Newbie in the Group - Introductory Post

[Guest guest]

Hello everyone!

I'm Jen and I'm in the process of preparing for the Gastric Bypass

Surgery in the Northern Virginia area (surgery would be at the

Washington University Hospital in DC).

I've been researching and trying to come to a decision about this

surgery for two years now. I'm 35 yrs. old, weighing about 290lbs.

About 4 years ago, I lost 75lbs through Weight Watchers, hit a plateau

that I stuck with for a year and a half (trying everything to shake it

and no luck). I've kept half of that weight off and now feel as

though the surgery is a possibility that I refused to consider in the

past.

This is a ridiculous thing to say in a way, but *besides* my

significant obesity, I'm an energetic, fairly " in-shape " person

without other complications...yet, anyway! In some ways, I feel like

I'm considering this prematurely, but I keep coming back to the fact

that I don't WANT to be in a position down the road when I'm

considering this because I'm in poorer health and *need* it more

urgently.

I know my body and my history (and my statistics) very well - kind of

an academic personality! For many years now, I have not turned a

blind eye to my weight. Had I not been a weight-loss and fitness

fanatic for a steady number of years, I would criticize myself for not

trying more conventional methods of weight-loss before looking at a

bypass. But now, feeling that I've given those methods my best shot -

I just don't know.

I'd like some support - particularly in the form of talking with

people who have been in my age group and can relate to my history.

I'm in the last two months of the preparation process with the Kaiser

Nutritionist and about halfway to my 10% goal. I've heard many

stories of the tremendous risks and some successes and I'm looking

more for the " average " experience - if there is such a thing here!

I also know that I'll need to be very individualistic about how I cope

with the post-surgery process and pace. I think I can do that, but

I'd like to gather as much practical information as I can at this

stage.

Apologies for the long post. I appreciate any replies and would like

to be active with this group while I'm finalizing my decision and, of

course, through the process if I decide to go ahead.

I'm sure I've left out details that would be helpful to know about

me. I'm happy to answer questions!

Thank you all so much,

Jen