Question:
I just want to give all pre-ops a word of encouragement.

I realize that his is a tough decision. I just want to tell you that it has been such a blessing for me. I would do it 100 times more if I needed it. I was terrified of having this surgery. The truth is that I almost didn't go through with it because of the risks involved. However, I gave my concerns to God. My own worrying could not have changed the outcome, but God can. If you are so worried that you can not think of anything else, give it to God or write me. I will give it to God for you! He will be glad to take that load off of you!    — Stephanie N. (posted on March 26, 2002)

March 25, 2002
Thank you...I have already put it in the hands of my God. My pastor is going to be at the hospital with me along with most of the deacons. My Dr is allowing my pastor to pray over his hands. The way i see it I am not scared to die because I know I will see the lords face when I am heaven. To all other posters get to know God he is your father and if you want to live eternal life all you have to do is seek his word and pray. BIBLE (Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth)
   — Lovett

March 26, 2002
Thank you so much for posting ~ I had vowed to try and stay away from the message board only until surgery was handled because my nerves have been shot. I don't know what I have been in fear of - maybe it's the fact that I feel I've been given everything I could possibly dream of as far as relationships...an incredible extended family with my parents and on down the line (there's at least 60 relatives in my home town - all close knit) - my soul mate / twin heart and I have shared a life since 1995, my beautiful daughter who is a major light in my life - almost 20 years old and then her precious, precious son. I have felt the intensity of how special it is to be loved and I share in a close connection with God with all of these people. I keep thinking "what if He feels my time is up" and I'M NOT READY !! :) Nerves are shot but I'm trying real hard to release the fear...my girlfriend told me I need to talk to "Mr. Fear" as is it were a person. Feels a little dumb but at this point, I'm willing to try anything. Surgery in 2-weeks from today and this morning my prayers was to just let me be strong...not as much for myself but for others. I don't want them worrying or having to see me a mess. I can handle the pain - that's not a concern of mine...I just want to be here on the other side to endure the pain. Thanks for posting ~ I am glad to hear that this emotional roller coaster is somewhat normal.
   — Lisa J.

March 26, 2002
I agree with you 100%. I too had put my life into Gods hands. I even told my husband that if it was MY TIME, that the Lord would take me to be with Him, and that I had finished on this earth what I had been put here to accomplish. I had no fear going into surgery, I had an extreme unexplainable peace that was overwhelming. I was so calm, and even joking with the surgeons and staff in the OR before they put me out. It was so relaxing and freeing to give the Lord all of my worries, and not have to stress about anything. I felt that God had lead me to WLS because He wanted me to be healthy and free from the bondage of food. He has given me such a wonderful gift.
   — Cheri M.

March 26, 2002
Thank you for taking the time to post these encouraging words...would you please put into God's hands my getting to have the surgery? One of my pre-op screening tests (psych) did not turn out to be suppportive of me having WLS, so I am having to scramble to find a different psychiatrist and get a clearance letter - for sugery scheduled in 10 days!!! Please pray that this works for me...I have moved mountains to get this surgery, I know I am mentally healthy, aware of all the risks, etc...and I just want to know if ins. is going to pay for it or NOT. God Bless!
   — rebeccamayhew

March 26, 2002
Thanks SO much to the original poster, and to everyone who posted responses to this. My surgery is in about two weeks, and reading this thread helped my jitters, a LOT. Thank you.
   — Linda B.

March 26, 2002
Thank you so much for your very encouraging words. I feel like it was a special little message from the Lord, intended just for me (for all the others too...grin). He's reminding me that He's in control and that I have Him watching out for me. I have prayed that if this was not part of His plan for my life that He would totally prevent it from happening. I came to terms with that and decided that I would accept whatever He chose. PTL...I have a surgery date. It's Monday, April 29. Love ya'll!
   — Tammy W.

March 26, 2002
I am so glad to see the positive responses so far! I just wanted to add that it is the devil that tries to confuse us with doubt and death. He wants to keep us miserable and depressed so that we look to everything but God to answer our problems. God wants to carry us. He wants our friendship and trust. He will bless you even when you don't deserve it. Believe me, I know that more than anyone!
   — Stephanie N.