Finally have something to post.

I mostly lurk as nothing much has been happening in my progress but today, today is a red letter day.  I had 3 appointments at Kaiser SSF; met with the psychologist, had the Life Style Management Class and met my surgeon Dr. David Le.  I am scheduled for surgery on July 21.  I am so excited. I did have to laugh, however, as he pointed out to me that I am older than most patients (65) but he thinks I am a good candidate.  The psychologist said the same thing.  Maybe I seem old but reliable. Anyway I hope to soon be on the losers bench with all of you.  My journey stated November 13. Cris

**~**~**~**~**~** C O N G R A T U L A T I O N S **~**~**~**~ Isn't this great. Soon you will have more to post.... July 21 is just around the corner. Sigh, older, that is just a number... Post with us anyway.... Millie

EthelC, that is great news!  ... and what a hugh amount of courage it must have taken for you to pursue WLS.  At any age, it takes alot of perserverance to meet all the necessary requirements. I'm 56. I had my surgery 3 years ago so I know that actually getting a surgery date is not a simple as it sounds.    I didn't have a Life Style Management Class.  Did it cover anything interesting or useful?

It seems to me that all of the classes that Kaiser require are repeats or variations of orientation but I guess they are trying to ensure that everyone is aware of what they need to do and keep them on track.  Though I am below surgery goal Dr. Le said that as an "older" candidate he would like me to take off another 10lbs prior to surgery if possible as it will make it easier for him and easier on my body so I need to do protein shakes 2x a day and one small meal (keep my day under 1000 calories until surgery.  I will be walking a lot more now.  Wow, I may get healthy. Thank you for your reply.  I don't feel older but then all the doctors and hospital staff look sooooo young.  I guess it is perspective.

that is awesome news!!! one month away!!! that will fly!!!!!!! you need to come out of lurkdom more often!!!!!!

Nice to hear your good news, Ethel! Congratulations on getting a surgery date.  July 21 will be here before you know it.  I'll be 56 in August and just had my surgery two weeks ago.  I think you'll do just fine.  I have a friend who is 66 and waiting for her consulation with the surgical group. I hope you continue to post and let us share in following your progress! Kathi

My daughter says that being in your 60s is like it use to be when people were in their forties.  When I asked her when that change happened her reply was "when I reached 40".  I think 65 is just a good starting to know what your doing for real stage. Cris

Cris dont let them tell you you are old i am 67 was 65 when i had surgery and now i feel like i am 45 at the most maybe younger, I can work and do circles all around much younger women even women in their 30s cant keep up with me. so it is a matter of mind over matter ....lol ....congradulations and good luck. Jan

Hey Cris, don't let your age bother you.....I was 68 when I had my WLS last August and I got along just fine. My surgeon asked me to lose 15 lbs. and I lost 26 because I was trying to eat and drink fluids like I would be after the surgery....I also started exercising. I think I am probably my surgeon's oldest patient....LOL. He's young enough to be my son!

Sounds like Kaiser SSF has a good program...hope they have lots of aftercare.....it's really important those first six months.

Good luck on your journey.....July 21st will be here before you know it and then hang on, girl, it's a great ride!!!

Pat R.

Thanks for you replies.  I am excited and my entire family is supporting this (probably want it more than I do) No, I don't feel old and forget sometimes that I am older than most of the people I spend my time with.  I can't wait to have the surgery.  I have lost 38lbs since orientation and plan to be under 200 prior to surgery.  My problem has never been taking it off, it has always been "finishing" a diet and keeping it off.  I feel that with this surgery I will never finish so will have a better change of keeping it off.  It will definitely help the diabetes and blood pressure I know. I want to be in good enough shape to enjoy the retirement years when I feel I am ready for that - right now I love my job.  I love the over 50 board - it is such a strong, determined, fun loving group. Cris