Question:
Okay I admit it ... I'm nervous and getting scared ...

As a Post-Op down over 200 lbs since I originally started, one would think I'm a veteran to WLS and that I wouldn't have the same fears new surgery patients have going in for the first time, HOWEVER, I'm finding as my surgery date for my revision from the Proximal RNY to a Distal RNY gets closer and closer that I am getting all those emotions creeping in that I've been trying to help calm in others approaching their surgery! The good thing is that I know my surgeon is capable and talented and I trust him completely since my revision will be done by the same surgeon who did my original surgery. However, when we started talking airline tickets, and travel arrangements and possible dates for my surgery, I've been having one helluva day of anxiety, excitement, worry, fear, happiness and everything else I've described to others. :::Breathing Deeply to avoid hyperventilating::: So ... I guess I'm asking too ... for all the reassurances that all will be okay and I'll be fine too ... and my fears are normal :::GULP::: All POSITIVE feedback welcome :) I already know all the risks so I don't really want to hear about potential complications and horror stories, I've read them all and heard them all already :) Thanks!    — Sherrie G. (posted on July 28, 1999)

July 27, 1999
Sherri, I feel the same way you do. I am having a revision to VBG on August 20, 1999. I have done this before and I thought it would be easier this time but as the time gets closer I am scared to death. I can't offer any advice but that I am going through the same thing. I have also read all the horror stories and I am still doing it. My surgen is the same and I have all the confidence in the world in him, but I am scared. I just wanted to let you know, I know exactly how you feel!!!!
   — [Anonymous]

July 27, 1999
Thanks "Annonymous" for your response ... It's nice to know I'm not alone. I feel the same, I have all the confidence in the world in my surgeon, and I know all the risks, but while I'm thrilled that I am 200 lbs lighter than I was 5 years ago, I am not happy at 300+/- I need to get the last 150 off so I can participate fully in life! Best wishes to you on your surgery, looks like we may just be having our surgeries within a day of one another! P.S. Write me if you wish privately if you want to talk. Thanks!
   — Sherrie G.

July 27, 1999
Dear Sherrie, Don't you worry. We are all pulling for you. From what I have heard your reactions are very normal. Like you said your surgeon is capable and he will be the instrument to help you have a new life. Focus on a year from now and visualize the new you. Next time we hear from you will be on the mend. Good Luck and God Bless Carol Taylor
   — Carol T.

July 27, 1999
Sherrie, You will be just fine. I have you in my prayers as will so many of our web sisters and brothers. It is so normal to have the fears you have. I would worry about someone who had absolutely no fear when having this done. The thing to remember is that your surgeon already knows you, knows your case, and you like and trust him. Put your trust in him and in the One Above and things will be fine. Your case is so typical of so many of us, It is so easy to say "Oh yeah, do it, don't worry just do it", but when it is our turn to just do it, it is different somehow... I understand how you feel. I had the same fears prior to my open RNY in 1995. The only difference was that I had diabetic neuropathy in my feet and was told that unless I got the weight off and fast I would probably loose both my feet. Maybe for me that made me realize that this surgery is really a life SAVING option. Which is really what it is anyway, isn't it? We are all having this done as a life SAVING means. Say a prayer, Trust that He hears you, Remember that we are all praying with you, and then relax and let Him take care of you. Keep us posted. We all care or we wouldn't be here. Your web sister!!
   — Peggy W.

July 28, 1999
Do it Do it Do it. I too have had a revision and a repair I went from the VBG to a bypass and could not be happier. I don't fear that I will gain my weight back. Just follow your doctors instructions about protien, vitamins and blood work and you will be fine. Good Luck
   — Kim C.

July 28, 1999
Hi Sherrie: I can relate! My surgery is scheduled for 7:30am TOMORROW MORNING!!! I'm so excited, and so scared, but here is my secret: PRAYER! It works! Good luck with yours, and God bless us all! Jaye Carl
   — Jaye C.