Jim Paulette

Howdy, Friends: I'm in the process of getting approved and I'm finding that I'm catching a lot of grief about not being "fat enough" to get weight loss surgery. I'm 32 years old, 5'6'', 275 lbs, BMI of 44.4 with a sleep apnea diagnosis. I've told a handful of people of my intentions, and I'm finding that these folks are saying "why are you getting surgery? You're not that fat/unhealthy!" My first mental response is "well, you aren't that polite!" but I'd like to be armed with a little bit more data. What's the median BMI for gastric sleevers? Am I really not "fat enough", or can I throw a stat out there showing that I am indeed an ideal candidate for this surgery? Or should I just be telling folks to pound sand and move on? Has anyone else dealt with this?

My wife was initially not supportive, but I more or less decided unilaterally that I was going to get this done. She's (mostly) come around, but she doesn't say much when I bring it up.

I've told my spouse, my parents, my sister, my boss, and a couple of my coworkers. They have by and large have been supportive with a bit of hesitation. I am apparently not "fat enough" to get this surgery, according to some. Ah well.

Definitely a fair point.

I think shows like My 600-lb Life perpetuate the myth that people should only be having weight loss surgery if they can't move. I think that's bologna - I tend to be a data-driven person and I like to throw stats out there to reinforce my position, but I'm having a tough time finding any.

My bariatric center is requiring a best effort of 10% of my body weight.