Ready to be a big loser :)

Well, after much research, prayer and consideration - I've decided that I am goin' for it. Right now I am "only" (ONLY haha) 110 lbs over my ideal and I am only at 43 BMI - but I know that if something drastic does not change... this will only increase - as it has over the past 10 years. As it is right now, I am pre-diabetic, fatty liver and elevated BP. So, last week, I attended the seminar and had a consult with the surgeon. Any apprehension I had going into this was totally gone after my consult. Now I just cannot WAIT to get this done. Looking forward to chatting with you on this journey. Tracy W.

Tracy, It took me a LONG tome to decide this surgery was right for me....I researched and contimplated for about 8 monthes before I started my screening with Ohio State. Once I started my screening (Jan 2004) I was ready to go THAT MOMENT..... I completed all of my requirements in Sept...which is also when my battle with the insurance company started. I have been battling for 6 months...by now I am SO ready! All of my fears and doubts have been replaced with determination and peace of mind that this is the right decision. Getting to the operating room is a long arduous journey, but each step helps you with your decision! good luck! Liz Hillsboro

I have done my homework as well. My surgery is this Monday the 28th! I believe this is the best option for my health. Otherwise, I know that I would be climbing the ladder of pounds. I am at the lower end of what they consider morbid obesity. I am 5 3'. I weigh 230 now. I have only GERD as my consequence. BUT I am knocking on the door to far greater complications if I chose not to have this surgery. So I have made my decision and I am looking forward to a more healthy, happy me. My gift for my children will be the gift of time too. I will add 5 + years of life and that is 5 more years of life on this earth with them. Yes, I am only 43 but it does matter because I love my children ,17 and 13, more than anything else in this world. I believe I have one of the best surgeons in the country, Dr. Ben Meir and the best hospital St. Vincent Charity. They are the Gold Standard of WSL. So now I put my life in Jesus hands and enjoy the wonderful ride I am about to undertake.: Melanie