8 days and counting

Jan 04, 2010

Hi

My name is Debbie and I am 52 years old.  I have been on this journey for most of my life.... overweight.  My first diet was at 14.  I have attempted more diets and weight loss remedies than I really care to admit some didn't work, some helped lose a little, some helped to lose a lot.... but I always gained it all back and usually then some to get to where I am today 5' 6", 234 pounds and a BMI of 37 or 38.

In December of 2008 I seriously began to research surgery options for weight loss.  Certain I would not qualify for RNY, I was considering the lap band.  My primary physcian was against either surgery and convinced me to attempt one more try one more round with diet medication... Meridia... I lost 21 pounds in 3 months.  Then it was necessary to have shoulder surgery  and I had to go off the meridia.  There were complications with the surgery ... I ended up with a nerve palsy in my lower left leg, losing use of sensory and motor function in lower leg and foot I quickly regained the weight I lost and then some.  In October, I went to see Dr Swartz.  My weight now higher than it has ever been and looking for a solution.  Dr Swartz informed me that I was an excellent candidater for the surgery and I was beside myself.

In December, after seeing several doctors to get medical clearance, my cardiologist gave me the okay.  In two months I could not believe what was happening to my health... I have always been healthy... now I plantars faciitis in both feet, GERD, urinary incontenence, diabling fatigue, elevated blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, elevated blood sugar, along with the bilateral knee replacements from 2006, left knee revision in 2008, and shoulder surgery in 5/2009.  My insurance authorized the surgery on December 17th and here I am counting down.  I am excited, scared, anxious, apprehensive, and hopeful.  My husband is all for me doing what I need to regain my health and so am I.

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