Hi, I am 1 yr. post liver transplant facing another surgery and recovery. Background: 1 day post transplant I was taken back to surgery for internal bleeding (1st Hernia), mesh was put in place to bridge the little bit a tissue I had and all was well. 6 mos. post transplant I was complaining of pain and it was decided it was just nerve endings/damage. Continually got worse and started gaining 8-10 lbs. a month. Long story, 40lbs heavier, looking like I am pregnant on right side only and many CT, US and other procedures and ideas. All tests were negative. Finally a Hernia specialist was called in even though tests all showed no evidence of hernia. He was my angel in a lab coat. Stated it was a hernia in the sense that hernia simply means “protrusion”. Said he couldn’t operate, however a trauma surgeon could. Trauma surgeon states I have to have a complete abdominal wall reconstructed. However, I need to lose 30lbs. Frustrated because this wasn’t found before weight gain and now determined to get it off, while in pain trying to exercise. I am half way there. Operation will have my surgeon, and also a plastic surgeon doing a tag team. Surgery will be very long and/or may be split into 2 days. Basically want others to not give up on yourself when you know something is really wrong. Be strong, as you are your own best patient advocate. Look forward to others comments, advice and pep talks. Thanks for reading.