I met with a psychiatrist yesterday for my evaluation. Honestly, I was a little stressed prior to the meeting. I didn't think for a minute that I wouldn't "pass" I just wasn't looking forward to opening up to someone new and unknown. I was afraid of breaking down into tears or feeling interrogated. 
Good news, I was made to feel comfortable, welcome and unridiculed. I was asked to explain the dynamics of the surgery, was asked if I was aware of the possible side-effects, answered questions about my eating habits and a few questions to test my competence. I was a bit flustered and probably didn't come across as clear headed as I would have liked, but I have always suffered from test anxiety. No worries though- it was all good. And in the end, I was told I was a perfect candidate for surgery- whew. 
I have already met with the nutritionist and physical therapist, now I have to meet with my own doctor to receive clearance and participate in the sleep study. Oh- and I have to give up smoking. Wow. Admittedly, I love an after dinner smoke but after smoking for more years than I am willing to reveal- I can honestly say I am ready to kick the habit. Despite the adverse health effects, the havoc smoking plays on my skin and my ability to breath; it's becoming unfashionable. And in not so distant future, I am sure the prices of cigarettes will soar to prices that only a coocoo would pay. I hear that currently, on the east coast, cigarettes cost upwards of $13 a pack! If only my Mother could quit too.

I have thought about having WLS for over two years now. I have been heavy since college and am nearing my fortieth birthday. I am cleaning out my retirement accounts to pay for this. No, there is no chance my insurance will cover it, not for any reason for anybody.
I am nervous, I am worried I will feel ill and miss food. But the facts are- I always feel miserable now. Not mentally but physically. I have constant acid reflux (because I eat like a pig and choose the wrong foods), chronic Achilles tendinitis,  the overall condition of my skin is hideous, I am diagnosed with hypothyroidism and hypertension. 
I am basically in pain all the time, and spend my summers doing little to nothing. I am a teacher and have summers off. My work season is grueling. So tired, barely able to wake and nauseated. 
If I don't do something- I'll never live to use my retirement money anyways. 
I am waiting for a Psych Eval. I have to clean out my accounts, do a sleep study. And most likely, my surgery will take place around X-Mas, unless I luck out and things fall into place- it could happen as soon as next week.