The first week of the rest of my life (Aug 21, 09)

Aug 22, 2009

Earlier this month when I hit 300 lbs, I totally broke down. I remember in college when I was a cheerleader, I would look at overweight people and wonder how they could ever let themselves even near 200 lbs! It sure doesn't happen overnight, but after 3 kids in 4 years and a very sedentary lifestyle, here I am. I need a change and I need it now. My health is going down the toilet, and even as I type this I'm wearing a portable heart monitor to try and determine why I've been having a racing heart and 160/110 blood pressures.

8/18/09: Monday night I went to the Unity Bariatric weight loss surgery informational meeting. It was eye-opening. I was so impressed with the nurses, speakers, surgeon and former patients who gave their testimonials, I signed up for a consult with a bariatric nurse.

8/20/09: Thursday I met with my family doctor who has been with me for over 8 years. She knows all my history and has watched my weight go plus and minus 30-40 pounds many times over the years. Upon seeing my new BP issues and other complaints, she said she supports my decission to pursue this surgery. She has even sent other patients to Unity. She ordered bloodwork for me and did an EKG. She even said she'd write a support letter for insurance.

8/21/09: Friday I had my consult with the nurse. My weigh in was 297 with a BMI of 45.9. WOW! She took a "before" picture, which I will post later. She thinks I am a good candidate and thinks HealthPartners will not have a problem approving the procedure. I have to lose at least 16 lbs. before they will schedule surgery. I can do it!!! When I got home I called and scheduled my 4 psych eval appointments all before the end of September. My required dietician appointment is Sept. 3. By the end of Septemeber they should have all the info to send to HealthPartners and then I sit and wait for my approval call to schedule the surgery.

It seems like so much progress for just the first week... but with my wonderful husband and doctor's support, I know I can do this... for me, for my kids... I'm filled with hope right now!!!

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