Weight Loss Survey Responses

The following are Jeanette T.'s responses to the Weight Loss Survey:

Describe your behavioral and emotional battle with weight control before learning about bariatric surgery.

Battle really describes this whole business of weight control. Because I was very thin as a child, and quite a picky eater, I was encouraged to eat. I can't say that my mother was a believer in the "clean-plate" club, though, she just wanted to find something that I liked. Thus I was rewarded for being a "good" eater. Throughout my adult life, I have struggled with keeping weight off. Have lost about 500 # and gained back about 600. Pills, liquids, fat doctors, exercise, fasting, Dr.Atkins, Weight Watchers, Phen=fen, a JIB in 1978 reversed in 1992. Nutritionist and Cardiac Rehab etc. Emotionally, it is a hopeless, helpless feeling. This year, I've gained 30 lbs. I can no longer exercise adequately. Yet I continue to eat, perhaps due to being depressed about this weight and what I know it has done to my life.

What was (is) the worst thing about being overweight?

Poor health!

What was your first visit with your surgeon like? How can people get the most out of this meeting?

Read the literature provided and utilize the resources on the internet. Prepare your questions in writing for presentation when you see your doctor for consultation. I didn't have all my questions written down and so forgot some of the things I wanted to know.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

Realizing that I have gained 30 lbs since last year this time. That I am short of breath on least exertion. That I am taking 19 different pills a day and feel like I am 20 yrs older than I really am.