Just a quick note from the UK - a 6'3'', 315 pounder awaiting a date for surgery.

I have to say - it feels a bit weird at my height and weight feeling so terrified about what lies ahead - but like a lot of you here, I'm doing this for my kids...so brave face Ben...brave face!

Do I tell people? No it's embarrassing! I'm admitting failure! No I'm not, I'm accepting help on teh way to a healthier me. I'm being reborn! Will I wake up from the operation? Oh no - what's this about mortality rates?! All the things that I imagine everyone went through or is going through. Soooo many emotions to be had in such a short time!

Nice to see so many inspirational stories happening on this site - and wonderful before and after successes and picture. I stand amazed that I have managed to avoid the camera for most of my adult life due to the shame I have in my body and all I could find are my acting headshots (which were reluctantly allowed - the painful shame of a shy actor!). I'll be sure to dig out less flattering ones when I can.

So - hello to everyone and watch this space...

Ben

Welcome and I hope you have your date soon. Your fears are normal and are normally unfounded! Hope you find your experience as great as I have found mine to be!

Thanks RestlessMonkey!

Oh my. The date has come through - 27th Feb. Now it's a little bit real!

I wonder if the surgeon will cut out this damn plague of over excitable, rather large butterlies that have just hatched in my stomach...?