I have followed a couple discussions about whether we're telling people we are having lapband surgery, who we're telling, and why/why not. Up to this point I have only told my husband and my three closest girlfriends. I live in an active retirement community where I am involved in a lot of activities. I know my losing weight is going to be fodder for some of the busy-bodies around here and I just didn't want to hear their crap about my health care choices. After reading so many other opinions, ones that match my own point of view of secrecy and ones that challenged my senses by being so open about it, I came to the conclusion that I really don't give a hoot what other people think of me having the surgery so why am I trying to guard it like a family secret?

I wrote a short note to my children (6 of them, 20 - 35 yo) telling them I was having surgery on Tuesday just to let them know in the event something tragic and unexpected occurs. Later in the day a casual friend of mine mentioned I looked like I was losing a little weight (apparently she thinks we're closer friends than we are - I would NEVER say that to a casual friend!!) I replied I was on a very strict diet in preparation for lapband surgery (I just had to try this out on someone). She told me I was very brave to tackle my weight issue head on like that; she wished she had the gumption to do more than just talk about going on a diet (yes, she's heavy, too). All of my children wrote me wonderfully supportive notes - like I would have expected any less of them - what was I thinking?!?!?

I know I'm going to hear from the rumor mill in my community that I'm taking the easy way out. I know there are going to be some that are vocal about their disdain for my choice. But it's MY choice, dammit, and I am happy I made the choice. I'm not hiding in the closet hoping no one will ask me how I'm doing it. If they ask, I'll tell. Otherwise, busy-bodies of the world: eat your heart out while I fashion a new look!

I recently "came out" to everyone at work. My boss was the worse...as I expected. He said that there were so many other ways to lose weight and didn't this seem drastic. I told him that my obesity was far more drastic than this surgery. As far as all the other ways to do this...I've tried them all and only.gained weight. I mentioned as well as he tried.to continue that the decision had been made and the date set. Although people mean well...and.sometimes I have to remember that...I'm doing this for me and no one else. I have only extremely.close friends and family on Facebook and my post said this. " Lapband surgery scheduled for May 7th, 2013. Very excited...I can't wait!" Congrats to all of you...your bravery helps me be brave!!