Question:
I have done alot of research ,but am still a little bit concerned.

I have M.S. and have a BMI of 44. I really want to have the surgery, but am concerned that my disease will complicate things. I am only 40 years old and suffer from arthritis, joint degeneration and other things that are a result of a lifetime of being overweight. I'm pretty sure that it would be alot easier to drag by body around (if needed) if I weighed less. If anyone knows if my having M.S. would be a reason for me not to be a candidate for surgery please let me know. I have an appointment scheduled for Oct. 15th with a surgeon and really am hoping for good news. Thanks for any help in advance. Vicki M.    — [Anonymous] (posted on October 8, 2001)

October 8, 2001
I too have MS and will be having surgery in December. The only risk my surgeon was worried about was a slower healing process, and the potential to have an attack due to the stress from surgery. My Aunt who also has MS had a RNY two years ago with absolutely no complications and interestingly enough she hasn't had an attack since then. Good luck to you!
   — [Anonymous]

October 8, 2001
I have MS as well. I had my surgery (open RNY) in March 2001. Since then, I have lost 150 lbs. (+/-) About a month after the surgery, I had a cluster of pretty nasty attacks. I'll be honest - they were the worst attacks I have ever had. Now, though, 7 months out, I feel FANTASTIC. My MS has gone back into remission, and I feel better than I have in years. Was it worth it? YES. Feel free to email me, if you wish to chat more about MS and the surgery's effects on it.
   — Terissa R.

April 21, 2003
Vicki, I was dx with M.S. in 1987 and just had the roux n y gastric bypass on August 5, 2002. The surgery did not bring on my M.S. nor did it flair up anything. I feel that I'll be in a much better place (after losing much of my weight) when and if my M.S. comes back. I'm almost 9 months post-op and I am now just having minor problems with stiff joints and rib problems. As long as you are absolutely ready for wls - mind, body and soul, you shouldn't be stressed, nervous or worried. (all of which can bring on M.S. again if you let it bother you too much). Try and stay focused, calm and positive and everything will be just fine.
   — Jennifer M.