Shannalee

Thank you all for the welcomes I am looking forward to many conversation pre-op and post-op.

I agree with JustJenn....there will be talk but as long as you are health and happy that's all that matters I haven't had surgery yet but I am a little scared as to how those I work with will take the news. I have been going back and forth on if I should tell them. My boss knows and one good friend/co-worker knows but no one else at work. I know that it shouldn't matter what they think but I have worked closely with all of them for 8 years now. Keep up the good work....and you look great

Hello. While this is the first time I've been on this web forum and starting the process to weight loss surgery I am not new to the process. About 10 years ago I went through the process of getting surgery but after a few months I believed that I could do it all by myself. There were times that I was able to but then I would put the weight back on plus much more! Then I would have family members pushing for me to have surgery and I felt like a five year old. It's like when you tell your children not to go into a certain room and instead of walking away they want to see what's behind the door. I just didn't want any one telling me what to do and even though it took a lot of soul searching I realized I need help. Trust me it's not easy for me to ask for help especially when it comes to my weight. Then this past January I hurt my knees and because of my weight they are not healing properly. Walking (especially hiking) and swimming are my favorite things to do for exercise but because of my knees I am unable to do them (which I miss a lot ). I guess I have always believed myself powerful in everything but ultimately I have realized I am not powerful in this. I need help and having surgery is a great tool to get me started. One funny thing has happened since I have come to the conclusion of having this surgery.....I have actually been watching what I eat, drinking Water instead of soda (well at least less soda), and I have completely stopped smoking. My sister said that this change in my behavior might be because this time I am ready and I am inclined to believe her. I have my first of many appointments on November 1st and I am excited to meet the surgeon and his team.

I am in the beginning stages of this process and it took a lot of soul searching to realize I need this tool for help. I have only told a hand full of people and so far they are supportive. There will always be those people that don't support or they pretend they are supportive. You have to remember one thing....this is for you and no one else. They might be more nervous that you are having surgery but it might show they are against the whole process. Trust me I am scared of the reaction when I tell people around me that I'm getting the surgery but no matter the reaction I know that this process is for me. Just remind yourself that in the end you will be healthy.