This week, I joined what support groups call the losers bench.  I had Gastric Bypass on October 1, 2019 in Houston TX.

I was to arrive at 5am for first case surgery.  I was  in the surgery lobby at 4:45am.  By 4:55am I was checked in and in a room.

Prep was quick,  they placed me in what looked like a paper moon suit.  It was kind of neat, you could attach heating/cooling hoses so you’re either warm or cold.   Nurses, techs, doctors and  hospital staff were amazing.  I was so impressed with the precision in which they work.

The last thing I remember was being in the OR and seeing the table.  In my mind,  the table seemed very narrow.  I was out after that.  I remember waking and complaining about my left shoulder being in pain.  Other than that All I felt was bloated.

Being wheeled into the room, my friend Jacqui was waiting for me.   The rest of the day was pretty uneventful.  I was given IV fluids and a PCA Pump with Dilaudid.  I used the pump once in the 24 hours I was in the hospital. They gave me Tylenol via IV.

I was fed almost immediately.  Chicken Broth, yogurt and jello were on the menu.  The following morning watered down cream of wheat with skim milk was for breakfast.

The bariatric dietician, pharmacist, PA to the surgeon  and surgical fellow came by to discuss a few things.

The dietician went over my meal plan and diet for the next month.

The Pharmacist discussed my list of medication and what to take when and how.  She also stressed me using being diligent about the lovenox injections I have to give myself for 2 weeks.

Physician Assistant came to discuss my first visit which will be with her.  After that I’ll go between the PA and surgeon.

The discharge was quick and efficient.  Dr. Sherman showed up as I was being wheeled out. He was very surprised at how well I looked.

Heading home, I was armed with tons of instructions, and eager to get home.

The past few days, I’ve walked,  drank my protein drinks and sufficient water.

My biggest issue has been gas.  Walking helps with that.  My pharmacist recommended chewable gasex and miralax,

Friday morning,  was the best I have felt. My tummy  is somewhat tender where the incisions are but still no pain.  I was given Tramadol to crush but haven’t had to use it.  Nor have I used he Zofran or Phenergan.    Gas is still present. but not as much as I’ve felt over the past few days.  I think its easing.