• American Bariatrics is a free online Bariatric Support Group. Register for your free account and get access to all of our great features!

New to the possibility of wls. Looking for info and support

S

Shilah-bug

New Member
Hi there

I have just begun considering wls as an option for myself. I am roughly 265 (BMI 45) and I am tired of the yo-yo dieting that never seems to get me anywhere. I am a single Mom of 4 beautiful kids and it scares me to know that I could leave them early because of my weight. I was diagnosed with Type II Diabetes this past January (8 months ago) and it has shaken me. I think about the consequences of my obesity/diabetes several times a day and I am scared of what it could mean for myself and my children. I have always ruled out wls in the past, but I realize that it may be just what I need to give me a kick start to better health. I am here to look for information, advice and support. I understand this isn't an easy road, a quick fix or an answer to all of my problems. I am very eager to start this process and excited about what it may mean for my life.

Thanks for listening and I look forward to meeting some of you.
 
Hello Shilah,

These are my suggestions. First do as much research as you can regarding the different procedures to consider. Talk to people who have had them done. You will rarely find someone who regrets having WLS (at least that has been my experience). Next, find a Bariatric Center with a good reputation and support. Attend one of the free seminars to find out about what procedures they do and they will research your insurance information for you. Attending the seminar is the very first step and they can tell you where to go from then on. You will find out what their requirements are for pre testing etc. Remember WLS is a tool. Come here often for support and information. There are some wonderful people here who have had a variety of different procedures and experiences who can answer many of your questions. Welcome to the forum. Joy
 
Welcome Bug...I am new here too, had my surgery on July 25, 2012...You've come to the right place...there are lots of support here, that I couldn't find anywhere else. Happy for you to start your new life! Ask away, i'm sure you'll be able to get the support you need and any questions answered! Good Luck!
Jules
 
Shilah-Welcome to the forum. Like Javajoy said, a Bariatric seminar is a good place to start. In addition to learning about all of the surgeries you will have a chance to speak directly to a surgeon. Make sure to take a list of questions. When you attend the seminar ask if you can attend some support group meetings. This will give you the opportunity to speak to people who have had their surgery and are at different stages of post surgical progress.
 
Hi Shila, Welcome. It really sounds like you have done some serious consideration about WLS and looked deeply within youself. I really cant add much to what everyone else hear has said, make sure to talk with your primary care physician and voice your concerns to them so you can try and get a referal, attend the seminars, most are free, and as you gather more information you will start to learn if this is the journey you need to embark on. I had tried everything else and I was at the wits end and my weight kept climbing I was 44 years old at the time w/morbid obesity, high BP, and high cholesterol and I had a rigoris exercise program that was getting nowhere. My life has changed a great deal since I had the surgery with some bumps along the way but if I had it to do all over again I would do still have the WLS, I ma truely healthier and happier today than I have ever been in many many years, however the WLS can not promis health and happiness it lead lead there for me. Let us know what you find out and please come back if you have any more questions, we would all be happy to help. :cool: Tom
 
Thank you everyone for your wisdom and encouraging words. I have made the first step in registering for the informative seminar on August 22nd. The more I start viewing this as a reality for myself, the more excited I am becoming!
 
Shilah-I am so very proud of you. Consider the seminar as the official first step on your journey to a healthier new you :) :) :)
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top