Judith L. Barrett Crawford

I recently had VSG on August 1st. Preparation took 9 months due to insurance requirements. I had some issues due to BMI requirements- I did not quite meet requirements and my DJD evidently is not considered a comorbidity. I have had the diagnosis of Degenerative Joint Disease for several years. I am soon to be 55yo. I am Registered Nurse. I have a 13yo autistic son and I need to be able to continue to work as a nurse for 15 more years at least. Having the VSG is part of my plan to maintain my mobility and improve my overall health. Other than Gastric reflux, past stomach ulcer and high cholesterol I am otherwise fairly healthy. My knee discomfort has been hindering my activities this last year especially. Orthopedic Dr originally thought cortisone shots would work. After those failed to improve my mobility they thought that maybe the worst case scenario was a scope an repair of meniscus. A few days before my VSG surgery I had an MRI that showed the only option was a total knee replacement. I am scheduled for a total knee replacement Sept 2nd. I have had people question why so close together. I have to get them done close together due to insurance (deductibles paid, required time off before disability starts). Also I work full time and while I am on great terms with my job no one can be off work indefinitely. FMLA only guarantees 12weeks time off a year. If I do not have the surgery now I will have to wait 12 months. I do not believe I will be able to walk in 12 months. I have to wear a brace now as it is. That is frowned upon as a nurse. Also disability can deny coverage for preexisting problems. So that is my story. What I want to know is has anyone else ever had surgery this close to a gastric sleeve. I am working like crazy to get my nutrients in, stay flexible and mobile. Due to post op limitations there is no way to get my calories in yet. I take my Vitamins, Calcium, and Protein shakes. I will not be able to take Nsaids or steroids after knee surgery. Any ideas or suggestions to help with this process woild be greatly appreciated.Thank you.