faybert

Obesity & Me

Describe your behavioral and emotional battle with weight control before learning about bariatric surgery.

I have tried every diet that came my way. I've done Physician's Weight Loss, weight watchers, carb.gram counting, fat gram counting, high protein, etc. The list is endless. I am weary of trying when it just doesn't work for me. I can loose a few pounds, maybe keep it off for a few weeks, then it all goes back on plus 10 or 15 more. I want to feel good again!!!

What was (is) the worst thing about being overweight?

I hate having to buy clothes. It is so hard to find things that fit at my size. Not only am I obese, but I am also vertically challenged, otherwise known as short. My oldest son got married last June. When the wedding pictures were developed, I really got a good look at how big I am. I hate those pictures.

If you have had weight loss surgery already, what things do you most enjoy doing now that you weren't able to do before?

I can ride amusement park rides with my 11 year old son without having to worry about if I will fit. I can wear my wedding rings, before surgery I couldn't get them on. I can walk up a flight or 2 or 3 of stairs and not be out of breath. I can wear some of my sisters clothing, I have never been able to do that!

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

I decided to go for the surgery when I was diagnosed as Insulin resistant. I don't want my health to keep getting worse and kill me a young age. I want to be here for a long time with my family. I want to be a Grandma. I want to feel better and look better.

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

My surgeon usually does the open RNY procedure. He will change to one of the other procedures only if he is unbale to complete a RNY due to anatomy problems.

How did your employer/supervisor react to your decision? What did you tell him/her? How long were you out of work?

My supervisor has been very supportive of my decision. I am a nurse and work in the surgery department, so I have a supervisor that is well informed about the surgery. My employer is also supportive due to the fact this surgery will make me healthier and reduce the risk of future health problems.

What was your stay in the hospital like? How long where you there? What things are most important to bring?

I was in the hospital 3 nights after my surgery. I spent the first night in ICU because of my sleep apnea. It was the worst night. It was too noisy to get any rest. When I was moved up to the surgical floor, it was much quieter. The most important things I took to the hospital were my personal toiletries, shampoo,toothpaste,etc.

Did you have any complications from the surgery? If so, how did you deal with them?

I had no complications.

What aftercare support group/program do you have? How helpful/important is this?

I have no local group. I depend on the members of the AMOS site for support.
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