Handling My Public Persona and Reactions to WLS - LONG
I am an extrovert. I love to meet people and I'm friendly and outgoing, always have been. I have worked in the same office environment for almost 11 years, and LOTS of people here know me. I do training and work in HR, so it's just the way it is.
Over the last couple of months, as my weight loss became VERY noticeable, I've had lots of comments and compliments and have enjoyed them. I've been out front with my method of weight loss, depending on who asked and how I felt that day, I either say "I've had wt loss surgery" OR "thanks, I've been eating less and moving more" - most people are supportive and I like to be honest, but keep things I want private to myself. I'm not ashamed of WLS and I'm very proud of my efforts and my success, so far. I do stop short of telling how much I've lost, I don't care to put a number on it. So I evade that question, unless it's a good friend or someone I want to share it with.
This morning on two different occasions, as I walked around the building, a very heavy woman asked me about it. The first time, I took some time and talked to her and answered her questions. I could tell she had the desperation I always felt. I tried to be as patient and kind to her as people were to me, while I made the decision.
The second woman just rode the elevator with me, and our brief conversation was cut short when someone else got on, and I didn't want her to feel awkward, so changed the subject. I bet she approaches me again.
All this to say - example is the best way to help others. I wasn't ready for a long time, thought it was too drastic, etc. People need to go at their own pace. I did. We are all so sensitive about our weight issues and need to be gentle with those around us. I felt good today, to be able to share information, feel proud of myself, and yet not try to be a missionary for WLS! Each in their own time, you know?
Just wanted to share this with you.
Over the last couple of months, as my weight loss became VERY noticeable, I've had lots of comments and compliments and have enjoyed them. I've been out front with my method of weight loss, depending on who asked and how I felt that day, I either say "I've had wt loss surgery" OR "thanks, I've been eating less and moving more" - most people are supportive and I like to be honest, but keep things I want private to myself. I'm not ashamed of WLS and I'm very proud of my efforts and my success, so far. I do stop short of telling how much I've lost, I don't care to put a number on it. So I evade that question, unless it's a good friend or someone I want to share it with.
This morning on two different occasions, as I walked around the building, a very heavy woman asked me about it. The first time, I took some time and talked to her and answered her questions. I could tell she had the desperation I always felt. I tried to be as patient and kind to her as people were to me, while I made the decision.
The second woman just rode the elevator with me, and our brief conversation was cut short when someone else got on, and I didn't want her to feel awkward, so changed the subject. I bet she approaches me again.
All this to say - example is the best way to help others. I wasn't ready for a long time, thought it was too drastic, etc. People need to go at their own pace. I did. We are all so sensitive about our weight issues and need to be gentle with those around us. I felt good today, to be able to share information, feel proud of myself, and yet not try to be a missionary for WLS! Each in their own time, you know?
Just wanted to share this with you.
Mary
"Do not let what you cannot do interfere with what you CAN do." John Wooden
I'm down 120 pounds - thanks to RNY! Working on the next 25. Then I'll tackle more...
"Do not let what you cannot do interfere with what you CAN do." John Wooden
I'm down 120 pounds - thanks to RNY! Working on the next 25. Then I'll tackle more...
Mary you have done an amazing job with your WLS!!
People do tend to ask a lot of questions at first. I too answered them accordingly. I am not ashamed that I had WLS but at times just don't feel like sharing it with everyone. This is not the EASY way out and too many people still feel that way about it.
I agree with everything you have said....WTG!!!
Hugs....connie d
People do tend to ask a lot of questions at first. I too answered them accordingly. I am not ashamed that I had WLS but at times just don't feel like sharing it with everyone. This is not the EASY way out and too many people still feel that way about it.
I agree with everything you have said....WTG!!!
Hugs....connie d
Mary, you incredible shrinking woman you! Well done. Share what you are comfortable sharing. Otherwise it's no one's beezwax!
I too don't want to tell just anyone how much I've lost. I just hit 80.5 lbs lost today and if I tell someone, I can see them do the math, which I HATE. Or they say (always much louder than you want) "Wow, you've lost a ton!" thus attracting unwanted attention. So I just say "Geez, I'm not sure"
Anyway, you look amazing!
I too don't want to tell just anyone how much I've lost. I just hit 80.5 lbs lost today and if I tell someone, I can see them do the math, which I HATE. Or they say (always much louder than you want) "Wow, you've lost a ton!" thus attracting unwanted attention. So I just say "Geez, I'm not sure"
Anyway, you look amazing!
RNY 12/28/09
Imperfect does not = unsuccessful Yeah! I just ran into a former co-worker and he called me "skinny" - HARDLY! I still have quite a way to go - but I just smiled and said "gee, thanks!" LOL
Mary
"Do not let what you cannot do interfere with what you CAN do." John Wooden
I'm down 120 pounds - thanks to RNY! Working on the next 25. Then I'll tackle more...
"Do not let what you cannot do interfere with what you CAN do." John Wooden
I'm down 120 pounds - thanks to RNY! Working on the next 25. Then I'll tackle more...
Mary you are looking incredibly good. At 101 pounds or more lost, people will start making comments and the fact that we are not covering up with so many clothes they will notice even more! That is what is happening to me. Every day this week I've had someone comment on the weight I've lost. I too choose who to say what to and only tell the pounds lost to whom I know won't judge me or look like they are dumb founded. Hope to see you tomorrow. Donna
Mary you look great!!! I am still in the pre WLS process and don't even know if I will even get approved. But I am one that does not care to share with many people that I am having WLS (or might be). I am afraid of too many questions and too many after questions. I only will share with those people that I think care about me. and I totally agree if you start sharing numbers they will do the math.
Can't wait to be on the losers Bench!
Can't wait to be on the losers Bench!
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