OWLS trip #1

May 18, 2015

I completed my supervised eating and exercise program in March, but did not get to see my surgeon until yesterday, May 19th. In that time I stayed within 2 lbs of my prior total. I also need to meet with the bariatric endocrinologist, but that's not until mid-July.

I've been seeing a counselor for about 6 weeks, specific to weight and eating issues. I'm slowly making positive changes and getting to some of the sources of my incorrect beliefs about myself. She said that she sees post-surgical patients, but I was the 1st to be proactive and get a head start. I sure hope that my insurance continues to pay for her!

I'm recovering today after my nightmare 1st surgeon meeting. No, I wasn't upset so much about seeing Dr. Patterson - more about the day's logistics.

There was a SNAFU on mailing me the pre-appointment paperwork. They arrived in the mail at noon and my appointment was an hour away at 2:45. Eeek!

So I got on the road later than I wanted to. I like to be at least 1/2 hour early for appointments up in Portland due to the drive. I'd taken my Lasix at 9 am, so it should have been out of my system, but 1/2 up, I felt I should stop at the rest stop - medium urge. But the traffic was so heavy that I didn't see the 1st sign due to the number of trucks in the right lane. By the time I saw sign 2, I couldn't get over to the exit lane. OK, I should be able to make it. I get there, park, then head for the nearest potty. There was a line! Ack! I had an accident. I was mortified. At least I was standing up at the time and my pee pad got most of it, but the undies were also damp. And I'm almost late!

By the time I get to the office, I'm a blubbering mess (I am a stress crier). Nightmare.

But things changed. A sweet lady in the waiting room came over and hugged me. She was 3 weeks post-op. Then I saw a flash of a doggy in the hall behind the receptionist. Yes, my doc has a therapy dog in the office. A small sweet mini dox, long haired - goes by "Biscuit". She helped me so much.

Dr. P. agrees that the sleeve is best for me. I really liked her and am very glad about my choice.

I finished at 4 pm. I had planned to see friends for dinner up in the big city, but I just wanted to go home. I "gave myself permission" to cancel and we will try again on another trip.

Came home and fell asleep in the recliner, emotionally exhausted.

It's HARD, but I'm doing it!

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