HELP!!! COLD FEET....

Hi, everybody. This is my first time posting on this site. I had my initial consult in October 2005 and had all of the pre-op tests done by December. I was supposed to get scheduled for surgery before the holidays, but my endoscopy results showed three ulcers in my stomach. So everything got postponed until those could heal. I had my follow up endoscopy done this past Thursday, 2/2/06. My ulcers have healed. The next day, Friday - 2/3/06, I got the call at work -- my insurance company approved the surgery and my date is scheduled for 2/15/06. Good news, right? Then why am I second guessing the whole surgery decision? I wasn't expecting to get approval from the insurance company and have the date scheduled in such a short time. I have an appointment with my surgeon tomorrow and I am seriously thinking about asking for some more time -- like, another month. I don't know if I can get myself mentally prepared by the 15th. It feels too ..... rushed. My husband was very supportive through the whole process up until I came home with a surgery date. Now he's not so sure he wants me to go through with it. My mother has been against it since day one. But these are people who don't suffer with weight issues. Did anybody else have doubts/second thoughts about the surgery right before they went in? How did you get yourself psyched up to go through with it?

Second, third, fourth and fifth doubts right up to the moment they put me under. I think it is normal. This is a big life change you will be making. Talk about with those close to you and your doc. It was a great thing for me to have accomplished when I look back at it now but right up to that moment there is always fear and doubt. Make sure it is your decision and that it is something you will be able to life with. Best wishes for a successful journey. Donna

Tangela, it's perfectly reasonable to ask for more time to better prepare yourself for the whole change that surgery brings. It's the best thing that I ever did for myself and I felt that way long before I had surgery. Being prepared mentally is such an important part of the process. Doesn't hurt to make SURE this is what you really want. You shouldn't have to "psych" yourself up for surgery. Take the time you need. I wish you the best! Irene

Hi, It is normal to have doubts. If you didn't then something would be wrong with you. I was actually saying a prayer to myself in my head as they were putting me out. I was scared to death. But I figured that if I didn't do the surgery it would be worse. I actually wrote goodbye letters to my husband and son. I hid them in my jewelry box figuring someday they would find them. Surgery is scary stuff. If you are already approved then maybe you need to take time to get right with it. When the weight starts coming off you realize it was all worth it. Good luck with your decision.

I havn't had surgery yet and am hoping for an approval from my local soon, but as far as getting support from people who never struggled with their weight, i've given up on. I love them, but they will NEVER understand the pain and insecurities we all suffer with from obesity. My husband and inlaws are very supportive, but my mother who i'm very close to still thinks I can do it on my own if I try again.....and friends and neighbors that I've spoken to say I'm crazy. I think we have to come to a decision within ourselves that no one will change no matter what is said. I have come to this and you need to also. Think about you and put all else aside. What do you really want? Hope this helps and good luck with your journey! (you've come so far already) Hugs Lisa 255 5'6"