cc1967

Thank you. Sorry for the typos, don't know how to edit on my Kindle

I am have surgery in two weeks, it will be 53 weeks after my first info session. There were a few reasons why the journey has been such along one; I couldn't get an initial appointment until 8 weeks after the first session. Then, I stat a new job and couldn't get time off to see the P.A., or exercise physiologist. I had a few other delay but fortunately they were not due to being unable to lose the pre-op weight or pass the exercise test. The info sessions and six weeks of behavior modification training, mindfulness eating has been helpful. I have also gone to therapy and a 12 step program for over eating. I know full well this is not a cure all but a tool. I think full disclosure is crucial as well as realistic expectations. I learned that the first year is critical for getting the weight off, while my body is healing from the bypass and afterwards I will be focused on maintaining. The post open people explained how important it is to follow the instructions to a "t", and discussed all the good and bad. I have had a few major surgeries and one laparoscopic so I think I am prepared physically. I have also been told by surgeon and others the first couple weeks are very hard psychologically and I will have a stage of "OMG, why did I do this?" I read the boards and think a lot of people have unrealistic expectations and also have a lot to deal with if they are also going to be learning how to be a healthy weight for the first time as well. My surgeon start up told me people have killed themselves if they don't have another coping mechanism besides food. One woman told us she ran up an $8000 credit card bill buying new clothes right after she started losing weight. So, i am grateful for the stories, education and know I will still have down days. I also know that I will still be disorganized, have a temper and other issues but will have less pain madness body fat as I continue to work on improving.