Hi, my name is Julia, I am 30 years old and from the Buffalo, NY area. I have been contemplating WLS for a year or more but finally took the first steps a few months ago. I, at first, had settled on the lapband, but after going to my seminar and hearing about the gastric sleeve, my husband and I decided together that that was the better choice for me.

I have been struggling with my weight for over 10 years, dieting on and off for most of that time, losing the weight and gaining it back, but my weight gain escalated when I got pregnant with my daughter. I was already overweight, but then added an additional 40 lbs on top of my 175. I had complications with gestational diabetes that required insulin injections. I was told that if I want to have another child, I will have to lose a significant amount of weight to help my chances of not having it again. I would like one more child and I just don't feel that going through that again is an option!

I have not been able to successfully lose the weight for any extended period of time since then. I am now at 206 lbs and 5'0 with a BMI of 41. I just had my first appointment and have started the South Beach diet (have lost 6 lbs since my initial weigh in thanks to the stomach flu). I have my psych eval next week and have to have my EGD and sleep study. Once those are done I will be able to have my appointment with the surgeon.

I am very excited to finally have taken the first steps in my journey to being healthy and look forward to getting to know everyone!

Thanks!

Congratulations on taking control of your health! Wishing you smooth sailing!

Welcome!!!