Insulin Dependent

Hi, I have been debating on whether or not to get WLS. I have a BMI of 42. I have been Insulin Dependent for 3 years. One of my big issues would be getting rid of the insulin. That would be so wonderful to not have to take needles anymore. I was wondering if there is anyone out there who was on insulin and had WLS. If so, do you mind sharing whether or not you still have to take insulin? Any comments would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Christy

I personally am not, but I think there is some people. But maybe they can help. Christie

Christy, I have been a diabetic for 20 years and have been insulin dependent for at least the last 12. I had WLS on June 14th and at first I was off all my insulin and now I am taking around 6 units a day. I was taking about 90 units before surgery. My doctor feels that there is a chance that I will go off of it all together at some point but I am please with the progress I am making. I am no longer taking oral diabetic meds which I was taking along with the insulin before. Hope this helps. Ellen

Welcome, Christy. Doesn't apply to me, but I think there are a lot of people whose diabetes is in remission after surgery. I was always borderline, and I know this surgery is why I am not a diabetic now. Just wanted to welcome you to the board.

Christy, Funny you should post tonight. I just got off the PA board and there is a post on there by MaryAnn Miller "happy, happy, happy" updating everyone on her insulin reductions 2 weeks post op. She's thrilled w/WLS! I'm always interested in posts on the subject as its my reason for investigating this surgery too. I just came from a diabetes mgmt. seminar tonight and it was soooo depressing. My BMI is 49. I'm on pills and Lantus but the doc wants to switch me to 4 rapid release shots a day....It's sinking in more and more I see statistics etc. that WLS is MYway to go. I ASKED for any info re: diabetics and gastric bypass (not something they usually volunteer even though there were at least 5 morbidly obese people in my class); low and behold I got a great article on the subject and encouragement from the RN running the session. What I don't like and people don't know til they have it, is that diabetes is such a high maintenance disease and needs to be pampered and babied all along the way to prevent complications. They've learned quite a bit in the last few years but quite frankly, for myself, that really takes too much of my time which I'm pressed for as it is. I'm 41, have a 4yo running me around and a husband just diagnosed with MS, we're both on shiftwork which makes for crazy scheduling for all and have two elderly, disabled parents we care for. No time for another high-maintenance disease in my house. If I can save my organs 15 or 20 years doing RNY I'm thinking that's a pretty good return on investment. Christy, do your research and ask alot of questions. Good luck with whatever decision you make. Feel free to email me if you've got any questions I can help with. Jackie