Just joined this forum today. I am a 49 yr old female in Tennessee who has been overweight for 40 years. I am married with two boys and my whole family is very supportive of my decision to lose weight. I will have my sleeve surgery in 8 days at Vanderbilt. I am 5'2" and my starting weight was 327 - I currently weigh 289. I would love to be in the 130-140 range.

The entire process has been very smooth because Vanderbilt is extemely organized with support groups, packets of information and capabilities to email your doctor with questions. I started the process in June and my insurance companye required me to lose 10% - this was the hardest part. However, I found that drinking high protein, low carb drinks was a big help in curbing my appetite.

I have had several things that have helped me decide to do this. For one thing, I have not been able to sleep in a bed for several years and must sleep propped up with pillows. I can no longer get up and down off the floor and one day slipped -- I lay there prone like a beached whale while my husband tried to figure out how to get me up. I cant acompany my kids on field trips because I cannot walk long distances = in fact I cant do much of anything with them because I am too tired and fat. Also I poop out after a few hours and require a nap.

So here are some of the things I have on my to do list:

- sleep in a bed

- ride a bicycle

- wear pretty shoes

- learn to play the piano - ok I know this one does not have to do with weight but I want to learn anyway!

Best of luck to everyone

Mrs. Page

Welcome. Congrats on your upcoming surgery. You will soon do all those things on your list...and more!

good luck to you in your journey and your upcoming surgery my daughter is 2 years old and i too have a hard time keeping up with her. i want to be around for her strong and energetic. i am getting sleeved november 6th the day after my 26th birthday!!! im ecstatic and so ready for the life change this forum is AMAZING and wonderful support. i also downloaded the app which im up on until 2am every night lmao. well ALmost. you will find tons of amazing people with knowledge and insight to help you here. welcome!!!!