How to best discuss my surgery with children?

[NewStart 2017 2]

I've been struggling with the best way to discuss/explain my surgery with my kids. I have a 17 year old son and 11 year old daughter that I want to make sure understand what's going on, but I don't want them to worry. I also want to be sensitive to the issues of dieting and health in general and not over discuss it with them. I just want to be sure both understand the importance of heathy diet and exercise. Neither of my children have weight issues and both are very active. Any feedback on how others have approached this with their children would be much appreciated.

[4TheHealthOfIt 32]

My kids are a bit younger than your's and have some special needs. I didn't want to worry them and may divulge more as time goes on as it's clearly a life change. What I told them is that I was going to have a procedure that would help me be more active, healthy and allow me to do more things with them. They have seen my staples, my post-op liquid diet and my woozy first days of pain.
Good luck to you!

[GwenSue 10]

I told my 7 year old son what I'm having done and when far ahead of time. He understands it's a tool to help me live longer and do more things with him. He's been very supportive and goes on hikes with me. He has Autism, so telling him and preparing him for everything will help make it go smoothly when I'm in the hospital.

Including them in your journey to being healthy and fit will help them be healthy teens and adults and not end up where we did.