Hello from a new member!

Hello everyone! I'm 19 and hoping to have the gastric sleeve surgery soon. My surgeon's office said I should check out the site. I've been obese all my life and would like the chance at a better life in the future. It's a little scary, but I'm more afraid of NOT losing the weight. :) Nice to meet you all.

Welcome!  I believe you have found one of the most beneficial sites around.  I have always said that the people of the TN board are the best there is!  If you have any questions, feel free to jump in and ask.  We look forward to meeting you one day! Scott

Thank you very much! I live sort of out of the way, but I'm gonna try to make some of the events and stuff if I can. Ashley

Hi, and welcome to the board!  Hope you find it comfortable here...  like Scott said, just jump on in!

Welcome to the board! You will love it here!

Well you've already started your WLS journey on the right foot, Congratulation!  I will always be grateful to my friend David who turned me onto this board and you will thank the one who directed you.  From the encouraging before and after photos to the vast amount of knowledge brought to this board by people who are just starting their WLS journey to those who are several years out.  This board is encouraging, motivating and informative it will become the life line of your journey.  Everyone who participates brings a unique perspective either from the questions they ask or the answers they give.  There are several people who are or have gone through Vandy and have Dr. Richards, I'm one of those people. This will give you specific info on those questions.  I hope you have success on your journey and maybe we can change your name to ONEWHODID!  Good Luck C' ya Bob 

Welcome to the board ! You have come to the right place for support and if you have any questions feel free to ask !

A big hello to one of the youngest from one of the oldest (67yrs) people on the boards. This is a good place to be. Where about do you live. I know several people that have used your doctor and they all seem to like him. I had my rny Oct. 1st in Memphis. Yes this surgery is scary but you are very young and you should come through it ok. Get ready for your surgery by making a few changes now. Walk a lot so you can get use to it and get your self as healthy possible before hand. It will help with the recovery. There are many things that can be done now that will help you ajust after your surgery. The most important thing is read everything you can now. Good luck to you.  Birdy

As everyone has stated yo uare in the right place.  Dr. Richards was my doctore and I had the VSG. If you ahve any questions please don't hesitate to ask.  Melissa

Hi Ashley, Welcome to the TN forum...   My surgeon is Dr. Richards and in my opinion he is one of the best surgeons in the world.   The board is comprised of several different people in the area that have different just as equally qualified surgeons with wonderful and outstanding WLS centers.  This area is truly blessed and I am very lucky to be a part of this special community. How did you come to choose Dr. Richards? Why did you choose the Gastric Sleeve procedure? If I am asking too many questions just tell me to be quiet!!! LOL  !! I attended every Weight Loss Surgery Seminar  in the area a good 2 or 3 times.  My family teased me and called me a "Professional Seminar Goer" LOL!!,    But in all seriousness I knew that knowledge was power and that I had to make a decision based off what was right for ME and what felt right to ME....   It is scary sweetie....  You are showing much maturity and wisdom at just 19.  When you stated "My surgeon's office said I should check out the site" to me that shows you will be way ahead on your road to success.  Following your surgeons office advice is huge and plays a bigger role in this process than you may ever know!!!!!!