History

Jun 06, 2012

My referral for surgery was sent in 2004. I had a consult with a Dr. MacDonald in Halifax in the spring of 2005. At that time the gastric bypass was the only surgery available. Dr. MacDonald did not recommend the surgery for me because I didn't NEED it. I didn't have any health issues or anything holding me back from losing the excess weight on my own.  Because there are so many complications possible with the surgery he didn't encourage this option. The lap band wasn't covered or available in this region yet. The closest hospital was in Montreal and I'd have to pay for the actual band, only the surgery would be covered. This would be a 12 hour drive one-way. I told Dr. MacDonald to keep my name on the list and when it came time for actual surgery for me, I'd make my decision then.

Fast forward to 2012. I've dieted and exercised and lost weight a number of times since 2005. I've been on a medically supervised drug trial with Pfizer, have tried Atkins, Herbal Magic, and my own willpower. I've had limited success with losing and then keeping it off (about 70 lbs each time). 

I received a call from the bariatric clinic  in NB asking if I was still interested in surgery? Since I'm back up to the weight I was in 2004, I said 'yes' and asked what surgeries were now available (lap band, gastric bypass and VSG).  My initial consult with the surgeon was scheduled for June 04, 2012. Needless to say, I was estastic for this opportunity!

I'm 40, 5'6", low 300's, not married, no children, work full time (M-F, 8-4), and, knock on wood, continue to have no health issues nor take any medications.

I wanted to document my journey but moreso the FAQ's side of it, as opposed to a personal blog. Many ladies who have had this surgery in Charlottetown / PEI have been a wealth of information for me and have truly been a blessing. I'm hoping to pay that forward with blogging about the VSG journey in NB.

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