Eager to learn from you all...

[Sister CoCo]

"The surgery" has been approved and now I have less than 2 months before my life is changed forever. I am grateful for any guidance you can give me during this journey to a new, healthier life. As many of you would agree this is the final destination and we are getting off the train of multiple diet plans, thousands of dollars spent and many tears shed only to fail to achieve our goal. Thank you in advance for your advice and support. I need your input.

[AnnieG]

Welcome! And what a great decision you've come to. This is a great support site. Use the search for specific topics you have questions on, and be specific in your questions when you post. Someone has probably walked before you on this!

You'll be so tickled with the wonderful tool and your life changes.

[KiwiGal]

Welcome.
This surgery is indeed life changing - for the better.
I'm just over 1 year out and have never been happier, healthier or had more energy. I love my new life.
There are lots of wonderful people here only too willing to share their experiences and offer advice so please ask any questions that you may have.
To start I would say follow your surgeons instructions to a tee. Remember that the surgery is a wonderful tool but you will need to put some work in too.
All the best!

[Sister CoCo]

Thank you so very much for taking the time to reply and welcome me. I have many people in my life telling me I'm making the wrong decision. I have tried not to talk about it with those I dont have to anymore. Did you have people in your life telling you this as well? Congrats on your success and looking forward to communicating again.
Jaime

[Sister CoCo]

Thank you, Lisa for your very kind reply. Im nervous and hope Im making the right decision. I have young children and a supportive husband but I also have many others in my life that are telling me "you will just gain it back". I have mounting health issues that are weight related and I refuse to give up. I appreciate your outreach.
Jaime

[KiwiGal]

Hi Jaime
Besides my partner I only told my 3 besties who I knew would support my decision. I did not need any negative comments while I was sorting my head out. I was 100% sure that this was what I wanted to do (I'd done lots of research) but it still took some time (months!) before I felt comfortable sharing what I had done with anyone. There are still people who I will never tell! To those people if/when they ask I just say that have taken control of my life and am eating less and exercising more. All of which is true.
You won't gain the weight back AS LONG as you follow the plan. You have to put some effort into it. It is a tool not a miracle. Having said that it has been no hardship for me to lose and maintain weight. I feel so much more alive than I ever have before.
It's totally normal to feel nervous. I guess I was more excited actually. You and your children and husband are going to love the new you.
Glad that you are not giving up. You deserve this!

[Christie13]

Welcome Coco!! Congrats on having a date. Just read as much as you can between now and then. The more you know, the smoother things will be. Whenever you need advice, reach out on here. You will get more than you can handle.

[Sister CoCo]

Thank you Lisa for your encouraging words. I need them. I wish I would have never told the women I work with but I really didn't have a choice. I work in dentistry and will be getting a lot of comments as I lose weight. I will your use your reply about eating right and exercising more. I sure don't want to bring attention to myself. I have lived thin before and I know people will treat me different. I love those who have loved me and accepted me heavy. What is one of your favorite things to eat on the run. Im not home much therefore I need ideas for on the road eating. Thank you!!!
Jaime

[sraebaer]

Welcome! This surgery is the best thing EVER! I never could have even imagined being healthy and regular-sized, but it happened, and quickly. Enjoy! If you have specific questions, ask away.

[Sister CoCo]

Hi. Thank you for your reply and support! I am sure I will have lots of questions for you.