I HAD A BIG WOW MOMENT TODAY

Well first I have to give a little history before I get to my WOW moment. Before weight loss surgery I attended a weight management group at the VA Hospital in Marion, IN. We had a nutritionist and psychologist running the program. When I announced that I had decided to have WLS the psychologist went berserk that I was going to let someone put me sleep and rebuild my entire insides. I thanked him for his opinion but let him know this was my life and this was my decision. The nutritionist was much more understanding about my WLS. Well today I had an appointment at the VA and decided to pop in and see the nutritionist. She about fell out of her chair. I did see her a month out. She had me get on the scales and sure enough over 150 lbs gone since I was in her class. My wife and I sat and talked to her for over an hour and went over my journey and mentioned all the support that is available from the folks on this board. The VA is not doing WLS at this time but has farmed a few guys out to local bariatic hospitals. After telling her my story about my journey, now here comes the fart, she asks me if I would come down to her class next week and tell my story to the class. Even though she and the doc use the traditional weight loss programs, she wanted me to share about WLS as a possibility. There are guys in her class who are struggling and are well over the 500 mark. She feels they need to know that WLS is an option. So needless to say I accepted the invitation. I told her that I would not try and convince people that this is the way to go, but it has really changed my life. I know that from being in the classes that very few people have been told about WLS as an option. I will let you all know what the reaction is. I know some of the guys have private insurance or are on medicade or medicare. So that is my big WOW for the moment. Really looking forward to having the opportunity to tell my story. Dan

Dan, What an amazing WOW or fart, for you guys! You are doing an amazing job. Be proud to tell your story, it is important. Even if you just touch 1 persons heart with your journey, maybe it will help them or someone they know. What a messenger you will be! Hope you are feeling better. Looking forward to seeing you and Ann on Saturday! Have a great evening and tomorrow! Hugz Dawn

Dawn, you caught me cleaning up the FART. I can still say WOW on our board here. Dan

Dan, That is really fantastic. I think it's really great that WLS was recognized as a viable solution to such a difficult and seemingly impossible health situation. I know the 150 lb reduction felt fantastic, but to make such an impression that you are asked to speak to others about WLS? That's a really big feather in your cap! Way to go & congrats! Sherri

WOW!! Dan that is wonderful.. God works in many ways.. You being able to tell your story to other Veterans.. Heck just letting them see you gives them hope.. Weight loss is possible.. people do it without surgery too but this surgery saved MY LIFE. Dont forget to take a few BEFORE pictures... some of them wont remember.. Linda

That really is a WOW moment!! I bet that is the best feeling to see someone who is so knocked off there chair by your accomplishments!!! With the rough week you were having,, I bet that really really felt good!!!!!! You should be really proud of yourself!!!!! Heather

Hi Dan, I am new to the Indiana board, but wanted to let you know how impressive the invitation to speak is. You will certainly inspire others with your journey. By the way, I am having fun reading the posts tonight. Gail