New to the board

Hi,

I am starting my journey and the referral went in this week for surgery in Guelph. I never thought in a million year I would be back in the place I am. I had gastric band surgery in Aug 2010 and was successful for 4.5 years and lost 150 lbs. Things started to go wrong and I became really sick, vomiting everything- liquids and solids and blood. I had emergency surgery on Dec 26, 2014 and the band was removed. I have absolutely no brain - stomach connection after 4.5 years with the band and have gained a staggering 75lbs since January 2015. I hate the way I feel and more then ever feel like a failure because I couldn't keep it off.  My dr agreed that bypass would be a good option as I have had success in the past. I'm scared about the journey, the risks and complications. I have two young children and want them to have their healthy mom back and for my daughter in all of her innocence to stop saying I have a marshmallow tummy. I know the process is long. Has anyone else had their surgery in Guelph? What was the process like for you and the wait times? What is post op care like?

Welcome. 

You've had quite a time over the past few years, I wish you all the best on this new road.

Hello and welcome to the board.  Guelph is my centre, and the process took just over 1 1/2 years for me from referral to surgery.  The staff are very nice, and the post care so far has been good.  Dr. Reed was my surgeon and he can be a little abrupt in his manner, but I had read that on this forum so I was prepared.  I have seen 4 Nutritionists there during the before and after care, and they all have different views on carbs, protein shakes, and calorie guidelines.  Good luck.  Why not join our What are you eating/doing today thread.  It is a great way to be accountable, plus the people on the thread have lots of great advice and recipes.

Welcome to the board. You have been on a really rough journey so far. I hope things go smoother for you from now on.

Welcome to the board.  The process usually takes about 18 months from referral to surgery.  It seems like a long time, but it will give you time to research and be ready.  Some people also use this time to get help with issues that they have with food, and either going to counselling or classes that are offered.  The more that you deal with now, the easier things will be after surgery.

You are not a failure, you have recognized that you need help to do this, and have asked for it.  That's not failing.  That's strength.

Yes, there are risks to this surgery, but all surgeries have risks.  Yes, we have to watch out for more things, but we know when something is wrong, and can get help to get it fixed.  Also think of this, what is the risk to you and your children if you don't do anything?

Post op care for any centre includes scheduled checks (mine were 1 week, 3 week, 6 week, 3 month, 9 month, 1 yr, 2yr, 3yr, 4yr and 5yr).  But if you have a problem or question in between, just call them and you can get help.  There is nutrionists, social worker/behaviourist/psychologist, nurse, surgeons, and they also have lists for counsellors and other resources if needed.

You can also look for support groups/coffee nights in your area, and you can get support from us, as long as you are on the board.  We have everyone from those just trying to lose weight, starting the journey and vets 10+ on the site.  There is lots of support available.

I wish you well on this next step in your journey.

Cathy

So sorry to hear about your troubles. I am not sure where you are being referred, I had my sleeve done at TWH. If you are going there you can call in for cancelations to hurry the process. I went through the process in 5 months! 

Good luck!