They said, "Don't get that surgery."

Hi Jan!!  The first comment my mother made to me was "you will die".  That just started it off real well.  My husband and 3 of my 5 children were very supportive.  Once I made the decision, I did not listen to the negativity.  It has been one of the best things I have ever done for me.  I wish you all the best!!

Hi Jan,    Luckily, I never had any negative comments.   Here's how I rolled out the news:
1) Prior to making the decision to have wls, I consulted my Doctors, my Husband, my Mother & my Children.  That's all...
2)  Once the decision was made, I told all my friends, neighbors, etc.    I told it in such a way that they knew in no uncertain terms that my decision was final.  I think that sent a clear message that I wasn't asking for an opinion, just their best wishes.

In any case, it's your choice.  You're the one who needs to check it out, learn all you can & make the decision.  I hope your friends wise up & start offering the support you deserve.  Remember, we're always here with lots of support for you!!!

Hi Jan

I told my son and daughter in law on Sunday about my plans on having the surgery.  My daughter in law told me I should not have it, it's not safe, etc.  My son said "Mom, just diet'.    

I shared with them the journey I've been on, the classes I've been to, the dieting I've been doing to lose weight prior to surgery.  To my son, an information junkie like myself, I gave this website and others that describe the surgery.  I also gave him the website for my surgeon.

I told them I was doing it so I would be healthy and strong as I move into my retirement years.   I shared the daily struggles I've had and asked for their support. I also asked them to accept that it was going to happen.  They didn't have to agree with me, they just needed to know that it WAS going to happen and that I would be ok.

My son was feeling a bit better about it all by the time they left. My daughter in law clammed up and would not discuss it.     I wish she would, but I'm not doing it for her, the grandkids or anyone else but me.    So I'm putting on my emotional blinders and moving forward.   It will be so worth it!

Linda

(post edited for typos..ugh...)

I have told pretty much everyone. My family...they still are a little leary, but they also know that I can't do much of anything now, and a good part of that is extra weight, My friends think its great, but have that few something could happen with the surgery. I tell them that it could, nothing is without risk. But how many other risks would I have without having surgery? I say its more risk if I do nothing.

And you're doing it for YOU, not for them....but I bet they'll like the new you too!

Nancy