Why I am anonymous

HI all,

I wanted to explain why I am anonymous on this board.  I would really like to be more open and post my photo and use my real name.  I feel like a chicken that I don't because I appreciate all of you being so open and feel I should be doing the same.

I work for a politician. I am his top aide so I have a rather high profile job that puts me in touch with almost every segment of the community from hospitals, labor unions, Chamber of Commerce chapters, reporters, teachers, police officers, and so on.  Due to what I do for a living, I'd rather not have to explain to a lot of people about my surgery, when you work for a politician you need to be concerned that anything you do comes back to who you work for (drunk driving, taking money under the table, being a drunk in public, ect). and it's way too small of a world to not bump into someone who knows you or knows you by one degree of seperation. I also want to feel free to express my feelings and concerns.

Just felt I needed to throw that out there because I do love how open and honest everyone on this board is.  Hopefully I am not being overly concerned, but in my line of work you're better safe than sorry!!

Thanks all,

MsBlues

Thanks for sharing.  There are many people on these board who choose not to have their profile and pictures public...We understand.  Some people may be famous on these boards, some attorneys, some doctors, some have ex-husband-wife issues.  I see no problems with being anomymous here.  I would encourage you to make it to the local support group if you can...just for the support.  No need to share about yourself...but you will see what others are going though and be able to support newbies.  But that is totally your choice.  We're here for support and glad you're a part of the Cali Board.  Brian

You don't need to explain Blue.  Everyone is here for their own reasons.  Many on here have been burned badly by other members at various times in the past.  It happened to me and I just retreated into my own world and went away from here.  If you need to be carefull, it is perfectly understandable.

The point of this forum is to get support and offer support.  However that works for you is all that matters.  I would ask you, however, to understand that many who have been burned might be less likely to embrace your annonymity for fear that you are not who you really say you are.  But I wouldn't let that stop you from reaching out.

By the way, I was just up in your neck of the woods a couple of weeks ago.  Went to the Garlic Festival and then visited with family in Santa Cruz.  Actually got up early Sunday morning and walked down to the beach to cheer on the runners in the wharf to wharf race.  It was a great weekend.  You have a beautiful city in Santa Cruz.  My Mike lived there when he first moved to CA and his niece is still there.

Anyway, hope you are having a great weekend.  Relax and enjoy the beautiful weather in Santa Cruz.

Stephanie

No need to explain or apologize...I don't put my town in my avatar either.

It's all good!!!!!  I appreciate the support I get from you online and reading your posts!!!

Hugs,

Jackie

Ms. Blues,

Totally understandable.  I hope you don't short change yourself and not come to some of the gatherings though, our Nor Cal lunch is a hoot and a great place for friendship and support for pre and post ops.  We're a pretty nice group too, if I do say so myself LOL.

Hugs and friendship,
Barb

Hey MsBlues...I understand!!

My good friend also works in politics as a campaign manager for a congressional candidate. She had the lap-band late last year and is doing fabulous.  Her weight-loss has been discussed by critics on political blogs and she has also chosen to remain quiet about what she's done to lose weight...

You know, it's a funny thing about women and weight. Her weight should bear no reflection on her professional credibilty, political stance or even be a topic of discussion. She's had some awful insulting things written about her size/weight. If she were a man, I doubt it would be that big of a deal....

So keep on posting, we're here for you. :)

Hi Monica,

I can't believe your friend had her surgery end up on political blogs!! Unbelievable!  I hope she isn't too upset by this or is able to look at the source and dismiss the overt cruelty. My question is how does making fun of someone's weight lend to supporting your political opinions???

I agree that being a woman increases the chances big time that people will discuss your size and weight.  I also think it doesn't matter if your are fat or thin. If she were very thin, they' would accuse her of having an eating disorder. 

Thanks for sharing this with me. It provides validation that staying MsBlues is probably a good idea.

MsBlues