Roach
I am a retired Deputy Sheriff from Ohio. I retired on disability due to heart failure, (a couple heart attacks, 14 stents, and a Pacemaker /Defibulator). I was always on the big side but after having to retire back in 07', the weight definately shot up. High weight was 304lbs.. My Heart Failure Specialist at the Ohio State University, suggested that I look into the lap band as a means to bring down the weight and to move up on the transplant list (when the time comes).
My first meeting with Dr. Needleman at OSU Bariatrics was in December of 2015 (304lbs.), he suggested the Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy over the Lap Band. Surgery date was 05/25/16 (298lbs.). Prior to surgery I was on several medications for heart failure, as well as Insulin, Metformin, and Glyburide for diabeties. My last dose of insulin was the day prior to surgery. I was hospitalized in the Cardiac Unit for 3 days post surgery (so that I could be monitored for the heart post-surgery). When I was released back home, I took the Metformin and Glyburide for a couple of days, however, my blood sugar was bottoming out. I have not taken any diabetic medication since that time. I still test regularly and average in the 80's. As I have lost weight, my heart medications have been adjusted several times.
I am now a little over 7months out and have lost 120lbs since starting my journey, (104lbs. since surgery). Current weight is 184lbs., which was my original goal. I have updated that goal and am shooting for 175lbs..
