Advising employer

Hi again, I am still awaiting the insurance approval, however I was wondering...Has anyone advised their employer that they are having surgery but not what type? I can't imagine not being specific but someone suggested I do so. I mean, what about eating afterwards? I'm sure if I am honest and open with them they wouldn't bring in any temptations, at least I hope so! What was your experience like? Maryellen R. WLS 7/31/06?... hopefully!

You are under no obligation, legally or otherwise, to tell your employer what type of surgery you having. You can if you want to, of course, but that's completely up to you. As far as people bringing in temptations, you can't expect others to change their habits because of you. It's not really a fair thing to ask. I don't think you really need to worry about that. You know how hard you worked to have this surgery and the pain afterward that you won't want to go near any of those things. You will also be so afraid that something might make you sick, that you won't take the chance. Especially not at work. Just take it one step at a time and you'll do great. Joanne

Hello, I just told my manager on Friday. I was not specific just that it was weight loss surgery and he was very supportive. Although, baed on our corporate policies, I'm not required to tell him anything, other than I'll be out and this is how long. It really depends on your manager in my opinion. If it were anyone else I would have been much more vague. Good luck! Renee

just wanted to say hi Maryellen! I am self employed so this didnt apply. BUT i did tell all my clients in my family daycare bussiness cause i didnt want them to think i was to ill of a person to watch there kids or that i had cancer or something. SO i opted to be upfront to them all that I was going for surgery and that it was gastric bypass surgery. I would add here telling your employer isnt going to change what they bring in the office as far as temptations. YOU would laugh if i told you what some of the clients gave to me for holiday gifts! SO people dont think! HUGZ lisa

When I told my boss I was having surgery, I told her what type it was right away, but I work for my HMO and my boss and most of the department are Nurses, so it was easy for me! They have been my biggest supporters!

Hi MaryEllen We tell people at or Support Group that if they have to tell their employer, just to say that you are having abdominal surgery. You don't need to give them specifics. Marie

I work in a very small office. In January, my boss sent out a memo for us to choose our vacation and put in what time we want off. Well, since I wanted the surgery this year, I wanted to save ALL my vacation for the surgery. I did tell my boss, and by the end of March, all 5 of the staff knew what I was doing. It's nice that they know, so I don't have to worry about "slipping" when I talk to the boss about my appts. They are all very supportive, I guess I'm really lucky. I guess it's up to you and how comfortable you feel about revealing information about your personal life. Best of luck to you.