Maybe you will struggle with this as well. There is the impression that bariatric surgery is "the easy way out" and "just diet" is the answer. For those of us who have struggled with weight loss, who lose only to gain it back (and then some), who watch "skinny" friends and colleagues eat huge amounts of fatty foods, we know that there is another factor at work. Some of us "store" food as fat much more easily. Yes, I sometimes make bad choices, and this Christmas was no exception, but generally you will see me eating "bunny food" (salads), Slim Fast bars and Lean Cuisine dinners. I drink 1% milk and read the labels of almost everything I buy. Easy way out? You and I know this is not the case.
The question remains: Shall I say, "I just watch what I eat and exercise", which would be true enough, or shall I enlighten and tell those who comment on my weight loss (once it happens) about the wonders of bariatric surgery?
The only thing about telling others is be sure that you are 100% sure that you want to share. If you have even an inkling of regret and tell you might regret it...so choosing the right time is up to you and something you should consider heavily. Many find they have regrets in that area. Some of us chose to be pioneers in spreading the word of WLS. Others find they didn't want to tell, but after a few months decided to because they felt like shouting from the rooftops. Whatever you choose is the right decision for you.
ReplyDeleteI look forward to following your journey :)
Hi David,
ReplyDeleteThanks for blogging your journey. I, for one, appreciate it and intend to follow along with you. I am scheduled for my Roux-en-Y at Barix Ypsilanti on Jan 21st. (just 17 days, 7 hours and 30 minutes away)
Who to tell, whether or not to tell, etc. is a BIG decision for me as well. My husband and 4 kids(young adults) know and I have told 2 best friends and my Pastor. I generally live my life very authentically so this feels odd to me and even false, but until I am sure that I want to broadcast it I plan to tell no one else. I live in a very small community which makes it harder. Not telling gets more difficult as I get closer to my date, and I am having trouble with scheduling life events etc. because I just won't be able to do certain things, keep certain commitments etc. and yet I am unwilling to say why, so I am uncharacteristically very vague. This is where it is difficult because I am generally very open. Just a couple more weeks and the surgery will be done, and then I will have a new perspective re: telling vs not telling, etc.
All the best to you, and I'll keep you posted.
Gail
I am so proud of you. You are going to do amazing, and I look forward to your journey.
ReplyDeleteJudy