Question:
How about Type I diabetes? I heal well with consistent long

term blood sugars around 6.0 but it takes a LOT of insulin (400-500 units a day) to maintain control over my LARGE body. I've been diabetic for 26 of my 51 years. Do I stand a chance of getting surgery? I have a lot of orthopedic problems including amputation of R foot, but my circulation is good. I use a wheelchair most of the time.    — Nancy G. (posted on August 13, 1999)

August 14, 1999
Well your case illustrates the risks and benefits of bariatric surgery very well. You definitely stand to benefit greatly, if you can get out of the hospital alive and uninjured by the major surgery of gastric bypass. Your insulin requirements will decrease as you lose weight, but at age 51 with long term diabetes it is clear that your risks are 'high'. Just being confined to a wheelchair raises the possibility of postop pneumonia and blood clots. Why did you lose your Right foot?
   — Bruce B.

August 16, 1999
I've not met ANY who still have their diabetes post-op. NONE. Our doc restricts our intake after surgery so most of his patients do not use insulin again after the day of surgery.
   — vitalady

December 29, 1999
I have type I diabetes, age 31 and have had it for 22 years. Your long term A1C is excellent. I had LAP RNY on December 13 and am using 1/3 of the insulin I was on prior to surgery. Have you ever considered an Insulin Pump. Good luck to you. It is unlikely I will ever be off insulin since my pancreas does not work.
   — Chris S.