New Here, BMI 52, Encouragement Needed!
Hi, Everyone ~
I've posted on a few threads on other boards, but I'm guessing I belong here more than anywhere else. . . so here I am! (I'm super forgetful, and don't think I've posted here before, but if I have, please forgive me!
)
About me: Age 60, happily married, 2 boys (27 & 17), but unhappily, carrying about 312 lbs. on my 5'4-1/2" body. Overweight since childhood, always fighting the battle and losing. Now, I'm in that downhill part of my life, and desperate to do whatever is necessary to get some of this weight off so I can stick around a little bit longer. My co-morbidities include high blood pressure, hypothyroidism, high cholesteral, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and maybe a few other things I'm forgetting or don't know about. FWIW, my bipolar has been stable on meds for years (excepting a few bouts of depression here and there). I have a great pdoc who has many years of experience (15 yrs. with me alone!), and I think he'll be able to get my meds regulated after surgery, so I'm not too concerned about that.
I'm really scared of having surgery, and all the potential complications (including death!), but when I weigh it against living with SMO, it's kind of coming up as the winner. Now I just need to take the plunge, find a surgeon, and get this show on the road. From lots of reading and research I've done, I'm thinking RNY is the way to go for me. I know there may be a couple of other procedures that would provide even greater weight loss through malabsorption, but I'm pretty sure my insurance won't cover those.
Looking for anyone who's been in a similar situation, and particularly, wanting to know what the tipping point was for you when you made the decision to have the surgery.
Thanks a lot for reading.
Beth
I've posted on a few threads on other boards, but I'm guessing I belong here more than anywhere else. . . so here I am! (I'm super forgetful, and don't think I've posted here before, but if I have, please forgive me!
) About me: Age 60, happily married, 2 boys (27 & 17), but unhappily, carrying about 312 lbs. on my 5'4-1/2" body. Overweight since childhood, always fighting the battle and losing. Now, I'm in that downhill part of my life, and desperate to do whatever is necessary to get some of this weight off so I can stick around a little bit longer. My co-morbidities include high blood pressure, hypothyroidism, high cholesteral, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and maybe a few other things I'm forgetting or don't know about. FWIW, my bipolar has been stable on meds for years (excepting a few bouts of depression here and there). I have a great pdoc who has many years of experience (15 yrs. with me alone!), and I think he'll be able to get my meds regulated after surgery, so I'm not too concerned about that.
I'm really scared of having surgery, and all the potential complications (including death!), but when I weigh it against living with SMO, it's kind of coming up as the winner. Now I just need to take the plunge, find a surgeon, and get this show on the road. From lots of reading and research I've done, I'm thinking RNY is the way to go for me. I know there may be a couple of other procedures that would provide even greater weight loss through malabsorption, but I'm pretty sure my insurance won't cover those.
Looking for anyone who's been in a similar situation, and particularly, wanting to know what the tipping point was for you when you made the decision to have the surgery.
Thanks a lot for reading.
Beth
Consult WT: 312 SW: 274 CW: 244
Welcome to the board Beth. I am sure you will find the one of the most caring and encouraging groups on the site.
We do have some similarities, I am 58, happily married 37 years, with 2 wonderful daughters, 18 & 30, A difference is am a guy, and I know both health and body issues can be different.
My high weight was 480, BMI 67
I had my RNY 3/2/2011, and the only regret I have is that I did not do it sooner.
My tipping point was my health, and my mobility. It was getting very bad. I had constant pain in my ankles and knees, and would be winded on just short walks. Stairs would be difficult, and if I was forced to use stairs, I would take them one at a time.
Since the surgery my current weight is 295 (on my way to 210), I no longer take any medications (used to take for High Blood Pressure and Diabetes pills), and my mobility is great. I walk a minimum of 3 miles and go to the gym every day and do interval and weight training. On a recent nice day about a month ago, I took a 10 mile walk in around a lake at a local park.
I understand you fears, believe me, I had them also. But what put it in perspective is that I believed I was more likely to die by not having the surgery than if I had it. My health was getting that bad.
My final piece of advice is that it is more important to focus on finding the right surgeon than focusing on which surgery to have at this point. However, research the pros and cons of the different types so you can be well informed. You will find that there are people on these boars that are strong advocates for their type of WLS. The truth is they all work if you follow the program. But, if you have found a good surgeon, who understand your body and history, and you are well informed about the procedure, you and the surgeon will reach a consensus on what is right for you.
I wish you well, whatever your decision may be.
We do have some similarities, I am 58, happily married 37 years, with 2 wonderful daughters, 18 & 30, A difference is am a guy, and I know both health and body issues can be different.
My high weight was 480, BMI 67
I had my RNY 3/2/2011, and the only regret I have is that I did not do it sooner.
My tipping point was my health, and my mobility. It was getting very bad. I had constant pain in my ankles and knees, and would be winded on just short walks. Stairs would be difficult, and if I was forced to use stairs, I would take them one at a time.
Since the surgery my current weight is 295 (on my way to 210), I no longer take any medications (used to take for High Blood Pressure and Diabetes pills), and my mobility is great. I walk a minimum of 3 miles and go to the gym every day and do interval and weight training. On a recent nice day about a month ago, I took a 10 mile walk in around a lake at a local park.
I understand you fears, believe me, I had them also. But what put it in perspective is that I believed I was more likely to die by not having the surgery than if I had it. My health was getting that bad.
My final piece of advice is that it is more important to focus on finding the right surgeon than focusing on which surgery to have at this point. However, research the pros and cons of the different types so you can be well informed. You will find that there are people on these boars that are strong advocates for their type of WLS. The truth is they all work if you follow the program. But, if you have found a good surgeon, who understand your body and history, and you are well informed about the procedure, you and the surgeon will reach a consensus on what is right for you.
I wish you well, whatever your decision may be.
Gary
Welcome Beth! This is a wonderful forum filled with very understanding people. If you are considering the RNY, that board is also very good and very active. You will find lots of good information there. There are a lot of great people on these boards, always willing to help out. My suggestion would be to check out the different boards of the various surgery types to learn about each procedure.
As for me, I had wanted to have weight loss surgery for 7 years before I finally got it. When I originally tried to get surgery back in 2004, my insurance would not cover it. There was a very iron clad exclusion to WLS. I did not want to quit that job because I loved it. I tried to lose weight on my own (several times) but failed. My weight kept going up and up as did my comorbidities. I had sleep apnea, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, insulin resistance/pre-diabetes, and GERD. I also had hypothyroidism, arthritis and depression. In 2008 I got a job that had insurance that would cover WLS but I was diagnosed with endometrial and ovarian cancer. So I had to take care of that first. I lost my job at that time which did not help my depression and overeating. I continued to gain weight and the chemotherapy drugs and steroids helped me to pack on another 45-50 lbs. Also didn't help that I was going through a divorce at that time too. It's funny because when you hear "cancer" and chemotherapy, you think how sickly and frail people going through chemo look. That was not my case at all. I continued to gain. Before I knew it I weighed 385 lbs! I am only 5'0" tall. I was miserable. I was in constant pain, not only from the extra weight on my joints, my arthritis and now neuropathy (caused from the chemo). I knew I had to find a way to get WLS. I moved back to PA and my new insurance covered WLS. I found a surgeon and proceeded with the process. I did not have to do a 6 month supervised diet but it did take several months to get all the testing and stuff done. Since I had sleep apnea (I knew I had it but was never treated for it. I went from mild sleep apnea to severe sleep apnea) and had to have a CPAP machine. The pulmonologist required 2 months of use to make sure I would be compliant with treatment before he would sign off on it. I should've taken that time to lose some weight but instead I went on a binge of "last suppers" and gained another 14 lbs taking me up to 399 lbs! So please, don't do that to yourself, it just gives you more to have to lose. I took those 14 lbs back off plus another 23 lbs on the required liquid diet. To date I have lost 144 lbs. It has a ride and I am so grateful.
If you have any questions feel free to ask. Send me a friend request if you want to and good luck with your journey.
Tammy
As for me, I had wanted to have weight loss surgery for 7 years before I finally got it. When I originally tried to get surgery back in 2004, my insurance would not cover it. There was a very iron clad exclusion to WLS. I did not want to quit that job because I loved it. I tried to lose weight on my own (several times) but failed. My weight kept going up and up as did my comorbidities. I had sleep apnea, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, insulin resistance/pre-diabetes, and GERD. I also had hypothyroidism, arthritis and depression. In 2008 I got a job that had insurance that would cover WLS but I was diagnosed with endometrial and ovarian cancer. So I had to take care of that first. I lost my job at that time which did not help my depression and overeating. I continued to gain weight and the chemotherapy drugs and steroids helped me to pack on another 45-50 lbs. Also didn't help that I was going through a divorce at that time too. It's funny because when you hear "cancer" and chemotherapy, you think how sickly and frail people going through chemo look. That was not my case at all. I continued to gain. Before I knew it I weighed 385 lbs! I am only 5'0" tall. I was miserable. I was in constant pain, not only from the extra weight on my joints, my arthritis and now neuropathy (caused from the chemo). I knew I had to find a way to get WLS. I moved back to PA and my new insurance covered WLS. I found a surgeon and proceeded with the process. I did not have to do a 6 month supervised diet but it did take several months to get all the testing and stuff done. Since I had sleep apnea (I knew I had it but was never treated for it. I went from mild sleep apnea to severe sleep apnea) and had to have a CPAP machine. The pulmonologist required 2 months of use to make sure I would be compliant with treatment before he would sign off on it. I should've taken that time to lose some weight but instead I went on a binge of "last suppers" and gained another 14 lbs taking me up to 399 lbs! So please, don't do that to yourself, it just gives you more to have to lose. I took those 14 lbs back off plus another 23 lbs on the required liquid diet. To date I have lost 144 lbs. It has a ride and I am so grateful.
If you have any questions feel free to ask. Send me a friend request if you want to and good luck with your journey.
Tammy
Tammy 
Luck 'o the Irish
HW399/SW362/CW219/GW130
*37 lbs were lost pre-op
Hey Beth,
I started my journey at 474 pounds - BMI 74.4, and almost 14 months out, I am down over 165 pounds to the lightest I have seen in about a decade.
Sure, being scared of surgery is natural, but if YOU take control of things, make yourself READY for surgery, you will be in good hands of surgeons who have done MANY surgeries before you. I spent a YEAR before seeking surgery swimming laps. I have mobility issues, and found swimming a great exercise, and frankly, I have become more than a recreational swimmer.
My family has thyroid disease so bad, I was second youngest to be diagnosed (I was 22). But, I always was active, so my being obese wasn't too much of an issue. Fast forward to 2003, I ruptured my Achilles tendon, putting me on the side lines, and growing to well over 474 pounds. Hypothyroidism isn't really a co-morbidity of obesity, it is an autoimmune disease that is genetic.
With all things, start slowly, and build up from there. You have a good support system with your family, and you seem to be aware of your medical issues, so consider investing in your health & future happiness.
Before picking which surgery, talk to your primary doc as well as surgeon. My body is ultra efficient, so I needed (and it was recommended) that a malabsorptive proceedure would be best suited for me. Many folks can work with a restrictive surgery alone (VSG, Band), so do YOUR homework.
My tipping point, I just couldn't stand being inactive! I hated the aches & pains, and frankly did not want to end up in a motorized chair. I love life, and live loudly. My last trip up a volcano, Feb 2011, I was RUNNING around like a billy goat -- just a few months out of surgery, I might add. You are still quite young, my grandmother was still very active up to 93, when she recently passed. Consider the next couple decades, how do YOU want to live it?
You will get LOTS of support here on OH, but also consider getting involved in a support group that is local to you! Hang in there, and stay positive ;)
Brenda : )~
I started my journey at 474 pounds - BMI 74.4, and almost 14 months out, I am down over 165 pounds to the lightest I have seen in about a decade.
Sure, being scared of surgery is natural, but if YOU take control of things, make yourself READY for surgery, you will be in good hands of surgeons who have done MANY surgeries before you. I spent a YEAR before seeking surgery swimming laps. I have mobility issues, and found swimming a great exercise, and frankly, I have become more than a recreational swimmer.
My family has thyroid disease so bad, I was second youngest to be diagnosed (I was 22). But, I always was active, so my being obese wasn't too much of an issue. Fast forward to 2003, I ruptured my Achilles tendon, putting me on the side lines, and growing to well over 474 pounds. Hypothyroidism isn't really a co-morbidity of obesity, it is an autoimmune disease that is genetic.
With all things, start slowly, and build up from there. You have a good support system with your family, and you seem to be aware of your medical issues, so consider investing in your health & future happiness.
Before picking which surgery, talk to your primary doc as well as surgeon. My body is ultra efficient, so I needed (and it was recommended) that a malabsorptive proceedure would be best suited for me. Many folks can work with a restrictive surgery alone (VSG, Band), so do YOUR homework.
My tipping point, I just couldn't stand being inactive! I hated the aches & pains, and frankly did not want to end up in a motorized chair. I love life, and live loudly. My last trip up a volcano, Feb 2011, I was RUNNING around like a billy goat -- just a few months out of surgery, I might add. You are still quite young, my grandmother was still very active up to 93, when she recently passed. Consider the next couple decades, how do YOU want to live it?
You will get LOTS of support here on OH, but also consider getting involved in a support group that is local to you! Hang in there, and stay positive ;)
Brenda : )~
Welcome Beth,
You will find many wonderful people and lots of helpful tips and ideas. O.H. Has lots to offer. Take time with it. Just wanted to take a minute to welcome you.
My journey of weightloss started on 08/23/[email protected] post RNY 12/15/10 and currently 01/16/12 @309lbs. I started my journey at over 100 BMI.... I know this is life long determination and focuss I will have to live. I am still losing and will reach the point of maintenance. I appreciate O.H. And the many people on here!!
Hang in there, your not alone. Read, ask questions and research what will be best for you. There is no easy way out of what we have to face, that is food(nutrition) and excersize of whatever sort we are able to do can equal weight-loss and maintenance. The tool of weightloss surgery is but only one tool to the equation. If abused it will fail in the long run, so make sure you are wanting to work hard with it for long term success!
Hugs,
Sherrie
You will find many wonderful people and lots of helpful tips and ideas. O.H. Has lots to offer. Take time with it. Just wanted to take a minute to welcome you.
My journey of weightloss started on 08/23/[email protected] post RNY 12/15/10 and currently 01/16/12 @309lbs. I started my journey at over 100 BMI.... I know this is life long determination and focuss I will have to live. I am still losing and will reach the point of maintenance. I appreciate O.H. And the many people on here!!
Hang in there, your not alone. Read, ask questions and research what will be best for you. There is no easy way out of what we have to face, that is food(nutrition) and excersize of whatever sort we are able to do can equal weight-loss and maintenance. The tool of weightloss surgery is but only one tool to the equation. If abused it will fail in the long run, so make sure you are wanting to work hard with it for long term success!
Hugs,
Sherrie
MAKE IT A GREAT DAY!! 
SHERRIE <3
Thanks to all of you for replying to my post! I'm really encouraged by everything you've shared with me about your journey, and also by your successes. It feels good to know there are others who understand where I am right now, and I very much appreciate your sharing with me.
I saw my PCP yesterday, and talked about having surgery. He's very supportive, and willing to do whatever is necessary to help me get going. I also am scheduled to attend a seminar Thursday evening that's put on by a local surgeon's office. Can't wait until then, so I can learn more and see what I need to do next.
The one thing I'm concerned about right now is that I live in a small city, and there are only a few bariatric surgeons here, so the pickins' are pretty slim. I'm hoping one of them will be well-qualified so that I can feel comfortable putting my life in his/her hands. I have an HMO, and I know I have to stay within their network in order to be covered, so that is going to limit me, as well. We shall see. I have to remind myself, one step at a time!
Thanks again, guys.
I saw my PCP yesterday, and talked about having surgery. He's very supportive, and willing to do whatever is necessary to help me get going. I also am scheduled to attend a seminar Thursday evening that's put on by a local surgeon's office. Can't wait until then, so I can learn more and see what I need to do next.
The one thing I'm concerned about right now is that I live in a small city, and there are only a few bariatric surgeons here, so the pickins' are pretty slim. I'm hoping one of them will be well-qualified so that I can feel comfortable putting my life in his/her hands. I have an HMO, and I know I have to stay within their network in order to be covered, so that is going to limit me, as well. We shall see. I have to remind myself, one step at a time!
Thanks again, guys.
Consult WT: 312 SW: 274 CW: 244
Welcome welcome! This forum has been amazing for me during this whole process. Here's a short synopsis:
I started out at a high of 460lbs and BMI ~72. The tipping point for me was realizing that I was too fat to even go grocery shopping without extreme physical pain. "If fatty is too fat to buy food, fatty is too fat." I was at a loss, miserable, and without hope. I decided to at least learn about surgery options and I've never looked back. I chose the DS and I can't possibly BEGIN to explain how it has changed my life. I am a HUGE fan of this surgery. DS'ers can be harsh and come across as downright mean in the other forums. I don't agree with bashing other people's surgery choice, even if I do wholeheartedly believe that my surgery is "better." However, they are a very helpful bunch who are always willing to give advice and encouraging words.
I myself have never regretted my choice, and I believe that regardless of the surgery you choose, you will never regret yours. Life is truly amazing, and the more weight I lose, the more I realize that.
Feel free to check out my personal blog on my weight loss journey: irreverentweightloss.blogspot.com/
I started out at a high of 460lbs and BMI ~72. The tipping point for me was realizing that I was too fat to even go grocery shopping without extreme physical pain. "If fatty is too fat to buy food, fatty is too fat." I was at a loss, miserable, and without hope. I decided to at least learn about surgery options and I've never looked back. I chose the DS and I can't possibly BEGIN to explain how it has changed my life. I am a HUGE fan of this surgery. DS'ers can be harsh and come across as downright mean in the other forums. I don't agree with bashing other people's surgery choice, even if I do wholeheartedly believe that my surgery is "better." However, they are a very helpful bunch who are always willing to give advice and encouraging words.
I myself have never regretted my choice, and I believe that regardless of the surgery you choose, you will never regret yours. Life is truly amazing, and the more weight I lose, the more I realize that.
Feel free to check out my personal blog on my weight loss journey: irreverentweightloss.blogspot.com/
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