First, I apologize. I have fallen off the face of the blogging universe. When my life becomes stressed or overwhelming, I tend to move this to the very bottom of my priority list.

In the past few months, my dad has had multiple heart attacks, a stroke, bypass surgery; we have had diagnoses of cancer from a couple different family members; work had a change in fiscal years and my girls’ have finished another school year and are making their way through summer vacation. Whew! 

Since early December, 2013, I have been in the process of getting my ducks in a row in order to have a gastric bypass. I had to be evaluated by a cardiologist, endocrinologist, pulmonologist, psychiatrist, as well as my regular doctor. I also had to attend six months worth of nutrition classes and support groups.

“You don’t need that!” —about 60% of the people who learn of my plans. *sigh*

Thank you for thinking that, but it is not helpful. I am currently on 4 daily prescription medications, as well as a CPAP. I struggle to exercise because of my weight. Stairs are difficult. And most of all, I want to life a long, healthy life to see my girls grow up.

“My second cousin’s neighbor’s sister-in-law’s niece had that and it was awful!”— yes, I know there are risks. I have heard the horror stories. Again, they are not helpful. I used to get labor horror stories when I was pregnant. Stop it, people! Why do you do this??? I am not that person. I have met with my doctors and surgeon. I know what is best for me.

Through this process, I have learned a lot about nutrition, metabolism, and diet. I have changed the way I eat (I don’t drink while I eat) and have set myself up for the best-possible outcome.

My final pre-surgical appointment is tomorrow. I will meet with the surgeon to go over all of the clearances I have had and to discuss what will happen next. I have been on a 100% liquid diet (800 calories a day, max) since Sunday. My surgery is set for July 22.

I was texting with a friend who has also been through this process. He is the one who suggested I blog about it, so here you go, Chris!!! Thank you for the idea and I will try to maintain this written journey.

My daughter took this picture on Sunday. It is my ‘before’ picture. In it, I weigh 239.6lbs. I have not settled on a final goal. Honestly, I have never been thin, so I have no idea what a realistic goal would be! 140lbs? 170lbs? 125lbs?

Welcome to my journey…let’s get this thing going!