Question:
I am worried about complications
I had not really worried at all before now, but since surgery is only days away tuesday September 30th. I am getting really worried about the surgery and possiblity of death or complications and not being able to take care of my family and be thier for my kids. Which are the same reasons why I decided to do the surgery. Just need some advise and support. — brnballew (posted on September 26, 2003)
September 25, 2003
Your concerns are common and frankly, we should all be aware of the risks
before going into any surgery. One way to minimize the risks is to know
that you have chosen a competent doctor, have had a good pre-op exam, and
taken steps towards minimizing any risk factors that you might have (i.e.
quit smoking, etc.). Although we know that there can be complications and
even fatalities at times, this website shows thousands of people that have
successfully made it. Personally, I felt that the risk of me not having
the surgery were greater than the risks that having the surgery posed. I
am now almost 8 months out and haven't had to take diabetes medication
since my surgery. My energy, stamina for life and confidence have all
increased 10-fold and there is no doubt in my mind that I've done the right
thing. I'm sure that you'll be fine and writing the same type of comments
to other pre-ops in a few months. Good luck and my prayers are with you
for a safe and speedy recovery!
— Judy R.
September 25, 2003
Your worries are normal. WLS is a big step!! Just to ease your mind - the
death ratio is only about 1%. Complications can happen with any surgery
but you will be fine if you follow what your doctor tells you. Healthy
patients usually have very few if any. Just take a deep breath and know you
are doing the right thing. In the long run you will be healthier than you
have ever been!! I am 2/12 months postop, down 49lbs, and feel better
everyday! Keep you eye on the prize!! My prayers are with you. May God
be with you and your family at this exciting time!
— laurab
September 25, 2003
Hi Brenda, I was the same way. I even updated my will. Hang in there!!
Remember to walk after surgery. If the nurses are too busy, page them and
remind them you need to walk. Remember that the majority of us go through
this journey safely and make it to the losing side. My best wishes for you
-
— M B.
September 26, 2003
I was so nervous and scared that I was crying on the way to the operating
room! The nurses were so kind, and gave me hugs and reassured me. I was
actually more nervous and scared about not being around for my 1 and 1/2
year old son than for myself!
I think another thing that should be mentioned here is that it is also
completely normal after the surgery to feel like, "What did I do to
myself?" Not everyone does, but for some reason, I had major regret
for about 4 days after the surgery. Now, of course, it is the best thing
that I could have ever done for myself - I am so much more happy and
healthy. But don't feel abnormal if you start asking yourself, "Why
did I do this?" because you will know very soon why you did it - to
be healthy.
— raye
September 26, 2003
As someone who has experienced some complications....I think that it is
important to realize that there is a chance of having complications even if
it is a small one.Before surgery I got to the point that I wanted and
needed the surgery so bad that I was willing to risk it, even if was to get
a complication.I still don't regret having the surgery and I would do it
again in a second. =)
— jennifer A.
September 26, 2003
What would I do IF I weren't afraid? That is what I asked myself any time
stress/emotions take over. The answer is always have the surgery. Being
nervous is pretty normal, but focus on the questions, your desire to be
healthy, your desire to be in control. Best wishes for a speedy recovery.
— [Deactivated Member]
September 26, 2003
I think we all have fear, I was amazed though that on the morning of
surgery, I was so at peace, I had no fear, I had done my research and knew
that it had to be done. For me, I knew that I mentally (and physically)
could not go through one more DIET and fail. The fear of failure does
still loom at the back of my head, but the difference this time is that I
listen to my body now. This tool has taught me that NOTHING is off limits,
it is all a choice. I can choose to drink milk or water. I feel much
better if I avoid the milk and drink my water, so I drink the water, BUT I
always have that choice. Don't limit anything, just figure out new ways to
enjoy your old favorites.
The day I made the decision to have this surgery, I decided then and there
that this is for a lifetime, and of course there are some complications
that can happen, but I reasoned that with the fact that if I waited, then
the odds of complications arising would only increase. Take care of you,
mentally prepare for the surgery, and prepare your family for the days that
you will just be to tired to do much. Things will change for a while, but
if you all work together, it should be a smooth transition.
None of us know when it will be our time, and I plan on enjoying every
minute I can, you may want to convey your concerns to your spouse, just so
you can verbally talk about it. My focus was that I was still somewhat
healthy, (I had sleep apnea and a few minor problems) so it was best to
take care of it sooner than later.
I will keep you in my prayers.
— Dana B.
September 26, 2003
Everyone has fears, but I think jennifer M. is right on the money about
complications. It is possible to have major ones, I've known people who've
had them. You need to be at the place where you can say that even if you
end up with complications, you've still made the right decision.
— mom2jtx3
September 26, 2003
It is funny because I wasn't worried at all until I got a surgery date. Now
I find myself with a sick tummy and headaches from worring so much. I am
only 23 and I am no where near ready to die. I guess what makes it so hard
for me is that I know that I wont die if I don't have the surgery...I mean
sure I wont live as long as I could but I have no MAJOR health issues. The
only thing that actually makes me feel better is this website hearing
peoples stories and how wonderful thier lives are now. I don't want to live
forever but I do want to enjoy what life I have. I hope this makes
sense...it does to me. Good Luck and God be with you for a speedy recovery.
Think POSITIVE and nothing can stop US!!!
— Sabrina Plunkett
September 27, 2003
Hi, I am having same feelings and lots of thoughts, I also am having WLS
on sept. 30.... I have made myself a wreck, yo until this past few days I
was ready and calm, now all I do is scratch, I have to force myself not to
scratch my stomach mostly, just rub lotion on it constantly. The palms of
my hands are bad too. But I have studyed and read and asked and listened, I
figure it will hit me hardest when entering the operating room, but I am
trying hard to get back on focus, every thing we do is a risk, and most of
them are well worth it afterwards, WLS is on top of that list for all of
us. Best of luck and a speedy recovery for us all. Patricia 9-30-03
314/290? still hopeful!!
— pateblkbrn
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