My Bariatric Surgery Journey :: How I Decided It Was the Right Decision For Me
Confession: when I first heard about weight loss surgery, I was not impressed. I was the person who thought it was an easy way out and not the best option for me. Before having my daughter, I was fully focused on my weight loss journey. I was eating all the right things, and I worked out every day, sometimes even twice a day. Just when I was getting it all together, I found out I was pregnant. I still managed to keep up with the workouts and eating right … then l I had a miscarriage scare. Thankfully, my daughter is here with me, completely healthy and very feisty. However, during that time, my doctor placed me on light bed rest. After giving birth, I had postpartum depression and gained back most of my weight, plus more.
I’ve literally tried it all
I thought I could manage my weight loss on my own, but it’s hard, especially when it feels as though you really don’t have the support of many people. I tried going back to Weight Watchers, but to be honest, the drive was far, and while they have an online community, I felt for me, it would be better to be in the physical presence of others. I have an amazing gym membership at Iron Tribe, but my eating habits get the best of me. And what’s the point of doing these intense workouts if I’m not doing what I’m supposed to do and fueling my body like I should? I went to my doctor, who prescribed me the weight loss shots, which I tried for a few months, but my HSA account was telling me to abort that mission.
Finally, the last straw
One day, a mom in a local Facebook group that I’m in asked if we had any questions about bariatrics. I asked a few questions, and the shameful feeling I had before was gone. I also read a relatable experience of another mom who went through the process. She had tried everything, and this was also her last resort. I also read an article written by the surgeon herself which helped ease some of my fears. So, I made the appointment.
When I went into the office, everyone was very friendly. Dr. Levy asked all the questions, and to be honest, she didn’t really stress much about me having the surgery. She started me on a pill that will help curb my appetite, and I’ve been on it for a few months now. I’m doing pretty well, too. We started with this until we could figure out if my insurance will pay for me to have the surgery. But in the meantime, she did offer me a plan that could help me pay if it turns out my insurance doesn’t cover it, which tells me that they have plenty of options.
Currently, I’m in the beginning stages of getting the surgery. I’m taking the classes, while still taking the pill, and doing my follow-up appointments until we set the actual date.
I have mixed emotions on this journey, but the main feeling excitement. I’m learning a lot, and I can’t wait to see what the outcome will be. I am looking forward to sharing the rest as I go along this ride.
I had gastric bypass at 25, I’m 38 now and it’s been the hardest time of my life. I’ve lost almost all my teeth, I struggle to gain a single pound. I have a medical background and followed everything to a T. I had the full roux en y. I’ve had intussiception twice my blood pressure is so low they don’t feel comfortable putting me under to even attempt reversal. I hope you opt for the sleeve or something less drastic. It’s been and continues to be a battle.