Hi there, I'm brand new to this forum. I apologize if I'm not doing this correctly...
I am wanting a gastric sleeve. I'm about 4'7" and I don't know my current weight but it's likely 220 or 230 at this point. I am definitely obese.
I'm in a wheelchair. I can't walk at all. I was born with Arthrogryposis. My very limited mobility makes weight loss so difficult. When I try my hardest, I usually manage a 3 lb loss in a month. Then I get discouraged and gain it all right back. It's a messed up cycle. And it doesn't help me at all... I am prone to falling, and with my heavy weight, I end up hurting myself. I struggle to transfer, and I miss being able to transfer without such difficulty. I worry about my future independence. I'm only 29.
I know a lot about this surgery as many of my friends & family members have had it done, but no one is in a wheelchair like I am.
I'm going to speak to a surgeon soon... I just want to know if anyone reading this can relate. Does anyone have experience with this while being handicapped like I am? Similar to how I am? I can't stand up at all. I just worry. My dad had the gastric sleeve and I know they made him walk pretty soon after his surgery. I just wonder what I will need to do to be safe. I'm no stranger to surgery, but I've never had anything like this done.
Thanks in advance for any advice.

Welcome, FayeDolly. These forums are very friendly and supportive and I hope you find some good information here. I don't have any experience with disabilities, but I can answer at least one of your questions. They had your Dad up and walking to prevent blood clots. In your case, they would use the same methods that they used for your other surgeries.

Many people don't do all the exercise that they're supposed to (or any at all) and still lose a lot of weight. I think there's a really good chance that this surgery will do wonders for you. Best of luck!

On 1/31/2019 at 7:59 AM, Orchids&Dragons said:

Many people don't do all the exercise that they're supposed to (or any at all) and still lose a lot of weight.

@FayeDolly

welcome to the board. Most of us don't bite (LOL) - join us, always looking for nice newbies - we give good info/advise/support - there are "sitting" videos - also stuff on u-tube that could help you.

glad you are seeing doc soon - he would be the one to advise you about the surgery and your

circumstances/how you will handle things. - its true (like your dad) we are told to walk immediately after surgery - i'm sure doc will work with you for a new good plan. when you/me/all of us lose weight - it helps us with our mobility/physical problems. ie transferring from wheelchair should get easier /better.

stay on the boards, learn more

KNOWLEDGE is POWER☺️

good luck

kathy