Question:
How do you deal with a long wait?

I am about a year away from having surgery because of scheduling issues with college and work. How do you deal with a long wait when you know this surgery is the answer. I am already many years behind in school so I am unwilling to forego a semster. Also, I was curious to hear from those who have attended classes after surgery. How long was it before you were back in study mode. I am considering having the surgery after Christmas(if possible) but I am concerned that 4 weeks will not be long enough for a full recovery. I keep hearing people say that it takes almost a few months before they are back to normal. And god forbid I have any complications I would lose the semester at school. Can someone please give me some advice? Any help is greatly appreciated. Thanks:-)    — Sara A (posted on July 12, 2001)

July 12, 2001
I know how you feel about the long wait Sara. I won't be having surgery until the beginning of next year only because my doctor is so dang busy. I scheduled my consult in March and it is October. 25th 2001. As far as recovery, most say they are able to go back to a desk job 3 to 4 weeks after open. Of course, everyone is different. I have 4 weeks planned. Hopefully I won't need more. Just make sure you have a GOOD surgeon and follow instructions and listen to your body. =) Good Luck to you!
   — Brenda S.

July 12, 2001
It is very tough. I started my trip to WLS in Nov.2000 and I don't have my final consult untill Aug 13th the they send for aproval. then pre-op tests and finaly surgery if all goes well.So it will be another 3 months or so yet. I have tried to keep myself busy to keep mymind off of Wls I'm remodeling my kitchen. see if you can find something to keep you busy. Good luck.
   — Sue R. T.

July 12, 2001
Are you getting an open or lap procedure.. that could be a huge difference in recoupe time. I have several friends that though they were tired were able to return to work in 10-14 days after the procedure. If so that would be very helpful to you.
   — Dawn R.

July 12, 2001
I was seen for my consult on Oct. 18, 1999. That was when BTC was in the process of moving and my paperwork that I had brought with me didn't make the move. After 3 months, it sat still on someone's desk. By the time I got all the paperwork straightened around it was May, more than 6 months from seeing the doctor so I had to go back and talk to him again. I was scheduled for Surgery Aug. 2000... only problem was, I got cellulitis and had to postpone it to Oct. 10th, one week shy of a year since the initial consult. I would love to say that I handled it well... but I didn't. I was fortunate enough to have a great support system and they got me through days when it seemed like the surgery was never going to happen. Just keep focusing on the future. Buy clothes that are smaller in sizes you will be able to wear. Try to do things with a positive attitude..like "next year, this will be easier to do".. always focus on the future but don't forget to enjoy the present while you are doing it. If you need any additional support, feel free to email me, I'm more than glad to help!!! I was back to work in 3 weeks by the way though to feel "normal" took a little while longer. Believe me - it was well worth the wait. Diane C. (weight loss: 182 lbs in 9 months)
   — Diane C.