My date is Sept. 19 and I can't believe it's actually happening! This has been a year long process - and I had been thinking and praying about it before I actually started taking action. Just still can't believe this is going to happen! Let's talk about what we're all going through right now. Fear? Apprehension? Doubting your decision? Are you having a "Fairwell Tour with Food?" Have you told people yet? If so, how did you do it and how did they react? If you haven't told, why not and when will you tell? Let's get to know each other and support each other through one of the biggest events of our lives! Sandra

I am going to have surgery in mid to end September, I feel it's so close yet so far away. I don't know what to do to kinda keep busy enough not to think about how far away it feels and how near I want it to be... God Bless Sharmie

Hello Renee i am so hapy for you i also got a date to day it is 9/11/06 at 12:00PM and i am scared also lots of questions i go to see the Dr this month on the 16 to get the rest of what ever has to be done to which i have no idea what it is just got my letter from the insuerance yesterday and appts today with the dr needed to get the surgery set on a date so i can get off work befor some one eles whats off for something the way it is i cant have my three weeks off that i want cause some one eles wants off so i only will have 2 weeks and3 days so guess that will have to do like you i look forward to being able to walk or what ever i want with out being out of breath you will have to give me the low down when you are done so i can know what to look forward to just think a new life for us Bette

I am very excited, I've been working on this since May, luckily was approved the first time around! I have 1 more test, EGD 8/10 then 8/16 the anesthesiologist and surgeon then it's just a waiting game. I've lost 12 pounds since I met with the surgeon so I'm hoping it continues, but the scale hasn't moved in a week and I have 2 weddings and a trade show to attend in the next 3 weekends, ugh! I'm nervous about the pain and will I be able to tell when I'm full, will I handle this ok? Will my son and fiance be ok while I'm in the hospital? They are both quite worried. I'm sure we'll all be fine, and it's just jitters, but it's all running through my head, what if I'm not ok? So here's my list of what I'm looking forward to: Buying clothes in a normal store at the mall. Actually having a selection of cute clothese to choose from. Skiing this winter. Snowmobiling this winter. Carrying anything over 15lbs without asking for help. Walking for more the 1/2 mile without pain. Wearing a sexy pair of heels. Feeling strong again. My hips fitting in an airplane seat comfortably. Not feeling like I can't move when I put on snowpants and a winter coat. Not having to use the handicap stall of public restrooms. Being able to paint my own toe nails. Planning a day at an amusement park without worry that I'll have enough energy to keep up with my 14 year old. No more fear of bathing suits in front of people. Wearing a dress, or even a short skirt (I haven't in years because of the size of my legs). Wow, when I started that list I didn't think there was so much... lots to look forward to. Renee

Hello My surgery is on Sept. 19 and I am very scared and not sure at points if I even want to o this but I do know that it is the best thing to do... hang in and things will be ok