Describe your behavioral and emotional battle with weight control before learning about bariatric surgery.

Struggled with weight gain with the onset of Hypothyroidism & BirthControl (age 27 +). i'm 1 month from turning 44, but sInce 27, I've attempted every diet known to man-kind to lose weight.From Weight Watchers, Jenny Craig, Atkins, Liquids and Diet Pills/Phentermine/Shots/Body Wraps/Personal Trainer! I've tried it al and spent countless $ on trying to attain sustained weight-lossl. I have learned that I can lose the weight, but can't seem to ever keep it off for any lengthy time period. I am a foodie at heart and enjoy great food and wine in the company of my friends, family and spouse! I love the kitchen and cooking up meals and treats for my family and friends. I have a side hobby and catering company and do private events on occassion, not for the money but because of the passion I have for food and entertaining. Food is the center of my latin culture and it's the foundation for all celebrations, making it a daunting task to maintain a healthy weight. In the last decade, I've developed hypertension, sleep apnea, high cholesterol and am borderline diabetic. I've managed to maintain control of all co-morbidities through RX but realized after the death of my mother, who struggled with the same chronic health problems I now have, that prolonged use of RX also has severe consequences. One of the last things mom told me before she passed 2 years ago, was to control my body weight she didn't want me to end up like her! Obese, Diabetic, Hypertense, Sclerosis of the Liver (but she never drank a drop of alcohol) and ultimately she passed away from Renal failure. Her last words echo in my mind and they have been some of the key drivers in my consideration for seeking bariatric surgery as permanent and sustainable weight loss solution. However, I'm fearful about the post-bariatric eating life-style that I'll be faced with in light of the aforementioned passions for food and drinks, not to mention the quality of my personal life!

What was (is) the worst thing about being overweight?

My chronic health problems, although controlled by medication, really don't allow me the energy and desire to participate in outdoor activities and sporting events and have jeapordized my ability to have another child. I have a 23-year old daughter from my 1st marriage, but also a deep desire to have another child with my fiancee. Being overweight has diminised my self-esteem and libido. My self esteem is moderatly middle-of-the-road, but could definintely be improved. My libido has suffered tremendously and in combination with my sleep apnea have really created unsavory problems in the bedroom.

If you have had weight loss surgery already, what things do you most enjoy doing now that you weren't able to do before?

Currently considering Gastric Sleeve, awaiting Insurance approval.