Question:
Thanks for all comments whether positive or negative

I appreciate all your comments regarding the surgery for my 13 year old who is 100Lbs overweight with diagnosed sleep apnea. Both my sister and I have done the surgery over 3 years ago and have been very successful with it. She is fully aware of all that we have to encounter post-op. We have tried everything else and is still trying. However, her problem is hereditary because all the women in the family is severely overweight and all the men are of normal weight. Her brother who eats twice as much is normal weight so I know the problem is more than what she eats. She suggested the surgery and I entertained the thought and started the process. It is not a easy decision to make...those of us out here is fully aware of that. It is a last desperate move. I do know that the health issues, associated with 100lbs to lose, far outweights the inconveniences of the surgery. Thanks to all and I am still welcoming your comments.    — MARY R. (posted on October 9, 2000)

October 9, 2000
Mary... I TOTALLY understand where you are coming from. 3 generations in our family has had to have WLS. As far as my daughter, I, like you, let this come from her. It was a hard decision, but the only decision. Do whatever you have to do to get your daughter well and on a road to normalcy.
   — Kris S.

October 9, 2000
Mary, As usual I'm the fence sitter. I can see both sides of this situation. 13 does seems very young to have this done in some ways. Mainly it's the immaturity of the child and the great changes required. However, you know your daughter better than anyone. Ultimately, you, your daughter, and her Dr. are the ones who can decide what's best for your child. I guess for me this was a decision that has been manifesting over several years, unlike for you, with a history of family obesity. No one else in my family is overweight...they are all tall and thin. I look positively weird next to them. Like I'm a mutant or something. Anyway, regardless of the advice here, I think you are going to have to make as informed a decision as possible. What is the Dr's opinion about her age? Is she a responsible child? The point someone else made about drinking has to be addressed. From what I understand, drinking isn't something you can do in excess after this surgery. Teenagers and young adults do tend to drink more than is healthy for them. (I'm not saying your daughter will...just something to think about). Sorry if I'm rambling too much. I just think this is a very big decision for such a young person. I hope whatever you decide, your daughter will be happy and healthy. Best.
   — Keri A.

October 9, 2000
You put a different spin on this when you include more information like your family history and the fact that she has seen the post-op needs of this surgery in action. I not only think she should have the surgery now I think that you and your sister should submit your info along with hers to her insurance company. Its either now or 10 years from now with more health problems and less and less activity. Her self esteem and all of the things that teen agers go through when we are obese can possibly be avoided. I know how hard a decision this has been for you and your child to make, but it sounds like you have made it and I would not give up on approval. This is not for every child but your may be ready. Only you know that. If she is then go for it. Blessings...
   — Courtrina Amur W.