Today I moved closer to my lap band surgery. I started the day by filing my claim for short term disability for my recovery after surgery. It was quick and painless. I understand that it takes a week or so for the insurance company to approve it.

I had an appointment with my surgeon later in the morning to sign my consent for the surgery. The surgeon described the procedure in detail, the possible complications and timeline for recovery. He answered all my questions. The good news is that he is very happy with my diet progress. I was down 25 pounds! He said that I definitely have exceeded his expectations. With a lower BMI and healthier body, the surgery will go smoother. I hope to add another 5 pound loss to that over the next 11 days.

I did get a surprise. I discovered that I have a hiatal hernia. That is when the top of the stomach bulges above the esophagus. It is not life threatening. By age 60, about 60% of the population has this condition. He will repair it during surgery so that the lap band fits the stomach opening properly.

Surgery is quickly approaching. I am nervous with a lot of scenarios running through my mind. I was glad I had the talk with Dr. Z. He has such a great prognosis for me. I know it’s the right thing to do. The next 11 days will definitely be an anxious time for me.