Tomorrow is 13 Weeks Post Surgery and I'm Still Struggling

Colanut323
on 6/25/17 8:13 am
RNY on 03/27/17

Tomorrow I'm officially 13 weeks post surgery. A day doesn't go by that I don't regret doing this to myself. It hasn't been an easy recovery. I had pain that lasted well after the expected timeframe (speculation from original surgeon was a knicked nerve during procedure) and was treated for a stricture at 6 weeks post surgery. I have been to the emergency room twice for dehydration and malnutrition (prior to diagnosis/treatment of the stricture). Chose to switch surgeons for aftercare because my original MD didn't believe me when I told him I couldn't keep anything down and was weak/dizzy all the time (hence the hospital visits and eventual stricture correction). I am hopeful that I will eventually feel okay again but that seems like it's a lifetime away. I feel alone and unsupported. Is there anyone out there has had similar thoughts/experiences?

Kathy1212
on 6/25/17 9:17 am

I'm so sorry you've been having such a difficult time; that is really rough, and my heart goes out to you.

I had a lot of pain after surgery, but thankfully no strictures. I had inflammation in my pouch and had to stay on full liquids and purees for an extra month, then just when I was feeling better, got pneumonia and was very sick for over 2 weeks.

It did get much better for me, and I'm doing great now, at 20 weeks out. Down over 91 Lbs, and super active (for me). I did a 25.5 km bike ride yesterday. I'm out of plus sized clothes and having a blast going into "regular" stores.

Hang in; it should get better. Good luck.

Pre-Op Visit: Jan. 10, 2017, weight 304, surgeon: Dr. David Lindsay, St. Joe's, Toronto

1st Day of (3 weeks worth of) Optifast: Jan. 11, 2017

Surgery Date: Feb. 1st, 2017

  Kathy  

Colanut323
on 6/25/17 7:03 pm
RNY on 03/27/17

Thank you for your kindness. I appreciate you sharing your experience. It helps me tremendously to know I'm not alone on this journey. My family and friends don't understand how difficult this process is for me. Knowing that there are kind people in the world who "get it" is refreshing. Congratulations on your success!! It's inspiring to know that despite the challenges, you have overcome them and are doing great. Thanks again!!

Librarian67
on 6/25/17 9:25 am
RNY on 02/28/17

So sorry that this has been a difficult journey. Hang in there and I hope things improve soon!

HW: 248+, SW (RNY: 2/28/17): 244, GW (10/17): 125; LW: 115; 45# regain (19-20); CW: 135.6; new goal: 135; Plastics: Ext mastopexy, Ext abdominoplasty-5/18/2018; diagnosed w/ gastroparesis 11/20.

Colanut323
on 6/25/17 7:10 pm
RNY on 03/27/17

Thank you for the kind words of support and encouragement. I am so happy I found this space. Thanks again!!

Tuktu
on 6/25/17 12:10 pm
RNY on 03/07/17

I'm so sorry to hear you are struggling still - that can't be easy. I'm glad you switched surgeons - you need to be heard and believed. Can you turn to a local support group for help or perhaps family/friends who can help you over the hump until you get through the worst of it? Perhaps a therapist? You are not alone - we are all here for you! Stick with it, it can only get better right?!

Colanut323
on 6/25/17 6:58 pm
RNY on 03/27/17

Thank you for the encouragement...I am so grateful for your response. Seeking support through counseling/therapy is a great place to start. I've considered this option and have not taken action. Tomorrow is a new day and I am making this step a priority. Thank you again...sometimes all it takes is a gentle reminder that I can do this.

Tuktu
on 6/26/17 7:22 am
RNY on 03/07/17

I hope you can get find the help and support you need. So many people think WLS is the "easy" way out - for many its the most difficult route (especially dealing with medical complications) I struggle with the temptations of food and fight with comparing myself to others and not losing fast enough. But I find talking to others who have gone through the same procedure as me makes a huge difference. I have to remember its not a race! Good luck and let us know how you are doing. Keep checking in

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