My story for those on their journey...

[now2children 12]

I try to keep private, and sometimes that opens you up to rumors from people who do not understand. On April 29, 2015 I started a journey to better health. 45 yrs old and on multiple meds for serious health issues. I made an appt to learn about weight loss surgery. I did not want gastric bypass for personal reasons, but was planning on VSG. I learned all I could and decided I was going to try it "on my own". After all, was I really that out of control that I needed surgery to help? At what was going to be my last appt with the bariatric dr, I moved and brought out a pain (that I had been dealing with for awhile), which brought me to more tests. Needed to have surgery quickly anyway so let's go ahead with the sleeve. Surgery was 9-30-15. Everything was fine, up walking etc. On 10-1-15, during a walk, I started with difficulty breathing, slight chest pain, the most horrific experience. I had a bi-lateral PE. I was terrified. I was rushed to CICU. I owe everything to Mission Hospital rapid response team! The PE had caused right side heart damage. No one is certain that it was due to surgery, my ankles had been swollen. Why did I get a second chance? Now I am 115lbs down, still working on it, off oxygen, down 5 sizes, and am off 4 meds. I am no longer considered diabetic, no longer worry about hypertension or cholesterol. Did I take the "easy way out"? Hell NO! It's harder to deal with everything. I am an addict, food has never let me down and always there! But I AM the one in control. I AM the one counting all Protein grams and carbs. I AM the one who makes the choice to work out or not. I AM doing the work. The sleeve doesn't reach up and grab the steering wheel to stop me from turning into McDonald's! It is a tool and a coach that helps me get back on the field after a stupid move. I can read, but my glasses make it easier. Same thing. I deal with my choices now, the same as an alcoholic or other addict deals with theirs. I know one certain drink or food and I would be right back out of control. People judge if you aren't the norm, and also judge if you don't conform the way they think is right. Whatever is right for you is right! I have learned so much about me over the past months and found out about more health issues I didn't know I had, because of the testing I have went through. Dropping the mic and stepping down now.

[James Marusek 5,244]

Congratulations on your weight loss and overcoming your problems along the way. The development of blood clots after surgery is one of the major risks associated with this surgery because the Pulmonary embolism (PE) can cause a blockage in the arteries that lead to your heart. So it is good that you survived this episode.

I remember having to administer blood thinner shots every day for a week to myself after surgery to prevent this condition. But I guess giving myself the shots was nothing compared with what you went through.

[1Day1Life4Now 882]

@@now2children, thank you for sharing your story. So happy you are doing well now and that you have won the battle of control over food. Keep up the good work.