I did not tell anyone except my close family and a couple close friends. I did not want to explain myself to anyone. It was a decision that I spent 5 years making for my own personal health reasons...I wasn't going to let anyone change my mind, scare me, and make me doubt myself. I only told those who would support me and respect my decision without feeling the need to force their opinion on me. I never once posted anything on Facebook, and still haven't other than new photos of myself, which people notice the difference. If they ask, I private message them. It's my story to tell, and everyone who knew respected that and didn't share my story. I will never ever deny having the surgery, but at 5 months post-op today and 84 lbs. lost to date, I do feel the need to sometimes explain that I didn't take the easy way out...some people think that when you tell them you had the surgery. I bust my butt every day...my new lifestyle consumes every minute of my day, what I eat, how I eat, how much I eat, how much I exercise, did I take my vitamins, did I track my food, etc. etc. etc. I am proud of my decision and my commitment to becoming healthy. I am not going to let anyone cast a shadow on how much I have accomplished. Make sure you don't either!

LOL - RillaVanilla - sounds like you're better off without them.

jennifertrimblemartinez wrote: »

I never hid the fact that I was having wls. The support that I have received before and after has made all the difference. I am 4.5 months post op and down 102 lbs. If anyone ha any negative reactions to my doing this, they were never expressed to me. But if they were I would not have paid any attention because I did this for myself. To be healthier, more active and to live a long time to see my baby grow up. But I think for me being open about it has helped me accept all the changes that needed to be made and has helped me be more accountable for myself.

I agree 100%
there probably will be comments that you won't like, but just remember they aren't living your life you are. I don't judge people for losing weight how they chose to, well not usually so whatever their opinion is its thiers. Carry ON!

This journey is so intensely personal. The important thing is that you do what you are comfortable with. I have made no effort to hide it but I haven't broadcast it either! I have told my friends, some colleagues and close family. I have been blessed with a having a great support group as a result. Very few negative responses, but I can honestly say I don't really care about those!! LOL Not everyone understands where I've been and where Im going and that's OK. Recently I was shopping for yogurt and as they were restocking the cooler, the lady asked what specifically I was looking for. When I told her she offered an alternative as they were out of what I wanted. When I told her no thanks, too many carbs, she asked if I was following Weight Watchers or something similar. Out of my mouth popped "Oh no Im a bariatric patient" before my brain even registered the question!! She responded Good for you! How are you doing? She went on to ask where I had it done and if I was happy with the facility etc. Never thought I'd be having that conversation with a stranger in the dairy section!
As for people being worried or concerned, I had done enough research and had gotten 2nd opinions from my Cardiologist, Neuro Surgeon, General Surgeon and my friend who is an Interventional Radiologist. I left no stone unturned and that alleviated the concerns of those who were worried!
The bigger your support group the better!

Good luck in your journey!!

I have only select people. I have trust issues and I am that person that will second guess myself if anyone says anything negative. I will be glad to talk to anyone after the fact, but for now I prefer to just tell those few that "need" to know, and some of the more trustworthy folk (friends).

I wish we cold like posts on here, because I would like your post ac7nj!