New to site- would like some reassurance

Hi. I'm new to the site. I am been considering the surgery for 2 years and earnestly began the process with my new insurance company last February. I just committed with my counselor yesterday that yes I do want it. I am still scared to death. Everything I know about myself, the surgery and weight loss says this is the right step for me. But it is so difficult for me to commit to it and feel at peace. I am scared of the actual surgery, I'm scared for my health, I feel like a failure. None of it makes since to me as I know at my current weight and health status I am physically tired, sick and have no quality of life. I also know the surgery is just a tool and I will have to do the work when it is over.... but the feelings are still there. I have had one rejection by insurance company sense there was a recommendation from the psychologist they sent me to for counseling. I have been doing that and with my commitment to her yesterday she will now let the company know I have completed the counseling step, (I plan to still see her for support through this) so I think I will get a date scheduled soon. Any encouragement or words of help would be appreciated. Thanks so much. Dianna

Hello Dianna and welcome to AMOS, TH is is a life long commitment and the ongoing therypy can't hurt. We all were scared of the surgery. I don't think there is a doctor out there who would do it if you did not have some concerns. Be patient because this usually takes a little time. I am sure you will do just fine. Remember there is a lot of people here that can help you through this. Good Luck and God Bless. Richard

Hi Dianna, We all know about the nerves. I had so many emotions I didn't know I had so many. The week before the surgery was the hardest for me. As my husband was driving me to the hospital I was very calm. Very ready and excited to finally lose this diabetes and weight.Now 16 months later I am 155lbs and I feel wonderful. I think after 1 year I finally got it. It does take time to learn all about your new stomach. Its a real ride but I think so very worth it. We will all be here for you with any questions. Ask anything and remember there isn't a question you have, that we haven't asked ourselves. Good luck and remember we are here for you,Cindy

I was scared to death. This board helped me threw all my fears. I have heart problems I was so afraid of dieing in surgery. This surgery saved my life. You only hear about the bad stories never the good stories. I read so many profiles on this website. That is what helped me threw this also. Everyone blows this surgery way out of line. It is not as bad as I thought. Or as everyone gossips about. I am telling you how I feel. I never left my house. I had no energy for nothing. It killed my to walk 6 feet. My heart would start pumping I would be short of breath and ready to pass out. All I did was sit around and eat.. Today I am 9 weeks out of surgery. I have lost 52 pounds. I am walking on my tread mill 2-1/2 miles. I do my elliptcal 20 minutes a day 3 times a week. I do the dumb belles on my arms. I feel like I am 20 again. My heart feels healthy. I go in Jan I will see if it has improved. I think it has. I dont feel sick anymore. I eat healthy. I look healthy. I am happy. I am not embarressed to be seen in public. This surgery was the best thing I could have dont for myself. I feel wonderful. When I eat I feel content and full for 4 hours. I never have those hunger pains of wantng to eat until I am sick. I feel like a million dollars. I feel great. I am not the fattest in the room anymore. I wish everyone who wants this surgery could have this surgery. Happy Holidays Barb

Dianna, Here's the thing... It's truly a life or death situation either way. With surgery you are facing some risks, without surgery you are probably facing even greater risk in the long run. In considering surgery, you are taking a proactive role in making a healthier, longer life not only for you, but for your family. It takes courage, but it's the right thing to do! Good luck to you! Dr. C

Dianna, I agree with everything everyone has said. Especially Dr C. In my own case their were fears of complications, death and emotional fears of whether I would have the courage and committment to eat well the rest of my life. But I knew I was dying plain and simple. My heart would pound out of my chest just walking from the handicap parking space into the store. I had to catch my breath for 5 mins before I could even talk.. I weighed 310 pounds the morning of my WLS and now weigh in at 160 pounds. I am six months post op and have not ONE regret. Well, yes I do. Its just that I waited so long to have it done. I had 2 years of struggles with Ohio Medicaid to gain my approval, but that allowed me time to make 110% sure that I wanted it done and I was informed and prepared by that time. This group is the best place you could of come for support.. They helped me every step of the way and I learn something new every day. Keep stopping in!! If you ever need to talk feel free to send me an e mail. Big Hugs Laura 310/160/125 A Swimming Fool... Just call me Flipper.