I have just started walking this path. I have tried a couple diets but stopped them after a couple months. The thought of after I lose this weight what is to keep me from gaining it all back kept me from being able to do them with any amount of success.
I'm 6'1" and my current weight is around 360. I take a pill for blood pressure and one to get my good cholesterol up. 2014 I was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. Not high enough to warrant meds, the doctor asked me to cut my sugar intake and come back in 6 months. I cut the sugar but missed the appointment. A year later did the same blood test and the sugar was low enough that the diagnosis was no longer needed.
Overall I'm doing well. However; my right ankle and Knee both give me problems. The ligaments around my ankle are so week that I can turn / twist my ankle walking across a smooth surface. It just gives out. By extension, this is now causing problems with my knee. I know at some point I will need replacement surgery on either or both, but my current weight is not helping either.
But ultimately there were a few things that have influence my decision.
1. A very close friend of mine, through high school and college died of a heart attack about 2 or 3 years ago. He was in the army, was healthy and very fit. Did all the things your supposed to do to be healthy. He was in OTC and died of a massive heart attack. The doctors on base where never able to determine the cause.
2. Another friend of mine, pretty much the opposite of the previous (more like me) was driving home one night, had a heart attack and lost control of his car. Crashed and died instantly.
3. My step son got married last year. There where photos of course. I knew I was a big guy, but did not realize how big until I saw the photos after the wedding. I realized then that I needed to do something or I would end up in a much worse situation or dead.
During the last year or so I've also been going through a divorce. Not nasty by any means, but my EX would not sign off on the paperwork; unlike others I know that have gone through similar situations, I ate more and gained weight because of the anxiety of getting this done with.
I'll be seeing my Doctor next month for refills on my meds and I plan on bringing up the Sleeve with him while I am there. I need help and I need to loose weight and I can't do it on my own. My Ex had the RNY done 4 years ago, so I am a little more prepared for some of what may happen after the surgery.
I'm ready to start this new journey, i just hope I can get the go ahead from my doctor. I'm ready for a better future.