Why did you choose the sleeve?

[Ms Lady in NC 1]

I chose the sleeve because I wanted to lose the weight and keep it off with the aid of something permanent like surgery. I really loved the idea of the DS but not the risks it held and hated the RNY's dumping syndrome, and the slippage of a lapband really made me see that the safest route for me was the sleeve. I spent 2 yrs researching and watching patients before I decided for sure and then made the arrangements. I told my coordinator I was worried that it would not work but she told me it was unlikely but if it didn't the DS could be done later and I took a chance.

Being self employed, I have to pay for insurance and when the major companies turned me down I knew it was time to do something. I had high blood pressure and began to have serious heart problems that put me on nitroglycerin pills. But within the 2 wk pre-op diet, my bp was mormal and the pain around my chest had gone away. I almost changed my mind and didn't go through with it but knew the chances of me losing over 100 lbs and keeping it off was highly unlikely so i got on the plane after I said a prayer.

Almost 2 months later and 50+ total pounds lighter I look back and wonder again if it was worth going so drastic? I have days that I say yea and no but everyday I live w/o taking a pill for bp or heart problems answers the question for me. A life change really did occur with me doing it and if I accomplish my goal with the sleeve or not, I at least began my journey.

Do I love my sleeve? I don't fall in love easy but I respect it and am learning to get along with it because we have each other for life!