My quest to beginning WLS is a topic that many face today. With a growing society becoming obese, our nation is faced with an abundance of health issues. My decision towards this path was pondered upon for many years. Sad to say, I was one of the people that thought badly about the procedure. Not that I thought it wasn’t necessary but I began to see many being approved for this surgery without pre-existing conditions. I guess I didn’t view a person at the height of 5’7 at 240-250 pounds obese. I thought for them it was the “easy” way out. After all, when you live in a society that says everyone should be a size 4 and your family is mainly built of plus- size people you don’t realize portions as most do. Nonetheless, I found myself contemplating gastric bypass.
After years of depression and self-loathing I packed on pounds that threatened my future and my ability to be an active mom. The only difference was, I wasn’t the slightly chubby 240lb woman. I stepped on the scale, heart racing in fear of the added pounds I knew I had gained. I was then looking at my heaviest weight ever which was a massive 383lbs. My quality of life at that time was non-existent. Even though my appearance on the outside never flawed. Rather, i bounced insecurely with flowing hair into corporate offices, or applied my makeup with precision, or wore clothes to accent the positive or unleashed a hence of arrogance towards the people around me; no one could notice that I was dying from the inside out. My false outer exterior couldn’t foul my increased cholesterol, rising blood pressure, strained muscles and bones, frequently recurring depression, and lack of energy to live life to the fullest.
I had to begin fighting for my survival. So when I made this life altering journey with eyes open, I don’t hesitate to say that this is the best path my life could have taken. After consultations with Doctors and multiple specialists I got questions answered about this major surgery. Fully aware of the complications that could happen and I clearly understood what daily life changes I would have to make in order for me to be successful.
I lay scared but hopeful as they wheeled me in the operating room. It was finally happening. My life was about to positively change and I was looking forward to the healthier more outgoing me. So as a 4 month post op patient I smile widely as I step on my elliptical to begin my 5 mile workout because I know that along with this surgery, my lifestyle changes and my courage is what gave me “my life” back. I’m 70+ pounds lighter, a mass stronger and loving my path to RNY.
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