I made the mistake of reading the "Complications" board and now I'm scared

I have this fear that these complications are just the beginning. I usually am not pessimistic. I have had an incision that got infected -- no big deal. Then I had a stricture -- which ended up revealing a bleeding ulcer. Now I'm worried about fistulas, hernias, etc. etc. Did anyone else have these silly fears and how did you conquer them.

I made the mistake of reading the "Memorial" board before my surgery and I just had to "get a hold" of myself!! I immediately STOPPED reading the scary stuff and reminded myself of all the people who DO live and go on to have GREAT lives afterwards. I've not had ANY complications, but my advice is to NOT read the complication board any more. Your fears are NOT silly though and I can understand why you feel the way you do!! Complications are REAL and they are not fun, but they USUALLY do NOT go on forever!! Hopefully you've had all that you will have now. You've certainly had "your fair share and then some", so just try to be positive about the future. Do NOT ignore any future symptoms that you have though. That could be very dangerous!!! Keep in touch on this board. Many people have had complications just like you and are STILL here to "tell about it". Hugs, Pam

I didn't have those fears but mine was pretty cut and dry. I just wanted to tell you not to worry so much it's not good for you. Try your hardest to stay positive because that is the best medicine. A positive attitude can do alot to heal you. It will get better. Tina

Hi Lin, I'm probably going to get pelted for not being "cheery" enough here. First, your fears are not silly. Falling into a man hole and breaking your leg might be a silly fear, but the chances of having the things you mentioned are within the range of fairly common complications that "people of size" have and not just the ones who have had bariatric surgery. I'm not advocating that you "worry" about them. Educating yourself about some possible complications and ways (if any) to avoid them is a part of being a good mother to your son and good wife to Gary. I have a different take on some of this because I've had (since bariatric surgery) a really bad infection, an open wound, transfusions and hernias (much multiple). While it is sombering to think of them, most of these issues aren't linked to the bariatric surgery. I was predisposed because of my extreme obesity (350 to start) and all could have been a lot worse if I wasn't doing something already to get/keep my weight under control. Within the 14 months after bariatric surgery I had six more surgeries and hospitalizations. I wish I could tell you that these were silly fears. I *can* tell you without a doubt that I feel deep in my spirit that you and Gary can handle anything that comes your way. My husband had never packed an open, flowing wound or changed a wound vac, but his love for me led him to learn to help. Gary has some background in these areas and he's ready, willing and able because he loves you. You've heard from folks who never had a problem and now you've heard from someone who had all sorts of problems. In the long run, we are all healthier and successful in our journeys. The key isn't having an easy road to wellness; the key is being armed and equipment for the journey. You can and will make it. Let me know if there's anything I can do to help. All my best, Frances

Lin, the fears are real and it is important to know. You need to be so aware of your body and if something does not seem right them seek help from your doctor. Don't ever assume you are bothering them you have paid them for their help. The most important thing that I can say is (I know this is going to be hard) try to have a positive attitude. Tell yourself I am over the tough times and I am moving on. Try to think positive thoughts. I honestly believe a positive attitude will help. I really pray that all the bad is behind you and that you can move on to a better recovery. Bigs Hugs going your way, Jodi