So, I am new to the vertical sleeve community, new to the world of blogging, and new to support groups in general. In my weight loss journey my greatest challenge has been coping with a lack of family support. Not blaming others, just frustrated with the resistance that I receive. I should have sought support from a community such as this a long time ago; perhaps this journey would have been a bit less bumpy, no pun intended . In an effort to make behavior change, here I am. My surgery is scheduled for July 2, 2013 and I am very excited, scared, and hopeful. I am having it done with Dr. Onopochencko and am so far very impressed with his presence, experience, and patient satisfaction. I am 35 yo, 5'2, and weigh 265 lbs - can't believe I just put this information online!!!! Not sure what else to say; think this is a good start for me... thanks for being here!

As far as family support goes, for me it has not all been positive either. But I understand the negative input comes from a place of concern for my well being. I know that the "Nonsupporters" care for and love me and are just worried about my well being, and maybe yours are as well. I am not trying to negate how you feel about the lack of support your getting but just offering another prospective. I am a very vocal person myself and have trouble holding back when it comes to verbalizing my thoughts and feeling for those I care for. So when it's my turn on the hot seat I am open to listening the opinions of those that are coming from a place of genuine care and concern for me. Although it has not changed my mind about going through with the procedure. I get where there coming from and respectfully afford them the right to be heard. I'm not suggesting you change your mind or not change your mind about going through with this but hopefully helping you to be at peace with it and with those who love and care about you.

Thank you for sharing your perspective. I wish they had an opinion, or voiced their concerns. Actually, I think that is the problem; instead of stating how they feel they are saying things like, "why don't you just go to a gym"? As if I've never considered or tried this. I've had to realize that I have been thinking about this for years and they seem to think I woke up today and thought hey, I'll have major surgery and change my life forever without any thought or consideration. Like many dysfunctional relationships the problem existed before I brought up the surgery; my decision has just put a spotlight on it. On the positive side, changing my focus to the supportive people has really helped; instead of trying to convince those who aren't. thanks again, really helpful to talk this through

Thanks ladies!!! So far so good. I will be finished my insurance req june 18th. Hopefully they will give me a date at my next appt.

Glad to hear you do have positive support. Good luck Sleeve Sista. ????