Today I completed by pre-op appointments with my doctor and the hospital admissions staff placing me one step closer to my surgery. The good news is that I'm only two weeks away from the big day.  The bad news is that the doctor said it's time for me to start my two week liquid diet.  Did he forget that Thanksgiving is right around the corner?  Okay, I know that wls requires a commitment to changing my eating habits; so, I guess that this is as good of a time as any to get myself into gear (not to mention, I can finally concentrate on losing those 10 pounds I promised myself that I'd get rid of before surgery). I'll give the liquid diet a good try, but I'll make no promises about Thanksgiving.

I have less than one month before my surgery and the hard part is just beginning. My mind is starting to play tricks on me. Yesterday I found myself doubting whether I should continue with my plans for surgery or not.  After all,  I 've lost weight on my own before. I'm sure that I could do it again especially since I'm really tired of the extra pounds I've put on. The problem is that I've always gained the weight back. So, I'm just going to ignore my doubts this time.. chalk them up to another example of self destructive behavior    and push forward.

The only way I'm turning back is for medical reasons and so far there aren't any indications that I shouldn't.

Yesterday I went in for my EGD exam. I must say that it was not an unpleasant experience at all. The staff at Memorial Herman were friendly and professional and the environment was that of five star hotel. I must add that the anesthesiologist made the best cocktail ever. My biggest concerns were that the procedure would be painful (gag) or that I would wake up during the middle of it. However, I woke up feeling refreshed after the short 20 minute procedure.
I honestly didn't believe that it was complete and questioned the nurse and a couple of other staff members repeatedly while in recovery. I've never been hypnotized, but maybe this is what the experience feels like.
For anyone who stumbles across my blog, here is more info on the procedure.
EGD: (Esophagogastrodudenoscopy):

What is an EGD?

  This procedure allows the doctor to examine your esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (the first section of your small bowel).  The purpose of an EGD is to look for any problems or irregularities with your esophagus, stomach, or duodenum. 

What can expect before this procedure?

In preparation for an EGD, do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before the exam.  You must arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure. 

An EGD is a safe exam; however it does have some risks.  Complications are rare but can include the following:

1. Adverse reaction to the anesthetic
2. Potential for infection
3. Possible bleeding
4. Possible perforation in the areas where the endoscope was passed

If you are diabetic and take insulin or oral medications for your diabetes, you will need to check with your primary care physician about adjusting your dose of insulin/medications on the day of your procedure. 
 
What can I expect during this procedure?

To begin this procedure, your physician will give you a small dose of anesthetic to help you relax during the exam.  This will be given to you through an IV which will be put into one of your veins prior to starting the procedure.  You will swallow a thin flexible tube called an endoscope.  The physician will then use the endoscope to examine your esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.  Any irregular specimens can be removed at the time of your procedure and sent for biopsy. 

 

Today I found out that I was approved for wls. I'm ecstatic to say the least. I found out inadvertently while calling to check on the status of some medical records. Now the only thing between me and the surgery are my nerves and the EGD exam. I'm not looking forward to having a scope placed down my throat, but I've come this far so...

Today I went in for my final weight management class. I can't believe how quickly the time has passed. This visit was especially significant because I had to give my official choice of wls. After much debate I've chosen the gastric bypass. It won't be a popular decision for my friends (those of whom I mentioned my interest in wls).  They have all pushed for the lapband.
However, after doing my own research, examing my food issues, and weight loss goals, I think it's right for me. And that's really all that matters. After all, life is short and I intend to live mine to the fullest!
One last hurdle... I still need to get the rest of my medical records forwarded and take the dreaded EGD test. They'll have to sediate me really good for that or else I'll be.