Let the Testing Begin!

So a little over 2 weeks ago, I had my initial consultation with the surgeon. I found out that the procedure I really wanted done, the Sleeve Gastrectomy, is not an option for me because my insurance doesn't cover that procedure yet. So, I have decided to go for the Gastric Bypass. Ten days ago, I went for my first set of tests - the upper GI scan, chest x-rays, EKG, and bloodwork. It all went fine, but that barium stuff they make you swallow for the GI scan is nasty. The taste isn't horrible, but it is so chalky and thick - it reminds me of a really thick milkshake but it doesn't taste as good. :) I've already had my follow-up with the Gastroenterologist and he confirmed that my upper GI scan came back completely normal and that he is going to approve me for surgery, no additional testing needed for GI. There was a chance I might need an endoscopy, but I'm happy that I don't! That hurdle is clear, so now the next appointment is on Wednesday for my nutrition assessment. The ball is rolling and I'm starting to get more nervous with every passing appointment. Don't get me wrong, I am not having second thoughts. It's just the thought of going through something so major, especially for someone who has only had 1 surgery in my entire life and it was outpatient! Plus, a 14-year old body recovers a lot faster than a 36-year old body. I know it will change my life for the better, though, and there are so many things I want to do again that have become more difficult as the weight has piled on. I have so much to look forward to!

The Consultation

I received the call from the surgeon's office today and have scheduled my initial consultation for April 7th. I'm excited and nervous all at the same time. It is a 2-hour appointment...wow!! I don't remember spending 2 hours in a doctor's office unless it was urgent care or the emergency room! I'm glad to know that the surgeon is going to take his time with the initial consultation, though. Surgery is such a serious step to take and I'm relieved to know that the doctor gives the appointments the time and consideration it deserves. At this appointment we will discuss what procedure I'm interested in and all of the options, as well as begin to set up my appointments for pre-op assessments and tests. The insurance company will approve me for surgery only after all of my pre-op assessments and tests have come back and those doctors have approved me for the surgery. With any luck, maybe I will have these done by the end of May!

And So it Begins: The First Step

Being overweight sucks. I have had the unfortunate "luck" to be overweight since my pre-teen years. I've been on many diets and exercise programs and have managed to lose some weight here and there, but it always found it's way back and then some. I know there are many people out there who can relate to my story and my struggles.

So yesterday I took the first step in what I hope will be a permanent, positive change with my weight struggles. I attended an information session on Bariatric Surgery, which is the first step in a road to surgery and the weight loss beyond. I still need the insurance company to approve me for the procedure, but I am not too worried about that. I am more nervous about being in the hospital for a couple of days since I have never had to stay in a hospital overnight my entire life!

The next step is gathering my medical records from the last couple of years and scheduling the initial consultation with the surgeon's office. At that point, I will decide with my surgeon which procedure will benefit me the most and pursue that one and move on to the next phase of my life. I will chronicle each step in the process on this blog, maybe it will help someone else who is going through something similar.

In the meantime, let us not forget Philippians 4:13: "I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me" and know that regardless of our struggle - weight or otherwise - Christ Jesus is our ultimate strength!