Question:
A word of encouragement to those considering surgery. . .

This morning I was reflecting over the last two years as I was at the gym working on my thirty minute treadmill part of my hour and 20 minute regular routine. My surgery anniversary date is the 14th and I was remembering how afraid I was of having the surgery and remembering how at this time two years ago, I could barely walk from my car the block into my office and certainly that short journey was filled with pain. Every step was excrutiatingly painful on my knees, accompanied by pain just about everywhere else. Although two years later I still am not the size 4 or 6 I had hoped to be by now, I am, however, 175 lbs and able to walk from one end of the mall to the other, and find lovely clothes that fit, blend in with the crowd (that was one of the things I wanted most, just to blend in) and I'm very slowly still gaining ground in this lifelong battle. Just the other day I tried on a pair of size junior 13 jeans that I had put aside months ago because I couldn't get into them, and darned if they didn't fit! Every month or so brings just such a small miracle. Little in some lives, but huge in mine. My longwinded point I'm trying to make, is I certainly haven't regretted my decision to have the surgery for one minute. It is a scary thing to do, you do truly put your life on the line, but the benefits can be overwhelming. It isn't an easy way out ticket to your dreams come true, it IS a TOOL and you will have to do the hard work necessary, but it is giving you HOPE to one day get there, hope that hasn't come any other way in my 55+ years of trying everything. Just my personal reflections of what has happened for me. . . good luck to you all in whatever choices you make, Donna    — Donna S. (posted on November 12, 2004)

November 12, 2004
I couldn't have stated it better. The surgery is a Diet Tool. You have to develop good eating habits and exercise habits. And get help when needed for the emotional issues that will come up. I so glad I had the surgery. 19 months post-op, from a 5x to size 12. Was 329 lbs Now 140.
   — Linda R.

November 12, 2004
This is the first time I've posted. But I know where you are. I just hit through the "honeymoon period", and I'm realizing that this will be a life long thing. Even though I'm at my goal of 150, I'm vascillating between 145-155 and eating for stress, whatever. I really think what will be our battle forever. I belong to a club and work out at least 2-3 times a week, but know I should be there 4-5 times; am I trying to sabotage myself??? My good friend weighs 137 at 5'9", and I'm 5'6", so I still feel flabby and chunky next to her?? So I made an appointment with a counselor , I'm beautiful, but not good enough. I still think the surgery is great, I'd have never gotten to where I am without it. It's all in our head, honey. Best of luck, the journey doesn't end with the incision.
   — Jill L.

November 12, 2004
That was wonderfully stated. I had my year check up with my surgeon on Thursday, none of them could believe how well I have done. I weighed 500 lbs, when I started my journey. I have decided that this is all about the choices you make from here on out. Making the correct choices in food and life are so much greater than the surgeon's hands. The surgeon gave you the lifesaving tool and now it is up to each and everyone of us to make the correct choices to preserve the tool we have been given. I now weigh 239 lbs and for the first time in a long time I feel wonderful. I am able to walk without pain in my back or anywhere else. I want to wish everyone about to have the surgery and everyone that has the surgery god luck and make wonderful life choices. Holly Harris
   — Holly H.

November 13, 2004
Thank you for such encouraging words to anyone that is considering or going to have surgery. I have asurgery date on Nov.29. I am getting nervous now. I know this is natural, but I guess it is just sinking in a little deeper that my date is just around the corner. It is so goos to be able to come to a site like this one. So many of my questions have been answered here and now something to make me feel better about the days ahead. thanks donna! melinda
   — taterbug898

November 14, 2004
Thank you for posting this commentary. I am going to have my surgery on Wednesday and am having so many emotions right now, the number one being fear! But reading all of these responses, as well as your own story, gives me the confidence that I am making the right choice. Thanks again and congratulations!
   — Melinda M.

November 15, 2004
THANK YOU SOOOOO MUCH! Pre-ops like me need to hear this. I think every body gets scared about the surgery, But with testimonies like this it will give us stregnth and hope that we to can reach a stage in out journey to become healthy. Congadulations on your success and please pray for all pre-ops. God Bless you and may you continue in success.
   — JerseyGirl