Just noticed the messageboard

it has certainly been a process for me to decide to have this surgery after spending so much of my life being a fat activist. I still believe that everyone should feel good about themselves no matter how they look. I still believe that the diet industry, fashion industry, media, etc. etc. perpetuates this notion that you are not worthy unless you are thin and they start at such a young age with these messages. I still believe the yo-yoing of dieting up and down is worse and the self-hate and the messages stirred up from pre-school on is damaging to a society. All of that being said....it wasn't until I had a near-death experience and lost 150 lbs and experienced life from a different traffic lane that I wanted to have the surgery and take the rest of the weight off. My health changed, people treated me differently, my access to clothing, seats in planes, etc. ...well you know. I just do not want to live the rest of my life being the fattest person in the room waiting for the next bomb to drop in my body. I have no idea who I will get support from. Who will judge me? We certainly can be a dogmatic bunch! I have until May 22nd to get everything together. I need help with all the nutritional things. Anyone walked this road before and have some ideas? I am having surgery with Pamela Foster btw. More later. It is late

Welcome to the board, Leah. I'm glad the you found your way here. This is one of the best places to find support down that journey to surgery. As far as the nutritional information, you will probably see a nutritionist before your surgery. At least most surgeons have their patients see one. Each surgical practise has their own ideas about nutritional requirements before and after surgery. But if you have any general questions just ask and I am sure you will get lots of help. Again, welcome to the board. Rhonda

Congrats on your upcoming surgery, you can always count on us to give you all the supportive you need, we are here for you. As for the nutritional aspect, if you have any question you can alway post your questions, the member on this board will help you through that as well. As for surgery, it has been a long journey for me. I was denied wls from my insurance company for over 2 1/2 years, i appealed and appealed and appealed. I was 431 pound had so many medical problems I was still being denied. I had sleep apnea so bad that I was having accidents because I was falling asleep behind the wheel while driving, they still denied me, even though I paid my deductible faithful for 10 years they still denied. I think that it such a bless to be approved for surgery when you really need it. I was fortunate to have a very supportive partner who added me to her insurance I had surgery 16 days ago. I have never been happier. You will do good with your surgery. And again if you ever need us we are here for you.