Preop Gastric Sleeve Newbie To Forum. Would Appreciate Any Info!

Hello,

I'm new to the forum. I have been researching the Gastric Sleeve for a few years now. Back in 2008, I was just about to schedule my surgery date and my blood work came back that I had Graves Disease (hyperthyroid) so I had to cancel. Since then, I've had my thyroid ablated with radiation and am on medication to keep my levels in check. I am now in the process of getting things done pre op for the surgery and still have alot to do! Before I was diagnosed with hyperthroidism, my weight was 235. So I was still a big girl. I didn't have the side effect of being skinny as most with this disease do. After I had it ablated, I gained 50 more pounds in 4 months. I was devastated! I now weigh 290 and can't lose anything. I've been overwieght since I was eight but was able to lose 80 to 100 pounds 3 times in my life only to gain it back. I know that I can't get the weight off by myself and decided that no matter how much this costs me, because my insurance WILL NOT pay for it, I am going to do this! I have too. I can't live like this any longer. I know that if I don't do something, I will surely continue to gain weight. I guess I just want any feedback from you guys about what it is like to go through the surgery, the pain, the recovery time and any other information you can give me. Also, any negative thoughts you may have about the surgery. I know I just can't live this way. I have high blood pressure, borderline diabetes, heart pvcs, bad knees, arthritis. I would love to hear your stories and would greatly appreciate any input you can give me concerning the surgery.

Thank you so much! God Bless!