So I finally realized I've put my body, image, and health through hell. I've decided the only thing that can help is the band. I've tried diets and gyms, and they worked,but I always gained double the weight back. So How did everyone tell their co-workers and family that they decided to have the surgery? I think because I'm only 23 (turning this week) I think everyone is going to think this is mainly cosmetic and wont take me serious. How did everyone else manage negativity?

Thanks

Jessica

I didn't tell anyone, why should you have to? The weight loss isn't as fast (usually) as bypass so you can get away with saying that you've made some lifestyle changes and are eating better to lose weight and get healthy. That's what I've said, no one has questioned it at all.

There are lots of threads that debate the wisdom of telling/not telling. I'm in the 'not telling' camp and I'm really glad I did! I told my kids, my DH and 2 very discreet, trustworthy friends.

Terri's right, scroll down tot he bottom of this page and you'll find five more threads about this topic. There should be more insight there.

I didn't keep it a secret from anyone. Everyone that knew was very supportive at least to my face. I am sure there were some people talking about it behind my back but who cares let them talk. I was doing what was best for me.

I'm happy that I only told my husband, kids and sister. For me, I felt that I needed a while to adjust to my new way of eating. Before my fill was right, even my husband would look at what I was eating and say "are you allowed to eat that - aren't you eating too much". Now I eat less with a good fill. I went to support group meetings and used the forums online for positive feedback.

I did not keep it from anyone. I never had anybody be negative about it. I guess I am lucky enough to have great people around me who understood. Im sure they probably worried about my health and everything. But I never asked anybodys opinion either. It was up to me and I really didnt care if someone did not agree or not. It's all about you and how you feel.