New here... scared to death!

Hi everyone! My date is August 25! I am excited but very nervous, and I'm sure all of you are. I was wondering how many of you have read the memorials on here? It's certainly a good things to do, but it can make the nerves worse! Has anyone discovered a cure for the "nerves"?

Boy do I hear you!! My date is August 24 and I've been scared to death by the memorial page as well. I don't know the cure for nerves I wish I did. I asked my surgeon what her mortality rate was and she said she has done 80 of these WLS and hasn't lost anyone. But of course, instead of feeling relieved I think oh oh she is about due to have her first fatality. I know thinking like that is and it only makes things worse. I guess you have to let go say a prayer and go in with a determined and positive attitude. With an experienced physician the mortality rate is .5% or 1 in 200 patients. 198 people come through with flying colors and changing their whole lives for the better! Good luck to you I'll be watching the boards to see how things went. Please be sure to let us know

Hi Karen, I understand your nerves are getting to you... just think of it this way, the mortality rate is higher with doctors who have less than 75 surgeries under their medical belt. And since, that rate is taken into account for the overall mortality rate, your doctor has passed the learning curve.... Good luck on your date... you are in my prayers! Bridget Lap RNY 8/8/05

Hi, Clarissa! Congratulations on your date! WOOHOO!! I completely understand about your nerves. I think the only cure is a good stiff drink! Aside from that, I found that taking control of the situation makes me feel better. Rather than sitting back and waiting to be told what to do, I ASK what needs to be done to ensure my surgery is successful. For example, during my PreOp tests yesterday I talked at length with my Anesthesiologist about my meds. Which ones should I stop taking before surgery? How far out do I stop taking them? Why? Which ones can I take the day of surgery? What about my vitamins? etc. This is where I learned that some vitamins in specific doses can cause blood clotting. By taking charge of things on your end, you will suddenly feel very confident. "Okay, I've done everything I was supposed to. The docs will do the same. Everything will be fine". Check with your doctors and nurses and ask as many questions as you can. This will make you feel so much better. Good Luck! Cheers! Becca

I'm feeling ya clarissa just go my date yesterday for the 17th of aug. i have read the memorials and that is what scares me soooo bad i have been trying to read more of the good stuff. Bless you, and good luck