coco516796
5 weeks out
Aug 13, 2013
Over the course of 3 years, I am the 4th member in my family to be sleeved by Dr. Alvarez, but the first teenager. I am 17 years old and had already become very familiar with the journey Dr. Alvarez and his team prepares for you from the second you decide to be sleeved to the moment you return home from surgery. Despite the 3-year spread between each of my family members' procedure, his care for you is a very well-oiled machine where each member on his team carefully ensures your welfare and recovery. This surgery was with my father - together we were to be sleeved! Upon arrival, his driver Rosy takes you through the wonderful pecan and mesquite farms of Texas until you arrive at Eagle Pass, just a mile or so from the Mexican Border. Resting in Eagle Pass for the evening was very nice as I was able to eat my last guilty pleasure and rest for surgery the next morning. Rosy transported us to Dr. Alvarez's office at 7:30 am where he evaluates, once again, your paperwork, physical weight and vitals, and answers any questions. The hospital had been newly remodeled since a few years back, particularly with linens, new tiles, and upgraded hospital rooms. I was overcome by how attentive the nurses in Mexico were - I don't know if I was surprised that they cared too much, or that our hospitals in the U.S. rarely do! Each nurse played a specific role in making sure my IV, pulse, medication, possible side effects, and even water were checked often. The procedure for each of us took less than an hour. We recovered in two separate side-by-side rooms and had a tremendous team of nurses around the clock. My father's recovery was a bit more sensitive as he had a hernia which Dr. Alvarez repaired, but showed no signs of pain or discomfort. We walked the hallways to release gas trapped in our shoulders and looked forward to checking out so that we could drink again after two days of IVs. As a teenager, this was the best decision for me. In less than 5 weeks, I've lost over 30 lbs! Originally 185lbs at a height of 5'3" - and a D-cup, I don't think I could have lost the weight without the Vertical Sleeve. The hospital in Piedras Negras is literally a stone's throw from Eagle Pass - with less than 2 minute drive. The town is friendly (we bought a hand-made leather belt!), the people are so nice and take tremendous pride in their culture, and the hospital is truly becoming a "hot spot" of very talented surgeons who are able to provide affordable procedures to many people. I am sad that I didn't have the opportunity to say goodbye to the many nurses who cared for me. Having never had surgery before, one nurse watched my body as the IV dripped anti-nausea medication. Turns out I was allergic and my skin was a bit red. She quickly stopped it, gave me cortizone and never stopped caring for me until I checked out. While the team understands basic expressions, there is always an English-speaking nurse available. The sincerity and loyalty to me, as a patient and a teenager, was felt every minute of my stay, especially with Dr. Alvarez and his team. Along with my father, I have now entered the 5th week, marking the official journey eating basic solid foods for the first time. Never could I have imagined my body, health and welfare in a place without constant struggles and lack of confidence. As I prepare for college, I am in a better place. Thank you Dr. Alvarez for this gift - I am happy I did not wait my entire life for this, like most do.
It's Final
Mar 30, 2013
Just received my final surgery date. July 11th and I will be flying in with my parents on July 9th to see Dr. Alvarez.
A little bit about myself: I'm 17 years old, have been overweight as long as I can remember. I'm 5"2 and 170 pounds is very heavy for someone with my height. My mom and grandma also had this surgery with Alvarez 4 years ago. I know Alvarez is one of the best in the field however I am still naturally nervous about leaks. I am just hoping this surgery will give me a normal teen life.
101 more days to go
