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Wednesday, April 28, 2010

Within Six Weeks!!!

I had my appointment with my surgeon Dr. Minkin on Wednesday. My husband went along with me which was very helpful for him. He has been very supportive since I told him about my decision and I think meeting with the doctor helped to assure him that this is a low risk procedure. It helped to reassure me too. All of your comments helped too - thanks!

Dr. Minkin was generous with his time and spoke with confidence. We talked about the risk of anesthesia and just surgery in general. Dr. Minkin performs the most lap band procedures in St. Louis and that is reassuring to me. I have my prescription for the bulk of the pre-op testing (minus the blood tests) and I'm registered to take the nutrition class that his office puts on next week!

I'm really looking forward to the nutrition class. Dr. Minkin only requires a 3 day pre-op diet. Why do pre-op diets vary so much? Don't get me wrong, I'd like to minimize my intake of protein shakes but I also want to make sure I'm best prepared for surgery. And, loosing a bit of weight to jump start things wouldn't be bad either. I've tried to google this but haven't found a good explanation.

And, speaking of diets... My last "six month diet" appointment is next Friday and my six months will officially be up on May 11. I can't believe it's finally here.

I didn't realize my insurance would require a two year weight history and I was a bit worried that that would throw a wrench into the approval. I got it together and fortunately (or unfortunately) my BMI has been over 40 for the past two years. I knew I have been gaining weight at a pretty good clip for a while since I have essentially thrown any restraint out the window but it's something else to see the numbers in print.

During my "six month diet", I have gained 16.4 pounds. I hope that the insurance company doesn't deny based on that. They only specify a diet, not loosing weight. Maybe I should have had a better attitude about the "diet" but I really think it's just a crock. Pouring salt in the wound if you will. I have been on (unsuccessful) diets for more than 20 years. My bad attitude is definitely reflected in the numbers. I think a better term for me might be a "six month bender".

I've had such little hope about losing weight for so long that I really tossed all consideration about what to eat (or rather what not to) out the window some time ago. I'm actually looking forward to making choices again. I want to make good choices and I'm so happy that I'll have a tool to help me.

I'm beyond thrilled that I'm getting close. My daughter's birthday is June 12 so I'm guessing that I'll have the surgery after that. YIPPPPPEEEE!!!!

13 comments:

  1. Good luck Susan... honestly, it is the best decision I ever made! My daughter was 4 1/2 when I had my surgery, and it's been the best thing ever for the whole family! You sound very similar to me (age-wise, family, etc...) - holler if I can answer any questions!!!

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  2. Hello! I just found your blog. Hang in there with all the hoops they make you jump through before surgery. Totally worth it!

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  3. Hello Susan. Good luck to you. I'm 20 months out from banding and am at my goal. Please feel free to visit my blog. The most important piece of advice I can offer is to caution you to exercise patience. It took me 5 months to get my band to a level of restriction where I was losing weight at a good clip and it was hard to not become frustrated. And journaling - I think journaling your food intake, exercise, and emotions is important to your success. Take before photos and measurements, then take photos and measurements during your journey - you will be astounded. Please feel free to ask me any questions; I would love to help you.

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  4. Hello...Sarah send me. I have never regretted my band and am down nearly 44 lbs in 4.5 mths...you won't regret it

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  5. Hey Sarah sent me too! You are so close!

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  6. My 6 months ends in June. I can't wait. Hopefully our surgeries won't be too far apart.

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  7. I just started bloging yesterday, great place to be, good luck!

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  8. Hi Susan-

    I wish you lots of luck an patience, my six months will be up October 14. I look forward to reading more about your journey. Take Care.

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  9. Hi, Susan! Congratulations on nearing your surgery date! I had a 3 day clear liquids (plus shakes) pre-op diet too. I was really worried about doing it, but it turned out to be fine. One thing that really helped me was carrying bouillion cubes so that I could have something savory if I had to be around other people who were eating. Looking forward to reading about all of your progress!

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  10. Hi Susan!! I just found your blog and will be Following you too!! I will read your blog today. Please ask any questions you need, and at least one of us will answer!!

    Debi: http://hawaiiboundbandster.blogspot.com/

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  11. Hi! Just found your blog. My 6 month diet ends on My 20th and I have felt the same way about it. I'll be keeping my fingers crossed for a speedy approval for you.

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  12. Susan ~ I answered your comment on my blog, hope you'll go back and read it. Feel free to email me. I'm excited for you!! ...off to read the rest of your blog posts.... Julie

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  13. Thank you so much for following my blog! I truly appreciate it! I invite you to participate and comment and let me know what you need to hear! The one thing that I want you to know is that I do not join blogs as a follower! Why? Because I am extremely dysfunctional! I do read all of my followers' blogs as often as I can! However, because I don't want to hurt anyone's feeling if I don't join their blogs, I bookmark you so I can peek into your life! ! But, I often don't have time to comment since I read so many of them! Plus, I am a very chatty girl! I would never get to work or get any work done if I did! Please know that I am with you on your journey...even if I am a silent traveler!!
    Onward!
    Judi

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