I'm new to all of this too. It took me months just to decide to go through with it (surgery end of Oct/first of Nov). Finding the right doctor & facility was so important to me that, when I found them, I couldn't believe it too me so long - I feel like I've wasted valuable time - waiting to get my life back. I finally feel like I'm on the right track! I've shared my decision with my husband and our kids ("mom's having surgery to help with her weight" - they've got enough on their plates away at college - when they ask, I'll tell them). I'm cautious to tell anyone anything because I don't want their opinions or to feel judged. Perhaps I'll tell others a week before surgery or immediately after...or should I just keep my mouth shut? I typically don't care what others think, but this, my lifelong weakness, is difficult to open up about.