My surgery date was June 16, 2009, I had open RNY due to scar tissue from the removal or my spleen and gall bladder at an earlier time in my life. I weighed in at 266.4. It took me six years to make the decision for the surgery. Three years ago, in the same year, I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, hypertension and fibromyalgia. I stopped working in my chosen field of nursing, because I was afraid that with my weight and shortness of breath that I would not be able to get to my patients in time. I could not have lived with myself if someone had died by me not being able to perform my job. Two years ago, my savings ran out and I had no choice but to return to work. Three days into orientation I had a heart attack. I had a stress test done and an angiogram. I failed the stress test and the doctor stated that my arteries had no blockage. After further testing we discovered that I had an extra current running through my heart putting me into tachycardia. I knew at this time I wanted to live, I was only 47. After discussing with my PCP, we decided that gastric bypass might be a good option for me. They kept me drugged up in the hospital, which was a good thing, because I remember nothing about the hospital stay. They medicated me for a two hour ride home, which I also do not remember. I did have a longer hospital stay than anticipated, due to complications with the dissolvable sutures and steri strip tape. Learning what I can and cannot eat has been a challenge, I have good days and bad. At this time my blood sugars have been within normal limits, my high blood pressure has come down, but am still having periods of tachycardia. I’m proud to say that I have lost over 80 lbs, going from a size 26 to a size 12! I have more self-esteem, I don’t isolate myself in my bedroom and  now I do want to go out and be around people. Anyone who says, I took the easy way out, by no means was this easy. The yo-yo diets were going to kill me. In January 2010, I take a repeat stress test and pray that it works so that I may return back to nursing. For me, this surgery was well worth it, and I have no doubts that I will reach my main goal 130lbs. I want to thank the obese help support group and all the members who have helped me along this journey.

Tboyd46