- Name: Vanessa Howard
- Age: 24
- Surgery: Gastric Sleeve
- Surgery date: May 16th, 2016
- Testimonial date: September 13th, 2016
- Surgeon: Dr. Carlos Velazquez
First and foremost. Thinking of having s major life surgery away from family and friends and even worse in a different country is a scary thought. I was extremely nervous the entire time. Everyone involved was extremely kind and helpful, after srriving in California I didn't have to worry about travel arrangements. They picked me and some others right up and took us to the hotel. Preop stuff started immediately and I was able to decompress. Morning of surgery I was nervous as ever. Was he hospital clean? Did everyone have broke language barrier? Was this the right decision? I don't remember much minus getting the IV and going in. When I woke up I was in a lot of pain that was quickly relieved with the medication. With 2 hours I was up and walking. (Slow walking and taking it very easy getting in and out of the bed). Next day when I was released to go back to the hotel the staff was very attentive and helpful, checking in with me, giving me fluids and medications. I tried every few hours to get up and walk. It sounds wild because all I wanted to do was lay around and rest, but the best thing is for you to walk and relieve some of the gas! Gas pains suck!! When I got home it was smooth sailing, hardest thing was making myself consume fluids. Clear liquids for 18 days was not easy, I started missing the act of chewing and using s fork. I got very discouraged.. But you just have to stay positive and literally take one second at a time. My diet and limitations were strict. Over the course of 4 months post op I've gotten sick maybe twice. DO NOT OVER EAT AND WAIT 15-30 mins after you eat to drink. People are not joking when they tell you this is a lifestyle change. My health has improved so much, no more medication, no more pains, or doctors appointments. I've lost 73 lbs and feel incredible. Hardest and most satisfying thing I could have done for myself. This is not an easy road but it is so worth it!! This is a very quick testimony I wanted to share!
Feel free to email me directly vanessakristinhoward@gmail.com
