Hi guys! My name is Daniel and I've struggled for years with my weight and also my addiction to fast food. I'm 5'6 and at my heaviest 290 but go down to 275 at times. Seems that's my limit these days. I'm nervous about the whole process and the surgery itself. It doesn't help when I tell people close to me that I'm going to get the surgery (going with the sleeve) and they always say...well can't you just eat better and exercise more and horror stories about how they know someone who knows someone who has died from gastric surgery. I know in my heart that I want this because I'm tired of being the guy who can't do this or that because my back hurts after walking for a while or just wanting to lay on the couch and watch tv instead of going out with friends. I'm done with it. I'm just nervous I'll fail and not be able to keep to the new way of life. Im looking for new friends going through similar issues and who will support me in my journey. I'm excited to be a new me!!!

Congrats on your journey! You have to do this for you. You can't worry about what others think. It is your life, live it.

Congratulations on your decision! I know what you mean about someone knowing someone who knew someone's cousin that died from the surgery lol....I ignore those people...unfortunately other people don't understand the world we live in and what it's like not to be able to just eat better and excercise if we could do that why would we go to these extreme measures?! You have a great support around you here on this site! Good luck! I've recently started as well and like you I'm excited to meet the new me at the end!!

Thats why ive told very few people of my plans.. Too many judgemental jerks.. Obviously if i could just eat right and exercise and the weight came off...I WOULD DO THAT! They usually dont understand because theyve never been in our shoes. Just stay positive and keep your eye on the prize. A new, healthier you. Youre doing this for your health and nobody elses.

Thanks guys!!! I'm looking forward to the journey and a new chapter in my life. It's going to be a long journey but well worth it in the end!!!

Daniel/Ethomas.....Good luck as you start your journey. I was sleeved 4/8/14 so only 6 months out but if I can help in anyway please feel free to reach out. Taking the first step can be the hardest part so you are on your way to a better life!

You sound just like me. Ate fast food everyday weekday for lunch. Worried about having the procedure and having it not work.

I am very satisfied with my results so far. I knew (or at least thought) I could follow the Protein first mantra. Surprisingly, it has been easier than I anticipated.

I have had cravings but a nice 3 ounce portion of protein cures that.

I have been very strict about carbs, under 30 grams a day is my goal. Again, I am surprised how easy it has been to follow that these first 4 months. It may become more difficult but I feel that I am getting into a good routine and creating better habits.

I'm so happy to hear that. I'm a carbs freak. I love bread and potatoes so I think the Protein first mantra might be a tough one for me too.

I made my first appointment to start the process (attended the seminar last week!) It's still a month out but I'm hoping that it all goes smoothly and quickly. I don't smoke but I do dip tobacco so that is another hurdle I'm about to tackle because I understand you have to be nicotine free for at least 6 weeks prior to surgery. Yikes! I know I can do it but I just have to start. Scary but sooooo worth it I truly believe.

I'm finding this forum to be very helpful and everyone is so nice and supportive. I hope to find a group locally to participate in and get really involved in that part of it because it's hard to lean on friends and family that don't understand our struggle. Thank you all so much!

@@nymetzfan11, i admire your courage. Always look at the facts. The national mortality rate for bariatric surgery in the US is impressive, especially when compared to "routine" surgeries like appendix and gallbladder removal.

The vertical sleeve gastrectomy is a powerful tool to help you become a healthier person. It's a real game changer.

Like others have mentioned, this wont cure your'e cravings or magically help you control your emotions regarding food. However, it is important to know how the sleeve works and helps. I thought it was cool to learn that hunger hormones resided in the portion of the stomach that is removed.

Good luck on your journey!

Thanks VSGPapi...I admire you courage as well. Looks like you've just begun your journey and are on your way to the new you! I'm excited for you and we are all here to help you if/when you need it! Yes, i've done lots and lots of research (my head hurts from reading..LOL) but I know i've made the right decision and am ready to make the changes needed to be successful...it's all over but the waiting at this point!

Congrats on making the decision! I'm in the same boat with ya, bud. Made the decision to have the surgery just this week. I have not been the least bit shy about letting folks know and BOY do they let me know what they think real fast. But in the end I'm doing this for me, so I just smile and walk on. Good luck for both of us on our journeys!

Congrats Shace & nymetzfan! I was unsure too at first. It is definitely the best investment I've made in my self. Had Sleeve 9/16 and down 64 lbs. It was rough in the beginning, but thanks to the guys here it really helped! (Special recognition to Recycled who tossed me a snickers so I could snap back from turning into Betty White durning the liquid diet!!! ).

Advise is make sure you follow your nutrition requirements...especially the vitamins! I didn't and ended up in Emergency getting IV fluids at 4 weeks post op. I take a little Iron on the side of my other Vitamins and now I'm feeling much better.

Welcome aboard!!!!