Surgery at the Alex Sept. 27

Hi everyone
I am booked for RNY surgery with Dr. Karmali at the Royal Alex hospital in Edmonton on Sept. 27th. I start my 3 week liquid diet on Mon. i have been worried about that part of it for a while but this week find that I am actually excited to get started on my journey and look forward to Mon!

My emotions are still running between excitement and fear about the surgery itself but reading the posts on this forum has helped a lot.

Anyone else had RNY with Dr Karmali and would like to share their experience? What was your stay at the Alex like, I have heard good things and bad things about this hospital. What should I pack to take to the hospital with me?

Does anyone know of a support group for people who have had WLS in the Edmonton area.?

Thanks for listening
Joanne

Hi Joanne:

I did not have surgery with Dr. Karmali.  I had an RNY with Dr. Birch.  So I can't comment on the Doctor part but everything else I can. 

My experience in the Alex was a positive one.  They try to help as much as possible.  I didn't feel comfortable going home on the Thursday (I had surgery on the tuesday) so they let me stay until the Friday.

For the hospital bring slippers or shoes - something that is easy to slip on and off.  A house coat and comfy clothes to go home in.  I also packed a book and music but in all honesty, if I wasn't sleeping I was up walking around so there wasn't too much time to read - I really didn't feel like reading much at all.

Yes there is a support group in Edmonton for people who have had WLS....or even for people that are looking into WLS or people that are just wanting support with weight loss - doesn't mean you have to have surgery to come to the group - but most people in the group have either had surgery or are waiting....

Our next meeting is on September 26, at 5:30pm in the Jean Hamiliton room at the Alex (same building at the Weight Wise Clinic)  (Can someone correct me from the group if I'm wrong on the date please..)  You can also look up Edmonton Bariatric Support Group on Facebook as well as yahoo Groups...

Let me know if you have any other questions!  And you will do great on your surgery!

Thanks so much for the info. Sept.26 is the day before my surgery so won't make that meeting but would be interested in attending meetings at a later date.

when did you get your call with your date?  I am waiting for a call and have no idea how long I will have till surgery??

i am so excited for you.... you're i for a wonderful life changing experience.... whoot woo...