4 Year Surgiversary for Maureen

Hello Everyone,

Today I am 4 years out from my original DS and 1 year out from my DS revision.  The first 3 years weren't without complications but I'd do it again in a heartbeat.  I lost about 165 lbs.  The year following the revision, I was quite ill most of the time.

I had the revision because I had gradually gained back approx. 45 lbs. and my surgeon was going in to repair 3 more hernias -(I've had 5).    He suggested taking more of my stomach and I agreeed.  I really wish I hadn't because I've been sickly for the last year.  I did lose the 45 lbs. very quickly and am currently 134 lbs.

I still feel the benefits of the DS far outweigh the negatives and I personally recommend it as the best of the WLS - my opinion.

I can eat basically what I want.  I had IBS prior to surgery and continue to have it.  But now I can tell which foods I choose that are going to trigger it.  That's a huge improvement.

My best advice is to research, research, research.  This is a permanent change you are making to your body and it is life long.  I probably sound like a broken record since most of us who are a few years out say the same thing.

All the best,

Happy surgiversary, Maureen.  
Gina

Thanks so much, Gina.

My gosh you're a walking advertisement for the DS.  You've done so well with it.  Continued
Success.

Hugs,

I like to hear vets singing the  *broken records*.  Those that stick around and offer advice are my heroes, and I am ever so grateful.  So many of the vets are so open and willing to share their wisdom  -and-  their challenges, and I have learned so much more here than I ever could have from any surgical after-care program I have heard about.

I hope all of the bad stuff is behind you, and you continue to heal and thoroughly enjoy your life!

Hi Kimberly,

The numbers are climbing for DSer's in Micihigan  and that could only mean there are more people and seeking all the options available.  The DS isn't necessarily the right one for everyone.  But I would NEVER bad mouth another persons choice.  We are all given freedom of choice.

Be happy Kimberly.

Hugs

 I am so sorry that this past year has been so difficult for you, but I am grateful for your willingness to share the difficulties as a reminder that the DS is not like having your toenails clipped!  I am also very glad you're back on the boards and pray for your continued healing and strength daily!  Happy Anniversary!

Thanks for your kind words, Denise.  You'll soon be celebrating your 4th anniversary too.  I recall that your journey has also had some bumps in the road and here you are as supportive as ever..  Here's to our continued efforts in paying it forward through the good and the bad.

Love,

Happy Surgiversary, Maureen! I hope this is a much better year!

 Congratulations on all your successes! It sounds like a rough year, but it's behind you now. Are your labs good? I'm sure when you make a full recovery, you'll be back to your old energy. You are so right about the lifelong thing. What we did will be with us forever, for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health....No divorces from a DS...

Thanks Nancy,

For the most part my labs have been pretty good.  I've had to have a few iron infusions but they've come back up.  I've needed more than a few kicks in the butt to keep diligent with my supplements.  When I was just a few years out there was a period of time where I was missing a dose here and there - something I swore I'd never do but I did.  I've found the most challenging is getting in all the calcium but my levels are good.and I'm right on track.  There's just no ifs, ands or buts, if you don't think you'll be compliant then the DS shouldn't be considered.