Mary I think that would be a wonderful idea!

OK, this may sound a little far fetched but... At the recent mtg. of our wls support group Dr. Harrington ( wls, PS and general surgeon ) was our guest speaker. After his talk he took questions: I asked him what he thought about having a WLS LOTTERY so those who do not have insurance coverage might have a chance to get it. Dr. Harrington said he would be willing to consider it seriously, if we could organize it, to get back with him. Sooooo are any of you gifted in organizational abilities????? This could be such a great way to give back and help out those who are still in the pain and misery of suffering in their Morbid Obesity and Super Morbid Obesity. I would be very willing to work together with anyone who can organize, so this dream could be fulfilled! * Let's take a walk down memory lane...just 15 months ago try 24 months ago ...It was August 2004 and HOT. You were trying to do your shopping and sweat was pouring off of you like a fountain. Everything in your body ached especially your knees and feet. After only taking a few steps you were huffing and puffing and out of breath, scanning around for a chair to sit down in ( IF it would hold you ! ). After getting your groceries you went out into the parking lot and the heat melted you into puddles and by the time you got your things in the car you were totally and completley exhausted. Wiped out and done for the day...but the day wasn't over neither was the humiliation as you struggled to haul your groceries into the house as neighbors watched you in your sweat drenched clothes...wondering ' What's wrong with HER, is she having a heart attack or something???" as you lumbered into your home to collapse. Or do you remember shopping for clothes??? When the only clothes that fit were an embarassingly huge size ( you would never tell even your best friend the size ! ). Nothing was flattering really and one of the most important points in your choice was if it would adequately cover your huge belly or butt or arms or legs? Lost to you was dressing for color and style and fashion and looking into the mirror pleased with your reflection. ( or even looking into a mirror above the neck unless absolutely necessary ) What if we could offer that hope to others... who like us, so badly needed this surgery? Some dreams can come true. What do you think???? Let's open the floor to comments and discussion, Maybe the wonderful Mayers could begin something really BIG ! ...THAT COULD CHANGE LIVES the way we have had our lives changed! Looking forward to hearing your feedback. Hugs, Mary

Hiya Krista, Soon as I saw your post realized I remember YOU ! Your new pic looks Grrreat ! Big difference, Congratulations Sorry this year has been so stressful. Prayers going up for your Mom's healing and you and your family who also need a gift of comfort and peace. Walking thru an illness with a loved one is harder on us than we realize. Wishing you some special time, just for you, doing something you Love. Maybe a bubble bath or a movie or a quiet stroll thru the park...whatever is a peaceful refuge in the storm. You've got alot going on There's a lot of sweeties here who will give ya support No need to go it alone So come on back soon and gather up some hugs, Mary * We recently saw a movie you might enjoy w/Jenna Elfman called "Touched" ( filmed in 2005 ) It was great , Jenna plays a nurse who daily cares for a guy who is in a coma for 2 yrs. and suddenly wakes up and as she continues to care for him they fall in love and...( can't give away the goods ) tho some guys would call it a 'chick flick', guys w/heart like my hubby loved it too.So get out your hanky and get ready for a surprise twist. Tho it's not her usual comedy , rather serious - but she does fabulous!

By the way, Happy Birthday Laurie Hugs and many congratulations We appreciate ya around here Mary

I'd be knocking at your door Mary