Second thoughts
You didn't specify what your intestinal problems are, so I don't know if my experience will provide you with any insight or not, but here goes.
I'd had two small bowel obstruction surgeries in the last 10 years ( plus a c-section, umbilical hernia and a hystericalectomy). So I was pretty much dead set AGAINST having another surgical procedure, except maybe an autopsy. I had issues with #2's and all, the LAST THING I wanted was to monkey around with my innards again. But I also had diabetes, my blood pressure was beginning to go up, and I had WAY too much joint pain to deal with. I pretty much accepted, on some level, that I'd be dead a long time before a person ought to be. Even seeing a couple of friends have a lot of success with WLS, I wanted no part of it.
Then my doctor asked me if I'd ever considered it. Twice, at two seperate appointments, 3 months apart. So I started thinking... maybe I should? I borrowed the Barbara Thompson book from my friend, and there were a number of things I read in there that just clicked with me. Comparing an obese persons metabolism/caloric absorption with a "normal" person. How the malabsorption works. It all made sense to me, like no "diet" ever did. And after a relatively short time, I knew it was MY answer. I was afraid that, because of all my other surgeries, I'd have to have it done open. But hey - so be it. The doc would probably be able to see what he was doing better, anyway! Right? So I pursued it, and here I am, 121 pounds lighter, after having the LAP RNY.
Do I still get nervous every time I feel something not quite right in my gut? SURE! But being committed to this tool, I know I'll get my butt in to see my Doc if I ever have any problems that I don't understand. I'M NOT AFRAID to go see my doctor anymore, 'cuz he doesn't focus on my need to lose weight anymore! He HUGS me, for God's sake! He's so happy for me, he HUGS ME!
And yeah, I hug him back. He's the one that got me thinking about doing this whole WLS thing in the first place.
I truly think you'll KNOW if it's right for you. You may still have fears and concerns, but if you feel it's YOUR answer, you'll just know. And if you reach that point, the $ will probably have a way of working out, if it's a payment plan, a second job, or whatever it takes.
Imperfect does not = unsuccessful
Janie,
As others have said - this has to be YOUR decision - take the time you need to make the right decision for YOU.
As far as the stomach/intestinal issues that you have already, some of them may clear up with this process. Of course, since I don't know what those issues are (and am not prying to find out) I can't state for sure, but you could talk to your doctor about it. He would have an idea if they could potentially clear up for you. I know that I used to have indigestion/heartburn ALL the time - haven't had ONE case of that since surgery - it is wonderful. I love spicy foods and had to always say "No thanks" to them in the past - now I can eat as spicy as I want without issues.
Again - do what is best for YOU. We will be here to support you in any way you want - even if you decide NOT to have surgery.
Best of luck in making your decision!
309/295/154.6/150 = Highest/Surgery Date/Current/Goal
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