- Hello -

I am new to this site and I hope that it gives me the support that I need. I am 66 years old. I tried to get this surgery for 3 years before medicare decided to pay for it. I had a very difficult time finding a doctor and a hospital that were medicare approved. That was almost two years ago and the only doctor and hospital that I could find was in Wichita Falls, TX. There was not one in Dallas or Ft. Worth. Needless to say two years later there are many medicare approved facilities. We, anyway, my doctor and his support group is about 125 miles away from me and I only try to make meetings when they coinside with my doctor appointments.

When I first got in to see my doctor in July, 2006, I wieghed 267. My gastric by-pass surgery was 10/26/06. This morning, I weighed in at 159. I really don't want to lose anymore. My doctor told me to stay at 170 - but .... Three months ago I was diagnoised with kidney cancer and had my kidney removed 10 days ago.

I have spent my life raising 3 children on my own and trying to better myself in my career. Years ago, I pasted a smile on my face, straightened my shoulders and faced life. I hid the lonliness and depression under this facade and gained more and more weight. I have been married to my second husband for almost 24 years. I knew that he was ashamed of my and his references to by being fat hurt. He didn't do it often, but I can remember each and every time. It's amazing what memories we women have.

I am so proud of the younger women who have taken charge of their lives early - however.... I would love to find people closer to my age that I can share my thoughts and feelings with. It will be wonderful to have a real support system.

Your Friend from N. Texas

'lo there Friend!
There are lots of us here! I'm 58 and can relate. Our common struggle
for better looks and improved health overrides age, gender and just about
everything else, I think. I'm always awed at the info I get from all sectors
of this community! You've come to the right place! Ask
lots of questions and post when you can. We're listening and talking, too!

Hi Friend and welcome to the neighborhood! I too am 58 and most of my adult life I have been obese. My surgery was on July 31st of '07 so I am still honeymooning! I am down from 260 to 171 and have 21 more pounds to go til goal. That said, I have learned so much here that has kept me rock steady in my journey to better health. This is a wonderful place for the support you are looking for.

Welcome FRIEND!

I am SO glad you have chosen to join us and even more glad to see you got your surgery! KUDO'S to YOU for NOT GIVING UP! While I not yet in your age range I will be FFFFFFFifty this year! lol.. My name is Julie and nicknamed in the hood as SUNSHINE .

I travel alot and in fact just got back but glad to see the new changes in our neighborhood and new friends that have joined us.

My father is 71 and briefly talked about the surgery. I love to hear when older folks have gone through it and wished still that he would to possibly add some more years to his life. Luckily he is in great health besides the weight.

I look forward to sharing your journey with you and getting to know you better!!!

Again welcome!! We are GLAD YOU ARE HERE WITH US!!

Julie

Northern California and 4 years post op on Feb. 19th. YAHOO! Now lower than i've every been but still working on going lower!! Proof that the POUCH STILL WORKS if you choose to WORK IT!

Welcome to our Neighborhood Friend! And I am glad to call you Friend!

I appreciate your unique story and look forward to learning more from you. Have your comorbidities diminished since losing the weight? How has your life changed? Are you holding your head proudly now?

I understand about comment recollection. It is so much easier to dismiss the compliments while the track of negativity plays over and over in the brain. I wish for you peace and comfort with your self and those who are important to you.

Welcome to our Neighborhood, Friend. Glad to have you here.