Didn't know a simple question would cause such an uproar!

I have been away from the computer for a few days only to return to what seems like a complete uproar over what I thought was a simple request for info on a PCP for me. The post was never started to flame Dr. C. or anyone else on this board. It was just a request to find a PCP that would be receptive to DS. I just want to respond to a few things I've read. First of all, I am new to the boards for a little while now, but am no stranger to researching WLS or even seeing firsthand at work (I'm a RN), the complications that can occur. My decision to have WLS has been a long time in coming and not an easy decision or one I take lightly. I also realize that I am a "lightweight" as some of you call it. I may have a low BMI ( I am 5'1" and currently weigh 208lbs.), but also am starting to have some serious comorbidities. I have arthritis that is getting worse in my hips and legs. It is getting harder and harder to walk alot. I now can only work nights, cause I can't walk as much on a day shift like I used to. So my weight is now affecting my work. I also have GERD and sleep apnea. I have family history of diabetes, hypertension, heart attacks, and cancer. I do think Dr. C's reply to me was curt. I believe he perhaps could have asked me about any comordities and given me some reasons why he thought the DS was not good for me, instead of just saying he thought I would be nuts to have DS with such a low BMI. That being said, I think he is an excellent surgeon from what I've read on here. I, in no way, would ever put him down for his abilities. He probably would have been more receptive to DS if he performed it. I know he is very knowable about RNY and lapband. I think the board is fortunate he is available to answer questions. We just differ in opinions this time. Also, I am leaning toward DS due to several reasons. I do know that I DO NOT want RNY. It is just not for me. I respect all of you out there that chose RNY, and I hope you could respect me for my decision, whichever surgery I chose. I originally did think the lapband would be best for me. I know it is less invasive with less risks, but there are some issues with the lapband i am not comfortable with either. I also know DS is a extreme surgery, but so is RNY. BOTH involves rerouting the intestines. BOTH involves cutting on the stomach, whether to make a pouch, or remove part of it. When I first heard about DS, i thought..oh no I can't have that done. But after ALOT of review and searching, it seemed to make more sense to me, and seemed to be better for ME. I probably will have to self pay, and feel i should have a choice in my surgery, if it's my money. I just want to end in saying I read an awlful lot of posts on here slamming different types of WLS. I thought this was an obesity help site, and it would be a website where people would support each other. I would never tell a person who had RNY he was wrong for having it done. Same goes for the lapband or DS. I believe everyone has a right to chose the surgery they think is best for them. WLS surgery is serious and I don't think many people pre or post op take having surgery lightly. I for one sure don't. I support EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YOU, no matter what surgery you've had or plan to have.

Very well put Linda.... Good Luck on your journey.. Best Wishes and God Bless.... Julie

I wouldn't worry about the postings. Sometimes it helps people to blow off steam and voice their opinions. Its kinda like how people feel about their kids. Their doctors become very important to them and when someone takes a negative appraoch to them, all of those mother killer emotions float to the surface and somebody is gonna get an earful. We all chose our surgery and of course we feel it is the best. Of course no one believes that you were flaming Dr Curry. I have a feeling that he can handle himself quite well. Good luck with whatever surgery you decide on. Wish I could help you with a weight loss friendy PC. Personally my doctor weighs about 90 pounds and thinks that all you need to do is walk away from the table. It took me threatening to fire her and find a doctor with more compassion before she would write my letter of support. Then again she and I enjoy arguing wtih each other!

Linda, Let's just let it rest. I don't think your "simple" question was the problem. The problem was you posting on the ds board and them getting all worked up. It seems you have done your research and YOU have to be comfortable with YOUR choice. That is the bottom line. Best wishes to you in your quest for better health. Diane

Diane- I just want to respectfully correct the statement that the problem goes back to her posting on the DS board. Linda never posted to the DS board as far as I could find, anyway. The problem stemmed form Dr Curry's one unfortunate word, 'Nuts." The use of that one word got this all started. Yes, it was just one little word and if we could have heard it spoken perhaps it would not even have been offensive- but what got so many people going was that a professional used that term to describe a group of people, in essence. I really do hope this can be laid to rest- it really has gone too far and all we had hoped to do is eliminate misinformation and support somone who needed it, not upset anyone, or an entire group. I am among a vast number who believes that WLS is a personal choice and everyone is to be respected for their choice. I also believe that choice should be an educated one. I sincerely wish you and all here on the Ohio board nothing but the best in health- Donna

Hi Donna, You are right. Although Linda DID post on the DS board (something like BMI 40 OR LESS). WLS is a very personal decision and this site was created to generate support, not hard feelings. Hopefully everyone is ready to put this aside and wish each other well in their endevors. Glad you posted!

Linda , Thank you for coming on and clarifying that. From what I have seen with Dr. C he is a very caring individual and I dont think he was trying to be mean in any way. I don't think you did anything wrong. I for one was just upset at the way people started jumping on us. If you see they were actually making wise cracks and I felt attacking jusst for the one word. Again if that is your choice than great. WE don't know what your personal needs are. Only you know what is best for you, well you and everyone else on the DS board LOL. Just kidding!!!!!!! I hope everything goes well for you. And you are welcome here just like everyone else. I was not hip on the lap band for me either. It does not mean that I don't think they should do that type of weight loss. It is a personal issue. Again, GOod luck and GOd Bless. Richard

Hey Linda...I am in Alabama, but my hubby is from Cinci, so I lurk on the Ohio board.... sorry you did not get any referrals and sorry for the "nuts" word... Now, I will invite you to the BLACK AMERICAN FORUM to ask for a PCP referral there that is DS WLS friendly There are alot of Ohioians on the board...we don't care if you black, white, green, blue, or red... If we can help you, we will...give it try...hope you find a PCP that will work with you

Thanks for the invite. Not sure if I will be brave enough to post another question for awhile though. I will stop over and say hi. Linda

When you find a DS friendly, PCP, let me know. I'll switch over, too. I have my doubts that my PCP will do enough research to be an asset to me. Valerie