Hey everyone,

I just decided to start up a new facebook group for any patients who are in the program in Richmond with Dr. Nguyen or Dr. Sampath.  You can find it at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/westcoastwlssupport/

There are a lot of people going through Richmond and we all have questions and concerns specific to the program and what our surgeons expect of us.  I'm hoping to arrange meetings eventually as we expand, but it's quite difficult at the moment because there are patients all over the lower mainland and other parts of BC who are at different stages in the program.  This group is just a starting point -- network, make some WLS friends, ask questions, meet some exercise buddies, share info and recipes, etc etc :)

I know I had a lot of questions, curiosities and changes to deal with while I was waiting for my initial consult, and even now as I approach my surgery date.  I feel like we can all be successful if we help each other along the way or turn to others when we need support.  We are not alone :) If we look to those who know and understand exactly what is expected of us in this particular program, it makes the journey so much smoother -- I was fortunate enough to meet some wonderful ladies along the way and it has made me realize that we can never have too much support!

This group is not tied to GWC or the surgeons, it's just another avenue of support for those interested in networking with other patients who have the same surgeon.  This group is not meant to replace any other resources or support groups.  Read your books, listen to your specialists, get to know others, go to your local meetings and appreciate what the long-term post-ops have to share.  There is always more to learn! 

For those who do not use facebook, please contact [email protected] to be added to a mailing list for upcoming events or meetings.


https://www.facebook.com/groups/westcoastwlssupport/

wow that is great

Has anyone had lapband surgery in Kelowna?  Looking for some feedback on the clinic/surgeon.
Thanks Rhonda

Congrats on an awesome job!!!!  It's amazing the difference this surgery can make in your life, I too am so glad that I made the decision to have this surgery!!!  Keep up the awesome work and good luck with your 10K.

So, I am just over 7 months out from my RNY surgery in November, and so far things are going good. I am having issues with low iron levels, so I spoke with my GP, and he recommended something for me to take. Whether or not it works I will see come my next blood work in August, but I have fingers crossed. I still find I lack an appetite most days, and food doesn't have the appeal to me it once did, but I am sure in time that will come back.

My husband and I have signed up for a 10K run in October through Stanley Park, and I am planning on signing up for the BMO 1/2 Marathon come next May. I'm definitely not a quick runner, but it's something I enjoy doing, and I've found that I definitely will never again take for granted the fact that I am capable of walking or running without feeling like I am going to have a heart attack.

I still have some "dumping" issues with foods, and there's really no rhyme or reason to when it happens. I can dump on chicken, seafood, rice, beef, vegetables, randomly it really depends on how my body is feeling, and it sucks. The only thing I know is when I do dump, I stay as far away from that food as possible. Gluten really bothers me, so I try gluten free products when I can, and always do my best with staying as sugar free as possible. But it happens now and again still.

Definitely glad I made this choice, despite the small hiccups I have had, and I am thankful that I am able to get back to being healthy, which I haven't been since before I graduated.