Question:
What do I tell my family about the statistics?

I am 21 days pre-op lap RNY. Several of my immediate family know of this scheduled surgery but most do not. My children, ages 8, 9 and 11 also know that I am having surgery but they do not fully understand the type of surgery I am having. While I do not want to lie to my children and immediate family I also do not want to tell them the statistics of this operation. As I understand it, 1 out of 200 die. I want them to know that this is a big deal but I do not want to scare them!!!! Such a fine line. Im sure others have had this same concern and I would like to hear how you handled it. Also, I found out today that a patient who had surgery with my surgeon has passed away. Brings this issue a little closer to home for me. Thanks for all your imput.    — Elizabeth C. (posted on July 6, 2001)

September 21, 2001
I have been very open with my family and we talked through both their fears as well as my own. My 11 year old daughter undserstands that it is a little dangerous and a big decision. She has read some of the items on this site as well. She gave me a big hug and told me she was happy for me when I told family I had approval. She is a very mature for her age, the intellectual type.LOL
   — Suzi L.