10 days till surgery in Oz

haven't logged in for a long time... did get a lot of info from you guys that helped me with my decision back in January and February. Dr. Stevens in Junction City required me to lose 30 lbs pre-surgery, reduce fat in the liver, size of the liver... was originally to have surgery April 6, but was only as -26 and his 'minimum' loss was 27 lbs. BUT i severely hurt my knee the week before and just could not do BOTH sets of pain at once... so it all turned out all right. So now, surgery is May 4, and I am down 30 lbs as of Friday, April 22. Lots of salad and protein shakes and WATER! My knee is very unstabile, and it has really put a 'kink' in my walking program, but have continued to ride my AirDyne bike. Even that really flares up the knee. I saw an ortho surgeon and i do need it 'scoped', but not till under 300 lbs, ideally closer to 250. THIS surgeon was pleased that i had the surgery scheduled and was very supportive... I went to one 4 years ago who practically screamed at me, making me feel like a low-life, accused me of 'drug-seeking', it was a NIGHTMARE! But now like i said i have connected with a compassionate surgeon and feel good about that. I do eventually need a 'total knee', but the longer i wait the better technology will be in place... I am only OCCASIONALLY spastic about the RNY surgery now...! ;-} I really have a deep peace about it... lots of prayer and prayer support have led me to this place, i know. Everything has fallen into place, i have had a LOT of support from friends at work and my one sis i am close to. I welcome any good words of support from you guys who have been thru surgery already..... Any others have surgery in Junction City that live in the Wichita area? I know I'll need carpool buddies for post-op support group!

Hi Anita! I am in Lawrence, so I cannot help you with carpooling, but Dr Stevens was my surgeon too and he is wonderful. So is the hospital care at Geary County. I could not be more pleased with my surgical experience in Junction City. I think he has everyone lose that 30 pounds!! I only lost 27, but still had surgery on time. My knees are shot too, but sooo much better. My surgery was Nov 3, starting weight was 430 and am down to 311 as of today. You didn't mention your age, but I am 53. Feel free to contact me f you have any questions about Dr Stevens (you will love Carla his nurse too!) or the hospital. hugs Joan

thanks for the good words! I am 49, starting at 408 lbs and down 29 (that dreaded 30 is eluding me..!). It HAS helped me get mentally ready and feel a little bit better physically too, i can tell the diff in the seat belt, for instance.... I WILL keep in touch, Joan! THANks for the support! anita

Well, You are close enought to 50... come on over to the "Over 50 Forum"! There are tons of nice people there and the board is real active with both pre and post-ops. I have throughly enjoyed chatting with everyone there. Every day and every pound is making such a difference in my life. Sometimes I truely amaze myself. Anyway, check out the "OFF: board. It is so much more active than the Kansas board. I have tried to pump up this board many times.