I AM NOT AFRAID

Hi Karen. I have always been the "chubby" one in the family. I got the fat gene from my dad's side. When I finally had my miracle baby I decided I had to do something. It took 10 years but I can honestly say I've never second-guessed my decision to have this surgery. I'll be turning 42 just 6 days after surgery. I even joked about them just shoving a candle in my sugar free jello. I'm fully determined to be VERY old. I currently have a 97-yr-old great aunt, 91 yr old grandfather and 88 yr old grandmother running around....we have longevity obviously. If I remain at my current weight there's no way I'll live that long. My daughter is my world but I'm doing this for me first. She is 10 and knows all about this. She's even seen an actual video of the surgery. She's very excited and asked 100 questions of the surgeon. She knows I'll be in rough shape for a few days. But, she knows in the long run, I'll be able to ride the rides at the fair. I'll be able to swing on the swings. I'll be able to kick butt playing kickball with her school pals. She's probably more excited about this than I am. I know I'll be fine. My husband is worried. I've had lots of surgeries and I know how well I recover. But, more importantly, I know I'll be around a long, long, LONG time. Blessings to you all!!! * Cyndi *

Cyndi............. I got that "chubby one" identity thing, too!! I was born at 10 lbs even..............the baby of 4 kids. My brother had to watch when he gained a few lbs as he got older, and my sisters did, also..................but all were normal all thru childhood, highschool and early adulthood.................. hmmmmmmmmmmmmm I wonder what that felt like?? LOL I weighed 110 in 4th grade........162 when I grad HS......and have played Yo-Yo ever since with the result growing each time! I also understand the wanting to play and do with your child. I always did..........I pushed myself to do what I didn't feel like doing...............I did the same when my first grandson was born. He is 18 now and the last 8 yrs I have had 2 more Grandchildren born since he was 10............. I told him that I would never be the same granny with them as I am with him, cause the weight coupled with the back, hip and knee pain has sure slowed this ole gal down............. Whew.......... I think to myself that I "Hate" getting old!..............But, I do believe that minus all this weight, I am gonna get a 2nd childhood!! AT least I am planning on it!! I've had lotsa surgeries, too..................what's one more?? WOO HOO!! This one is the bestest, that's all!! My mother passed away last year at 92................... I aim to follow in her footsteps!! I appreciate you jumping in and participating.................that's what makes us one big family. And, I intend to do all I can to keep track on us May babies.............so we can be the star graduates!! Blessings to you, kiddo ............ you will also be in my thoughts and prayers!....Karen

Hi Cyndi, I am happy for you too and I hope everyone that I have met here in OH can get together after one year in Las Vegas for a get-to-gether. I talked to Karen and she is all for it. You have the right attitude. My daughter had the surgery done and she is loving life and can play with her children now. She lost 150 pounds. She is absolutely beautiful. That is why I am having this surgery done on May 7th. I want to live a long healthy life. Karen has been such an inspiration to me. What a sweet lady. Hugs, Esther

Karen, How did you know that "I Believe I Can Fly" is one of my favorite songs. You are incredible and so thoughtful. I enjoyed talking to you but we need to talk again when I can talk longer. You are such a special person and I feel like I have known you forever. Your body may change after WLS but don't change your loving nature. You're the best! Love, Esther

I saw this performed at a local inter-denominational church the first time I visited. A young African American woman in a long flowing skirt using scarfs for effect, performed a modern dance to this music and it was the most beautiful thing I've ever seen........... I have never forgotten the impact it had on me!! How did I know?? I think that they're called s

You are an angel and I need one right now. You are the sweetest ever. Also thanks for the Video on the surgeries. That was really interesting. Love, Esther