Question:
The Other Side???

Everyone talks about being on the "other side" like it is a miracle there on that side is this operation that dangerous??? are people surprised when someone makes it to the other side? if you dont get to the "other side" is it mean you died?    — [Anonymous] (posted on January 19, 2001)

January 18, 2001
That term confused me when I first started reading this board. The other side means "the weight loss side, or the skinny side." A new side of life after being on the "fat" side. All surgery for an obese person is "dangerous," that is why you research, investigate. Know that this is what you really want and listen to what your surgeon says. As my doctor told me "you are dying anyway every day you live, do you want to do it fat and ill, or thin and healthy?" I chose the surgery, had a rough time with recovery NOT the surgery, I've lost 110 pounds and I now feel great!! Good luck.
   — Connie G.

January 19, 2001
We often talk about "the other side" as our life after the surgery and all the changes it brings. All surgery has risks involved - no one can say otherwise, but the risks are very minimal compared to the risks of obesity and not doing something medically about it. Obesity os a disease that needs medical attention. The miracle of being on the "other side" is not getting there but rather what happens to us. As we become healthier when the weight begins to come off, many wonderful things happen - our energy level soars, our confidence grows, we feel better about ourselves, and we can enjoy life to a fuller extent because we do not have the excess weight to slow us down. It also means we can enjoy those around us who love us for a much longer period of time. :)
   — Paula G.

January 19, 2001
For me, the "other side" means I'm on my way to my new and healthy life! (As I understand it, the mortality rate is low. 2 out of 2,000. Please know that many people pass away waiting to have the surgery.)
   — cynthiaellis

January 19, 2001
It does seem kinda a weird thing to say, But it describes it so well.Prior to surgery there was alot of decision-making and hope, and a bit of excitement about the potential for a new and better life. Post-surgery, some of the excitement wains due to discomfort and the challenges of surgery, but it is behind you and everyday brings you closer to your "mission". I am two weeks post-op today.
   — Margaret S.

January 21, 2001
The term "the other side" really meant something to me because my surgery was a half-year after my information meeting. During that time I went through quite a grieving process, with plenty of nervousness. But the nervousness was over when I woke up in the recovery room. I have since felt the grieving was unnecessary, since I have been blessed with an easy recovery, rapid weight loss and no sense of deprivation. Good luck!
   — KG B.