Shaneika F.
Finally, I need to release my story. I dont recall a moment in my adult life that I was weight healthy. It took me from the age of 17 to 22 to accept the fact that I was a plus size girl. THEN after getting married in 1998 & gaining that type of acceptance from a man - I packed on the pounds in record time.
I have always been the "big" girl of the group. Growing up I was always the earlier developed girl, the bigger girl in the classroom and because of that I was teased from all people but because I tend to be extremely shy and welcoming, they tended to be my friend in "secret".
At the size that I am now, I realize that I was in my prime when I was 18-21. How could I have thought I was BIG in comparison to where I am at now. I really think that mindset changed how I dealt with my weight after getting married. I think I felt, what was the point - I will always be big and I might as well enjoy the ride.
But starting in 2003 I started to get the side effects of being overweight. High Blood Pressure, High Cholsterol, Shortness of Breath, Difficulty sleeping, Swollen Joints, Lack of Energy blah, blah, blah. And what really jolted me was when my Doctor said that I would never have children the "traditional" way until I lose the weight among many things.
Of course after being with her for over 4 years, I made the move to change doctors that were closer to my home & for the FIRST time this doctor suggested the LAP BAND procedure. I didnt know much about it but I knew my dear friend Talya took the plunge and never looked back. I had the opportunity to get it done with her but I listened to my husband and HIS fears to dictate my choice.
In 2005 after some major psychological issues, I made the decision to get the gastric bypass surgery. After much research, research, research - I had made the choice of a doctor & all of that which goes with it. My grandfather agreed to pay the difference that the insurance company wouldnt cover & I had to wait out the 6 month cycle of anxiety before they (BlueCross/Blue Shield of Illinois).
On my way to the promise land several DEVASTATING events occurred - my marriage separation in October of 2006, my Grandfather (who was my ONLY father figure in life) dying in May of 2007 and the joy of getting pregnant June 2007. SOOOOOOO I placed my plan on hold for the sake of the baby and eight months later after my beautiful little girl Kaitlyn's birth - I am on that quest again.
