welcome, im new too. i dont have a surgery date yet but im excited to be healthy again.....and the people on here joe are great they will help you with almost anything :) good luck

Hey, Joe and welcome to this site.

My surgery was 8/3 - just 9 days ago. We ALL had worries, fears and anxiety. How could we not? This surgery is a BIG DEAL and it is FOREVER. You'd better be taking it seriously!

For me, focusing on the future helped. I kept reminding myself about why I was choosing the surgery and visualizing my new life (not fantasy, tho, because my reason for the surgery is to REALLY LIVE). For instance the fair is starting next week - I haven't been in 10 years - can't walk that much. By next year I will be going to the fair with my granddaughter.

I also journaled.

Good luck to you. My recovery was really remarkable. 2 days in hosp, only needed 2doses of narcotics at home, and I've had success with the water and protein drinks. There were a couple of really bad days of hurting from the gas. I wish the best for you as well.

If you have specific questions, we're here to help.

I joined this group recently and have learned so much from the individuals here. Personally, if I know what to possibly expect, I am "well-armed" to handle emotional and physical events. The people here have all been there or are planning to be. They have a wealth of experiences and resources. The newbies (pre-op) share their support routinely. As each of us progresses to the "losers' bench" (post-op), we all feel the joy. So welcome, Joe! You are in a very caring place.
~QB

hey Joe, welcome! I'm having my surgery tomorrow!!! WOOHOO!! You will love this site, I have learned soooo much from it pre-op...ask ANY question at all.......there was actually a post from one of our guys last week or so that talked about how men gain inches from losing weight! (hope to not offend, just showing you any and all questions are valid here)

I cannot wait to start my new life and I wish you all the best on your journey! {{{HUGS}}}

the post was from Dinae and I just put in on top of the discussion list. it's titled: OK, enough w/the lady.....has 34 replies, this will give you an idea of how awesome our group is!

You guys are the best and thanks for the support.I will keep you posted on how things are going.

Welcome Joe:) I am pre-op too and everyone here is very nice, helpful and encouraging.

Welcome, Joe! I'm so glad you found us!

I handled my anxiety by searching the internet for encouraging stories. Someone's Youtube posts led me here, and Ive been here ever sincethrough my pre-op appointment, surgery, my first meal, losing the first 100 lbs, reaching goal, and nowmaintaining a healthy weight! Love these people!!

JJ

Welcome Joe! Glad to have you join in on this journey. I'm pre-op, too and haven't been too nervous until just recently. I try to keep myself distracted and busy. If it gets too bad I will definitely ask my PCP for something to help get it under control.

Linda

Welcome to the group !
You are about to have a major surgery and have decided to take a path that will change your life completely....of course there is anxiety we all felt it!
WLS is a wonderful tool that will help you to change your life for the better, but the hard work involved is up to you to accomplish.
I wish you every sucess on your journey and this group is here for the answers and support you may need along the way. d

Welcome Joe! You have found friends for life because many of us have already gone through what you are about to do....it can be done...we are lliving proof! This site is fantastic and very worthwhile! Keep us posted and good luck!

Welcome Joe. I am three weeks out of surgery. On 7/25/11 I had gastric bypass surgery. I was so nervous as my surgery date got closer I ended up asking my primary doctor for anti anxiety medication that rally helped. I also did tons of research on-line to get an idea of what was to come. For me it wasn't the surgery, it was being under anesthesia and worrying if I never woke up who would raise my two daughters .I am a single Mom, only child and only family close is my girls father's side. I prayed a lot for peace of mind and to watch over me and my girls. It all worked out by the grace of God. You'll do fine, just think positive and imagine your new life a year from now when you have lost a significant amount of weight and can do more things than you imagine.

Welcome Joe
Your find everyone is so friendly

Dave