Update on me....

Paula,  you are certainly in my thoughts and prayers.  I know how things can get overwhelming at times, and how it's easier to just kind of lurk on the sidelines - and I don't deal with any kind of clinical depression, so you certainly are dealing with a lot. I'm not sure I understand why your PCP won't give you Chantix?  Is she concerned about that interfering with any of the other meds you need to be on?  If so, then it seems reasonable to wait until you get all the other issues figured out.  If not, then what IS she waiting for?  Seems to me smoking might be one of the first, and perhaps easier issues to kick to the curb, so you can focus on the others a bit more intently. As for your ex, I will NEVER understand how a "man" can fight his responsibilities for a child he helped bring into this world.  I have another friend going through something similar right now, and I just want to kick that b*st*rd in the nuts!! Have faith, Paula.   **hugs** to you... 

I am pre-surgery (met pre-surgery weight loss requirement, awaiting insurance approval any day now), and I just wanted to say that your willingness to share your difficult recent life experiences is inspiring to someone like me who by comparison has much less to deal with right now.  You are doing the right thing for your kids, battling depression and probably money and childcare issues all while working to stay on top of your weight management efforts.  That is truly impressive, even if you are having trouble seeing that right now through the fog of depression.  Good luck and thanks for sharing your story.