Let the story begin
So I've been contemplating for the past several months if I should share my upcoming news with anyone. I figured I HAD to tell immediate family, but that would be it. Well then, I had to tell my Boss, and then with all my Doctor's appointments, and my obvious inability to lie more and more people ended up finding out. Eventually friends were informed, and even some people I don't even know were wishing me luck.
After talking to more friends and family, I realized that I actually have a lot of supporters. So, here I am...posting my first entry on my Big Fat Blog.
This blogs intentions, are not to gloat about myself, but to share my struggles and triumphs through the entire process of Weight Loss Surgery.
This has been something that has been on my mind for many years. Finally, after a visit home, I made a quick decision to start this process. I began by going to a Lap Band seminar in June 2010. There I quickly realized that this is something I am going to be doing with very little to no support. I was the only person in the entire seminar without someone there with me. It's okay, not the first time I've been alone, and it's not like I'm having surgery right then and there. I'm just there to get information. At this seminar, they discussed three different types of procedures, Gastric Bypass, Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy, and Lap Band.
Originally, I had my mind set on Lap Band. Very invasive, it can be removed, and they adjust it to fit your needs best. Okay, step one, done. Now on to step two. My full time job now was researching surgeons in this area, finding out what my insurance covers, and learning more about this procedure. I found a surgeon in Northern VA, that seemed like a pretty reputable person. So, appointment made. I was able to sit down with Dr. Alshkaki, there he explained in further detail each procedure. He asked which one I was interested in and wanted me to explain why. Now he explained to me the pros and cons of Lap Band, as well as each other procedure. Over the course of my visit, I had learned that the Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy procedure would be the best option for me.
After almost a year of Doctor's visits, testing, screenings, evals and more testing. My insurance changed. Awesome, I just spent how much money, and now we are changing insurance companies? I tried to take a few deep breathes and convinced myself not to throw in the towel just yet. Once everything settled down and I had everything in order, I was able to submit the request in to insurance. Exactly one month later, it was approved :)
Now, as my surgery date is nearly a week away, I keep recapping everything that I've had to do to be able to go through with this, though not nearly as challenging as others'. And I find myself daydreaming of when I can meet the healthier me.
So, as I conclude my very first posting on my Big Fat Blog, I hope you enjoy reading and following my weight loss journey.
After talking to more friends and family, I realized that I actually have a lot of supporters. So, here I am...posting my first entry on my Big Fat Blog.
This blogs intentions, are not to gloat about myself, but to share my struggles and triumphs through the entire process of Weight Loss Surgery.
This has been something that has been on my mind for many years. Finally, after a visit home, I made a quick decision to start this process. I began by going to a Lap Band seminar in June 2010. There I quickly realized that this is something I am going to be doing with very little to no support. I was the only person in the entire seminar without someone there with me. It's okay, not the first time I've been alone, and it's not like I'm having surgery right then and there. I'm just there to get information. At this seminar, they discussed three different types of procedures, Gastric Bypass, Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy, and Lap Band.
Originally, I had my mind set on Lap Band. Very invasive, it can be removed, and they adjust it to fit your needs best. Okay, step one, done. Now on to step two. My full time job now was researching surgeons in this area, finding out what my insurance covers, and learning more about this procedure. I found a surgeon in Northern VA, that seemed like a pretty reputable person. So, appointment made. I was able to sit down with Dr. Alshkaki, there he explained in further detail each procedure. He asked which one I was interested in and wanted me to explain why. Now he explained to me the pros and cons of Lap Band, as well as each other procedure. Over the course of my visit, I had learned that the Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy procedure would be the best option for me.
After almost a year of Doctor's visits, testing, screenings, evals and more testing. My insurance changed. Awesome, I just spent how much money, and now we are changing insurance companies? I tried to take a few deep breathes and convinced myself not to throw in the towel just yet. Once everything settled down and I had everything in order, I was able to submit the request in to insurance. Exactly one month later, it was approved :)
Now, as my surgery date is nearly a week away, I keep recapping everything that I've had to do to be able to go through with this, though not nearly as challenging as others'. And I find myself daydreaming of when I can meet the healthier me.
So, as I conclude my very first posting on my Big Fat Blog, I hope you enjoy reading and following my weight loss journey.
Hey Sarah. I wish you the very best of luck with this surgery and recovery! I'm sure it'll be hard but like you said, it'll lead to a healthier you. I'll be following your blog :) I most certainly enjoyed reading it.
ReplyDeleteWell my baby girl let the journey begin.
ReplyDeleteAs you know I will be there with you with 110% support, love and encouragement. You are very brave and I am proud of you to share your thoughts, struggles and accomplishments with everyone.
See you tomorrow! Don't forget to pick me up!
Love you!
Mom