surgeon next week. Again, just wanted to say thanks for all the practical and meaningful words of wisdom. I know you will reach your goal-there's nothing to hold you back, if you practice what you preach-Dana Hornby

Yes, I agree with all of the health benefits of nuts. I try to fit them in 3 days per week if I have extra calories available or if I have exercised hard any day I give myself an additional 200 calories. Sharon

Hey Sharon, I was wondering how you were! It's so good to hear from you I am so happy for you and your success...way to go!!!!!! You are an inspiration to me and always have been. I can't tell you how much I love to read your posts and everything. Big hugs, Sara