New to group

[Tekosima]

Hello everyone.
I am almost finished with my "To Do List" and then I will be calling my doctor to see what is next. Scheduling surgery date and pre-op appointment, then 2 week liquid diet from what I understand.
About me... I am a single Mom. I have three kids. My youngest one is now 18 and graduated during this COVID nightmare! I am very proud of her. I also have a 20 year old daughter and 27 year old son. I have raised good kids.
Now, I am taking time to concentrate on Mom. This is something that has been neglected over the years, as putting my children first has always been my priority. So this is a very new and interesting journey into self. I have found it kind of tricky to do all these things during COVID. I am hoping I will be able to get my surgery. I know that in the beginning of COVID they cancelled elective surgeries, I am afraid of that happening to me.
In less than a week I go to my appointment to get clearance for my sleep apnea, which is one of the last things required. Aside from attending support group meetings. Which, during these times... WHERE DO YOU FIND THEM? I think I have been pretty resourceful and checking into forums and chats and such.
I am hoping to get the sleeve. I am only one pound away from my pre-surgery goal weight.
Just anxious to see what is next and get input from others on what they are doing for themselves.
Helpful hints, things to avoid? Feedback/advice welcome!

 

[WazzuCoug]

Congratulations on the big step you are taking and welcome to our group. There are so many great people here with lots of experience from pre-op to a decade+ post-surgery.

• Stick to your pre-surgery diet as best you can. It really helps set the stage for post-surgery.
• Start mimicking the post-surgery eating habits like eating slowly (chew each bite for 20 seconds, take 20-30 min to finish a meal, etc.)
• If you aren't drinking 64oz of water in a day, start getting used to doing that, and always carry a water bottle with you.
• Prepare yourself mentally for pauses and stalls in weight loss after surgery. They happen, they are natural, and while it's hard not to get frustrated, you will break through them.
• If you aren't in the habit of exercising, a good place to start is walking. Just build the habit. Walking is a great way to help speed up healing and stimulate your body after surgery.
• Consider addressing and talking about any food issues (emotional eating, food addiction, etc.) with a counselor before surgery and continue after surgery to combat old habits.
• Reach out to bariatric communities like this one for support.

Best of luck in your journey!!
Ryan

 

[3momchaos]

Welcome! So happy to have you here. As far as support groups go, my surgeons office had an optional one before Covid, and I think there might be one via zoom, but I never looked into it because I’ve been using this forum the whole time. I’m preop, waiting for my precertification to go through at insurance. I’m anxiously awaiting the call from my drs office with the approval or denial, which will probably be approval since I’ve done everything insurance required. Glad you’re here and putting your health first!

 

[missyinacage]

Hi, Welcome to the group. My program offers a support group via Zoom, but I can't make it due to work. But I am very glad I found this group. I think all programs should offer support groups or require you to find one. It's really great to hear from those with more experience and those who are having similar experiences to your own. Best of luck to you.