If you could offer one piece of advice to someone like myself. Just starting out on this journey what would it be?

Be patient! The entire process takes time but it is so worth the end result. There are times when just jumping through all the hoops required seem insurmountable but they are not.

I would do it again in a heart beat!

Be gentle to yourself and those that don't understand. Don't get discourage when there are hoops to jump through. Ask questions, lots and lots of questions. It is normal to be scared, to have doubts, to worry or be emotional. Be committed to your success and most importantly know that this decision while isn't an easy one is the best.

If you could offer one piece of advice to someone like myself. Just starting out on this journey what would it be?

Know your insurance, what's covered and your out of pocket costs. I see so many commit their hearts to this not realizing financially it may not be possible if costs are to high. And then they are devastated.

Learn as much as you can about all aspects of your decision. Take notes, read, ask questions, and read some more.

Do your research - the three types of WLS and why and why not to get each of them as well as the pros and cons, the surgeons, the hospital where you'll have surgery at, your insurance, the requirements, each phase of your journey from first meeting to post-op diet. Get to know everything about this intimately - this is a big decision and you should learn everything you can about it.

Really understand how much this is going to change your life before you take the plunge. Research until you could teach a class in weight loss surgery blindfolded. Keep a journal, preferably video. Take plenty of before pictures and measurements. Don't have a closed mind on type of procedures coming in. I was set on one but the more I learned over the year of pre op hurdles I had to jump, I decided to switch, based on what was right for me personally. Don't become a slave to the scale after surgery. It'll drive you mad!

Good luck!

Be proactive when it comes to getting your insurance approved. In other words, double check with the insurance company that all tests and forms are completed. Then make sure you have met your surgeon's instructions. I've had to treat getting prepared as a part time job. There is a Lot to learn. Ask questions. Come back to this forum. I think I have learned the most right here.