I'm getting interviewed! Any suggestions?

I got a call today from a reporter from our local newspaper, and she is doing a section devoted to women's health issues. Her main focus is obesity, and she wants to interview me for the article. I think this is so cool, because I get to promote the positive aspects of WLS, and let others know how to go about getting it. Any suggestions on things I should include? I want to make sure I give as thorough information as possible.

If it was me being interviewed I'd be sure to let them know that all insurances are different and have different requirements. I'd also (just being me) promote the daylights outta this site because for me the support here has been invaluable. I can tell ya'll things I don't even tell my hubby because he's never had a weight problem. Weight problems are different for each one of us but if the only people a patient has to talk with have never had a weight problem it can be difficult. Some think we should just shut our mouths and go for a walk.... would be nice but it doesn't work that way and hopefully your interviewer knows that. Good luck, happy speaking, and let us know the outcome! Gayle

What a wonderful opportunity for you! I would be sure to let people know of the inherent risks, both immediate and long-term. They need to be their own health advocates and do the research. They need to understand that this is not an easy fix as some may perceive it to be but rather a life long commitment to a whole new way of eating and living. Good for you! Have fun with it! Best, Maureen

That is really cool! I know you will be a great representative! I would emphasize that this is about health and not cosmetics, and discuss the difficulties that some people have getting insurance to cover the procedure, even though it has been proven to reduce related medical problems, enhance quality of life, and increase life span. This is not a push button cure, but gives obese people a fighting chance to benefit from a healthy eating plan. The only thing that is going to pressure insurance to cover this is public outcry! Be sure to share the article with us! Joy -40 lbs

IF I WERE TO GET INTERVIEWED I WOULD TELL THEM ABOUT NOT HAVING TO TAKE 14 PILLS A DAY AND 2 TO 5 DIABETES SHOTS !! I DID THIS SURGERY BECAUSE OF MY HEALTH PROBLEMS AND I THINK MOST OF US HAVE. SO WHAT IF WE GET SLIM AND BEAUTIFUL IN THE MEAN TIME !! SINCE I QUIT TAKING ALL THAT MEDICINE I'M A NEW PERSON !! GOOD LUCK ON YOUR INTERVIEW. JUDY