GinaCampbell

Waaaaait a minute!!!! So now you are FULLY admitting that your issues were caused by your team's lack of information, nonhygenic practices, staffing issues, inattentive behavior, etc. yet I, along with everyone else who had great success with our WLS procedures really should have just "worked harder"? You know my weight loss history better than I do? You know my exercise routines, dietary choices made, battles won and lost pre surgery? You get to judge all of us because your weight fell off through unfortunate circumstances making it "easy" to get to your goal through "starvation"? I've said it again and again. I'm sorry you've suffered and if I had a magic wand to put you back where you were, I'd all but beat you with it to make it work, but you have no right to say the rest of us should have simply "worked harder" to lose the weight. I worked da^m hard to get where I am and I've worked harder over the last three years to maintain it. That remark was blatantly offensive, judgemental and unwarranted. WLS is no walk in the park for most people, complications or no. It's definitely not the " easy way out", even for those of us who have not had your same issues. If you took my statement that "some of us" could have worked harder to lose weight (because I clearly could have starved myself to lose weight, that's what my sleeve is doing), as a personal judgment against you, then it has clearly struck a nerve in your psyche, not mine. I was clearly referring to pre op weight loss. Get a grip and go find a less contentious thread to post on. It is becoming quite obvious that a certain few here have a personal vendetta against me and my stance here. If you are so happy, go be happy on one of the "I love my sleeve" threads. Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

Hi Gina, If you or anyone else is interested, there is some quite detailed information regarding clostridium difficile in NHS Trusts here: https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/clostridium-difficile-infection-monthly-data-by-nhs-acute-trust and some statistics (not terribly up to date I'm afraid) of mortality rates in England and Wales can be found here: http://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/birthsdeathsandmarriages/deaths/bulletins/deathsinvolvingclostridiumdifficileenglandandwales/2013-08-22 although it only shows up to 2012 it does highlight that these rates are falling which has to be good news! Hope that helps somewhat. Jo x Hi Jo, Thanks. I couldn't open the documents but I appreciate your efforts to help me raise awareness about this issue. Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

Thanks all. Because of the bank holiday, my surgeon being on holiday and my GP surgery having no appts, I have no choice but to wait for any further help with the C dif. I don't know what my post surgery sleeve could have been like. I don't know what my new normal will be like because I have been so ill since day one. Is the diarrhea C Dif now or surgery related? Who knows? I am 13 1/2 weeks out now and I do feel completely abandoned by the bariatric team that insisted that post op support would be there. I do have the support of the other patients who are suffering too and that helps. I understand that other people wish they could have the surgery. I wish we could swap places too! I want my life back. I don't want to be held hostage by a life changing surgery and post op complications. I miss my family! How many people could stay away from their family this long? I didn't sign up for this much hellish suffering. I listen to the nurse tell me that this has never happened in over six years, when I know the other patients personally who are also suffering many post op issues. So I know now that lying comes easy to the very people I trusted with my life. And that is now beginning to anger me. If I can get treatment for the c dif, and get well from it, I will close the door on the sleeve issue. I can't risk whistleblowing formally because I rely on the NHS for my healthcare. That angers me too. Just because I can't afford private healthcare, doesn't mean that I shouldn't have sufficiently adequate care. I do believe that I received substandard care and that basic hygiene standards were not maintained while I was hospitalised due to a change in pay and conditions for the healthcare staff, which led to industrial action. They were distracted and inattentive. I asked one to help me clean a drip stand that I was attached to. I was told "it is not my job". Gloves weren't worn, people relied on the gel to clean their hands etc. None of this could have been predicted by me. But by raising awareness, perhaps others will know what to look for. I am distraught that I still have to go for a colonoscopy there. I see now that I didn't need a vsg to lose weight. Starving my body clearly works to lose weight. Because that is how my sleeve affects me, combined with multiple antibiotic assaults, c dif and abscesses etc. The weight is off but my body is in crisis. My body is ravaged and failing. My existing medical conditions (fibro, CFS and IBS) are worsened. My mental health is compromised. My family relationships impacted. I was so sick and so weak that I contracted c dif. Who knows how long this will go on? So I can't just work through the program, say "wow, what a great idea this was". It was wrong for me. And I think if people were honest with themselves, some of us could have done more to lose weight. That's a hard truth. I met all the criteria for their program but I wasn't a good candidate at all. Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

I won't say I love how this was worded, but I do agree with several of the points. It still floors me to this day that you did SO much research and found so little of the basic facts. There are lots of people from the UK on this forum and several others that I visit and not one of them didn't know about the Water poop, nauseousness, gall bladder issue, food aversion, etc. I actually messaged many of them because I was downright curious about how backwards your particular practice seems to be. It's a shame you never visited any of the WLS support forums pre-op. All of the issues you've encountered have been discussed ad nauseam on them daily. I am SURE you would have felt much more prepared. My "water poop" is because I have had C diff since June. I have constantly highlighted my lack of information via my LOCAL bariatric program. I am really pleased that you are interested enough and took the time to poll other UK NHS patients regarding my programs lack of in depth information regarding possible post op bariatric issues. You have to admit, after reading thousands of "sleeved Sunday, in work Monday, I love my sleeve, happy days" posts. Which are discussed "ad nauseum", I might have missed some posts regarding in depth, post op mental, emotional and physical complications. We all have lives, even me. There are only so many hours a day to research this topic. I asked my team in depth questions. I got the same answers most people here give. "You'll be fine!", "It's a stage!", "follow your program!". And I have! To the letter. Instead of trying to prove me wrong, why not investigate how to raise awareness? Do posts on food aversion, malnutrition statistics, mortality rates due to c dif infection post op, in the NHS here in the UK. Why not compare the difference in bariatric surgical care in different countries? Why not be helpful instead of trying to imply that it is only myself and all of my bariatric stream patient friends, in the whole of the Universe that has had issues through lack of information? Raising awareness, not trying to disprove a whistleblower, would be more productive! Just off to beg the NHS for yet more procedures, tests, antibiotics etc for C diff. And now that I have reached goal weight in 12 weeks post op, what next? Starvation, malnutrition? Being weak enough for the C diff to finish me off? Thanks for raising awareness as always! Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

As I explained, there was no emphasis in our program, about gallbladder issues. You can't know what you don't know. The majority of my research was done on UK websites, using UK information because I had my surgery here. There was no mention of losing that much weight, that fast. They told me that they rarely had complications with the vsg. I asked for statistics, they gave them. What I didn't delve into was the hospital's post surgical complication rate. I didn't explore the UK statistics for a myriad of post vsg complications. I trusted what I was told. The statistics disagree with you regarding C diff. I am at the end of my first round of a heavy regimen of metronidazole, symptoms still present. Because I have had untreated and undiagnosed C diff since the beginning of June, I have suspected colitis. I presented several times in July to my surgeon with C diff symptoms but stool was either not tested for C diff or told it was "all in my head". FMT for C diff infections was actually discussed on this thread. It is a common remedy when several rounds of antibiotics don't work. It can be life threatening and I am very worried. Although still symptomatic, I am having to fight for a re test and further treatment. And no, I didn't research the hospital's C diff infection rate. I really wish I had. Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

Thank you! I am trying right now to get in to see my GP but they were closed this afternoon and my bariatric team didn't answer the phone. Found a specialist Consultant in C Diff infections in a nearby town but I need a referral from my GP. I have chills and sweats but no fever so I don't know if it is the C diff, the Flagyl or a new infection. Or even heat, it's really hot here today! Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

I don't have any sympathy for you. For a person who prides herself on being intelligent and factual, you have to be the most ignorant pre-op patient I've ever run into. If 4 years of intensive research did not uncover the issues u listed as "intolerable", it's no wonder u make emotional and illogical statements like "I will feel this way forever!" You don't have to know what to look for, or as u put it "know what u don't know", because it's all laid out for u by everyone who's come before u! 8 hours on YouTube and WLS forums easily answers any question u could know to ask as well as a million others u would never think of to ask. Newbies get yelled at daily by veterans for eating steak and burgers too soon, complaining about how the steak got stuck in their chest and hurt like hell for hours. I don't know what rock u were doing ur research from under, but it was not of this world. If u told me u hadn't done any research, then I would have believed u, because ur ignorance is way too extensive for u to have actually done any real research....either that or ur the worst researcher ever. I also can't fathom what idiot approved u for the surgery: no long-term history of obesity, no record of multiple attempts to lose the weight on ur own, a pre-existing issue of IBS even if currently controlled, and someone who clearly has a very negative outlook on things and is therefore mentally unfit to adapt to such a dramatic change. Lastly, ur statement about hating this forever is ridiculous and clearly emotionally driven because at 6 years out, ALL, as in EVERY SINGLE ONE of the issues u are complaining about will have gone away (yes, I'm 6 years out). But of course only someone ignorant to that fact would not know that, and only someone stupid would refuse the truth of it when told by those who do know. You're on of those people who enjoys misery, likes the drama and excitement from it, and especially all the attention and pity other ignorant people provide u in response to it. U won't see me trying to change ur mind. Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App Not really what part of this post is more laughable, the "text speak" or the inaccuracies! Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

BRAVO! I won't bore everyone with repeats of previous posts as people here love a reason to argue and it will start drama. I reply when I can because I believe it is polite and respectful. If someone takes the time to comment, I was raised to reply and be nice. I am American, and have been living in the UK for over 30 years now. I understand the high emotions, obesity problems and excess that the massive population there has. I personally didn't have a weight problem until I became disabled with diagnosed illnesses that meant that I was bedbound. So I have not had a long term weight issue, or food issue etc. I was not desperate nor incapable of losing weight either. The medications piled on lbs on too of needing to sleep 12 hours a day, not moving etc. I didn't have a myriad of obesity related diseases. I just got fat from not moving and not being well enough to shop, cook and eat sensibly. I was advised by consultants to have this surgery. I was told to take my Lyrica and accept my fate. And I did. My health condition has been dramatically worsened by this surgery. An impact that may take a fecal transplant, and months in a hospital hours away from my home to recover from. If I can fight hard enough for a referral. My colon appears to have damage (pseudomembranous colitis) because of the C Diff infection. This could lead to a colostomy. Being thinner is great, being unhealthy is not. I also appear to have developed a stricture but am not allowed in a clinical public setting until this course of antibiotics has finished. I am not beating myself up. I made a decision. It was mine to make. If the best surgeons here were wrong, why should I get upset with myself for being mistaken? Because I was so ill, I had to detox from diet drinks, medications, carbohydrates, caffeine, gluten, wheat, dairy etc. That is what can and will help me eventually. I have nothing to forgive myself for. Try to see this intellectually, without emotional words like forgiveness, beating myself up, or romanticising the issue. For some people, this surgery is a life saver. For me, it has been life threatening. I don't have the strength and immunity to fight off this C Diff. It kills thousands of people all over the world. And right now, I have no medical support to treat it. Just two weeks antibiotics and isolation. And I am moving house. Thank you for applauding that old post, but you don't have a clue! Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

In America, legal action would get you what you want. Don't know about NHS in England. I tend to expect the worse from the government...Now that I have Clostridium Difficile, and may have infected my family, I am re thinking my stance regarding legal action. If this drags on for months or if I wind up with even more serious problems such as bowel surgery, I may have no choice but to look into this. Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App Omg I had c diff for 3 weeks. Finally tested negative today!!Had c-diff also. Caused by the numerous antibiotics to treat the sepsis. If this was my biggest problem I would have been thrilled!! Oh no! Me also. Or I picked it up in hospital. In week two of 1200 mg a day of metronidazole. Still having symptoms, so much cramping and pain. How long did it take to clear yours? Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

No, I wouldnt have done anything at all. How are you feeling? Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

I really do wish you all the best, as I do everyone. I know that this surgery is really great for many people all over the globe. I feel quite special as I appear to be the only sleeve patient on the planet who has decided that this surgery was a mistake! Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

Thank you! I contracted clostridium difficile and am on heavy antibiotics. Obviously, both cause diarrhea. I am getting less calories than ever and now even my go to Soup option leaves me feeling as if food is sort of bubbling up and hanging around at the back of my throat, behind my chest. This is new! Thanks for your comments, I appreciate it, Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

Somebody will be along in a few minutes to tell you they spent two years taking bariatric support classes......learning all they could......then had the surgery now barely 8 weeks out they'll tell you it was a mistake, yada yada. Give that whatever credit you deem appropriate........and then listen to the vast majority of people who've had VSG surgeries. I think you'll conclude that most don't even have the stomach ache you mentioned. Just a bit of tenderness around the tiny sutures is all. Most are off all pain meds in a day or so. I was shocked at my low pain level. The only discomfort I had was from an abdominal hernia repair that was done with my sleeve surgery. Pleasantly surprised at the low pain level and fast recovery. To read some of the reports around here you'd think folks had been eviscerated by fire-breathing dragons.........get past those and read the opinions of the majority....... Aw bless! Thanks for thinking of me! Actually, if I was going to comment, (and I wasn't but I can see you want me to) I would say the same. My drain was an old fashioned one that was stitched to my upper abdomen. It didn't hurt, nor did my actual surgery. (No evisceration at all but love the Game of Thrones image!) You can't feel the drain, and when they take it out, you won't feel it. I wore a dressing gown with a pocket in so just tucked the drain bag into my pocket. My surgeon left that incision open to heal, not sure that happens everywhere. Took awhile to heal but I had hospital dressings that I changed myself until it healed. If the drain is your worry, you have no worry. Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

In America, legal action would get you what you want. Don't know about NHS in England. I tend to expect the worse from the government...Now that I have Clostridium Difficile, and may have infected my family, I am re thinking my stance regarding legal action. If this drags on for months or if I wind up with even more serious problems such as bowel surgery, I may have no choice but to look into this. Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App I've read about C Difficile several times lately. Is this something related to gastric sleeve surgery? Not really. I think any surgery or heavy duty antibiotic use can expose you to this infection. I am no expert. All I know is what I learned on the internet. Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

I wasn't catheterised either. Getting up straight away is important for recovery. Nothing is more encouraging for getting you out of bed than a full bladder! Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

That's great news! It is also great to hear that your hair grew back! Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

That's fantastic news. I wish you continued contentment. It's great to hear that you are okay. Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

Thank you! I hope you feel better soon. If you need a buddy, please let me know. Prayers coming your way. Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

Thank you! I too walk around a supermarket seeking a meal that won't waste money (my freezer is full of meals that have had one bite taken out of them), will please the sleeve and will add some Protein. I am moving house and it is hard to simply "grab some lunch" like everyone else. So I keep a banana and a bottle of Water on me all the time. It was easier before. Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

Thank you! My plan is to keep fighting to get back to where I was Healthwise pre op in the first instance. Obviously now, I will have to manage the C Diff issue and it's complications. It is a tough infection to cure. The percentages on reoccurrence are quite worrying. Once all that is under control. I need to concentrate on slowing down the weightloss. I am still losing between 5 and 7 lbs a week and only getting in between 300 and 400 calories a day. I need to get my Vitamins, minerals, Iron and nutrient levels sorted out. Once all that is completed, and this could take months to achieve, I then need to get back to my pre op routine. Seeing family, friends, neighbours,attending church etc. It is heartbreaking to be isolated from your family due to illness. Now I have to worry about who I infect with C Diff. On visits, I need to be conscious about using people's loos etc. Beyond that, I plan to develop a good relationship with a GP that has enough knowledge to help me get back to health and to get away from the bariatric system. I may have to pay privately for this care. As I keep saying, I don't live in regret. I live in a fight for my life. I believe that I have had C Diff for nearly eight weeks now and the inflammation, blood and mucous presenting, makes me fear that this situation may become even more serious due to the neglect of the bariatric team in post op care. My GP believes the bariatric team should be dealing with me and the bariatric team wants the GP to do it. Meanwhile, I am in trouble. I live my life deep in my Faith. And because I do, I am told that there is a plan for my life. That plan appears to be perseverance with grace. Ultimately, I plan to consult an NHS healthcare advocate. I am going to ask that my case be looked over to ensure that I get better care and other people don't have to go through all of this. If your query concerns my dislike of my sleeve, I accepted the ultimate responsibility for my mistake weeks ago. We all make mistakes. I made the decision in error. There is no point in dwelling on this as it is irreversible. Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App At 2 or 3 mos out, I was eating the same amount of calories and losing the same amount. I didn't have complications. I'm just saying that you're not any different in that area. My calorie rec was between 300 and 500 calories per day. Sent from my SM-G930T using the BariatricPal App I am sorry to hear that. My weightloss has been too rapid and is causing problems due to lack of ingestion of Protein, vitamins, iron and minerals. Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

I am hoping that this antibiotic course might just tame the beast! But I have been reading about FMT. Hoping that things won't come to that. Will look up that person's posts. Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

Oh yes! My life can't stop because of one mistaken decision. No matter how much all of this illness, infection, lack of nutrition tries to slow me down! I have a new home which is very exciting and gives me a non food focus. Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

I feel that the antibiotics are helping. I also took the advice and am taking probiotics. See, I am happy to say when things improve and get better! lol Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

That is wonderful! I am pleased that it worked out for you! Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

I wish you had that wand! I am thinking about bleaching my eyebrows and then dyeing them electric pink! Or rainbow colours! Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App