Cardiac Stress Test, Psychological Evaluation and More...

Well, I have lost a grand total of 9 pounds on my pre-op eating plan and I must say that I am quite proud of myself! Surprisingly I haven't felt too deprived. If I crave something I find a way to prepare it in a healthy way. I was getting a bit bored with my snack selections, so I have been on a mission to mix it up a bit. I have only come across one meal I am not a fan of and that's turkey burger on on whole wheat bread thins; talk about gross. The turkey was dry (it was 99% fat free) and bland despite my seasoning it with Mrs. Grass onion soup and other spices. But any way, enough about that, LOL!

I completed the cardiac stress test and they aren't kidding when they say "stress" test"! I thought I was going to cough up a lung I was so out of breath. First I had to lay down on my back with this Darth Vader like mask on that covered my nose and mouth. I had to lay there for fifteen minutes as my baseline metabolic rate was calculated...that is, how many calories I burn while at rest. Then it was treadmill time. Oh my goodness, I learned in ten short minutes just how out of shape I am. I was sore for three days afterward and my left knee is still sore. The results were good though and that is just one more pre-op requirement checked off the list!

I had the pre-op psychological evaluation done as well and from what I can tell, I "passed" and am not too nutty to have surgery. However, I do have to meet with the psychologist in about 2 weeks to discuss the report she will be submitting to Beaumont Hospital for my surgery file. I was asked about my life history, what issues I believe I have with food and questions regarding my knowledge about the surgery I am choosing to have.

I have saved the best news for last! I finally, got a straight answer from my insurance company and....drum roll please.....THE VERTICAL SLEEVE GASTRECTOMY IS COVERED AS A STAND ALONE PROCEDURE and I DO NOT NEED TO COMPLETE A 6 MONTH MEDICALLY SUPERVISED DIET!! Woohooooo!!!
The next step in the process is to see the surgeon after my psychological evaluation is in my file. In the meantime, wish me luck on my lifestyle changes...till next time !