Just have to say....

I was really suprised to hear what went on at meeting. I can't believe that there are "grown ups" out there acting like they are in JRHigh again. I know some people live in this after surgery "dream" world that you will never have the problems with food, relationships, or emotions like you did before surgery. I hate to burst your bubble but you will find out really soon that your silver lining has a big hole in it. Like I have always been told from before surgery til now this is a "tool". You still live your life, you still eat, you still have your every day emotions to deal with. What you do with this "tool" is in your hands.... not the Dr's, not your fellow support people but you. You are your own responsibility not anyone elses!!! Live your life, because this is the only one you get. Enjoy the journey... and don't let anyone else ruin it for you! As for my UPS sister's and bro's.... I love each one of them dearly and let me say this... I have been hanging with them since before my surgery and we have been going out to eat after meetings. I have noticed what they eat and how much and they are my heros. I would not be here today minus 136 lbs if it was not for my friends. I love all of you.... and no matter what anyone says you all are the greatest inspirations to me. I find love, acceptance, compasion, and the greatest support there is here on this board and at our meetings. (P.S. LCBBS.... I love you too. =0) ) Sorry to ramble... I just have to stand up for the greatest group of people on this earth. I love you all!!!! Pam

Ohh the drama! I was at the pre surgery support group meeting and was not able to hang around for dinner after the post surgery support group meeting. Can someone please, please email me at work and let me know what on earth really happened?? [email protected]. As a new patient going through the whole presurgery stuff we all have to go through I feel each and every one of you are so important to me and the rest of us out there. When you post your successes, it gives me such great hope and makes me so proud of each of you for the hard work you have had to go through for your achievements! Kathy, Melissa, Jenn, Rachel, Patti, Pam...you guys are regulars on the message boards, and when you share so much, it does give the pre ops a since of we know you...so we naturally become curious of your ups and downs and truly share in your victories and we pray for you when things aren't quite going so well. Also, when you post your down times or that you have cheated and are dealing with the guilt and sometimes no guilt..., it gives me a sense of reality that this is not a miracle cure, there will be hard work ahead, but it IS a wonderful tool and with preseverance it WILL work and it WILL be worth it. So, please know, that the majority of us out here want/need to hear the good the bad and the ugly of whatever you wish to share....it does help in our journey and helps us to know what to look forward to in the months/years to come after surgery. Those of you who choose to share so much, it is soooo much appreciated. Please dont let what one person or a few people perceive get to you too much. This board is amazing because of the PEOPLE who take the time to share and make it amazing. It wouldnt be what it is without each of you contributing to it. and thats my 2 cents worth.... with much love and admiration to you all~ Melissa

We love you Pam, and I have to say you look fabulous! (I did notice how tiny you looked in between my rantings and steady stream of expletives last night ) Kathy

Yes Pam, you look great and thank you , I love you too and thanks Melissa for your support. Patti

Yes, it's true ... Last night's drama caused me to miss telling you how FANTASTIC you look!!! You are melting before my eyes. Love you.