Never saw this one coming...

Apr 08, 2009

In previous posts, I wrote about how I was offered a full time professorship this year after working at the university for 5 years. Well, that was surprising enough. Today, I was really shocked.
The Executive VP of operations called me in for a meeting "to talk". Hummm...I had lots of thoughts running through my mind but I assumed they might want to decided to stop paying for my tuition. I could deal with that because of economic hardships and the fact that we all still got a 4% raise. Our university is doing well. But, again, the economy is rocky.
When I sat down, I got usual reaffirmations about how valuable I was. It's nice to get stroked with affirmations. But, then, he asked if I would be willing to take over the high school student initiative program. In Ohio, our gov. has decided to give grants to universities who are willing to do on-site college courses in high schools so students get dual credit...high school and college. Essentially, he asked me to be the PR person for the university with the local high schools counselors, principals and boards. I almost laughed...not that I didn't want the job...but that the job was actually being offered. After they promised me a fat raise with very little additional time added to my schedule, I couldn't help but to think back to my pre-DS days. Needless to say, I certainly wasn't the "PR type". But, there I sat in a beautifully tailored size 8 black and grey pinstriped suit with my size 24W only a distance memory. After I gladly accepted the position (I didn't need time to think about it...frankly, I also didn't want them to change their minds), I got in my car and broke down in tears. Who would have ever thought that weight loss could bring so much more opportunity?
As I was driving home, I called my dad to tell him of the offer and my shock. I couldn't even get to the shock part before he said "Do you think it has anything to do with your surgery?" I laughed. I was also glad that I wasn't the only one thinking it.
I know I've written it before, but I just have to say it again here and now. If you're reading this and are on the fence about WLS or trying to decide which one to have, I can not tell you with enough emphasis how wonderful the DS has been for me and what a wonderful impact it has had on my life. My post op diet is remarkable..."unbelievable" as my peers say. I've been maintaining my weight for about 6 months without any effort. I could also lose more if I wanted but I'm thrilled and healthy where I am now. I also have to say that it's something you have to live to understand. There's really no words to express the relief that WLS can bring.

1 Comment