Well, I started the program at Beaumont Hospital yesterday and met with the physician. They did lots of blood work, like 6 vials and an EKG. My BMI IS 44 and I weighed in at a whopping 263. I have appointments scheduled next month with the dietitian, the exercise psysiologist a psychologist for my psych evaluation, and again with the doc for appt #2. My insurance requires 6 months of documentation in a medically supervised WL program. Unless I get my PCP to sign off. Anyway, the ball is rolling so that is the good part. I made the leap so to speak. That evening I went to the hospital's Club Bariatrix support group meeting where one of the 2 surgeons in the program were speaking. He is an accomplished RnY surgeon but has not started doing the Lap Band in his practice yet. He has assisted the other surgeon with the procedure. He is getting started and needs to set up 3 people in one day to get his certification. Anyway, all the people in this meeting were RnY patients and not one Lab Bander. (just my luck) Everyone there looked like they had lost a lot of weight and I really can't say anyone looked "healthy". Everyone had a drawn out saggy, thinning hair look about them. It was really disheartening. I really need to get intouch with some other Lap Banders. As far as the surgeon goes. . . I am signed up with the other surgeon in the practice who has done about 150 LapBands. But I may end up going with the other surgeon because he happens to be my long lost second cousin, and I figure I can call him up and drive him nuts with any problems or questions I have.
Don't get disheartened by the RnY patients who look bad. It is different for us. We lose weight slower and we still get to absorb all of our nutrition! My hair is just now, 3 months out, starting to fall out a litte :( NOT tons, but I didnt think I would have much hair loss. But in all honesty, the way I was eating changed dramatically. My hair stylist said that she can always tell when someone has undergone major surgery bc their hair reveals everything. My coworker had RnY over a year ago and has lost over 100 pounds. She still looks healthy.
ReplyDeleteOoh, kinda scary being the first patient for a new doc. But, they have to start somewhere. I would meet with him and ask lots of questions. Make sure he does the things docs with lots of lapbands under their belt do. Does he stitch around the band to help prevent slipping, etc.
And as for weighing 263! Hey...I've lost 52 pounds and still dont weigh 263 yet. So when you think it's bad, just remember it could be worse :)
You are such a Doll Amy. Thanks for reading. I love your blog and always always smile while reading them. . .and alot of the time LMAO! Kudos to you in your bikini. I love your Moxy and attitude!
ReplyDeleteGood luck! Be patient - making the decision is the hardest part, IMHO! I seriously considerd RNY, 3 years ago with MASSIVE RESISTANCE from my family. 3 years later I am banded with full support, and couldn't be happier. I think things happen, when they happen for a reason! Keep up the good work!
ReplyDeleteThank you Sarah, You are also an inspiration!
ReplyDeleteI just got banded on Wednesday and feel pretty darn great! I've already noticed changes in my eating and am quite impressed with my will power! I figured it would go out the window once I was able to eat again but the commitment is still there!!! You can do this :) Congrats on making the first step, best of luck on the rest of the road. :) I think I'll follow along for the ride!!
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