We'll it's getting closer to my date!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Went to see my primary physician today to get final labs and referal for esophageal manometry. My Dr. is not pleased that i'm having this procedure in fact he's very negative about it. He said " He doesn't want to be called if I die getting the procedure done". It's a little disheartning. He's a endocrinologist I have been his patient for years. Maybe he's upset because in the long run i'll be off insulin and all those oral hyperglycemic agents and all the blood pressure medicine. I don't know. all I know is that I must do this so that I can feel better about myself and also, feel better in this torn down body. I'm tired of feeling like i'm 60yrs old when i'm only 40. Ok feel a lot since i've vented. Here at work as usual. Thanks for listening.

Fran

Soon to be banded 12-2-2004 Please everyone keep me in your prayers. Still nervous the closer it gets.

Fran, sending you (((hugs))) and encouragement for an uneventful surgery and minimum pain recovery! In just a few short weeks, you'll be drastically reducing, if not totally eliminating those prescriptions. Your health issues will reduce, the RXs will reduce, your weight will reduce. You'll spend less money on RXs, on dr. visits, on tests, not counting less on foods. You'll feel like a brand new person - a very good person. Best of luck to you!

Phooey on your endocrinologist!!! He has no idea what he's talking about. People don't die getting the lapband done. Sheesh!! Would he have made such an inane comment if you were going in for a joint replacement or something? Of course not.

Before banding, I saw an endocrinologist once or twice while I was getting my thyroid checked out. He suggested I look into bariatric surgery (which I'd already decided to do) but he was so out of touch his recommendation was VBG (vertical banded gastroplasty). This was an early version of "stomach stapling" that isn't even performed anymore because it's ineffective. :rolleyes

My conclusion was that endocrinologists are not up on current advancements in baritric surgery.

It is very natural for you to be nervous. I was anxious and nervous, but the day of surgery I was really calm. I just knew I was doing the right thing. You have the gut feeling that this is right for you, and I have always believed in going with the gut feeling. Believe me, you won't be sorry for getting this surgery. Good Luck!

Sounds like you and your doctor have a bad rapport. If possible try to get a different doctor. I have no patience with this type of health professional, and they shouldn't have any patients either!

It's your body and your life. If he can't talk to you from an informed base, find someone who will. Your life is more important than his paycheck. You go. Unless he's also your parent he had no right talking to you this way.

I have recieved varied comments from specialists, 'cause they are just that. They know what they know, and darn little else. My GP has to keep up to date on many areas, not just one, this surgery was his idea. Supportive PCP's can be found.

Good luck and best wishes.

What Alex said!! And I also agree with Ryan that you should look for a more informed PCP. If my PCP said something like that to me, I would find myself questioning all the treatment he had given me and wonder if his knowlege and judgement is what is best for me. My trust would most certainly be replaced with doubt.

It's normal to be nervous. I got a little nervouse a couple days before, but on the day of surgery I was cool as a cucumber. However, my DH was a basket case, LOL!!!

Good luck to you! I am sure you will be just fine!

If you truly like your long time primary care doctor than perhaps you should get him some literature or one of the books on the banding. Your likelihood of dying from the band are a tiny fraction of what they would be if you were getting any of the by-passes done. He is just ill informed. I don't think my primary is all together familiar with the procedure either but he was more freaked about me going to Mexico to have it done. I remember going to visit him with my brother shortly after getting back from surgery and he just couldn't keep his eyes off of me (it was my brothers appt.). I think he was totally amazed I made it home alive and didn't look like a normal surgical patient recovering. I love my doctor and wouldn't switch for anything. The best I can do is educate him and show him the positives of the band. I know what it is like having a horrible, mean, non-caring doctor and am thrilled I no longer have to deal with one. Your surgery will go fine and your doctor will see how great you do, Teresa

My PCP is thrilled, she's tall and thin, obviously, weight has never been an issue. When I told her a year ago I was researching the adjustable band, she was very interested. Thursday when I went for my physical and told her I was going to be the 1st band for our area, she said after our last visit she went on line and researched and thought I was making a great decision!

You guys know how much better than made me feel right! She told me not to worry about being the 1st that she had checked on the surgeon and everything would be fine....and for me to return in April just so she could see the new me.

PS Fran, when you're done with all those hugs and well wishes, please send them my way, I'll be 4 days behind you.

My PCP is thrilled, she's tall and thin, obviously, weight has never been an issue. When I told her a year ago I was researching the adjustable band, she was very interested. Thursday when I went for my physical and told her I was going to be the 1st band for our area, she said after our last visit she went on line and researched and thought I was making a great decision!

Harleynana, it sounds like you and I have the same PCP!! When I first mentioned surgery to my doc she was ambivalent, because she has a couple of patients who have had the RNY and she doesn't like what it's done to them. But once I explained about the band and showed her Inamed's booklet, she changed her tune. And she's VERY pleased with my improved health!

Congrats Harleynana

I Wish You Much Luck Also. I'll Be Sure To Let You Know When I Receive Mine And How The Procedure Went. Thanks Again For Your Reply

Fran

Hi Fran,

My cardiologist said something negative about the band and patients not losing weight as quickly as with bypass, and that the band wasn't as 'good'. I gave him some info and let it be as I didn't need his approval to have surgery. I work with physicians and I find a variety of responses from "What is that?" to "...doesn't work" to "Cool!" I think that if they are uninformed and providing care to a patient, they don't want to be held responsible should there be issues (sue-scared).

My experience so far has been very positive. I get my first fill on 12/2 (yes, the day you have surgery--I'll be thinking of ya) and I have lost 20 pounds already. I have ZERO regrets and doubt I ever will have any. I knew this was absolutely the right procedure for me.

Stay strong in your desire to get the band as a tool that will transform your life in such a positive way.

I'll be keeping you in my thoughts on 12/2!

Hello everyone,

It's me again Fran, had my last appt. before surgery today, signed all my consents.

Had my esophageal manometry. today also. It wasn't too bad. I hope everyone is keeping me in their prayers. Will let you know how things go. Till next time.

Fran

Good luck to you Fran! I hope everything goes smoothly for you and wish you a speedy recovery! Please let us know how you are doing when you feel up to it!

Good luck. It's natural to worry a little, but this is a very safe surgery. Sending prayers your way.

Nancy

P.S. I'd tell your endocrinologist that if you die, you definitely will not be calling him. It's unfortunate that he doesn't understand physiology better than that.

Well Fran, it's the 3rd, I guess a little early to be letting us know how you're doing, but just wanted to let you know I'm thinking about you and will be right behind you. Save all those liquid recipes for me, LOL.

Hope all is well!