Pre-Surgery

[reneat1021 1]

Hi, my name is Renea and I am still waiting on my surgery date. I have been thinking about having gastric surgery for a few years. I first had considered the lap band. The surgeon I have now and the hospital I go to only does the vertical sleeve. I had not done any research on the sleeve but the more I read about it and watch the testimonials I realized it was the best choice for me. I have seen the psychologist, had my gastro test and have seen the nutritionist one time. I have my second appt with the nutritionist on the 25th of June and all the docs will get together that week and decide if I am a good candidate. I'm pretty sure I will be. The reason I made up my mind to do the surgery is because two months ago I was diagnosed with diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. I came home that day with a bagful of meds and decided right then and there that's not what I wanted to do the rest of my life. On top of that I have no energy, feel bad about how I look and really want to be in good health so I can be around to see my grandaughter grow up. She is 3 years old now.

I really like this support group site. I think it will help me with my journey. My family and friends all support me on this but being able to talk to someone who has been through it is going to be wonderful.

[Almostthere34 128]

Welcome Reneat1021! I love this site. Everyone is so great and supportive. Glad to make your acquaintance.

[sdb1147 54]

I'm glad to be working with Swedish Hospital in Seattle, WA and Dr. McMahon & his team. At my first appointment I completed the psychiatric exam, initial meeting with the doctor, the insurance specialist, a nutritionist and nurse. Spent the better part of the day at the hospital, but it was worth it (saving time & additional appointments). All that's left is an Endoscopy & providing that goes well, then it's just a matter of waiting for final approval (Medicare/Aetna).

I wanted the sleeve, but unfortunately Medicare doesn't support it (pay) at this time, at least here in WA. So, I was left with two choices: Lap-Band RNY. Initially I was leaning towards the band, but after watching horror stories on YouTube & how many banders convert to sleeve or RNY, I'm leaning towards RNY.

Keep us posted on your progress.

[reneat1021 1]

Thanks for support and response, so fast!!! I am looking forward to getting to know you.

[Pookeyism 1,143]

When I met my Husband in 1999 I was a size16. Fast forward to 2007 while down from my largest (I dont know how big it was, 28 was tight and I refused to get on a scale once I weighed in at 296), so again down from my largest, but still a size 26 and 285 lbs or so, I am diagnosed with diabeties. I had the diabeties in control within a year I had 6.2 or better a1c, but never the weight. I initially lost to about 245 and would do that a few times.

The meds are so frustrating, you have to keep them with you, test, test,test...

I have been told I am not diabetic anymore. Actually the percentage of people who are in remission that have had the sleeve is very disproportionate to people who have just lost weight, and there is no clear answer why. Your chances of being in remission at some point is very good.

Good luck to you, and welcome to VST!