- Name: Linda Cox
- Age: 56
- Surgery: Gastric Sleeve
- Surgery date: April 10th, 2013
- Testimonial date: May 10th, 2013
- Surgeon: Dr. Almanza
The staff and Dr. Almanza were excellent. They treated me with dignity and respect. They took very good care of me. The hotel Ticuan took very good care of me and was there with plenty of popsicles,water,juice,and broth,at my request. They,also,offered free massages
to help with the gas pains. There was a nurse at the hotel to assist with bandage changes or other needs or questions, that I had. This was a wonderful amenity.
The hardest thing for me was the plane ride home. I live in Wisconsin and the whole day was spent at the airport or on the plane. I was off of work for a week but I should have taken 2 weeks off as I felt very depleted. This is because you are on a restricted diet while your new stomach is healing. I was on liquids for a week after surgery and this, along with, the 5 day fast prior to surgery left me feeling weak. Once I was able to get foods with more substance in me, I felt much better. Plus, I started taking my B12 pills and vitamins after a week and a half after surgery. This helped with my energy levels, also.
Today, I feel great. I am still on a resticted diet for awhile, but I do not miss anything. I really haven't had too many cravings and the ones I did have, were for protein.
I can only eat 1/4 of a cup, at meals, but I eat, frequently. Usually every 2-3 hrs. I have eaten out with my friends and have never felt deprived. They were eating all kinds of things that I love, but I did not feel like I had to have them. I was completely satisfied. What a change for me, as I always felt deprived when dieting. Of the foods that I can have, at this time, I can eat anything. I have no problems with any of them or feeling sick or throwing up. You learn to slow down and take small bites and chew your food thoroughly. If I don't I will get a knot on my chest. It feels like I have to burp but can't. If I eat too much it feels like the food is backing up in my throat. You learn to not eat, mindlessly, anymore. This is a plus, as I feel like I am enjoying my food now as compared to the past, when I just shoveled it in.
I hope this helps for those of you considering this surgery. I am glad that I chose to do this and wish I could have earlier. (My health ins. denied me, years ago) I went by myself and was never afraid. My only fear, was that the seatbelt, on the plane, would not fit me! I did have to ask for a seatbelt extention on my first flight, which was a very small plane. I told myself that this would be the last time, I would have to do this. On the way back home, on the same small plane, my seatbelt fit and I did not have to ask for an extention! whoo hoo.
If you would like to contact me, I would be happy to answer any of your questions. You can email me at: lindacox5085@att.net Thanks and good luck on your weight loss journey.
* This is an actual testimonial, however, your results may vary. For more information, please read our Testimonial Disclaimer and Risks of Surgery.