I have been on this journey since Sept.2012 when I first discussed the idea of WLS with my doctor. She referred me to one of the best surgeon. He has been great and I was really ready to do this. So I thought. I started dropping weight. I was feeling so amazing. Then it happen, I got my approval letter in the mail and surgery date. March 1, my life would change. I was excited. As the date started getting closer and closer I found myself becoming more and more afraid. Judgement of friends and family did not make the situation easier.

The day of the surgery I got to the hospital and before I knew it I was having a panick attack. The surgeon came and tried to calm me down but it didnt happen. He told me it's ok we will reschedule. Which is what I did but everyday from THAT date I have beating myself up for not being able to get myself together long enough to do it.

Now here I am 2 weeks away from my new surgery date and I have no thoughts. More so shame and I dont understand why.

Fear of surgery or fear you won't be able to stuff your face with food anymore?

Food addiction is real and can be overwhelming.

tmf

surgery.....i've had issue in surgery before.

(((Gentle hugs to you)))

I understand. I had a full on panic attack the night before my surgery and even had DH take me to the ER to be sure I didn't have a heart attack.

They did an EKG and other tests and said no heart attack. I chose to go ahead and do the surgery in the morning and not to sound sickeningly sweet but seriously- it was the best thing I ever did for my health and I'm SO grateful I did it.

265 -> 175 pounds; size 22/24 to size 12/14

I've had many times that I cursed my band along the way when I (foolishly) "tested" it and pushed limits- hey, I'm human. I didn't become morbidly obese by being sensible and perfect, right? But over time, I learned what the band would allow and not allow and now I can honestly say that it's EASY for me to maintain my weight loss and I'm MUCH healthier now than when I was morbidly obese.

Good luck hun. It IS scary to consider the risks of surgery and a lifelong change. But...what are the risks if you DON'T do the surgery?

It's your choice. Only you can decide what's best for you, what you want and what you're willing to do to get what you want.

(((One more gentle hug)))

Good luck.

_{thanks.....I appreciate the encouragement.}

Having surgery is scary. I was scared. I have an anxiety disorder. Being that I do have an axiety disorder, I do take Paxil to help me. I was on Paxil when I had surgery, yet I was still scared. I managed to talk myself out of a panic attack.

I had studied the surgery, I had researched my doctor and knew my medical team was top notch. I ask for some "i don't care" drugs a little early as well as requesting to be the first patient on the line up for the day. Next thing I knew it was over and I was heading home.

Right after surgery I had a tough time for about an hour, but after that I felt pretty good.

So take a deep breath. Ask for meds if you need to. The doctor can give you some adivan to take the night before and then one the morning of to help keep you calm until they start your IV.

Don't beat yourself up. Fear is natural and normal. If this is really what you want, admit you were scared, ask for help and get 'er done!!

Good Luck!

I think the ladies gave you great advise. I have them as well, but I will say I did not for this. I KNEW in my heart it was for me. To save my life, save me from myself.

That was 4 yrs ago!! Best thing I ever did for me! For my family.

The surgery was easy. Recover was easy. Fills--I worried about--EASY!

Do whatever you need to do to calm yourself. Music, positive self talk, meds if need be. Berating yourself will do no good as we have all learned being heavy, we berate...we eat...then start that cycle all over. This is a new begining, a new world, a new way of thinking. A positive attitude is a must I think. Hey! A Patti LaBelle song! ha ha.

When you are on your way to your new habits--follow the rules. It is easy when you do that. I am not saying it is perfect, but I would do it over and over again! This tool is amazing! Best of Wishes!

WOW!!! I am no where near a surgery date but am as nervous as a virgin at a prison rodeo (good ol Golden Girls quote) about my first initial consult this week but you guys have helped calm my silly little case of nerves and fears..I figure I will need it once things get closer and this becomes a reality.

You have 2 weeks so have a few sit downs with the therapist who you have spoken to pre-op. ( I had unlimited access to mine)

Talk it out, talk it out, talk it out speak of exactly what scares you -- no matter what it is.

Keep digging and see what comes out.

Start a journal and write about all your fears.

Anxiety doesn't go away by itself.

Also see if your surgeon is willing to give you very mild sedative for the day before and the day of surgery.

I'd love to sit here and blow smoke and say everything is alright and you're making all the right decisions.

The truth is I don't know you or your situation so I can't make that call, only you can.

Once you made the call then I can support you all the way either way but for now you have to get to the source.

best of luck and keep us posted.