Why weight loss surgery?

My decision to have weight loss surgery was not one that happened over night. In fact, it took over 3 years, lots of research, many discussions, and even more research. My struggle with my weight has gone on much longer, though. It took me many failed diets, frustration, tears, and acceptance that if I don’t do something to change that I will have many unwanted problems in the future.

For a long time, I worried about what others would think if I made this decision. I thought people might see it as a cop out, a short cut, the “easy way out”. I don’t know whether it was my husband telling me numerous times not to care what other people think, or if it was me realizing that this is MY life, and I want to have a better life (probably a combination of the two). The decision doesn’t affect the nay-sayers… so why should I let their opinions affect me? I’m not sure why I let that influence my decision for so long, but when it comes down to it, the people who would not support me aren’t people I want in my life anyways.

Some people have asked me why, and others seem afraid to ask. I have multiple reasons, some I’m sure I’m not even aware of yet. My overall reason- I want to have a better quality of life. I want to be healthy, and active. I want to be able to keep up with my children (when that time in our life comes). I want to prevent the many side effects of being overweight. I want to enjoy so many little things that too many people take for granted.

I’m anxious and excited, and I know this will definitely be an experience I will remember.