Last night my Bariatric group had an award ceremony to honor all the patients, families and the team. We listened to the stories of a lot of people, cried a ton and even my mild manned meek surgeon spoke (rare, very rare)

I was too nervous to get up and speak this year, my first event, but next year I will.

So I'll leave my story of appreciation here. Please leave yours also.

Jan '17 started having A LOT of vision issues, basically going blind, big problem for an artist/photographer/human. Went to Opthalmologist and she saw extreme swelling on optic nerve, sent me to ER, confirmed somewhat rare neurological condition that would require meds , 3 neurosurgeries and weight loss. Couldn't believe it I was healthy obese lol, vegan etc. Just lost 30lbs on my own, Fooling myself...

At my wits end and after 3 different neurosurgeon consults I was not confident I would be any better after brain surgery. I cried alot & I decided weight loss because what's the since in still risking developing more issues later, but they stressed that it had to be alot and fast.

Lightbulb. Same day, same day went to info session for my surgeon. Decided that day to do it.

Dr. Mehul Trivedi. Told him my story, he told me his, said it could be done, did it before. He was right.

I'm not totally fine, probably will never be, my fault, staying so heavy for so long, cautionary tale, but I don't think I'll get worse.

I'm so thankful to the Creator for the advancements in modern medicine and those who can execute it properly. This practice won a 2018 Women's choice award, they make you feel like family, you'll see the PA, Tyler (increadibly amazing) and NUT, Beth (absolutely amazing) more than the surgeon but that's because he's Always in surgery. I'm cool with that.

The first time I saw the Mona Lisa it was on a "farewell to my sight tour" the last time it was "I'll see you again".

Grateful.

Edited September 12, 20187 yr by GreenTealael

@GreenTealael your story is so touching and it shows how courageous you are. You took your life back and got in control...everyone has a story, maybe one day I’ll have the courage to share mine. Thank you for being so open and honest.

Oh wow @GreenTealael, I felt that I "knew" you, but this adds a whole other dimension.

You had said before you were doing this due to a medical condition. I figured it was one of the typical weight related issues. I admire your courage, because the thought of losing my vision would be absolutely terrifying, even though I'm just looking at spreadsheets and PowerPoints, and I have to admit I failed to "get" the Mona Lisa .

Super brave of you and super proud of you for taking the sometimes scary step of WLS in order to regain control of your life and your vision!

Thank you for sharing your story! Very brave to make this decision with the odds stacked against you. You are very inspiring and courageous.

I knew I wanted you for my friend the first times I read your posts and the story you have related, I made a perfect First Assessment! God Bless and Keep You!?

Currently have blurry vision ... From tears

Edited September 12, 20187 yr by GreenTealael