Tuesday, December 22, 2009

Why?

After scouring the Internet for information from those who have gone before me, I found that many banders early on posted some outcomes they hoped from the surgery, some silly some serious. My list could easily turn into many pages, so I'll spare you the ones that are top of mind today.

From this procedure I would like to:
• Clear up my recent hypertension diagnosis
• Not wonder when the diabetes diagnosis will come (or other weight related problems)
• Increase the likelihood of getting pregnant and having a healthy pregnancy
• Undertake big fitness challenges- including hiking, biking, & running
• Not be embarrassed to ride on public transportation, airplanes, etc.
• Be able to cross my legs easily
• Wear a skirt without chaffing
• Not feel like I’m out of place in my field of work
• Shop in a normal sized clothing section
• Not wonder if a chair will break when I sit on it (beach chairs especially!)
• Not have to investigate weight limits on equipment
• Not be embarrassed to see friends and family because I'm ashamed of my weight

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

Initial consult

My husband and I went for our initial surgery consult today, meet with the program director, surgeon, and scheduling coordinator. Reviewed symptoms and history, details of the surgery and next steps. As it turns out we may be very lucky for the fact that our stint with H.M.R. may count as our insurance mandated diet run-in. If this is the case this fast tracks us to the surgery, otherwise it could take an additional 3-6 months. Thanks H.M.R.!

When separately asked if we need additional time to think it over we both declined- we are ready to move forward! A possible range for my weight loss could put me at 181-203 pounds, last time that happened was back when I did the B.W.H. program, many years ago. I remember that weight fondly. We both had to sign next to today’s weight as a promise not to gain any more before the surgery- a way to avoid the last supper syndrome.

We had a good laugh over how we each rated our marriage on a scale of 1-5 (5 being best), my lovely husband rated it a 5 and I a 4, we had a good laugh over our difference.