Steph- No worries about my arm. You have enough on your plate. I have been thinking about WLS for a long time. I did not sure my feelings with anyone. After tons of research and talking to two sisters in my congregation that had the surgery I decided to talk to my doctor. I was surprised that she immediately put in the referral April 28th. I still was not going to get my hopes up. DH said whatever makes me happy, but he loves me as I am. I did say anything to my mom until after I went to the required classes. She overreacted of course, saying I was taking desparate measures. Why couldn't I just diet and exercise? As if I had not be doing that since I was 13 years old. She kept telling me every chance she got that she would like me to go on a six month nutrition program with a real doctor (of which I already did). I started to ignore her and then I decided to stand up for myself. Side note even though she felt this way she still came with me on my appointments. Anyways I finally tried to reason with her.
I told her many people think heavy set individuals are lazy and express 'why don't they just exercise and eat less'! I asked her if she felt I was lazy? I know bold question but I was emotional and tried. She has had me on a diet my entire life. Don't eat that, exercise more, 'you would look so pretty if you just lost the weight'. My dad even offered me money to lose the weight and keep it off, it was a lot and I tried hard, only to gain it all back.
I know they are just scared about my physical health and possibly losing me. So getting back to my mom. She was quiet for some time and never really said anything about our conversation. I told her later that I want to be able to play with my children without getting exhausted. Fit in any seat that I choose, i.e. airplane, etc.
She asked me if I would be able to stick to the diet after the surgery. I told her that is the whole thing I will not be dieting anymore. I can still eat healthy as I do, but my body will have a fighting chance. With the surgery your brain thinks differently and becomes satisfied with less. It is just a tool not a miracle. I will still be doing what I have always tried to do but with a little help.
I have encouraged her to educated herself about the surgery beyond what I have told her. In the end I know she is scared she might lose me. After all the surgery is elective and I don't have to have it done.
I would of had it done sooner but the first surgeon refused to do the surgery without blood. I challenged him and the insurance referred me out for a second opinion. I had to start the whole process over again, tests, classes, nutrition, etc with the new surgeon. But once the new doctor submitted the letter for approval, the insurance agreed within five days! I was shocked.
I remember you mentioning you can have children afterwards. They like to wait about one year postop. But there is no physical problems in regards to the surgery that would stop you from having children.
If I think of anything more I will be sure to let you know.
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Last edited by omcv; 10-08-2008 at 04:07 PM.
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