I am 5"3 and weigh 200 and I am also a self pay..I have a family history of really bad weight issues and I am trying not to follow in their footsteps. I know just how you feel! I am scheduled 4/24. Good luck.
My "liquid" diet is going ok. I drink 2 protein shakes a day and a small meal…not too bad, but it is a pain..I still have to cook for the family and that is hard.