- Name: Christine Rodriguez
- Age: 53
- Surgery: Gastric Sleeve
- Surgery date: July 23rd, 2018
- Testimonial date: August 10th, 2018
- Surgeon: Dr. Mario Almanza
I want to share a bit about my experiences getting the gastric sleeve surgery to help anyone else who is considering doing the same thing. The process was fairly simple at the airport, we arrived early and so there was some confusion but once we sorted it out, we were on a van with the driver, Tony, and on our way! My adult son accompanied me so I wouldn't be so nervous. They checked me in as soon as I got there, weighed, blood drawn, paperwork filled out (a mini random test on page 2 that you don't need to stress about) and heart checked out. Once I was cleared for surgery, a very nice nurse escorted us to the third floor to a beautiful room with a balcony and we were told we got to stay there for the duration. This was a happy surprise for us because we were told we would have to transfer to a hotel but they had enough room for us for the whole time! Once we were situated, we caught an Uber and went downtown to the mall. It cost two US dollars! We just gave the guy a five and he was so grateful! We walked around the mall and came back for the evening where they told me they would be waking me up at 5am, prepping me for surgery along with three others and then we would all meet the surgeon. The next morning, all prepped by very nice bi-lingual nurses, we went down and listened to the surgeon talk about the process and his own journey. I was first up. Surgery was quick and before I knew, I was in recovery! I stayed in the recovery room for 2 days and walked for 5-10 minutes every hour while my son stayed upstairs in our other room! He made friends with the other support relatives and while we were sleeping, they would grab an Uber and go eat and sight-see. For me, there was no pain associated with the procedure, just gas pains and lots of discomfort, I don't know how else to put it. The nursing staff are efficient and gave pain medicine early when requested. All the rooms have TV's and comfortable adjustable beds. On the second day, we had to drink this purple clear liquid and then go downstairs and drink this goopy stuff while they x-rayed our stomachs to make sure there were no leaks. Once done, we started prepping to be released. The drain was removed from our abdomen (I didn't feel anything), IV removed and we were good to walk around or go out on the town. I stayed in the hospital but others left and went shopping, I really didn't feel that great! On day 4, we got up and were back on the van towards the hospital. There is little choice which shuttle you take so I don't recommend a late flight. In fact, if you can afford it, personally I would recommend staying one more night in San Diego. Every day you progressively feel better. I had to fly to Alaska which is a long flight so I would have preferred another day of recuperation!
I am on day 15 and I've lost 26 pounds since pre-op diet and 18 pounds since surgery. I just started eating food yesterday. At first, when I was in recovery, I regretted my decision, thought I had made a big mistake but I don't feel that way anymore! I just couldn't lost the weight! Between the cravings and my body not responding when I was eating right, I was always frustrated. I already feel successful and in control. It IS a whole new way of eating and I am learning it but I believe it is worth it in the end. I am so glad I risked it and went to Mexico. I feel supported and part of a community. I joined some Facebook groups that answer my questions and motivate me. I hope this is helpful for anyone thinking about doing this. I'll upload some pictures when I get some!
