5 days away and SCARED!!!

Hi Everyone! I am in need of venting more than anything but I know y'all will listen! I am 5 days away from surgery and all the sudden really nervous and scared. I am even second guessing myself and I'm not sure why! I have done all of this and have such a great support system but I am so worried about whether this is the right decision. There seems to be no way of know whether this is right because you cant predict the future. Everyone around me says that this is the perfect time and the right thing to do but for some reason I am so nervous now.. Is this normal? How did all of you that have had surgery keep such a good attitude about it? Were you convinced everyday that this was right? Thanks so much for listening and any reply would be helpful! Tara surgery scheduled 12/6/06

Tara, I actually sat in the holding area of the hospital and started crying and did not stop till they knocked me out. I was terrified but I feel that I did the right thing. I feel good and I am happy with my decision. I am looking forward to having children of my own and being able to play with them and not have to worry about getting tired. I am looking forward to plane rides and just feeling good all the time. I am especially looking forward to NOT getting diabetes, heart disease, liver disease and the other multitude of diseases that are caused and aggravated by obesity. No one can tell you what to do it has to be your decision. I am pleased with my decision and I am sure you will make the right decision for you! Good Luck to you!

Tara - I think nervousness before any sort of surgery is perfectly normal. And, since this is a surgery that will change your life forever, yes - you would not be normal if you weren't nervous. However -- go to the before and after pics on this website and take a stroll through them for a while. Are you doing the right thing? Oh yes, I do believe so! This will change your life for the better. Look at all the folks who have had it done and look so good and so healthy. YES! It is the right thing. Now, relax, have a cup of caffeine free tea (if you're allowed to), and put your feet up. It will be okay. And, we'll all be here to help you. Linda

you'd be abnormal if you weren't worried! it's a big deal. but it's a GOOD big deal. and you've chosen it. I was very nervous, but I can say 7 months after the surgery that it was the best thing i could have ever done for myself. I'm a new man. and it feels good. there will be bumps along the way, but think of the bumps healthwise you'd go over if you don't get healthier. that's how i had to think of it. i wish you peace and strength, and a good dose of courage. it's truly a great ride!

Hey Tara, Only you can decide if this surgery is the right idea. Was it right for me? Yes!!! I am 1 week and 2 days postop and have lost 22 pounds already!!! I feel fabulous and have more energy than I did before. The pain was minimal to none by the 2nd day postop and even the first day it was not that bad. The PCA pain pump they have you on after surgery is wonderful, really controls the pain well. Do not be afraid to push the button as often as you need to -- you cannot overdose on it; the machine will not let you. If you need to talk, call me. I think I gave you my #. If not, PM me and I will give it to you. You will do fine, honey, I know you will. If you don't mind, I will stop in and see you after surgery on Thursday. The first day you won't remember much at all, you will sleep A LOT!! I checked in on Michelle and Angelique yesterday (they had surgery on Wednesday) and they are both doing well also. They both look great. Take care, Tara. Luv Kim.

Dear Tara, I had bariatric surgery over 7 years ago and have maintained my weight loss. Don't be scared. If your surgeon is experienced and you have checked him out you will do great. I would have surgery again tomarrow. I am no longer on diabetic meds, or high blood pressure meds. I am 53 grandmother of 7 and wake boarding and snow skiing. I would not have the life and health that I have today if I had not opted for bariatric surgery. Lost over 100 lbs and maintaining. You go girl, Robin Stephenson RN