(Repost from another board--I wasn't sure which was the best place to post!)

Hello!
I'm new to the community and wanted to take a moment to introduce myself.

I had my WLS consultation yesterday, and have decided to pursue the gastric sleeve. I am fortunate that I have already gotten insurance approval, and upon completion of all of my pre-op tests/obligations, should be able to schedule surgery for sometime in the next 4-6 weeks.

I've struggled with my weight my whole life, and am ready to get a handle on it. My BMI is currently 41. I'm a married mom of 2 young girls, and it is so important to me that they see me as a role model for a healthy lifestyle. Now is the time for me to get this under control. I'm anxious, but very excited about what my future holds.

I'm looking forward to getting to know you all, and finding support here!

Some questions I've thought of--if any of you have an insight, I'd love to hear it:

-My FIL had gastric bypass several years back, and ended up with quite an alcohol problem afterwards (he is now going to AA and doing much better). This is one of my husband's main concerns for me about getting surgery--trading one addiction for another. I'm not a big drinker, so I don't see alcohol as being problematic--in fact, I plan to give it up entirely for the forseeable future, but perhaps shopping, or something else that could replace food in my life, is his concern.

-I'd like to try and keep my surgery journey private for the time being. I'm worried about how to respond when people start noticing my weight. I have some ideas, but feel like I'll crack and tell people, then wish I hadn't.

-I'm a straw drinker. I guzzle drinks quickly and am going to have to learn to sip. But I'll admit that I'm already in mourning over the loss of my straw. Is this forever?

-I'm a Diet Coke addict. I look forward to breaking free of the hold it has over me (man, that sounds absurd--but it is true!) But I'll admit I'm mourning idea of that loss too. I'd like to think maybe someday I could have one occasionally (my surgeon seemed ok with moderate amounts of carbonated beverages after 6 mo out). But maybe it's time to cut the cord permanently.

-I am afraid of the hair loss. My surgeon said its pretty inevitable, but should be temporary. My hair's pretty fine & thin anyway, so it concerns me. I'm hoping I'm able to keep it a minimum.

Ok, I'm just rambling now. Thanks for taking the time to read this! I look forward to getting to know you all!

Welcome on this journey, its not easy but its well worth it.

Welcome Happy! One thing to keep in mind and what might help your husband understand better, is that surgery is just a tool. Mentally you may still want to eat but physically you cant, which is the tool. You will still have to work through any addictions you feel you have. I am 2 wks out of surgery so this is still new but you will find your main focus is trying to get all your Protein and Water in and there just isn't room for anything additional. Thats where I am right now. As for the straw, that does two things: makes you take in air which will fill your small stomach up and makes you drink fast which you physically wont be able to do. It will feel like its stuck at the bottom of your esophagus. The part of your stomach that they remove contains what makes your esophagus relax which is why we have to eat and drink slow. I have actually been learning to knit while I recuperate. Keeps the mind and hands busy

Hope that helps a bit.

Blessings!