In Our Own Words

I am 40, morbidly obese and have been overweight since early childhood. I have tried and failed with every type of diet there is out there, lost 10-30 lbs only to gain back significantly more. I have severe lower back pain and my ankles are very weak and I huff and puff at the slightest incline and have to rest. I have many other physical issues to deal with 24/7 that I have been told will be relieved or disappear with WLS. I suffer from Bipolar but spend most of the time in depression. My medications also contribute to excess weight. WLS is my only option, it is the tool that will help me lose weight as long as I exercise and eat correctly. I have not worked in the field I want to because I don’t fit into any uniforms – tourism. Due to my weight, my depression and very low self-esteem I have not worked for three years. This is not what I want out of life. In order for me to move on I need WLS as soon as possible.

The wait lists for consults and surgery are intolerably long: 2 – 4 years. Why? Lack of OR time, staff, lack of qualified surgeons and WLS is regarded as elective surgery rather than a necessity. The longer the delays the more health concerns and support requirements arise. These financial medical costs for B.C. and federal coffers are only going to increase in leaps and bounds if this is not addressed now.