New to group. Looking for support buddies in this new step in my life.

Hello, my name is Ashly Wegley. I am 22 (soon to be 23) and have struggled with my weight for practically my entire life. I have always struggled with my weight and got picked on a lot when I was younger. It still happens now. I am a mother to my one year old daughter and I'm heavier now that I was during my pregnancy. A whopping 289 pounds. I started thinking about looking into Bariatric Surgery back in August. Finally I made a call to Tufts Medical Center in Boston and my first appointment was for December 18th of this year. Oddly enough it was also the two year anniversary of my fathers passing. I say oddly because he always used to pick on my weight when I was younger and once he got sick with cancer he started changing his way of thinking. Now with a child and currently the heaviest I have ever been I have noticed myself having more issues. I've been to the hospital too many times to count in recent months for chest pain, migraines, breathing issues, and checking for blood clots. My family history with these is extensive and already being considered "Morbidly Obese" I knew something had to change. 

So I started looking in the Bariatric Surgery route. I have tried Slim Fast, Special K, weight loss pills, working out, and food deprivation. If anything I just gained more. I'm at the point where I hate leaving the house. My clothes barely fit and I currently can not afford more. Not to mention I hate seeing myself in a mirror. 

So my first appointment was the 18th and I saw my Behavioral Therapist. My boyfriend came along with me and was able to join in the conversation. I talked about my past and why I wanted to go down this route. I know this process is supposed to take 3-5 months but I already have my Nutritionist appointment, Immersion Day, and my next Behavioral and Nutritionist appointments scheduled. The farthest one being Feb 3rd, 2015. With my first appointment to meet the Surgeon being scheduled on Immersion Day. 

I'm looking for support for people who are going through the same things as me. Whether you are interested in Bariatric Surgery or have already had it done and are now adjusting. Also those who have recipes that are healthy for post-op. Thank you.

~Ashly Wegley

Good luck in your journey---a good decision in my opinion.  I never thought mine would come to fruition but it did.  I started it on September 11, 2014 and was determined to make it happen.  Read my blog.  On December 29, 2014 I was sleeved and here I am, 7 weeks out and 57 pounds healthier.  Meds decreased 72%.  I now only take Synthroid and Prozac and of course my vitamins.  I feel so much better, walk 6 days a week, and have just started going to the YMCA.  You can do it!