SweetTee

OMG! I was just mentioning to my DH that I used to look at myself and think I looked like a fuller Jessica Simpson. Except, that I see now that I acutally look like Homer Simpson (what with my abdomen being all round and now being a pear-shaped instead of hourglass).

I can so relate to this. I mean when I see myself in pictures, I'm like who the heck is that! I can hardly believe that it's me. I wonder, man did other people see this, OMG they must be horrified! I don't think it really sinks in initially. When I started taking before pictures of myself, I couldn't believe my eyes. I dare not post them until I have some after pictures to soften the blow! LOL

Good luck! I will keep you in prayer. I pray that you have a speedy recovery and all goes well. Keep us posted!

Nurse for 15 years, RN for 6 years. Presently in school working on my Masters, graduating in Dec. 2012 FNP. Trying to get sleeved in the middle of the semester in between clinical rotations. Presently working Psyc and Telemetry!

You'll be ok. It's not absolutely necessary to keep a bandage at the opening. You can tuck the bulb itself in your underwear. The most important thing is keeping the site clean. How are you feeling?

Congratulations to you, may you have a speedy recovery!

I'm sorry to hear about your husband losing his job. I know you're disappointed, so often we have to put our greatest desires on hold for the sake of our families. I pray that he finds work soon and that you're able to reschedule your surgery. I too have pondered surgery for a long time and had to put the thought aside due to my husband being out of work. Stay encouraged and know that this too shall pass.

Great news! Congrats!

I'm with you guys on that! This will prob be one of the best rewards!

Lmao! That Is a great thing to look forward to! Lights on, covers off! The shower, wherever! Lol

TransformerOfYoungMinds you are so right. It will totally be worth it. I can't wait until my day comes. I'm so looking forward to life after my sleeve. I can't wait to feel better about myself as a whole.

OMG yes beanzilla! I tried all last year to find a pair of knee high boots that looked great on me and failed. I'm def gonna get a pair and I also want a one shoulder dress and the high heels to match. I so love shopping for shoes but when you're overweight it's like having balls and chains wearing you down while you walk, your off balance and the heels dig into the ground.

I agree cantwaittolose, I know I've become very antisocial and often I shy away from family events and social occasions. My husband always wants to go out to various places and I feel so uncomfortable in all my clothes and like you said not to mention the chairs. When I'm in class I dread having to sit in the small desk or the ones with the fold down desktops. It's so embarrassing. People can tell you your not that big or you carry your weight ok but how you feel about yourself is what really counts.

Zoey1176, Oh, the Water park is a great idea! I may finally be able to wear a two piece which does not include a pair of shorts and a shirt to hide the fat, lol

I want to ride bikes with my kids, bend down easily to tie my shoes, tuck in my shirt and put on a belt without feeling self conscious. Run, jump and enjoy life to the fullest!

I originally anticipated a Nov surgery date and I've been contemplating hard about moving it up. I would hate to go through the holidays and be sick at the sight of food. I can't wait though, by next 4th we will be in better health and shape!

I can understand the disappointment of not completing the procedure when you planned; however, as they say good things come to those that wait. Do what is best for your health. Look always at the positives, he did not say it absolutely couldn't be done and the damage will heal itself in time. Good luck on your journey! In due time what you desire will be yours.

Way to go Patrick! You are an inspiration for us all. For once I bet it feels great to be a loser! I can't wait to join you on the losers bench! I'll be praying for you!

Dr Almanza was highly recommended by a friend of mine. She along with 4 coworkers went to him, all with positive results. I guess the idea about a strip mall type of facility can be somewhat nerve wrecking when making such a huge decision. I can say that all of the individuals that went with him were Registered Nurses employed at a major hospital. They spoke highly of the condition of the clinic. They said it was extremely clean and had all of the proper equipment one would expect. Nothing fancy, but definitely efficient. They also spoke highly of the staff and from what I've researched most all of his patients have felt the same way. Any surgery comes with risk and individuals with other complications and higher BMI's are at the greatest risk for complications. I can tell you that my friend had hers performed by Dr Almanza and at the same time her coworker had one performed by a surgeon in the US. Well my friend who works in the school system was back to work in two days upon returning back to the states whereas her coworker suffered complications and was out the entire school year having to undergo surgery twice more due to complications. I guess you just never know.

And MrzSongBird, I'm right behind you!

I was discussing this with my friend earlier, I too am having my surgery done by Dr Almanza. Because of going to Mexico many people tend to think negative. They think you are going to receive substandard care and you are putting your life at greater risk. I am a Registered Nurse an although I want to lose weight I will not do this at any cost. I personally know several people friends and coworkers that have been sleeved through him and his care comes highly regarded. Having to face that type of scrutiny is the reason I will not be telling everyone I meet, at least not until it's over. I want only positive thoughts and prayers. This sight has a lot of positive and inspiring people, that's what attracted me here.

Well as said before my husband and I have been together for 20 years, we have a marriage built on our love for God and each other. We have been through "for better or worse" and we still stand. Now don't misunderstand me Stein when I say I'm doing this for him, my children, and me. As much as we've discussed exercise it has always been about wanting to see me healthier. I complain about my back, knees, etc....and for those of us who carry around this excess weight because of what We've done to ourselves, I know you can relate. I have no doubt because he tells me everyday "I love you no matter what", but I'm not loving me. Me feeling sexy, healthy, with more stamina will improve our marriage, quality of time we spend together as a whole family, and our intimate moments. So this benefits my physical, psychological and social health. This makes it about more than just me. This is an all inclusive move! Whether he realizes it or not, this will put as big a smile on his face as mine, lol.

Well put MrzSongBird!

I totally agree with Wheetsin. My husband is so much of an advocate in exercise and he works out with the endurance of a jackrabbit! I would try bike riding, jogging, or whatever with him but just as she says afterwards I find myself eating like crazy defeating the purpose. He can consume truckloads of food and never gain a pound. We have been together for twenty years so he knew me at 115lbs and slowly I've skyrocketed to a whopping 232 lbs on this 5"1 frame. Although he says he loves me, I know this is not the kind of woman he's attracted to. He has also made comments about me going down this road. Sometimes I think he thinks a change in me is for attraction of attention elsewhere. It's so strange that he thinks that, but I can tell by his comments that he does. The truth is I want my active life back. I want to be able to keep up with him and not to mention our 4 kids. Being overweight impacts your intimacy, endurance, and overall perception of self. I don't think they really understand. It's not just about us, it's a choice for our entire family.

NuStartInTx i think i have those same fears and anxiety as you. I guess you always ponder the what if's, I personally know that's why it has taken me so long to decide on doing it. My surgery won't be until November so the good thing about that is I get to have some motivation from others before me while I wait. I agree with Toni Day though, we do owe it to ourselves to be healthy and happy. I don't think anyone would say that they don't mind having difficulty with simply tasks such as lacing their shoes or picking up something from the floor. I will keep you in prayer. Think positive thoughts and imagine a more healthier and vibriant life.

My friend had a VSG at Jerusalem Hospital in Feb 2012. She spoke very highly of Louise and I was also concerned when I noticed that she was no longer listed on the site. I had emailed her back in May to schedule the surgery for June or July but weeks went by with no reply so I dropped the issue. I emailed Melissa a few days ago and she responded first thing the next morning and got the ball rolling! I am looking forward to surgery in November if possible! All that's left is to secure the date and dream about my new life that awaits! I'm new to this sight so if any of you can keep me updated on your progress and experiences that would be great!