Newbie to the Boards-Manchester, TN

Hi Everyone, I am a newbie here as far as posting is concerned. I have been reading and researching on this website for about three years now, though. I have finaly decided that I am going to proceed with a LAP. I had my first visit with the Insurance Lady at my surgeon's office today. She is submitting my paperwork tomorrow. I am excited, scared, anxious, at-ease, and not at-ease all at the same time. This is such an emotional thing for me since I have to finally admit that I do not have control over something in my life. I have lied to myself for the last 15 years ever since I was diagnosed with diabetes at the age of 18. So, not admitting I had a problem led to systemic issues of my failed health which has most recently led to the loss of my left leg below the knee. I just want to feel normal again and feel as if I am in control. Even though I do not have control of my food intake anymore, I am going to take control of this weight and have the surgery. I have to have the surgery or I will be dead in five years. I know that in my heart. I have twin daughters that are 9 years old and if I were not able to see them grow up my soul would be restless for the rest of eternity. I am determined that I am going to grow old and see my grandchildren and hopefully a few great-grandchildren. As good of a daddy as I am, I am sure that I would make and even more wonderful grandpa. And I would enjoy every minute of spoiling them. Maybe I shouldn't ponder on the negative and think about the mortality of my life that far ahead, but I have always loved my life and I will be damned if I am going to give it up.

Hi Shane, I just wanted to say welcome to the TN board! I understand what you mean about getting control of your weight. I've come to that realization myself. I have let my weight control me and it should be the other way around. There are so many things that I don't allow myself to do because of my weight. I'm looking for that to change. Anyways, there is a great goup of people here so if you have any questions or comments feel free to post. April

Thank you, April. I havea feeling that I will be here a lot. I am going to be journaling everything on my profile page as things happen or I just have a need to let things out. My family is so supportive, but they do not always understand what I "feel" since it is not them that it is directly happening to. I know it effects them, but not the same way.

Hi Shane! Welcome! I am sorry to hear about your recent surgery. Do you have a date when you will receive your prosthetic? I was diagnosed with Diabetes this summer and it hit me hard. I have had hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) for several years (since I was 17) and have passed out several times from it. I knew it was only a matter of time before it switched over to diabetes but it still hit me hard when it did. I still have arguments with my Dr when I go in because I do not take my medicine. Primarily out of denial and because of trying to get my mind adjusted and fearing that the medicine will make my sugar go low and I will pass out again. I still have that low blood sugar mentality. I will eventually deal with it. I read you have twins. I am a twin myself. Of course, I hope I DONT have twins when I do have kids. One at a time will work fine with me . I am also major football fan but I am NOT an Indianapolis Colts or Peyton Manning fan so we might have to leave that out of the conversation. . Anyways, I wanted to welcome you to the boards and say that I wish you much success on your weight loss journey to great health. You will find a lot of support here and if you have any questions, just let us know. Misty

Hi Shane, I don't live to far from you !! Don't you dread Bonnaroo traffic again this year?? Good luck with your journey to better health. The wait is the worst of it, after that, it's a piece of cake ( sugar free of course). Hang in there....we're with you all the way. Billie

Shane! Welcome to the best chatroom in TN!!! I had my surgery on 12/30/05 @ Vanderbilt with Dr. Willie Melvin. Where are you having your surgery? My father is diabetic and considered massively obese. I'm so glad you are doing something to better yourself, so your daughters can see you grow up. I truly admire your strength. I understand about the feeling of not being in control through this process. I struggle daily with not being able to eat whatever I want, whenever I want. I know that if I wanted to live much longer, there wasn't a choice in the matter. I too, was borderline diabetic, and after seeing what my father has endured; I have no desire to be like my father. I wish you all the best in your weight loss journey. This is a wonderful place to chat. This board has been my saving grace over the last 7 months. Take care of yourself, & good luck! , Beth

Shane, congrads for making the best decision regarding your life. Getting control is the first step to a healthier you. I am 2 weeks post-op and I can say, I am so glad I was able to have this surgery. I have already noticed some major changes in my body. Don't give up or get discouraged, this process takes time. May God travel with you on your new journey to a new you. Kathy

I really appreciate everyone's kind and warm welcomes. I hope to have fun on these boards as my time comes closer.