New - sleeve with autoimmune disorders

[new.life.2014 17]

I've been a silent stalker in this site on and off for about a year. I started seriously considering WLS for about a couple of years but just recently made the decision that it's the right thing for me. I went into this process thinking that I would only consider the lap band but after the info session and consult with my surgeon I've decided that the sleeve is the best option for me. I have my psych eval and first appointment with the nutritionist on March 5.

I'm a single mom to a beautiful 3 year old daughter and also have multiple sclerosis, on addition to being morbidly obese. I'm starting this journey for myself, but also my daughter. I need to be the positive influence in her life that she deserves.

I find these forums so helpful and insightful. I have learned that I'm not alone in my fears that ending my relationship with food and that it's possible but takes hard work. I'm ready for this and know I will do it.

Just wondering - anyone else going thru this with MS or other autoimmune diseases? Did it affect you?

Looking forward to making new friends and finding support on my journey, those with or without autoimmune issues.

[1Day1Life4Now 882]

Hi there and congratulations on your decision. It is a life changing decision and if you what you want is to change your life....you're gonna do it. I have Rheumatoid Arthritis and though I am only 2 weeks post surgery, my joints can definitely tell the difference. I'm still recovering but I am so happy to have done this. The weight is coming off much quicker than any other diet I have ever been on and I feel really good. Good luck and if there is anything I can help you with I am glad to help.

Janet

[new.life.2014 17]

Janet - thanks so much for your support. Wonderful news that you are already feeling better. Isn't it exciting to think how great we will feel in 6 months? And even better in a year!

[naenaern777 345]

Hello

I have lupus and addisons and I got the band on July 1, 2013. The first 3 weeks post op were bad for me but after that it has been smooth sailing. I actually haven't been in the hospital one time for a flare since my surgery. I was able to stop some of my meds as well. I gained all of my weight in 2009 from dreaded prednisone which I will have to take forever. I'm down over 50lbs and can even exercise a little which I couldn't do at all for 3 years. Best of luck to you I'm sure you will feel better to!!

[new.life.2014 17]

Nawnaern777 thank you so much for posting. I, too, have gained many pounds from dreaded prednisone but have always been heavy so I can't blame it. However, it's great to hear that you have done so well. I'm fortunate that I've found an MS medication that has worked well at keeping my progression and attacks at bay so I've not had to have large steroid doses in awhile and hope that continues. But, knowing you are doing so well while continuing prednisone is so encouraging. Thanks so much!!

[Teachamy 1,042]

Prednisone is hell! So glad I am off of it.

Hi! I am Amy and I sometimes feel like I have won the autoimmune jackpot--type I diabetes, transverse myelitis, chronic hives, celiac, hashimoto's thyroid--the list goes on. What is AMAZING about this surgery is it affects the gut hormones that cause an inflammatory response in the body, and is the cause of many autoimmune conditions.

My diabetes and insulin need has changed tremendously for the better, which will help my cholesterol too. My blood pressure meds have been cut, and I rarely need an allergy pill for my hives. (Let alone prednisone!)

This surgery is a saving grace for many of us. Glad you have made this decision! You won't regret it.

[new.life.2014 17]

Amy - wow, you have a lot to deal with. But you are so positive and have provided much encouragement. It's great to hear how others with similar conditions are being impacted so positively!!

[Carin 6]

Hi - Thank you for posting. This is so helpful. I have MS and I am in the process of getting ready for surgery. Hopefully, I will have my surgery in April. I was also concerned about flare ups. However, I realize that having less weight would give me more energy to exercise which would do nothing but benefit me in the end. I have been truly blessed. My medication and prayer keeps me healthy. I have not had a relapse in 7 years. I am excited but also nervous about the surgery. New Life 2014 we will support each other. I started with the doctor's visits in January and now I am one doctor visit from having everything in place for the surgery. Please keep in touch.

[new.life.2014 17]

Carin - how great to hear from another MS'er! My decision to finally commit was at a neurologist visit in January where he confirmed that getting the excess weight off via WLS was the best decision I could make for my overall health.

Can I ask what medication you are on? You are doing fantastic with no relapse in 7 years!! I'm currently on tysabri and have been for a year and a half. I started it after a horrible relapse - the first in over 5 years. That was about 18 months ago and I've been much better since. I keep telling myself that tysabri is helping me now and hopefully will continue to do so, but getting the weight off will be just as helpful.

Please stay in touch! It will be great to take this journey together.

[Susysleever 265]

Hi. I just came back from NP and she gave me very grim news. Prob Ms. I knew my balance, vision, cognitive function, and exhaustion. I had an iffy mri 7 years ago. I'm 56 and am hopeful of milder symptoms as my diagnosis was made later in life.

I am pre op and wondering what surgery looks like with a diagnosis. thanks for any thoughts and words of wisdom

[rensterness 375]

I've been a silent stalker in this site on and off for about a year. I started seriously considering WLS for about a couple of years but just recently made the decision that it's the right thing for me. I went into this process thinking that I would only consider the lap band but after the info session and consult with my surgeon I've decided that the sleeve is the best option for me. I have my psych eval and first appointment with the nutritionist on March 5.

I'm a single mom to a beautiful 3 year old daughter and also have multiple sclerosis, on addition to being morbidly obese. I'm starting this journey for myself, but also my daughter. I need to be the positive influence in her life that she deserves.

I find these forums so helpful and insightful. I have learned that I'm not alone in my fears that ending my relationship with food and that it's possible but takes hard work. I'm ready for this and know I will do it.

Just wondering - anyone else going thru this with MS or other autoimmune diseases? Did it affect you?

Looking forward to making new friends and finding support on my journey, those with or without autoimmune issues.

Hello!

First off congratulations on your decision to have weight loss surgery! I am a 38 year old male with Lupus and Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome, both autoimmune diseases. I am now give months post op and feel amazing when it comes to the difference in my Lupus and APABS. My muscles feel better, I walk better, just feel better in general. Yes, I still have a low immune system and get sick, but my everyday life has really changed from the decision to have the surgery. I feel 'normal' for the first time in my life, and boy does it feel amazing! Hope this helped a bit and hope you keep us updated

[new.life.2014 17]

Susysleever - so sorry to hear of your diagnosis. It's hard to accept, I know. As for surgery, I'm still preop but my neurologist was very supportive if surgery. Weak legs and extra weight don't mix well.

[new.life.2014 17]

Renaterness - what a great motivation! So glad u are feeling so great. How much have u lost?

[rensterness 375]

Renaterness - what a great motivation! So glad u are feeling so great. How much have u lost?

I am five months post op and down over 110 since day of surgery! Remember though, men lose quicker then women, I know, damn is men! Lol. Please keep us updated! Look forward to hearing your progress!!!

[new.life.2014 17]

Rensterness - wow!!!! That's amazing!! You are doing fantastic!!