New Friends, New Information and New Coping

So the last time I wrote I was a bit stressed out. I had learned more about the Duodenal Switch versus the Roux-En-Y surgeries and what I had learned had swayed me and led me to believe I was going in the wrong direction. Since then, I've discovered that my original decision is the best choice for me. Between posting on the OH forums and talking to both people who have had it and a wonderful new person I met at the support group, I've decided I am fine with where I'm going with what I've decided.

For once, I cannot believe it, I'm not fat enough!

I had been frightened I wouldn't be capable of following the diet that is required with the RNY surgery. With the DS surgery I would be able to eat what I want and not worry too much about things other than stinky bowel movements. But since I've looked into it, I've discovered that this surgery is not covered by OHIP because of the high risk of it. The chances of negative side effects from this surgery are a lot higher than the RNY and it's a much more complicated surgery. Apparently OHIP will no longer cover it because (visit www.dsfacts.com and see the page on the ontario folks) of the high risks involved and the need for many follow ups in comparison to the RNY. I've since also learned that although OHIP will not cover this, they've since amended it that they will cover people with a BMI of 60 or above. For once, I cannot believe it, I'm not fat enough!

So back on track I am and feeling good. Especially since yesterday was my first support group with various people who have had the surgery or are about to. I met some fantastic people and feel extremely relieved and happy that I decided to move forward with this. They were incredibly encouraging and answered a lot of my questions for me. I look forward to learning more about their experiences and their lives now. It's opened up so many different forms of support for me. There are several groups in the area that I can and will attend as I can and I look forward to learning so much more.

To pick me up if I fall down or encourage me ...

Just knowing there are so many wonderful people to pick me up if I fall down or encourage me when I may or may not have have some down times. I'm actually really excited now and I truly wish work wasn't interfering in this. I'm having to postpone things so much further because of the times of the year. I have to accept this and most likely I couldn't live with myself if I had to let my boss down. So I must be patient and in the meantime I will learn as much as I can.

I'm not going to even worry about it any longer.

I feel good today. More relaxed. Since I was at the group session yesterday I feel so much more calmer. The whole DS surgery threw me into a bit of a panic and since I don't have a hope in hell of being covered for it nor to be able to save $18, 000.00 to save for it (I had called a Surgeon in Pennsylvania for more information.) I'm not going to even worry about it any longer.

It would mean a whole new world for me.

It's a whole new world out there for me now and while I'm waiting for my new life to start I'm going to attempt to start a few of the changes I'll need to do after the surgery. One person suggested that possibly within a year after I may weigh 150lbs??!?!?! That simply flabbergasts me. I cannot see that at all but perhaps it is possible. It would mean a whole new world for me. There are so many things I want to do but cannot because my weight and the pain brought on from it stops me.

I was a bit concerned about not hearing from OHIP yet on my application for out of country surgery but apparently some people have been approved with no comorbities other than a high BMI. Since mine is fairly high, 48, then I'm hoping that along with the several comorbities I do have that they will approve. It's definitely the first hurtle and hopefully I will hear something soon. Then I can really get enthused.

Thanks to everyone for following my steps so far. See you soon!