Despite losing all this weight, I'm still using my bi-pap machine because my sleep apnea has not resolved. Today I had to make a run to the office of the company that services my bi-pap machine for supplies. While there, I talked to the tech (Mary) who handles my case and she asked me about the pain level and complication rates of the sleeve. Since this gal is tiny, I was curious about why she was asking these questions and she took me deep into the office to meet one of her co-workers, who I'll call Jane.

Jane is about 300 pounds, in her mid-30's and has been researching WLS, including both the band and the sleeve. Mary asked me to talk to Jane about my surgery and I was really happy that I keep before and after photos on my phone. I was able to answer quite a few questions for Jane, and for a couple of other ladies in the office. One of the other ladies in there made the comment that I've lost her entire body weight...and then she told Jane that WLS is a drastic step "just to lose some weight". I spoke up and said, "Yeah, it's drastic. It's also life-saving". Mary backed me up on how sad, sick, and dejected I was before my sleeve. None of them could deny that I am happier, more willing to talk to strangers and much more energetic now that I was pre-op.

I don't know if Jane will look into VSG, but I gave her my phone number, my doctor's phone number, his website, and directions to VST (here!). Mary, the tech, told me that she mentions me often to people who she thinks would benefit from WLS because she's seen my progress over the last 15 months. Strangely enough, I don't mind that she tells people about my story. IMO, if I inspire one person to create a new life for themselves, then it's worth it for people to talk about me.

I felt like a million bucks being able to tell Jane my story...and that Mary felt my story was important and special enough to drag me in to see her friend.

Lissa, it is great to be able to inspire others...

You look fantastic and happy by the way!!!

Thanks, Aussiegirl!

I don't keep mine a secret either. I know there are alot of people that think it's an easy way out, but I know many people that have had it and it's not easy. You have to work just as hard as you did before hand, but that portion control is key and that's why I'm getting it done. If people want to judge me, that's their problem. Hope I have as much success as you did. Thanks for your honesty and support of others.

Ya, I like telling folks about it if the situation is right. I am not at all ashamed of getting sleeved and I am glad to share if the hearers aren't jerks. Trolls exist not only on forums and I hate to feed em.

You know, when you are blessed by something or someone you get an itch to tell folks. I guess it's a missionary complex.

Way to go, Lissa.

Lissa that is great!!! I love telling people what a great decision I feel like I made. And I will always keep my before and after pics on my phone.

bravo to you lisa.

i am an opener-sleever, i posted on facebook the day i started my pre-op diet - by this time, everyone in my family, close friends, and some co-workers knew. i voiced my reasons, my hopes and fears and stepped back to see the reaction - and it was and has been amazing. my friends are super supportive and i am only 8 days out. i just figured in these days of social media, there is no way that people wont see the changes my body will go through. i am proud of myself for making this decision. its not easy - and its a lifelong commitment, but if this sleeve gives me a better quality of life not only for myself but for my family it will all be so worth it! sleevers are bad-asses! LOL

I started to take WLS serious after someone spoke to my mom about there experience. I had thought about surgery for a while but never took any steps or talked to my family about it. My mom came home talking about how well this lady she met was doing and the next week i went to my surgeons information seminar. It is the best thing i ever did and i love telling people about my surgery and how much i have lost and how much better i feel.

I agree I am so open about being sleeved in a wk Im sure my friends and family are sick of hearing about it LOL I dont think thats the case, but I dont care who knows and I hope that one day my story is able to help someone else some day make the same decisions I have made to make me a happier, healthier ME!

I agree... it's good to share your story. So many people are so misinformed about this surgery. If my decision inspires others then it really was well worth it!