Hi Everyone,

I'm Fiona and I live in Europe. I'm from the U.S. but relocated years ago after meeting my husband while on vacation. I'm 44 and, well, fat. I started seriously looking into having wls early this year, then with referrals and waiting to hear from insurance, I'm looking at having the procedure before the end of the year. I'm crazy-nervous, but not exactly about the surgery itself--more about life-after-surgery. A few years ago, my gall bladder had to be removed and because it was so deteriorated, it had to be done via open surgery. So, I'm thinking that after all of that, simply removing part of my stomach should be like a piece of cake--or sugar free pie--or something. Anyways, I'm now sporting a rather large scar and a hernia on top.

I'm currently going through the 'program' for a few more months to get ready for the procedure. It's a little difficult for me because of the language difference. I speak conversational Dutch, but medical terms and the likes, I get a bit lost. Because most of this is done in a group setting with native Dutch speakers, the option for all English isn't available. My confusion isn't so bad that I gain nothing from the conversations, but at times, I have to ask for a translation of certain words. When one-on-one, the providers speak English, so that's not an issue.

I was originally referred for and they recommended the gastric bypass, but because of my high BMI (and I think the previous scar tissue and hernia had something to do with it too), the surgeon has agreed with me on having the sleeve instead. Thank goodness, because the bypass scares the crap out of me! I'm not diss-ing that procedure--it's worked for many people and some whom I know in real-life. However, I also know some whom have had GB and things haven't gone so well. I know no one personally who has had the sleeve, so the experiences discussed here and on other sites mean a great deal to me.

I've been poking around the forum for a few months. There's so much info, questions and answers. Please know that you efforts to help out those considering the procedure(s) and continued input is much appreciated.

Take care,

F.

Hi Fiona! I am doing this abroad too and can understand your struggles. It is a totally different process and then you add the language component. I speak Spanish, but still like all my medical stuff in English! LOL. Wishing you luck!

Thank you, SleevenChica! Best of luck to you too!

I did mine in the Middle East. I completely understand the language barrier!

Good luck to you!

Thanks, FemmeFatale!

Looking at your profile (stats), looks like it worked out great for you! Congrats on your success!