Laura - Welcome to the AMOS board! I'm a pre-op member here too (my surgery is scheduled for Sept 17th!) and have found that it's very helpful to read as many profiles as possible. (I also struggle with degenerative arthritis in my back, knees and one ankle and am hoping to find relief after WLS.) I’ll warn you now that this site is addictive! In preparation for my surgery I’ve spent the last several months copying and pasting things that resonate with me, post-op tips etc. into my own file. The road to WLS can be a long and bumpy one and I know that it sure is nice to have your AMOS family along for moral support! I pray that you will always feel at home here and will be posting news of your own progress before too long! Good luck with your surgery consult on the 20th!