SnowFlake01106

O.k...where to start -- I am 46 years old, own my own business, and have a BMI of 47. Tried a lot of diets,

Until recently, I would not consider having gastric bypass surgery because I was concerned about the recovery time that I would have to take --- I have a sister that works with me, but only part-time, so I cannot take weeks to recover from surgery (of any kind).

I found BariatricPal when I "googled" gastric sleeve. After reading some of the posts on these forums, and watching the brave Youtube videos posted, I have come to the conclusion that this is a step I must take for myself, my business, my family and those I love.

I really don't like shopping for clothes anymore in Women's Dept --- what I want, and what is available in my size, are two very different things. It's funny, the perception of what type of body I think I have and the one I actually have. Shoes --- I cannot wear cute shoes because my feet are too wide, and I broke a bone in the ball of my foot, and because of my weight, cute shoes really hurt.

I want to be more active -- take my 14 year old niece hiking, biking or a sport we both can learn. When she graduates from high school in 3 years or when she gets married, I don't want to be the obese auntie. I don't want her to be embarrassed to be seen with me (although, she would never say it to me, she would never hurt my feelings).

I am glad I stumbled upon this site. I feel as though it's a place where the support and advice are genuine.