New Member....Scheduled for VSG 09/20/10

[Amari 0]

Hi folks,

I'm a new member to VST but have been lurking around for a bit, reading so many stories of your journeys with VSG. After reading so many positive reviews, today I scheduled VSG with Dr. Aceves for 09/20/10.

When I first considered the surgery, my first response at having surgery in Mexico was "NO WAY am I having surgery in Mexico!" But in reading reviews of Dr. Aceves and the hospital there in Mexicali, any fears I had have been alleviated. It was good to see the stories of several nurses who have gone there for the procedure, as I'm a nurse myself. And I know that if the facility can pass a "Nurse's Inspection", then they definitely are doing the right things.

Actually, as I type this, it's at least the third time that I've broken down in tears today (and it's only 12:28 PM!): Tears when I found out my flexible spending account will reimburse me very quickly after submitting the documents.....tears after I scheduled my appointment with Nina at Dr. Aceves office.....and now tears to know my journey finally begins....tears of joy....fear....anticipation. Somehow, I think there are more of those to come.

So at 5'4" and 360 pounds, it's a scary proposition to have such a life-changing event happening so soon. So much to do. Pennies to pinch so that I can self-pay....arrangements to make for flights, animal care, a leave of absence from work, and more.

I've decided to start a lot of the "self-prep" now....two months out from surgery (actually 49 days....I just counted!....wow). So the Multivitamins are on the way....biotin to try to combat the hair loss...whey-protein shakes sweetened with stevia (it took me a while to hunt those down online, having a long-standing aversion to artificial sweeteners)....inventory of hospital appropriate jammies is underway. lol

Along with my joy, there's also a great sense of frustration with the health care system here. I work for a hospital which has a surgical group which performs the VSG.....yet the hospital's own employee health insurance lists the VSG in the infamous "Investigational & Experimental" category. There's a part of me that wants to fight with the insurance company to get them to cover it. But I need to concentrate my efforts on what has essentially become a fight for my life. And I think my high blood pressure, bad knees and hip, and my system in general are probably in agreement that my energy is finally going in the right direction on this. The phrase from that Larry the Cable Guy comes to mind: "Git er done!" (Do you think Nike would have been successful with that phrase which is essentially a different version of "Just Do It"? Sorry....I have random thoughts sometime.)

So here we go...on what might be one of the most exciting rides of my life. I'd better put more boxes of tissue on my list!

Amari

[3636millie 3]

Amari,

Congratulations on getting your date!!! This will be the best thing you have ever done for yourself. You will have many different emotions but this is normal. Just try to relax and "enjoy the ride" so to speak.

Before I started my weight loss journey I never dreamed I could feel this good, both physically and mentally. You will not believe how quickly you will start to feel the effects of the loss of weight on your body!!!

Just hang out here and another good site is obesityhelp.com. Learn, read, etc. There are wonderful people on both sites that want you to be successful. Lots of good advice and encouragement.

Best wishes and I'll be saving a spot for you on the loosers bench!!!

[Mary Gordon 3]

Hi Amari: welcome to the forum, you have definitely chosen the best doctor and staff. Dr. Aceves and Dr. Campos are very reliable and professional. Nina is always there to answer your questions and help in every way. Every penny will be worth it.....so goodluck and enjoy your new journey to weight loss!!!!:scared0:

[wannabethin 0]

Welcome Amari and best wishes on your journey. I do not have my date yet, but expect it to be in September too!

Renee

[Calgarygirl 0]

Hi

What a wonderful story, it made me smile... Im just the day before you... Sept 19th with Dr.Pompa in Mexico and I so thought the same thing at first, Mexico lol No way!! As if my doctor will approve this one lol. But after lots of research and lots or reading and this fantastic website, Im off to Mexico!! Ive ordered all my Vitamins here too, I never thought Id have so many until I was 70 lol ... Im very excited though, 40 days to go!! We will be September sleeve sisters soon enough!!! Very exciting!!!

But yes youre right, the hospital pjs and robe... argh!!! what to wear?! This might be a forum question!! I dont think I really have anything at this point ... thanks for posting and I look forward to staying in touch with everyone

[1badkitty 0]

Congrats! I'm scheduled with Dr. Aceves on the 9/25 so I'll be coming as you'll be going...I'm excited and nervous and everything in between but as you can see - there's lots of support. I hope all goes well for you!

[jkpeagle 0]

Good luck! be prepared for a major change!! 2 months post op and down 80#s!!!!!!! fitting into clothes that have been in closet a loooonng time! The only thing is I have a lingering bad taste in my mouth when I eat. hoping it goes away. Former chocoholic and have no desire for it now. Love and have craving for starburst....go figure. feel free to contact me for help!!:blushing:

[Calgarygirl 0]

WOW!! 80 pounds in 2 months, how exciting!! I cant wait, I am so happy for you Jeffer!! MY skinny clothes are waiting lol ANd Im so glad you say that about chocolate, its the only thing I dont know if I can do without, so Im so glad you say that!! Congrats on the loss so far!!