Hi! It's nice to have another "friend" in St. Louis. I get sleeved next week, on the 18th. I'm getting nervous, but excited! It kind of feels surreal though. I live in Maplewood, and work in Ladue. I am a nurse, so I'm busy, but I'm always up for a little get together!

Hi! I had surgery on 6/17 and have lost 44 pounds. I had less to lose than most, and I am thrilled with my results! ANd I have saved about as much money in groceries/soda/medicine/etc than I spent on the surgery including the travel to Mexico! So every month is like a bonus from now on There are about 8 of us here in St. Louis, though we've never met in person (as far as I know!). Would love to, just no time to organize or come up with something. I was hoping we could just have some quick get togethers sometime like "Hey I will be at Smoothie King in U City on Sat morning at 9am, if anyone wants to meet me there for a bit" . I also think it would be great to get together once a month or something just to chat and check in and all. Someone else had the great idea of planning physical things - like a 5k someone is attending and needs a walking buddy, etc. Anything you can think of would be great! Hope to hear from you and everyone else soon..! Judie

Thank you so much for your encouraging words, they are much appreciated!

Congrats on your surgery today!

Best wishes on your surgery!

Hi all! I am so excited about this journey and look forward to making many friends here. Surgery is 7/7/11 and I can't wait!!!!

Welcome to the board and congratulations on your decision to have the gastric sleeve.

I have a few suggestions. For a clear protein, I suggest Protica Profect 50. It is a whopping 50 grams of protein in a 3.2 oz vial Protica - Detail

For a really great tasting protein powder, I suggest Max Protein. You can purchase at GNC or online. SEI Pharmaceuticals

To keep track of your calorie intake and measurements and weight. FitDay - Free Weight Loss and Diet Journal This is really useful when you think you've stalled on your weight loss. You can look at what you actually measure!

This blog - theworldaccordingtoeggface She posts some great recipe's and suggestions.

I was on clear liquids for a week, full liquids for another week, puree'd foods for a week, soft foods for a week and then slowly moved on to regular foods while still including the previous foods into my daily food intake. Just don't get ahead of yourself. Take small sips and then small bites. Don't be in a big hurry to eat whatever you want.

In the forum check out this section for suggestions: Gastric Sleeve Diet, Recipes, and Nutrition
Keep a positive attitude and you will do great!