Matt Foster

I just want to say thank you to everyone who contributed their stories here, and also those who messaged me privately. This has helped me so much! I have to admit that the surgery sounds great in the abstract but it's really great to hear from real people who've been through it so I can start to visualize what my life will be like... and what I can do to make the most of it. You all are the greatest! <3

Hi everyone! Quick introduction... my name is Matt. And I've been winding my way through the process to go through bariatric surgery through my local provider. The surgeon determined that because of other medical issues, that the Sleeve Gastrectomy would be the right procedure for me. It wasn't my first choice, but his explanation made sense and seems sound. I'll be up front and say that one of the requirements of the program is that we have to talk to ten people who've had bariatric surgery already and find out about their experiences. I've heard from a lot of people from the referral list that the doctor gave me to try contacting and it's actually been really helpful. So even if at first it was something I had to check the box on, I've gotten a huge amount of insight out of it. But I've come up a little short, and I'm hoping some of you guys can help me out. If a couple of you could just tell me what the surgery was actually like for you compared to your expectations, and how you adapted over the next few months and beyond that would be a huge help! Then I should just be able to print off this forum thread and include it in my surgical packet. But like I said, it goes way beyond that. I know I'm taking a huge step in a few months, and the closer it gets the more real this decision is beginning to feel. I really appreciate any help you all can provide! Thank you so much!