Pre Op thoughts?

Hi All - My surgery is scheduled for 2/22 with Dr. Peters. As I count down the days, I am becoming increasingly nervous and anxious. I often have thoughts of being the one freak experience where the whole surgery turns out to be a complete disaster. Please tell me that others have felt this way before surgery????? I have two smalll kids and the one thing I think about most is that there is a chance that they may have to grow up not knowing me (I know- negative and a bit morbid to say.) I am certain the surgery is the best course of action. I guess the anxiety is just starting to take over. Does anyone know if they give you something before surgery to calm your nerves? Regards, AG

Hi Angela, First of all, congrats on the surgery date!!! The best thing i can tell you is that you are in excellent hands with our great docs. i have met Dr. Peters, but Dr. Wynn performed my surgery. I have all the confidence in the word that our docs are the most experienced in this and will make sure that everything will come out fine. To be nervous and anxious is very common. I felt that i was very calm....although my family has mistaken my wise cracks and joke making the morning of surgery as a sign of nervousness. Oh, and your children WILL grow up knowing you, just a smaller version of you! I'm not sure if they give you anything prior to surgery to ease the nerves, i didn't need anything, so i can't answer that one for you, but this is an awesome group and maybe someone will be able to have more input on that for you! 2/22 will be the first day of your "new" life....and it will be worth every minute of it!! Take Care and the very best of luck to you! If you need anything, just ask....mayself and everyone on this board is here for you! -joe-

Angela, I agree with everything Joe said. You will be in great hands. I know how you feel..I have 3 small children..and thats what scared me the most. But, now..almost a year since my surgery..I can do so much more with my kids..I can PLAY with them..and participate in their activities. Just try to find some peace, and pray about it. Do what you feel you need to do..but know..what I have gained from this surgery has been so much more valuable. I know that I won't have as many regrets now..that I can participate in my children's lives even more. Just take this pre-op time to think about how you arrived at this decision and try to find a comfortable place. I admit..it took me right before they wheeled me in. What kinda helped..is that my 4 year old made me a bracelet that she requested that I wear during surgery..and I asked that they not remove it. For some reason, that really gave me strength. Look within for your strength and just hug your kids! My heart is with you! Kimberly

Hi Angela, Let me tell you, I went through every emotion under the sun and then did it again! A few weeks before I was to go, I had a mega meltdown, then I was calm. The morning of surgery, I kissed my kids goodbye at 4:30 AM and headed off to the hospital. I won't lie, I cried all the way there, but it was a strange mixture of fear and joy. I kept right on goinf because I just knew that despite my fear, everything was going to be just fine. I stayed focused on the future. My hubby would say things like...when you are able, we are going back to W. Va. to hike that mountain you've always wanted to...or just think, in a few months when we take our annual camping trip you will be able to ride all the amusement rides with the kids. Things like that, focusing on the new life waiting for me was critical. Take a deep breath, know that you've chosen the best surgical team ANYWHERE and hang on for the roller coaster ride of the century! Linda

AG- My birthday, 2/22. I just had surgery on 1/18/05. It didn't hit me until they wheeled my back. I cried like a child and was worried. I think that it would be a warning sign if you did not feel scared. Being scared is normal. I thought that I was this strong gal until I looked at my man and started to cry wondering if I would ever see him again, was I doing the right thing, was I crazy for doing this.... Well, 19 lbs and 2 weeks later I am happy. I had both open and closed surgery and I feel pretty good. You are in great hands. I have meet Dr. Peters a few times and he always makes me laugh... Good luck and I'll keep you in my prayers. Jen

So ... what? ...Did your phone stop working? Call soon! -S

I agree with Jen. It wouldn't be normal to not feel a little fear at this point. Trust in your decision. My surgery was rescheduled a few times because of insurance issues. The night before the first date, I was on my fast and I posted about how it had just ocurred to me that I may have been a little selfish taking this risk when I have children who need me. Everyone responded and told me that they felt the same way. I, then took a step back, deep breaths, and was calm and trusted all my research in this matter. Anyway I was canceled-- but after that day, I never felt that way again. I was at such peace with my decision after that. I am 6 mos out and down 95lbs and have NEVER felt better. It was the best thing I have ever done for myself, as well as for my children. I wish you peace in your journey. Dianne

Thanks to everyone for sharing. Your experiences are all very encouraging. Also, congrats to everyone on your success with weight loss. I cannot wait to share my success story soon!! Jenn H- Happy (early) Birthday!!!

Thanks for the birthday wish. Can't wait to hear your success story. 21 pounds down today!