I've been reading the posts for a few weeks now and even adding my 2 cents now and then but haven't said much about how I got here. At almost 60 years of age I have tried a lot of different strategies to lose weight. I was a chubby child and was closest to a normal weight for the first time when I was in college. After that it's been a yo-yo. My most recent "success" was about 14 years ago when I lost 100 lbs and have gained all that back plus 25 more. The turning point came when the youngest of my 4 grandkids asked if I was pregnant because my belly stuck out so far over my lap; now that knocked the wind out of my sails. So as I struggled with diabetes, high blood pressure, bad knees and other medical problems I realized that I could have a whole lot of good life ahead of me.

Today was my pre-op educational seminar at the hospital. Friday is the last of the hospital paperwork and surgery is set for Monday morning. Now that I'm so close I'm getting a bit nervous about all the upcoming changes. I am lucky to have great support from family. I'm even managing the 2 week, all liquid diet without too much trouble though I haven't pee'd this much since I was pregnant. One of my greatest challenges is the exercise. I've started walking but the heat wave in the East put a real crimp in that for several days. But, for the first time in my life, I missed getting out for my evening walks. Maybe there is hope for my succeeding.

Well, good luck to everyone else who has undertaken this journey and it is great to know that you are out there ready to answer my questions, listen to my gripes, and share my small steps forward.

Welcome to the forum! This is an excellent place to ask your questions and vent your frustrations. Everyone here is very helpful. You will be amazed at how similar our stories and experiences are.

Sending you hugs, prayers and best wishes for your surgery (and recovery). It is an AMAZING ride.

Welcome to the forums! You'll do great on Monday.

I agree, it's so hot outside that it's hard to get a walk in. However, what I have been doing is walking in place while watching TV. It does help - and then I have the air conditioning. I absolutely HATE malls - so I don't go to them. I have walked around stores before - usually when I am shopping, I'll just add in some extra walking around to get the exercise in.

Welcome Ruby...You are going to do fine! Please touch base and keep us updated.

Ask anything you like here, there is a ton of information at your fingertips!

Best of luck!

Susan