Do I belong here?

I was recently referred to the Red Deer clinic by my family doctor. The research I have done shows that I am a candidate for the lap band but he has shown me that the sleeve is a much better option

I barely qualify with a BMI of 34.9 and osteoarthritis.  My first diet was when I was 12 years old. After doing the yo yo for 40 years I need something to help keep the weight off.  I don't want to be told I'm too small for surgery!  

How long does it take to get your invitation to the information session?  Will the other patients be angry that I am there and only need to lose 60 lbs?  The most weight I've ever lost is 20 lbs and it always creeps back. I need help

My sis, husband and daughter are all sleeved, and all had a starting BMI of 32-33. Admittedly we were all sleeved in Mexico, but it doesn't change the fact that it was an excellent choice for all. I see no value in waiting until you are larger (perhaps with a BMI of 47, like I had?) then having the surgery. Hold your head high and go for it - your life is going to be SO much better!

Kelly-Anne

Thanks for the words of encouragement.  I need to know there are others out there like me!

If your doctor thinks this is the best option for you, then don't worry about what anyone else thinks.  No one but you and your doctor understand your personal struggles and health issues.  I have just had my surgery through the Red Deer clinic...I was referred in August 2012 and had my first information group session in April...they will explain to you in that session that surgery isn't for everyone, and that they have patients who don't go the surgery route, patients who they just help adjust their eating habits.  You'll have to start keeping a food journal and going to monthly appointments...if you do decide to go the surgery route, you'll have to lose at least 10% of your body weight and they'll have you on a one-cup per meal diet.  If you have any questions about things, let me know, I'd be happy to help.  

Everyone's journey is different and for different reasons.  Don't let the fact that you don't have as much to lose as someone else stop you.  

There is a lightweight forum here that you will be able to find people to relate to if you like.  

Good luck to you!

Hi there!!

I am also currently in the Red Deer Bariatric clinic.  I dont know about how strict they are with the criteria of the BMI and such however I do know that Red Deer does not encourage the lap band and also they discourage people from that.  I believe if I remember correctly the nurse in the pre-surgery meeting stated that they have done less than three lap bands from what she has been told.  If your doctor is recommending the sleeve, that is most likely the better choice but you should research all the options out there for that is something they do ask you about (to see if you are aware of all the differences between the different surgeries). 

As far as other patients being angry, that would be surprising to me if that was the case.  When you go to any group meetings, you will see people with all different sorts of body types and sizes.  I doubt that people would judge or be out right angry.  After the group meetings, all your appointments are all by yourself with whatever health professional you are to see.   If you are in the waiting room there is no way to know what stage of the journey a patient is on.  I think that you should just go in armed with information, knowledge and courage.   Dont let what others may or may not think be your deterrent!  You can do this!

Thank you Shelly!  This is the positive encouragement  I need!

I have been trying to read as much info as possible and yes I believe the sleeve would be the right surgery for me.  The current info on banding is not positive! My Dr has had me on NSAIDs for over 5 years to help with my  arthritis. Unfortunately I have been having knee and hip pain that I haven't experienced before.  I find it difficult to go horse back riding and skiing is not as much fun. I'm not ready to just sit in a chair!  Too much life left in me lol. Have you had your surgery?  If so, has it been positive?

I started in the clinic the start of August this year and the beginning of December I met with Dr. Ferris (one of the surgeons at Red Deer) again and he has me now on the list for surgery as I have lost my manditory 10% or more.  I have heard that it could be a few months before I get a call for my surgery date though so I will just keep doing what I have been doing. 

I have a friend who just had the surgery in Red Deer with Dr. Ferris in November and she is doing excellent.  I am hoping soon to be able to claim the same.

I am glad to have been a little bit of help.  I know that it can be scary, intimidating, and down right terrifying at times to do this journey.  One thing I WISH I had known is that people bring a support person to their first orientation meeting.  I think that would be very helpful and it would give you that personal level of comfort in what can be a very uncomfortable process.   I have since had my daughter with me at some of the appointments, not for encouragement for I feel fine and confident with the appointments now but it is also great to have a loved one be present to hear all the information first hand as well as they have the chance to ask questions from a support person's point of view.  

Good luck to you!