I'm 18, and VERY nervous about Surgery HELP

My name is Emilee and I am 18 years old. I have 2 ruptured disks in my back and as a result of that and my weight, my doctors have recommended this surgery. I've already done all the things my insurance requires and I met with the psychiatrist and the nutritionist. From what I've read on here so far, my process has been very very rushed compared to most. From the first talk I had with my surgeon's office, It has only been 2 weeks, and right now we're awaiting insurance approval, and then to set the surgery date. As a result of this rush, I am just trying to educate myself as much as possible about this surgery. So far I havent read about too many people my age having this surgery. If any of you have any advice or words of encouragement it would be GREATLY appreciated right now. As soon as I am approved by insurance, I have to start a 2 week liquid fast before surgery. IF everything goes as planned, I will have the surgery by Mid-August. Thanks for takin the time to read my post, I'd LOVE some replies. Hope everyone has a fantastic day! :help:

Hi Emilee, Welcome to the board!!!! You may find more information on the forum for teens. If you click on the forum tab at the top of the page and scan the different forums you will find one for teens. You are welcome here, and you may find more information and people your age on that forum. You will find that we have lots of information and wonderful people here. Congratulation on beginning your journey. Keep us posted how things are going for you and how you are doing!!!!!' Your process has gone extremely fast. Keep gathering information!! I hope this has helped. Pat

Hi Emilee, First I'd like to congratuate you on taking this big step towards changing your life. YOu've come to the right place for support. This is a wonderful group. THey even have meetings, however, i always seem to be unable to attend them due to work and childcare commitments. I had RNY in Feb of this year and it's been wonderful. I am a bit older then you but I"ve had some pretty severe lower back problems and that was my push to get this surgery. First, you might know, that this surgery won't heal your ruptured discs. I have already lost 60lbs and I have been having more back problems then I would like. However, I've been through extenisve testing and seeing a spine center and they feel that it's ok to wait. Once you have this surgery it will take about 1 year to stablize and reach an ideal body weight. This is one of the things that will play a huge role in my back care. Right now, I'm just living with the back problem, they actually told me it's degenerative disc disease. The weight loss has surely helped me, but it hasn't cured my back. Now, I don't want to scare you off, because I'm a work in progress. My body may adjust to the weight loss and rid itself of the constant pain, however, the neurosurgeon told me to live with it because we don't know the long term out look. I've been dealing with the back thing for almost 3 years and with the right pain management, you will be fine. Good LUck with your journey and let me know how things progress. I am here if you have any questions. I remember what it was like being 18. I didn't have severe back problems then. I am now a mom and work full time so I cannot take time out for the back pain and take it easy. ALso, check out the library they have several books for weight loss, my favorite and most candid book is WLS for dummies, it's an awsome resource. I think there might be more books now, but this is my favorite. Ofocurse, I"m a diligent reader so this helps me with obtaining my knowledge, I do however know, most people don't like to read. Good LUck and Stay Cool in this heat. JEnnifer

Emilee, First of all let me tell you that you have chosen a GREAT GREAT surgeon. I love Dr. Lowe. He did my lap RNY on June 14. He is very very detailed and makes sure that he gives you all the information you need and will take tons of time to answer all your questions. I can't tell you enough good things about him and really want you to know that if he has met you and gone over your medical history and records he would NOT do the surgery if he didn't feel it would be good for you. If you have any questions about him or the process through his office please email me because I will be happy to answer them all. Also, let me say that researching and talking to other people who had the surgery really helped me. Anyway..good luck and feel free to email me. I trusted Dr. Lowe with my life and I would tell anyone who was considering the surgery that I love him. Shannon