Thanks so very much! I love your advice on thinking like a thin person. Great to know that another chef can make it work. I'm so excited to start this new life.

Please don't be nervous. The surgery was really easy. Make sure you speak up if you have pain or nausea. No sense being a hero. They can give you something to help you feel better. When I went home I only took 3 pain pills. I was really lucky, my Dr does the leak test during the surgery. I had no sore throat nor did I have trapped gas. I would practice some things before surgery; drink a LOT of water, try to not drink w/meals, start walking if you are able, and start thinking about yourself as a thin person because it will happen sooner than you think.
My hubby is a chef and has had no trouble w eating at work. You won't be hungry. Just think about your water if you work in a kitchen that isn't air conditioned and you sweat, you'll want to drink more. Ten, my hubby is fortunate to work in an air conditioned kitchen. His co-workers are very supportive. It is great for me- he started cooking post-surgery foo yesterday!!! YUMMY!!!
Good luck on Monday- let us know how you are doing.