bshahn569

I am a retired/disabled construction electrician.  I was first told I had Rheumatoid Arthritis in 2002...worst day of my life.  With all the medications and the lack of doing physical daily labor and depression, I gained almost 100 pounds..to the point I do not recognize my own profile (or wish I didn't).I am tired of feeling fatigued and pain in my knees, ankles, and hips...so finally decided to do something about it.  With the help of my primary doctor (Candice Tung) she gave me 3 names of doctors.  I went on the internet and did a search of all 3 and decided to contact Dr. Umbagh.  I was given a bunch of papers to sign and a long list of things I needed to do prior to having any surgery.  Since I have R.A. the only surgery I am eligible for is the lap band...so that is the one I am going with.This is a whole new way of LIVING for me.  I am determined to loose weight.  As with quiting smoking....I am not trying to quit, I have quit....so therefor I am not trying to loose weight, I will loose weight.  I have chosen not to tell anyone about this surgery.  I did tell my daughter (I tell her everything) and my husband knows...but he is not in favor of this surgery.  My daughter is behind me, as is my doctor, the staff at the hospital, the doctor's staff, and I am sure other patients.  I feel bad my husband is not behind me, but this is something I am doing just for ME...too bad he doesn't like it, it will not stop me as I am that determined.I am scheduled for my first support group meeting tomorrow (2-20-2010) and my surgery is scheduled for Wednesday (2-24-2010).  I have already started my food journal and in there am writing down feelings also.  I am so excited to start my new life.