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I came across the app while I was searching for info on dumping syndrome. I was able to join the bariatric program funded by our Alberta Health Care (provincial insurance everyone gets), because of my high bmi and weight related illnesses. Which where high bp and sleep apnea. I had to loose 10% of my weight to get approved for the surgery, which I did great at initially. Like I have done well with my whole life. But I have a adrenal tumor that took about a year for them to figure out it's not doing anything to me, and my kidneys are the cause of subsiquential steroid issue. Then I had some complications with excessive scar growth from the other 7 surgeries I had (mostly baby related). So a little over 2 years later I had my surgery. I am currently a week post-op and am having trouble with dumping syndrome.

I got the surgery to help me be healthier. With the Bariatric program I am in they teach you healthy eating habits and set nutrition goals for you. You have to keep a food journal, be (or become a non-smoker) and attend monthly meetings. There is also a psychologist to help you through any hurdles. They will also preform a free panniculectomy after you have maintained your weight for about 6 months. I have found that the older I've gotten my weight is very hard on any activities I attempt and previously enjoyed. That was probably my biggest influence on wanting the surgery. My original bmi was 42.

I have 2 kids. My daughter is 22 and is on her own. My son is 15. I have an amazingly supportive boyfriend. I had already started in the program when I met him. He loved me the way I was but would love me no matter what weight I was. Even told me I don't need the surgery. But I didn't start this journey for my looks although it is definitely a HUGE HUGE HUGE benefit, probably 50% of the reason as I've had body image issues. Soooo... here I am, post-op of a gastric sleeve.