I had thought about for a long time, having some kind of weight loss surgery. I use to say to myself that I would think about it tomorrow and then go eat another cookie. But one day something changed...and I made a call. This is where my story begins.
In late October of 2006, I called the Bariatric Center in Centra State hospital located in Freehold, NJ. I spoke to a girl named Jessica, and told her I was interested in Lap-band surgery. She made me a consult apponitment and sent me a huge packet of paperwork.
When the packet came in the mail it was alot of forms and a questionaire about myself. The last question was "Do you have a better understanding about yourself after answering these questions?" My answer was YES!!
I learned that I was really ready body, mind and soul to make a drastic change.
In early November I went to my consult, they told me alot of things about the procedure, but I had done so much research that I already knew alot of what they had to say....that was until I got my checklist. This was a paper that had all of the pre-op classes and doctors I had to see before I would even be considered for the lap-band. It was overwhelming...but you know what? I was up to the challenge.
So here I am, almost 3 months later...I have seen a shrink, a cardiologist, a pulmonologist, my regular doctor. I have gone through breathing test, stress test, sleep apnea test, and have taken 7 classes required for the procedure.
On January 17th, 2007 I got a call from Jessica. She said I could have my surgery done on February 10th. All i needed was a few more tests and everything had to be submitted to my insurace company. She called me back about 4 days later and said my insurance would pay and I was good to go.
I started my liquid diet this past Saturday (Jan 27th). Its been hard only because I have been getting some wicked migrains due to the drastic change in eating habits. But, other that that I've been staying on track..and it's not too bad. I went to my regular doctor today for final OK for the lap-band. Ya know what??? I already lost 5 pounds!!!
So now i have 11 days til surgery, I still have to go for an endoscope tomorrow, and my pre-op meeting, blood work and EKG this week.
I have to say one thing about myself...I can't believe that over these past few months, that I stuck to this with great determination, and never took my eyes off the goal I set.
My goal: To lose 131 pounds. I was 271 pounds on Saturday
I want to get down to 140 pounds by the end of my journey
I want to feel better, look better, but most of all...
I want to be HEALTHY to enjoy the rest of my life with my
Daughter and my husband.
Talk to ya soon......Jennifer
