Question:
I just got a date...but I wasn't prepared for this.....

I called today to get a date. I have all my testing done and everything. The surgeon said he schedules surgeries one month ahead so I assumed I would have the surgery in a month. I was scheduled for the 27th, only 7 days! I told the receptionist that was too early because I had some things to do, but i don't I just got nervous. So she scheduled me on September 1st. I only have 12 days....It seems that I have spent months to get to this point and now I need more time? Does this happen to everyone? I know I want to have the surgery and I won't change my mind. Do you think I am ready? Is this normal?    — AmyWollet (posted on August 20, 2003)

August 20, 2003
Perfectly normal! I had a month's notice on mine and still felt like I needed more time, but come surgery day I was there and raring to go. It's a shock, but you sound like your mentally prepared to deal with it. Good luck! I'm so excited for you!
   — [Deactivated Member]

August 20, 2003
CONGRATULATIONS!!!! There are plenty of folks out there who would give anything to be in your shoes! That being said, have you ever gone on vacation, really looked forward to it, and couldn't believe it when you actually got to your destination? You have worked and waited to get to this point, now the reality really sets in when you get THE DATE. Even when I got my date for late October last year in late August, it didn't seem real - until about 3 days before the actual date. I think you are ready and you will be fine. (Also, you don't want to wait too long because your labs are only good for so long before surgery, or they have to be repeated.)
   — koogy

August 20, 2003
I got my approval on May 16th and had my surgery on June 4th!! I know exactly how you feel!! Everything seamed to move at a snails pace and then BANG!!! Dont worry! Once you have surgery, everything will go back to a snails pace. LOL!!
   — S A.

August 20, 2003
It was the same with me-from first consult to actual surgery was less than a month. I actually liked it that way since I had already made up my mind that I wanted the surgery and didn't have to face months of waiting like many do because their surgeons are so backed up. If your not ready, then ask the doctor to postpone it for a while, but keep in mind that some of the pre-op tests are only good for so long, so if you delay too long, you may have to go back and have the tests again and insurance may not pay this time.
   — Cindy R.

August 20, 2003
I remember being in utter despair all through Oct and Nov 2002 over the process and the fact like it seemed it would never happen. Then I had my consult on December 10th, my approval on December 13th and my surgery date scheduled for January 7th. All of a sudden it was way too fast! What you're experiencing is perfectly normal. Before you get a date, all you can focus on is TRYING TO GET A DATE. Then when you get over that hurdle, there are a million questions and reactions waiting for you. When it comes like WHAM, it can be jolting. It's very normal. But you'll do fine and congratulations on your date. You'll love being on the losing side.
   — susanje

August 20, 2003
You are perfectly normal. I got my approval on June 4, had pre-op testing on June 5 and surgery on June 12. I spent the weekend before surgery cleaning house in order to stay busy. At the time, I was a little upset because I didn't have time to "plan" (even though I'd spent several months getting approvals) but in the end, I'm very glad that I was able to get in and get on with my new life. I'm now almost 10 weeks post op and down 40+ pounds and happy to know that by the end of the year I should be down another 30-40 and my goal will be in sight. Good Luck and Congratulations !!
   — Carolyn M.

August 20, 2003
If it was me I'd call back and take the 27th. The sooner you can start your new healthy life the better. If you know in your heart this is what you want then go for it. You will do great. 4 extra days to think and fret will just drive you nuts!
   — zoedogcbr

August 20, 2003
Your just scared. It's natural. Everyone is scared. But it was the best decision I have ever made in my life!! The day I had WLS was the day my life started. I wish I could have done it 20 years ago.
   — Patty H.

August 20, 2003
Congrats!!! You are normal and about to become a LOSER!!! : ) I used to cfonsider June 3rd to be my birthday but now I think I will start celebrating it on February 12th, the day my life started. 6 months out and down from 287 to 187 : ) You will do GREAT!! Peggy
   — Peggy B.

August 20, 2003
Very normal. I had less than 10 days notice. My big thing was, "Have I eaten all that I want to eat?" Silly, I know. But I decided I had 50 years of heavy eating and it was time to take care of myself. I was ready when the day came once I had resolved my eating issues.
   — Margaret G.

August 20, 2003
I found out in April that I was approved but didn't have my surgery until June - several reason - kids out of school and I could be home, trains more crowded in late June/early July (didn't want anyone to bump me), husband's vacation. I was ready, but like you I had to have time to prepare myself and my family. Just tell the facility you need the next appointment beause of family issues, they'll understand.
   — dolphins94

August 20, 2003
Hello. I want to thank everyone for responding. You have helped me out a lot. I know I will go through with the surgery and I thought about getting the earlier date but I think I will stick with the 1st. It's a Holiday. :) Thanks again.
   — AmyWollet

Click Here to Return