Yazoo71

Of course, as much as I can. I had been researching weight loss surgery for about 5 years before talking to my doctor. He didn't have much information and was not fond of the idea, mainly because I don't think he knew of any patients or very limited few who had had it done. Anyway, reluctantly - he referred me to a local bariatric center and I signed up for the monthly informational seminar. I soon began the process of the 6 month requirements set by my insurance. So... I KNEW I would lose weight, I KNEW that I would get off at least some of my meds and I KNEW this could greatly extend my life. Honestly, had I not had this and with the weight and yearly gain... I don't think I'd be around another 10 years. I KNEW that it was a permanent restriction. It's all the things along the way once you've had the surgery that hit me unexpectedly, not in a bad way. I didn't realize how determined I could and would be. I didn't realize the growing confidence and how that would make me feel. When I say confidence, I don't mean ego... it's, for me... at first anyway, a feeling of deeper worth. The feeling of..."YES, I am doing this and I CAN DO THIS." It was a subtlety that others might not have even noticed but I did... and it was a fiercely powerful feeling, even if it wasn't roaring. If that makes any sense. It's all the moment that made and make up the journey. Starting at walking around the block and being winded to walking 26 miles eventually... not because I had to but because I could. It's hiking... actually with friends and not only keeping up but sometimes leading the way. Before, I stopped going with others because I felt as though I held them back and that made me feel very self conscious and guilty. It's seeing and feeling my body change. Each time I would have to get new clothes... I still automaticall walk to the big/tall mens and then I find my way to my regular sizes. When I get clothes now... I still think, "Damn, these look like kids clothes."... it's the wonderment of going through a second adolescents in may way. And ego does creep in a bit... which isn't always bad. I hadn't felt sexy ... maybe ever. I actually feel sexy at times... and it breaks my brain. LOL There are so many things tiny and large but all profound along the way... and those are the things that have really hit home. Its hard to explain but hope that makes a bit more sense.

Hey there, Simon66. I think that if you go through with this procedure, you really need to do it for yourself. If a guy is going to judge you on how you look or expect you to change to fit some mold that he finds attractive - that's totally HIS issue. You are worthy and deserve more than that... don't settle and don't sell yourself short. I don't mean that to sound preachy at all, just saying no guy is worth jumping over hoops for. The right guy will love you for your heart... and yes, there has to be attraction and everyone is attracted to different things. I've had guys who didn't give me the time of day when I was 350 pound who now try to talk to me... on the flip side - I've had bears who found me hot then a bit dismal now. And ya know, that's fine. lol I, personally, had this surgery done for health reasons and for the fact that I want to be around as long as possible. I am down to the low 190s and I feel amazing. I have a confidence in myself that I wasn't expecting. I find the biggest changes and epiphanies are all the things that weren't on my radar when I began this journey. Since surgery, I've been taken off all my meds (8) and have plenty of energy. Yes, there is a little extra skin but it doesn't bother me at this time... and perhaps in the future, I may choose to do something about it. But if I do, I'll do it for me. I think I'd rather get some new clothes or save for a car tho... lol. I also had a rounded and full face... I still look younger than my 47 years but yes, I do notice a difference but again, no complaints. I guess the bottom line when I think of it is... it's all gonna fade in time. It wasn't the reason for me. I had been on diets for 30 years... and like you, I would lose a good amount of weight and then turn around and put it back on and then some. I needed a permanent restriction. This has worked for me so far. This is not an easy thing... if you do this, make sure it's for the right reasons. There is no going back and it is a life changing thing. I don't regret it for a moment and would do it a thousand times over. I have my life back. Someone WILL like you regardless... you just have to be patient until you meet. My advice is... focus on you. What makes YOU happy, what YOU want to manifest and when people see you doing that... see you happy in your skin... that is sexy. That will catch the lucky guys eye and he will be lucky to get to know you. Don't settle. Do your thing... everything else will fall into place. Jon

Can't believe how quickly this year is flying by. It's finally starting to warm up and am enjoying getting out for hikes and walks. Camping week next month and I can't wait. This was the best decision of my life and the only regret I have is not having done it sooner. Hope everyone's doin well and having a great weekend !

Hope you get the approval quickly.

Thank you, defibvt.

Thank you, much appreciated. It's been an exciting ride so far. In the time I took care of the pre op requirements, I was able to research and ask many questions. I am not the most patient guy but I have to admit, I really am grateful for the time I had to prepare and educate myself a bit more on the surgery. Hope you're doin well and again, thank you.

Hey, all. Just got my surgery date this week... next Monday the 12th is the big day. I am very excited and looking forward to the new phase of this journey. Jon