needed: thicker skin and stronger spine

This is my first post here.  I've been reading posts quietly for a while, but something happened Friday that I can't get out of my head.

Background:  I am just starting the journey for RNY.  I've done my research.  Went to an intro/info session.  Had a consult with a surgeon.  And just went back to my PCP Friday to start doing all the screening tests that the surgeon and PPO want.

Issue:  So, the nurse at my PCP office takes me in to the exam room and asks what I am there for that day.  I tell her that I decided to have RNY and that I need to talk with the doc about tests and support and everything.  She begins to GRILL me about why I chose RNY over the Band.  Apparently, she's had the Band and simply can not understand why anyone would do anything else.  She's treated SO many people who've had RNY who are now suffering with health issues.

So, here's my beef:  I get that there are health issues -- for any WLS.  I get that there are health issues in not losing weight.  But who in the world does this nurse think she is?!?!  She's not my doc.  She's not even A doc.  And frankly, I'm not paying my co-pay for HER opinion.  Honestly, I think I am more angry at myself for not telling her "thanks, but shut it."
 
I need to get a thicker skin and a stronger spine if I'm going to make it through all this, huh?

(My doc, btw, was great.  She said she wished I would consider the less invasive option, but would support me no matter what my decision.)

Calicricket,

I am sorry you had to have this experience.  A lot of people that have had a specific surgery put down others for their choice of a different surgery then they have.  Personaly I could care less and from my experience most of those on this board don't either.  We support your effort to change your life for the better.  I have freinds that have had the lap bad that are doing well, and not doing well.  I know others that have had nothing but problems from their RNY, myself have had nothing but success.  Same with the DS.  Each person should do what they believe is right for them.  I only wish that people would keep their noses out of other's people business.  If you wanted her opinion you would have asked.  Honestly I would file a complaint with your doctor about her.  that is just wrong.  It is wrong no matter what surgery she has had or reommends.  I wish you the best with your surgery.  Take care and best wishes.

Rhonda

Welcome to OH!  This website has been so important to me throughout my journey.  I encourage you to use it as a tool.

For me, education is the key.  I just went into my dr's office & said this is what I'm going to do.  I wrote my own letter of necessity & had the doctor sign it.  When I first started investigating surgeries, most people thought Lapband was the answer.  I did too.  I liked that it was reversable and such, but after doing the research & learning about all the bad things that could happen & the high failure rate, I decided on the RNY.  After learning everything I could about RNY & attending a seminar, I knew I HAD TO HAVE WLS.  I started the steps to have RNY.  Then I learned about DS.  I studied it.  I did so many comparison charts & kept going back & forth from RNY to DS.  I finally decided on DS.  I am so glad I did. 

My advice to you is to research & do what is best for you.  Don't let anyone talk you into or out of what you know is right for you! 

Best wishes!  & if I can be of any assistance, please let me know!