Pre-op rant/blues/doubt/cookies/bread/2wks2go

I watched Oprah's "weight loss" show this evening. She gave tips along with her trainer and showcased former obese people's extreme weight loss successes (no WLS). Makes me reexamine myself for the gazillionth time--MAYBE I CAN MAKE LIFESTYLE CHANGES without WLS? Combine that with the anxiety of having a surgery date in 2 weeks and the feeling of "maybe I shouldn't do this"?? Then I switch back to ...this is a tool to make it DOABLE! Of course there's the scolding Self that says--"you haven't been able to do it before, are you fooling yourself again?" Then I lay in bed at night and feel my abdomen as the thoughts about my anatomy being cut, stapled, rearranged permanently and feel a loss and defeat. Then I see the before and after pics and all YOU GUYS surviving and thriving. I have an amazing range of thoughts pre -op. Btw, I'm having a real tough time saying good bye to bread. I ate a whole loaf of delicious chewy crusty multi grain bakery bread last week as another last hurrah and had no regret. I want cookies at night. I dont have them, but I want them. Nothing, not pudding, popsicles,fruit, or even pie or cake satifies that sugary, buttery, crunchy and chewy. Will I lose my life over them--uhhhh no. Does this sickness ever go away? Thanks for listening to me rant.

Boy, did you make me feel better. I've been going through the same thing and my potential surgery date is still a month and a half away. I've been second guessing constantly and eating my way there. You're right, thank God for this site and the many people who encourage, educate and calm us down. I know I've made the right decision, every time I make it!!! I had an appointment with my PCP today and he's thrilled that I'm going through with this. His brother had the surgery and has done very well. He helped to set aside my concerns about making the right decision. I can't imagine never wanting the "goodies", but everyone I talk to says that at least during the "honeymoon" period, you don't crave them at all. That, in and of itself, will be a new experience. Best of luck - Keep us posted on how you're doing! Cheryl

Hey there Patricia, I know how you are feeling. I went through the same feelings it's like a roller coaster ride but I have to say I would do this surgery all over again without a thought. The feelings you are feeling are so normal. It's like a mourning for the foods you have loved all your life and now you are going to say goodbye to them. Just think how much healthier you will be and also happier with the weight off. I have lost a total of 108 lbs in almost 10 months. I work hard at it because it is only a tool that we have and I follow the rules that we are supposed to. I know you will do what you feel is right in your heart. If I can help you in any way please let me know. {{{{{{{HUGS}}}}}}} Have a great day! Evelyn 247/139/past goal dance:

I dont think there is one person who has had the surgery or looking to hav the surgery who doesnt feel like you do. I did. I had my surgery on March 22, 2004. I was scared to death. My vice was soda. I couldnt believe I would have to give it up forever. I never thought I could do it. But when March 22, 2004 came I said goodbye to soda, and fortunately had a wonderful surgery experience. I have lost 146lbs. since that day. But before that I had doubts, I overate. I had a last hurrah about 100 times. I would not change any decision I made. I feel good, I look good, I am now only 15lbs. from my goal weight. I never thought I could get here. This surgery is not something to go into lightly, but if you are struggling with being overweight and diet after diet doesnt work, and you are tired of dieting and tired of feeling worn down, tired of beating yourself up everytime you put any food into your mouth. This tool can help you. My craving for food went away for about 8 months. I thought if I could live like this forever it would be great. But after those 8 months I started getting hungery, sometimes wanting something sweet. I found that sugar free cookies help me. And after eating only 1 or 2 I am completly satisfied. Today I cant imagine eating the whole box (which I would've done before surgery) I dont think the "sickness" will ever go away, but WLS does help to keep it in check. It did for me. I cannot overeat. I am so consious of what goes in my stomach now. Anyway, I hope I have helped you a little. I wish you the best of luck Patricia, and anyone considering WLS. Gail