My Loooong Story - ThinnerTimes

snark · 04-16-2008, 02:26 AM

Hi, My name is Whitney and I'm actually new here, so I don't even know how to start this whole thing.

My adventure, as I would like to call it, was kicked off when I was 17 when my oldest sister had the surgery done. At the time, I did not think that much of it, but as time went on I watched how her life was changing, how she was becoming this new healthier, happier person. To this day, she is not only my inspiration, but my biggest fan.

The hardest part of the whole thing for me, being my age (18/19 during this all) is that I have to rely on my family. The hardest thing I have done in a long time was to tell them that I was thinking about having it. My mother was happy, my sister was annoyed, and my dad was upset. He did what most people in his position do, ask me to try "one more diet" or "some more exercise". There really was no path I felt I haven't traveled, or at least the safe ones.

I ended up going with my mother and sister to the first meeting. Mine was October 25th, 2007. From this day on, I knew there was not much that could hold me back. I was destined to change my life before it was too late. Little did I know all the obstacles that would be thrown in my way. The scariest part of pre-op was my sleep test. I've never been so scared, which now that I look back I shouldn't have been. It was so weird having so many wires.

On March 18th, 2008 I was given clearance by my insurance company. I ended up missing the phone call, and my mother received it on her cell phone. The minute I heard, I had to call them to set up my surgery date. Little did I know they would put me in 10 days later, on the 28th! I was excited, anxious, and nervous all at once. It was one of the best feelings I've ever had.

The only thing that tops that feeling to this day is standing on that scale, seeing the numbers going down, seeing myself become a happier, healthier me. I am one of the youngest people I know who have had the surgery, and I hope that if there are any other young people on this forum debating, it is totally possible, just make sure you are ready!

Mia · 04-16-2008, 06:10 AM

Welcome to the forum!!!

You made a good decision for yourself! You will have all the rest of your life to enjoy your new body!!!

I am looking forward to getting to know you!

snark · 04-16-2008, 01:52 PM

Thanks! I've been reading this off and on whenever I'm online for school, and for some reason I feel like this is the place to be if you need anyone to talk to.

BrightySLC · 04-17-2008, 02:39 PM

Hey there! I got my surgery just 4 days before you. Im also rather young for this surgery. Im 23. I agree its so nice seeing the scale drop altough i am weighing myself way too often. so i have my hubby hide the scale

Vim&Vigour · 04-18-2008, 03:09 AM

Welcome Snark!
Whit, really great that you have followed the path you have seen fit for yourself! Congratulations and warmest wishes for a bright "new" future" (I could be your mum!). What a significant drop in weight already!
I'm sure you'll cherish the changes in relationships with your sister - remind her she'll "always" be your "leader", "shining star" - as long as you don't "threaten" her achievements, leave her on a slightly higher pedestal and your relationship will remain great.
I'm sure your Father's sadness will turn to pride - two beautiful, young, healthy and smart daughters! Talk about a thrilled parent!
Way to go girl!
Cheers,
Vim

MsSarahJ · 04-22-2008, 12:21 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by snark

Hi, My name is Whitney and I'm actually new here, so I don't even know how to start this whole thing.

My adventure, as I would like to call it, was kicked off when I was 17 when my oldest sister had the surgery done. At the time, I did not think that much of it, but as time went on I watched how her life was changing, how she was becoming this new healthier, happier person. To this day, she is not only my inspiration, but my biggest fan.

The hardest part of the whole thing for me, being my age (18/19 during this all) is that I have to rely on my family. The hardest thing I have done in a long time was to tell them that I was thinking about having it. My mother was happy, my sister was annoyed, and my dad was upset. He did what most people in his position do, ask me to try "one more diet" or "some more exercise". There really was no path I felt I haven't traveled, or at least the safe ones.

I ended up going with my mother and sister to the first meeting. Mine was October 25th, 2007. From this day on, I knew there was not much that could hold me back. I was destined to change my life before it was too late. Little did I know all the obstacles that would be thrown in my way. The scariest part of pre-op was my sleep test. I've never been so scared, which now that I look back I shouldn't have been. It was so weird having so many wires.

On March 18th, 2008 I was given clearance by my insurance company. I ended up missing the phone call, and my mother received it on her cell phone. The minute I heard, I had to call them to set up my surgery date. Little did I know they would put me in 10 days later, on the 28th! I was excited, anxious, and nervous all at once. It was one of the best feelings I've ever had.

The only thing that tops that feeling to this day is standing on that scale, seeing the numbers going down, seeing myself become a happier, healthier me. I am one of the youngest people I know who have had the surgery, and I hope that if there are any other young people on this forum debating, it is totally possible, just make sure you are ready!

I know what you mean Ive thought about the lap band since I was 15 and first heard of it, eventually that dream faded away until january this year when I saw a doctor who told me that I need it, nothing to do with my weight at the moment but it would involve my weight later on in life if you know what I mean? And you think your young? You should check out some other websites, another one I'm on lapbandtalk has some that had it around 14-15-16 which I personally think is ridiculous

Godsblessedme · 04-22-2008, 07:34 AM

welcome to the TT Whitney. Its a great place for information adn friends

aThinnerMe · 04-22-2008, 07:42 AM

i wish they had this surgery back when i was young, like you. how wonderful that you have many many years to enjoy your weight loss !

Tonystark04 · 04-22-2008, 08:20 AM

Welcome to TT! I just had my sleep studay last night , and it did feel weird with all the wires all over my head. So I know how u felt.

WAITING80 · 04-22-2008, 08:28 AM

Welcome to TT Whitney. I had my surgery on April 15,2008. I am 27 years old and I believe that this was the best decision for me and also for you. I'm still in pain but getting through it and having TT to turn to makes it so much easier.