calais71
Well like everyone else, I have a problem with weight. From my early teenage years, my weight has been a burden to my health. Be it emotionally or physically.
Back in the day, those 20 something years ago, I used to play baseball, ride horses weekly, be active all the way through college.
Once I finished college, I had pulmonary embolism in my lung. At first the hospital said it was pneumonia and sent me home after a week of tests. Sure enough, a week later, I was rushed back to the hospital with a large clot in my lung. After more testing it was determined that I had lost the use of part of my lung from the clot. Up to three quarters of my lung has scaring, thus affecting my ability to take in oxygen. So I get winded quite easily. I take warfarin daily to prevent further clots, as I have a gene mutation that allows my blood to clot on its own.
It's been 15 years now since I had a clot, and my health continued to deteriorate each year. As the pounds go up or down, the extra weight has hampered my breathing, my joints, (knee, back, hip)
Although the damage to my lung is irreversible. I want my health, my life to improve. Just like everyone.
In 2003, I did the Bernstein diet. I lost 80lbs. Felt great, well until I went back to my old habits. Sure enough the weight came back on and more.
I did varies diets, weight watchers, for 6yrs, but I'd lose then gain back. A constant battle.
Over the last few years, I've had problems with my joints, arthritis, constant back pain.
So I then ventured to the Barix center to look into wls. Sure enough they wanted a stress test completed. I get it done, passed, and Ohip changes the OOC regulations.
In December of '09 my referal got sent to Guelph. Only to get caught up in the central registry. Uggh what fun that was.
In May '10 I got a call from St. Joe's orientation ! Finally some good news.
Since orientation, appointments came and the process went fast. As I type this, (mid Oct) I'm just waiting for a surgery day. The same day I get my 'tool' to help guide me to a healthier life.
Cheers,
J.
