I hope this gets posted to the message board. I wanted to say that I'm back! I am here on the other side finally! My surgery was Tuesday, August 7th at St. Lukes Hospital in Phoenix AZ. I was really blessed with my Angel's presence, Christina Garcia, and lots of family and friends..even some people from ObesityHelp.com! I was brought in the hospital and was given excellent treatment from empathetic people who have had the surgery done on themselves before, the nursing staff, etc. My surgery was an OPEN RNY and my doctor fixed my gall bladder, and did a hernia repair too. He was wonderful. I really am following his orders about walking and eating slowly. I was doing so well, in fact, I was allowed to come home soon, after 3 days and 2 nights in the hospital. It's been an adjustment at home, but I am trying. Yesterday, I went for a walk around the block and then had a refreshing shower. I am really beginning to feel better. Also, my first BM was runny, but I hear that's normal. So, right now...I am doing great. I hope others do as well as I, and I must say that all the preparations I took before surgery...like walking and walking...really paid off. (I'll keep my fingers crossed and hope to continue doing fine now)...Pam Ransom