Hi to my new friends! I happened upon this site last night, and I look forward to some engaging conversations.

I am a mom who has just had sleeve surgery on 6/9/11. I spent 3 days at the local hospital Cleveland Clinic in Weston, Florida, which was quite comfortable, and the surgeon (Dr. Rosenthal) and staff were wonderful. I heard from 5 different members of hospital staff that they thought me to be "small" for this operation.. I had never heard that personal description in my life, so that took me by surprise! I was a size 16 Pre-Op, with a BMI of 39.999.

I am now at home recouping until next week, and then I head back to work, on my hopefully Phase III diet. However, I am stressing about staying on this protein shake diet for another 8 days ..yes, I am counting down the days I think I can handle some more robust liquids (soups), but I guess I should not jump the gun.

Anyway, there is no turning back now- I look forward to a healthy, happy life, when I can finally feel free on a soccer field, and not be restricted by my size/weight.

My close friends have told me that I should have tried the "natural" way to lose weight first, but of COURSE I have tried that, but to no avail.. Easier said than done, right?

Looking forward to chatting with you all! Thanks in advance

Agree- people don't realize how hard it is to lose weight the natural way unless they are fighting weight issues themselves. Good luck to you as you continue on this journey! The sleeve really is fabulous!

Hey Soccer, I was told that the sleeve just puts us on even footing with the rest of the world. We still have to do the work. Good luck and welcome to the rest of your life, enjoy!!

Welcome!

You'll find there are many people here who had a fairly low BMI at operation time. Mine was over 40 when I was accepted in Kaiser Fremont Bariatric program but around 35 the day I had the operation (Kaiser Fremont patients follow a 1200 calorie per day diet during the pre-op period).

I've had people comment on my lower weight too. I just tell them thanks! I carry my weight well, but I'm looking forward to being a healthier weight and after years of struggle, I knew I needed help to get there.

Lynda