Hi all,

My surgeon's office submitted to my insurance for approval on Monday, and surprisingly they received a letter the next day saying it was approved! Even though the office told me I should be fine, I was surprised that it happened so quick. I have been going back and forth with this decision for the last 2 years but in July decided this is what I what I want to do for my health and my happiness. It has been kind of hard telling all of my friends and family about this because I know how some of them feel about it. I've had some friends and family tell me they don't think I need it, and that I shouldn't do it. Just a little background I am 27 5'2 I weigh 240 and have been overweight pretty much my whole life. I have tried dieting and exercising but I barely lose weight. If I lose any I gain it back pretty soon. I am aware of what I am doing to my body and that the surgery isn't a magical fix. I already have to mentally prepare myself to work out and eat right, but it would be easier if I had the support of everyone close to me. I guess I am wondering if you all experienced the same thing, and how you've been able to look past the stigma of people thinking you're "cheating" or having people tell you to work out instead?

Melissa155, sorry I missed this with you checking up on me. I'm doing pretty darn good, a bit icky from anesthesia, but that's normal for me. It just doesn't set well with me, but nothing major at all. I took a lot of good healthy wishes with me from this website, it's great! Thank you for asking!

Absolutely the BEST thing I ever did for myself!!! It gave me a new lease on life. I am 4 years 7 months out and have been within a few pounds of goal for almost the entire time other than for about 9 months last year while DH was failing (he died at the end of the year). I am back down around goal and I had NEVER in my adult life stayed at goal more than a few months at best. I am 65 btw and in fantastic health (now vs. when I was 100 pounds heavier). I still marvel at how much work my body had to do to carry all that weight around. I have been told I look perhaps 10 years younger than I am and am dating again.

You had an extreme amount of weight loss and keeping more than 100 pounds off at ten years is much more than the average person does. We all deal with life events and for me, they do not affect my weight. Mine is totally dependent on what I eat

I had RNY and have had problems with reflux. I would not wish that on anyone. I refuse to take the meds, so treat it with baking soda. My doctor has prescribed a sodium bicarbonate tablet that I take twice a day.

I am 13 years out and can also eat normal portions most of the time. I tell myself that my life is always going to involve being on a diet. I weigh myself daily and track my food carefully. I have seen too many people have massive amounts of regain, so stay forever watchful.

Congratulations on a good ten years.