For the first time of this journey, I questioned myself

Thanks so much, Jan.  I truly appreciate the support.  It's so encouraging that your health has improved.  Keep up the great job!!!

Hi Rosey,
Everyone needs to go through their own "process" when considering something life-changing such as this. Our relatives and friends are thrown into the process with no information. I used to say that their was no way that I would do this- it seemed too radical and I had heard stories about it from many years back. At a certain point I decided that I had to look at it again, rationally. I have since found many physicians that have reassured me that it was the absilute best thing I could have done to improve my life. They can't believe that the insurance companies can deny it since the research (newer research) shows that it is highly successful for many individuals - including ME! I am very happy with my decision- and even those who worried the most prior to my surgery are thrilled that I have a new life! You are a very strong person to have made this decision and done all that it takes to be ready for the surgery. stay confident and try to relax into the days ahead. We'll help you along.
Julia

Thanks so much, Julie.  I'm almost there now....I just need to stay focused and positive.

Your brother-in-law wouldn't have elective surgery, huh?  I think he may not be clearly understanding the terminology.  Elective surgery is surgery done by the choice of the patient or the doctor, as opposed to urgent or emergency surgery that must be done to save a life, limb, or organ.  A hip replacement is an example of elective surgery.  Is the hip-replacement patient doing it for fun?  No, and neither are you.

Even if you don't have co-morbidities (obesity-related health problems), bariatric surgery is not cosmetic surgery.  It can make you live longer (by preventing co-morbidities) and vastly improve the quality of your life. 

A breast cancer patient who has reconstructive surgery after a mastectomy is having elective surgery.  Her new breasts won't prevent cancer recurrence or any other health problems, but few people would criticize her for having reconstructive surgery.  Most people would feel that she deserves to regain at least a semblance of a "normal" body for the sake of her self-esteem and quality of life.  Bariatric surgery can do the exact same thing for someone suffering from the serious disease of obesity, but somehow it gets judged as frivolous.

If my brother-in-law made a comment like that to me, I'd say something rude to him that I won't spell out here.  If you care about this guy, you could say something milder like, "That would be your decision.  This is my body and any surgery done to it is MY decision."

Jean

Jean, thanks for your input and support.  I understand completely what you are saying and also feel I'm well prepared and not jumping into this blindly.  I truly hope it cures my diabetes....fingers crossed here.

Your family is concerned for you.  That is a good thing.  It means they love you.  Any surgery can have a problem, hence their concern. 

BUT...  This is something you are doing, an elective surgery which your family will reap the benefits of.  It means you can grow old playing with your grandchildren.  It could be the difference between your grandchildren attending your funeral, or you attending their high school graduation.

My wife was in a wheelchair prior to her WLS.  Now she gets in trouble for running in the house with the grandkids.  That is such a great problem to have!!!