March 2nd, 2012, began as any ordinary day, except I was in Mexico, and I was HUNGRY, oh, and did I forget to mention I was having Weight Loss Surgery (Sleeve Gastrectomy) in just a few short hours?
I began this journey all alone, but quickly made new friends who would prove to be there for me, and everyone else going through this surgery while we were there (we still keep in touch).
My story begins at 5'9" and 278lbs, and as I was watching my weight climb, I wondered how long I would be around for my children. I must have researched for over a year, tried eating healthy, anything to beat this weight....but no luck. The insurance company wouldn't cover any sort of "weight loss attempts", including simple weight medication....but isn't Obesity a "Disease"? I don't get it. I didn't have the money for the surgery, costing in the U.S. around $22,000, so I looked into what's known as "Medical Tourism". I joined a forum for answers (Vertical Sleeve Talk), researched Doctors, and simply made my mind up one day. Off to Tijuana, Mexico I go! Now, I know what you're thinking "Mexico isn't safe, they'll harvest your organs!". Guess what? The only thing I'm missing is 80% of my stomach, just like they promised ;-).
The first day was the hardest, as they literally make you get up and walk as soon as you wake up in recovery. They bloat your tummy with a gas, and walking is the only way to get it out.....and if you don't, it can be the most painful thing. Water will hurt to drink the next day, it feels like you'll choke and die. Did I mention the walking hurt? You may dry heave the entire time you're doing laps around the hospital, so carry your puke bucket with you.
I'm now a mere ten days out, and have already lost 19 lbs! Yay! I will keep you posted on my progress, and if I can answer your questions, just let me know!
