Hello everyone,

I am wondering how many of you have been open vs private about having the gastric sleeve surgery? I've had mixed feelings on this topic and for the longest time I've had the attitude that "It's personal and nobody's business but my own." I had surgery a year ago and I only told my immediate family. They were extremely supportive, and they were glad I was doing something to improve my physical and mental health. At the time of surgery, I was having a hard time dealing with my emotions, and I was ashamed of myself that I even needed to have surgery. I have lost 100 pounds, and I have confidence that I have never had before. I've had a change in heart and I feel that my story could help other people. I feel that I am finally emotionally ready to share my story with others and be open about my weight loss journey. In the past when people have told me "You look great! How have you lost so much weight?" I responded by saying, I have been eating small portions, more Protein, and I have been exercising. I understand this is only half of the truth. Some of my family have told me that I shouldn't tell people the truth about my weight loss because "I've already lied to too many people." However, I feel people will be understanding of my reasoning for not sharing this information with people until now. I could really use some words of encouragement and advise. I look forward to hearing everyone's input!

Thank you!

I have only told my Mom, none of my friends or coworkes. They all think i am just havng a hernia opp.

I am an open book and have told everybody and anybody that I was having weight loss surgery and have asked for support.

I feel like honesty is the best policy - everyone who knows me knows what you see is what you get. I do have a few pat answers when anyone says something negative. I say: "I really need support, not negativity" and that shuts them up every time.

One bright spot of being open - as a get well gift, lots of my coworkers got me a gift card bouquet with gift cards for me to use when I am losing weight and need to buy new clothes! Ended up being over $300 worth of cards to places like Kohl's and Maurice's. So sweet!

I guess I would say that you would be surprised at the support you can get when you reach out for it. This surgery can be difficult at times. I need all the encouragement I can get. (I'm also surprised at how many people at work have had weight loss surgery and did not share it with anyone until I opened up about it.)

If you're hesitant to share with people around you, think about attending a post op support group. It's a great way to feel comfortable and normal and you can be around other people who truly understand what you are going through. At my group, we trade recipes, offer suggestions when others are struggling, and even have a clothes swap once a month. It's made a big difference for me to be prepared for the surgery, ask questions about my concerns, and get some solutions to common struggles.