Question:
I am having Gastric bypass surgery, scared, can you help me.

I am very excited about having the gastric bypass, although I need help with other people's experiences. I should be getting the surgery in about 2-3 months. I would love to hear from other people who went through surgery and how they managed the months ofter. I have been reading other people's testimonies and I am very nervous. I currently weight 335 lbs and need to lose at least half of my weight. I am 50 yrs old and have young children that I need to kept up with. I have been trying to lose weight for over 20 years, since I had my first baby. I am looking for support and guidance from other people who have shared the same feeling. Please help.    — Donna M. (posted on February 7, 2009)


February 7, 2009
Donna, Congratulations on making the decision for surgery. I had RNY 2/28/09 and started my journey with a BMI of about 66. I was 49 years old and my doc told me that I would not live to see my 60th birthday if I did not take responsibility for my health. I am sure most everyone here agrees that they would do this again in a heartbeat. There are ups and downs with anytype of WLS but it has opened up the opportunities in my life. I actually spent a wonderful week in California for my 50th birthday which I couldn't have dreamed would ever happen. Ask anything you need to know from everyone here and it will help. Send me a message via my profile anytime - Auntpamcakes4six. I just want everyone to feel as good as I do!!!! Keep us posted and best wishes!
   — AuntPamcakes4six

February 7, 2009
I can tell you that having the RNY was the best thing I ever did, next to having my kids. I had no problems at all. I was 52 years old. I can move so much easier now. It's been an exciting, wonderful experience. You'll get loads of support here on the message boards. Put your posting on the main message board and you'll likely hear from quite a few people. Best of luck in your journey. Lindie
   — lindie

February 7, 2009
I had RNY 3/28 and I wouldn't change a thing. It is a challange to learn what you can eat and when. It is a challange to work "me" time into your crazy schedule with work and children, but I have 2 kids at home and work full time and going to school full time. I just decided to make myself important. Good luck... you can chat any time. [email protected]
   — phyllismmay

February 7, 2009
Educate yourself as best as you can. Attend nutrition classes & a support group. I don't know it all, by any means, but I learned as much as I could before surgery.I'm 5 months out and almost 70 lbs down....I'm 51....and I feel better than I have in many years. Following the new way of eating and keeping up with the supplements and reaching daily protein requirements are an absolute. I've strayed a bit here & there...the surgery does not give you more will power but it does help you to control the amount of food you eat....you have to control the choices AND be prepared to work at exercising (I swim). i will be truthful.... some of the "bad foods" are much easier to get down than the "good foods" and if you were a grazer before surgery, you will still have the same impulses....I know I do.....but then I set myself straight by reinforcing "I got my plumbing re-routed..this is my chance...and I must try my hardest." I still have another 60-70 lbs that I want to lose. the one thing I hear over and over is that post ops who attend support meetings on a regular basis are more likely to keep the weight off. Keeping the weight off is what scares me most. Good luck to you. Dee
   — Dee L.

February 7, 2009
First thing to do is to find a support group in your area. There you'll be able to ask questions and hear about recent post ops and their experiences on their RNY journey. More than likely, you'll be able to find new friends there who can help you through any difficult times as you learn the new RNY post op lifestyle. Key things to remember, are that the surgery is only a tool towards wt loss. The first 6 months are the "learning" time, and where you'll lose the wt at the fastest rate. After 6 months, the wt loss slows way down. I lost 100 pounds in the first 7 months after my surgery, and it took a full 24 months until I got to my lowest wt. I attended wt loss support group meetings faithfully, and I beleive them to be an important step in your overall success. You can start prior to surgery by doing some form of daily exercise, drinking water, giving up sodas--sweets--high calorie foods--foods with a lot of refined carbs (pasta, breads, etc.) Doing these few things prior to surgery will help you lose wt and get into practicing what you'll have to do as a post op. My profile story might be interested for you to read. Good luck on your journey. DAVE
   — Dave Chambers

February 7, 2009
Donna I had my rny surgery 3/12/08 and it has been the best decision I have made for my health. I am 50 yrs old and I have lost 105lbs, this is a life style change and you will need to remember that. There will be some bumps along the way but remember the goal you have set for yourself to be healty and live longer. May God bless you on this wonderful journey. Keep in touch. Charnita
   — cbraxton

February 7, 2009
Donna, I too am scheduled for RNY a week from this Monday (2/16). What I would suggest to you is to find yourself a good surgeon & that would be a surgeon who is Board Certified & does this type of surgery ONLY. I felt more comfortable w/my surgeon who does ONLY these types of surgeries & not a surgeon who is all over the place. In my opinion, my surgeon has perfected this surgery & I feel that I'm in good hands. He performs these types of surgeries 3-4 of them a week. Secondly, make sure that the surgeon answers all your questions & that his/her staff is willing to help and answer your questions as well. Change is a difficult thing to do. We humans don't care too much for change & the unknown but as someone once said, "the greatest risk is not taking one". I am excited about my upcoming surgery because it will get rid of my diabetes & will make me healthier in the long run. I think not doing anything to better your health is the scariest of them all. I hope I helped somehow. Do a lot of research & get yourself a top notch doctor. If you get your family to support you, you'll be fine. Good luck! Ruth
   — Ruth M.

February 7, 2009
Donna, Congratulations on your decision. Understand your nervousness. I'm 54 and had WLS 21 years ago. I too battled weight all my life and I am still battling. Its a lifelong commitment no doubt but anything worthwhile is. I do fine. I weighed almost 500 pounds when I had my surgery. I am now doing some different things such as swimming, exercise, yoga and a food moderation behavior I like to call it. A lot of yogurt is consumed but I like yogurt. I have also stopped smoking; almost 4 years now. You need to pay attention to everything your doctors, nutritionists, and psychologists or counselors tell you. People become heavy for different reasons. I'm getting to where more and more I make and cook all my own food. I just don't want all the added preservatives and sugar and salt that is in most processed food. As far as keeping up with the little ones; I have 5 grown kids and 7 soon to be 8 grandkids. I think my oldest who has all the kids needs to watch. Her father and I were both heavy. Anyways, sorry I rambled some. If you follow your program you usually do fine. Even if you move you can find doctors who are willing to work with you; that is important and you need to trust the doctor you choose. You will also find out that there is no "magic fix" to weight loss. I am currently quite active in training for an event but that isn't for all of us; I am saying if you start out with a short walk as soon as you are able after surgery it will help in many ways. "Each journey begins with one step"....Let us know whats going on with you; i'm [email protected] if you want to email me personally. Also a website called eons.com you might want to try. Good Luck and God Bless, vinnigirl, retired RN
   — vinnigirl

February 7, 2009
Best wishes for you as you begin the Journey. I had my surgery (RNY Gastric ByPass) 22 JUL 2008. My BMI was 40 then and I had High Blood Press, Sleep Apnea, High Cholesterol, Borderline diabetes, low energy, low libido, etc. I did,t like looking in the mirror. I was back to work in 3 weeks (felt ready sooner but gave it an extra week). Today I have a BMI of 25, Normal Blood Pressure, Cholesterol of 136, I don't snore or have sleep apnea, normal blood sugars, plenty of enery, and the libido of an 18 year old. I look marvelous :) I am very glad I had my surgery.
   — Bill_Nagle52

February 8, 2009
Hi Donna I am 54 had Lap Rny March 25, 2008 my weight the day of surgery was 390 this morning I weigh 196.4. I have had a few problems but they could never outweigh the benefits of losing the weight I have lost. I have lost 100s of pounds over the years and always gained them back. People almost don't reconize me now. I get so many compliments. I do have a lot of extra skin but just to go to WalMart and buy off the shelf is amazing. I hope one day to be able to remove the skin but if I don't it is OK I am healthy and free from 194 pounds that is an entire obese person. You can write me anytime [email protected] I live in south La. Good Luck and I know you will be happy to get rid of that excess weight.
   — KajunMomX3

February 8, 2009
Donna congratulations on you decision to have WLS. Being scared is a normal healthy feeling. Like the others have stated this is a life choice not to be taken lightly. For me, it has been one of the best decisions I ever made. I had lap RNY 12/9/2008 with no complications. I've lost 75 lbs. The keys to my success are my support system: I signed on with a surgeon and practice that provide support, regular follow-up care, access to a dietician and nutritionist for the rest of my life. My family members are a huge part of my support system. They have been involved from the beginning. Lastly, find a support group!! I attend a local WLS meeting once a month. The members have become like family. They are supportive and understanding because we all have something in common; obesity! It's wonderful to see first hand the good results, get advice on no-no's, and support when you're feeling scared. I wish you the best of luck and hope to see you on the "losing side of things" soon! LisaRae
   — Fircrkr64

February 8, 2009
Hi Donna...1st of all, Congratulations on your decision to have WLS...you're in for quite a ride !! I also agree with Dave...finding a Support Group is a must...you're with people who are going thru or have gone thru the same thing, can relate, and know exactly what you're talking about. I had (open) RNY on Nov. 4th, '08, I'm 50 years old and feel great !! I'm down (almost) 50 lbs., 3 jean sizes and 2 blouse sizes !! I was a Type II diabetic, taking 3 pills a day, had meds. for high BP and high cholesterol...I am now off ALL medication and loving it !! The nervousness is perfectly normal...we've all "been there done that"...I want to wish you all the very best and hope you'll keep us posted !! Take Care ~
   — debz_58

February 9, 2009
Hi Donna. I'm excited for you...you are entering the most amazing time in your life. I had my surgery on Sept. 4th, 2008. So far I have lost 78 pounds and my life has changed in every way. I am doing everything I used to do, and I feel wonderful. Have you read Weight Loss Surgery for Dummies? That book helped me a lot in preparing for the whole experience. Best of luck to you, and congratulations! Susan
   — ssg216

February 9, 2009
Hi Donna, Congrats on your decision! Follow all instructions to the letter and you will be fine. I had LAP RNY on Dec/10/08. Best decision I ever made. I just came back from the gym and for the first time in the last 25 years (I'm 54) I can do 1/2 hour workout from start to finish. My energy level is up and I can actually tie my own shoes. I wore strappy sandals yesterday for the first time in 20 years. Good luck with your program, just remember to take enough time out to recuperate properly. Blessings! carolcooper
   — carolcooper




Click Here to Return
×