ShellBear 26 Posted May 2, 2011 Good morning all, my name is Shelly. I have just started my journey with WLS, my Doctor sent in the referral last week and now I am waiting to get a call to schedule my orientation with the surgery center (Kaiser Northern Cali). I have been trying for three years to talk my Doctor in to putting in this referral and I finally succeeded! I am Diabetic and suffer from back and hip pain on a daily basis. I can't wait for the day that I can walk around my block without the extreme pain I experience now. I am 5'4" and weigh about 240 lbs (BMI 40), I always tell myself if "I was just a little taller the weight would even out a little". But I can't stretch myself, anymore than I can lose 100 lbs overnight. I have been reading so much about the Gastric Sleeve surgery and all your thoughts and words of encouragement have been extremely helpful. I just wanted to introduce myself and say thanks to all for sharing your thoughts and experiences. Looking forward to making some new friends! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites