Introduction

I posted this on the main board, but I truly enjoy this board too, so here you go!

I have been a lurker on the boards for quite sometime.  Since I am getting closer in the process of getting WLS I decided I would formally introduce myself because I would like to become more active on OH.  Reason being:  the post-ops have helped me so much and I owe it to those that come after me.  So here is my story, thanks for listening! My story is very similar to most here on the boards.  I have been overweight all of my life but was mostly able to manage and keep it under control until my middle college years.  In high school I was very active in sports and with my friends.  Dating kept everything in check too.  Even tho I still weighed 190lbs, I felt good about myself because I felt I was attractive, had great muscle tone etc.  In college I met my now husband, and as I tell everyone, I got fat & happy.  Food has always been such a social habit for my husband and me, my family, and our group of friends.  It was easy to slack off and eat the wrong things.  In addition, my activity level went way down after high school.  I was in college and working a full time desk job.  So, needless to say in 7 years I have packed on about 100 more lbs to bring me to the all time high of 300lbs.  I used to tell myself that I could never weigh 300lbs.  It just was not possible nor would I let it happen.  Okay-WRONG.  It happened.  To make things worse (tho it is not an excuse) I have been diagnosed with PCOS and have more than likely had PCOS for many many years.  Those of us that have PCOS, are now well educated about the weight issues and the up-hill battle that stands before us. 

Now that you know my history, I can tell you about where I am today.  I am 2 years out of college, married almost 3 years.  I have an awesome husband, great job, great family and friends.  I am truly a very happy individual.  There is one missing link tho.  I am overweight and unactive.  I don't feel good in the clothes I wear.  I miss feeling sexy for my husband.  I miss going out and dancing.  I miss riding horses when I got the chance.  I am missing out on a lot!!  And the biggest thing of all, I don't want to miss out on having children and at this weight, I will. 

So I have started the journey to WLS and I am excited about the changes that are before me.  I think this will only help to enrich my already "rich" life.  My insurance requires a 6 month diet and I am in month 5.  I read so many profiles and love the OH site so much that I have promised to become a more active member not only for myself and to look back on my progress, but also for others that come after me.  I know the post-ops have helped me immensly and I hope that I can do the same for others. 

Hello and Welcome

Welcome! I too am a recent-former-lurker-turned-member.  =)

It is the hardest thing, to make a decision to do this. I have never once regretted it. I am 25, and have been mentally where you are now. I congratulate you on taking the steps to improve your life. I'm 7 months out, and feel like a whole new person. Good luck, and keep us posted!!

I'm waiting on my insurance. Been around OH since Oct 2004. Now the surgery is coming closer for me too. Great to have you! -Erin

hey girl, welcome! i am 10 months out, and even though this surgery is difficult sometimes the outcome has been so wonderful, i would never ever, in a million years regret my descion! good luck to you and remember we are all here if you have any questions or need support!

Hi! You know, they say when you get married, your eating habits change. When you're single, you can eat when and what you want. But you get married, and suddenly you have to consider having defined meal times, eating foods that both of you like, and many women start eating portion sizes that are the same as their husband's. There's actually research on there about this. Just like in college with the Freshman 15, there's the Newlywed 30. It's crazy. Anyway, I wish you well on your weight loss journey. I'm very happy I went through it, and my life has changed for the better. I didn't think it would change me on the inside (no pun intended) but I have become much more extroverted and my social phobia has calmed down a lot. That 6 month weight loss period is nice because it proves to yourself that you really are committed to the process. I went through it too, and even though it was frustrating to have to wait, I did change my mind in that period from having the lap-band to gastric bypass. So I'm glad I had that time to adjust and prepare for my new life. Keep in touch and good luck!