Wake up Call

Hello Group! I want to thank everybody for all the support and encouragement I am receiveing. I was just replying to Lenny when It dawned on me I was really given a great gift yesterday at the VA. I had injured my Left eye two weeks ago playing with my dog and it temporiarily has blinded me in the left eye. A blood clot has formed, which has to disolve, before they can do laser surgery on the retina. Because of that accident the Doctor discovered I was suffering from a diabeticly caused condition that causes blindness if not treated. Yesterday they completed laser surgery on my right eye that caused me to be almost totally blind until about an hour ago. I could be somewhat fuctional and see shapes and light but it is something I wouldn't want to wish on my worst enemy. The bottom line is, it motivating me even more to get on with my pre-op program and to help spread the word about how devasting the complications of morbid obestity can be by just having had a first hand experience of "REAL BLINDNESS" and the fear on how awful that could be Also, I have had my blood sugar under excellant control my last glucose was 5.2% better than most non-diabetics, the doctor told me this happened years ago and people who had diabetes should have their eyes checked three times a year. I hope to go off of insulin when I lose the weight but I fear some of the damage has been done. Earl

Earl Everything happens for a reason, I truely believe that. Do not look back only forward. All my best to you Joanie

Joanie, I was so grateful to my dog, Woody I bought him a bunch of good Marrow Bones as a reward If I didn't get to the ER I really could of gone blind. Thanks, Earl

Earl, diabetic retinopathy is only one complication of diabetes. You will likely need a vitrectomy to remove the blood and vitreous from the eye. Diabetes is a slow killer, but it is slow and steady and always finishes the job unless treated. You will need to get that under control, or will face heart attacks, strokes, amputations, peripheral neuropathy, and a host of other problems. I'm pretty sure your physician has explained this, and if not, find another doctor. Losing even 20 lbs can have a positive effect on your sugar levels. As several others have said, weight loss surgery is not for everyone, but it sounds like you need to make some difficult choices soon or risk further damage. Good luck, and keep us posted on your progress. --Steve