James D. Atkinson, MD

It took jumping through a lot of hoops to get to this day. Today I will be having my pre-op appointment. I have a cold for the first time in 3 years so I'm not sure if they are going to postpone my surgery or not. Also, I have only lost 10 pounds since I started this process. I weighed in at 286 last year at my first class. I have no idea what to expect at this appointment and I am a bit apprehensive about if they are gonna postpone it or not.

Updated on 28 Apr 2016:
My surgery is coming up so quick. I have to prepare for the first two weeks of liquid diet and protein. I'm not afraid at all, but a little anxious. I KNOW it won't be easy afterwards and for at least a year I want to eat a plant-based diet. I know I could do it without the surgery, but the problem is when I fall off the "chuck wagon". Lol.

Updated on 4 May 2016:
I have to report to the hospital tomorrow at 11. My heart is beating fast.

Updated on 5 May 2016:
Well the day has come. I am ready to begin my new journey and although I'm a little apprehensive of how I'm going to cope workout food for a few weeks, I think I have prepared my mind for the worst, so it won't be that bad. I'll post on the other side of the sleeve!

Updated on 5 May 2016:
Hi there. I'm so anxious. On my way right now to the hospital. Feeling excited. I really can't believe this day is here and I won't believe it until the surgery is over.

Updated on 5 May 2016:
Well nobody told me I would feel like crap when I woke. I had to stay in recovery longer than normal because my bp shot up. I will say that I have the BEST caretaker in the world! I wouldn't have been able to do this without nurse Kara Cummings who stayed with me the whole day and is staying the night. Her beautiful kids are with daddy, Nana, and/or Gigi.

Updated on 6 May 2016:
Grrrrr, feel like crap. Not always, just real show when I wake. Gonna be hard to work Sunday. Thankfully, my job isn't a lot of physical if I don't let it be.

Updated on 12 May 2016:
I am 8 days out of my sleeve surgery and developed diarrhea yesterday. I thought it was gone, but it started again today. Could it be that I am still taking a probiotic pill without eating? I forgot to ask my dietician today.

Updated on 18 May 2016:
Loving life! Feeling great. Thankful and blessed! Just started mushy food and although it stays down, I have to eat very little and slowly.

Updated on 9 Jun 2016:
So I had a followup appointment at the doctor. It's been a month since I had the sleeve. Down 29 pounds, but the best thing is how I feel! Sugar is low, energy is high, and I sleep well now.