After years of struggling with my weight I have made the very difficult decision of going through bariatric surgery. This was not an easy decision for me, I don't see it as an easy way out for a lazy life style. There are so many contributing factors to my weight problems. No matter the judgment I may have for taking this weight loss option, it was my decision. I need help, in the right direction.
If you are a drug addict or an alcoholic your addictions can almost be hidden. I can't tell you how many times I hear the phrase "functional alcoholic". When you are obese, its not something that can hide judgment. No I am not addicted to food, I have no problem modifying my diet. Even was a pescatarianfor most of the summer with my daughter (and have seriously considered going back to being one).
I know surgery is not a "quick fix" I know my lifestyle will change drastically. OK I am ready for that. I NEED that change. This is just the huge push in the right direction. I have lived with my weight issues for too long. I am very thankful to have very supportive friends and family to proved me the emotional support I need while I go through this change in my life.
I researched the options of sleeve gastrectomy, biliopancreatic diversion (gastro-bypass) and gastric banding.
Taking in the considerations of:
- My heart condition
- Being borderline diabetic
- Varicose veins
- Slight hypertension
- Recovery time
- Family obligations
- Work obligations
I also know/met various people who have gone through each of these procedures. The final decision came down to gastric banding. With it being a reversible procedure and the shorter recovery time, plus having a heart condition makes the other two procedures too dangerous, gastric banding was truly the only option.
The process of going through with this surgery started in early June. There were a number of requirements I had to fulfil for Tricare, and I was almost completed with them when I enrolled into my employer's insurance as of Oct 1. So I played the waiting game for approval. As of today I have been approved for surgery: December 6th.
I will post more as details of the surgery as they arise.
