Just wanted to say a quick howdy to everyone. I've been on a neighborhood watch now for a couple of weeks, but wanted to finally jump in with both feet. My name is Debbie, and I just had my EGD this morning. In two weeks I'll find out from my surgeon if my planned Lap RNY is a go. I'm hoping for early April.

I have to mention how empowered I've become since reading this website. My husband and son are wonderful people but they really don't understand why I need this surgery. Some other close friends are also skeptical and scared for me. I've finally figured out that I don't have to convince anyone else. And that is extremely freeing. I just smile, hug, listen, and say, "It's OK, I've done my research ... now fasten your seat belts; it's going to be an exciting ride!"

How wonderful to know that here in the hood, I'm among people who KNOW what I've been through before WLS. And in 2008, I will be joining you for the best chapter of my life.

Debbie! We are go glad to have you as a member of the n'hood! Please visit often, post often and keep us updated on your progress...rooting for your surgery to be asap!!!

I am almost a 5yr veteran (this March) and I have not gotten as much support, good advice, and nutritional information as I have gotten since joining this n'hood in November...this truly is the BEST n'hood around!

Hope you feel right at home! Blessings!

Hi Deb O & Welcome!

I'm glad that you've been watching the talk in here. You have seen what post op life is truly like. As you can see, the surgery isn't the "easy way out" and we all have to really work at living the life. Some days are up days, some, not so much, but through it all, we've found that posting here helps us keep our focus and our commitment.

It makes me happy to know that you want to be here with us, that you're ready to make the commitment to this new life. This is an exciting, sometimes scary ride, but I can tell you, I wouldn't go back.

So please, keep posting, don't be afraid to ask anything. Someone, and probably many will have some information for you!

Best wishes and good luck getting your April date!

Welcome Deb O:

Your post was well written and has a ring of truth for many of us on here. Your journey will be infinitely more enjoyable and easier since you have joined the neighborhood. Avail yourself of all the resources here and get ready for the changes in your life......

Hi Deb and welcome to the neighborhood! Glad to see that you are here pre-op. It is the best thing you could do for yourself to continue gathering information before your surgery. Going in with your eyes wide open and well prepared will make it all go much smoother for you. I hope you come often and soak up the information that is available here!

Welcome Deb O!
I like you came to this site last year 2 months before my surgery. BEST thing I could have ever done for myself. The Hood keeps you real and offers such support and encouragement. It Truly is th best place I feel I can be while on this lifelong rollercoaster! So keeps us posted on your pre-op progress and be prepared. Once my surgery was approved I had my Date in 3 weeks!

I joined about a week before my surgery & have always felt so welcome. Ask your questions, read everything you can & know that we are just a few clicks away!

Good Luck!

Hi, Deb O! Welcome to the neighborhood.
Congratulations on your decision to take back your life.

How empowering, to realize that you don't have to convince everyone that you have to have this surgery, to just explain that this is your decision and get one with life! You are one smart lady, and we are really glad that you jumped in with both feet and let us get to know you! Keep on posting and telling us about you!

Howdie and welcome! Sweet, another pre-op. I love your attitude. You are very correct, you do not need to convince anyone. I hope you post often, ask questions and find the support and information you are looking for.

Deb,

Welcome to the neighborhood!
I agree with your logic - no one needs convincing.

Welcome to the neighborhood Deb! Your post had such a positive energy to it...you are rally looking at this surgery the right way, as a tool for your future! I can't wait to read about your journey along the path to getting healthy! Post alot please!

Hi Deb!

As you can see we have had a lot of pre-surgery members here. You have lots of advice and support and just keep reminding yourself that you are doing this for YOU 1st. It is your health you have to take care of before you can take care of others...

Welcome!!

Welcome to the Neighborhood!