NikiS

CONGRATULATIONS!!!! Slow and steady wins the race! You are doing a fantastic job.

Hi. Your BMI is really low which may not make you a candidate for this particular surgery. You shared that you just had a baby so maybe you should see if you lose some of the baby weight and then after some time has passed speak with a nutritionist about a plan that best works for your body type and will increase your metabolism. Here's wishing you all the best, Niki

Hi Diana! Phew...I thought it was just me. I am soooo excited and a little nervous too. I have only been on this site for a couple of weeks and just joined on Oct. 1. In August, I went with my sister to a seminar on bariatric surgery. Initially, she was interested in the Lap Band and about half way through, as the doctor concluded the VSG portion of his presentation, I went from being my sister's supporter to a new patient (LOL). To date, I had my initial consultation with the doctor, and I've had my lab work done. Oct. 11 is my Upper GI and the ultrasound. After that I'm told I need a psych eval, I have to meet with an nutritionist and take a class. I guess after that it's just a waiting game until the surgery which I'm hoping will be before the end of the year. Is that wishful thinking on my part? I really don't know how long it takes it get an actual surgery date. I'm told for Aetna patients it takes a little longer, however I have IBX. I've read posts about having a hard time ingesting the Protein, and I know this sounds crazy but I'm looking forward to it because that will mean I will have had my surgery and I'm on my way to a healthier me. I can't wait to chart my progress and prayerfully be an encouragement to others as so many people on this site have been an encouragement to me. Diana, I wish you all of the best! Have a great day, Niki

Good morning. My sister and I have had this same conversation as she and I both are preparing to have the surgery. Although we aren't planning on screaming our decision to have the surgery from the hill tops, we have shared our choice with our mother, my sister told her husband and I've told my ex-husband, a friend and my boyfriend...all of which are extremely supportive. I think you should tell someone as you will not only need the support, but also just in case there are complications (God forbid), your hospital stay is longer than anticipated, or you just need someone to talk to. When you start to lose a significant amount of weight when asked how you're losing the weight, maybe instead of intrusting them with your secret you can simply say 'portion control' which will be true as you will no longer be able to consume as much food as you once did. I know it's omission but hopefully it will help you avoid the potential judgment and scrutiny of the nay-sayers. Just a thought. All the best to you, stay encouraged and chin up!!! Niki

Welcome to the site! Like you, I have just recently joined this site. Your doctor will definitely tell you if having the procedure to treat your ulcer will hinder the advvancement of your upcoming surgery. I'm no doctor but if I had to guess I'd say no...it shouldn't be a hinderance. Good luck with your appointment tomorrow! Be encourage.

Hi Shannon. Your story really touched me. Thanks for being so transparent. And no, you're not defective. I haven't had the surgery yet and although I haven't been big my whole life, I have been on my fair share of diets. With me it's more mind over matter. We always want those things we can't or shouldn't have. Try not to be too hard on yourself because you can do it. Look at the weigh you've lost already!!! Be encouraged, stay strong and don't give up. You're a winner!!!!