LinSmargiassi

Hi everyone. So, I'm totally new. I only started hearing about VSG about a year ago and I currently have 3 friends who have had successful surgeries. One was done at Cornell Weill, and two others had theirs done at Overlook Hospital. I have been unbelievable impressed with their individual successes and it has encouraged me to take the same journey. I am a complicated patient, however. I have Rheumatoid Arthritis, Osteo Arthritis, Fibromyalgia, only one kidney, and have had one support joint replaced. I am only 45 years old, but I still feel like there's hope if I can lose weight. Granted, it won't reverse my RA, but losing weight can only benefit my health, as I am 295 pounds and only 5'7" tall. I have been heavy my entire life and felt heavy even as a child. I come from a heavy family, although my Dad was always a relatively good weight and never obese, but carried an extra 20 pounds or so. I have been following a lot of video bloggers on youtube and have seen surgeries via youtube... but you know, keeping it real is so important - knowing that i have to give up diet coke and coffee is making me nervous, but I also know that in the end nothing will feel better than losing this weight and being able to move more easily. My Rheumatologist is also advocating this surgery for me. I am considering Cornell in NYC, and Overlook in Summit, NJ. Any advice would be appreciated - I'm here and I'll be hanging out and communicating with folks!

Today I am confirming that I am getting vsg. Moving forward.

Thank you for stopping by and for your message of welcome! I really hope your insurance company comes through for you!!! I have several friends that have had this surgery, and it really does seem like an answer to my prayers. I have hope for the first time in a long time! :^)