MSWMike

I found this website thru a friend who recently had the gastric sleeve. It seems the more research I do, the more support networks I find for people who are considering bariatric surgery. It's comforting to know that there are other people out there going through the same things as me...and we can help one another through this process.
I had my first consultation on 4/16/15. While I don't know which surgery I am going to have, I know I need to do something. At 445 lbs, my weight is holding me back from enjoying life. I feel like I'm sitting on the sidelines just watching life go by. I'm limited in what I can do due to joint pain. I can't easily sit in chairs at the movies, or the stadium, or other venues. I get winded. I'm tired of it all.
I have tried numerous diets and exercise programs over the years. I wasn't happy with any of them. Each time I felt like one failed me, I got more depressed- and turned to food for comfort. What I realize now is that I hadn't dealt with my emotional baggage before. Now that I have come to terms and dealt with many of those issues, I feel like I'm finally ready to begin this journey to health. Sadly, I feel that surgical weight loss is my only option at this point.
I think the genesis for the shift in my thinking came when I left my previous job of almost 10 years. I moved into a job that allowed me to fully use my masters degree and I finally felt validated in my capabilities. Since I am now a therapist, I spend my days talking to clients about their feelings, addressing their problems, and helping them improve their life. I think implicity, I was doing the same for myself in regards to my weight.
I think I have a great support network. My family is supportive, my roommate is there for me, I have great coworkers, and my cat will be happy so long as I keep giving him lots of attention! LOL