Maggie13

Hello! I'm new to the forums. For the last two weeks, I have been reading stories of amazing transformations, overcoming hurdles, regrets and fears. It's positively overwhelming! I'm currently at 118kgs, 26 years old, have been overweight all my life due to many ailments that started around the age of 9. The weight gain was a side effect which, in turn, kickstarted PCOD, thyroid, Insulin resistance, fibromyalgia, deficiencies etc. To top it off, I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid arthritis 2 years back-which hasn't made things easier. My doctor has been suggesting a Bariatric surgery for a few years now, but I could never muster up the courage. Instead, I kept trying endless diets, fads, shakes, exercises etc. Always managed to lose between 6-10 kgs but it never sustained. Now that I'm unable to exercise due to constant pain, I've given up all hope of losing weight. Decided on getting a sleevetonomy 3 months back but was told have to get my ESR levels (due to RA) down first. I would really want to get the procedure done in November. Just wanted to ask if anyone ever had irrational thoughts and endless anxiety about the procedure? Cause it's keeping me up at night. I've never really gotten any surgery done, or even stayed at a hospital overnight. Anesthesia scares me, waking up mid-surgery scares me, endoscopies scare me, the thought of dying scares me, along with the stupidest things like not being able to wear innerwear during surgery, needing a catheter etc etc. I really need to overcome this!!! Did anyone ever experience similar bouts of panic? -Maggie

Hello! Stumbled on your reply. I too suffer from RA, and was just wondering if you had any issues while getting the surgery? Or after it? My physician has told me to wait till my ESR levels drop to 30-which doesn't seem to be happening even with Methotrexate. Did you have any side effects post surgery with pain flare up etc? Thanks!

I would be most anxious about the fact that I have to somehow repay you, hahaha. (My mind has absolutely no concept of gifts/free money.) But, yes, I do understand your point. I have already been daydreaming about traveling alone! As I've always been too self-conscious to be able to do that. Ah I'm getting pumped up now!

I needed to hear this. Thank you. My parents are so supportive but only people who are in the same situation can comprehend this fully. Hearing the same from you helps! Pain isn't an issue, I don't remember a time when I wasn't in pain. So that part should be the easiest one! I'm gonna hope this bout of anxiety passes and I can go ahead with the surgery next month. So glad you feel better, it's almost like being given a new lease on life, isn't it? At least, I hope so. Good luck for your journey ahead!