I'm going for my first appointment after seminar. I'm determined to do this but scared to death of the unknown. I'm doing this for myself and I have two kids I want to live a long healthy life for. My main fear is the what ifs...will I regret this? Will it cause me more health problems now or in future? Any feed back would be great! And how do I upload a pic? Thanks Amber

Sorry I can't help with the photo upload, but I can tell you that this isn't a decision to take lightly. I have fleeting moments of regret when I want to scarf a bowl of pasta...but then I remember that it was exactly that behaviour that led me to obesity. Overall I love my sleeve, but it has taken me a couple of months to get to that point. I didn't have any complications, just a bit of reflux, but you do need to get your head around the fact that your eating habits will change FOREVER! This isn't just a quick fix "I'll lose weight then go back to normal" type "diet" - it is forever removing 80% of your stomach. When you REALLY understand all of that and accept it, you're ready for your new life - a new Wonderful life.

It certainly can seem like a daunting task to take on, but the more you educate yourself and understand exactly what will happen and what your life will be like after the sleeve, it makes it a heck of a lot easier. These forums are an amazing resource and really helped me get the right mind set of getting ready to go through surgery and a realistic expectation of what happens after.

Thank you both for the input! I'm ready for the new life obstacles and all. I want to be here for my kids and w risk of surgery I have a greater risk as I am now if I don't do this. Thanks again! Very helpful!