Hello

I need to write an essay for the surgeon as to why I want the surgery and summarize my expectations. Has anyone else had to do this?

If so, would you care to share your essay with me?

I didn't have to write one, but I would probably go through my journey of obesity. I would then write the ways in which I would "work the band" to help me lose weight ("My exercise plan is..." "My diet plan is..."). Depending upon the requested length, I would probably also write a section sharing what I'm looking forward to during and after my weight loss journey (off of meds, fit in an airplane seat, run a marathon, etc).

I'm a fairly good editor and would be happy to edit a draft or two for you if you'd like. Just PM me and we can work it out.

Good grief! It sounds a little odd, but maybe it's the surgeon's way of getting people to focus and really think through if they want the surgery and why, PLUS...lets him know if you have any misinformation.

I say, just write from your heart and be honest! :thumbup:

I didn't have to write an "essay", but I did have to write a letter. Actually, I needed a letter from myself and also two from support people (I selected my husband and my mom). All three had to include things like how long I've had trouble with weight, the problems I've faced because of weight, and why I'm a good candidate for surgery. My husband wrote that it breaks his heart to see my struggle and that he wishes he could give me the sense of fullness that he naturally feels; he also mentioned our primarily healthy lifestyle and that he's willing to give up whatever I'd give up to help me succeed. My mom wrote about my childhood obesity, that teachers would tell her how bright and sweet I was but that I was taunted by cruelty that only children can inflict; she also mentioned that my weight was in the 99th percentile while still on breastmilk alone and that the pediatrician believed I would have lifelong trouble. I wrote about how I understand weight loss from an intellectual perspective but that I can't make it happen because of my perpetual hunger; I also mentioned things that I have already implemented, such as buying a bike and joining a gym, to show the commitment that I have. I would suggest using personal examples from your past and how you plan to overcome obesity by using the band as a tool. I think they want to be sure you understand that it's not magic, that there is work and dedication involved. If your program doesn't require support letters, I would describe what support you have (family and friends). Good luck!

Evil me wonders if you should present him a 10 page tome double spaced, complete with MLA style footnotes. Will he be checking for grammar?

Find another surgeon - this is YOUR decision - not his.

I didn't have to do an essay per se but did have to do a 1 paragraph blurb like that. I think they just want to make sure your expectations are realistic.... that you don't expect to be a super model,or that the surgery will fix your relationship etc.