I just created my profile, but have been visiting and reading your stories for about 4 months!

I am getting so excited and nervous! I am looking at Gastric Sleeve Surgery in early January. ( I could do it in December, but I need to visit my mother, who is in very poor health). I started this journey on August 14. I had a long checklist that I had to get through, and some things really slowed the process down. I have to say that this site lifted my spirits time after time and kept me on course. I have been overweight my whole life of course, I have lost and gained weight more times than I can count. I lost 80# at one time, I know I can lose, I just can't keep it off. My mom and dad are sick...all the scary stuff, they have it. Stroke, diabetes, high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, heart disease and both are now in renal failure on dialysis. Its a poor quality of life. I know is my future, if I don't do something. I am in my 40's and have two boys, six years old and eleven. I need to be here for a long time and I don't want to just be here, I need to be healthy. Since August 14 I have lost 27lbs on my own. I am hoping starting to lose now will help me have a smooth recovery. I feel that this is it, I am making a life long change. I want to thank you all for sharing your stories...you all are my motivation and inspiration!!

Welcome! Thanks for sharing your story!

Glad to have you here. Ask anything you want, but be advised that opinions and tact may vary. I am sorry to hear about your folks. I know that there are a number of us on the forum who face that same dilemma about following in their parent's poor health footsteps. I wish you good luck and good health. Please keep hanging out with us and let us know how your journey goes.

@@Doingitformeandmyloves Welcome! I do travel nursing and I specialize in dialysis! Your right if you can avoid it, do it! Best of luck to you and your parents!

Welcome! Congrats on your surgery plan.

Welcome!!! Good job on the already lost weight, and ask anything - we've all been through so much together on here! I hope all goes well visiting your mom, and keep your eyes on the prize! January will be here in no time

You are absolutely correct in that the more weight you can lose now, the better it

will be for you during surgery. I am 6 days out and have no regrets whatsoever. You will find a lot of information and support here. Welcome.