nnewlin76

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  • BMI 36.1

Obesity & Me

Describe your behavioral and emotional battle with weight control before learning about bariatric surgery.

I've never really had any problems with weight until, at age 20, I had a miscarrage, and then my weight issues started. Now at age 35 and after having two children I topped the scales at 219. I've been diagnosed with PCOS, boarder-line diabetes, and depression. I've tried and failed many diet plans. I've done gyms, pills, weight watchers, and fad diets with no success. It wasn't until 6 mths ago that I made a decision that would change my life. My Lapband surgery is schedule for March 8. My doctor has put me on a two week liquid diet to help shrink my liver and jump start my weight loose. I started 3 days ago and it's has been hard, but I've been able to ressist many of my favorite foods. I've lost 6 lbs already! I so excited about my surgery and being able to get my life back.

What was (is) the worst thing about being overweight?

The worst thing about being overweight is the feeling that everyone is staring at me when I walk in a building. I hate going to the Walmart near my old high school in fear that some of my high friends would see me. Sometimes I would bump into them and have a panic attack. I remember at my bother's wedding I couldn't even get out on the dance floor. I had an emotional break down and had to leave. I've always felt like the "fat one in the family".

If you have had weight loss surgery already, what things do you most enjoy doing now that you weren't able to do before?

I've haven't had weight loss surgery yet. Surgery date is March 8.

How did you first find out about bariatric surgery and what were your initial impressions of it?

I first find out about Lapband from a friend at work. I was interested in what she was saying, and started to do some research.

Describe your experience with getting insurance approval for surgery. What advice, if any, do you have for other people in this stage?

I found it was cheaper to just pay out-of-pocket for my surgery. I am able to get my surgery much quicker without all the preop surgery junk that insurance makes you do.

What was your first visit with your surgeon like? How can people get the most out of this meeting?

I was very nervous at my first doctor's visit, but my doctor was great. He made me feel very comfortable and answered all my questions. My advise would be to go to the appointment with a list of questions. Do your research before the meeting so you'll know just what to ask.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

It seem to be the thing that could improve my health.

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

The cost and recovering time help me decide to have Lapband.

What fears did you have about having complications or even dying from from the surgery, and what would you tell other people having the same fears now?

I have fears about band slippage and still not being able to keep the weight off afterwards. You just have to put your trust in the Lord that and know that he will take care of everything.

How did your family and friends react to your decision? Would you have communicated anything differently if you could now? How supportive were they after your surgery?

Most of my family and friends are very happy and supportive. My mom was a little worried because she didn't know much about the surgery and the only person she knew that had Lapband regained her weight.

How did your employer/supervisor react to your decision? What did you tell him/her? How long were you out of work?

They were all very supportive. I'm planning on having my surgery on a Thursday and go back to work on Tuesday.

What was it like attending your first information seminar on weight loss surgery? Were you glad you attended? if so, why?

I haven't attended an information seminar.

How far did you travel to have your surgery? (If far, how did this affect your aftercare?)

I'm traveling to Raleigh. It's about a hour away.
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