A little nervous about opening the can of worms!

So, it's been 7.5 months since my lifestyle change and I haven't regretted a single moment of it.  I've been a lurker her for a long time, but am looking for some guiding wisdom from those that will understand where I'm coming from. 

My surgeon's office is filming a new commercial and approached me about doing it with a fellow patient.  On one hand, I'm totally flattered: on the other, scared ****less.  "Scared?", you may ask... YES!  I've never necessarily hidden my surgery from anyone, but in an attempt to spare myself from the negative comments and the constant surveillance, chose to only tell on a need to know basis.  I'm sure by now, my coworkers have figured it out, but no one has ever come to me and asked. 

So...here's my predicament.  If I do this commercial next week, I am potentially opening a HUGE can of worms.  All of those that "suspected" are going to know for sure.  I'm just worried about the negative attention it could bring me.  I, of course, would love to help those that are considering this path and are sincere about questions, but just don't want the cattiness that women can bring. 

What do y'all think?  Am I overreacting?  Or, for the greater good, should I just suck it up and put my big girl panties on? 

*Disclaimer*  Blahblah opinions and asssholes  :}

Okay, for me, were I someone who did not want to share that I had surgery either before or after (me - I did not want to share BEFORE because I did not care what anyone else thought, period, but was ALWAYS going to tell afterwards, that was not ever an issue) I would not do it, because if I *had* wanted to be out in the open, I already would have.  Ya know? 

I tend to think the reasons you did not want to reveal are only going to be enhanced after a commercial!  I support you in whatever decision you make!

If others have already figured it out, they are being catty behind your back anyway. In fact, by not being honest about it, it gave them a "good" reason to be catty about it....because you are trying to hide it and we all know "secrets"  make us whisper behind the backs of others. 

I have found that being open about it has been the best thing I've done.  I have never had anyone say something negative to me.  Behind my back?  Maybe, I don't know.  And I really don't care.  It's the best thing I ever did for myself and I would shout it from the rooftops if I could.   I actually made the announcement at work during a staff meeting.  I also said that I know not everyone would agree with my decision, but asked for their support.  Everyone has been wonderful!  In fact, a co-worker is now in the process of doing it herself. 

If anyone EVER says to my face that they would rather do it the hard way, or that I took the easy way out, I'm prepared to respond by telling them that I support and admire anyone who can lose it and keep it off on their own, but after years of trying to do it, I knew I needed help, and it was the best thing I ever did for myself.    Being a smartass back to them would serve no good purpose (although tempting!) , but being honest and open doesn't give them reason to come back with another negative remark. 

Maybe just openly start telling people and explain that you feared people's reactions to it.  Confronting it head on and being open to letting them know your reason behind not telling can only give positive responses.  And doing a commercial might be kind of fun!  Are they paying you for this?
 

Hi Ash,

Women can be absolutely horrible & just soo jealous.  Woman, be proud of your weight loss!! and how you got their. It should be no secret, and if they find out so what!  They can just deal with it! Think of it this way, women will hate you just based on your looks alone if your good looking, you can never win. Now go strut your stuff & make your video. 

I've appeared on TV and radio about a dozen times (for things outside the VSG realm), and all I can tell ya is it's amazing how many people don't notice.

I get a lot of "don't I know you" questions or "have we met", but only about 2% of my friends and family ever say "Hey, I saw you on TV."

 Hey Ashley,

This is Vicky.  I am here for you if you need anything -- just to talk or whatever.  You know they asked me to do the commercial too, right? I'm a little nervous but feel it is a privilege and honor that they asked us to represent them.   PM me or contact me and I will be happy to give you my number.  

Yes, they told me you would be doing it too.  That was one thing that helped me agree to do it.  I am very honored and excited to represent a "brand" I believe in.  I would recommend ANYONE to go there.  My only worry is any negative attention it may bring, but since I've had longer to think it over, not stressing over it much anymore.  Look forward to seeing you again next week! 

Go for it! I just filmed a VSG commercial a month ago and its been an amazing experience! I first didnt want everyone to know, but then I decided who the HELL cares how I lost the weight....just important that I did. The response and support has been amazing!