I picked up a prescription last night and the pharmacist came around the counter and while I was paying for my meds, mentioned to me that she noticed a significant weight loss and asked if I was losing weight as part of a healthy lifestyle or if I was ill. I was a little surprised at her directness but realized as a pharmacist, she was just getting to point of her observation and not thinking about how it sounded.

For whatever reason, this was a first for me...having a 'medical professional' question my weight loss who wasn't directly seeing me as a patient. I wonder just how many other folks I interact with are thinking the same thing but not saying anything as they know it's not acceptable to question something considered so personal.

Maybe I need to have a tee shirt made up that says, 'I'm fine, thank you very much'.

I got so fed up at work (a school), even when I was still big, that I posted a notice in the staff room board saying

Thank you all for your interest. It is really nice to know people care and are concerned about my health. I am losing weight under the supervision of my doctor and

I am not bulimic.

I am not anorexic.

I am still medically described as obese.

I am still large enough to be at risk of weight related complaints.

I eat a very healthy diet because I am constantly aware of nutrition.

In fact, I am the healthiest I have been for twenty years.

..and yesterday, a neighbor was outside and saw me coming home from the Y. I stopped to chat with him a bit and he said that I was very inspiring to him. I thanked him but felt awkward...I don't take compliments all that well...probably just because I'm not used to them. But these comments are telling me that everyone...and I mean everyone, is aware of my transformation. Even people who are peripheral in my life but who see me on a regular basis.

Liz you have to admit that losing 154 lbs is monumental. I am sure if people knew you before it would be alarming to see that big of a transformation. I would be happy that people care enough to ask. I have seen a few people lately that had not seen me since my lapband and they were surprised at my appearance. but, I doubt anyone thinks I am sick.