Weight Loss Survey Responses

The following are Linda W.'s responses to the Weight Loss Survey:

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

Although in my adult years I had learned to eat for comfort, I have faced that issue and am learning to be more aware of why and when I eat. However, I have still not lost weight to the extent that I was not considered to be obese. For me, just to eat healthy, and exercise has never been enough, even though I have been deluded into thinking that it might work. I have always thought that I was less than attractive, and sometimes even ugly. I have often identified with the hunchback of Notre Dame. My appearance has seemed void of any merit or hope.

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

Not being able to feel like I belong in today's society, even though there are so many of 'us'. The stigma and societal ignorance attached to being obese is more than anyone can bear. Being unacceptable to those who should 'love' me, but only use their words to wound and tear at my esteem. Not being able to tie my shoes, shave my legs, cut my toenails, get dressed without running out of breath. In a crowd of walkers, I'm always the last one, and no one seems to want to keep pace with me. I'm supposed to keep up with them. Finding clothes to fit, and pants that won't wear holes between the legs.

How did you first find out about bariatric surgery and what were your initial impressions of it?

I found an ad in the coupon section of the Sunday newspaper. It talked about the Bariatric Treatment Centers' answer to the never ending weight loss war. I looked up the web site (bariatric.com) and called the 800 number. My initial impression was MAJOR caution. I continued to research the surgery for a period of five months. I finally called to schedule my consultation. I'm looking forward to my new life.