I have a date!

July 17th! At the Wish Center in Renton, WA. I decided to go with the lap RNY. Even though it is 5K more, I think it is worth it, since we have to self pay and there is less chance of complications in the long run. Plus, I've had lap surgery and the recovery is SO much easier. I feel so relieved to have the decision made. The Dr said he thought that was the best choice as the band makes GERD worse and RNY cures it. Plus I have a much better chance of losing enough to really extend my life. He said with the band, you always have a foriegn body in you that could cause problems or stop working, but with RNY, your body adjusts and regenerates. I don't know if that's true, but it made sense to me. I need this to work the first time. He said even at my weight I am on the healthy side of the people he operates on, so I have an excellent chance to recover. Their statistics are 1 death in 1680 procedures, much better than 1 in 200. I start the 'practice' diet today, and excercising 6 times a week. They want you to practice eating like you have to after RNY. You have to keep a log of your diet and excercise and if you do not do it, they postpone your surgery until you do. I start liquids on July 3. It's exciting to think that in a few months I could have a much healthier body and be able to do things I have not done in 10 -15 years. My kids are so excited. They keep talking about what it will be like to have me be able to do things with them, instead of staying home and cooking. Even just walking some distance! (they are 24, 26, 29) I want to go camping again, boating, go to movies (I have not been to a movie in a theatre since Evita) concerts, etc. Just the idea of not worrying about whether I can sit in the chairs everywhere I go will be thrilling. I still want to do it this morning, so I think it's good. I had been changing my mind almost every day, sometimes hourly. Thanks for all your input with I asked about this the other day, it really helped. Julie in WA

Hello Julie, Congratulations on your surgery day. I think you made a great decision. Wishing you a speedy recovery and best wishes on your journey. (((hugs))) Diana 379/174/? starting bmi 62

Hey Julie, Happy surgery date!!! I know you are so excited. And the choice you made for your type of surgery is a personal one and as long as you feel you made the right one, thats all that matters. Your family sounds like mine. I have great cheerleaders in my corner to.( had three girls, all grown too). And the more weight you lose the more energetic you will be. So get ready for the ride of a lifetime.... Hugs Marge

congratulations, and best wishes

Congratulations and best wishes! Kim

I just wanted to say thanks to all of you for the support. I went to my PCP today and she is ok with my choice too, so that is such a relief Julie