New Around Here...

 Hi Everyone...I'm Ashley, new-ish to the WLS idea. I had thought about it in the past, and even talked about it with my mom before, looked into it a bit, but never made a choice, sort of shoved it aside. Then 2 weeks ago, I got up, had a normal morning or grocery shopping and errand running, got home, put my groceries away, sat down and watch a tv show and got up an hour later, and I couldn't stand. My lower back was in so much pain, if I stood up straight and tried to walk I was on my knees crying.  Luckily I had already booked a doctors appointment for the following week and when I spoke to him about it then, he informed me I have sciatica, and that I need to lose weight in order for it to go away. Now, I, with the help of my doctor,  have been trying to lose weight for a very long time, it just isnt working. He told me last week he thinks I should consider WLS. So for the past 4 days, I have been reading, and reading, and reading all about it. Pro's and Con's, Post Op stories, what I would have to look forward to, and how my life would change (Much of the information I had already read about previously). At this point I am seriously leaning towards it, but I am scared. There is so many possibilities, and its an unknown world out there.

Thanks for listening. I hope to get to know you all as I continue my journey along this path.

Ashley

 Hi Ashley! 

Sounds like you've been doing a great job just becoming educated on the topic of WLS...that's so important.  It's good to have questions, fears and doubts.  I, honestly, get more scared of people who don't really research before surgery.  It is a big decision with big risks but big payouts too.  Your life will change but from where you are now, it will change for the better.  I had a complication that required a surgery just two weeks ago and I'm over a year out...but I knew something could happen going in....yeah it wasn't fun but I still don't regret the surgery.  

Good luck to you and on your decision!

~Emily~

Welcome Ashley!
Good for you for taking time to seriously consider the risks vs. benefits before you commit to this process. I know its scary, and you're right, there are unknowns. But there are some things you do know- like you're going to continue being in pain until you get rid of the excess weight. Best of luck to you!
Corey

hi ashley!! wellcome to the board!!! it hink is great ur taking the time to do ur reserch n be informed. this is very important to be able to take a concious about what wls is , n if ur willing to comit to it!
here is a great place for support and ask cuestions u may have!, everyone here is amazing!. so feel free to as what ever it comes to your mind!

keep us posted, n good luck

hugs.