3 day to go! - Page 2 - ThinnerTimes - Gastric Bypass Forum, Lap Band Forum, and Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy Forum

Beth in Texas · 09-06-2009, 12:08 PM

Sue, I agree...one of the things about living where I am right now is that I miss the seasons, and my ocean.

Doreen, welcome! I wish you all the best tomorrow as you begin your journey on the loser's bench. Keep us informed with your progress, will you?

pawpal · 09-12-2009, 03:23 PM

Hi All - glad to be able to post that I came home early & really have been pretty lucky! Barely any pain and I can tolerate at least an ounce or 2 of most things I've tried so far. I'm a huge peanut-butter fan and was very happy to find out that I still like the taste of my protein drink w/some peanut butter (tastes like Chocolate peanut-butter cup ice cream to me!). If there's any other die-hard peanut butter lovers out there who have more suggestions for what I can do with peanut butter I'd love to here about them!

Having a bit of a problem getting all of my water in -but realize it's just because I have to plan things in advance a little better -- and stick to the schedule!

The only displeasant thing that's happened to me so far concerning having the surgery is in regards to the drain. I was feeling so good that as I mentioned I was allowed to have the drain removed and go home early. I knew previously that quite a bit had been coming out of the drain -- but when the discharge instructions were reviewed I was led to believe the bandagte would only need to be changed as needed once or twice (so I thought the worse was over). When I woke up the next day I was a little shocked to see all of my clothes and bedsheets covered with blood. Got me scared for a little bit - but my doctor immediately called me back after I left a message to explain this was normal - & heavier drainage can be expected for at least 4 days after. Suggested that I keep a heavy duty towel over the gauze and keep changing it as it soaked thru. I kind of wish the resident who removed the drain & went over instructions would've told me more of what to expect so that I'd have been more prepared. If anyone reading this is due to have surgery soon, hopefully this will help keep you calm if you experience a similar situation.

I know this is getting a little wordy... but one last thing. Not to be too personal, but could anyone tell me how long it was after the surgery that they were able to have a bowel movement? I understand it can take between 3 to 5 days after surgery (or longer).... hopefully fo rme it will not be "or longer". Wasn't sure if there's anything I can do to help things along in that area?

I say THANK YOU everyday for finding this site!
Doreen

I really can't complain at all, though -- everything has gone so easy it's kind of scary. I'm so glad I found this web site. I have to admit I was skeptical to what some people were saying -- but this really has been a piece of cake (no pun intended towards cake!)

Socalmomof2grownkids · 09-12-2009, 04:53 PM

I am so glad you made it home safe and sound. It gives me hope I can do the same thing, as my surgery is next week. Get Well Soon !! Proud of ya already

SoCal

Laureate · 09-12-2009, 05:15 PM

Pawpal,

Other than your drain scare, I'm pleased things are going so well for you!

There may still be bumps in the road, but you are off to such a great start. Hope your journey continues to be as smooth.

Beth in Texas · 09-12-2009, 06:11 PM

So glad that things are going so well for you, Doreen!

I don't think I've read anything about the drain issues you had. I had only read about some who didn't have, and some who did. Kind of interesting to hear your story--and I'll make sure I prepare for the possibility

BTW, if you promise NOT to swallow it, chewing gum (SF) helps those intestines to keep things moving along after surgery.

Momof2boys · 09-12-2009, 07:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by pawpal

Hi - I'm a newbie whose having Gastric Bypass surgery on Tue 9/08 in Massachusetts. I'm so glad I came across this website! When I read some other people's questions it was like I was reading my own mind! was starting to get some last minute doubts -- but feel more than ever now that I'm on the right road to a new and healthy me!

Good Luck! I am new to the site too and I felt the same way about it as you did! So many questions were answered and I feel so much more confident now in my decision. I have surgery on Sept 21.. I am on day 2 of my liquid preop diet.. getting nervous and excited!

Keep us updated on your progress!! good luck!

pawpal · 09-12-2009, 08:44 PM

Thanks for the advice about gum.... hadn't even thought about that. Will definitely give it a try!

pawpal · 09-12-2009, 08:47 PM

Hi Sue...
It definitely feels better to be home! I know I shouldn't have, but I snuck on the scale the first day I got back... shouldn't have done it - as I weigh more than I did before the surgery (but I know it's from all the IV fluids, etc). Hopefully I'll officially be on the "Losers Bench" soon -- but I'm not going to weigh myself until my post-op visit next week.

Crimson Kittie · 09-12-2009, 09:12 PM

Welcome Aboard

pawpal · 09-12-2009, 09:59 PM

Good Luck!
I feel like your big sister - cause I'm a week older than you! I can't believe how much difference a week can make. I'm sure before you know it you'll be back home typing emails to others to tell them how great you feel!
Plese keep in touch - I'd love to hear how you're doing!