Question:
Have any of you gone through this? Now, that my surgery quest is in the

works and will be scheduled soon, probably to be done in early 2000, I am now finding I'm more embarrassed about my being so overweight than ever before. I just absolutely hate to go out of the house. I have stopped going any place I don't have to - I refuse to eat in restaurants anymore. My husband and I used to eat out all the time, now with the uncertainty that a booth will be too small or that a chair will hold me, I just don't want to go. I dont' dress on the days I stay home and don't have to go out. All I can think about is getting to that surgery day and having a brand new life. Does any of this make sense? Please help!    — Sandy C. (posted on October 23, 1999)

October 24, 1999
Sandy, Please fight this feeling of depression. I know it is hard but it will be so important to your general health pre-op. Get up every morning get dressed and MAKE yourself go outside or go somewhere that you feel comfortable. You will find that each day it will get a little easier. Here speaks the voice of experience. You are not alone.
   — Mary P.

October 24, 1999
hi i am going thru the same thing .if i am not working i stay home.i dont even go to my sons football games i am totally embarrassed i am waiting for insurance approval for my surgery and yes i am waiting for my new life after surgery .i cant understand it either i didnt used to be like this .maybe somebody can enlighten us both good luck to ya .kim
   — kim B.

October 24, 1999
Hi, I had similar feelings before my surgery. I think that before I heard of wls, I had just given up caring about my appearance. It seemed like a hopeless cause, so I just ignored my body, and tried to concentrate on other aspects of my life. Once I found out about wls, there was hope! Then I started focusing on my body again. Feeling every ache and pain, and noticing every rude stare from a stranger. These things helped convince me that I really did want the surgery. It also helped to open up about my feelings with other people who have also been through it. This forum is good, and it would also help to find a "live" support group in your area. Good Luck!
   — Lynn K.

October 25, 1999
Yes, yes and yes. I am so torn though. See, I love myself and my body. But,now, I do find myself having some of these feelings/embarasments too. It is very confusing and destructive. I got some great news today though........I have my intake appointment tommorow to see my Phyciatrist and she works stricktly with eating disorders and body image. I urge you to get some of this kind of help as well. I am also having some feelings of, "...this is who I am and please love me like this cause I dont want you to JUST love me cause I look different". I want people to see me for me and not take a second look just cause I no longer weight 275lbs.
   — Lori W.

October 25, 1999
I am feeling the same way. I feel like I am just passing time until I have surgery and my life will begin again.
   — Christina D.