Not Telling People....

[pretty-pink 43]

I spent 7-8 months considering & researching WLS. Prior to surgery I told a double handful of friends & family. I took 8 weeks off after surgery & lost about 55#. When I returned to work, it was obvious I had lost weight. I have many co-workers that range from heavy to morbidly obese. By being open about my surgery, I feel like I am giving them helpful info about this life-saving tool.

It makes me feel good when my co-workers ask, "how much have you lost so far?" along with the compliments. It helps keep me accountable. If by being open about my surgery it helps just one obese person to consider surgery for themselves, it's worth it to me! I'm proud of having the sleeve!!

My surgeon sent me a pic of my removed stomach. I have no shame showing that pic to anyone who'll look. Lol.

[Lexy 8]

I have told the people that I socialize with the most because we eat out with some of them once or twice a week. We are also all friends with a few people who have had bypass surg. and have witnessed their success. However, I have not told my mother, sisters or in laws. The only family who knows are my kids and husband. So, tomorrow is Christmas and I am on liquids only. I have decided to tell my mom and sisters because they will think it odd that I am not eating. The reason I have not told them is because I thought they may try to talk me out of it. We all share the obesity gene, some fight it more than others, but we have seen each other yo-yo over and over again on every diet known to man, since the mid 1960s. I'm hoping I find support from them. Surgery is just another tool to help us reach our weight loss goals. We will forever be watching our diet and exercising, or we will put it back on. It is not a "cop out" or "the easy way out" and, in fact, it is not easy. To tell anyone beyond family or close friends is definitely something I would do if I believe, that by sharing my experience, I can help them make a decision that could lead to a positive change in their life.