December 11, 2006, the day I had RNY surgery.
I weighed in at the hospital a little after 1PM, after flying to Puerta Vallarta, at 322, down from 346 as a result of my pre-op diet.
A few short hours later, they were shaving my chest and belly in the OR.
Fast forward 365 days. I weighed in this morning at 210 pounds.
210. It is hard for me to even type that number. At 42, I think I was 23 the last time I was at 210, and a long time since I was even under 300!
It has been a wild ride, no doubt. Stress, emotions, confusion, anger, depression and now saggy skin syndrome. Of course, I had most of those things pre-op, and was admittedly half crazy to begin with.
I guess your fears never really leave you. Mine are now about maintenance. Will I be 210 in another year....5 years!?
Regrets, Zero. (Other than waiting 5 years to do it)
Thank you;
Mary, my spouse, my partner, my best friend.
Dr. Joya and his entire Medical Team at St. Javier Marina Hospital.
Men of the Locker Room, for all your support and brotherhood.
John Drobnica, my GP and John Spencer, my "Other Doctor" (Psychiatrist).
My Friends, Peers and Clients, all of which have been very supportive.
To anyone who may read this down the road, who is considering weight loss surgery. My suggestion is to learn as much as you can about all the different options, and decide which (if any) are the best for you. Should you decide to have surgery, get the very best medical team / facility you can afford, and build a support network around you in advance. Do your pre-op work, it pays off in spades. Then work the program and ride the weight loss wave all the way to the beach!
WLS is NOT the EASY way out of Obesity. It was for me, however, the Best way out!
Best wishes to all for a happy holiday season, and a healthy and prosperous new year!
Jeff
