Suzanne T. - now VSG in Hfx

Hey everyone, 
 
Just thought I would give a separate update to alleviate some confusion. A few people on various discussion threads are thinking they've gone crazy, as my posts now have to do with Halifax info sessions, consults and VSG. After being contacted on Monday, Feb 9, I was invited to the Halifax Info Session regarding the Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy. I have researched it, and I feel it's the right surgery for me, as it has a lower risk immediately and later on. There is no malabsorption (no bypassing with the intestine) of vitamins and minerals, and no dumping. I do not have a sweet tooth anyway, so I don't need the threat of dumping to avoid them.

So, I postponed my consent signing with Dr. B indefinitely, and will wait for my consult here in Halifax (they said it would be May - here's hoping...). Surgery is typically a month or so after that. Hopefully I'll be sleeved and home by end of June. If anything goes off course here in Halifax, I can still pick up the ball with Dr. B. He is learning the VSG, so I think I'd try to get him to do instead of the RNY. Thanks everyone, for all of the interest and support in my process. I don't think that my situation is common. After waiting for eight years in Halifax, what are the chances that I'd get my call right before signing with Dr. B????? I say it's the universe trying to tell me something!  

I am very glad for you Suzanne!

It was probably very hard for you to go to the information session and "second guess" you surgery choice ... but that just shows how important it is to research, get second opinions and truly find the surgery that will suit you for a lifetime. 

Unfortunately, in this time and place we are at - where there are only a few doctors and large waiting lists - sometimes one feels pressured to simply accept what they can have right now.  Yes, there are times when it is a medical necessity, or finances are involved etc, but in the bigger cities in US or Europe where there are so many doctors within a few hours drive, people really have options.

I truly believe if something is meant to be, it will happen ... but we do need to be open to the possibility - not coincidence - but God in His time.  So I feel blessed to have the option of waiting for my surgery, even if I do have to travel a few hours rather than 15 minutes locally.  And I think you just needed that call to take the time and look over the VSG option and feel better about choosing that surgery for you - so congrats!

Just remember ... up until the moment they put you under for the surgery you can still change your mind!  It is your body, your life and your choice.

M

Thanks, Michelle. You're right, we're in charge. It is weird to think that others may have a choice of surgeons and procedures, but here in our area we ARE at the mercy of the waiting lists and limited surgeons. Thank the universe that I got the opportunity at the right time.

Suzanne