I have been on the pre op diet since the end of July and believe me it was not always easy as I was on vacation at my sister's. I have chosen not to tell anyone but my spouse. I am embarrassed and carry a lot of shame for being this heavy. During the pre op diet, I lost 6 pounds and have been second guessing myself as it is a lot of money. I have an accountability partner who is on this board and she and I are both being banded tomorrow but in separate cities and countries.

I knew this would be a tough road. I began by buying a cheap journal and started writing a list of what I want as I lose weight. For example- 1. I want to fit in a little black dress, 2. I want to wear a two piece bathing suit and look good. 3. I want people not to stare at my boobs. 4. i want to ride my horse and not feel like i am breaking her back. Etc, etc. that is a book that stays on me and reminds me why I am doing this.

Before I started the pre op phase, I did my measurements. That was an incredibly depressing day. I have lived in denial and blamed my expansion on aging. Numbers do not lie. I have also had my husband take a front and back pic. I have always hidden from pics. These pictures will remind me and have cemented my decision that this is the right step for me.

I have surgery on Friday at 1030 and have to drive 5 hours back home. I am certainly concerned about not being able to go to work on Monday hoping for a really quick turn around. I have a semi desk job so I am hoping for the best.

You will do great. I would have never been able to go to work the following Monday. You really might want to rethink that. I was banded July 10th and I'm down 34 lbs from the beginning of my preop diet. Good luck.

Good luck Red bird. You sound like you are ready and committed to this journey and I expect you will be very successful and find those goals you've written down will surely come true.