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

I always felt like I was heavier than anyone else my age all through elementary and high school. I was heavier, but I was not fat. So I went on every diet, I tried everything - you name it, I tried it and each time, I lost weight - 10-15 lbs, then when I couldn't starve myself anymore, I gained that 10-15 lbs back and the regained an additional 10 lbs. Once I dieted my way to 215 lbs I realized I was in big trouble and it wasn't going to get any better and if my family was any indication, I was destined for heart disease, obesity, and cancer - I was made to eat and work in the fields all day, not sit at a desk or 9 hours everyday.

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

I hurt a lot, especially when I try to walk. My feet have been a real problem - I have a lot of pain and have had surgery. Then I was unable to walk, exercise, then I gained an additional 10 lbs. I went to an amusement park and had problems getting around and the roller coasters were a challenge to get into and out of.

If you have had weight loss surgery already, what things do you most enjoy doing now that you weren't able to do before?

My lap-band surgery didn't really help me lose weight, just maintain mostly. But I hope to lose some substantial weight with RNY and get that second chance to re-set my metabolism, become more active, snorkel again, walk without pain, do a 5K and do so many things that are just to painful to do right now.