It’s been three days since surgery, and I today I hit a turning point. Thank you to everyone who has left such nice comments, tweets, FB posts, and emails. I’ve read and appreciate every single one. They mean more than you know.
Since Monday, the day of surgery, I’ve been in terrible pain. Pain from the incisions and the surgery itself. Pain from the extra gas they flooded my stomach with so they could work. Pain from the staples and the fact that they cut away 80% of my stomach for the VSG (vertical sleeve gastrectomy) surgery.
I expected there would be discomfort, even some pain, but what I’ve experienced the past several days wasn’t anything I was prepared for. I think it’s sort of like childbirth – everyone who has had WLS is so pleased with their results that they forget about the pain of the process immediately after surgery. Of all the people I’ve spoken to about the surgery, no one mentioned this kind of pain. And the thing is, I have a really high pain tolerance.
But today I turned a corner. I went on the Sassy Sleever group on FB looking for tips and was reminded about taking GasX to help with the bloating. That worked like a miracle! Then one of my friends pushed me by saying I needed to get up, get out, and walk – no excuses. I’m so glad he gave me that kick in the butt, because it was what I needed. I’d been walking around the house, up the stairs, etc., but I hadn’t ventured outside yet.
Today I decided that I had been in this slump long enough. I cleaned myself up, put on a bit of BB cream and a touch of blush, got dressed, and went outside to take a slow, short walk in the sun. My mom accompanied me, because I don’t feel strong enough to go outside on my own for a walk just yet.
Between the walk, the GasX, and a more positive attitude, I feel like myself again. I am so glad that I made the decision to have the VSG, and I’m so proud of myself for the steps that I took to get here. I’m looking forward to heading home tomorrow and really starting to live my new life. My journey is just beginning, but I’m confident about where I’m heading.
Bella on the Beach 
So glad you are doing better…thanks for the e-mail about this post!
Yup! Sounds a bit like a cesarean recovery!! I’m so excited to see the changes in the coming weeks/months! So excited for you Bella! Getting outside for a slow walk everyday will do more than you think!
I’m convinced of it, Carrie! Thanks for the encouragement. Daily walks outside are in the agenda.
Sorry it’s been so painful, but glad it seems the worst is behind you.
Yes, it seems like I’m in a downward slope (in a good way).
So glad the worst part of the pain is behind you,and that you are able to take walks outside now! Sending hugs!
Thanks so much, Amber.
You got this! Glad to hear you are on your way home and getting back to you!
So glad you are up and moving around. I had horrible pain from the gas when I had my gall bladder surgery. That was the worst part of the whole thing it put so much pressure on everything!
Thinking of you this morning. Hope your recovery continues to go smoothly.
Blessings