First appointment - what to expect

[Su2ie]

It my first appointment on Friday with the dietician and specialist nurse. Feel excited and a bit daunted all together as I really don't know what to expect and I feel like the process is going to be painfully slow and like an uphill struggle.

 

[Lincs Lass]

I found the build up to the first appointment the worst part of the journey as everything was unknown but after that it does become easier.

Good luck on Friday xx

 

[Su2ie]

Thanks, I guess you're right, it's daunting because so much is unknown.
I find it a little tricky on here because there seems to be loads of people post op or about to have the op. It's great because there's loads of advice and info but it just feels so far away and unreachable at the moment.

 

[TrulySlim]

Thanks, I guess you're right, it's daunting because so much is unknown. I find it a little tricky on here because there seems to be loads of people post op or about to have the op. It's great because there's loads of advice and info but it just feels so far away and unreachable at the moment.

That's exactly how I feel... I'm yet to have my 1st pre-surgery assessment appointment.

But this site gives me hope

 

[Pip1]

Hey... good luck - dont be worried... its not as scary as you think it will be!

This is what happened to me at St Richards, Chichester.

I had my pre-op assessment on 12th July 2013 at St Richard's. My 1st time there... and I got there a bit early (0820) parking was very easy and close to the Loxwood Centre, and the reception was open. Receptionist was very welcoming and friendly - and after a few minutes I was asked to fill in a form to confirm my contact details etc and they asked for an email address (they set you up on an online contact site). I was then weighed () and had my height checked by the receptionist.

Then a few more "customers" arrived... all like me - looking "scared?" and uncertain... but within about 10mins, I was called into see the specialist nurse and so the "fun" started. Basically after that, we all took it in turns to see the nurse, dietician, psychologist, doctor, and then the anesthetist. Basically they go through what surgery YOU think you want, and what THEY suggest (usually the same!) and ask lots of friendly questions to ensure you really are aware of what surgery entails (both pre and post-op). They don't try and trip you up or are trying to "fail" you etc. Its not an interview or a grilling... so don't panic!

Then by about 12-1ish (depending on where you on the list!)... they send you off for lunch and ask you to come back at 2pm. On the day I was there I went upstairs to the lovely cafeteria (I resisted the temptation to have chips !!!) and then watched the Red Arrows performing (for the nearby Goodwood Festival of Speed)... it passed the time and kept my mind off everything.

MEANWHILE - they all have a conference and discuss you in a group and confirm if they think you are fit both mentally and physically for the operation.

Went back at 2... got called in and I saw the dietician who gave me the GOOD news that I WAS a good candidate for the surgery of my choice (Bypass) and then I went and saw a Dr from the Consultant's team to discuss the surgery and get the final tick!!!

I left St Richard's just after 3pm.

I have to say that ALL the staff were very friendly and non-threatening or judgmental. I was a little nervous but they all put me at ease and found them helpful, professional and friendly. Made it SO much easier. Also - I got chatting with the ladies who were also going through the same... so it was good to chat, pass the time and have a laugh at all our issues etc... was good fun chatting to like minded people who are going through the same!!

Im now 4wks on after my surgery (17th Oct)... havent looked back. Feel fab - never better.

Its just another important hurdle to get through... you will be ok. Just relax if you can...

Good luck x

 

[TrulySlim]

Extremely detailed... I love it. Thanks xx