Day One of the Journey!!

I consider today day 1 of my weight loss surgery journey! I went to the information seminar this morning, and did learn a lot! I am also glad to say that I will have the funds available Friday to pay the full "copay" for the Wellness Assessment, and be able to start that process as soon as possible. I have already sent out medical records release forms to both my PCP and Neurologists, and have made an appointment for this Friday for a cardiologist so that I can get medically cleared for surgery (high blood pressure). Now I have to make sure I use my cpap every night for the next 6 weeks!

Of course I also have to do the Dr Supervised diet portion, hopefully it won't be a full 6 months, hopefully three! I already made an appt for next Tuesday for my PCP to handle the supervised diet process! It looks like I am on my way!!!

Replies

  • csmccord
    csmccord Posts: 272 Member
    Good for you! The pre-op nutrition stuff is actually good for you. Helps you get in the routine of tracking/weighing food. It also gives you the time to learn about nutrition and how the surgery will affect your system. I highly suggest you take the time to learn about nutrients, both macro and micro. Learn how certain ones affect your body. Learn stuff like all carbohydrates, or all fats are not made the same!

    I had to do 6 months of monthly classes in which we learned all about these things. It's especially important if you go with the RNY, as it can completely change how your body processes food.
  • ATXHeather
    ATXHeather Posts: 218 Member
    Congrats on starting the process! I have just finished the 2nd month of a 3-month required supervised diet. My surgeon has a nutritionist in his office so I meet with her every month and him every month. At first, I was irritated at the requirement but now I'm glad that it was there. It has given me time to get my head into this and to start making changes. It's also given me time to research as much as I can, things like which protein doesn't contain artificial sweeteners, what will I need after recovery, etc. I am hoping to have surgery at the end of July. Good luck to you as your start your journey!
  • grim_traveller
    grim_traveller Posts: 625 Member
    Congratulations. I hope it goes smoothly.

    If you need to do six months instead of three, it could really help you. The more changes you make and the more weight you lose heading into surgery, the more successful you can be.
  • GraceByMySide
    GraceByMySide Posts: 77 Member
    Congratulations!!! It will fly by!! I was really disappointed at first when I had to wait the 6 months for insurance. "I want what I want and I want it NOW" has always been my attitude, especially around either eating food or weight loss!! I had to unlearn those desires for immediate gratification and take in a more "slow and steady wins the race" mantra. The time was good for me, though. I already knew a ton about nutrition from all the WW and actually being a Diet Center counselor at one point, but putting it into practice and having my head in the game took some time! Whatever happens is all just exactly how it should be!!! Take the time to learn, grow, and love yourself!! For THAT is what will make ALL the difference in the end!!

    :smile:
  • garber6th
    garber6th Posts: 1,890 Member
    That first step is so exciting! Because of my insurance, I had to wait 6 months before they would even start doing the required tests. I was able to attend support groups and classes during that time, and I tried to use that time wisely. It's a really good time to start changing your habits. The more you can make changes before surgery, the easier it will be to adjust after. I ended up having to wait a total of 9 months before I had my surgery. Trust me, I got very frustrated waiting, but in the end it all turned out for the best. Looking back, I see that time as a bonus!
  • jomamacita7
    jomamacita7 Posts: 31 Member
    Congratulations on starting the process! I also have just begun the process leading up to RNY gastric bypass. I had my first appointment with the doctor 3 weeks ago and was told it would be 3 months before they could submit to my insurance for the surgery! I'm very excited as I'm sure you are! Best of luck to you!
  • Vickil57
    Vickil57 Posts: 1,884 Member
    Good Luck. I had to take classes for 6 months and have metal exam. But was worth it. I had the lap band done Nov 2012 and as of this week I have lost 153 pounds. I so wish I would of done it years ago. I have not had an ajustment since May 5th of last year. The best thing I did was join MFP and track my eating.
  • madmags
    madmags Posts: 1,340 Member
    I am also just starting on my journey. I have done the seminar, seen the initial physician and the dietician. I now have to see the psychologist. The dietician said if I lose a little wait before then, they will likely sign off on me to move on to the next step with the group classes.
  • pawoodhull
    pawoodhull Posts: 1,759 Member
    That's great! Congratulations and good luck.
  • grim_traveller
    grim_traveller Posts: 625 Member
    I am also just starting on my journey. I have done the seminar, seen the initial physician and the dietician. I now have to see the psychologist. The dietician said if I lose a little wait before then, they will likely sign off on me to move on to the next step with the group classes.

    Hey madmags, another MA guy here. Thought I'd say hi.