Hello, Newbie here!

[AmandaJ]

Hello- I'm new to joining the community here, still trying to navigate my way around. I'm an East Coast Mom, starting at 317, CW is 291 and headed for RnY surgery on 7/9. I feel really prepared and excited for surgery day right around the corner.

A lot of my research has been around preparing for surgery and surgery complications, but I am nervous about how things will be after the surgery and how to handle any amount of weight loss. I'm a relatively drama-free private person, so on my journey, I've chosen to only share with a handful of people that I've opted for surgery. These are folks that are extremely supportive, but also very confidential. My concern is they are folks that haven't been on this journey themselves, and I feel like I've limited a valuable resource from hearing from others... but at the same time, talking openly about surgery or weight loss in general, brings a huge amount of anxiety to me so I'm also not willing to have those conversations with those outside my circle.

I guess that is what is bringing me here today!

 

[Chosen Two]

Congratulations on your surgery date! I'm new here too and really excited for you. Like you, I didn't share my decision with very many people either. Actually, I only told my husband and children about it. When I needed to get time off of work for my surgery and recovery, I told my supervisor and coworkers that I needed surgery for a hiatal hernia since the recovery times and dietary requirements are almost exactly the same. (Strangely enough, my surgeon actually had to correct a hiatal hernia when I had my surgery. Weird!) I guess I really didn't want people providing their personal opinions or unsolicited advice regarding my choice. I've heard way too many negative attitudes toward bariatric surgery and I didn't want to invite that negativity into my life when I had truly made a decision to do something I felt good about.
I'm glad you're here to share your journey with me and everyone else too. It's nice to have a place where you can speak freely and get to know other people who can relate. I look forward to getting to know you and hear all about your successes

 

[JudyNY]

Hi Amanda, welcome! You've come to the right place as there is so much support here. The best support comes from people who have "been there and done that!" Feel free to ask questions, chances are someone else has gone through something similar.

 

[3momchaos]

Welcome! Even sharing with people who’ve had WLS can be a different experience for each person, so I think you’re in the right mindset confiding in people who are supportive and trusting. Glad you’re here!

 

[missyinacage]

Hello and welcome to the group. I think it's important that everyone make their own decisions regarding whom to tell about their surgery. However, imho, it is even more important to be able to share the experience with people who have gone or are going through it. There is nothing quite like hearing that others had the same issues and getting knowledgeable advice. Good luck on your surgery. Keep in touch!